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September 2007
Two new commits for Georgia Tech
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Georgia Tech picked up commitments on Sunday from Brandon Leslie, a safety from Edison High in Fresno, Calif., and linebacker Malcolm Munroe of Coral Reef High in Miami.
Leslie and Munroe were among a group of recruits in attendance at Bobby Dodd Stadium on Saturday during Tech’s victory over Clemson.
Slaughter still firm with Notre Dame
Notre Dame is off to the worst start in school history at 0-5. But Tucker’s Jamoris Slaughter says he’s not wavering on this summer’s decision to commit to the Irish.
“[Notre Dame coaches] told me at the beginning of the season that they have a young team and this year was going to be one of the years where they don’t have a lot of experience,” Slaughter said.
“I just see this an opportunity for me to go there [next season] and help. A lot of people say ‘you still want to go to Notre Dame?’
“Just because they’re having a bad year, it really doesn’t affect me.”
Slaughter still holds scholarship offers from Georgia and Georgia Tech.
“I like Georgia, but I really decided I wanted to get out of the state for some reason,” he said.
“I haven’t been a Notre Dame fan all my life. I liked Michigan growing up, but I thought Notre Dame would be the best school for me education wise.”
Dennard down to Alabama and Clemson
Alphonzo Dennard of Wilcox County, ranked No. 1 in Class A, said Sunday night he has narrowed his choices to Alabama and Clemson.
“I’m not close to committing,” said Dennard, who is being recruited as a receiver. “I’ll wait until after the season.”
Dennard, whose twin brother Lorenzo Dennard is Wilcox’s starting quarterback, said the coaches at Alabama and Clemson appeal to him.
“I really like the coaching staff at Alabama, especially [head coach] Nick Saban,” he said. “And I’m a big fan of Clemson coach Tommy Bowden. I’ve had a chance to talk to him and I think he’s a good coach.”
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Georgia-bound Jackson still looking; Commings down to three
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Georgia-bound Griffin defensive end Toby Jackson said he intends to continue making rounds throughout the ACC and SEC this fall.
“I still want to go to games at Tennessee, Florida State, Clemson, Auburn, Alabama and Georgia,” said Jackson, who attended Georgia’s victory over Oklahoma State and Mississippi State’s upset win over Auburn earlier this month.
After implying that his commitment with Georgia is solid, Jackson went on to say he his intrigued by Alabama.
“I like Alabama a lot,” Jackson said. “Some of the things Georgia has, Alabama also has like the atmosphere, coaches and environment.
“And [Alabama coach] Nick Saban will recruit a lot of guys like myself and be deep.”
Jackson said the Bulldog Nation shouldn’t fret over his desire to visit as many programs as possible prior to national signing day in February.
“They have nothing to worry about, right now,” he said.
Westside’s Commings names three
Westside, Augusta receiver/defensive back Sanders Commings has narrowed the list of schools he is considering to three.
“It’s either going to be Georgia, South Carolina or Georgia Tech,” said Commings, who has eliminated Florida and Maryland from consideration.
Commings, who has received permission from each program to play both football and baseball, said the three schools are neck and neck.
“They’re all pretty even right now,” he said.
Commings remains open on playing offense or defense.
“Receiver or defensive back is fine,” he said. “It really doesn’t matter to me.”
Uzzi to attend Tech-Clemson game
Chamblee offensive lineman Omoregie Uzzi continues to consider scholarship offers from programs such as Alabama, Auburn, Central Florida, Georgia, Georgia Tech and Virginia.
The 6-foot-3, 290-pound Uzzi was a guest of the Crimson Tide during Alabama’s overtime loss to Georgia on Saturday.
“It was nice,” said Uzzi, who plans to be at Bobby Dodd Stadium on Saturday when Tech hosts Clemson. “It turned out to be a fun game.”
Uzzi had an opportunity to meet Saban prior to last weekend’s contest.
“He’s a real serious guy,” Uzzi said.
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Jackson eliminates Penn State; Southern Cal offers Hunter
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Heard County running back Dontavius Jackson continues to mend after suffering a broken wrist during the Braves’ season opener earlier this month.
“It’s healing real good,” Jackson said Wednesday evening.
Jackson, who expects his wrist to be healed by mid-December, is staying on a workout regimen.
“Basically, I do a lot of leg workouts,” he said. “We have a bike at our school, and I ride it a lot.”
Jackson confirmed that Penn State has been eliminated from the short list of colleges he has under consideration.
“I’m still considering LSU, Alabama, Georgia and Clemson,” he said.
Jackson is scheduled to be at Sanford Stadium on Saturday when Georgia hosts Ole Miss.
He’ll travel to Baton Rouge on Oct. 6.
“And I’ve got to set up a visit with Alabama,” said Jackson, who intends to commit in late October. “I’m going to Clemson on Oct. 20 when they play Central Michigan.
“I set that visit up for a reason. I have a cousin that plays for Central Michigan.”
Notre Dame-bound Hunter offered by the USC Trojans
When Pete Carroll talks, recruits listen. Even ones already committed to Notre Dame.
Buford’s Omar Hunter visited with Carroll over the phone Tuesday and received an offer from the coach of top-ranked Southern Cal.
“It was pretty exciting. Southern Cal, that’s pretty big,” said Hunter, who verbally committed to Notre Dame in June.
That doesn’t mean the blue-chip defensive tackle has changed his mind about heading to South Bend.
“I’m sticking with Notre Dame for right now,” Hunter said.
Buford coach Jess Simpson said several schools, including Florida, Tennessee and Auburn, still contact Hunter, who is ranked as the sixth best defensive tackle in the nation by Rivals.com and the No. 78 prospect overall.
The 6-0, 300-pound Hunter, who can dunk a basketball, leads No. 1 Buford with 19 quarterback pressures and three forced fumbles.
Walton’s Thomas visits Stanford
Walton defensive end Chase Thomas visited Stanford on Saturday.
“The trip was good, it was real fun,” said Thomas, who has narrowed the list of schools he is considering to Auburn, Georgia Tech, LSU and Stanford.
“The campus at Stanford was amazing. All the facilities were top notch.”
Thomas, who plans hopes to attend Georgia Tech’s home game against Clemson on Saturday, said there is a noticeable difference between the SEC and the PAC 10’s Stanford.
“The SEC is all about football,” he said. “It’s a crazy atmosphere and there’s always a packed house.
“At Stanford, it wasn’t as intense. And the fan base is growing. They believe in the new coaching staff they have in place.”
Calhoun’s Urbano still considering Troy
Calhoun running back Adam Urbano has scholarship offers from Georgia Southern and Troy and is being heavily recruited by UAB and Western Kentucky.
“I’m still looking,” Urbano said Wednesday evening. “I was going to commit to Troy, but I might possibly have to grayshirt there. I’ll know in December.”
According to Urbano, if he is grayshirted he would have to wait until Jan. 2009 to enroll at Troy.
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Sabino remains interested in Tech; Heels and Pack like Adetona
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Linebacker Etienne Sabino of Dr. Michael M. Krop High in Miami has narrowed the list of schools he is considering to Florida, Georgia Tech, Miami, North Carolina, Ohio State and Southern Cal.
Sabino said Tech’s current two-game losing skid has done little to dampen his enthusiasm for the Jackets.
“You want to go to a winning program, but everybody is going to have an off day,” Sabino said. “You can’t judge a team by one or two games.”
Sabino, who visited Southern Cal earlier this month and will attempt to attend a Tech game at Bobby Dodd Stadium this fall, witnessed Florida’s recent victory over Tennessee.
“It was good,” Sabino said of the visit to Gainesville. “But all game day experiences are good. I enjoyed the trip.”
Tar Heels and Wolf Pack interested in Gainesville receiver
Gainesville receiver Tyler Adetona is being heavily recruited by a pair of ACC programs.
Adetona, who has scholarship offers from schools such as Ball State, Georgia Southern, Indiana, Marshall, Middle Tennessee State and Troy, is receiving interest from North Carolina and N.C. State.
“North Carolina said they were only going to take one receiver,” said the 6-foot-2, 203-pound Adetona, who is averaging well over 100 yards per game in receptions this season for the Red Elephants. “Now, they’re talking about taking two receivers.
“I went to camp there this summer and worked hard. I feel like I have all the key ingredients they’re looking for.
“I went to camp there and worked at the corner position. They just like my ability to play many positions.”
Adetona sees a good fit for himself at North Carolina or N.C. State.
“I really want to get to N.C. State and visit,” he said. “But I know North Carolina is appealing. I like the area up there around Chapel Hill. It’s calm and quiet and reminds me of home.”
Mays’ Heard down to Tech, Kentucky and North Carolina
Corey Heard, a receiver for Mays, continues to show interest in Georgia Tech, Kentucky and North Carolina.
Heard, who plans to travel to Lexington later this season when the Wildcats host LSU, said he’s prepared to play college football outside of Atlanta.
“I’d love to get away,” he said. “It’d be nice to stay home. But I’d like to experience living somewhere else.”
Heard said he will likely attend Tech’s home contest against Clemson on Saturday.
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Fortson commits to Auburn; Update on Tucker’s Lipscomb
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Carver, Columbus receiver Jarmon Fortson has committed to Auburn.
“I think it’s a good fit,” said Carver coach Dell McGee. “The main thing is it’s an opportunity for him to get an education at a good institution.”
Carver quarterback DeRon Furr committed to the Tigers in June.
McGee believes the two commitments to an SEC power will be a positive influence to the underclassmen in his program.
“Absolutely,” he said. “I think this really speaks for our whole city. It’s a big motivation for our kids to succeed in the classroom and on the field to, hopefully, earn a scholarship.”
Major offers for Tucker’s Lipscomb
Tucker receiver/cornerback Neiko Lipscomb (6-foot-2, 170-pounds) has scholarship offers from Alabama, Auburn, Georgia, Mississippi State, Oklahoma, Ole Miss and South Carolina.
“He’s playing very well overall for us,” Tucker coach Franklin Stephens said. “We really haven’t used him a lot on offense, but he’s playing very well defensively.”
Painter still considering UGA
Vinston Painter, a 6-foot-5, 309-pound guard for Maury (Va.) High, continues to sit at home on Saturdays and evaluate scholarship offers from Florida, Georgia, Miami, Penn State and Virginia Tech from his living room.
“I’m still looking at scheduling some visits, but I don’t have anything set up yet,” said Painter, who is rated the seventh best guard in the nation by Scout.com. “Right now, I just watch the games and see how they play.”
Tech offers Lovejoy junior tackle
Georgia Tech has extended a scholarship offer to Lovejoy junior offensive left tackle Andre Harris. The 6-foot-4, 335-pound Harris hopes to become another Lovejoy lineman who enjoys success at the Division I level.
“We’ve been very fortunate over the past six years,” Lovejoy coach Al Hughes said. “We’ve got 65 kids who have signed to play college football, including two linemen at Tennessee, one at Auburn and one at Kansas State. They’ve seen all of these guys come out of this program and Andre’s one of the better ones.”
Hughes said Tech isn’t the only program interested in Harris.
“My mailbox is flooded with stuff for him everyday,” he said.
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Massie sets December UGA visit; Salmon still likes S. Carolina
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Bobbie Massie of Lynchburg (Va.) Christian Academy, rated the 13th-best defensive tackle in the nation by Scout.com, plans to visit Georgia in mid-December.
“My football schedule just won’t allow me to make it to Athens during the season,” said Massie, who is trying to schedule in-season visits to Clemson, Tennessee and Virginia Tech.
Massie visited the Classic City during the summer. He felt at home.
“The campus was real nice,” the 6-foot-7, 330-pound Massie said. “It’s beautiful down there. It looks like it does up here. I feel comfortable at Georgia.”
Stockbridge’s Salmon still favoring South Carolina
South Carolina continues to be the front-runner to score a commitment from Stockbridge defensive tackle Randy Salmon.
“That’s the goal right now,” said Salmon, when asked about his interest in a potential commitment to the Gamecocks. “Anything can happen, but that’s where I’d really like to go. But my options are open in case anything comes up.”
Salmon had hoped to receive a scholarship offer from defending national Florida.
“Really, I’m not waiting on them anymore,” said Salmon, who is also considering N.C. State and Southern Miss. “They said they wanted to wait until after my second game to decide.
“We’re up to game four now. I don’t know what’s going on with them.”
Habersham Central’s Anderson getting looks
Habersham Central receiver/cornerback Josh Anderson is being heavily recruited by several Ivy League schools and a pair of programs in South Carolina.
“He’s a good player with legitimate 4.55 speed,” Habersham Central coach Gene Cathcart said of the 5-foot-10, 180-pound Anderson. “He ran that at Furman’s camp this summer.”
“A lot of Ivy League programs are recruiting him. And schools like Furman and Wofford are interested in him.”
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Harris to visit Tuscaloosa; Avery still favoring UGA
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Jerrell Harris of Gadsden (Ala.) City High, considered the second-best weakside linebacker in the nation by Scout.com, will be in attendance on Saturday when Alabama hosts Georgia.
The 6-foot-3, 215-pound Harris is expected to choose between Alabama, Auburn, Clemson, Florida, Florida State, Georgia and Southern Cal.
“Georgia is one of the teams I’m looking at,” Harris said Wednesday evening. “I know they’ve got a good program that’s up-and-coming and they’re trying to make things happen.”
Harris wouldn’t budge when asked if he is leaning toward one or more schools.
“I don’t have a favorite,” he said. “I’m just concentrating on my season right now.”
More visits on tap for Avery
Cedar Grove running back Xavier Avery is tentatively scheduled to visit Stanford on Oct. 6.
A two-sport athlete who hopes to play football and baseball in college, Avery’s previous visits have been limited to Georgia and Georgia Tech.
“We just want him to make some more visits,” Avery’s father, Theophilus Griffin Jr., said. “He said he’d like to visit LSU, Alabama, Stanford and, possibly, Florida.”
Griffin said most colleges have given Avery, who may be a high draft pick in next summer’s major league baseball draft, approval to play two sports.
At least one school appears more interested in Avery for his ability to play baseball.
“LSU is recruiting him heavily in baseball,” Griffin said.
Griffin confirmed that Georgia is still his son’s front-runner.
“He favors Georgia, but he just hasn’t visited everybody,” Griffin said.
Waller closing in on decision
Southwest DeKalb cornberback/receiver Manley Waller expects to announce a commitment by early October.
“I will make a decision within the next two to three weeks,” Waller said.
Waller, who currently has scholarship offers from Akron, Bowling Green, Central Michigan, Ohio and UAB, is waiting to see if one or more Division I offers arrive.
“There’s me and two or three other guys fighting for a [scholarship] at corner with Indiana,” said Waller, who is scheduled to visit Vanderbilt on Sept. 29. “And I’m waiting for feedback from Wake Forest.
“Akron has shown a lot of interest. The way it’s looking, if a major Division I school offers, it’d be hard not to go to that school. If those schools don’t come through, I will commit to Akron.”
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Glenn still considering UGA; Reeeve close to naming five
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Riverdale tackle Cordy Glenn said Tuesday night he is considering Alabama, Florida, Georgia, LSU and South Carolina.
The 6-foot-5, 310-pound Glenn, who had anticipated a commitment earlier this month, will now wait until later in the year.
“I just didn’t want to commit and change my mind,” Glenn said. “I just want to be sure I make the right decision.”
Glenn visited Georgia earlier this season.
“But I don’t have anything other visits scheduled right now,” he said.
SEC powers court Stone Mountain’s Reeves
Stone Mountain receiver Charles Reeves Jr. enjoyed a trip to Auburn just over a week ago when the Tigers hosted South Florida.
“He really likes Auburn, but he’s still considering Tennessee, Florida and Ole Miss,” Reeves’ father, Stone Mountain coach Charles Reeves Sr., said. “And now, North Carolina is kind of coming into the picture.”
Jarboe to set visit
Florida, LSU, Oklahoma, and Tennessee continue to be the front-runners to score a commitment from Cedar Grove receiver Josh Jarboe.
He is expected to visit LSU or Oklahoma on Oct. 6, a bye weekend for the Cedar Grove Saints.
Dennard leaning toward Clemson
Wilcox County cornerback Alphonzo Dennard, who recently picked up a scholarship offer from Georgia Southern, is leaning toward Clemson.
“Clemson has a good football team and coaching staff,” Dennard said.
Dennard is considering a visit to Bobby Dodd Stadium on Sept. 29 when Georgia Tech hosts the Tigers.
“I may go to that one on my own,” he said.
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Harrison’s Adams to visit Auburn; Tech gains no ground on Uzzi
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Auburn-bound receiver Darvin Adams of Harrison plans to attend Auburn’s home game against New Mexico State on Saturday.
“I’m just going to watch the game, talk to the coaches and see what all they do during the pregame,” Adams said.
Uzzi attends Tech’s loss to Boston College
Chamblee guard Omoregie Uzzi, who is considering scholarship offers from programs such as Alabama, Central Florida, Georgia, Georgia Tech and Virginia, witnessed Tech’s loss to Boston College in person.
Uzzi said Tech didn’t gain or lose any ground in relation to his recruitment.
“It’s all about the same as before,” he said.
Commings meets South Carolina coaches
Westside Augusta receiver/defensive back Sanders Commings attended South Carolina’s victory over South Carolina State on Saturday at Williams-Brice Stadium in Columbia.
“I enjoyed it,” Commings said. “I met all of the South Carolina players from Georgia and all of the coaches.”
Former Georgia commit Martin Ward favors South Carolina
Mt. Zion, Jonesboro running back Martin Ward, who backed off a commitment to Georgia earlier this year, has South Carolina slightly ahead of Clemson, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, Ole Miss and Purdue.
Bolton headed to Tuscaloosa on Saturday
Norcross receiver Devonta Bolton, who committed to Alabama this summer, will attend the Tide’s home game against Georgia.
Bolton said he’s not surprised to see Alabama 3-0 under first-year coach Nick Saban.
“Everybody else was doubting him and saying he’d have a struggle,” Bolton said. “But he’s very positive and he pushes the team.”
Clemson-bound Richt to visit the Tigers
Prince Avenue Christian quarterback Jon Richt plans to attend Clemson’s Oct. 6 home contest against Virginia Tech. The 6-foot-2, 190-pound Richt, who has committed to Clemson, is the son of Georgia coach Mark Richt.
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Stuckey strikes Tech off his list; Jackson still looking
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Dewitt Stuckey, a 6-foot-2, 215-linebacker for Lincoln High in Stockton, Calif. who has a soft verbal commitment with Oregon, had been considering Georgia Tech until late last week.
Stuckey, rated the 13th-best weakside linebacker in the nation by Scout.com, had hoped to be in Atlanta for Tech’s ACC opener against Boston College on Saturday.
“My schedule was fine,” Stuckey said. “[Tech] just didn’t set up my visit.
“I guess they really didn’t want me to come there. That’s why I’m not considering Georgia Tech anymore.”
Jackson to visit Alabama
Georgia-bound Griffin defensive end Toby Jackson continues his SEC shopping spree.
The 6-foot-4, 240-pound Jackson was on hand for Auburn’s stunning home loss to Mississippi State on Saturday.
He plans to be in Tuscaloosa this weekend when Alabama hosts Georgia.
Jackson believes the mental aspect of the game played a major role in Mississippi State’s 19-14 victory over Auburn.
“I think it was just that Mississippi State came out really wanting to play,” he said.
As for his decision to visit many of Georgia’s rivals, Jackson, who will be a guest of Alabama on Saturday, said it’s all a matter of due diligence.
“I’m still committed to Georgia,” Jackson said. “But I’ll still leave all the doors open.
“Some ask what it will take for me to decommit to Georgia? It will take somebody to show me something that Georgia has showed me yet.”
Thomas to view PAC 10 contest
Walton outside linebacker Chase Thomas is scheduled to travel to Stanford this weekend for the Cardinal’s home game against Oregon.
The 6-foot-4, 210-pound Thomas has narrowed his college choices to Auburn, Georgia Tech, LSU and Stanford.
Thomas attended Tech’s loss to Boston College on Saturday at Bobby Dodd Stadium.
“I went to the game with my friends,” Thomas said. “It wasn’t an official visit.”
Thomas said the Jackets didn’t loose any ground with him following the 14-point defeat.
“No, it didn’t impact my recruitment,” he said.
Thomas was, however, shocked to see BC hold Tech running back Tashard Choice to 15 yards and hold the Jackets scoreless for three quarters.
“I was surprised,” Thomas said.
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Tech in the running for Reamon; Simmons ponders Florida visit
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Quarterback Tommy Reamon Jr. (6-1, 198-pounds) of Gloucester, Va. is considering scholarship offers from Buffalo, East Carolina, Georgia Tech, Missouri, Northern Illinois and Old Dominion.
“Georgia Tech is still on my list,” said Reamon, who visited Tech as a junior during the spring of 2006. “It’s a good environment, with it being in the city of Atlanta.
“And they have a great coaching staff. I got to talk to a lot of the players when I visited. Georgia Tech has a lot of good things going for it.”
Simmons may visit the Gators
Banneker safety Darrell Simmons continues to lean toward a commitment to Miami.
But the 6-foot-1, 201-pound Simmons is contemplating a visit to defending national champion Florida.
Simmons, who made the trek to Gainesville during his junior season, is a big fan of Florida coach Urban Meyer.
“He’s just a great coach,” said Simmons, who has offers from programs such as Alabama, Florida, Miami, Michigan, Ohio State and Tennessee. “He’s very enthusiastic.”
Simmons said he’s not down on the Canes following their blowout loss to Oklahoma last weekend.
“You can’t win every game,” he said. “Maybe I can go down there and help them.”
Heard County’s Jackson continues recovery
Heard County running back Dontavius Jackson continues to recover from a season-ending injury suffered in the Braves’ season opener two weeks ago.
Jackson, who rushed for 246 yards and three touchdowns on 12 carries before breaking his wrist with two minutes remaining in the first half, is expected to heal by early December.
“The doctors say he’s going to be fine,” Heard County coach Tim Barron said. “It’s probably a three month recovery period for Dontavius.”
Jackson still intends to choose between Alabama, Clemson, Georgia, LSU and Penn State in October.
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Tech among Page’s favorites; Thompson visits LSU
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Kenneth Page of A.C. Flora High in Columbia, S.C., rated the nation’s 11th-best guard prospect by Scout.com, is considering scholarship offers from Alabama, Clemson, Florida, Georgia Tech, Maryland, North Carolina, Notre Dame, South Carolina, Stanford and Tennessee.
“They’re all pretty much even right now,” the 6-foot-4, 290-pound Page said, when asked to declare a front-runner.
Page, who will be at Williams-Brice Stadium in Columbia on Saturday when South Carolina hosts South Carolina State, attended the Gamecocks and Clemson’s season openers earlier this month.
“Clemson’s atmosphere was a lot louder,” he said. “But look at who they were playing against [Florida State]. It was the Bowden bowl.”
Page said he is fond of Tech.
“I like their location there in Atlanta,” he said. “And they’ve got a great football program.”
Thompson takes in LSU
Thomasville defensive tackle Brandon Thompson enjoyed the sights and sounds of LSU’s blowout victory over Virginia Tech on Saturday in Baton Rouge.
“I really liked the atmosphere of their stadium,” Thompson said. “It was really amazing.
“I got to talk to a couple of the coaches before the game. I like the school.”
Thompson, who is scheduled to be at Bobby Dodd Stadium when Tech hosts Clemson on Sept. 29, will be a guest of South Carolina on Saturday when the Gamecocks entertain South Carolina State.
“I really don’t know what to expect at South Carolina,” he said. “I just want to go over there and have a good time.”
With offers from Clemson and Tech in his recruiting portfolio, Thompson is especially eager for the ACC showdown in downtown Atlanta later this month.
“I think Georgia Tech has a great team with a potent offense,” Thompson said.
Riverdale’s Glenn still searching
After narrowing his choices to Alabama, Georgia, LSU and South Carolina in August, Riverdale tackle Cordy Glenn anticipated an early September commitment.
But the 6-foot-5, 310-pound Glenn appears weeks away from choosing a college.
“There’s really nothing new,” he said. “I’m still looking.”
Glenn, who is still working to set up Saturday visits, said he wasn’t shocked by South Carolina’s road victory over Georgia last weekend.
“I really wasn’t surprised,” he said. “South Carolina has a good team. It was just a tough ballgame.”
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Massie at home in Athens; Liuget still considering Tech and UGA
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Bobby Massie, a 6-foot-6, 315-pound defensive tackle for Lynchburg (Va.) Christian Academy, said Tuesday night he’s considering scholarship offers from Clemson, Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia Tech.
The mammoth lineman visited Athens earlier this summer.
“The campus was real nice,” he said. “It looked like home.”
Massie gave plenty of reasons to put the Bulldogs in his top five.
“Georgia has got a good program,” he said. “A lot of their players have gone to the NFL.
“And coach [Mark] Richt has done a lot with the program by winning. He’s one of the winningest coaches in college football over the past six years.”
Liuget continues to weigh multiple offers
Hialeah (Fla.) defensive end Corey Liuget continues to evaluate scholarship offers from programs such as Central Florida, Florida State, Georgia, Georgia Tech, Illinois, LSU, Miami and South Florida.
Liuget, who plans to attends Central Florida’s home game against Texas on Saturday, said watching Georgia lose to South Carolina last weekend did little to dampen his enthusiasm over the Bulldogs.
“It impacts it some, but not too much,” he said. “I just want to go where I feel comfortable and have great people around me.”
Liuget did predict a Saturday visit to the Peach State this fall, but it likely won’t be to Athens.
“I will catch a Georgia Tech game this year,” Liuget said.
South Forsyth’s Smith visits Rocky Top
South Forsyth outside linebacker Tyler Smith was a guest of Tennessee on Saturday during the Volunteers’ victory over Southern Miss.
“It was a pretty good experience,” the 6-foot-3, 205-pound Smith said. “We went through the weight room, locker room, then went out onto the field during pregame.
“Just watching it on TV, the stadium looks big. But once you’re on the field, it all seems twice as big and, really, bigger than you can imagine.”
Smith, who is also being recruited by Princeton and Southern Miss, is still hoping Tennessee will send him a scholarship offer.
“It hasn’t happened yet,” he said. “I don’t know if they will [offer]. I’ve been getting a few letters from them.”
The offers have been slow to materialize for Smith, thanks in part to an injury during his junior season.
“I didn’t play my junior year due to a torn ACL,” Smith said. “Most schools want film from my first two games. I’ll wait one more game and send those out to colleges.”
Liberty grabs commitments from Kell teammates
Kell quarterback Nick Hicks has committed to Liberty, and he is taking his favorite offensive lineman with him.
Hicks (6-1, 200) and his Kell teammate, guard Stan Herring (6-5, 295), have both revealed that they intend to sign with Liberty.
“I don’t know if it was a package deal, but it definitely made my decision a lot easier knowing that my friend and teammate will be there with me,” Hicks said.
Hicks picked Liberty over offers from Air Force, Buffalo, and Newberry. He was also generating interest from Furman, Southern Miss, and Middle Tennessee State.
“They made me feel special throughout the entire recruiting process,” Hicks said. “When I went to Liberty game [last Saturday], I just felt like it was the right thing to do.”
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Uzzi to visit Tech; Route drops in on Georgia Southern
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Chamblee guard Omoregie Uzzi enjoyed his time in Athens on Saturday, despite Georgia’s narrow loss to South Carolina.
“I liked it,” said Uzzi, who has offers from programs such as Alabama, Auburn, Central Florida, Georgia, Georgia Tech and Virgina.
Uzzi plans to attend Tech’s ACC opener against Boston College on Saturday at Bobby Dodd Stadium.
Georgia Southern offer looming for Route
Stephenson defensive back Destin Route expects to receive an offer from Georgia Southern early next week. He attended the Eagles’ victory over West Georgia on Saturday in Statesboro.
“It was a real school-spirit atmosphere,” Route said. “And the coaches treated us real good. It all made me put them into my top five.”
Route is also being recruited by Central Florida, Memphis, Texas Southern and Utah.
Shakoor to visit Auburn
Stephenson’s Ahmed Shakoor plans to be in Auburn on Saturday when the Tigers host Mississippi State.
“I’m pretty interested in Auburn,” the 5-foot-11, 190-pound cornerback said. “I went to a camp there this summer. Their interest level in me got high after the camp.”
Powerhouse programs continue to court Riverdale’s Glenn
Alabama, Georgia, Louisville, LSU, Maryland and South Carolina are among the schools still hoping to land a commitment from 6-foot-6, 310-pound Riverdale lineman Cordy Glenn.
Hoosiers offer Douglas County’s Robinson
Douglas County running back Carl Robinson has an offer from Indiana. The 5-foot-11, 220-pound back, who hopes to attend Alabama’s home game against Arkansas on Saturday, is being recruited by the Tide, Clemson and Memphis.
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Stuckey considers Tech; Salmon close to S. Carolina commitment
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Dewitt Stuckey of Lincoln High in Stockton, Calif. is leaning toward Oregon, but hasn’t ruled out scholarship offers from Arizona, Georgia Tech, Oregon State and Washington.
“I had hoped to attend Georgia Tech’s game against Boston College on Saturday, but I’m just not sure right now,” said Stuckey, the 13th-best weakside linebacker in the nation according to Scout.com. “I understand they already have commitments from two weakside linebackers [B.J. Machen of Hilliard Darby High in Hilliard, Oh. and Steven Sylvester of Cedar Grove].
“But I’m still interested in Georgia Tech.”
Stockbridge’s Salmon impressed with South Carolina
Stockbridge lineman Randy Salmon is inching closer to committing to South Carolina.
Salmon was among the 92,000-plus in attendance on Saturday during the Gamecocks’ victory over Georgia.
“Georgia couldn’t even score [a touchdown],” Salmon said. “South Carolina’s defense is much better than last year. I was happy with what I saw.
“I was telling everybody in the crowd that I’m playing there next year.”
When asked if an official commitment to the Gamecocks is forthcoming, Salmon said “I haven’t committed yet, but they are number one right now.”
Tech offers Washington County junior
Washington County safety/linebacker Brandon Watts’ first offer came from Georgia Tech in late July following a camp.
“I didn’t see [the offer] coming then,” said Watts, a junior. “But it feels good.”
The 6-foot-2, 220-pounder said he hasn’t decided if he will commit to Tech or wait on other offers.
“It’s up in the air right now,” he said. “I’m very interested in Georgia Tech. They have a great program.”
Offers pour in for Sprayberry’s Trawick
Sprayberry safety Brynden Trawick is reviewing offers from Boston College, Connecticut, Indiana, Louisiana Tech, Marshall, Maryland, Michigan State, Middle Tennessee State University, Mississippi State, Ole Miss, Purdue and Southern Miss.
Trawick was in attendance for Marshall’s loss to West Virginia on Saturday.
“I like the atmosphere at Marshall and how all the fans are loyal to the program,” Trawick said. “And I like how they played against the No. 3 program in the country.”
Trawick, who hopes to be at Bobby Dodd Stadium on Saturday for Tech’s ACC opener against Boston College, said Sunday he’s several weeks away from a commitment.
“Everything is still pretty open right now,” he said. “I’ll wait until December to make my decision.”
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Sabino still considering Tech; Thompson set to visit LSU
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Etienne Sabino, a linebacker for Dr. Michael Krop High in Miami, visited Southern Cal last weekend.
“It was a good trip,” said Sabino, who is considering the Trojans, Florida, Georgia Tech, LSU, Miami, North Carolina and Ohio State. “Even though they played Idaho, you could definitely feel the energy in the crowd and players.”
Sabino spent time with several members of the USC coaching staff.
“I got to see coach [Pete] Carroll and some of the other coaches,” he said. “They were all down to earth guys.”
The 6-foot-3, 230-pound Sabino, rated a four-star linebacker by Scout.com, was impressed with Tech’s 33-3 win over Notre Dame.
“I didn’t get to watch it, but I heard their defense played a great game,” he said.
Sabino confirmed his interest in the Jackets.
“Georgia Tech is still in the hunt,” he said. “I want to go to a game. I just don’t know when.”
Thomasville lineman to visit LSU
Brandon Thompson, a 6-foot-2, 294-pound defensive lineman will attend LSU’s home opener against Virginia Tech on Saturday.
“I’m just going out there to check out the game and the players,” Thompson said Thursday evening. “If I were to go to LSU, I’d want to know the benefits and the playing time I’d get.”
Thompson, rated the third-best defensive tackle in the nation by Scout.com, will be at Bobby Dodd Stadium on Sept. 29 when Georgia Tech entertains Clemson.
“I actually know all I need to know about Tech,” he said. “I just want to go there to check out the school and campus one more time before I make my decision.”
UGA still in contention for Painter
Vinston Painter of Maury High in Norfolk (Va.) said he’s still weighing scholarship offers from Florida, Georgia, Miami, Penn State and Virginia Tech.
“I still don’t have any favorites,” the 6-foot-5, 309-pound guard said.
Though he has yet to schedule any fall visits, Painter stays glued to the television on Saturdays.
“Oh yeah, I keep track of them all,” he said.
Salmon headed to Athens on Saturday
Stockbridge defensive tackle Randy Salmon will be a recruiting guest of Georgia on Saturday when the Bulldogs host South Carolina.
While he will be permitted to participate in the Dawgwalk and meet the Georgia coaches prior to the contest, Salmon’s interest will likely be across the field with coach Steve Spurrier’s Gamecocks.
Salmon is leaning toward a commitment to South Carolina.
“I’m just going to the game on Saturday as a fan,” he said.
Roswell’s Daniel plans visits
Roswell running back Alex Daniel has visits planned to Central Florida and East Carolina.
In addition to the Golden Knights and Pirates, Daniel has offers from Air Force, Arkansas, Miami (Ohio), San Diego State, Tulane and Utah.
author=Jeff Hood
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Jackson suffers season-ending injury; Roswell’s Embry to Oregon
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Heard County’s Dontavius Jackson, considered one of the premier running backs in the nation, suffered a broken left wrist during the second quarter of the Braves’ loss on Friday to Bremen.
Jackson, who had surgery early Saturday morning, is out for the remainder of the season.
“It’s in a soft cast,” Jackson said. “And it will be in a splint until the swelling goes down. They had to put a pin in my wrist.”
Jackson, who had projected an October commitment to Alabama, Clemson, Georgia, LSU or Penn State, says his timetable has changed.
“Since my season is pretty much over, everything will go a little faster now,” he said late Wednesday.
Jackson has made college recruiters aware of his injury. He plans to attend Georgia’s SEC opener against South Carolina on Saturday in Athens.
“It’ll be a good atmosphere,” Jackson predicted.
Embry headed to Oregon
Garrett Embry, a receiver for defending Class AAAAA co-champion Roswell, committed to Oregon earlier this week.
“I was out there on Sunday and Monday,” Embry said. “It was my second visit to Oregon.
“I just got up there and really liked it. They’ve got a great program out there. I felt like it was the right choice.”
Poole continues to favor Tennessee
Stephens County running back Tauren Poole said he’ll likely attend Tennessee’s home opener against Southern Miss on Saturday.
“I just want to make sure Tennessee is the place I want to go to college,” said Poole, who committed to the Volunteers earlier this year.
SEC foe South Carolina continues to capture Poole’s attention.
“South Carolina is a program on the rise,” he said. “I see improvement there every year.”
Gainesville’s Adetona set for Marshall visit
Gainesville receiver Tyler Adetona will visit Marshall this weekend. He’ll make the trek with Stephenson’s Ahmed Shakoor.
“I plan on going to West Virginia-Marshall on Saturday,” Adetona said. “Ahmed and I have been buddies ever since the Nike combine at Athens back in the spring.”
Adetona recently picked up a scholarship offer from Georgia Southern.
“They just laid it out to me and shot it to me straight,” Adetona said. “I was one of the first persons that Georgia Southern offered. I like their enthusiasm.”
Adetona, who also has offers from Indiana, Marshall, Middle Tennessee State and Troy, is now drawing interest from Louisville, N.C. State and Virginia Tech.
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Harmon remains bound for Clemson; King set for Athens visit
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Jefferson County defensive lineman A.J. Harmon, who has committed to Clemson, warned Georgia fans not to read too much into his presence at Sanford Stadium on Saturday.
“It was great,” Harmon said. “But I was just there watching [Jefferson County product and Georgia center] Fernando Velasco.”
Will Harmon reconsider his commitment to the Tigers?
“There’s nothing wrong with Georgia, but I’ll keep my word,” he said.
Harmon attended Clemson’s victory over Florida State on Monday night. He said the visit was worthwhile, despite pulling into his driveway at 5 a.m. the following morning.
“All the Clemson fans were telling me ‘this is your new home’ when I was walking by going to the game,” Harmon said. “They were taking pictures. It seemed like everybody knew who I was.”
King set for the Dogs’ SEC opener
Georgia-bound receiver Tavarres King of Habersham Central plans to be in attendance on Saturday when Georgia hosts South Carolina. He was also on-hand for the Dogs’ victory over Oklahoma State last weekend.
“It was fantastic,” King said. “It was loud the entire time. But I expected it to be like that.”
King arrived in Athens a little later than he had expected for the season opener.
“I got there a little late because traffic was pretty bad,” he said. “But I still got there in time to hear coach [Mark] Richt talk to the recruits.
“It was the normal speech. He was glad to have everybody at the game.”
King believes Sanford Stadium will be rocking Saturday evening.
“It’ll probably be even more louder than last week,” he said. “I know it’ll be more fun.”
Tech impress McRae
Dublin lineman Nick McRae, who committed to Georgia Tech in May, said he was mildly surprised to see the Jackets manhandle Notre Dame on Saturday.
“I kind of figured that Tech was going to win, but I didn’t think they’d beat them that bad,” McRae said. “It was something to watch them win that big.”
McRae said he’s hopeful he’ll be able to attend Tech’s home opener against Samford on Saturday. He’s a lock to be at Bobby Dodd Stadium on Sept. 15.
“I’m going to try to go the game on Saturday, but I know I’ll be at the Boston College game the following Saturday,” he said.
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Jackson impressed with UGA; Glenn attends Georgia opener
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Griffin defensive lineman Toby Jackson, who has committed to Georgia, was one of the recruits in attendance during the Bulldogs’ victory over Oklahoma State on Saturday.
“I enjoyed myself a lot,” Jackson said. “It was a very exciting atmosphere for the first game of the season. I had a great time.”
Jackson spoke with Jefferson County’s A.J. Harmon, who committed to Clemson earlier this year but showed up in Athens on Saturday decked out in Georgia attire.
“We chatted for a while,” Jackson said. “Me and him are good friends.
“We talked a lot about the recruiting process. He likes Georgia a lot. But he’s about like me, he’s going to weigh his options and look around.”
Riverdale’s Glenn remains uncommitted
Riverdale lineman Cordy Glenn predicted early last month he would make a commitment by the end of August.
But as of late Monday, Glenn is still soul searching.
Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisville, LSU and South Carolina remain his top candidates.
Glenn was at Sanford Stadium on Saturday.
“I got to watch the Dawgwalk, then I went to the game,” he said. “It was a good experience.”
Henry County junior set to receive offers
Henry County junior receiver Jamal Patterson is being recruited by programs such as Alabama, Auburn, Georgia Tech, Louisville, North Carolina, Notre Dame, South Carolina and Tennessee.
Patterson expects several scholarship offers to arrive this week.
He plans to attend the Tar Heels’ home game against Virginia on Sept. 15.
“I just want to wait my time before committing,” the 6-foot-3, 200-pound Patterson said. “But if there is a school I really like, I’ll commit there.”
Northgate’s Searcy leaning toward Mississippi State
Northgate defensive end James Searcy of Northgate has narrowed the list of schools he is considering to Central Florida, Mississippi State, Oklahoma State and Troy.
“I planning on going to Central Florida for their game against Texas on Sept. 15,” said Searcy, who is leaning toward Mississippi State. “I’ll visit Mississippi State in October or November. I haven’t set an exact date yet.”
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Stephenson’s Shakoor visits UGA; Thomas travels to Auburn
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Stephenson defensive back Ahmed Shakoor was among the recruits on hand for Georgia’s victory over Oklahoma State on Saturday at Sanford Stadium.
Shakoor might be rethinking his decision to commit to Marshall earlier this summer.
“I played at Clarkston last year,” Shakoor said. “They’re so small and some colleges were thinking maybe I didn’t have that much potential.
“But they’ve seen me in camps and seen me on film.”
Major offers, including one from Georgia, have started to arrive for the 5-foot-11.5, 195-pounder.
“I plan to go to games at Auburn, Miami and Louisville down the road,” Shakoor said. “I’m going to the Clemson/Florida State game Monday night and the Georgia/South Carolina game on Saturday.”
Shakoor said he’s still uncertain which position he’ll play in the defensive backfield on the college level.
“[Georgia defensive coordinator Willie] Martinez said I’m a great corner, but I have a safety’s size,” Shakoor said.
Walton’s Thomas visits Auburn
Auburn continues to court Walton defensive end Chase Thomas, who attended the Tigers’ dramatic come-from-behind victory over Kansas State on Saturday.
“I knew the defense would step up and make a play,” Thomas said. “I wasn’t too worried.”
Thomas hopes to make a commitment later this month.
“I’ll still visit Stanford in a couple of weeks, then make my decision,” he said.
Simmons headed to Clemson on Saturday
Banneker safety Darrell Simmons continues to favor Miami, but he plans to be in attendance on Saturday when Clemson hosts Louisiana-Monroe.
“I’m interested in Clemson,” said Simmons, who is also considering Alabama, Michigan, Ohio State and Tennessee.
“I like the Clemson coaching staff.”
North Carolina to offer SWD’s Waller?
Southwest DeKalb defensive back Manley Waller has a message for North Carolina coach Butch Davis.
“If the Tar Heels offer, I will commit to North Carolina,” Waller said Sunday night.
Waller already has scholarship offers from Akron, Bowling Green, Central Michigan, Ohio, UAB and Wake Forest.
“My second choice right now is Wake Forest, followed by UAB,” Waller said.
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