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November 2007
Reeves to visit Ole Miss; New offers for Mettenberger
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Stone Mountain receiver Charles Reeves Jr. will take an official visit to Ole Miss on Dec. 18.
Reeves, who is considering Auburn, Florida, Ole Miss, North Carolina, Tennessee and Southern Cal, is looking forward to meeting new Rebels coach Houston Nutt.
“I had already got to meet [former Ole Miss] coach [Ed] Orgeron and all his coaches,” Reeves said. “I was disappointed [that he was fired] because if I was going to Ole Miss the reason was the coaching staff.
“But I’ll have an open mind. You never know, I might like [coach Nutt] better.”
Reeves hopes to take official visits to Tennessee and Southern Cal prior to national signing day in February.
“I thought about visiting Hawaii, but they said you have to commit before you go there on an official,” Reeves said.
Offers rolling in for Mettenberger
Oconee County junior quarterback recently picked up scholarship offers from Boston College and Ole Miss.
The 6-foot-4, 190-pounder was offered by Florida State during the summer.
“I’ve never been a Seminoles fan, but I like [Florida State offensive coordinator] Jimbo Fisher a lot,” Mettenberger said. “If they keep recruiting me, I’ll keep looking at them and see what happens.”
Mettenberger was delighted to see Nutt named the new coach at Ole Miss.
“They definitely went higher in my book when they made that hire,” he said. “I’ll keep following them and see what happens.”
Mettenberger said he has no problem leaving the southeast and playing football in Boston.
“I’m willing to go anywhere as long as I get an opportunity to compete and have a chance at the starting job,” he said.
Alabama, N.C. State, Vanderbilt and Wake Forest are also recruiting Mettenberger.
Farley schedules visit
Grady linebacker Darryl Farley is considering offers from Georgia Southern, Marshall, Miami (Ohio), Tulane and Western Kentucky.
“I like Georgia Southern because it’s kind of close to home and I’ve got a good chance of early playing time,” Farley said.
Farley plans to visit Tulane in early January.
“I’ll probably commit on signing day,” he said.
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Tech slips with North Cobb’s Roark; Smith remains undecided
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Georgia Tech is no longer a front-runner in the recruitment of North Cobb quarterback Matt Roark.
“I was still considering them up until coach [Chan] Gailey got fired,” Roark said Wednesday evening. “Now, I’m just waiting to see what happens there.
“Right now, I’m considering Illinois, Kentucky, Oregon and Wake Forest.”
Roark, who took an official visit to Oregon earlier this fall, will travel to Illinois on Dec. 8 and Kentucky one week later.
The 6-foot-6, 190-pound Roark figured last week that Gailey’s status as Tech’s head coach was hanging in the balance.
“It was kind of a surprise, but I had heard all last week that if Georgia Tech loses to Georgia he would be fired,” he said. “So I was kind of aware that it could happen.”
Academics will dictate Smith’s choice
For Mays defensive end Bernard Smith, academics will be a major factor in where he plays college football.
“I’m looking a majoring in sports medicine with a minor in business,” Smith said. “So I’m looking at Florida, Clemson, Virginia and schools like that.
“Now if I was to change my major, and remember at first I wanted to be an engineer, then Georgia Tech and Auburn would be the top two choices.”
Smith, who briefly committed to Ole Miss earlier this year, was scheduled to attend last weekend’s Florida-Florida State game.
Instead, he wound up at Bobby Dodd Stadium as a guest of Tech to watch the Jackets play rival Georgia. Smith was among the group of recruits Gailey spoke with prior to kickoff.
“I really didn’t see [the firing] coming,” Smith said. “It’s hard enough to go to a team that’s rebuilding, but it’s even harder with a team that’s rebuilding with a new coach.
“But Tech is still up there for me. First of all, it’s home. And I have a couple of friends who will be there.
“I’m still waiting until January to make my decision.”
Anderson waiting to see if Tech offers
A week ago, Habersham Central cornerback Josh Anderson believed a scholarship offer from Georgia Tech was within his grasp.
But following this week’s coaching change, Anderson is left wondering what might have been.
“I really don’t know if I was close or not to an offer,” he said. “But I do know [Gailey and his staff] liked me.
“I’m going to take my time and see what happens and if they’re still interested in me when the new coach comes onboard.”
Anderson, whose favorites are Furman, Penn, Princeton and Georgia Tech, had hoped to see the Gailey era with the Jackets continue for years to come.
“I was really disappointed to hear about him being fired, to be honest,” Anderson said. “He’s a great guy, a really good coach and a great person.
“It’s kind of unfortunate.”
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LSU picks up ground on Sanders; Croom visits Salem’s Davis
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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LSU has gained ground on Georgia and Florida in the recruitment of 6-foot-6, 277-pound offensive tackle Zebrie Sanders of Northmont High in Clayton, Oh.
“The visit was great and the campus was nice,” said Sanders, who witnessed LSU’s dramatic overtime loss in Baton Rouge to Arkansas on Friday. “I loved [LSU] coach [Les] Miles. He was really good.
“LSU cracked the list a little bit. I liked it down there.”
Sanders said he’s still keeping a close watch on the Dogs.
“Georgia is definitely starting to get hot,” he said. “The line works as a group a lot.”
Sanders is expected to make a commitment prior to his birthday on Dec. 4.
MSU’s Croom in Conyers
Mississippi State coach Sylvester Croom made a stop in Rockdale County late Tuesday to visit Salem quarterback Terrance Davis.
“Coach Croom and [defensive line] coach [David] Turner were just at my house,” Davis said Tuesday evening. “Everything went good. Ever since coach Croom’s been there, I’ve liked Mississippi State.”
Davis, who has already committed to MSU, attended last weekend’s Egg Bowl between Ole Miss and Mississippi State in Starkville.
“The game was crazy and the fans were enthusiastic,” he said.
Davis said Florida is the only team that could pry him away from the Bulldogs.
“I’m still curious about Florida,” he said. “They still call me every week. I hope to get an offer when I get down there for an official visit in January.
“As of my right, Mississippi State is my option and I’m fine with that. If Florida offers me, I’ll take a look at them.”
Creekside’s Parks says he’s still Tallahassee-bound
Creekside cornerback Terrance Parks downplayed recent reports that he is reconsidering a commitment he made to Florida State earlier this year.
Parks was a guest of Auburn during the Tigers’ 17-10 victory over rival Alabama on Saturday at Jordan-Hare Stadium.
“I just took my official to Auburn to see what it’s like,” Parks said. “I’m still going to Florida State.”
Parks admitted that the FSU coaching staff was a bit on edge when they learned about his visit to Auburn.
“We let them know we were going to Auburn before we went,” he said. “But they were telling me to hurry up and get back.
“It’s all good.”
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Gailey’s firing impacts Page; Uzzi still high on Tech
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Kenneth Page of A.C. Flora High in Columbia, S.C., who is rated the 12th-best offensive guard in the nation by Scout.com, admitted Monday evening that Georgia Tech’s firing of coach Chan Gailey will have a negative impact on his recruitment.
“This hurts Tech,” said Page, who is considering the Jackets, Clemson, North Carolina, Notre Dame, Tennessee and South Carolina. “They’re not out of it, but it definitely hurts them.”
Tech will likely hire a new head coach before Page makes a commitment.
“I’ll commit close to signing day [in February],” said Page, who attended Saturday’s Clemson-South Carolina game in Columbia.
Could the new Tech coach rekindle Page’s interest in the Jackets?
“It’d all be according to who they hire,” he said.
Uzzi still considering Tech
Chamblee offensive lineman Omoregie Uzzi plans to take a wait-and-see attitude on Tech’s coaching situation.
In the interim, the Jackets remain in the running to land a commitment from the 6-foot-3, 290-pound guard.
“I’m still considering Tech,” Uzzi said Monday evening.
In addition to the Jackets, Uzzi is also weighing scholarship offers from Alabama, Auburn, Clemson and Virginia.
He had been considering Georgia until the Dogs received a commitment from Riverdale lineman Cordy Glenn last weekend.
“Georgia is already filled with linemen,” Uzzi said.
Drummond on the coaching change
West Hall junior linebacker/fullback Daniel Drummond was a regular fixture at Bobby Dodd Stadium this season.
Drummond, who is being recruited by Tech, was a guest of the Jackets for Saturday’s rival game against Georgia.
The 6-foot-3, 225-pound Drummond will continue to consider Tech despite the coaching change.
“I’m actually pretty disappointed,” Drummond said. “I think [Gailey] is a good coach.
“But I don’t think it will change things much for me recruiting-wise. Georgia Tech is a great school and that’s what I’m mainly looking at.”
Drummond admitted seeing some uneasiness in the Tech coaching staff prior to kickoff.
“It wasn’t just coach Gailey,” he said. “It seemed like all of the coaches were tense and a little uneasy. You could tell it was the rivalry game. There was a lot on the line.”
Auburn defensive coordinator Will Muschamp is being rumored as a potential replacement for Gailey.
Drummond, who is also being recruited by Auburn, likes the idea of Tech hiring a coach who is already aware of his talent.
“I think Muschamp is a really good coach,” Drummond said. “I think that would help my chances of getting offered.”
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Thomas still uncommitted; Simmons misses South Carolina visit
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Walton’s Chase Thomas wasn’t quite ready to pull the trigger on a commitment to Auburn Sunday morning.
The defensive end was still in Auburn celebrating the Tigers 17-10 victory over Alabama in the Iron Bowl. He is scheduled to return to metro Atlanta this afternoon.
“I just had a good visit,” Thomas said. “The atmosphere was crazy. It’s a big rivalry game.”
Thomas, who confirmed Sunday morning that he will likely choose between Auburn and Stanford, said the timing wasn’t right to commit this weekend.
“It’s strong on my mind, but I just don’t have that feeling yet,” said Thomas, who had also been considering Georgia Tech, LSU, North Carolina and Tennessee.
“I’m heading back home today.”
Banneker’s Simmons still considering Miami
Banneker safety Darrell Simmons, who told Scout.com last week he would seriously consider committing to South Carolina this weekend if his visit to Columbia goes well, was unable to attend Clemson’s 23-21 victory over the Gamecocks at Williams-Brice Stadium Saturday evening.
“I had a scheduling conflict,” Simmons said Sunday morning. “I’m still considering Miami, Alabama and South Carolina.”
Simmons also has offers from programs such as Florida, Tennessee and Ohio State.
South Carolina and Vanderbilt lead for Loftley
Chamblee defensive lineman Taylor Loftley said Sunday night he’s narrowed the list of schools he’s considering to a pair of SEC programs.
“Right now, it’s between Vanderbilt and South Carolina,” the 6-foot-2, 250-pound Loftley said.
Loftley, who watched Vanderbilt beat South Carolina in Columbia earlier this season, is scheduled to take an official to Nashville on Jan. 18.
On Vanderbilt: “I just think they’re trying to step up their game and be one of the top teams in the SEC. They’ve lost a lot of close games. I think they’re a really good team. Academics is important to me, and that’s one of the most important things they offer.”
On South Carolina: “The same thing as Vandy, and their fan support is incredible. Even when things aren’t going good, the fans are behind them. I like Columbia and have a good feeling when I’m there. I could see myself there.”
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UGA and Florida leader for Sanders; Drummond receiving letters
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Zebrie Sanders, a 6-foot-6, 277-pound offensive tackle for Northmont High in Clayton, Oh., has narrowed the list of schools he is considering to Georgia and Florida.
“Everything is going good,” said Sanders, who attended Georgia’s victory over Auburn earlier this month. “I’m still really interested in Georgia, but I just want to make sure it’s the right choice.”
Sanders is maintaining a keen eye on the few remaining scholarships the Dogs have available for members of the class of 2008.
“They have one spot open for a tackle,” Sanders said. “I know they picked up a commitment from [Riverdale tackle] Cordy Glenn this week.
“I talk to coach [Mark] Richt on a weekly basis.”
Sanders, who plans to attend No. 1 LSU’s home game against Arkansas on Friday, was in Athens for last season’s Georgia-Georgia Tech clash.
“I know what Georgia’s rivalry against Georgia Tech is all about,” he said. “I’m going to the LSU game and am considering them. But I’m not as interested in them as I am Georgia and Florida.”
Sanders plans to announce his commitment prior to his birthday on Dec. 4.
West Hall’s Drummond drumming up interest
West Hall junior linebacker/fullback Daniel Drummond has received letters from approximately 50 colleges throughout the country, including nearly every ACC and SEC program.
The 6-foot-3, 225-pound Drummond plans to attend Saturday’s Georgia-Georgia Tech game. He has already attended four Tech contests this fall. Drummond also attended an Auburn game earlier this season.
Drummond, who was recently named West Hall’s most valuable player on defense this season, has been invited to participate in the All-American combine in San Antonio in January.
According to Jim Drummond, Georgia Tech and Auburn are two of his son’s early favorites.
“Daniel really likes the people and family portion of Georgia Tech,” Jim Drummond said. “When he goes there, he’s treated like family. We’re on the field before the games.
“He’s got friends, like [Buford’s] T.J. Pridemore, who has committed to Tech.
“And Auburn sent their linebacker coach [James Willis] up to watch him play [against Gainesville]. That really impressed Daniel.”
Daniel Drummond hopes to have recruiting behind him prior to his senior season at West Hall next fall.
“I do hope that I’ll be fortunate enough to have the opportunity and be able to make a commitment decision before the end of next summer,” he said.
“I would like my senior year to be solely focused on just enjoying my last high school season, plus directing all my off-season conditioning and training to improve at whatever position I’m recruited for.”
Double digit offers for Stockbridge’s Vance King
Stockbridge safety/running back Vance King holds 19 scholarship offers from programs such as Arkansas, Central Florida, Indiana, Purdue and Vanderbilt.
With national signing day less than three months away, King said he has yet to rule out any offer.
“All of them stand out for me,” he said. “I’m still open. I don’t know where I want to go yet.”
King said he’s willing to play on either side of the ball.
“I love offense, but I love football,” said King, who attended the Boston College-Clemson game recently. “I just want to be on the football field.
“And as far as distance from home, it doesn’t matter. I’ll go far. I’m just looking for academics and looking at depth charts.
“I want to play as a freshman. I know that will be kind of hard, but I’m going to work for it.”
Dennard names favorites
Wilcox County cornerback Alphonzo Dennard has named Alabama, Clemson and Troy as his front-runners.
“And I like North Carolina too,” Dennard said. “They’re talking to me right now.
“I’ll probably commit after I take off of my visits, which should be sometime in January.”
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Harmon remains Clemson-bound; Brandon commits to Minnesota
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Jefferson County lineman A.J. Harmon, who has already committed to Clemson, continues to leave the door open to shift his allegiance to Georgia.
“I’m still a Clemson guy,” Harmon said Tuesday evening. “I just need a whole lot more time. I’m committed to Clemson. I’ll just enjoy my season and try not to think about it too much.”
Harmon said the fact Georgia is close to filling its allotted 25 scholarships available for the class of 2008 is weighing on his mind.
“That’s what keeps me on my toes about Georgia, ” said Harmon, considered the 14th-best offensive tackle in the country by Scout.com. “It’s winding down. Do I want to be a Georgia Bulldog?
“I’m just going back and forth. If it’s meant for me to go to Georgia, a spot will be open. If it’s not meant to be, then I’m going to Clemson.”
Brandon says yes to the Golden Gophers
Northview receiver Xzavian Brandon committed to Minnesota Tuesday evening.
“It’s just a great opportunity,” said Brandon, the son of former Atlanta Falcon David Brandon. “The coaches at Minnesota are amazing. They really stress academics and growing up as a person and a man, better than any school I visited. And I visited places like Florida and Mississippi State.
“Academically, it’s one of the top schools in the world. That was a major factor. And I have a great chance to go there and play early and start as a freshman in the Big 10. That’s important to me as well.”
Brandon’s commitment came two days following a trip to Minnesota.
“I visited there this past weekend and got back home on Sunday,” he said. “I was blown away by that place.”
Florida, Georgia Tech, Virginia Tech interested in Mays’ Smith
Mays defensive end Bernard Smith will attend Saturday’s Florida State-Florida clash in Gainesville.
“I’ll find out if Florida will give me a full ride when I get down there,” said Smith, who is still waiting on his first scholarship offer. “Hopefully, they will like what they see.”
Smith, who committed briefly to Ole Miss earlier this year before backing off on the Rebels, believes the offers will begin to arrive when word starts to spread that he is an academic qualifier.
“Florida was waiting on my ACT score,” he said. “I made a 17.”
Smith is also receiving interest from Georgia Tech, N.C. State and Virginia Tech. And he hasn’t ruled out talking to Ole Miss again.
“Virginia Tech said they want me to come up there on an official visit,” he said. “And I’ve already taken several visits to Georgia Tech. I know what I need to know about that school.
“I could seem myself playing for Georgia Tech, but I don’t see them having my major. I want to major in sports medicine with a minor in business. If I was going for bio-engineering or architecture, it would work out good at Tech.”
Smith offered his perspective on last weekend’s brawl, which erupted during Mays’ playoff victory over Cedar Shoals.
“I knew something would occur based on how [Cedar Shoals] acted prior to the game,” he said. “They were being disrespectful. We asked them if we could have our part of the field [during pregame warmups], but they said they didn’t have to move.
“Then they stood at the 50-yard line and started trash talking. At that point, I knew they were capable of anything. But I was expecting that to happen.”
Glenn delighted with commitment to Georgia
Two days after committing to Georgia, Riverdale lineman Cordy Glenn was still beaming over his decision to play college football for the Bulldogs.
“It still feels good,” Glenn said Tuesday night. “I’m glad to be a Bulldog.”
Glenn, who was also considering Alabama, said the Tide’s stunning loss to Louisiana-Monroe last weekend wasn’t a factor in his decision.
Hours after attending the Dogs victory over Kentucky at Sanford Stadium on Saturday, Glenn realized he wanted to spend the next four years in Athens.
“I decided Saturday night and called coach [Mark] Richt early Sunday morning,” he said. “He congratulated me and told me he’s got him a tackle now and that he’s glad I’m a Bulldog.”
Sabino set to become a Buckeye
Etienne Sabino of Dr. Michael M.Krop High in Miami has accepted an offer to play college football at Ohio State.
Considered the fourth-best linebacker recruit in the nation by Scout.com, Georgia Tech was among the six schools Sabino had been considering.
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Jackson to visit Auburn on Saturday; Bass waits on Tech
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Georgia-bound defensive end Toby Jackson of Griffin will forego the Georgia-Georgia Tech contest in Atlanta on Saturday to travel to Auburn to see the Tigers host rival Alabama.
“I’m taking an official visit on Saturday to Auburn to watch the Iron Bowl,” Jackson said Sunday evening.
Jackson was pleased to see Riverdale lineman Cordy Glenn commit to Georgia on Sunday.
“I think it was a real good move for Cordy and also a real good move for the Bulldogs,” Jackson said. “I think Georgia has a chance to have the number one recruiting class this year.”
Bass visits Western Kentucky
One week after visiting Southern Miss, Stockbridge quarterback Tyler Bass was back on the road again.
The 6-foot-4, 218-pound Bass enjoyed the sights and sounds of Western Kentucky’s victory over Morehead State on Saturday.
“I enjoyed my visit to Western Kentucky,” Bass said. “A lot of the questions I had were answered. Overall, I like Western Kentucky a lot.”
Bass had a similar reaction to his stay in Hattiesburg last weekend.
“I really like the fan support at Southern Miss,” he said. “Me and my dad went to a local restaurant there and the fans came up and talked to me because they knew I was being recruited by Southern Miss.”
Bass, who plans to fly to Louisville on Thursday Nov. 29 to watch the Cardinals host Rutgers, continues to wait on a potential scholarship offer from Georgia Tech.
Habersham Central’s Anderson attends Georgia Tech-North Carolina game
Habersham Central cornerback Josh Anderson appears to be closing in on an offer from Georgia Tech.
“Josh went to Tech’s game on Saturday [against North Carolina],” Anderson’s father, Jim Anderson said Sunday evening.
“He had a good talk with [Tech] coach [Chan] Gailey,” Jim Anderson said. “They said they’ve seen him play, they’ve seen his film and they really like him.”
Josh Anderson, who is also being recruited by Furman, Penn, Princeton and Western Kentucky, said Sunday night he’s willing to adjust his calendar for the upcoming weekend if the Jackets extend an invitation for him to attend Saturday’s Tech-Georgia clash at Bobby Dodd Stadium.
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Slaughter still sold on Notre Dame; Thomas preps for Iron Bowl
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Notre Dame-bound Jamoris Slaughter, a safety for Tucker, remains bullish on the Irish.
“I am still fully committed to Notre Dame,” said Slaughter, when asked if the worst season in Irish history, coupled with coach Charlie Weis being on the coaching hot seat, has him second-guessing his commitment.
“I remember coach Weis telling me before the season started that they are kind of young and they didn’t know how it would go. But I didn’t expect a season like this.”
Slaughter, who attended Notre Dame’s 38-0 loss to Southern Cal on Oct. 20, likely won’t visit the South Bend campus again before national signing day in February.
“I don’t think I’ll go back this year,” he said. “But I’ll go back for the spring game.”
Thomas focusing on six offers
Auburn and Stanford continue to lead in the recruiting battle for Walton’s Chase Thomas, while Georgia Tech, LSU, North Carolina and Tennessee maintain slim hopes of picking up a commitment from the 6-foot-5, 210-pound defensive end.
Thomas, who is contemplating attending Saturday’s North Carolina-Tech contest at Bobby Dodd Stadium or the Kentucky-Georgia game in Athens, is a lock to be at Jordan-Hare Stadium on Nov. 24 when Auburn hosts Alabama in the annual Iron Bowl.
Thomas wouldn’t rule out a commitment on the spot to the Tigers next weekend.
“We’ll see how it goes,” Thomas said. “If something happens, well you just never know.”
Thomas is considering official visits to North Carolina and Tennessee prior to signing day.
Patterson’s stock continues to soar
Henry County junior receiver Jamal Patterson was among the recruits on hand last weekend in Athens for Georgia’s victory over SEC rival Auburn.
“It was great,” Patterson said. “I love everything about Georgia.”
Patterson, who has scholarship offers from Purdue and Troy, plans to be at Sanford Stadium on Saturday when Georgia hosts Kentucky.
He’ll watch the Dogs in action again next weekend when they go on the road to Atlanta to play their in-state rival.
“Georgia Tech has invited me to the Georgia game [on Nov. 24],” said Patterson, who has a 4.56 GPA.
Patterson, accumulated 830 yards on 39 receptions and scored nine touchdowns during the regular season, is receiving mail from Alabama, Boston College, Clemson, Florida, Georgia, Georgia Tech, Louisville, LSU, Notre Dame, N.C. State, Rutgers, Tennessee, Virginia and Virginia Tech.
Georgia Tech recruiting Habersham Central cornerback
Georgia Tech coach Chan Gailey got an up close view of Habersham Central cornerback Josh Anderson when he attended the Red Raiders’ game against Loganville on Oct. 26.
Anderson, who is showing interest in Furman, Penn, Princeton and Western Kentucky, is scheduled to attend Tech’s game against North Carolina on Saturday.
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Glenn to attend UGA-Kentucky game; Uzzi visits Athens
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Riverdale’s Cordy Glenn continues to focus on scholarship offers from Alabama and Georgia.
The 6-foot-5, 310-pound offensive lineman plans to be in Athens on Saturday.
“I’m going to the Georgia-Kentucky game,” Glenn said. “I’m going to enjoy the game, but I want to get there early enough to do the dawg walk.”
Glenn is fully aware that some recruiting analysts believe Georgia’s current group of commitments is the second-best in the nation.
“Georgia has got a great recruiting class,” he said. “The coaches are doing a good job.
“I know some of the players they’re recruiting. We don’t exchange phone numbers or anything, but I’ve seen [Griffin defensive end and Georgia-bound] Toby Jackson at games.”
Uzzi gaining interest in Georgia
Omoregie Uzzi, considered the 27th-best guard in the nation by Scout.com, was in attendance on Saturday when Georgia trounced Auburn at Sanford Stadium.
“I liked it a lot,” said Uzzi, who is showing strong interest in Alabama, Auburn, Central Florida, Clemson, Georgia, Georgia Tech and Virginia. “I really enjoyed the visit.”
Uzzi said Georgia Tech remains a solid contender for his commitment.
“I still like Tech a lot,” he said.
The 6-foot-3, 293-pound Uzzi will be a guest of Georgia Tech when the Jackets host in-state rival Georgia on Nov. 24.
Anderson examining four offers
Habersham Central cornerback Josh Anderson figures he’s still several weeks away from crossing schools off his recruiting list.
“I’m not any closer today than I was [in October],” Anderson said. “Princeton, Penn, Furman and Western Kentucky are the main ones recruiting me pretty hard.
“I’m supposed to be making a visit to Penn in mid-December.”
Salem’s Davis remains sold on Mississippi State
Salem quarterback Terrance Davis said his commitment to Mississippi State remains firm, despite recent contact from defending national champion Florida.
“I’m still solid with Mississippi State,” Davis said Wednesday evening. “They’re not going to sign another quarterback in this recruiting class.”
Davis still hopes to take an official visit to Florida next month.
“Florida hasn’t offered me, but they call me every week,” he said. “They’re talking about getting me down there for an official visit in December. They just haven’t given me an exact date yet.”
The 6-foot, 180-pounder will still take at least one visit to Mississippi State prior to national signing day in February.
“I have my official visit to Mississippi State scheduled for January,” he said. “And I’m hoping we’re still in the playoffs next week, but I really want to go to the Ole Miss game.”
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Tennessee offers Tucker’s Calhoun; Simmons to visit S. Carolina
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Tucker junior running back Drayton Calhoun has received a scholarship offer from Tennessee.
“He’s a tall, slender kid who can still put some weight on and has exceptional speed,” Tucker coach Franklin Stephens said. “He’s a solid student and a can’t miss prospect.”
The 5-foot-11, 175-pound Calhoun has excelled in Tucker’s run-oriented offense.
“He’s a halfback on a wing-t offense,” Stephens said. “And I think each and every week he gets more comfortable with it.
“He gets better every week. I think he’s got the ability to hit the home run at any time.”
Stephens figures it’s only a matter of time before additional offers arrive.
“Drayton is getting letters from all over the country,” he said.
Banneker’s Simmons continues to evaluate offers
Banneker safety Darrell Simmons will take his first official visit on Nov. 24 when he travels to Columbia to attend the annual Clemson-South Carolina showdown.
Banneker coach Benny Crane thinks the Gamecocks might have the inside track on landing the 6-foot-1, 185-pound defensive back.
“I would say South Carolina has a great opportunity, primarily because three of his former Banneker teammates are on their roster,” Crane said.
But Simmons, who has taken unofficial visits this year to Alabama, Auburn, Clemson, Florida, Georgia and Tennessee, could be swayed to become a Volunteer if he listens to current teammate Steve Fowlkes, a defensive end who recently committed to Tennessee.
“Darrell is being recruited by every team in the country that is in the running for the national championship,” Crane said. “But I believe he’ll end up at a school within a four-hour radius of here, with the exception of Miami and Michigan.”
“My advice to him is to take three visits, then sit down and decide what’s important. He still has five official visits remaining, but I think three official visits is healthy.”
Trawick still considering Michigan State, Purdue, others
Sprayberry safety Brynden Trawick said Tuesday evening he’s still considering offers from Boston College, Connecticut, Indiana, Marshall, Maryland, Michigan State, Mississippi State, Ole Miss and Purdue.
“I’m going to start narrowing it down next month,” said Trawick, who is scheduled to visit Indiana on Saturday. “I’ll just take all my visits and see how everybody looks.”
Trawick enjoyed visits in early October to Michigan State and Purdue.
“I liked Michigan State a lot,” Trawick said. “I liked the way they brought in their past players from the Rose Bowl back.
“And I like Purdue’s football tradition and how they usually make it to a bowl game every year. And I really like their academics.”
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Miles commits to South Carolina; Allen still bound for Georgia
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Brookwood running back Kenny Miles wasted little time accepting a scholarship offer from South Carolina.
The Gamecocks extended the offer to the 5-foot-10, 200-pound back on Saturday. Miles said yes before heading back to Snellville.
“He was on a visit and they offered him while he was there,” Brookwood coach Mark Crews confirmed. “He already had offers from schools like Central Florida and Memphis.”
Miles rushed for 2,178 yards and scored 27 touchdowns during the regular season for the Broncos.
“He’s got a great attitude and work ethic,” Crews said. “And he’s an awfully strong kid.”
Allen reaffirms plans to sign with Georgia
Dwayne Allen, a tight end for Terry Sanford High in Fayetteville, NC, attended Georgia’s victory over Auburn on Saturday and came away impressed with his 48-hour stay in Athens.
“It was a wonderful visit,” said Allen, who returned home from Athens on Monday morning. “I really felt at home.
“The game was great. And the blackout certainly helped the atmosphere.”
Allen, who is being recruited as a tight end, attempted to squelch rumors that he might be reconsidering the commitment he made to the Dogs in February.
“I’m with Georgia,” Allen said Monday evening.
Allen plans to be in Blacksburg, Va. on Saturday when Virginia Tech hosts Miami.
Jackson commits to N.C. State
Colby Jackson, a 6-foot-2, 225-pound fullback for Trinity Christian in Dublin, intends to play college football for N.C. State.
He will become the first player from the GISA Class AA program in central Georgia to play for a Division I program in nearly a decade.
“As far as tailbacks go, he’s a very tough runner with incredible vision,” Trinity’s athletic coordinator Chuck Carson said. “Sometimes, he’ll try to outrun you. Other times, he’ll look for you to make contact.”
Jackson has rushed for 2,356 yards and 38 touchdowns this season.
Trinity hosts Brentwood School in the first round of the GISA playoffs on Friday.
Permalink | Comments (25) | Categories: South Carolina
Tech still in the mix for Thompson; Jackets to offer Bass?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Thomasville’s Brandon Thompson, considered the fourth-best defensive tackle in the nation by Scout.com, continues to show strong interest in five programs.
“I feel good about all the schools,” said Thompson, who is considering scholarship offers from Clemson, Georgia Tech, LSU, Ohio State and Tennessee.
The 6-foot-2, 295-pound Thompson plans to travel to Clemson on Saturday when the Tigers host Boston College.
Thompson, who visited Tech earlier this year, said he’d enjoy the opportunity to play for Jackets coach Chan Gailey.
“I’d love to play for him,” Thompson said. “He’s a real nice guy.”
Thompson, who visited Ohio State during the first weekend of Nov., didn’t appear stunned after learning that the Buckeyes lost in Columbus on Saturday to Illinois.
“Any team can lose,” he said. “I guess it was just their time to lose.”
After admitting that he’s confided in very few people over where he will play college football, Thompson refused to set a timetable on when he might commit.
He did rule out delaying his decision until signing day in February.
“Oh, it won’t be that long,” he said.
Bass visits Southern Miss
Stockbridge quarterback Tyler Bass spent the weekend on an unofficial visit to Southern Miss.
Other candidates to receive an unofficial visit from Bass include Louisville, Purdue and Western Kentucky.
“I want to see these places and see the campus first and, if I like it, go back on an official visit,” Bass said.
The 6-foot-4, 218-pound could be on the verge of receiving an offer from Georgia Tech.
“I just got an e-mail from [Georgia Tech recruiting coordinator] coach [Giff] Smith,” Bass said. “He wants me to contact him.”
Bass hinted that he might pull the trigger on a commitment to Tech, if the Jackets offer.
“Georgia Tech is a very good school academically,” Bass said. “And the thing that will weigh on my college degree is the name of the school on the diploma.
“I know a degree from Georgia Tech carries a lot of weight, not only in the United States, but around the world.
“And they have a great football team. I’ve been going to games there since I was young.”
Tennessee and Ole Miss in the lead for Reeves
Stone Mountain receiver Charles Reeves Jr. said Sunday night he will likely commit to Florida, North Carolina, Ole Miss or Tennessee.
Reeves labeled the Volunteers as his front-runner, with Ole Miss closing ground quickly.
“I’m going to the LSU-Ole Miss game [in Oxford] this weekend on an unofficial visit,” Reeves said. “My first official visit will be to Ole Miss in January.
“I want to save my official visits until after the season because I’ll get to spend more personal time with the coaches then.”
Permalink | Comments (34) | Categories: Tech
New offer for Walton’s Thomas; Shakoor to visit Athens
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Walton defensive end Chase Thomas has picked up a new scholarship offer.
“I just got an offer from North Carolina,” said Thomas, who currently lists Auburn and Stanford as his favorites, just ahead of Georgia Tech, LSU, Tennessee and the Tar Heels.
“North Carolina is a great school. It’s the No. 1 public school out there. I’ll probably visit there after the season.”
Thomas, who plans to be a college football fan on Saturday when he attends the Auburn-Georgia contest in Athens along with a friend, said the fate of Tech coach Chan Gailey, who was booed during the Jackets’ loss to Virginia Tech last week, will have no impact when he chooses a college.
“He’s definitely a great coach,” Thomas said. “But if coach Gailey ends up getting fired, it’s not going to influence my decision.”
Stephenson’s Shakoor interested in Auburn and Georgia
Stephenson defensive back Ahmed Shakoor will be a guest of the Bulldogs on Saturday when Auburn rolls into Athens to renew the oldest rivalry in the Deep South.
“I want to find out about both teams,” Shakoor said. “Auburn has offered me and Georgia is on me strong. I’ll be a guest of Georgia, but I’ll be evaluating both teams.”
Shakoor is confident the Dogs will offer him once they receive film filled with highlights of his senior season.
“Georgia is waiting on my film,” he said. “I didn’t get to go to a summer camp there this year.
“I want to go to the game and check out Georgia and [defensive coordinator] coach Willie Martinez.
Callaway’s Byrd weighing options
Two Division I programs continue to pique the interest of Callaway defensive end Ronald Byrd Jr.
“He likes Louisville a whole bunch, and I know he also likes Arkansas,” Callaway coach Pete Wiggins said.
“Overall, he’s got something like eight or nine offers.”
Hart County’s Curry looking for package deal
Hart County quarterback Kurvin Curry holds scholarship offers from Central Michigan and Duke. And he believes Georgia Southern and UAB are on the brink of offering him.
“Duke offered me during my junior year,” Curry said. “But I haven’t heard from them in a while. I was very interested, but I’ve lost contact with them.
“I’m very interested now in Central Michigan. It’s just that it’s so far away from home. I like the program and the offense they run. They talk to me a lot about how much they want me.”
Curry said he’s trying to convince coaches at Central Michigan, Georgia Southern and UAB to take him and Hart County teammate Rod Harland, a defensive back, as a package.
“Rod and I are trying to go into a deal together,” Curry said. “Early in the summer, UAB was talking to us. We’re trying to get them to offer.
“I’m also trying to get Central Michigan to offer Rod.”
Permalink | Comments (4) | Categories: Other schools
Uzzi interested in Tech, UGA; Paige courted by service academies
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Don’t count Chamblee offensive lineman Omoregie Uzzi among those in attendance at Bobby Dodd Stadium last week who booed Georgia Tech coach Chan Gailey during the Jackets’ loss to Virginia Tech.
The 6-foot-3, 293-pound Uzzi, considered the 27th-best guard in the country, remains high on the Ramblin’ Wreck.
“I still like Georgia Tech a lot,” said Uzzi, who plans to be in Athens on Saturday when Georgia hosts Auburn then return to Grant Field two weeks later for the annual Georgia-Georgia Tech clash.
Uzzi, who has scholarship offers from programs such as Alabama, Auburn, Central Florida, Clemson, Georgia, Georgia Tech and Virginia, claims he’s not far along in the recruiting process to eliminate schools and name a top-five.
Uzzi, who attended last month’s Clemson-Virginia Tech matchup, confirmed that Georgia remains in solid contention for his commitment.
“I’m still very interested in Georgia,” Uzzi said Wednesday evening.
Uzzi refused to venture a guess on when he might commit.
“I’m not sure,” he said. “I’ll commit whenever it feels right.”
Woodward Academy’s Paige drawing interest
Woodward Academy running back/defensive back Jamal Paige (5-9, 175) is being recruited heavily by all three service academies — Air Force, Army and Navy — as well as UAB.
But he said he has begun to get attention from some schools in BCS conferences, including Georgia Tech, where he will make an official visit during basketball season.
Big Friday for Landmark’s Lenard
Landmark Christian Academy running back Walter Lenard hopes his 32-carry, 390-yard, three-touchdown performance last week against Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy will pique the interest of college recruiters.
Thus far, the 6-foot-1, 210-pound Lenard said he doesn’t have any offers and hasn’t had much contact from recruiters.
“I know it’s hard getting noticed playing at a Class A school,” Lenard said.
Lars Tate’s son receives invitation to elite combine
Cartersville quarterback Donavan Tate, a junior, has been invited to participate in January’s U.S. Army All-American Combine, which will feature the nation’s top rising seniors.
Tate is the son of former UGA tailback and NFL running back Lars Tate.
UGA freshman Caleb King was named the Most Valuable Player at the combine in 2006, prior to his senior season at Greater Atlanta Christian.
Staff writer Seth Coleman contributed to this report
Permalink | Comments (32) | Categories: Tech
Jones commits to Alabama; Jarboe visits Oklahoma
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Barrett Jones, a 6-foot-5, 270-pound offensive tackle for Evangelical Christian School in Cordova, Tenn., committed to Alabama on Monday.
“I grew up as an Alabama fan,” said Jones, who had also been considering Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee and Vanderbilt. “I did my research and went to a lot of schools.
“There’s a bunch of great schools out there. But Alabama is the one I feel where I belong. So I called [Alabama] coach [Nick] Saban Monday night and told him I wanted to commit.”
Scout.com rates Jones as the 15th-best offensive tackle in the nation in the class of 2008.
Jarboe visits Oklahoma
Cedar Grove receiver Josh Jarboe was in attendance on Saturday when Oklahoma spanked Big 12 foe Texas A&M 42-14 in Norman.
“The visit was alright,” Jarboe said. “They showed me around and I talked to all of the coaches.”
Jarboe, who is considering scholarship offers from Florida, Georgia, Georgia Tech, LSU, Miami, Ohio State, Oklahoma and Tennessee, hopes to make the trek to Baton Rouge later this month with Cedar Grove teammate Xavier Avery, who recently committed to Georgia.
“Xavier and I will likely take a visit to LSU in a couple of weeks,” Jarboe said. “[Xavier] is still looking, but he’s committed to Georgia.”
Troup’s Oliver picks Central Florida
Troup offensive lineman John Oliver plans to play college football for coach George O’Leary and the Central Florida Golden Knights.
“I committed to Central Florida on Sunday morning,” said Oliver, who attended the Golden Knights’ 47-13 victory over Marshall in Orlando on Saturday.
O’Leary, a former Georgia Tech coach, and his staff made a lasting impression on the 6-foot-6, 270-pound Oliver.
“I like the honesty of the coaches,” Oliver said. “What I liked about them is they acted like they were already coaching and critiquing me. They were upfront and honest.
“Character is a big thing on the team, and it speaks real loud when you meet the players. The attitude down there, and the campus, is amazing.”
Oliver, who is projected to be a 300-pound lineman, said he’s comfortable with O’Leary’s decision to redshirt him during his freshman season.
“I’ll be a practice dummy for my first year, but I’ll get to know the system,” Oliver said.
Permalink | Comments (20) | Categories: Alabama
Thomasville’s Thompson visits Ohio State; Jackson visits ‘Bama
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Thomasville defensive lineman Brandon Thompson, one of the missing jewels in Georgia Tech’s current recruiting class, remains silent on his college plans.
“He just doesn’t talk much,” Thomasville coach Richie Marsh said Monday evening.
The fourth-best defensive tackle in the nation according to Scout.com, Thompson is coming off a visit to Ohio State on Nov. 2.
“I asked if he had a good time at Ohio State and he said he did,” Marsh said. “He went by himself. His father usually goes with him on visits.”
Thompson, whose front-runners appear to be Clemson, Florida State, Georgia Tech, LSU, Miami and Florida, visited Tech on Sept. 29.
“I think he’s got an interest in Georgia Tech,” Marsh said. “And just from knowing everything, I’m sure he’s still considering Clemson. That was from the get go.
“I’m sure he’ll wait until the end of the season to see how everything unfolds with how teams finish and what coaches stay and what coaches don’t stay.”
Griffin’s Jackson to be in Athens on Saturday
Georgia-bound defensive end Toby Jackson of Griffin continued his tour of SEC schools by attending Saturday’s LSU-Alabama contest in Tuscaloosa.
“I enjoyed myself,” Jackson said. “I like Alabama a lot. They have great coaches, a good stadium and a good environment. It was an all-around good visit.”
Jackson spent time at the game with Riverdale lineman Cordy Glenn, who is expected to accept a scholarship offer from Alabama or Georgia.
“Cordy and I got to talk a lot,” Jackson said. “We sat together at the game. We’ve known each other for a while from playing against each other.
“He didn’t say where he was leaning. He’s just going to take his time.”
Jackson plans to be in Athens on Saturday when the Dogs host Auburn. He is expected to attend the Alabama-Auburn game later this month.
“I’m still with Georgia, but I’m weighing my options,” Jackson said. “I never know what might happen.
“If I had to sign tomorrow, I would be going with Georgia. But I’ve got until February.”
Washington County’s Watts holds offer from Tech
Washington County junior linebacker Brandon Watts, who has an offer from Georgia Tech, is being heavily recruited by three SEC powers.
“Auburn, Georgia and Florida are showing interest in me,” Watts said.
Watts considers himself a fan of Tech coach Chan Gailey.
“He’s a good coach,” Watts said. “I liked him when I went to some of the camps at Georgia Tech.”
Watts figures he will wait until his senior season to make a commitment.
“Tech is out front right now, but it’s kind of open,” he said.
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Blessed Trinity’s Howard commits to Tulane; Roark talks Tech
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Blessed Trinity offensive lineman Harris Howard plans to play college football for Tulane.
“I committed to Tulane on Wednesday,” Harris said Sunday evening. “First of all, [choosing Tulane] is all about education.
“And they’ve got an excellent football team. I went down there last weekend to visit. They were always my number one choice.”
Howard was also being recruited by Georgia Southern, Samford and the military academies.
“Those schools are great and close to home and that was the most attractive thing about them,” he said. “But I feel like Tulane will give me a chance to get out there and play competitive football.”
Howard, who currently plays offensive tackle for Blessed Trinity, is expected to line up at guard at Tulane.
Georgia Tech one of Roark’s four candidates
North Cobb quarterback Matt Roark, whose current favorites are Georgia Tech, Kentucky, Oregon and Wake Forest, got an up-close look at Tech fans booing Yellow Jackets coach Chan Gailey Thursday night.
The 6-foot-5 Roark attended the Jackets’ loss last week to Virginia Tech.
“Coach Gailey is really a good person,” Roark said. “The fans are probably just upset because they haven’t won many games lately. They’re blaming it on him.”
Roark, who also attended Tech’s victory over Clemson earlier this season, said the Jackets’ recent slump and the fact some of the fan base chose to boo the team’s head coach on Thursday has no impact over which program he will sign with in February.
“That doesn’t really bother me,” he said. “It won’t affect my decision either way.”
Roark, who is scheduled to attend the Tennessee-Kentucky contest in Lexington later this month, said he has strong interest in Oregon.
“I’m really considering them,” Roark said. “The distance away from home really isn’t a factor to me.”
Ward names favorites
Martin Ward, a running back for Mt. Zion, Jonesboro who briefly committed to Georgia earlier this year, is now leaning toward Louisville and South Carolina.
“I’m interested in South Carolina, Louisville, Clemson, Memphis, Miami (Ohio) and Purdue,” Ward said. “And Marshall has given me a call.
“But my top two right now would have to be South Carolina and Louisville.”
Ward has had little contact with Georgia coaches recently.
“I haven’t heard from them,” he said. “They’re pretty much set [at running back]. I want to go somewhere where I’ll get some playing time.”
The 5-foot-11, 190-pound Ward said the Cardinals and Gamecocks are looking to use him as a all-purpose back.
“They want to use my speed, I guess like a scatback,” he said. “I can catch the ball out of the backfield. I’m somebody that, when you need the yardage, you can put me back there.”
Permalink | Comments (3) | Categories: Other schools
Loftley eyes two SEC teams; Brandon to visit Minnesota
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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A pair of SEC programs have emerged as the frontrunners in the recruitment of Chamblee defensive lineman Taylor Loftley.
“Right now, the two schools I have the most interest in are Vanderbilt and South Carolina,” Loftley said Thursday evening.
On Vanderbilt: “I really think they’re trying to do big things with the program. They’re real serious about it. I like their academics. The players on the team seem like they’re real close.”
On South Carolina: “When I went there two weeks ago for the Vanderbilt game, I really liked the campus, the stadium, the fans and the coaching staff. And the players were real cool. A lot of them talked to me”
Loftley met South Carolina coach Steve Spurrier during his visit to Columbia.
“He basically told me how much they wanted me,” Loftley said. “It was really exciting to get to meet him.”
Guaranteed starting position for Brandon at Minnesota
Northview receiver Xzavian Brandon, son of former Atlanta Falcon David Brandon, is scheduled to visit Minnesota on Nov. 17.
“I’ll go play anywhere,” said Brandon, who also has scholarship offers from programs such as Ball State, Mississippi State, San Diego State, UAB and Western Michigan. “The thing I like about Minnesota is they play in the Big 10.
“They’ve guaranteed that I’ll start as a true freshman, based on them seeing my senior highlight film. And they run the spread offense. It will give me an opportunity to showcase my skills to the country.”
Brandon is still weeks away from a commitment.
“It’s still really early,” he said. “I’ve just started getting my senior tape out. My game has really changed since my junior year.
“I’ve gotten a lot bigger, a lot faster and more explosive.”
New offer for Roswell’s Daniel
Roswell running back Alex Daniel has been offered by Northwestern.
“I’m definitely interested,” said Daniel, who now has a total of 12 offers. “I got to talk to Northwestern’s head coach and some of their other coaches. They’re in the Big 10. I plan to visit there after the season is over.”
Daniel said he wasn’t surprised to hear from Northwestern.
“My dad has sent film out to a lot of schools,” he said. “I got a call from one of the Northwestern recruiting coordinators last week and they said they’re very interested in me.”
Daniel expects to make a commitment following the season.
Permalink | Comments (6) | Categories: Other schools
