AJC > Sports > Football Recruiting > Blog > Archives > 2008 > January
January 2008
After USC visit, Jackson still “good with Georgia”
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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The clock has finally struck midnight on Griffin defensive lineman Toby Jackson’s recruiting bachelor party.
Four days after completing an unexpected visit to Southern Cal, Jackson said Thursday evening he is set to walk to the college football altar on Wednesday and sign with Georgia.
“I’m still good with Georgia,” Jackson said. “I told [assistant] coach [Rodney] Garner before I went out there that I’m still pretty solid with Georgia.
“I told him it would take a lot for USC to take me away from Georgia. Coach [Mark] Richt doesn’t have anything to worry about.”
Jackson admitted that he was caught off guard when Southern Cal coach Pete Carroll phoned him last week and invited him to Los Angeles
“[Southern Cal] had been kind of silent and laid back with me with a few calls and letters,” Jackson said. “I wasn’t planning on taking a trip out there. But coach Carroll called and wanted me to fly out for a visit.
“I said ‘why not?’ I want to give everybody a chance.
“I had a good time and the coaches were fun to be around. And they have such a great tradition out there. But I’m 100 percent with Georgia.”
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Georgia back in the mix for Tucker’s Lipscomb?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Just when it appeared there were no scholarships remaining to be offered to its class of 2008 recruiting class candidates, Georgia recruiting coordinator Rodney Garner made a surprise visit to Tucker earlier this week to make a late pitch to defensive back Neiko Lipscomb.
“Coach Garner was at the school the other day, and he talked to Neiko,” Tucker coach Franklin Stephens confirmed Thursday evening.
If Georgia does produce a last-minute scholarship, the Dogs will find themselves in a fierce recruiting battle with two other SEC programs for Lipscomb.
Lipscomb, who had been leaning toward committing to Auburn earlier this week, is suddenly showing interest in Alabama.
“Neiko is going to Alabama to visit this weekend,” Stephens said. “I’m not sure if they’ve actually offered him or not, but [assistant] coach [Kirby] Smart came by on Monday and talked to him after he didn’t commit to Auburn last weekend.”
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Petrino leaves good impression with Atlanta prospects
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Former Falcons coach Bobby Petrino proved he can still make a good impression in the Atlanta area.
Petrino, now coach at Arkansas, spent extensive time over the past two weeks recruiting the top two prospects from Chattahoochee High School, defensive end Justin Smith and safety Elton Ford.
“My impression of [Petrino] was very high. I was just really impressed with how honest he was with the kids,” Chattahoochee coach Terry Crowder said. “I would have to say he is now one of my favorite head coaches I’ve ever met. I just can’t say enough good things [about our meetings].”
Did the subject of the Falcons come up? “No, we never talked about it at all,” Crowder said.
When Petrino showed up at the Alpharetta school last week, he created a stir with his celebrity status among students and faculty. Petrino was able to convince Ford to flip-flop from N.C. State to the Razorbacks, with Ford revealing the switch after an official visit to Arkansas last weekend.
“I just got a good vibe about Coach Petrino from the start: He is straight up and honest about everything,” Ford said.
“I know all about what happened with him and the Falcons, but that didn’t have any influence on me. I guess he just had to do what was best for him. I know I’m doing what is best for me, and that’s to play for [Petrino] at Arkansas. He just wins wherever he goes.”
Petrino perhaps made his best impression with his reaction to Smith breaking the commitment he made to Arkansas last summer in order to follow coach Houston Nutt to Ole Miss. Nutt resigned in November and was hired by the Rebels in December.
Said Crowder: “Coach Petrino understood and didn’t give Justin [any guilt trips]. He wants players at Arkansas that want to be Arkansas Razorbacks, so he was fine with everything.”
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Uzzi ‘has not made up his mind’
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Omoregie Uzzi did not choose Thursday afternoon to play football at Georgia Tech, but the Chamblee High lineman did not choose another school, either.
And the Yellow Jackets remain in the running, apparently, for his services.
“He still has not made up his mind,” Chamblee coach Jim Showfety said at about 2:45 p.m. “I think you’ll know something within the next 24 hours. I think it’s going to be Georgia Tech or Virginia.”
Uzzi has also considered the Universities of Georgia and Alabama among other schools.
“My gut feeling tells me it’s going to be Georgia Tech,” Showfety said. “But it’s not done. It’s down to Georgia Tech and Virginia.”
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Georgia commit Jackson flirts with Southern Cal
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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The Bulldog Nation held it collective breath earlier this week after word began circulating that Griffin defensive tackle Toby Jackson, who has committed to Georgia, hopped on a plane bound for Los Angeles over the weekend to tour the campus of Southern Cal.
Jackson’s visit captured the attention of Georgia coach Mark Richt and recruiting coordinator Rodney Garner, who spent time with Jackson Tuesday night at his home in Griffin.
“I don’t think they were too worried about me going to USC, but they did have some questions for me,” Jackson told Rivals.com. “I told them that they did not have anything to worry about and that I was definitely signing with Georgia.”
Southern Cal coach Pete Carroll had been scheduled to visit Jackson in Griffin on Wednesday. But Jackson contacted Southern Cal officials and requested that Carroll’s trip be cancelled.
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Chamblee’s Uzzi courted by Tech and Virginia
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Coaches from Georgia Tech and Virginia used in-school visits on Wednesday to explain to Chamblee offensive lineman Omoregie Uzzi why he should commit to their programs.
“Tech came in the morning and Virginia came in the afternoon,” Chamblee coach Jim Showfety said. “It’s almost funny hearing these sales pitches.
“The guy from Virginia was down in my office and, I tried to stay out of it, but I could hear what he was saying. It’s like a guy trying to convince the girl to go to the prom with him.”
Showfety believes Uzzi will likely pull the trigger on a commitment by Thursday.
“I think it will happen in the next 24 hours,” Showfety said Wednesday evening. “My hunch is it will be Tech, but I won’t believe it until I see it and hear it.
“I think he’s kind of struggling with this. But either way wouldn’t surprise me. My gut feeling says Tech, but if he says Virginia I won’t be surprised. I think we’ll hear something by the end of Thursday.”
Uzzi has apparently eliminated Alabama from consideration.
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Avery says he will sign with Georgia
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Cedar Grove’s Xavier Avery confirmed Wednesday night to Georgia recruiting coordinator Rodney Garner that he will sign with the Dogs next week. Oklahoma had been making a late push for the talented running back.
“I like Oklahoma’s program,” said Avery, who is being recruited by Georgia as an athlete. “I like a lot of programs. There’s nothing wrong with Oklahoma. I just like Georgia better.
“My family and I met with coach Garner [Wednesday night]. It was a good talk. I told him I feel good about Georgia.”
The ultimate question of whether Avery actually steps onto the field at Sanford Stadium in a Georgia uniform will be answered this summer following the major league baseball draft.
The 6-foot, 190-pounder is expected to be a high-round choice. Avery said it’s too soon to pinpoint where he needs to be drafted to forego his scholarship at Georgia.
“I can’t really tell right now,” he said. “When me and my advisor sit down and talk about it, we’ll make a decision. I want a fair offer.
“Everybody would like the big dollars. You can’t fault me for wanting that. But everybody isn’t going in the first round. I’d be throwing away so much to go play [professional baseball]. I’d like something in return. It’s only fair.”
Georgia coaches have told Avery he will be allowed to play baseball and football for the Dogs.
Avery said he, Oklahoma-bound Josh Jarboe and several other Cedar Grove teammates plan to sign their letter of intents at the ESPN Zone on Wednesday. They will participate in a signing day ceremony at their school later in the day.
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Tech making push for ECI defensive lineman
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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ECI junior defensive lineman J.C. Lanier said Tuesday night he has received an invitation to visit Georgia Tech this weekend.
“They want me to come up there on Saturday so they can talk to me one on one,” Lanier said. “Tech is definitely in my top three.
“If you have Tech on your resume, you can pretty much work anywhere. I want to go there and check them out.”
Lanier enjoyed an in-school visit from a pair of Clemson assistant coaches on Tuesday.
“The visit went good,” he said. “I’m real high on Clemson. They’re my number one choice. But I’m also interested in Georgia Tech, Georgia, Florida and Florida State.”
Unlike his two ECI junior teammates, Washaun Ealey and Dexter Moody, who committed to Georgia earlier this month, Lanier said he’s in no hurry to pledge his allegiance to a single school just yet.
“I’m taking my time and waiting for other offers,” said Lanier, who is considered the 20th-best player in the Class of 2009 by Rivals.com. “I’m not rushing anything.”
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Ex-Tech commit Renfree heading to Duke
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Quarterback Sean Renfree of Notre Dame Prep in Scottsdale, Ariz., who withdrew his commitment to Georgia Tech in December, will still play college football in the ACC.
The 10th-best quarterback in the nation according to Scout.com, Renfree committed to Duke late Monday.
“It was a tough decision, but I feel it was the best opportunity for me,” Renfree told Scout.com. “I really bought into what coach [David] Cutcliffe is preaching.
“He wants to be competitive in the ACC and wants to play fast, smart football. He also has a great reputation for developing quarterbacks.”
Renfree chose the Blue Devils over Arizona State and Boise State.
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Tech, UVa to visit Uzzi today
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Chamblee offensive lineman Omoregie Uzzi, considered the ninth-best guard in the Class of 2008 by Scout.com, will receive in-school visits today from Georgia Tech and Virginia coaches.
Tech assistant Brian Jean-Mary is one of the coaches scheduled to represent the Jackets.
After narrowing his choices to Alabama and Tech earlier this month, Virginia has suddenly entered the picture for the 6-foot-4, 295-pound Uzzi.
“Omoregie went to Virginia this past weekend,” Chamblee coach Jim Showfety said Tuesday evening. “He’s already visited Alabama and Georgia Tech. I think he really enjoyed all three visits.
“It’s those three, only Virginia has definitely increased its place.”
Despite the Cavaliers late push, Showfety believes Tech still has a good chance of picking up a commitment from Uzzi.
“I think Tech is definitely still at or near the top,” he said. “But I know Virginia is there too.”
Uzzi will likely declare a commitment this week.
“He’s told me he doesn’t want to wait until signing day [on Feb. 6],” Showfety said. “He’s a great kid. I think he wants to make everybody happy.
“But I think he’s being very, very thorough in making his decision.”
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Dogs add another LB commitment
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Chase Vasser had eight recruiting visits set up.
He cancelled them all Monday night.
The first junior offered by Georgia has committed to Georgia. Vasser, of Chestatee High School, was the third 2009 prospect to commit to Georgia on Monday. Earlier Emanuel County Institute running back Washaun Ealey and Dexter Moody made public their commitments to Georgia.
Vasser waited until later Monday night to make his call to Georgia.
“I didn’t want anybody to take my spot,” Vasser said.
To that end, Vasser had a deal with Georgia: He wanted to know the second any other linebacker committed to the Bulldogs. He knew Georgia was going to take only two linebackers in the class of 2009, and he wanted to make sure he was one of those two.
“When I heard [Dexter] Moody committed early today, I called up Coach (John) Jancek and told him I was committed,” Vasser said. “I wasn’t even going to wait for him to call me.”
Vasser, 6 feet 4, 208 pounds, said he didn’t realize how much he cherished the Georgia offer until it almost slipped through his hands.
Vasser had 138 tackles, 36 for loss, 13 sacks, three forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries in 10 games this season. He also scored two touchdowns on fake punts.
Vasser was offered by Virginia Tech Monday morning. He was scheduled to visit Georgia Tech this weekend but said he will not make the trip. Georgia offered Vasser two weeks ago.
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ECI defensive tackle on several radars
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Fresh off the news that Emanuel County Institue juniors Washaun Ealey and Dexter Moody have committed to Georgia, a pair of assistant coaches from Clemson will invade the tiny town of Twin City on Tuesday in hopes of securing a commitment from defensive tackle J.C. Lanier.
But the Tigers will likely have to wait a few months on a decision by Lanier, who is rated as the 20th-best player in the Class of 2009 by Rivals.com.
“Clemson, Georgia, Georgia Tech and Florida are at the top of his list,” ECI coach Milan Turner said Monday evening. “But he won’t make any decisions until spring time or early summer.
“He wants to make sure that his decision is the right place. And he’s doing a good job of handling that.”
Turner believes the 6-foot-3, 335-pound lineman is leaning toward Clemson.
“J.C. is not enamored with Georgia as a lot of people,” Turner said. “I’d say Clemson is his number one choice right now. They’re coming to see him on Tuesday.
“He’s interested in Clemson, and I think Georgia knows that.”
As of Monday, Lanier had not received a scholarship offer from Georgia. If the Dogs do offer, it will likely be at the offensive tackle position.
“Next year’s Georgia recruiting class is going to be one of their smallest in years,” Turner said. “They may only sign 13 players next year and they will only take three [offensive] linemen. So they’ll have to make [offers] count.
“But I’m a little bit surprised that Georgia hasn’t offered because I think he’s heads and tails above of everything that is out there. But I also think they want to be real careful and see exactly who fits their needs.”
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North Gwinnett LB to stay instate
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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North Gwinnett linebacker Donald Maxwell committed to Valdosta State Monday, becoming the sixth Bulldog to declare his college choice.
Maxwell, who can play either strong safety or linebacker, had 52 tackles, five sacks, seven tackles for loss and two forced fumbles in his senior season. He helped North Gwinnett reach the state championship game for the first time.
Maxwell joins teammates cornerback Marquise Quiles (Bowling Green), defensive end Robert Pritchard (Central Florida), defensive end Eric Eberhardt (Wofford), nose tackle Steve Buffington (Tennessee Tech) and linebacker Eloka Anyaorah (Portland State) in declaring his college choice.
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ECI’s Ealey commits to UGA
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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South Carolina was too late.
Florida was even later than that.
“When they called to offer them I had to tell them both they had already committed to Georgia,” said Emanuel County Institute coach Milan Turner.
“They” are top prospects Washaun Ealey and Dexter Moody, the power tandem that led ECI to the state title in 2007. And “they” committed to Georgia last week. In doing so Ealey and Moody became the first Georgia commitments for 2009. Neither Ealey nor Moody could be reached for comment.
“They both grew up die-hard Georgia fans and knew where they wanted to go,” Turner said. “Then they knew that Georgia was going to have a small class because there are not a lot of seniors. That meant one running back and maybe two linebackers. And if you mess around too long that offer might not be there. You have got to be careful.”
The pair was offered two weeks ago, Turner said.
Ealey is a running back with the combination power and speed running. He rushed for 2,982 yards - the third highest total in Georgia high school history - and 58 touchdowns as a junior.
The previous state record was 46 set by former Buford and Notre Dame star Darius Walker. Ealey was named the AJC’s player of the year for his efforts. He was the first junior to receive the award in the 26 years it has been given.
“He is very talented. The best high school player I have seen.” Turner said. “But he is not perfect. He is a typical teenager. Sometimes ball is more important than school.”
Committing early could help with focus when it comes to schoolwork, Turner said. Now that a scholarship is waiting Ealey has a tangible goal to work toward.
“It is just one more thing in the back of his mind that he knows he has got to do right,” Turner said.
Moody is a 6-2, 210-pound linebacker.
“A freak of nature,” Turner said. “He is like a Jevon Kearse.”
Turner said Moody has the frame to either be a big safety or he could put on 20 more pounds and play linebacker at the next level.
Both players were highly sought after. Florida wanted the pair to come to its junior day last week. Turner said once they committed to Georgia they decided not to make the trip.
Likewise, South Carolina’s offer hardly registered with the players.
“Georgia is where they want to be,” Turner said.
VIDEO: Meet AJC Player of the Year Washaun Ealey
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North Gwinnett’s Tamburo to visit Alabama on Saturday
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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North Gwinnett junior Mike Tamburo is expected to be one of the state’s most sought after quarterbacks in the Class of 2009.
The left-handed Tamburo is already drawing interest from programs throughout the nation.
“I don’t have any offers yet, but Texas Tech is supposed to offer me soon,” Tamburo said on Sunday. “And Vanderbilt, Auburn, Florida, Central Florida, Alabama and Clemson have all shown a lot of interest.”
Tamburo has been invited to participate in Elite junior day at Alabama on Feb. 2. The Crimson Tide are on Tamburo’s list of schools he hopes will offer.
“No matter who offers me, Alabama will be one of my top choices,” he said. “I like coach Nick Saban and that whole staff over there.”
Texas would likely become Tamburo’s immediate front-runner if the Longhorns offer the Suwanee southpaw.
“I just like college football in general, but if I had to pick one team it would be Texas,” he said. “They just made a call to my coach recently. They’ve got [assistant coach] Major Applewhite over there.”
As for Georgia and Georgia Tech: “I’m interested in Georgia more than Tech, but I’m interested in both,” Tamburo said.
“I went to the Georgia-Auburn game on a visit last year. When I went there, Georgia told me I was high on their board. But I know they offered some [other juniors] recently.”
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VanGorder never contacted South Carolina recruit
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Banneker safety Darrell Simmons, who committed to South Carolina last fall, said Sunday afternoon he’s never spoken with Brian VanGorder.
VanGorder was introduced as the Gamecocks’ new defensive coordinator on Dec. 19. Nearly a month later, VanGorder bolted South Carolina to rejoin the Atlanta Falcons’ coaching staff.
If VanGorder communicated with any of the incoming defensive recruits during his tenure in Columbia, Simmons wasn’t among the group.
“I really never met him,” said Simmons, who committed to the Gamecocks when Tyrone Nix was in charge of the South Carolina defense. “I didn’t know anything about him.
“But I’m still committed to South Carolina. Nothing’s changed.”
Simmons seemed puzzled that VanGorder never picked up the phone and dialed his number.
“I was surprised because I thought I’d get a call,” he said. “But I never got a call.”
Simmons is confident the Gamecocks are close to being a contender in the SEC, despite the recent turnover at the defensive coordinator position.
“I think we’re a couple of players away from doing some good things at South Carolina,” Simmons said.
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Recruiting roundup
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Thomasville defensive lineman Brandon Thompson will sign with Clemson. The mammoth defensive tackle chose Clemson over LSU …Florida State has landed a commitment from offensive tackle Zebrie Sanders from Northmont, Ohio. Sanders had previously listed Georgia as one of his front-runners…Former Atlanta Falcons coach Bobby Petrino, the new head coach at Arkansas, picked up commitments this weekend from a pair of metro Atlanta players: linebacker Elton Ford of Lithonia and Banneker defensive tackle Alfred Davis…Offensive lineman Kenneth Page of Columbia, S.C., who had expressed interest in Georgia Tech, committed to Clemson on Friday…Buford linebacker/tight end JayTee Swanson has committed to Miami (Ohio). He had also been considering the Air Force Academy…Offensive tackle J.J. Miller, a two-year starter for Buford, plans to sign with Wofford.
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Combine draws future college prospects
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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It’s 10 days before national letters of intent can be signed. Most players going somewhere know where by now. The drama, particularly in Georgia’s case, is over.
But in a nondescript office park off Boggs Road in Gwinnett County, the work has just begun. That’s where the next recruits were Saturday for the Kennedy/CES Combine.
These were the recruits who are looking for scholarships for 2009 or 2010. A full year, or in some cases two, before they can sign letters of intent, they were measured, weighed and clocked.
This was the first step in their journey to Division I-A.
“You want to come here and get your name out there,” said Connor Norman, a junior at Peachtree Ridge. “If you can put up some numbers, then maybe you can get some schools to look at you.”
Norman did just that. The cornerback had the third-fastest 40-yard dash time of the day, a 4.37. He also had a vertical jump of 37 inches and went through the L cone drill in 7.06.
Only a couple of the athletes put up numbers as good or better than Norman’s. Brandon Davis, a late addition who didn’t even make the official rosters of participants, stole the show with 6.78 in the L cone drill, 3.9 in the shuttle drill and 4.46 in the 40.
Like Norman, he doesn’t have any offers yet.
One player who should be getting an offer from Georgia in the next couple of weeks is Jonathan Davis of Tucker. The linebacker posted a 4.37 in the 40.
“We probably have close to 60 Division I-A players here,” said Scott Kennedy, the director of the combine.
They had at least 100 hopefuls. Some were not only racing the clock inside the facility but also racing another one to get here in time.
“I had to take the SAT this morning,” said Brendan Cross, a quarterback from Chattahoochee. “It was $21 to take the make-up test, and I asked my dad if I could do that. He told me no way. He said that was more important than this.”
Dad has a little bit of perspective. He is former San Francisco 49ers center Randy Cross.
The younger Cross made it in plenty of time and posted a solid time of 4.6 in the 40.
Now that those numbers have been posted by the athletes, they will be posted by Kennedy on Scout.com.
“Then any college in the country that might not know Georgia as well as Georgia and Georgia Tech, they’ll get a look at 100 guys this week,” Kennedy said. “So when they’re on the road in the spring, they can have a pretty good idea of who they want to come and see.”
The players also have established numbers they can work toward improving. Take Davis, for instance. He was part of the Scout.com combine in May on the campus of Georgia Tech, where he ran a 4.5 in the 40. He shaved .04 off at this event and will have another chance to lower the number May 3 at the Scout.com combine at Auburn.
“So it’s very important for these guys to get an early start,” Kennedy said. “Even though we’re taking times now, we have got some 16-year-old kids in here when we do this again in May whose times are going to change.
“They’re going to get bigger and faster and stronger,” he said. “This is just a starting point for them.”
This was the starting point for players such as Caleb King (Georgia) and Eric Berry (Tennessee), who participated in the event as sophomores.
Saturday there was a freshman in the group, James Vaughters, a linebacker from Tucker.
“Everybody is working to get noticed,” said Andrew Sachais, a linebacker from Buford. “You just want to let the coaches know that you are out there.”
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Tucker’s Lipscomb leaning toward Auburn commitment
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Tucker defensive back Neiko Lipscomb is expected to commit to Auburn early next week.
Lipscomb had been considering Auburn and Georgia. But an official visit to Athens this weekend didn’t materialize.
“He didn’t [visit Georgia],” Tucker coach Franklin Stephens confirmed early Saturday morning.
“He’s probably going to commit to Auburn.”
Georgia apparently does not have a scholarship remaining to offer Lipscomb.
“I think that’s what has transpired,” Stephens said.
The first-year Tucker coach said there’s not much difference between the two programs.
“Auburn and Georgia are both in the SEC and have a similar situation to offer a kid,” Stephens said. “He’s choosing between two powers in the SEC.”
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Report: Tebow illegally spoke to junior college recruit
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Florida Gators quarterback Tim Tebow on Thursday entered the talk around Florida’s internal review of Coach Urban Meyer’s recruitment of junior-college wide receiver Carl Moore.
A December report in the Sacramento Bee indicates that Moore spoke with Tebow on the telephone the night the UF quarterback won the Heisman Trophy in New York. The report states Moore was at his family’s residence in California when he received the call.
“Carl!” Tebow yelled into the phone, according to the report. “I just won the Heisman! Come on down here (to Florida), and let’s win a national championship.”
The article states that the call was placed by Coach Urban Meyer, who then handed the phone to Tebow. Such a move would violate a portion of NCAA Bylaw 13, which states that college athletes cannot speak to recruits by telephone when directed to by their coaches.
If Tebow placed the call, or Moore phoned Tebow, or Moore phoned Meyer and asked to speak with Tebow, the call likely would be legal. The Gainesville Sun, citing a source on its Web site Thursday, reported that Meyer believes Moore called Tebow after the trophy presentation.
Moore, Tebow and Meyer could not be reached for comment Thursday.
The circumstances surrounding the call could become part of the internal review led by Florida senior associate athletics director for compliance Jamie McCloskey. McCloskey and his staff are determining whether Meyer committed any violations, most of which would be minor, as he recruited Moore to sign with the Gators. The recruitment of first-year UF gymnast Maranda Smith, Moore’s girlfriend, also falls under the review.
McCloskey said Tuesday that the review, which will include a check of telephone records and several personal interviews, might take a few weeks.
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Georgia offers four junior quarterbacks
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Oconee County’s Zach Mettenberger is among four quarterback recruits in the Class of 2009 who received scholarship offers from Georgia last week.
“It’s cool, it’s hometown,” said Mettenberger, who lives about 10 miles from Athens in neighboring Watkinsville. “Getting that offer means I’d get to stay near family and my friends.”
The family reference includes his mother Tammy Mettenberger, who is an administrative assistant in the Georgia football coaches’ office.
Georgia offensive coordinator Mike Bobo delivered the good news to his longtime friend on Jan. 18.
“I had called [Bobo] to see what’s up,” Mettenberger said. “It was our regular monthly call. He told me then.
“Coach Bobo had told me that I was high on their list and he’d been wanting to offer me for awhile. They had a coaches meeting that day and agreed to offer me.”
The 6-foot-5, 220-pound Mettenberger already had offers from Boston College and Florida State.
“And I did have an offer from Ole Miss, but due to the coaching change I don’t have that offer anymore,” he said.
With nearly 13 months ahead of him before he’s scheduled to sign a letter of intent, Mettenberger intends to do plenty of research on Georgia and other colleges prior to making a commitment.
“I plan on taking visits to North Carolina, Duke, Connecticut, Boston College and Northwestern,” he said. “Georgia is above the other schools just because you’ll be near your friends and family.
“But I’m going to try my best not to be biased with that. During my visits, I’ll be looking for what’s best for me.”
Junior quarterbacks who received an offer from UGA on Jan. 18 include Matt Barkley of Mater Dei High in Santa Ana, Calif., Zach Mettenberger of Oconee County in Watkinsville, Aaron Murray of Plant Senior High in Tampa and Tom Savage of Cardinal O’Hara High in Springfield, Penn.
Barkley committed to Southern Cal earlier this week.
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Which recruits are visiting Tech?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Recruits scheduled to visit Georgia Tech prior to national signing day on Feb. 6 include offensive tackle Jared Edwards of Mansfield Timberview High in Arlington, Tex., wide receiver Derek Winter of Plant Senior High in Tampa and Evan Epstein of Bishop Lynch High in Dallas.
Tech is reportedly in the lead for the 6-foot-4, 285-pound Epstein, who is also considering Air Force and California. Epstein has pledged to wait until after completing all visits to make a commitment.
He will visit Air Force on Jan. 25 followed by a trip to Tech the following weekend.
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Tech picks up three commitments
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Georgia Tech has picked up three commitments in the past two days, adding a quarterback, cornerback and offensive tackle. Signing Day, the day players can make their commitments official, is Feb. 6.
Tevin Washington, a 6-1, 205-pound quarterback from Wetumpka High School in Wetumpka, Ala, committed on Sunday, after his official visit. Washington passed for 2,097 yards and 18 touchdowns and rushed for 1,088 yards and 14 touchdowns as a senior. During his career, he passed for more than 5,000 yards and rushed for more than 2,000.
Phil Smith, a 6-6, 280-pound tackle from Jesuit High School in Tampa also committed after his official visit. Smith also played defensive tackle, and had six sacks as a junior, before earning all-county honors as an offensive tackle his senior season.
Lee Butler, a 5-11, 170-pound cornerback with 4.30-second speed, committed on Wednesday. Butler had originally committed to Duke. Butler attends Westside High School in Anderson, S.C. He was being recruited by Duke, Air Force and Furman.
He told Scout.com that he has qualified academically.
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Chamblee’s Loftley picks Vandy over S.C.
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Chamblee defensive lineman Taylor Loftley committed to Vanderbilt on Monday.
His decision came 24 hours after a visit to the Commodores’ Nashville campus.
“I think the team as a whole just seemed like they were together,” Loftley said. “The coaching staff is real close.
“The campus was real nice and Nashville is a great place. Vanderbilt just seemed like they the school most interested in me.”
Loftley had also been considering South Carolina.
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Thomasville’s Thompson down to 2
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Thomasville’s Brandon Thompson, listed on Scout.com as the sixth-best defensive tackle in the Class of 2008, confirmed Tuesday night that he will commit to Clemson or LSU prior to national signing day on Feb. 6.
The 6-foot-2, 295-pound Thompson received visits last week from Clemson coach Tommy Bowden and LSU coach Les Miles.
If Thompson has a front-runner, he wasn’t in the hinting mood Tuesday evening.
“In my mind, both schools are pretty much the same,” Thompson said. “I don’t have a leader.”
Thompson has completed all of his visits. He will give a verbal commitment to either Clemson or LSU by the end of next week.
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Peachtree Ridge QB says yes to Air Force
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Air Force coaches liked how Asher Clark ran Peachtree Ridge’s offense, which is similar in some aspects to the Falcons’ spread option.
They believe he’ll make a smooth transition to quarterback at Air Force.
Clark, who committed earlier this month, is one of four Lions who will sign with D-I programs on Feb. 6. Peachtree Ridge coach Bill Ballard said Air Force head coach Troy Calhoun was impressed with Clark’s ability to absorb a new system and excel in it. Clark had transferred from Duluth after his junior year, as Ballard was taking over at Peachtree Ridge.
“We run the option and kind of a spread package out of the gun, and he was able to come in and pick all that up in one year,” Ballard said of Clark, who carries a 3.92 GPA. “[Calhoun] was impressed with how much he was able to do in one year. They run something similar to what we do, so it’s a good fit.”
Clark also was recruited by Navy, VMI, Bucknell and Ivy League schools.
“I chose Air Force because of the opportunities you have with a degree from Air Force,” he said Wednesday. “It’s a football program on the rise, and I really like the coaches.”
Led by Wesleyan grad Chad Hall, a record-setting running back, Air Force went 9-4 and played in the Armed Forces Bowl. Quarterback Shaun Carney is graduating, meaning Clark can compete for playing time immediately.
Clark helped the Lions to an 8-4 season that ended in the second round of the state playoffs. A 5-8, 180-pounder, Clark proved to be an explosive dual threat. In the 35-28 playoff win at North Cobb, for example, he ran for 79 yards and completed 9-of-12 throws for 186 yards and three touchdowns.
“At the beginning of the season, I didn’t expect it to go as well as it did,” Clark said. “It was just a good move for me and my family, coming over to Peachtree Ridge. It turned out well.”
In addition to Clark, cornerback Derrick Bryant will sign with LSU, cornerback Brandon Sanders with Ole Miss and running back Brandon Davis with Central Florida. Offensive tackle Edixon Pino will play at Georgia Military College, according to Ballard.
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North Cobb’s Roark commits to Kentucky
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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North Cobb quarterback Matt Roark has decided to play college football in the SEC for Kentucky.
“I looked at Kentucky and it was a perfect fit for me offensively with what I can see myself doing,” said Roark, who committed late Tuesday. “I was looking for a place that I’ll have a shot at quarterback or receiver.
“They want me to come in and see if I like quarterback. If not, I’ll play receiver. Hopefully, I’ll play as a freshman. But it’s too early to really know.”
Ray Gover, Roark’s father, played football for Kentucky. But Roark claims he wasn’t persuaded by his dad to commit to the Wildcats.
“He totally left it up to me,” Roark said. “He told me good stuff and bad stuff about that school. He wanted me to make my own decision.”
Roark, who had previously listed the Wildcats, Duke, Georgia Tech, Illinois, Oregon and Wake Forest as his candidates, admitted Wednesday evening that the Yellow Jackets were never a front-runner.
“Georgia Tech was never leading,” he said. “I wasn’t ever too serious about going there.”
North Gwinnett recruiting update
North Gwinnett senior linebacker Eloka Anyaorah has committed to Portland State, a I-AA school coached by former Atlanta Falcons head coach Jerry Glanville.
Anyaorah had 86 tackles and 9.5 sacks in helping the Bulldogs reach the state championship game.
He became the fifth North Gwinnett senior to commit, joining defensive end Robert Pritchard (Central Florida), cornerback Marquise Quiles (Bowling Green), nose tackle Steve Buffington (Tennessee Tech) and defensive end Eric Eberhardt (Wofford).
Briefly
Marist running back/defensive back Derek Heyden has committed to Georgia Southern. His teammate, Jordan Phillips, will sign with Amherst.
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Gators now atop Rivals.com’s rankings
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Omar Hunter’s commitment has moved Florida up to No. 1 in the recruiting rankings by Rivals.com.
Hunter, a defensive tackle from Buford High, committed to the Gators on Tuesday, a few days after taking an official visit to Gainesville. Hunter was supposed to visit Georgia this weekend, but canceled the trip.
The Gators are No. 1 in Rivals’ rankings, followed by Notre Dame, Alabama, Georgia and Florida State.
Scout.com has Notre Dame No. 1, followed by Alabama, Georgia, Miami and Texas A&M.
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Ohio State’s Tressel recruits in Georgia
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Gainesville defensive end Keith Wells received an in-school and in-home visit from Ohio State coach Jim Tressel on Tuesday.
“It was a really, really good experience for me,” Wells said. “Over the past couple of months, Coach Tressel [and I] have grown together.
“Out of all the coaches I’ve talked to, he’s probably one of the most genuine guys I’ve met. He’s definitely a person to meet.”
The 6-foot-5, 215-pound Wells, who originally committed to Florida State in August, confirmed Tuesday evening that he will choose between Ohio State and Tennessee in just over a week.
“I’m actually going to commit next week, probably Thursday or Friday,” he said. “It’ll be between Ohio State and Tennessee.
“I’ll evaluate and keep asking all the questions I can ask.”
Wells, who visited the Buckeyes in early December, enjoyed a successful trip to Knoxville last weekend.
“Tennessee has a legacy of winning, and I definitely like that,” Wells said. “They’re a solid program and I have an opportunity to play there.
“They have about three real defensive ends, and two of them are seniors. I could go in and make an impact as a freshman.
“It’s not too far away from home, but distance isn’t an issue. They have a great tradition of defensive ends coming out of that school. The visit to Tennessee was probably my best visit.”
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Hunter spurns UGA for The Swamp
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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So much for Georgia’s late pursuit of Omar Hunter. The Buford defensive tackle is headed for The Swamp.
Hunter, one of the top-rated players in the country at his position, scrapped plans to visit Athens this weekend and said Tuesday he will commit to Florida.
The Gators had been the favorite to land Hunter since he de-committed from Notre Dame earlier this month. A visit to Gainesville last weekend convinced Hunter that’s where he wants to be.
“Florida is a great place,” Hunter said. “I love the coaches, the players and the recruits coming in with me. I just fell in love with Florida.”
Georgia expressed interest in Hunter in recent weeks but apparently did not have room for him. He said the Dogs could only offer him a scholarship if another recruit de-committed or was ruled academically ineligible.
There have been academic concerns about Georgia recruit DeAngelo Tyson, a defensive tackle from Statesboro. And even if running back Xavier Avery signs with the Dogs, the Cedar Grove senior might forego college to pursue a pro baseball career.
Still, Florida had a guaranteed spot for Hunter, and he didn’t want to wait on Georgia.
“I went in last weekend looking at Florida and Georgia,” Hunter said. “They were two outstanding schools, and I really loved them both. But unfortunately, Georgia didn’t have a scholarship. It was just bad timing for Georgia.”
At 6-foot-1 and 311 pounds, Hunter anchored a defense that allowed just 4.4 points per game last year. He helped Buford win the Class AA state championship and was named defensive player of the year by the AJC Gwinnett News.
Hunter was set to attend Notre Dame after committing to the school last June, but his recruitment became open question over the past two months. In December, he expressed doubts about the Irish, which finished just 3-9 in 2007. In early January, he backed out on the Irish and said he was considering Florida, Southern California and Auburn. And finally, it came down to Florida and Georgia.
The Gators wooed Buford linebacker T.J. Pridemore during a Jan. 12 visit, and did the same with Hunter last weekend. Highlights of the visit included dinner at coach Urban Meyer’s house and attending a Florida basketball game.
When asked what part of the trip swayed his decision the most, though, Hunter said, “Probably getting to hang out with [Heisman trophy winner] Tim Tebow and the other recruits and getting to know those guys. It just felt like the right place.”
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Recruiters swarm to Roswell
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Roswell coach Tim McFarlin said he is busier these days than he was during football season, which is hard to imagine until finding out why.
For the first time in school history, Roswell is projected to lead the state in the number of players (six to eight) who will sign major-college scholarships.
“You have no idea, ” McFarlin said. “As much as I enjoy people, I rarely get to eat lunch and dinner these days. It’s just nonstop, meeting coaches at school, returning phone calls from coaches. … I could work until midnight and still not be caught up.
“It’s just the way it works this time of year. Everyone thinks football is over when the season ends. It’s not over at all.”
McFarlin said he’s not complaining and is very happy for his seniors. But he also admits national signing day (Feb. 6) won’t come soon enough. Five Hornets have committed: linebacker Ebele Okakpu (North Carolina); wide receiver Garrett Embry (Oregon); tailback Alex Daniel (Northwestern); defensive tackle Curtis Hazelton (Duke); and cornerback Dominique Wheeler (Butler Jr. College).
Hazelton picked Duke a few months ago, but opened up his recruiting again after Duke’s coaching staff was fired. He then decided to go back to the Blue Devils after David Cutcliffe was hired.
Four other players will make college decisions in the next three weeks:
Dustin Taliaferro: The quarterback has 11 offers, including Southern Miss, Tulane and East Carolina, along with three Ivy League schools. Duke, Louisville and Alabama-Birmingham also have shown recent interest.
Zack Waddell: The linebacker appears to be favoring Air Force over offers from Louisiana-LaFayette, Murray State and Western Carolina.
Jim Broadway: The kicker has offers from Navy, Georgia Southern, Western Carolina and Chattanooga. He is still waiting to hear back from Georgia Tech, while N.C. State has discussed a walk-on status.
Lavelle Larry: He can play safety or tailback and has offers from Louisville, Georgia Southern and Alabama A&M.
- Staff writer Michael Carvell contributed to this report
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Down to Auburn, UGA for Lipscomb
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Tucker defensive back Neiko Lipscomb, who is coming off a visit to Auburn, hopes a trip to Georgia will materialize this weekend.
“I’m still waiting to find out about Georgia,” Tucker coach Franklin Stephens said Tuesday night. “Neiko went to Auburn last weekend and had a good visit.
“We’ll see what transpires with Georgia.”
The recent loss of Auburn defensive coordinator Will Muschamp, who now coaches at Texas, may have an impact on whether Lipscomb commits to the Tigers.
“I think recruits have to deal with relationships,” Stephens said. “And Muschamp was more than the defensive coordinator. He was the coach from Auburn that was recruiting Neiko.”
The 6-foot-1 Lipscomb could be a nice addition to the Dogs’ secondary. But with national signing day two weeks away, does Georgia have a scholarship remaining for Lipscomb?
Stephens believes the Dogs will make a run at his talented defensive back.
“I think Auburn and Georgia have a lot to offer, both academically and athletically,” Stephens said. “He’s going to have an opportunity to play on a very good football team.
“He has a hard decision to make. He’s choosing between two top-flight colleges.”
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Hunter “feeling good” about Florida
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Less than a month after de-committing to Notre Dame, Buford defensive lineman Omar Hunter may have found a new college football home in The Swamp.
Florida utilized plenty of star power on Hunter, rated the second-best defensive tackle in the Class of 2008 by Scout.com, during his visit to Gainesville over the weekend.
“It was awesome, it was great,” Hunter said Monday evening. “A bunch of the recruits went to coach [Urban] Meyer’s home and went to dinner. I had [Heisman trophy winner] Tim Tebow as one of my hosts.
“On Saturday, we went to the basketball game. I got to hang out with a lot of the recruits.
“Coach Meyer was simply awesome.”
So is Hunter thinking of canceling this weekend’s visit to Georgia and committing to Florida?
“I am feeling good about the Gators,” Hunter said.
Permalink | Comments (55) | Categories: Florida, UGA
Wilcox County’s Dennard picks UNC
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Considered one of the top athletes in the state, Wilcox County cornerback Alphonzo Dennard committed to North Carolina on Sunday.
Dennard, who was recruited as a defensive back by coach Butch Davis’ staff, could see some action on offense in Chapel Hill.
“It’s all about the coaching staff and coach Butch Davis,” said Dennard, when asked to pinpoint what sold him on the Tar Heels. “He’s a great coach. And their graduation rate there is good.
“And I love the campus. I’ve never seen a stadium quite like that one. It sits in the middle of campus. It’s a beautiful place.”
The 5-foot-11, 197-pound Dennard is content to play in the Heels’ secondary, but isn’t opposed to a call to play on offense.
“I think I’ll play cornerback, but the offensive coordinator wants me to play receiver,” he said.
Dennard chose North Carolina over Clemson and Troy.
“It was a tough decision,” he admitted.
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Avery visits Georgia
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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A professional baseball career continues to be a distinct possibility for Georgia-bound running back Xavier Avery of Cedar Grove.
Avery’s official visit to Georgia this weekend was cut short after he departed Athens late Saturday to be in Suwanee on Sunday for an invitation-only event at Chipper Jones’ 10th Inning Baseball Academy.
“Xavier had a good visit,” Avery’s father, Theophilus Griffin Jr. said Sunday evening. “We went to Athens on Friday and I dropped him off at [Georgia coach] Mark Richt’s house. They were having a meeting [with the recruits visiting Georgia].
“Then they went to the Arkansas basketball game on Saturday.”
Pro baseball aside, Avery may not be a lock to sign with Georgia on Feb. 6. Schools such as Oklahoma and Stanford continue to court Avery.
“[Oklahoma coach] Bob Stoops was at Xavier’s school on Friday to see his teammate, Josh Jarboe [who has committed to the Sooners],” Griffin said. “Stoops was putting some pressure on [Xavier] on Friday.
“And Stanford has indicated he could start much quicker for them because they don’t have much speed in the secondary.”
But Avery, who is scheduled to play football and baseball at Georgia if he signs with the Dogs next month, may have put on a set of shoulder pads and football helmet for the final time.
Griffin hinted that his son will be a lock to turn pro if he is a first or early second-round pick in June’s major league baseball draft.
“And I kind of get the feeling that baseball is going to draft him high,” Griffin said. “Scouts from the Phillies, Padres, Pirates, Dodgers, Yankees and Royals have all come to our house.”
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Stone Mountain WR to Troy
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Stone Mountain receiver Charles Reeves Jr. has committed to Troy.
“I like the family atmosphere at Troy and the fact they try to make big plays,” said Reeves, who was also considering Tennessee. “The campus is nice and they just received new equipment for what I’m trying to major in, which is music production.”
Reeves, who caught 43 passes for 736 yards and three touchdowns in nine games during his senior season, is expected to be part of Troy’s offense as a freshman.
“I will play at receiver as a freshman and will returns punts and kickoffs,” said Reeves, who will wear jersey No. 3 this fall.
Kopacka commits to Air Force
Blessed Trinity tight end Ben Kopacka has elected to play college football for the Air Force Academy.
“When I went out there to visit, I was considering an offer from Samford,” Kopacka said. “I also had offers from Navy and Army. I had said from the beginning that I’d check out one of them.
“I got out there to Colorado Springs and was blown away. Air Force has a great coaching staff. And I really think in the next few years that program is going somewhere, and I want to be part of that.”
More commitments as Feb. 6 signing day approaches
Stockbridge quarterback Tyler Bass committed to Maryland over the weekend… Chattahoochee defensive tackle Justin Smith has apparently withdrawn his commitment to Arkansas and will follow former Razorbacks coach Houston Nutt to Ole Miss…Grady linebacker Darryl Farley intends to sign with Tulane…Austin Wilson, a tight end for Mill Creek, has committed to the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga…Wesleyan running back Derren Evans intends to sign a letter of intent with Presbyterian College.
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Uzzi meet new Tech coach
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Fresh off a visit to Alabama, Chamblee offensive lineman Omoregie Uzzi stayed closer to home this weekend by taking an official visit to Georgia Tech.
“I liked it a lot,” said Uzzi, who will visit Virginia on Jan. 25. “I got to meet coach [Paul] Johnson. He’s a good guy. I could see myself playing there for him.”
Uzzi said he hopes to announce his college choice following his trip to Charlottesville next weekend.
In the interim, Uzzi claims there is no front-runner between Alabama, Georgia Tech and Virginia.
“They’re all even,” he said.
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Bowden buzzes Thomasville
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Thomasville defensive lineman Brandon Thompson, one of the remaining uncommitted jewels in the Class of 2008, received an in-school and in-home visit on Thursday from Clemson coach Tommy Bowden.
“When somebody like coach Bowden shows up, I think it intrigues some of our younger players that feel like maybe they have an opportunity to be in that position one day,” Thomasville coach Richie Marsh said. “Hopefully, it will have an effect on the players behind [Brandon].”
Thompson is expected to choose between Clemson, Florida State, LSU and Tennessee.
He is high on Clemson’s wish list.
“I think Clemson is in big time need of a defensive end,” Marsh said.
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Duke interested in Roswell QB
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Duke may be on the verge of extending a scholarship offer to Roswell quarterback Dustin Taliaferro.
“He’s hoping for an offer from Duke,” Roswell coach Tim McFarlin said. “They were with us [on Thursday] evaluating, watching film and talking to him. That’s where he’ll go if he’s offered.
“He’s got several offers from Ivy League schools. Penn would be at the top of that list.”
Roswell kicker Jim Broadway could commit as early as Friday.
“He’s been offered by Navy and some I-AA programs,” McFarlin said. “But he’s holding off because Miami (Ohio) has come in and will let me know [if they will offer]. I’ll know [on Friday].
“If they do offer, that’s where he’ll go.”
Roswell linebacker Zack Waddell plans to visit one of the military academies this weekend.
“Zack has lots of offers,” McFarlin said. “He’s going to visit the Air Force Academy. That’s a strong one.
“He’s also considering Western Carolina.”
Heard still weighing Kentucky offer
Mays’ receiver Corey Heard continues to debate whether to accept a scholarship offer from Kentucky.
“I’m leaning toward the Wildcats,” Heard said. “But I’m kind of waiting until signing day to decide.
“I’m trying to see about other offers, but I do like Kentucky. I’ve been hearing from Illinois and Georgia Tech.”
Stockbridge recruiting update
Commitments from Stockbridge include running backs Vance King (Central Florida) and Rashad White (Ball State).
Quarterback Tyler Bass is considering Colorado State, East Carolina, Kentucky, Louisville, Maryland, Memphis and Western Kentucky. He visited Louisville last weekend and is scheduled to travel to Maryland later this week.
Defensive lineman Randy Salmon is considering Georgia Southern, Louisville, Southern Miss and several JUCO programs.
Strong safety Rickie Hubbard will likely choose between North Carolina Central and Middle Tennessee State. Linebacker Trey Powell appears set to pick between Alabama A&M and North Carolina Central.
Bucknell and Virginia Military Institute are the favorites to sign offensive lineman D’Angelo Smith. His teammate, Darius Brown, is considering Alabama A&M, Tusculum and Winston Salem State.
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UGA No. 3 in Rivals’ list; Top recruits on display
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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No. 3 on the field, No. 3 off it.
That’s the latest on Georgia, which occupies the same position in Rivals.com’s new recruiting rankings as it did in the final USA Today coaches poll.
The Bulldogs, who’d reached as high as No. 2 in Rivals’ rankings, now trail No. 1 Notre Dame and No. 2 Alabama with less than three weeks to go until national signing day.
Any chance UGA makes a late push for the No. 1 spot? Yes, says Rivals editor in chief Bobby Burton. But it’s a long shot.
“[Buford lineman] Omar Hunter is about the only the player that could really move them up,” Burton told ajc.com’s recruiting blog. “I think you’re talking about a possible top-five finish and definite top 10.”
Mark Richt & Co. have already secured 25 commitments. UGA’s class includes:
— Two five-star recruits: Summerville (S.C.) High wide receiver A.J. Green, the No. 9 overall player in Rivals’ new individual rankings, and Cartersville Cass running back/linebacker Richard Samuel, who’s No. 24 overall.
— Fourteen four-star recruits.
— Eight three-star recruits.
Notre Dame leads the way with three five-star players. The Irish had four before Hunter (No. 17 overall) backed out of his commitment to Charlie Weis.
Georgia Tech is 47th in Rivals’ rankings.
The top 50:
1.Notre Dame
2.Alabama
3.Georgia
4.Florida
5.Miami
6.Ohio State
7.Oklahoma
8.Florida State
9.UCLA
10.Texas
11.LSU
12.Michigan
13.Southern Cal
14.Texas A&M
15.Auburn
16.Virginia Tech
17.Clemson
18.Pittsburgh
19.Illinois
20.Arizona State
21.Colorado
22.South Carolina
23.Minnesota
24.Missouri
25.Oklahoma State
26.Boston College
27.Washington
28.Oregon
29.Maryland
30.Nebraska
31.Arizona
32.California
33.Kansas State
34.Arkansas
35.Wisconsin
36.N.C. State
37.Penn State
38.Kansas
39.Texas Tech
40.Michigan State
41.Tennessee
42.North Carolina
43.Mississippi State
44.Rutgers
45.Stanford
46.West Virginia
47.Georgia Tech
48.Syracuse
- Ole Miss
50.Iowa
And the top 10 recruits, according to Rivals:
1.Terrelle Pryor, QB, Jeannette (Pa.) High: Undecided
2.DaQuan Bowers, DE, Bamberg (S.C.) Bamberg-Ehrhardt: Committed to Clemson
3.Mike Adams, OL, Dublin (Ohio) Coffman: Committed to Ohio State
4.Julio Jones, WR, Foley (Ala.) High: Undecided
5.Patrick Johnson, CB, Pompano Beach (Fla.) Ely: Committed to LSU
6.Darrell Scott, RB, Ventura (Calif.) St. Bonaventure: Undecided
7.Marcus Forston, DT, Miami Northwestern: Committed to Miami
8.Baker Steinkuhler, OL, Lincoln (Neb.) Southwest: Committed to Nebraska
9.A.J. Green, WR, Summerville (S.C.) High: Committed to Georgia
10.Will Hill, ATH, Jersey City (N.J.) St. Peter’s Prep: Committed to Florida
Stars out in DeKalb
Some of the top recruits in Georgia will have their final chance to impress college scouts during Thursday night’s DeKalb County Coaches Association All-Star Football Game.
The contest, scheduled to be played at James Hallford Stadium, will feature seniors from DeKalb County’s 19 high schools along with players from Decatur, Marist and St. Pius.
M.L. King’s Corey Jarvis will coach the West squad, while Franklin Stephens of Tucker will call the shots on the East sideline.
Kickoff is at 7 p.m. Admission is $5 per person.
ROSTER
East All-Star Team
Lane Pace Clarkston
Leonard Benton Clarkston
Kenneth Harris Columbia
Taurean Rhodes Columbia
Chris Holloway Columbia
Chris Sams Decatur
Mason Wray Decatur
Leon Williams Druid Hills
Taaluwt Lee Druid Hills
Willie Fuller Lithonia
Jordan Shepherd McNair
Terrance Wiggs McNair
Cesary Wilborn McNair
D`Ordrick Boykin McNair
Idris Wazeerud-din McNair
Joshua Walker Miller Grove
Jerry Carter Miller Grove
Cory McCutchen Stephenson
Michael Johnson Stephenson
Jared Clendenin Stephenson
Clarence Young Stephenson
Ahmed Abdul-Shakoor Stephenson
Max Regis Stephenson
Anthony Coleman SWD
Brandon Jones SWD
Quentin Upshur SWD
James Woods SWD
Manley Waller SWD
Carlos Perrymond Towers
Kenji Person Towers
Chris Bearden Towers
Adam Byars Towers
Tavaris Jackson Towers
E.J. Terry Towers
Jamoris Slaughter Tucker
Neiko Lipscomb Tucker
Robert Jones Tucker
Derrick Harris Tucker
Tristan Carter Tucker
Marcus Clark Tucker
West All-Star Team
Antonio Scott Avondale
Greg Boyd Avondale
Phanna Rattanak Avondale
Trence Harvey Cedar Grove
Gerald Rivers Cedar Grove
Malcolm Beyah Chamblee
Ryan Smith Chamblee
Taylor Loftley Chamblee
Omoregie Uzzi Chamblee
Raymond Clopton Cross Keys
Rosler Mason Cross Keys
Corey White Dunwoody
Cameron Ford Dunwoody
Steven Turnbull Lakeside
Chase Sitten Lakeside
Pati Siamomua Lakeside
Cordellaro Jones M.L. King Jr.
Daniel McKayahan M.L. King Jr.
Sean Smith M.L. King Jr.
Tyran Golden M.L. King Jr.
Jarad Dorsey M.L. King Jr.
Lyndrez Leslie M.L. King Jr.
Kami Warner M.L. King Jr.
Kevin Lalor M.L. King Jr.
Xavier Morgan M.L. King Jr.
Darryn Davis M.L. King Jr.
Aaron Hawkins M.L. King Jr.
Xavier Robinson M.L. King Jr.
Derek Hayden Marist
Joe Bailey Marist
Brandon White Redan
Andrerius Thomas Redan
Jerame Williams Redan
Jovantay Williams Redan
Kelvin Turner Redan
Chris Philpott St. Pius
Kent Cleveland St. Pius
Charles Reeves Stone Mountain
Rodney Thomas Stone Mountain
Edward Davis Stone Mountain
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Harmon feeling good about UGA
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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After spending the past several months committed to Clemson, Jefferson County offensive lineman A.J. Harmon is confident he made the correct decision nearly two weeks ago to switch his commitment to Georgia during the U.S. Army All-American Bowl in San Antonio.
“I feel really good about it,” Harmon said Tuesday evening. “I’m excited to be going up there to play for coach [Mark] Richt and join [other recruits] like DeAngelo Tyson, Sanders Commings and all of the top players.”
Harmon said there has been little backlash from Clemson coaches over his decision to sign with Georgia in February.
“They understand the whole recruiting process thing,” Harmon said. “They told me if I ever change my mind to call over there and let them know.”
Harmon’s claims the fact Georgia has a chance to enter the upcoming season ranked as the No. 1 team in the nation had little influence on his decision.
“Not really,” he said. “My parents felt comfortable with me going to Georgia. My mom and dad said they want me to be a Georgia Bulldog.
“I’m just happy, the community is happy and my school is happy for me.”
Georgia coaches have told Harmon the amount of playing time he sees this fall will primarily hinge on his conditioning.
“They say if I’m in shape and how I progress, that’s the main thing,” he said of potential playing time. “My freshman year I’m looking forward to learning and feeling real comfortable about the program.”
Permalink | Comments (51) | Categories: Clemson, UGA
N. Gwinnett DB going D-I
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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North Gwinnett defensive back Marquese Quiles, who led Gwinnett County with seven interceptions and six blocked kicks, has committed to Bowling Green.
The 5-11, 165-pound senior also had offers from Air Force and Western Michigan.
“Bowling Green is a good program, I was there over the weekend and they treated me well,” Quiles said Tuesday.
A first-team all-county selection, Quiles had a breakout season for the 13-2 Bulldogs. He finished with 59 tackles, six passes broken up and three forced fumbles. He also returned a blocked punt for a touchdown.
“He was a difference-maker for us this year,” North Gwinnett coach Bob Sphire said.
Quiles attributed his improvement to an offseason workout program that made him faster and stronger.
“I dedicated myself to the program, put all my trust in the coaches, and it came out well,” Quiles said.
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White commits to Ball State
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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A weekend visit to Ball State was enough to convince Stockbridge running back Rashad White to commit to the Cardinal’s program.
“I really liked that they wanted me to come in and play early and play as a freshman,” White said. “I liked the atmosphere, the players and the coaches up there.”
The 5-foot-8, 205-pound White, who chose Ball State over Miami (Ohio), Middle Tennessee State and Western Kentucky, wound up committing during his visit to the Muncie, Ind. campus on Saturday.
“I thought I was going to commit before I got there,” White admitted Tuesday night.
Bass not only recruit at Stockbridge
Most folks in recruiting circles know about Stockbridge’s Tyler Bass, the run/pass threat at quarterback who’s being recruited by several schools, including Louisville (where he visited last weekend) and Maryland (where he has a visit scheduled for this weekend).
But the Tigers have several players who will move on to the next level in the fall.
According to head coach Steve Collins, running back Vance King has committed to Central Florida, where he will look to step into the shoes of record-setting junior running back Kevin Smith, who has declared that he will enter the NFL draft.
Meanwhile, five other Stockbridge players are being recruited by Div. I, I-AA and Div. II schools — defensive lineman Randy Salmon (Louisville, Southern Miss and Georgia Southern), defensive back Rickie Hubbard (North Carolina Central and Middle Tennessee), linebacker Trey Powell (North Carolina Central and Alabama A&M), and offensive linemen D’Angelo Smith (VMI and Bucknell) and Darius Brown (Alabama A&M, Tusculum and Winston Salem State).
Gwinnett recruiting update
Two more Gwinnett County standouts have decided where they’ll play college football.
Mill Creek tight end Austin Wilson, voted tight end of the year by the Gwinnett Touchdown Club, has committed to Tennessee-Chattanooga.
Dacula offensive tackle Calvin Cantrell, a first-team all-county selection, has committed to Wofford.
Cantrell joins North Gwinnett defensive end Eric Eberhardt, who committed to Wofford last week.
- Staff writers Seth Coleman and Larry Hartstein contributed to this report
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Gators out, Eagles in for Green
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A potential academic issue will prevent Jenkins running back Franklin Green from signing with Florida in February.
Green will instead enroll at Georgia Southern.
“Grades could have been an issue,” said Green, whose last communication with Florida coaches was nearly two months ago. “But I think I felt more comfortable at a school like Georgia Southern. And I wanted to be closer to home.”
Green said he’s eager to play for the Eagles.
“I like the coaches there and I think we can win a national championship,” he said.
North Gwinnett’s Eberhardt announces commitment
North Gwinnett senior defensive end Eric Eberhardt committed to Wofford last week.
The all-county player led the Bulldogs with 13 sacks and helped North Gwinnett (13-2) reach the Class AAAAA championship game.
“They’re getting a kid with a great motor, with great passion for the game, who’s a great leader,” coach Bob Sphire said.
“He’s a really outstanding athlete for a down lineman, and if needed could even move to linebacker. But they recruited him as a defensive lineman.”
- Staff writer Larry Hartstein contributed to this report
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Byrd connects with the ol’ ball coach
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One look was all it took for Callaway’s Ronald Byrd Jr.
South Carolina played host to the 6-foot-6, 260-pound lineman over the weekend. Before returning to Hogansville, Byrd committed to the Gamecocks.
“Their program is on the rise,” Byrd said Monday of his future football home. “They haven’t reached their peak. They should be at the top of their game in about two or three years. I want to be there when they arrive.”
Byrd’s weekend stay included a visit with South Carolina coach Steve Spurrier.
“He asked me plain and simple ‘are you here with us?’” Byrd said. “I told him ‘yes.’”
Byrd’s interest in the Gamecocks began in earnest after Spurrier made a stop at Callaway last fall.
“It meant he was really interested in me,” Byrd said. “It surprise me actually that he came. It was an honor for him to come to my school.
“He’s an excellent football coach. I want to play for him. He’s a winner.”
Byrd chose the Gamecocks over Arkansas, Indiana, Louisville, Ole Miss Purdue and Troy. He is projected to play defensive end or tight end for South Carolina.
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Pridemore commits to Florida
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Less than a week after withdrawing his commitment to Georgia Tech, Buford linebacker T.J. Pridemore has decided to become a Florida Gator.
An integral part of the class AA state champion Buford defense, Pridemore spent the weekend touring the Gators’ campus in Gainesville.
“I committed to [Florida] coach Urban Meyer Saturday night,” Pridemore told Scout.com. “They have the best combination of athletics and academics in the country and it makes winners on the field.”
When contacted Sunday night, Pridemore refused to answer questions concerning his commitment to Florida. Pridemore said he plans to make a recruiting-related announcement on two television programs on Wednesday.
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Uzzi still interested in Tech
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Chamblee offensive lineman Omoregie Uzzi, considered the 13th-best guard in the Class of 2008 by Scout.com, has narrowed the list of schools he is considering to two.
“It’s going to be Alabama or Georgia Tech,” Chamblee coach Jim Showfety said Sunday evening. “He’s at Alabama this weekend and he’s going to Georgia Tech next weekend.
“He might take a visit to Virginia, but they’re a longshot.”
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Florida rejects commitment from Sanders
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Zebrie Sanders’ plan to choose between Florida and Georgia this weekend has hit an unexpected snag.
The 6-foot-6, 270-pound offensive tackle from Northmont High in Clayton, Oh. was set to commit to the Gators on Sunday.
But the lack of scholarships available in Gainesville for offensive linemen has Sanders looking elsewhere for a place to play college football.
“The school that Zebrie was going to commit to called and informed him they no longer have slots available,” said Sanders’ father Vincent Sanders. “It was a disappointing situation for him. He had told that school to hold a spot for him when he went on a visit there.
“And Zebrie had already called all the other coaches and told them he appreciated the experience, but he wanted to go elsewhere. Needless to say, now he feels like he has egg on his face.”
Sanders’ opportunity to commit to the Gators apparently slipped away this week after Florida accepted commitments from offensive linemen Ricky Barnum of Lakeland, Fl. and Matt Patchan of Seffner, Fl.
Georgia is in a situation similar to the Gators. The Dogs are tapped out on the total number of scholarships it has remaining for the current recruiting class.
“I have not talked to the people at Georgia,” Vincent Sanders said. “They told Zebrie if anything comes open they will contact him.”
Florida State and UCLA now appear to be Sanders’ new front-runners.
“He may take an official visit to FSU; he may take an official to UCLA,” Vincent Sanders said. “He’s going to go where they want him.”
Vincent Sanders was still stinging Saturday night from the disappointing news.
“As his dad, I was hurt,” he said. “When a head coach tells you ‘you’re a part of our school’ and then everybody backs away from you, how am I supposed to feel?
“I’m not interested in bashing anybody. I’m just telling you what happened.
“Zebrie is just fortunate enough that some other doors are still open.”
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Lipscomb odd man out at UGA?
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Auburn, Georgia and Michigan State are the front-runners for Tucker defensive back Neiko Lipscomb, a participant in last weekend’s Under Armour All-American game at Disney World.
Lipscomb is expected to take his first official visit on Jan. 18.
“He’s getting ready to take visits,” Tucker coach Franklin Stephens said Thursday evening. “He’ll probably announce [a commitment] after he takes the visits.”
The lack of available scholarships at Georgia could be an issue for Lipscomb, if he’s hoping to spend the next four years playing football at Sanford Stadium.
“I’ve tried to called [Georgia assistant] coach [Rodney] Garner to see if they are filled up,” Stephens said. “I haven’t been able to talk to him about it.”
And the recent departure of Auburn defensive coordinator Will Muschamp could throw a wrench into Lipscomb’s plans to commit to the Tigers.
“I think he’s very interested in Auburn,” Stephens said. “But coach Muschamp left. I don’t know how that will affect him.”
At face value, Michigan State would appear to be the longshot.
But Lipscomb lived in Michigan until he turned six.
“He has family in Michigan,” Stephens said. “That’s the tie.”
Regardless of where he commits, Stephens believes Lipscomb will be a standout on the college platform.
“I think the thing about Neiko is his potential is unlimited,” he said. “I believe it’s a rarity these days that you have a 6-foot-2 cornerback in football.
“We’re seeing huge receivers who are 6-foot-4, 6-foot-5 and 6-foot-6. You just don’t see many 6-foot-2 cornerbacks like Neiko.
“He’s an athlete and a rangy kid who can cover a lot of ground. Those kids are hard to find.”
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Stone Mountain’s Reeves down to 2
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In a modern day case of David versus Goliath, Tennessee and Troy are the finalists for Stone Mountain receiver Charles Reeves Jr.
Reeves will visit Troy, Tennessee and Ole Miss this month before announcing his choice.
His first trip to Troy will occur this weekend. He’s already visited Tennessee on five occasions.
“Troy and Tennessee are the same to me,” Reeves said. “Tennessee’s campus is bigger, that’s the only difference.”
Reeves claims he won’t be tempted to commit to the Troy during his stay this weekend.
“I’m not,” he said. “I’ll make my decision on signing day [on Feb. 6].”
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Injury update on ND-bound Slaughter
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Tucker defensive back Jamoris Slaughter’s experience during last week’s Under Armour All-America festivities at Disney World turned sour after he suffered a small meniscus tear during practice for Saturday’s game.
“I’m doing better,” Slaughter said Wednesday evening. “I’m walking real good now. I’m going to the doctor on Monday.
“I will probably have to get a scope surgery .”
Slaughter, who committed to Notre Dame last summer, has been in touch with his future coaches in South Bend, Ind.
“I’ve talked to them and they were just like ‘go and get the surgery, get healed and do the rehab,’” he said.
Watching the all-star contest on Saturday from the sidelines was just as painful as the injury itself.
“I stayed and watched the game and it was tough,” Slaughter said. “I know a lot of the players. They felt for me. A lot of them came up and said ‘I know you want to play.’
“I told them ‘go out and do it for me.’”
Slaughter, who anticipates a full recovery from the injury in about two months, said he’s ecstatic with Notre Dame’s current recruiting class, which lost a commitment from Buford defensive lineman Omar Hunter last week.
“I’ve got a real good feeling about everybody coming in and the players already up there,” Slaughter said. “I feel we’ve got some bright things going for the future at Notre Dame.”
While Florida is viewed as the odds-on favorite to land a commitment from Hunter, rumors began to swirl on Wednesday that Georgia is making a late push for the talented lineman.
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Offers mount for Henry Co. junior
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The scholarship offers are beginning to roll in for Henry County junior receiver Jamal Patterson.
The 6-foot-2, 190-pound Patterson has offers from Central Florida, North Carolina, Troy, Purdue and South Carolina.
He’s hoping to add offers from Georgia and Georgia Tech to his recruiting portfolio.
“I get mail from Tech and Georgia everyday,” Patterson said.
On Tech: “It’s in the city and near home,” he said. “It’d be special to have a degree from Georgia Tech. I still haven’t talked to coach [Paul] Johnson.
On Georgia: “They’ve invited me to Georgia junior day,” he said. “I love everything about Athens. I love the city, the team and the program. I know some players who have committed there and some players on the team. It would be amazing to get an offer from Georgia.”
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Tech commit Reid sets three visits
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Rashaad Reid, a cornerback from St. Augustine (Fl.) who committed to Georgia Tech in August, plans to visit Central Florida this weekend.
He’ll travel to N.C. State on Jan. 18, followed by a visit to South Florida the next weekend.
“I am still committed [to Tech], but I want to explore my other options right now,” Reid told Scout.com.
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Wells not happy with FSU
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Gainesville defensive end Keith Wells appeared a lock to sign with Florida State in February following a commitment announcement at his school last summer.
But the 6-foot-5, 270-pound Wells now appears determined to spend the next four weeks testing the waters around the ACC and SEC.
“Right now, I’d say I will visit Tennessee, Miami and FSU,” Wells said. “And if anyone falls through, I’ve got schools like Clemson, Notre Dame and Alabama.
“I’m still not exactly sure which remaining three visits I’ll take. More than likely it will be FSU. If not this weekend, it’ll be my last visit. I’ll probably go to Tennessee next weekend and Miami on Jan. 25.”
Florida State’s prospects of regaining ground with Wells might be as simple as picking up a telephone.
“They’re not communicating with me a lot,” Wells said. “I guess they’re just wanting to see what I’m going to do. Me and the guy who was recruiting me at FSU just haven’t communicated like we used to.
“I don’t like that. It shows that they’re not concerned, as far as recruiting me and getting me to come there.”
If Wells withdraws his commitment to the Seminoles, he admitted that winding up at Notre Dame might be a long shot.
“Notre Dame still hasn’t offered,” he said. “I guess they want to get me there on an official and evaluate me and my game film.
“But I won’t seriously consider going up there unless they offer me a scholarship.”
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Cedar Grove’s Jarboe shines in Orlando
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Cedar Grove receiver Josh Jarboe’s outstanding performance in Saturday’s Under Armour All-America Game didn’t go unnoticed around the country.
Recruiting guru Jamie Newberg listed Jarboe as one of the players who saw his stock rise following last weekend’s all-star activities at Disney World.
Jarboe’s acting abilities were nearly as good as his efforts on the field.
Just when Jarboe appeared set to sport a Florida hat on ABC, Jarboe broke the hearts of Florida Gators fans when an Oklahoma cap suddenly appeared.
“I came up with that on my own,” Jarboe said.
Jarboe said he was pleased with his performance last week in Orlando.
“I’ve been knowing I can be rated higher than I am,” he said. “I wasn’t complaining. I just went down there and showed what I can do.”
Jarboe said one major factor led him to choose the Sooners over the Gators.
“I think I have better chance to play early at Oklahoma,” he said.
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Florida’s Meyer to visit Sanders
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If Georgia plans to obtain a commitment from Northmont (Oh.) High offensive tackle Zebrie Sanders on Sunday, Bulldogs coach Mark Richt’s upcoming weekend travel plans should include a trip to Clayton, Oh.
Sanders, who has narrowed his college choices to Florida and Georgia, confirmed Monday night that Gators coach Urban Meyer and several members of his staff plan to travel to the Buckeye State this weekend to spend time with him.
The 6-foot-6 lineman indicated that he’d also like to see a contingent from the Bulldog nation show up at his front door.
“Coach Meyer is coming up,” Sanders said. “I talked to [Georgia offensive line] coach [Stacy] Searels on Friday. It would be nice if him and coach Richt came up.”
Sanders said he doesn’t have a particular setting in mind when he publicly discloses on Jan. 13 where he will play college football.
“It’s nothing special,” said Sanders, who said the Sunday announcement won’t originate from a church pulpit or be in the form of a press conference.
Sanders said Monday evening he’s still torn over whether he’ll spend the next four years in Athens or Gainesville.
“This is hard,” he said “It’s been very hard.”
Did Sanders, who showed brief interest in UCLA early in the recruiting process, take a second look at the Bruins following that program’s recent decision to hire Rick Neuheisel as head coach?
“Not really,” Sanders said. “It’s been Georgia and Florida the whole time. I really like those two.”
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Griffin’s Jackson set for Alabama, FSU visits
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Griffin defensive lineman Toby Jackson, one of the crown jewels in Georgia’s current recruiting class, confirmed Monday night that he plans to spend the upcoming weekend in Tuscaloosa, Ala.
He’ll travel to Tallahassee, Fla. seven days later.
“I like Alabama a lot,” said Jackson, who is ranked as the eighth-best defensive end in the Class of 2008 by Scout.com. “I’m going there this weekend and just looking forward to seeing what the atmosphere is like.”
Jackson visited Miami in mid-December. He’ll drop in on legendary coach Bobby Bowden and the Florida State Seminoles during the weekend of Jan. 18.
“Miami has a great tradition and family chemistry down there,” he said. “The only thing I would say bad about Miami is the distance from home.
“I’m looking forward to going to Florida State and seeing the coaches and players. I’ve already been there a couple of times. I like the atmosphere there.”
As he has maintained for weeks, Jackson said he’d sign with the Bulldogs if [the Feb. 6] national signing day was tomorrow.
“Georgia is still my main school right now,” he said. “The only thing that would keep me from going to Georgia is for another school to show me something Georgia doesn’t have.
“Show me different things like academics, playing time or just somewhere that I can call a second home.”
Jackson seemed pleased with Jefferson County lineman A.J. Harmon’s recent decision to commit to the Bulldogs.
“I think Georgia did a good job picking him up,” Jackson said. “I know A.J. pretty good. I’ve competed against him in combines and camps.
“He’s a good dude. He will do a lot for Georgia.”
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Sanders to decide on Jan. 13
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Decision day for Northmont (Oh.) High offensive tackle Zebrie Sanders has been set for Sunday Jan. 13.
After briefly considering UCLA, Sanders confirmed that he will play college football for Georgia or Florida.
“I love coach [Mark] Richt,” Sanders told Scout.com. “That’s probably the main reason why I’m thinking about them. [Offensive line] coach [Stacy] Searels is great.
“All the players that are down there, Trinton Sturdivant, all of them down there, Fernando [Velasco], all of them are good. And I like the facilities and the chance to play early.”
Sanders said he’ll communicate with Richt and Florida coach Urban Meyer this week before making a commitment on Sunday.
“Coach Meyer is coming down and I’m talking to coach Richt,” Sanders said. “So, I’m getting it done.”
Sanders said a variety of factors will contribute to his decision.
“It’s just how I feel more comfortable with the players and the coaches,” he said. “Coach Richt is awesome. The players, like Tim Tebow, at Florida are awesome.
“It’s just going to be hard. I’ve just got to think about it the next couple of days and get it over with.”
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LSU gets nation’s top cornerback
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Defensive back Patrick Johnson of Blanche Ely High in Pompano Beach, Fla. announced on Saturday he will sign a letter of intent to play college football at LSU.
Listed as a five-star recruit and the country’s best cornerback by Scout.com, Johnson picked the Tigers over Florida and Florida State.
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LSU beats Alabama, Florida for Edwards
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LSU beat out two SEC rivals Saturday for Tyler Edwards’ commitment.
The Monroe (La.) Ouachita star, Rivals.com’s 14th-ranked tight end, announced during Saturday’s Under Armour All-Star game he’d sign with Les Miles’ Tigers next month.
Edwards also considered Alabama and Florida.
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Arizona grabs lineman from Hawaii
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Solomon Koehler, a 6-foot-3, 315 defensive lineman from Castle High in Kaneohe, Hawaii, picked Arizona over Hawaii and Oregon State in the fourth quarter of today’s U.S. Army All-American Bowl in San Antonio.
Koehler is recognized as the eight-best defensive tackle in the country by Scout.com.
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Cedar Grove’s Jarboe picks Sooners
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Cedar Grove star Josh Jarboe said Saturday he’ll sign with Oklahoma next month.
Jarboe, ranked by Rivals.com as the 11th-best wide receiver nationally in the Class of 2008, made his announcement on national television during ABC’s coverage of the Under Armour All-Star Game in Orlando.
Jarboe said he picked the Sooners over Florida, Georgia and LSU.
Georgia is in good shape at his position with commitments from A.J. Green, Rivals.com’s No. 2-ranked receiver, and Tavarres King, No. 14 in the Web site’s rankings.
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Harmon picks Georgia over Clemson
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Georgia’s top-three recruiting class received a boost today when Jefferson County’s A.J. Harmon chose the Bulldogs over Clemson and South Carolina.
Harmon, considered the 10th-best offensive tackle in the nation by Scout.com, had maintained for months that he was headed to Clemson.
But the 6-foot-5, 325-pound lineman elected to stay in his home state by sporting a Georgia cap during the third quarter of the U.S. Army All-American Bowl in San Antonio.
Georgia center Fernando Velasco is one of the primary reasons Harmon chose the Dogs.
Velasco, also a Jefferson County product, and Harmon are close friends.
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Robinson chooses Arizona State
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Gerell Robinson, a 6-foot-3, 210-pound quarterback/safety for Hamilton High in Chandler, Az. who is projected to play receiver in college, has accepted a scholarship offer from Arizona State.
Robinson chose the Sun Devils over Notre Dame and Oregon during halftime of today’s U.S. Army All-American Bowl.
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Pitt grabs big-time recruit
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Shayne Hale of Monroeville Gateway (Pa.) chose to stay close to home when he selected a scholarship offer today from Pittsburgh over Ohio State and Virginia during NBC’s telecast of the U.S. Army All-American Bowl.
Hale, considered the third-best defensive end in the nation by Scout.com, will likely play linebacker for the Panthers.
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Gray commits to Minnesota
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Minnesota picked up a commitment during today’s U.S. Army All-American Bowl when quarterback MarQueis Gray chose the Gophers over Michigan State and Oregon.
The 6-foot-4, 205-pound Gray played high school football at Ben Davis High in Indianapolis.
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Michigan gets commitment from Smith
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Brandon Smith, a quarterback for New Brunswick (N.J.) High, picked Michigan over Rutgers and South Carolina during NBC’s coverage of today’s U.S. Army All-American Bowl.
“Next season, I’ll be a Wolverine,” Smith told NBC as he reached out for a Michigan cap.
Smith, who played quarterback in high school, is expected to play safety at Michigan.
When asked about the recent coaching change in Ann Arbor, Smith said: “Rich Rodriguez is a good coach. I’m not worried about the coaching change at all.”
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Cal gets commitment from Deboskie
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Covaughn Deboskie, a 5-foot-11, 185-pound running back for Hamilton High in Chandler, Az., will play college football for California.
Deboskie chose the Golden Bears over Arizona State and Stanford during today’s U.S. Army All-American Bowl.
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First commitment at U.S. Army All-American Bowl
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Ryan Williams, a 5-foot-10, 205-pound running back from Stonewall Jackson High in Manassas, Va., became the first player to declare a commitment on NBC’s coverage of today’s U.S. Army All-American Bowl when he chose Virginia Tech.
Williams picked the Hokies over Boston College, Clemson, Maryland and Notre Dame.
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Florida, Auburn new favorites to land Buford’s Hunter
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Buford’s Omar Hunter, considered the second-best defensive tackle in the nation in the class of 2008 by Scout.com, has de-committed to Notre Dame.
Following weeks of speculation, Hunter made it official on Friday in Orlando, where he will participate in Saturday’s Under Armour All-America Game.
“Omar has de-committed to Notre Dame,” said Buford coach Jess Simpson, who is working as an assistant coach for Saturday’s all-star event, which will feature many of the nation’s top recruits.
“The main reasons were just being closer to family and home. I think that was the number one thing.”
Hunter immediately listed Auburn, Florida and Southern Cal as his new finalists.
But Simpson indicated the candidates might be narrowed to two SEC powers.
“It’s between Florida and Auburn from what he’s told me,” Simpson said. “And I know Auburn losing [defensive coach] Will Muschamp [who accepted a similar position at Texas] today probably threw a wrench in that for them.”
Simpson admitted that Hunter had been hinting to the Notre Dame coaches for days that he was rethinking his commitment.
“He called them [to de-commit], but I know he’s been talking to them the last couple of weeks about this,” Simpson said.
Simpson doubts that Hunter will make a commitment during Saturday’s game, which will be broadcast live on ABC at 2 p.m.
“I’m not saying he won’t do it, but I’m not anticipating it,” he said.
“I think he’ll take a couple of visits and take some time over the next couple of weeks to sort things out.”
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Report: Hunter nixes Notre Dame
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Buford’s Omar Hunter has officially de-committed from Notre Dame, according to espn.com.
The AJC had reported in mid-December that Hunter appeared to be wavering on his decision. At the time, Buford coach Jess Simpson said that Hunter was still going to play for the Irish.
But after watching the Irish on television this fall, coupled with the distance from home, Hunter, a defensive tackle, changed his mind.
He told the website he is now interested in three schools: Southern Cal, Florida and Auburn.
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Florida set to offer Mays’ Smith?
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Mays defensive end Bernard Smith says his top three college choices are Florida, Western Kentucky and Virginia Tech.
Smith has visits lined up to Florida (Jan. 11) and Western Kentucky (Jan. 18).
He has a scholarship offer from Western Kentucky. Other schools are waiting to offer until his ACT scores arrive next week.
“The day before I leave for Florida, I’ll know if they are going to offer,” Smith said. “Everybody is waiting on my ACT scores, including Auburn, Clemson and Kentucky.”
If the Gators offer, Smith said it’s not a sure thing that he will commit to last year’s national champion.
“If they offer, I’ll still take all my visits and see what’s my best option,” he said. “Just because a school has a great team doesn’t mean it’s a great school.
“I want to go there and take in a basketball game so I can see what the fan support is like. You get to mingle with some of the students and I’ll ask questions.
“I’ll be paying attention to the students to see what they think of the school. I already know the coaches are going to hit me with their best selling lines.”
Florida and Virginia Tech are recruiting Smith at defensive end. Western Kentucky likes Smith at outside linebacker.
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Uzzi joins Army All-American lineup
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Add Chamblee two-way lineman Omoregie Uzzi to the list of Georgia prospects participating in this weekend’s U.S. Army All-American Bowl high school game in San Antonio.
Uzzi was added to the roster earlier this week after another player pulled out of the game due to injury, according to Chamblee head coach Jim Showfety.
“He’s there [in San Antonio], and he’s really excited about participating,” Showfety said.
Uzzi (6-foot-4, 305 pounds), an AJC Super Southern 100 pick at offensive tackle, also played on the defensive front for Chamblee. He spearheaded the Bulldogs’ potent wing-T rushing attack, which averaged close to 300 yards per game and propelled Chamblee to a 12-2 record and to the Class AAA semifinals. He is being recruited by a number of schools, but has not made a commitment.
Uzzi joins the East squad, which includes Jefferson County offensive lineman A.J. Harmon (who has committed to Clemson), Norcross receiver Brice Butler (Southern Cal), and Statesboro defensive lineman DeAngelo Tyson (Georgia).
The U.S. Army All-American Bowl will feature some of the nation’s top players from the class of 2008, and will be televised Saturday at 1 p.m. on NBC.
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Offensive-Defense All-American Bowl preview
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The second annual Offense-Defense All-American Bowl, which features top high school players from across the nation, kicks off at 8 p.m. on Friday in the Orange Bowl in Miami. The game will be televised live on Fox College Sports.
Players on the east squad who have committed to Georgia include linebacker Marcus Dowtin of Fork Union Military Academy, defensive back Brandon Boykin of Fayette County, safety Makiri Pugh of Independence (N.C.) High and Cordy Glenn of Riverdale.
Players from the state of Georgia on the east roster include Justin Tuggle of Northview (committed to Boston College), linebacker Keith Wells of Gainesville (committed to Florida State) and Travis Dungee of McEachern (considering Alabama, Auburn, FAMU and Rutgers).
Team East will be coached by Cris Carter, a former NFL player and co-host of HBO Sports’ “Inside the NFL.”
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Stephens Co.’s Poole headed to Tenn.
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After hinting for weeks that he might withdraw his commitment from Tennessee and pledge his allegiance to South Carolina, Stephens County running back Tauren Poole is now set to become a full-fledged Volunteer.
The 5-foot-10.5, 197-pound running back graduated from Stephens County in late December and plans to enroll at Tennessee this month.
“Right now, I’m on my way to Tennessee,” Poole said. “I’m headed to Knoxville on Tuesday, Jan. 8.”
Poole said Tennessee’s coaches plan to allow him input on whether he’s redshirted this fall.
But Poole’s chances of being on the Volunteers’ roster this fall- and possibly getting some playing time as a freshman - should be enhanced by his participation in spring practice.
“The coaches felt if I wanted to play and make an impact, I needed to go early,” said Poole, who plans to study Sports Management.
Permalink | | Categories: South Carolina, Tennessee
Roark to visit Tech next week
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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North Cobb quarterback Matt Roark has narrowed the list of schools he is considering to Georgia Tech, Illinois, Kentucky, Oregon and Wake Forest.
The 6-foot-6, 195-pound Roark will visit the Jackets and new coach Paul Johnson next week. He’ll travel to Winston-Salem, N.C. the following weekend to tour Wake Forest’s campus.
“I’m supposed to be going to Georgia Tech on the 10th for an unofficial visit just to check it out and meet the new coaches,” Roark said. “I know [Johnson] is a good head coach and I’ve heard he’s a real good guy.”
Roark, who will visit Wake Forest on Jan. 19, is being recruited by the Demon Deacons as a receiver.
“[Wake Forest’s] offense fits me well, especially if I play receiver,” he said. “And the ACC is a good conference.
“And I like how Wake Forest is a great academic school.”
Permalink | Comments (46) | Categories: Other schools, Tech
Robinson offers his take on UGA
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Greater Atlanta Christian linebacker Christian Robinson, who committed to Georgia last spring, predicts the Dogs will be among the elite teams in the nation when the 2008 preseason polls are released.
“Just looking at the players they have coming back and the recruiting class I’m in and how a bunch of us will contribute, if they’re not in the top three there’s something wrong,” Robinson said Wednesday evening.
“Once they start playing, you’ll find out who the real number one is. But I think Georgia will be pretty good.”
Robinson’s next visit to Athens will likely come after national signing day on Feb. 6.
“I took my official visit already and I’ve got school and other things going on,” he said. “I’ll try to visit a couple of times after signing day.”
After committing to the Dogs in May, Robinson admitted that his expectations at the time didn’t include arriving as a freshman to play football for a program that has a chance to enter the upcoming season as the top-ranked team in the nation.
“When I committed, I was excited then and I couldn’t see myself picking a better team,” he said.
“As the season went along, I just got more excited about being part of the team. I know we’ll be playing in some big games when I get there, and I’m just excited to be part of it.”
Bass sets visit to Maryland
Stockbridge quarterback Tyler Bass plans to visit Maryland on Jan. 18 and is contemplating trips to East Carolina and Louisiana Tech.
The 6-foot-3, 210-pounder is also considering visits to Louisville and Memphis.
“Everybody is pretty much equal right now,” Bass said. “I’ll look at everything when I take my visits then I’ll make my determination on where I want to go.”
Permalink | | Categories: Other schools, UGA
Tech coach calls Shaw
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Flowery Branch quarterback Jaybo Shaw was one of the first persons new Georgia Tech coach Paul Johnson phoned following the Jackets’ loss to Fresno State in Monday’s Humanitarian Bowl.
Shaw, who committed to the Jackets in December, also received a call from a Navy assistant coach who will be on Johnson’s staff at Tech.
“They called me and said they hope I’m excited with my decision to come to Georgia Tech,” Shaw said. “I am excited to be part of the program.”
Shaw is eager to play for Johnson, who was relegated to spectator status during Monday’s bowl game.
“I think coach Johnson is a great fit at Georgia Tech, and he will bring the program back up,” Shaw said.
Shaw, who plans to take an official visit to Tech on Jan. 11, watched Monday’s game at home with friends.
“It was weird looking at TV and realizing that I’ll be playing there next year,” he said.
Permalink | Comments (43) | Categories: Tech
Lovejoy’s Brown down to two
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Lovejoy receiver Ta’Juan Brown has visits planned to Georgia Southern and Eastern Kentucky later this month.
“Georgia Southern is my favorite school, but I’m still looking around,” Brown said. “Georgia Southern has a real good football team with a good coach. And they’ve got a good graduation rate for athletes.”
Brown, who began his high school career at St. Thomas Aquinas in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., said one of his former teammates is lobbying hard for him to commit to Eastern Kentucky.
“He said they’ve got a great program,” Brown said. “I know they won their conference championship this past year.”
Permalink | | Categories: Other schools
UGA-bound Commings to visit Athens
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Sanders Commings, a receiver/defensive back for Westside Augusta who has committed to Georgia, plans to visit Athens on Jan. 11.
“I’m going just to learn things about Georgia off the field; things other than football,” said Commings, who watched Tuesday night’s Sugar Bowl between Georgia and Hawaii at his home along with several friends. “I want to learn more about the academic stuff.”
Commings broke up two passes in Saturday’s Georgia Athletic Coaches Association North/South All-Star Classic, which was played in Columbus.
“It was a fun experience,” Commings said. “I think it was the first step for getting ready for college games.
“Everybody on the field was a top player in Georgia who can play college football somewhere.”
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