Stephenson's Michael Thornton signs with UGA after keeping secret

Stephenson defensive tackle Michael Thornton secretly committed to Georgia last week and officially revealed the news at his school's signing ceremony Wednesday.

Thornton was one of 29 Stephenson players -- and the last -- to make his college choice.

"I wanted to wait until today [to announce] so all my friends and family could be around me when I made my decision," Thornton said.

"It was tough [keeping it a secret]. Everybody was putting out rumors and speculation. [Georgia] is a great thing for me and my family."

Thornton, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution's No. 3-rated prospect in the state, selected Georgia over Penn State and Miami. He said it wasn't really close.

"It's the depth chart [at Georgia]. ... I can come in and play right way, and that's what I am preparing to do," Thornton said.

Thornton wore a black suit to the ceremony. When he walked up to the podium, he pulled out a bag with a Georgia hat and jacket and received a standing ovation from the crowd in Stephenson's auditorium.

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