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'X' Says:'Lingering Thoughts 2011 Recruiting.... And A Look To 2012

Just a few random thoughts and comments that may be of interest to only me.

Tennessee closed out their recruiting class about the way I thought it would go. It was a stretch to think Tennessee would wind up with Gabe Wright, Leon Mackey, or Tim Jernigan. Tennessee was swimming upstream in the recruitment of each. Just got to the dance a bit late with each prospect . I do believe (not think... believe ) Tennessee felt Lamar Dawson was a VOL up until he chose USC Wednesday morning. It was a blow for Tennessee but it was a huge loss for the Wildcats and Joker Phillips.

Nonetheless, the recruiting class was a borderline top ten class. One must also add Eddrick Loften, who re-signed with Tennessee, and Alex Bullard, a highly regarded offensive lineman from days gone by to this class. Both should contribute. For you star gazers, Lofton and Bullard were 4 star prospects.

I don’t put much stock in team rankings really none whatsoever to be honest. The ESPN team rankings have me confused. ESPN has Tennessee’s class ranked just inside the top twenty. ESPN doesn’t factor junior college signees in their rankings and Tennessee signed three dandies. If ESPN is going to be a player with RIVALS and SCOUT they need to rethink their approach to JUCO signees.


My one criticism of the signing class AND I hope it is fixed by next National Signing Day is Tennessee needs to figure out how to re-establish itself in North Carolina. North Carolina produces high number quality football prospects every year. Tennessee needs to step over there a grab two or three every year.


Here are my signee specific thoughts


Most underrated signee(s) in the class. Any one of three or four signees could qualify as the most underrated and be considered the right answer. First, I would mention Brian Randolph. Outside of Ray Drew and a couple of Georgia kids I can’t think of a more decorated prospect coming out of the state of Georgia in 2011. He is a player and I have felt that way from the first time I saw his tape;

Next, Geraldo Orta. Tennessee people believe they stole one from Clemson and Georgia with Orta;

Jordan Williams is a player Florida and other schools simply missed on until late in the recruiting season. Too late. He and teammate Trevarius Saulsberry were both a bit of late bloomers. Also, don’t discount the fact that they came from a high school program not used to losing; and,

Vincent Dallas. Expect him to play early next season barring injury. He has a chance to be very good.

What were they thinking Award(s). Multiple winners here.

Why in the world Georgia did not pursue Georgia kids' Vincent Dallas or Brian Randolph is beyond me. These kids have a chance to be special players at Tennessee.

Close second is Urban Meyer. What were you thinking this time last season when you didn’t have Jordan Williams or Curt Maggitt very high on the Gator recruiting board?

Rivals Recruiting Service. Though I do not pay that much attention to “stars”. How can you have two state Gatorade Players of the Year, two Parade All Americans (Justin Worley and Brian Randolph), and a National Gatorade Player of the Year (Worley) rated as 3* star prospects. Yes I probably have on orange colored glasses. But, if either of these kids would have signed with a program like Alabama, LSU, or Florida for instance, do you really think they would be 3 star prospects? ….. That is what I thought.



The signee I worried about the most until the papers were in. AJ Johnson. Florida was a contender until the coaching change regardless of what was being said in public. Georgia tried late to get involved. Lance Thompson has himself a good one in Johnson.


The signee (s) who have the most pressure on them when they step on campus. How is this for a curve. First, I say Devrin Young. As woeful as Tennessee’s return game was last year, I believe Young is expected to provide contributions right out of the shoot. Coach Dooley was indirectly referring to Young as an upgrade to the return game in pressers as far back as mid-season last year.

Second, D’Anthony Arnett. No doubt Arnett is a special talent . It is unrealistic to expect huge contributions from true freshman early in their career. Charlie Baggett coached receivers were an exception last season. Tennessee really needs for Arnett to be ready to contribute in September as a slot receiver along with Vincent Dallas.

Third, Maurice Couch. Tennessee needs for Couch to be their next great defensive tackle. Couch may not start immediately but he will likely be looked to for a bunch of snaps early on.

Signee with the most to prove. Devrin Young. Really didn’t have a committable offer from any other school until Tennessee came calling. Close second is Christian Harris.

Signee(s) you can’t wait to see after a year in the Tennessee Strength and Conditioning Program. Alan Posey. Bet his parents can’t wait for him to get on Tennessee's meal ticket and off theirs. Geesh, this kid is a mountain. Close second is Jordan Williams and Marlin Lane.



The signee you hope is a contributor before you travel to Florida in September. Many difficult choices here. On offense I would have to go with Marlin Lane. You have to head to Florida in September with a home run threat or three on offense. On defense, the decision is more difficult. Byron Moore is obvious choice because he looks to be a play-maker and gives Justin Wilcox so much more flexibility. Close second Maurice Couch and Curt Maggitt off the edge.

Signee you hope you don’t have to see until 2012. Justin Worley. Worley is an incredible talent but I’d just a soon see his career begin at Tennessee in 2012.

Signee you hope you see trotting out for the first snap of the season. For me, has to be Antonio Richardson on offense. Barring injury, Richardson has a chance to be really special before he leaves Tennessee. On defensive, Byron Moore. Hope he is as good as advertised.


Favorite Signee. Cameron Clear. Cant wait to see where he winds up playing and what kind of career he has at Tennessee. Tino Thomas. Something just tells me this kid will wind up being a keeper. He is athletic, fast and has great bloodlines.

So let’s look ahead to 2012. It is already started folks. Don’t look now but Tennessee is less than 3 weeks away from its first “Junior Day”.

I think the emphasis for the 2012 will be as focused on defensive lineman as the 2011 class was focused on offensive lineman. A close second linebackers. And, oh yes…. Speed.

I hit many of these kids in my 4 part “12 for 2012” posted on Basilio’s site back in December (check his archives). In terms of the in state kids, you should start paying attention to names like wide receiver Drae Bowles, athlete Brian Kimbro, and offensive lineman Ben Still (son of former Vol Eric Still). You'll hear these names plenty of times.

Its early but Tennessee is already drawing significant interest from many of the Southeast’s top prospects. Here are a few of the names you'll here more about over the next few months. Nick Dawson Linebacker, Charlotte, North Carolina; Kenyan Drake running back, Powder Springs, Georgia; Channing Ward Defensive End, Aberdeen Mississippi; Jordan Jenkins, Defensive End Hamilton, Georgia; Dillon Gordon (tight end) and Torrey Bell (defensive end) , River Ridge, Louisiana; and Alex Taylor athlete Lester, Alabama.


more to follow'


'x'
'X' Says:Must admit right now…. This could go really good for Tennessee or maybe not…..

The official visits of Dawson and Jernigan couldn’t have gone better. Tennessee has certainly given both prospects and their families something to think about. Here is one thing that shouldn’t go unnoticed. I believe this bodes well for the future regardless of how Tennessee closes. Jernigan decided to take an official visit to Tennessee instead of taking an official visit to Florida last weekend (did visit Florida unofficially). Florida pulled out all the stops to try and keep him for visiting Tennessee .. to no avail. Also, consider Dawson. Florida has put the full court recruiting press on him of late. Still, it looks like with Dawson, Florida is on the outside looking in.

So how does Tennessee finish? My guess is some of these kids still really don’t know who they will sign.

Byron Moore – I think landing Byron Moore is as critical as any prospect remaining on the board. With last night's decision, you can go ahead and pencil him in as a starter @ cornerback when he walks on campus and he immediately upgrades the defense. It will be instant. You should see some of the film I've had access to. Wow.


Cam Clear- Still think Tennessee is in good shape here. 2 pm eastern announcement today.

Antonio Richardson. I think Tennessee weathers what is going on in Nashville now. Richardson is a NFL type talent. Do you put the future in the hands of a program that doesn’t even have an offensive line coach right now?

Lamar Dawson. I believe Dawson has told some he is coming to Tennessee. I will believe it when I see it. The best thing Tennessee fans can hope for is we hear nothing about Dawson’s recruitment until Wednesday morning. The pressure this kid and family are subject to right now to stay in state and play for Kentucky has to be overwhelming ( same as what Antonio Richardson is likely feeling). My gut says Kentucky here. Dawson maybe the second most critical prospect on the board.

Tim Jernigan. Jernigan had a great visit. I think he has long wanted to attend Florida State and that is where I think he lands.

Gabe Wright. This has been the wackiest recruitment ever. Tennessee people feel good about where they sit with Wright. Auburn folks all but have him in their two deep for next season. This one could go either way. Too close to call for me but think Auburn slightly.

Curt Maggitt. There is no good reason for me to feel this way. I thought Florida had the momentum going into the weekend. Florida is chocked full of kids from Dwyer High School that were in his ear all weekend about being a Gator. Something tells me this kid marches to his own beat. I think Tennessee. I think Maggitt is critical because he gives Tennessee something off the edge they don’t have now.

Leon Mackey. Maybe too much risk here academically. Though if Tennessee does whiff on Wright and Jernigan and others, the seventh best JUCO player in the country is not a bad contingency plan. Question is whether Mackey gets caught in a numbers issue. Still think Texas Tech.

Literally, there are seven of the eight prospects still on the board that are too close to call AND most aren’t announcing until National Signing Day.

Tennessee could be in a real numbers crunch or maybe scrambling a little by tomorrow morning. Whatever the situation, this is a solid class. Dooley has a decent contingency plan in place. They had Sage Harold in for an unofficial visit this weekend. Harold, a defensive end from Fork Union Military, has been on the radar for three to four weeks. Harold is a fallback and will likely sign if Tennessee has a spot. What a contingency plan! If you sign Harold, you can only think this would help Tennessee recruiting his brother Eli Harold who is likely a top 100 prospect in 2012 and one of the top high school players in Virginia.

'x'
'X' Says:'Down The Stretch

I hate making predictions on what 17 and 18 year old kids are going to do. Just don’t believe in it. For someone who like me who deals in a world where things are black or white, recruiting is neither black or white. It is an inexact science to say the least to figure where these kids are going to spend the next 3 to 5 years of their lives. Consider a few jewels from Tennessee recruits from days gone by. Remember Darren Myles told his dad five minutes before he signed with Tennessee he was signing with Alabama; Dwight Jones was going to sign with Tennessee and changed his mind on the way to signing ceremony and signed with North Carolina; Eddie Lacey told his coach he was signing with Tennessee walked on the stage and promptly changed his mind and signed with Alabama; and, a few years ago, Fred Bledsoe was a Tennessee commit as legend goes on the morning of signing day saw the shadow of a razorback on his bedroom wall. Bledsoe signed with Arkansas. ….. I could go on and on with stories like this. Coaches spend countless hours building relationships and schmoozing with kids and their families and the prize you thought had is here and gone. Go figure. Guess what? After next Wednesday or Thursday, it all starts again.


But, Basilio, ever the wiry negotiator, threatened to withhold all future payments from me or worse force me into a Saturday show with Beano and Philly has talked X into his "predictions”. So here they are. These “predictions” are based upon the now for lack of a better way to say it . Check back on Monday it will change. I’m sure. This time of the year does that to you. Basilio asked me to look at the remaining board (13 -14 targets) and give his readers thoughts, predictions (in percentages for some reason) and how confident I am in my prediction. So here they are.

For being the next to last week before National Signing Day, it has been a good week for Tennessee. Tennessee got the second running back in this class it wanted as Marlin Lane publicly committed to Tennessee Monday . As Lane jumps on board, running back prospects that were on Tennessee’s board like Derrick Milton, Justus Pickett, Buck Allen and Andrew Buie fall off. Lane gives you a different running style than other backs in Tennessee’s stable. Lane also can catch the ball out of the backfield and the kid has got some pretty impressive skills returning punts. We’ll see how his skills transfer to the SEC.

On Sunday, a misinformed beat writer from Miami put the Volunteer Recruitniks into full throttle meltdown mode by saying JUCO safety Byron Moore had verbally committed to Miami. Fast forward approximately 72 hours later and it looked like Byron Moore is a Volunteer. Now Moore is not announcing until next Monday on his terms. Sounds like yet another kid having a tough time making a decision. In terms of facilities and completion level, Tennessee is a no doubter for Moore. However, Moore and family have connections to members of the Miami staff and this seems to be complicating Moore’s decision. People around the Tennessee program feel better about this one than I do. Prediction: Tennessee (Confidence Level 55%).

If Moore jumps on I’m afraid its happy trails for Eddrick Lofton. Hey, Lofton is a great talent but he had ample time to get his affairs in order and it hasn’t happened.

Cameron Clear, Tight End, Memphis, Tennessee. Clear has been quiet lately. Alabama concerns you a little. X says Tennessee (Confidence Level 90%).

Antonio Richardson, Offensive Lineman, Nashville, Tennessee. Richardson hasn’t been quiet lately and neither has the father. Both seem to be enjoying the process more as national signing day draws closer. You can say this for Richardson. He said from day one he was going to take all his visits and announce his decision on National Signing Day. So here we are. So many that know more than I have felt good about Tennessee’s chances with Richardson for the longest time. Personally, I just don’t feel it with Tennessee and Richardson. I don’t know what would concern me more Richardson taking an official visit to USC or to Auburn…….Concern aside this seemingly lack of strong conviction on where he is taking a final visit makes me think he is just trippin. Prediction: An uncomfortable Tennessee. (Confidence level 51%).

Mickey Johnson, Defensive Tackle Covington, Louisiana. Talked to different people around this recruitment and I’m getting thoughts that are 180 degrees different from everyone. Tennessee thinks Johnson is a lot closer to qualifying and Johnson has a plan in place to get his academics in order. With Tennessee’s needs at defensive tackle, how can you turn a kid like this away? If Tennessee does, they must have a really good feeling about another defensive tackle on their board. I think Johnson wants to come to Tennessee but does Tennessee have a spot? Prediction: Arkansas (Confidence Level 65%)

Leon Mackey, Defensive Lineman Hinds Community College, Mississippi. Mackey is a versatile defensive end that has the size to give Tennessee a few snaps at defensive tackle if necessary. All signs had Mackey headed to Mississippi State but Chuck Smith got Mackey to visit Tennessee and he loved it here. If Mackey would have pulled the trigger 4 weeks ago, he’d be a Volunteer now. Right now though things get dicey with the numbers. The risks may outweigh the returns here for Tennessee but I think Tennessee is the pick. Prediction: Tennessee (Confidence Level 53%). Sleeper here is Texas Tech.

Brandon Fulse, Tight End/Athlete, Florida. I mentioned before Fulse is clearly a backup option at tight end defensive line. Don’t see Tennessee really pushing for a commitment here unless something goes wrong with their #1 tight end prospect. Even if that were to happen, most believe Fulse has academic concerns that will push him to junior college or prep school before getting to an SEC school. Prediction: Auburn. (Confidence level 75%) . I will be honest. Auburn has long been the school to beat for Fulse. However, Tennessee has given Fulse much to think about. If Fulse somehow fell to Tennessee, things would really start getting interesting with the numbers.

Tim Jernigan, Defensive Tackle, Lakeland, Florida. If you are in to moral victories, just getting Jernigan on campus is a coup. Recruiting though is not about moral victories and you don’t get ribbons for finishing in second place you get fired. I don’t know which if any of these recruiting services is the best. Regardless of which service you prefer, most have Jernigan as the top or one of the top defensive tackle prospects in the country. If he gets to Tennessee for his official visit you have to give the VOLS a chance. I think though it is too late in the process and Jernigan stays in the state of Florida. Prediction: Florida State. Confidence level (65%).

Favorable decisions from one or a couple of the following prospects could push this recruiting class to a borderline top ten recruiting class in the country. Anyone of the prospects below, barring setback or injury, would likely contributor from the first day they walk on campus. If Tennessee could land all three, it would certainly be a coup. If they don’t land any, the recruiting class is still rock solid.

Gabe Wright, Defensive Tackle, Columbus, Georgia. I get these good feelings about Wright and Tennessee occasionally and then I consider this kid has taken the recruiting process to Dwayne Ruud - esque levels. Wright is the one prospect that I have continually gone back and forth on to the point now where I don’t have any confidence at all in a prediction. I thought Tennessee was in great shape with Wright a week ago. By the time Sunday evening rolled around, I thought the pendulum may have started to swing back to Auburn after the National Championship celebration and such. This week things have evened seemed to even back out but Wright hasn’t taken his official visit to Auburn yet. That is this weekend when the full court press will be applied. Thinking Wright's family is a major factor in this decision tips this one to Tennessee. Prediction: Tennessee (Confidence level 0%).

Curt Maggitt, linebacker/defensive end. Florida. I have lost sleep at night trying to rationalize why something keeps telling me its Tennessee here for Maggitt. Empirical evidence suggests prospects like Maggitt don’t get away from Florida. In the past, if Florida put the full court press on a prospect like Maggitt, the kid was a Gator. Maggitt seems different and may could buck that trend. He loved his visit to Tennessee. He also loved his visit to Wisconsin. Despite their persistence, Florida couldn’t persuade Maggitt from taking his official visit to Tennessee which I thought was telling. Florida’s new staff has a ton of ground to make up with Maggitt and they’ll have their chance this weekend. Going against all trends, I don’t think the Gators are able to make up enough ground. Prediction: Tennessee (Confidence Level 60%).

Lamar Dawson, Linebacker , Boyle County Kentucky. It all comes down to this weekend. I don’t know what else to say. Tennessee has passed on prospects like CJ Johnson and Kent Turene to focus all its efforts for a true middle linebacker on Lamar Dawson. Florida , Central Florida, Oregon have been involved with Dawson but I would be surprised if Dawson’s top two schools are anything other than Tennessee and Kentucky. Family will keep him close to home in my opinion. It comes down to whether Dawson thinks he can play early at Tennessee and can compete for championships. At Kentucky, he and his teammates will spending their holidays the next four years in either Birmingham, Shreveport, or Memphis. Even with that I think family wins out here. Prediction: X Kentucky (Confidence Level 65%).

Notes: Here is a new name to the board.

Willie Carmichael. Athlete, Greenville, Tennessee. Carmichael is a new name to the board. For readers that are familiar with East Tennessee football and basketball, Willie Carmichael doesn’t need an introduction. Carmichael, as a spread type quarterback and defensive back, lead Greenville to a state championship in football and was a recipient of a Tennessee Mr. Football award. Carmichael is a very good high school basketball player to boot. I had the opportunity to watch him play several times and he just seemed to have another gear most kids didn’t have. The thought that kept going through my head while I was watching him was I wonder how highly sought after Willie Carmichael would be if he went to camps between his junior and senior year and/or he played football in say Georgia or Florida. Details are a little sketchy but it looks like Carmichael will be on campus this weekend for an official visit. It is suggested that Carmichael may have a few loose end to tie up academically which may require an interim stop at prep school. There doesn’t seem to be any question though he has the athleticism to play in the SEC. He is one of the better ones to come out of East Tennessee.

Things to watch. Brandon Fulse announces today. Mickey Johnson announces tomorrow. Byron Moore on Monday.

Check back on Monday. Between now and then, do 'X' a favor and stop at Smoothie King!

Be good to yourself!!

x'
'X' Says:'The Weekend That Was and a Look Ahead

Another recruiting weekend in the books and one important weekend to go before the page is turned on the 2011 recruiting cycle. Doesn't seem that long ago we were talking about spring evaluations and summer camps and so forth. Now, when you read this, ten days will remain until National Signing Day. In summary, there was not an abundance of information coming out of this weekend. I didn’t really expect any to be honest with you.

A little house cleaning before we look ahead. Two things really to reflect on. First, there are at best ten maybe twelve prospects remaining on Tennessee's recruiting board. There could be another one or two depending what happens this week and who visits this weekend. Folks, Tennessee isn’t gonna sign them all. If Tennessee holds their commitments (22 as of last tonight) and bat an average of .400 to .500 down the stretch with the kids remaining on the board, a solid recruiting class could turn into a borderline top ten class. For you star gazers and folks that pay attention to such, a good number of the prospects remaining on Tennessee's board are four star prospects.

Second thing. If you read between the lines in my update coming out of last weekend, those around the program felt really good about where Tennessee stood with Geraldo Orta after his official visit. There was not much concern about whether Orta visited Clemson or not. As stated before, Orta, another solid prospect from Lowndes High School in Georgia, was a take regardless of what happened with the recruitment of Byron Moore. With Moore, tons of rumors out there about where he is headed. Though logic says Moore is headed to Miami, let’s wait and see. We should know something on Moore before the weekend.

Many of you have flooded Basilio's inbox with questions on two prospects Leon Mackey and Curt Maggitt. Let' X help you. Leon Mackey is the junior college defensive lineman from Hinds Community College in Mississippi. Mackey's talent has never been in question. He has struggled with academics in the past. However, now it looks like Mackey has a good chance to get his academics in order and be SEC eligible this fall. Mackey is not exactly chopped liver guys. He is the #7 rated Junior College player in the country. Most have assumed Mackey was headed to Mississippi State but Mackey's visit to Tennessee changed that. He loved his visit here. If Tennessee wants Mackey, X believes they get him. Doesn't hurt Tennessee's chances that Mississippi State has four defensive ends (two of which are JUCOs) already committed. In my opinion, Tennessee needs a defensive end in this class.

Now with Curt Maggitt. Six weeks ago, Maggitt was headed to Wisconsin. Two things have happened since. First, Urban Meyer, who wasn’t that interested in Maggitt, resigned and Will Muschamp was named Head Coach. Muschamp has made Maggitt's recruitment a priority. Second, Maggitt visited Tennessee .... and loved it. Florida gets their shot with Maggitt next weekend when he takes his official visit to the Gators. Remember Florida did everything it could to talk Maggitt out of his visit to Tennessee. Something tells me its Tennessee or Wisconsin. In the past, going down the stretch, prospects like Maggitt never got away from the Gators. Florida maybe wind up being the team to beat in the end. My guess Florida is nervous about this one.


Moving Along.....let's discuss Gabe Wright and Marlin Lane. Tennessee is in the final two for each prospect. With Wright it is Tennessee or Auburn and with Lane it is down to Miami or Tennessee. With Wright at this point, who knows. Coming out of this weekend, Tennessee felt really really good about where it stood with Wright but he will take his official visit to Auburn next weekend. At this point, if anyone tells you they know where Wright is going, they could be accurate. My information is he has told those around both programs he was coming. Stay tuned.

With Marlin Lane, I know Tennessee wants or wanted him as the second running back in the 2011 class. However, Lane seems to be looking for anywhere to go except Tennessee. The recruiting process is winding down and you have to wonder if Lane's antics might be wearing on some of the Tennessee staff. My guess is Tennessee will want an answer from Lane soon maybe the middle of next week so they can decide whether to visit Andrew Buie and /or Derrick Milton. These things have a way of working themselves out and I believe this running back situation will too.

Coming out of this most recent recruiting weekend, there are a few things to touch on and watch over the next 10 days.

First, there is Mickey Johnson defensive tackle from Louisiana. As I have discussed before and I really do hate talking about kids and their grades; however, academic concerns have plagued Johnson. These concerns have caused a few programs to be guarded in their pursuit of Johnson. Few schools doubt Johnson's potential. Defensive tackles with Johnson's size and measurables are money. Even though Tennessee has three committed defensive tackles, Johnson is a take. At Arkansas and LSU, I think Johnson is more of a backup plan than a priority.

Tennessee fans should know Tennessee's staff has recruited Mickey Johnson longer and with more conviction than any other school. If Mickey Johnson, Cameron Clear or Antonio Richardson choose another school,.... well sometimes it just happens that way. Our staff has done all it can recruiting each of these kids.

Brandon Fulse. Think about all the quality prospects the Tennessee staff has recruited and got to the campus either last summer, during the fall for an unofficial visit, or this winter for an official visit from Florida. Brandon Fulse is another 4 star prospect with strong interest in Tennessee. Fulse is being recruited as an athlete who could play tight end or along the defensive line. Cameron Clear is clearly the #1 target on the board at tight end. If Clear commits to Tennessee, Fulse is a defensive end/lineman if he were to sign with Tennessee. He is an outstanding athlete who would likely contribute at either position. Most believe Auburn is leader for Fulse. However, it appears Fulse has a ton of work to do academically and is likely headed to prep school or junior college.

From what I understand, Tennessee solidified its position with the committed prospects that visited this weekend. Those were Alan Carson, Kyler Kerbyson, Tom Smith, and AJ Johnson. I do worry a little about Georgia's pursuit of AJ Johnson with one official visit weekend to go.

A Look Ahead

This last official visit weekend is huge for Tennessee. Good news looking forward is the weather looks to be excellent absent of snow or ice. Right now, Tennessee expects their #1 linebacker target Lamar Dawson, the #1 defensive tackle prospect in the Southeast (according to some pundits) Tim Jernigan, Andrew Buie a top all purpose running back to be on campus, Derrick Milton a running back from Louisiana now at Hargrave Military , and possibly Willie Carmichael an athlete (in every sense of the word) from Greeneville, Tennessee. Keep in mind its way too early to have a firm list and depending on what happens this week with some of the kids mentioned in this update, you could see a number of changes to the official visitor by Friday.

Still expecting a wide receiver/ athlete type to make it to campus for an official visit.

until later

x'
'X' Says:X Report II

'You know this time of the year I always try to look at things like the glass is half full when it comes to Tennessee’s recruiting. With Tennessee being legitimately “in the mix” on so many high value prospects with two visit weekends to go, finding any real news where you can draw a positive.

There are a couple of things on the recruiting front though I find interesting. Here you go. It is hard to take anything “positive” from one of Tennessee’s recruiting targets committing to another school this late in the recruiting cycle. However, my opinion is the commitment of tight end/athlete Rory Anderson to South Carolina yesterday can be looked at as a positive. X has thought all along Tennessee would take two tight ends in the class. Anderson would have been three. Reading between the lines, with tight end prospect/signee Brendan Downs already in school, Tennessee must feel pretty good about their position with Cameron Clear.

It is hard to take a positive away from Tennessee jockeying around trying to get at least one or two more running back prospect lined up for official visits. As stated earlier in the week, running back prospect Marlin Lane, who visited Tennessee last weekend, and his upcoming visit to Florida State concerns me. It will be interesting though to see if Florida State has room in this class for yet another running back….(Florida State has three running backs committed right now). Lane may fall to Tennessee because Florida State simply doesn’t have room. Here is the glass half full perspective on Marlin Lane for me. Admittedly, I have long stated I don’t get paid for my evaluation of prospects. With that said, go check out the available video of Andrew Buie a running back prospect from Jacksonville, Florida. In my opinion, Buie is the best running back prospect on Tennessee’s board. Auburn, who was thought to be Buie’s leader, is basically full which may in the end be to Tennessee’ s benefit. Buie is a big-time prospect with breakaway speed plus he can catch the ball out of the backfield as well. Buie’s recruitment has been somewhat low key but he is a big time talent. He is looking to visit Tennessee the weekend of January 28.

Also, it is interesting that JUCO defensive lineman Leon Mackey hasn’t committed yet. Most believe Mississippi State has been his leader for the longest time. Tennessee was his best visit and I think that is making his final decision a tough one. That is another positive for Tennessee. Mackey without a doubt is a big time talent.

The other thing to watch in the next week or so is teams and prospects will begin playing chicken with one another. Teams will begin telling prospects to jump on board, hold your spot in our class, and if you don’t good luck to you. Kids will begin to get a little nervous and/or just over the process and make their decision public. Really believe some of the kids are getting to that point just tired of all the calls and attention…… As fun as it has been for some to follow Gabe Wright, Pat Martin and others , you can sense each is just about over it.


Weekend visitor list is coming together. There are still at least a handful of prospects rumored to be on campus. However, don’t expect the plans for these prospects to be finalized until tomorrow afternoon. Still looking at between 8 to 10 prospects being on campus. '

'x'
'X' Says:'Closing Out One Recruiting Weekend and Looking Ahead to the Next

After the commitment Monday evening of 4- star junior college defensive back Izaeua Lanier, Tennessee has 7 spots left in this 2011 recruiting class. Lanier is a good pickup. Much like Maurice Couch (junior college defensive tackle committed to Tennessee) Lanier has three years of eligibility at Tennessee. An SEC caliber defensive back prospect who considered Auburn (formerly an Auburn commitment), Florida, and the Mississippi schools prior to declaring for Tennessee, Lanier will be expected to compete for a starting position when he walks on campus this summer.

Why take Lanier you ask? Number of reasons for sure. First, Tennessee had trouble last season having more than 4 or 5 defensive backs available for duty. One of those kids was a baseball player that hadn’t put on a football helmet on before last August in 3 or 4 years. Next, at least one committed defensive back prospect is not out of the woods yet with respect to having all his academics and entrance requirements in order. Another defensive back prospect Tennessee would like to sign has his own set of troubles qualifying, had 5 months to get things in order, and he still isn’t in school nor is a slam dunk to be eligible by June. Lastly, seems two common denominators the committed defensive backs have are speed and athleticism. Tennessee coaching staff is saying with all the defensive back commitments that an upgrade in both departments was needed at the defensive back position.

People haven’t mentioned Rory Anderson or Curt Maggitt much since each visited Tennessee last weekend. Rory Anderson is a tight end/athlete type from the talent rich state of Georgia. Anderson is a prospect that over time will develop into a solid SEC tight end . Many have felt at different times during the summer and fall that Anderson has been a Tennessee silent commitment. In a year where every spot in Tennessee's signing class is uber-important, do you make room for a prospect like Anderson that is clearly a year or two away from making contribution at a position of need? It will be interesting to see if Tennessee takes Anderson’s commitment. He is down to South Carolina and Tennessee.



Anyone who has kept up with my posts of late knows X thinks a lot of defensive end prospect Curt Maggitt. He has tremendous potential as a defensive end/ pass rush specialist type of player.. an area where Tennessee is lacking. Maggitt , who is from Florida, is a prospect the new Florida staff covets. He has three former teammates that signed with Florida last season and Florida just offered a scholarship to one of his current teammates. I still don’t know if that will be enough to keep Maggitt in state. Maggitt plans to visit Florida on January 28th. The fly in the ointment is Maggitt is not planning to make a decision until after National Signing Day. It is a three team race until the finish (Florida, Tennessee, and Wisconsin) and I expect Maggitt to leave Florida to play his college football.

From the weekend, it looks like Tennessee made headway with running back prospect Marlin Lane from Daytona Beach, Florida. From the last week of the regular season, through the bowl game, and the departure of David Oku from the team, signing a second running back in this class seems to have taken over as recruiting priority #1. Looks like a two team race between Tennessee and Florida State and looking a Florida State’s running back depth chart (3 running back commitments to date) and already one running back committed for 2012) one would think Tennessee is a slam dunk. Not so fast. Lane is a Florida kid and when Florida State is experiencing good times some kids just want to go there regardless of what the depth chart looks like. Also, I wouldn’t count Miami out of the mix for Lane yet either. However, the longer Miami goes with uncertainty in its offensive staff, the less of a chance I give them with a talent like Lane. One thing I can say.. hats off to Darin Hinshaw for keeping Tennessee is the mix for both Curt Maggitt and Marlin Lane.

So lets chat about Gabe Wright. The good news is Wright made it to campus with family members in tow last weekend and had a great official visit. This is big for Tennessee because Wright is close to his family and many believe certain family members will play a major role in his final decision. Wright appears to be torn between Auburn, who has been the leader for such a long time in Wright’s recruitment, and Tennessee, a place where he appears to be comfortable and immediate playing time is about as certain as a humid summer in the Southeast. Listen, we all have our opinion where Wright ends up but lets don’t get ahead of ourselves. Wright is taking his official visit to Auburn on the 28th. If Wright comes through that weekend still uncommitted, the Sunday night leading up to the morning of National Signing Day will seem like an eternity waiting on his decision. The way I see it is you have two programs that from the outside look to be headed in opposite directions. Last season was a once in a lifetime season for Auburn. Staring at possible NCAA issues of some sort and the loss of many key players through graduation and to the NFL draft, Auburn will have a tough go of it in the SEC west. Tennessee, on the other hand, is a young team fun to watch but needs in the worst way for one or two defensive tackle prospects to play a major role next season. Getting solid play for the defensive tackle position could mean the difference between a winning season and a very good season. Right now, I give Tennessee the edge. Lets see if he doesn’t cede to the pressure from Auburn coaches and commit the weekend of his official visit.

With respect to Cameron Clear and Antonio Richardson, Tennessee has done an excellent job recruiting each prospect. Nothing that happens in recruiting really surprises me anymore, though I would be surprised if Cameron Clear does anything but choose Tennessee. Also, I'm beginning to warm up to the thought of Richardson ending up at Tennessee. Right now, I think Alabama and others are chasing Tennessee.


Looking Ahead


Tuesday evening is early in the week to be project official visitors especially as crazy as recruiting is this time of the cycle. The big news is Lamar Dawson has moved his Tennessee official visit date up from January 28th to this weekend. This is good news for Tennessee. Considering that because of the weather the last recruiting weekend of the 2010 for Tennessee was a near disaster. You don’t want one or two of your primary targets having major weather /travel concerns during the last recruiting weekend of the recruiting cycle before all goes quiet.


With Dawson, who by the way is clearly the Number 1 linebacker prospect on Tennessee's remaining board, I'm beginning to think he is one of those prospects getting tired of the process, phone calls, and all that goes with being a big time recruit. He is the one linebacker prospect left on the board that you definitely take. He likely plays early for you next season. With the other linebacker prospects remaining on the board, my guess is Tennessee would want to look at whats left on the big board and possibly wait until next year on linebackers.


The other notable uncommitted official visitor this weekend is defensive tackle Mickey Johnson from Louisiana. Johnson is interesting. He is a raw prospect with loads of potential. The rap on Johnson is academic issues will punch his ticket to junior college or prep school. Tennessee people think Johnson is not that far away from having his academics in order. Tennessee appears to be recruiting Johnson harder than any of his current suitors.


Expect committed prospects like running back Tom Smith and defensive tackle Allan Carson to be on campus for their official visits. Carson is an interesting prospect and one to watch going down the stretch.


I will have more on official visitors later in the week when the visit lists start to take shape. I still expect another defensive lineman and wide receiver/athlete type not mentioned with Tennessee for awhile to visit between now and January 28th.


This weekend and for sure Sunday evening I will have an eye on the official visitors leaving Tennessee but I will also have an eye peeled on Tennessee targets visiting other schools. For instance, Tennessee safety/defensive back target Byron Moore is visiting Miami this weekend. I'm most worried about Moore’s visit to Miami as I think the ""U is a serious player for Moore.

Running back target Marlin Lane is headed to Florida State for his official visit.

Defensive Back target Geraldo Orta is headed to Clemson for his official visit. You wonder what Orta is thinking after the Lanier commitment


Cameron Clear is visiting Alabama . Tennessee has to be worried though I think all is well here with Clear.


Check back for more later in the week.'


'x'
'X' Says:'Closing Out One Recruiting Weekend and Looking Ahead to the Next

After the commitment Monday evening of 4- star junior college defensive back Izaeua Lanier, Tennessee has 7 spots left in this 2011 recruiting class. Lanier is a good pickup. Much like Maurice Couch (junior college defensive tackle committed to Tennessee) Lanier has three years of eligibility at Tennessee. An SEC caliber defensive back prospect who considered Auburn (formerly an Auburn commitment), Florida, and the Mississippi schools prior to declaring for Tennessee, Lanier will be expected to compete for a starting position when he walks on campus this summer.

Why take Lanier you ask? Number of reasons for sure. First, Tennessee had trouble last season having more than 4 or 5 defensive backs available for duty. One of those kids was a baseball player that hadn’t put on a football helmet on before last August in 3 or 4 years. Next, at least one committed defensive back prospect is not out of the woods yet with respect to having all his academics and entrance requirements in order. Another defensive back prospect Tennessee would like to sign has his own set of troubles qualifying, had 5 months to get things in order, and he still isn’t in school nor is a slam dunk to be eligible by June. Lastly, seems two common denominators the committed defensive backs have are speed and athleticism. Tennessee coaching staff is saying with all the defensive back commitments that an upgrade in both departments was needed at the defensive back position.

People haven’t mentioned Rory Anderson or Curt Maggitt much since each visited Tennessee last weekend. Rory Anderson is a tight end/athlete type from the talent rich state of Georgia. Anderson is a prospect that over time will develop into a solid SEC tight end . Many have felt at different times during the summer and fall that Anderson has been a Tennessee silent commitment. In a year where every spot in Tennessee's signing class is uber-important, do you make room for a prospect like Anderson that is clearly a year or two away from making contribution at a position of need? It will be interesting to see if Tennessee takes Anderson’s commitment. He is down to South Carolina and Tennessee.



Anyone who has kept up with my posts of late knows X thinks a lot of defensive end prospect Curt Maggitt. He has tremendous potential as a defensive end/ pass rush specialist type of player.. an area where Tennessee is lacking. Maggitt , who is from Florida, is a prospect the new Florida staff covets. He has three former teammates that signed with Florida last season and Florida just offered a scholarship to one of his current teammates. I still don’t know if that will be enough to keep Maggitt in state. Maggitt plans to visit Florida on January 28th. The fly in the ointment is Maggitt is not planning to make a decision until after National Signing Day. It is a three team race until the finish (Florida, Tennessee, and Wisconsin) and I expect Maggitt to leave Florida to play his college football.

From the weekend, it looks like Tennessee made headway with running back prospect Marlin Lane from Daytona Beach, Florida. From the last week of the regular season, through the bowl game, and the departure of David Oku from the team, signing a second running back in this class seems to have taken over as recruiting priority #1. Looks like a two team race between Tennessee and Florida State and looking a Florida State’s running back depth chart (3 running back commitments to date) and already one running back committed for 2012) one would think Tennessee is a slam dunk. Not so fast. Lane is a Florida kid and when Florida State is experiencing good times some kids just want to go there regardless of what the depth chart looks like. Also, I wouldn’t count Miami out of the mix for Lane yet either. However, the longer Miami goes with uncertainty in its offensive staff, the less of a chance I give them with a talent like Lane. One thing I can say.. hats off to Darin Hinshaw for keeping Tennessee is the mix for both Curt Maggitt and Marlin Lane.

So lets chat about Gabe Wright. The good news is Wright..................... (tune in tomorrow right here for more)'

'x'
'X' Says:'As National Signing Day 2011 approaches, the sprint to the finish line for Tennessee begins in earnest today. Ten (10) prospects give or take one are expected to make their official visits to Tennessee.


This weekend is the first of three huge recruiting weekends for Tennessee.


What a dilemma to have if you are in Coach Dooley's shoes. In a full fledged numbers crunch, Tennessee is faced with trying to decide which is more important.... who they want, what they need, or is there really a difference.


By my count, Tennessee has six scholarships remaining to give in this class. Sure you can add two scholarships if you believe Tennessee will sign and place two prospects that have academic issues. Can the numbers get any dicier? Sure they can. What if Tennessee is holding one of those six spots for defensive back Eddrick Lofton? Lofton is a player Tennessee loves, who has had his own academic adventure in getting into Tennessee. Tennessee can't afford to take a player whose academics are a question mark heading into the summer.


Overall, it is a nice mix of prospects on campus this weekend. Of the prospects currently expected, five are prospects who have been committed to Tennessee for months. The uncommitted prospects visiting this weekend are prospects at need positions. If Tennessee lands any one or two of these prospects, it could turn a solid recruiting class into an outstanding recruiting class.


The other interesting factoid that may interest only me is that six of the prospects making their official visits are from the state of Florida. Thank goodness Tennessee caught a break and the weather is apparently going to improve Saturday and Sunday. At least now it appears the weather will at least be sunny and mild part of the time. The other positive is its a home basketball weekend with ESPN Gameday on site. The Tommy Bowl should be rocking Saturday afternoon.


Here is a brief snapshot of the prospects on campus this weekend. First, the committed prospects.


Tom Smith , Running Back Apopka, Florida; Pat Martin, defensive back, Greenville, South Carolina; Brian Randolph, defensive back, Atlanta, Georgia; defensive linemen Trevarrius Saulsberry and Jordan Williams teammates from Gainesville, Florida. Smith's recruitment was much like that of Tennessee freshman Justin Worley. Smith was, is, and has been the #1 running back on Tennessee's board since he camped at Tennessee this summer. Martin and Randolph are very much in the same category as Smith and Worley. Regardless of rankings, Tennessee evaluated the player, made them each a priority, and is glad to have their commitments.


Saulsberry and Williams are interesting. Teammates who play for a high school that is literally a stones throw from the University of Florida campus were not recruited by the previous coaching staff at Florida. Both kids had excellent senior seasons. Florida and Miami have tried hard to get involved with Williams but he has remained solid to Tennessee. Both these kids have a chance to play early at Tennessee.


Now for the uncommitted prospects.


Cameron Clear, Tight End/Athlete, Memphis, Tennessee. X believes Clear was the best high school football player in the state of Tennessee last football season. He is a must get for Tennessee though it doesn't appear Auburn and Alabama are going away without a fight. He plans on taking official visits to both schools over the next two weekends.


Gabe Wright, Defensive Tackle, Columbus, Georgia. Wright has been ticketed to go to Auburn since last summer according to many analysts. Yet, he publicly remains uncommitted and seems to be loving every minute of it. I do think it comes down to Tennessee or Auburn and every day that goes by where Wright is still undecided I give Tennessee a little bit more of a chance. It will be worth watching this weekend to see what family members accompany Wright to Knoxville. Some in his family are sold on Tennessee. Wright is a prospect that could really change the dynamics of Tennessee's recruiting class if they could sign him.




Curt Maggitt, Defensive End, West Palm Beach , Florida. Maggitt played for one of the best football programs in the state of Florida. Dwyer High School consistently churns out Division 1 football players each year. At 6'3" 220 lbs, Maggitt has terrific speed and impresses with the effort that he plays with on each and every play. He is a tremendous athlete and played tight end on offense. This is the speed rush defensive end prospect that has been missing from Tennessee's defense. Tennessee has sprung out of nowhere in Maggitt's recruitment. Maggitt fills a void.... now do we have space.


Tim Jernigan, defensive tackle, Lakeland, Florida. Jernigan is considered a long shot but as the old saying goes anything can happen once you get them to campus. Credit the coaching staff for making Tennessee relevant in Jernigan's recruitment. Though you don't expect it, Jernigan is a player you definitely make a place for in the signing class. He played at 280 lbs in the ARMY All American Football Game and didn't look like he was carrying any bad weight.


Kent Turene, linebacker, Lauderdale Lakes, Florida. Turene surprised many recruitniks by committing to Southern California early in the process. Of late, Turene has backed off his commitment and has opened up his recruitment. Tennessee is one school that has never stopped recruiting Turene. Their effort is being rewarded with an official visit to Knoxville this weekend. Tennessee would really like to sign a dynamic linebacker who has the potential to contribute this fall. Turene fits that bill.


So there is a look at the ten prospects expected to be on campus this weekend. Now, don't be surprised if a name or two is added to the visit list. For instance, Tennessee wants another running back in this class. A prospect like Marlin Lane from Daytona Beach, Florida, who is committed to Clemson could show up. Lane looks like the running back who sits atop what remains of Tennessee's running back board. With the state of Clemson's offense and the likelihood that another sub par season in 2011 spells doom for Dabo, Lane could explore his options before signing day. Lane is another prospect you find a place in your signing class. He is one of the top five 2011 running backs in Florida and would be a huge pickup for a Program with Head Coach who wasn't happy with the running game at the end of last season.'


later

'x'
'X' Says:'Neither sleet, snow, rain, nor confounding airline schedules can stop the final installment of Basilio’s 12 for 2012. Hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and survived the Music City Bowl.

As with the previous three reports, we’ll kick off the fourth and final 12 for 2012 by profiling two in state prospects. It is early in the 2012 recruiting cycle and these Tennessee kids are not well known. However, twelve months from now both could very well be household names.
Jay Guillermo, (6’3” 285 lbs) Maryville High School, Maryville, Tennessee (Offensive Lineman). Guillermo may be one of the best offensive line prospects in Tennessee’s backyard many have heard very little about. Guillermo popped up on a few college radars last summer with his performances in summer camps he participated in through the south and southwest. Several ACC and SEC schools (including Alabama) scouted Guillermo during Maryville’s march to their most recent state title. Over the holiday and into the first part of 2011, Guillermo is participating in the Gridiron Classic Combine (Charleston, SC) and then will head to San Antonio for the Army All-American combine. Guillermo is a quality prospect.

Caleb Azubike (6’5” 225 lbs) McGavock High School, Nashville, Tennessee. (Position Defensive End/Linebacker). Tennessee fans will begin to hear Azubike’s name on a regular basis. Azubike is athletic, fast, and very raw as football prospect. He will perform well at combines and skills camps and will most certainly catch the eye of college recruiters. Tennessee will continue to evaluate Azubike this spring, into the summer and will most certainly want to see him in action next fall. He played defensive end last season at McGavock though his best position could be at outside linebacker in college.


Geno Smith (6'0" 165 lbs) St. Pius X High School, Atlanta, Georgia (Position- Cornerback) . Good news is Smith likes Tennessee, he holds a scholarship offer from Tennessee, he made an unofficial visit for the Tennessee-Alabama game this past fall, and sees an opportunity to play very early at Tennessee. The not so great news is Smith has something on the order of twenty scholarship offers now and he is not a secret to any of the SEC or many other major FBS programs. Smith reportedly runs a 4.4/forty and is one of the best in Atlanta whether you’re talking basketball or football. His meal ticket at this time appears to be football but that could change. He is very thin and needs work in a strength and conditioning program. If things hold, expect Smith to be back on campus during calendar year 2011 to get to know the program and coaches on a more personal basis. His unofficial visit last fall was his first trip to Tennessee's campus. Smith is a big time prospect and he could be the best defensive back prospect in Georgia for 2012.




Channing Ward (6'4" 235 lbs) Aberdeen High School, Aberdeen, Mississippi (Position- Defensive End). The state of Mississippi is loaded with football prospects that will be attracting lots of attention from college recruiters in 2012. One of the best is Channing Ward. Tennessee staff did an excellent job of identifying Ward as a prospect of interest early on (no wonder as a sophomore he recorded 16 sacks) and getting him to campus last summer for an unofficial visit. Last summer, Ward camped at Mississippi State, Alabama, LSU, and Ole Miss. Ward hit it off with certain members of the Tennessee staff. He has a Tennessee offer and right now though its early Tennessee is thought to be one of the top two or three schools Ward is considering. Expect him back this spring and/or over the summer for camp.

Dakota Ball (6’2” 285 lbs) Pepperell High School, Lindale, Georgia. (Position – Defensive Tackle). Ball stunned many earlier this calendar year when he verbally committed to the University of Alabama as a junior in high school. Before he committed, both Tennessee and Georgia were thought to be serious contenders for his commitment. Ball, who could be the top prospect on the defensive side of the ball in Georgia for the class of 2012, has been on Tennessee’s campus. Tennessee likes this prospect and will most certainly continue to recruit him. This is one recruitment that is a long way from being finished.
Eddie Goldman, (6’4” 305 lbs) Friendship Academy, Washington, DC. (Position Defensive Tackle). At this early juncture, Goldman is already the holder of over twenty – five scholarship offers including one from Tennessee. He is a huge kid and an athletic clogger upper along the defensive front who is likely to be rated as the best defensive tackle in the country for 2012. Right now, he does not have any early favorites but will likely look hard at Notre Dame, Penn State, Ohio State, Alabama and others including Tennessee.

Barry Sanders, Jr. (5’10” 190 lbs) Heritage Hall High School, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. (Position Running Back). Some may think it is a reach to include Sanders, Jr. here but honestly he has already listed Tennessee in the top three schools in which he has interest.. and he does have a Tennessee offer. Sanders, Jr. is exactly what a Tennessee offense needs and has been missing for years. A running back/athlete who with the ball in their hands is a threat to score from anywhere. Sanders Jr. is also another one of those “go watch his tape” prospects. It is worth your time.

Dante Fowler (6’3” 225 lbs) Lakewood High School, St. Petersburg, Florida. (Position - Defensive End) Fowler is a 2012 top five prospect in the state of Florida. Fowler burst on the scene last summer with his performance(s) at skills camps. He further solidified himself as a top 2012 prospect with a solid junior campaign. Fowler is verbally committed to Florida State but it is way too early to draw much from that commitment. Many of top rated prospects like Fowler verbally commit to a school to ease a bit of the pressure the high profile uncommitted prospects face through their junior and senior years of high school. Also consider, there are so many coaching situations in flux now. I feel certain at the conclusion of the 2011 season will bring these same chaos. Coaching movement could impact Fowler’s early decision. Every school in the Southeast and across the country will go after Fowler he is that kind of prospect…. loads of potential.

Chris Humes (5’10” 180 lbs) Spain Park High School, Hoover, Alabama (Position – Cornerback) Humes may be the top 2012 lock down corner back prospect in Alabama. First thought, Humes won’t get out of the state of Alabama to play college football. Maybe not so fast here. Alabama is very young in the secondary and have 4 defensive backs committed in their 2011 recruiting class. Auburn is similar and they too are planning to load up on defensive back prospects in its 2011 recruiting class. This may open the door for a Tennessee or LSU or another school to step in and become a player in the recruitment of Chris Humes.

Taylor McNamara (6’5” 240 lbs) Westview High School, San Diego, California. (Position - Tight End) Tennessee’s search for a difference making tight end will likely lead them to all points including the west coast in 2012 and specifically to Westview High School in San Diego. McNamara is a 2012 version of a Jay Rome prospect with about 20 pounds of additional bulk. McNamara is already known by recruiters from coast to coast. SEC schools like Tennessee, Florida, and Kentucky are already in the mix.

Juwan Rogers, (6’0’ 220 lbs) Amite High School, Amite, Louisiana. (Position Linebacker). As far as the state of Louisiana goes, some things really never change. In 2012, Louisiana offers another bountiful crop of football prospects that will be sought after by SEC programs as well as programs from across the country. One of the top linebacker prospects from Louisiana, Juwan Rogers, is already receiving interest from Tennessee and others SEC schools like Arkansas, and of course LSU. Rogers is a big kid that excels at linebacker and is a very competent running back. Look forward to hearing more about Rogers over the next twelve months.

Leonard Williams, 6’5” 230 lbs Mainland High School, Daytona Beach, Florida. (Position Defensive Lineman). When the bowls season concludes and the coaching carousel settles down, Leonard Williams will likely receive offers from most major programs in the Southeast. Williams is a very active defensive lineman who has a great frame for a defensive line prospect. In college, Williams could be a pass rusher or he could gain weight and move inside to a defensive tackle. Williams needs to work on conditioning and technique as do most high school prospects. Williams is another in a long line of big time high school defensive line prospects coming out of Florida in 2012.

Daniel Taylor (5’7” 170 lbs) Lutcher High School, Lutcher, Louisiana. (Position All Purpose Back). Taylor, who has been a fixture in Lutcher’s offense since his freshman year, is likely a 2012 top five prospect in Louisiana. Like Sanders, Jr., Taylor is the type of running back Tennessee is looking to sign in its 2011 recruiting class. Again like Sanders Jr., Taylor’s tape is fun to watch and he has an offer from Tennessee. As a side note, it’s going to be interesting to see how Tennessee fares going head to head with LSU, Arkansas, Ole Miss and other SEC schools for Louisiana prospects. Though LSU gets most of the prospects they want, they don’t or can’t sign them all. The “next tier” of football prospect from Louisiana is very good and capable of playing SEC football too. Tennessee has either offered or close to offering scholarships to at least six, 2012 prospects from the state of Louisiana and we aren’t even officially into the 2012 recruiting cycle. Terry Joseph has excellent contacts in the state we know that. He does need to reel in and bring a couple of Louisiana prospects to Knoxville to play their college football.



Dillon Gordon (6'5" 245 lbs) John Curtis High School, River Ridge, Louisiana. (Position - Tight End). Gordon is a little under the radar as he spent part of last season recovering from a foot injury that slowed him down. He is a big target who may grow into an offensive or defensive lineman by the time he reaches college. Still, Gordon sees himself as a tight end. Gordon is drawing interest though most schools, Tennessee included, will likely wait to evaluate Gordon further this spring and beyond. When healthy, Gordon is a legitimate SEC caliber prospect.

So this wraps up the fourth and final installment of 12 for 2012. We hope each and every one of you found this interesting and bridges the gap between the beginning and the end of the dead period. Later this week, my focus gets back to 2011 recruiting. The Under Armour (couple days) and ARMY High School All American games (weekend) are coming up very soon. So what have we learned about 2012? In my opinion, there is a lot of football talent in the states that border Tennessee to the west, east, northeast and south. Don't get me wrong Tennessee prospects like Drae Bowles, Brian Kimbrow, Nathan Cole, Ben Still, I'tavius Mathers can play for most FBS programs. Tennessee has high school football talent.. But the drop off from that first tier to the second tier is dramatic. In states like Georgia, Florida, Louisiana and (North Carolina and Mississippi in 2012) the quantity and quality of high school football talent available for colleges to vie for is, well, downright sickening it’s so good...




Many of these prospects profiled in these four reports will be household names for those who follow Tennessee recruiting by spring practice. Tennessee will be deeply involved in the recruitment of more than just a handful of these kids. You'll be able to follow Tennessee's recruitment of many of these kids right year over the next few months. That’s our commitment.'


Until later
‘X’
'X' Says:'A day late but never a dollar short here is the third installment of “12 for 2012”. Before we get into it, a dark time lies ahead for us that live and breathe recruiting. Today, December 17th and December 18th starts a NCAA mandated “Quiet Period” Then, December 20th through January 3rd is a NCAA mandated “Dead Period” . Then January 9th through January 13th is also a limited contact period because of the NCAA coaches’ convention. Here is the difference between the two.

During the "quiet period" off campus contact a between coaches and prospective student athletes, speaking about football here, is not allowed. On campus are still allowed through this weekend though. The "dead period" is a period where there is no physical contact on or off campus between coaches and prospective student athletes. Coaching staffs are allowed one phone call per week with prospects plus communication through mail. After the 13th, it is full speed ahead until the Sunday before the 2011 National Signing Day. Then, a new recruiting cycle begins and all attention turns toward the class of 2012. So, my advice is enjoy the time, remember why we celebrate the season, and take it all in.

With that said, you have the third part of 12 for 2012.
As always, X likes give the deserving in state prospects their due. I don’t just throw an in state prospect in unless they can play. In my opinion, each of these kids will be prominent football recruits in 2012. In the third installment of 12 for 2012, I am profiling three in state prospects who may be the best at their respective positions in 2012 in Tennessee.

I’tavuis Mathers (6’0” 182 lbs) Blackman High School, Murfreesboro, Tennessee. (Position Running Back). Mathers is going to be a fun prospect to watch grow and develop between now and the completion of his senior year. Mathers is a workout warrior who made quite the name for himself this past summer at NIKE Skills Camps. Mathers is quicker than he is fast through he has been clocked in the 4.5/40 area and has put up numbers that make you raise your eyebrow as a junior. These numbers have been put up against fairly tough mid-Tennessee football competition. Mathers is a top ten prospect in the state of Tennessee for 2012 now. As mentioned above, expect Mathers to be one of if not the top 2012 running back prospect in the state. Schools like Tennessee, South Carolina, Mississippi, and others are evaluating Mathers. Solid prospect.

Brandon Hill (6’5” 340 lbs (and growing) Manassas High School, Memphis, Tennessee. (Offensive Lineman). If Hill isn’t the best offensive line prospect in the state for 2012 (Ben Still may have something to say about this), he is certainly one of the biggest. Hill is a giant of an offensive line prospect that has already caught the eye of many a college recruiter in the Southeast. According to his coaches, Hill is one of the most athletic linemen coming out of Memphis in years. I think we have heard this before. For a prospect of Hill’s age, there is a concern about him carrying so much weight. Some believe it will take a few years of maturation before his athleticism catches up with his massiveness. Recruiters will be paying close attention to Hill during the spring evaluation period and summer camps. Most SEC schools including Tennessee and Alabama are evaluating.

Chad Voytik (6’1” 185 lbs) Cleveland High School, Cleveland, Tennessee. (Position Quarterback) One of states’ best prospects at any position for 2012. Voytik was named the top 2012 quarterback prospect at the Army All American Combine he participated in earlier this year. Maybe a little undersized, Voytik possesses exceptional arm strength. Voytik is being evaluated by most of the SEC schools and already holds offers from Mississippi State and Vanderbilt. Voytik is one of those kids you pull for. He grew up just like me and many other readers. A kid who lived and died with the Big Orange (I believe I had it better because I had John Ward and well kids today don’t). Tennessee is recruiting Voytik and he has Tennessee unofficially many times. A couple of other quarterback prospects (Zeke Pike, Gunner Kiel to name two) are higher rated and ahead of Voytik on the early quarterback recruiting board right now.

DJ Humphries (6’5” 265 lbs) Mallard Creek High School, Mallard Creek, North Carolina. Another in a long line of talented football prospects produced by the state of North Carolina. Humphries will grow into an offensive tackle by the time he sets foot on a college campus in 2012. Tennessee has been recruiting Humphries almost as long as the staff has been in place. He also camped at Tennessee last summer and is likely to do the same this summer. Already receiving interest from the likes of Tennessee, North Carolina, LSU, Ohio State, Virginia Tech and many others, Humphries will become a national recruit by the time his senior season rolls around. Look for Humphries to be back at Tennessee this spring. Expect Tennessee to be in the mix for Humphries for a long time.


Daniel Ross (6'5" 240 lbs) Jeffersontown High School, Jeffersontown, Kentucky (Position Defensive End /Tight End). Kentucky is not a state that traditionally produces a ton of high profile high school prospects. However, 2012 may be an exception. In a previous 12 for 2012, we profiled Zeke Pike who is one of the top 2012 quarterback prospects in the country. Now, enter Daniel Ross. Ross is another Kentucky prospect readers will surely hear more about over the next recruiting cycle. Ross is a big kid with an athletic body who could play football or basketball in college. On the football field, Ross has the athleticism to play tight end or defensive end. He'll need to add weight and surely make a decision on which path to college is best for him. Ross already holds an offer from Kentucky but in interviews has mentioned he may leave the state to pursue his college interests. SEC schools are evaluating Ross.

Devon Johnson (6’0” 210 lbs) Richlands High School, Richlands, Virginia. (Position Linebacker). Simply put, Devon Johnson is a football player. During the season just concluded, Johnson stood out at Richlands High as a running back where he received all-district and all-Southwest Virginia recognition. However, many analysts believe Johnson is a better college prospect at the linebacker position than running back. He saw plenty of time as an inside linebacker which is likely to be his position at the in college. Also, he comes from one of Virginia’s best high school programs. Virginia Tech and North Carolina will be tough to beat but look for Tennessee to be involved.

Leonard Floyd (6”4” 220 lbs) Dodge County High School, Eastman, Georgia. (Position Defensive End) In a state loaded with top flight football talent going into 2012 , Leonard Floyd is projected to be one of the best of the best. Floyd may be the top weak side defensive end/outside linebacker type prospect in the state of Georgia for 2012.. possibly one of the best in the entire Southeast. He has tremendous speed and athleticism though he needs to add weight. Floyd will be able to go anywhere in the country to play college football. Alabama and Georgia look to be the early leaders.

Kenderius Whitehead (6’4” 210 lbs) Monroe Area High School, Monroe, Georgia. (Position Defensive End/Outside Linebacker). Tennessee knows all about Kenderius Whitehead and has been evaluating/recruiting him for approximately one year. Some of our coaches have been evaluating him longer. Whitehead is a tall rangy prospect who could just as easily end up playing an outside linebacker in college as he could play defensive end. All seems to be a function of how much weight he can gain and is comfortable carrying. Whitehead is a raw prospect now but, as many of these prospects do, have loads of potential. He'll have to learn much better technique because he won’t be able to get by on shear athleticism in college as he does now. Notre Dame may be a little ahead of other schools right now and looks to have the early inside track on Whitehead.

Quay Evans (6’2” 295 LBS) Morton High School, Morton , Mississippi (Position Defensive Tackle). A note here to all the readers. Mississippi may have to best crop of is defensive line talent (athletic ends and tackles) in the entire Southeast if not the country for 2012. Quay Evans is a name you'll hear much about next year as most every college in the South and Southwest will pursue him. Evans may be the best of the bunch coming out of Mississippi next year. First, this kid can really play. He has ridiculous sack and tackles numbers as a junior in most tape I watched he was consistently double and triple teamed. Second, if you crave recruiting drama, my man Quay is your guy. As a sophomore, he committed to Ole Miss then de-committed. He proclaimed Mississippi State his leader much of his junior year. However, he unofficially visited Alabama practically every Saturday they open the gates in Tuscaloosa or Birmingham this past fall. Now, Evans mentions Auburn, Florida State and a host of other schools to boot. We need a couple like this to follow every year. Nonetheless, Evans is a player that every major college in the Southeast is interested in landing.


Josh Harris (6'2" 200 lbs) Mason County High School, Maysville, Kentucky (Position - Running back/ Linebacker). Josh Harris may be the best overall athlete in the state of Kentucky for 2012. Harris will likely have the opportunity to play running back or linebacker in college. Recently named the Kentucky Class 3A District 7 player of the year, Harris is already receiving heavy interest from Ohio State, Kentucky among others. Tennessee and plenty other schools are evaluating Harris.

Daniel Bostick (6'2" 220 lbs) , John Carroll Catholic High School, Birmingham, Alabama. The 2012 linebacker prospects in Alabama everyone knows are Reggie Ragland and Kwon Alexander. Ragland and Alexander are not only top prospects in Alabama but prospects every school in the Southeast covets. Both say they are open to all schools; however, both will likely end up at Alabama truth be known. Bostick, for reasons mentioned below, is one of those prospects flying a little under the radar that will likely wind up leaving the state to play college football. Consider Bostick's situation, ruled ineligible to play as a freshman, he only played a handful of games his sophomore year before he broke his hand and missed the remainder of the season. In his first full year as a starter (his junior year) at middle linebacker he leads his team in tackles. Schools still don’t know a lot about him. Bostick is receiving interest already from most of the non-Alabama SEC schools as well as programs like Nebraska and Miami. This is a big linebacker prospect in an area of Alabama where Tennessee has reasonably good connections. One to watch.

Vadal Alexander, (6'5' 300 lbs) Buford High School, Buford, Georgia. (Position Offensive Tackle). This 6'5" 330 road grader is projected to be one of Georgia's best juniors. Alexander already holds Georgia, Alabama, Florida, Auburn, LSU Tennessee and others. Right now, Alexander is a big kid who plays on the offensive line and gets by on size and girth at times in high school. Coaches and analysts say Alexander has the potential to be one of the best ever produced by the state of Georgia.

Dillon Lee, (6'4" 230 lbs) Buford High School, Buford, Georgia (Position Tight End/Linebacker) Who knows exactly what position Lee will end up playing in college. More than half his receptions as a tight end have gone for scores as a tight end and as a linebacker Lee has 85 tackles, 10 tackles for losses, 5 sacks and 5 interceptions.

Lee has offers from Alabama, Miami, Clemson, North Carolina, Oregon and South Carolina. Tennessee isn’t far behind in offering Lee. Lee is an outstanding athlete that is very versatile. He could land at tight end or outside linebacker. Most believe his best position is linebacker. His size, mentality, and athleticism will make him one of the top prospects in Georgia.

With Georgia prospects Floyd, Alexander, and Lee, the in state school, the Bulldogs, is seemingly the team to beat for each prospect. I’m not so certain though. The last couple of years the Georgia assistant coaches have taken one for the team’s underwhelming on field performance. Georgia, too, during this time has had its share of off field issues. Right now, the money is on their Head Coach returning next season. If Georgia lays an egg in the Liberty Bowl and gets off to a slow start next season, the seat becomes really hot in Athens. Don’t think recruiters won’t use this against Georgia. Also, in the spirit of not looking too far ahead, Georgia hasn’t had a public football commitment for its 2011 class since mid August. I think it is time to say all is not well down in Athens.


Keith Thielemann (6'2" 285 lbs) Boyle County High School, Dansville, Kentucky. (Position - Defensive Tackle). Thielemann is a solid defensive tackle prospect. He takes up space, occupies blockers, and is the type that just clogs the middle…. a natural defensive tackle. Analysts have suggested Thielemann is athletic enough he could shed a few pounds and play fullback in college. That is unlikely to happen. He is too good a defensive tackle prospect. Once spring evaluations heat up and he attends a few summer camps, Thielemann will move up recruiting rankings/lists quickly. Kentucky naturally is already involved here but it is way early in the process and other SEC schools are just beginning to learn about Thielemann.

Cassanova "Duke" Mckinzy (6'2" 220 lbs) Woodlawn High School, Birmingham, Alabama. (Position Defensive End/Linebacker) Rarely would I waste space here on a prospect that seemingly has one team so far out in front of others in their recruitment. Though Mckinzy favors Auburn ... a lot, plenty could happen at Auburn in the next few months that could change his leader board.

Schools like UCLA, Clemson, Cal, Arkansas, Mississippi, Tennessee and others have taken note of his play are are trying to get in the door. Consider as a sophomore playing defensive end, Mckinzy was one of the state's leaders in tackles for loss and sacks. His coaches moved him to outside linebacker for his junior season to take advantage of his range and 4.5 /40 speed. Alabama is loaded with high profile defensive end and outside linebacker prospects 2012, Mckinzy is one those that may be a little under the radar. Nonetheless, he is an outstanding prospect.


Bam Bradley (6'1' 200 lbs) Trotwood-Madison High School, Trotwood, Ohio. (Position - Safety)Bradley may be the best overall prospect the state of Ohio has to offer in 2012. Analysts are already signing Bradley's praises stating he will likely contribute as a true freshman wherever he chooses to play college football. He is fast, athletic, instinctive, and a big-time hitter. He looks like a strong safety in college but could grow into a linebacker. Bradley may go a little under the radar with college recruiters as he missed part of his junior season with an injury. Bradley, who has offers from Kentucky, Tennessee, and Northwestern, is being evaluated by SEC and Big Ten schools. Expect Bradley to be on campus this spring or summer.


That is it for now. In three short weeks, we have profiled a Gunner, a Striker, a Casanova, and a BAM. What will Part 4 hold? Part 4 will look at a few more national prospects Tennessee is targeting plus I will include an update on things to look for as 2011 enters the home stretch.'


X
'X' Says:'Ready for Part Deux of the Basilio 12 for 2012? Let's hit it.

Doesn’t it just feel like recruiting season? Consider it’s the first of December, it’s freezing outside even snowing a little and the Titans are out of the playoffs. Really, though look how the landscape is changing. The Miami job is open as is Pittsburgh. Urban Meyer exiting Florida. Texas has wiped out some of their long time staff members, Clemson is a mess, Florida is a bigger mess and Kentucky even jumped into the fray by whacking a couple of assistant coaches. Be assured more coaching changes are to follow. More about 2011 recruiting later. First, let’s get to the 12 for 2012.

I always like to start with in state prospects and quarterbacks. Part Deux is no different.

Brian Kimbrow (5'9" 165 lbs) Memphis East High School, Memphis, Tennessee. (Position - Athlete) Memphis will welcome many a college recruiter in 2012 with prospects like Kimbrow, the prospects profiled in Part I (Still, et al) and prospects to be profiled in over the next 3 weeks. Kimbrow may be the best of the lot coming out of Memphis in 2012. If he is not, he is certainly on the short list. Equally dangerous as a running back, returner, or wide receiver, Kimbrow is simply a threat every time he touches the football. Kimbrow runs a sub 4.4. forty. I have heard differing 40 times on Kimbrow basically the kid is fast. Kimbrow camped at Tennessee last summer and didn’t leave Knoxville empty handed. He was offered a scholarship virtually on the spot. Tennessee, Alabama, and many others are recruiting Kimbrow. He does seem to have more than just a passing interest in Tennessee.

Nathan Cole, Jr (6'1" 180 lbs) Mitchell High School, Memphis, Tennessee. (Position Wide Receiver/Athlete). Cole is another high profile prospect coming out of Memphis that is on the recruiting board of many high level college football programs. I reviewed one set of data that listed Cole as the #4 wide receiver prospect in the country. At Mitchell High, Cole doubles as a wide receiver and defensive back. However, most recruiters believe his college football future is at wide receiver. Memphis Mitchell is one of those schools that seemingly always has a number of prospects that could play for most any of the SEC schools. Cole is the son of Memphis Mitchell Head Coach Nathan Cole, Sr. Though he has been to Alabama numerous times; Cole does have interest in Tennessee. Regardless, Tennessee has its work cut out for itself as Bama, LSU, and the other SEC West schools, and many more are recruiting Cole.

Gunner Kiel (6'4" 215 lbs (and growing) East High School, Columbus, Indiana. (Position Quarterback). Listen, X likes high profile Quarterbacks just as much as the next recruiting sheep. Kiel is likely at the top of many 2012 recruiting boards including Tennessee’s. Kiel put up monster numbers as a junior in a spread type offensive system. He is still learning to play the position and he is still growing. He already holds scholarships offers from at least twenty schools including one from Tennessee. Kiel is a big kid with a good arm and fairly good fundamentals for a high school junior/senior to be. As mentioned, he currently plays in a system where he takes most of the snaps in the shot gun and he is not the most nimble prospect outside the pocket but this kid has a world of potential. Kiel camped at Tennessee this past summer and was verbally extended an offer before he left campus. Kiel is a big time talent, a high profile recruit, you are sure to hear more about in the following months. Kiel is right at the top of Tennessee’s quarterback board. Missouri likes their chances with Kiel but Kiel likes Tennessee an awful lot.

Justin Meredith (6'5" 220 lbs) TL Hanna High School, Anderson, South Carolina. (Position Tight End/Athlete) Meredith is an athletic tight end prospect that is mentioning Tennessee as a school of interest. Meredith is a good enough athlete to play a handful of positions in college. To that point, Meredith may likely see time as senior at the quarterback position as well as tight end were he'll play in college. As with most emerging prospects in South Carolina, Clemson and South Carolina are already involved; however, Meredith has unofficially visited schools like Tennessee, Alabama, and other ACC schools. Though a year away, Meredith is an excellent student and is likely a candidate for an early enrollee.

Alex Taylor (6'4" 200 lbs) West Limestone High School, Lester, Alabama. (Position Wide Receiver/Athlete) . Taylor is an X favorite. In a state loaded with talent in 2012, Taylor is an Alabama prospect Tennessee has a legitimate shot at landing if they so choose. Taylor is a freakish athlete. At his size, he has been timed running a 10.8 in the 100 meters. Taylor plays wide receiver and safety (evens runs the ball at times) for West Limestone High. He wants to play wide receiver in college. If he continues to grow, he could wind up playing another position in college but let’s not get ahead of ourselves. Taylor is on Tennessee's radar and they have a shot here. Taylor is probably one of the better talents in the Southeast people don’t know about.

Cody Waldrop (6'3" 290 lbs) Armwood High School, Seffner, Florida. (Position - Offensive Lineman) Waldrop is one of the top 2012 offensive linemen in Florida. Most evaluations on Waldrop have the same recurring theme “Waldrop is a big, strong kid with good technique that plays like he is mad at somebody”. This kind of evaluation is music to college offensive line coaches' ears. Waldrop has already put together a top five schools of interest. Tennessee is included in his top five.

Quayvon Hicks (6'2" 260 lbs) Pierce County High School, Blackshear, Georgia. (Position Defensive End/Defensive Line) Quayvon Hicks is one more in the long line of top flight defensive line prospects coming out of Georgia in 2012. Hicks is not as well known as a few of the others but Tennessee knows a lot about Hicks. Tennessee knows enough to be the first school to offer Hicks a scholarship. Miami wasn’t far behind. Georgia, Florida and others are in the mix. There is a thought Hicks could move inside to defensive tackle in college or he could stay outside as a defensive end in a 3-4 scheme. Hicks was a standout during summer camps between his sophomore and junior seasons. I would expect Hicks to be more of a household name in recruiting circles by this time next year.

Nick Dawson, (6'2" 200 lbs) Phillip O'Berry Academy of Technology, Charlotte, North Carolina. (Position Outside Linebacker) One of my pet peeves lately regarding Tennessee's overall recruiting plan has been there lack of apparent focus on prospects in the fertile recruiting grounds of North Carolina. The trend though could be changing and that is why the Music City Bowl is so crucial for Tennessee. Enter Nick Dawson. Arguably one of the top rated prospects coming out of North Carolina in 2012, Dawson has the type of athleticism that just stands out as you watch his tape. Also, he is a big linebacker (6’2”) and Tennessee is trying to get bigger and more athletic at the linebacker position. As a sophomore linebacker, Dawson had 9 interceptions. As a junior, Dawson averaged 10 plus tackles per game and had multiple interceptions and fumble recoveries during the season. Dawson has a loose top five schools (Bama, Clemson, Kentucky, Louisville, and Tennessee). Dawson has an offer from Tennessee. Dawson has been to Tennessee for an unofficial visit and I would expect him back in the spring and then during the summer for camp.

Torrey Bell, (6’5” 220 lbs) John Curtis Christian High School, River Ridge, Louisiana. (Position Defensive End) Torrey Bell is an outstanding athlete excelling in both football and basketball. As a sophomore playing basketball, Bell averaged a double/double per game. Again, that is as a sophomore. On the football field, Bell is a legitimate high level college football defensive end playing in a basketball player’s body. Bell is that type of pass rusher off the edge that Tennessee is in dire straits to land. Tennessee with its contacts in Louisiana knew about Bell early and was the first school to offer Bell a scholarship. He is one to watch with Tennessee.

Marquise Bostic (6'3" 255 lbs) Northwest Academy, House Springs, Missouri. (Position Defensive Line). Bostic was a teammate of former Mizzou commit and now USC commit Sheldon Richardson and a defensive lineman most every high profile school in the country covets. How many times do you see a prospect start out as a quarterback and wind up possibly being the best defensive end prospect in the entire country? That is the type of athleticism you have in Marquise Bostic. The area House Springs is very close to St. Louis and in an area where Coach Chaney has loads of connections. Many believe Bostic is a better overall prospect than Sheldon Richardson and too think he could possibly play outside linebacker. Not so sure about that line of thinking. Looks to be a defensive lineman. Missouri has a tough time keeping Bostic in state in my opinion.

Vincent Valentine (6"3" 300 lbs) Edwardsville High School, Edwardsville, Illinois. (Position Defensive Tackle) . Alabama, Oregon, Tennessee, Auburn, and Illinois are just a handful of schools making plans to visit Edwardsville High School this spring to check out this run stopper. Tennessee hasn’t offered Valentine a scholarship... but an offer may not be far away. Valentine mentions Tennessee is recruiting him as hard as any school which is good to know as Tennessee needs to search high and low for quality defensive tackle prospects. Valentine is a name we are sure to hear more about during as spring evaluations turn into summer camps and beyond.

Eric Striker (6'1" 190 lbs) Armwood High School, Seffner, Florida. (Position Outside Linebacker/Strong Safety). You know a linebacker prospect having the last name "Striker" is going to make X's list. Eric Striker makes the list though because he can play. Striker is an uberathletic linebacker one of the best in Florida and the good news is he is already hearing from Tennessee. In fact, Striker may be a prospect close to the top of their list at linebacker or strong safety. What you get in Striker is the complete package. An exceptional athlete who could play multiple positions in college with excellent grades. Right now, Striker is looking at college options and appears to be one of those Florida kids who could wind up leaving Florida to play college football or baseball.


Mark Irick (6’3” 185 lbs) Calhoun County High School, St. Matthews, South Carolina. (Position – Wide Receiver) . Irick is a 6’3”-6'4”ish wide receiver who looks like a man among boys on tape. For a high school wide receiver, Irick already has above average skills catching the ball meaning he looks to catch the ball with his hands instead of his body, a technique issue with many high school receivers have trouble with when entering college. Also, Erick is a good with the ball in his hands and can make tacklers miss a little bit. Irick still has plenty to learn about the wide receiver position but he has the attention of many programs across the Southeast.

Jody Fuller (6’0” 200 lbs) Sun Valley High School, Monroe, North Carolina. (Position - Wide Receiver) Fuller is another high profile 2012 prospect produced by the state of North Carolina. As a junior, Fuller recorded 60 plus catches and double digit touchdowns playing in one of the toughest football conferences in the state. Tennessee jumped on Fuller early with an offer, though Clemson is thought to be Fuller's early leader. I certainly wouldn’t read much into an early leader with Fuller. Clemson is literally a train wreck and rumors of major staff changes seem to have legs especially on the offensive side of the ball. These changes will likely impact Fuller’s recruitment. Usually, staff goes first before the head guy gets whacked. If Dabo Swinney survives this off season, next season he is clearly on a hot seat with an AD who is very involved in all aspects of the football program.

Joel Caleb (6'2" 185 lbs) Clover Hill High School, Midloathian, Virginia (Position - Athlete)


Caleb may be the best prospect coming out of the state of Virginia for 2012. Caleb, who does a little bit of everything for the Clover Hill team, projects as a safety in college. A terrific athlete with good size, effortless elite speed who always seems to be running away from everyone. As mentioned his future is likely on defense where he is a physical, hard-hitting safety and a sure tackler. Virginia Tech will be tough to beat as they are for most of the elite players in Virginia. However, Caleb will attract suitors from all over the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic area for sure.


Now back to 2011 recruiting…... One of the reasons I like to follow recruiting is during periods when there is literally no action on the field you can always find something going on with recruiting…always. The resignation of Urban Meyer yesterday out of nowhere .. sort of is a prime example. Another reason I follow recruiting is I crave the intrigue.


First, everyone take a deep breath. Roughly seven weeks until National Signing Day. With the happenings in Gainesville yesterday, the stakes just got raised a notch. Recruiting season has officially arrived. It could only get better if Georgia gets beat by Central Florida in the Liberty Bowl (don’t laugh it could happen) and remember though we haven’t even hit the Army All American or Under Armour High School All Star games yet.

Let’s talk Tennessee. Tennessee had a great recruiting weekend last weekend. The first objective that should not be overlooked is solidifying its position with current commitments. The second and obvious objective was to help itself with official visitors Gionni Paul and Byron Moore, Jr. and unofficial visitor Marcus Jackson. Mission accomplished on all accounts. I think Tennessee comes away from the weekend with one new commitment and they gave defensive back Byron Moore, Jr. tons to consider (in the end I do believe he stays out west though).

The intrigue with me is how Tennessee prioritizes/manages the remaining spots in this class and what happens with running back and linebacker recruiting. Concerning the prospects everyone wants to know about, I believe Tennessee is in good shape with Cameron Clear, fair shape with Antonio Richardson (not as comfortable with Richardson as others seem to be ), good shape with Izzy Lanier and have work to do with Jeffrey Pagan. If Tennessee lands all four which rarely falls the way you believe it will, Tennessee has 3 maybe 4 spots to fill. The elephant in the corner is you have to wonder if Coach Dooley wishes he had a few of those early offers back. There are kids Tennessee has to keep at arms length right now while they see what their chances are for a few more high profile prospects. I know one thing if you are a Tennessee commitment and thinking about taking a visit or two do so at your own risk.

One of remaining spots will go to a running back.... figuring out which running back though is the trick. Tennessee is bent on signing another running back in this class to compliment Tom Smith. We know Coach Dooley was not thrilled with his running backs at times last season. He didn’t like his depth and at times was openly critical of his starter. His frustration mounted because he didn’t have a back up that posed a serious challenge to supplant his starting running back.


4 star running back Jeremy Hill de-committed from LSU earlier in the week then said publicly he plans to take an official visit to Tennessee initially stirred thing up then Urban Meyer resigns. Anybody besides me think running back Mike Blakely, current Florida commit, has heard from Tennessee in the last 24 hours? Also, don't forget about Kevin Grooms a Florida running back prospect Tennessee is still recruiting. All I can tell you is to continue to watch for new names. Just think since the contact period began two weeks ago we have heard Tennessee mentioned with running back prospects Marcus Caffey, the aforementioned Jeremy Hill, and North Carolina commit Romar Morris. We should mark running back prospect Mike Bellamy, who visited Tennessee, and Brendan Bigelow, also an official visitor, off our lists. Bellamy will likely stay with Clemson and Bigelow will stay out west ….. in my opinion . FWIW, LSU people I know think Tennessee is a real threat with running back prospect Jeremy Hill.

Now to the linebacker position. Talk about intrigue. Here are my thoughts and I'm being vague here I know but for good reason…. All I'm going to say is that something has happened between the last quarter of the season and the first week of the contact period that has led Tennessee to move all its chips to the middle of the table with one of the two or three linebacker prospects they covet. You can insert your own linebacker prospect here. This prospect has likely been committed to another school for some time or maybe it’s an uncommitted kid Tennessee has made an impact with its play and/or opportunity for immediate playing time. When recruiting is going well at Tennessee, this type of situation is commonplace. You have really good players that want to commit but you are looking for the player who has a chance to make an impact and be a difference maker. I think that is where Tennessee is at linebacker right now…..

One more thing and I'm out…….. You know I don’t get into the stars besides a prospects name or prospect rankings unless I'm trying to drive a point home…. With that said, I don’t see how Tennessee commitments Justin Worley, Brian Randolph, Vincent Dallas and throw Marcus Jackson in (if he were to commit) can be rated so modestly by these "recruiting services". Far from being an expert myself, these kids can play at a high level for most any program around, and their skills jumps off the tape at you.

See you here next week


Peace on earth

x'
'X' Says:Part I of IV

'Basilio had it right … sort of. 12 for 2012 is an early, first-look ahead at 2012 Tennessee recruiting targets. Think of 12 for 2012 as a starter set for 2012 recruiting of sorts. I have been watching 2011 recruiting with one eye peeled toward looking at what lies ahead.


This is a four part weekly series throughout the month of December. During the next four weeks, we’ll profile twelve high school senior to be prospects (at least) each week on Tennessee's radar. A few of these kids are hot commodities and are already attracting attention from schools across the country. Some are lesser known but still very capable prospects.


12 for 2012 will offer a mix to the readers. We'll profile lots of in-state and regional prospects but also look at a handful prospects from around the country that will end up having a bunch of stars after their names as well as long offer lists.




After a little break for the bowl game and holiday, we'll go full bore back into the final month leading up to 2011 National Signing Day.

When compared to last year at this time, Tennessee's Football Program is light years ahead in most every respect including recruiting. Sure, a few higher profile names were on the board then but in terms of prospect evaluations, a philosophy, and a comprehensive overall plan there is no comparison. In some respects in looking back, what Coach Dooley was able to do completing the 2010 class was remarkable. Even though the trail has not been a smooth one, things look bright for 2011 recruiting and beyond. Doesn’t hurt that you now have the longest current winning streak in the SEC, your team is young, with an offense that is really fun to watch. Even with all the positives, Tennessee still has relationships to cultivate and ground to cover in order to catch up with its SEC rivals.






Though it is early, I can make a few general observations about the pool of 2012 football prospects. I have to qualify this by saying it is soooo early, so much will change, names will come and go, names will slide up and down the position by position recruiting boards… but:

Tennessee is recruiting many of the "best of the best” prospects recruits in the Southeast. Many of the prospects profiled here are being pursued by the Alabama’s, Auburns, Georgia’s, Florida’s and LSUs of the world. Tennessee during the past few years has lost more of these recruiting battles than they've won. In 2012 and beyond, Tennessee needs to make a statement and win their fair of these recruiting battles with its rivals.




2012 looks to be a very good year for college football prospects in the state of Tennessee. A dozen to twenty prospects seem to be in the discussion as far as receiving high
level Division I interest. Thereafter, the state overall will produce a high number of solid football prospects;

In the "what is new department", the state of Georgia is again loaded with football prospects in 2012. Maybe not quite as good as 2011 but nonetheless still talent abounds in the Peach State. The good news is Tennessee is being prominently mentioned with many of them;

What is New Department Part II; Florida will again be a fertile recruiting ground for college recruiters. 2012 is looking to be an extraordinarily good year for defensive back/safety athlete type prospects in the state. Tennessee again is already being mentioned with some of those prospects; and,

From the rich get richer department, 2012 may be the best year for high school football prospects in Alabama since I have been following recruiting which is too long a time to mention though as usual, Alabama and Auburn will be tough to beat for the kids they want


Speaking of positions. I mentioned above how good a year 2012 is for defensive backs in Florida. Overall, 2012 looks to be another great year for offensive lineman.

While it is an early look ahead to 2012, I don’t see much of a difference in recruiting needs compared to 2011 recruiting. I do think the focus will surely be defensive ends, linebackers and athleticism across the board. Tennessee still needs to add quality depth at all positions.


With that said, let’s get right into the first edition of 12 for 2012. Why not start by profiling three in state prospects sure to be close if not at the top of Tennessee’s 2012 wish list

1) Ben Still (6’3” 275 lbs) from Memphis University School (MUS), Memphis Tennessee. (Position Offensive Lineman) . Ben Still will likely be one of the top 2012 in state prospects at any position. Still is a legacy recruit. Father Eric was a decorated offensive lineman at Tennessee in the late 1980s (Vol Captain if memory serves me) and was drafted by the real Oilers... Houston of the NFL. Still is already drawing interest from many SEC schools (Alabama, Auburn, Ole Miss as well as other schools). I wasn’t personally able to see MUS play this past fall but those that have say he has the frame to possibly move to tackle in college. Regardless of whether Still is the top prospect in Tennessee in 2012, he is a prospect Tennessee would like to get the recruitment of wrapped up sooner than later. Roads to Memphis University School will be traveled many a time by college recruiters between now and February 2012. In addition to Ben Still, teammates like Alex Dale (Safety/Athlete), Britt Colcolough (lineman), and Ben Benton (lineman) are sure to attract attention from many programs.




2) Drae Bowles (6’1” 200 lbs) from Jackson Christian High School, Jackson, Tennessee. (Position Wide Receiver/Athlete). Bowles is another high priority in state prospect high on Tennessee’s 2012 want list. Bowles is a play maker. He is dangerous taking handoffs, catching passes, or returning kicks. Bowles was one of the very first 2012 prospects Coach Dooley offered a scholarship and he is a 2012 priority. Bowles possesses excellent speed and projects as a wide receiver in college. Other SEC schools including Ole Miss and Alabama, both closer to Bowles’ hometown, will provide formidable completion for Tennessee for the next 12 to 14 months. Bowles has been to the Tennessee campus for camp and numerous times during the football season for unofficial visits.


3) Jovon Robinson (6’0” 220 lbs) from Wooddale High School, Memphis, Tennessee. (Position Running Back). Expect to hear much more about Jovon Robinson during the spring and summer when 2012 recruiting starts picking up steam. Robinson burst on the Memphis high school football scene as a sophomore, had an excellent junior season, and will be pursued by many of the major football programs across the Southeast. Alabama, Louisville, and Ole Miss have already offered. Tennessee is evaluating Robinson. You look at Tennessee’s running back situation and Tennessee doesn’t have a back built like Robinson on scholarship. He is big, thick, and has a burst (as I say go watch his take and decide for yourself) There has been discussion whether Robinson’s college future is at running back or at linebacker. Expect him to be recruited as a running back. He needs to work on his conditioning but Robinson is another in state name we’ll hear plenty for the next year for sure.


4) Jafar Mann (6’3” 280 lbs) Stephenson High School, Stone Mountain, Georgia. (Position Defensive Tackle). As mentioned above, I don’t anticipate much of a departure in 2012 from the current 2011 recruiting needs meaning expect a priority placed on recruiting defensive lineman. Mann was somewhat of an unknown commodity until he attended Tennessee’s lineman camp this past summer where he impressed our coaches who in turn immediately extended him a scholarship offer. This coupled with his on field performance this season have made Mann a top priority with many schools. Virtually every college in the Southeast has made a scholarship offer to Mann including Tennessee.


5) Landon Collins, (6’0”200 lbs) Dutchtown High School, Geismar, Louisiana (Position Safety). I always hesitate profiling any prospect from the state of Louisiana when discussing Tennessee football recruiting. Even with the best of connections to a college outside of Louisiana, most of the elite football prospects from Cajon Country have a tough time leaving... sans Janzen Jackson. However, Tennessee has some connections with this prospect and jumped on board early with a scholarship offer to Collins. Tennessee is recruiting well at defensive back as we speak. Remember Tennessee will graduate quite of bit of defensive back depth after next season and will probably lose at least another defensive back to the first round of the NFL draft. Tennessee will provide an elite safety an immediate opportunity for playing time...


6) Eli Harold, (6’4” 215 lbs) Ocean Lakes High School, Virginia Beach, Virginia. Failed to mention above that 2012 appears to be an above average year for high school football talent in the state of Virginia. Tennessee has been doing its darndest to gain a recruiting foothold in the state of Virginia. Virginia is a state that traditionally produces loads of football talent where Virginia Tech usually has its pick of the litter. Justin Hunter and his early success at Tennessee will surely help. Eli Harold is an intriguing prospect. At first glance, Harold would look like the second coming of Justin Hunter long, lanky, athletic and a little thicker. Harold though hasn’t finished growing and could likely grow into a tight end or a defensive end in college. Florida has already jumped in with an offer. Tennessee is evaluating. Eli Harold is a name we’ll hear much more about in the next few months.


7) Zeke Pike, (6’5” 230 lbs) Dixie Heights High School, Edgewood, Kentucky. (Position Quarterback). Face it. We all love to follow quarterback recruiting! Seems like hanging on every interview a highly coveted quarterback grants just has more pizzazz than an interview by a defensive or offensive lineman. The schools that land a commitment from quarterback prospects with a bunch of stars beside their name seem to gain a degree of recruiting momentum for their class. Its every interesting to me because it seems that these high school quarterback phenoms seem to wash out at a higher rate than phenoms at other positions. Pike though has a chance to be really a good one in college. Destined to be a five start prospect and already proclaimed as the best prospect in the state of Kentucky for 2012, Pike holds nearly 40 scholarship offers including one from Tennessee. By the summer when Pike makes the camp tour, he could likely be the #1 quarterback prospect in the nation for 2012. Long time to go in this recruitment but in my opinion everyone is chasing Arkansas.


8) John Theus (6’6” 275 lbs) Bolles High School, Jacksonville, Florida. (Position Offensive Lineman). Theus is another in a long line of high profile offensive lineman that Bolles High School seems to produce each and every year. Theus may be the best of the lot and watch for rankings to come out next spring because Theus may be rated as the best offensive lineman in the Southeast. The Florida schools have already jumped as has Georgia, Tennessee and Alabama. Bad news for most programs is Theus’ brother is part of the Georgia program.


9) Jonathan Taylor (6’4” 300 lbs) Jenkins County High School, Georgia (Position Defensive Tackle). I feel like I need to qualify everything here because 2012 recruiting is just getting cranked up but Jonathan Taylor is one of those prospects Tennessee seems to really like. Here is yet another prospect Tennessee's Coaching staff has connections with in the state of Georgia. You check this prospect out on video and it’s hard to imagine he still has a year of high school eligibility remaining. Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee are the leaders early. There will be more to follow Jonathan Taylor at a later date.


10) Nelson Agholor (6’1” 175 lbs) Berkeley Preparatory School, Tampa, Florida. (Position Wide Receiver/Defensive Back). Agholor is already being mentioned as one of the top prospects in the state of Florida for 2012. Nelson Agholor Is there any wonder why this prospect already has offers from the likes of USC, Georgia, Notre Dame and Tennessee to name a few? Last season, talented senior to be rushed for nearly 1,000 yards, and 14 touchdowns, had 250 receiving yards and three touchdowns, as a defensive back Agholor recorded 31 tackles and four interceptions. He also returns punts and kicks.

Agholor is being recruited on both sides of the ball, wide receiver for offense and free safety for the defensive side. He is a state of Florida top 15 type recruit and is the type of prospect that will surely be recruited by schools all over the country as you can see from his early offer list.


11) Kenyan Drake (6’0” 185 lbs) Hillgrove High School, Powder Springs, Georgia (Position Running Back). Tennessee has already jumped in the thick of Kenyan Drake’s recruitment. It’s telling that Tennessee has offered a scholarship to Drake so early. 2012 is a year where there seems to be very good running back talent in state and regionally. Drake seems to be that running back Tennessee is looking for in its 2011 class... a back that is a threat to score every time he touches the ball.


12) Brian Poole ( 5’11” 180 lbs), Bradenton Southeast High School, Bradenton, Florida (Position Defensive Back). When 2012 state rankings are published, chances are Brian Poole will be ranked as a top ten/top fifteen player in the state of Florida. Poole has been a known commodity with college recruiters since his sophomore season and did nothing to disappoint during his junior season. Poole doubles as a running back but his future looks to be as a defensive back. Virtually every school in the Southeast is looking at this prospect.



So that is the first installment of 12 for 2012….. In the spirit of the season here are just a few more prospects to watch for.....




13) Patrick Destefano, (6’4” 280 lbs) Dorman High School, Roebuck, South Carolina (Position Offensive Tackle) . Destefano will likely be the best offensive lineman in South Carolina for 2012. The in state schools (South Carolina and Clemson) have already offered Destefano a scholarship but this is a prospect that is likely to leave the state to play college football. The early leader (and be assured it is very early in 2012 recruiting) is Alabama and he appears to be given other out of state programs a hard look. Here is an X-tra for you . If Patrick Destefano is not the top offensive lineman in South Carolina for 2012, Oliver Jones is likely to be and Jones may wind up being the top overall prospect in South Carolina. Jones stands 6’6” 284 lbs and is from Ninety-Six, South Carolina. I have spent a lot of time in South Carolina and have never heard of the town Ninety-Six. Jones will likely be a nationally recruited prospect by this time next year. The in state schools may be tough to beat for Jones and but at some point Tennessee has to establish a recruiting presence in South Carolina… maybe not to the extent Tennessee is involved with prospects in the state of Georgia but South Carolina, in past years, has been fertile recruiting territory for Tennessee.


14) JaQuay Williams, (6’4” 190 lbs) Heard County High School, Franklin, Georgia (Position Wide Receiver). Williams is a long, lean, and athletic wide receiver who will be recruited as someone to stretch the field in the passing game. Williams does not have a Tennessee offer at this time but is being evaluated by Tennessee along with most high level FBS schools in the Southeast.


15) Jordan Jenkins, (6’3” 230 lbs) Harris County High School, Hamilton, Georgia (Position Defensive Lineman). Jenkins is projected to be one of the top prospects in the state of Georgia for 2012. While it’s early, there is both good news and bad news associated with Tennessee’s pursuit of Jenkins. First, the good news is Tennessee at this early date is in Jenkins’ top five. The bad news is so are schools like Oregon, Alabama, and Georgia. Jenkins is an elite talent.


16. Torey Agee, (6'4" 245 lbs) Opelika High School, Opelika, Alabama (Position Defensive End). Most of the top high school football prospects in Alabama year in and year out dream of playing for Alabama or Auburn. By all accounts, Torey Agee should be as close to a slam dunk to wind up at Auburn as any Alabama prospect could be. Consider Agee's Father, Tommie, was the starting fullback for Auburn and was a teammate of current Auburn Defensive Line Coach Tracey Rocker. However, the younger Agee doesn’t sound anything like an Auburn lock in recent interviews. Though Auburn is certainly on his list of schools he is considering so are Nebraska, Tennessee, Florida and others. This is a prospect that will be interesting to watch during the next year... what kinds of sanctions if any does Auburn receive; and does Tracey Rocker stay at Auburn or move on are just two of the interesting things to watch over the next few months. Agee is a strong side defensive end. He however does not show in the top 15 or 20 top 2012 football prospects in Alabama. Tennessee is recruiting/evaluating Agee.


More to follow......

x'
'X' Says:Basilio had it right … sort of. 12 for 2012 is an early, first-look ahead at 2012 Tennessee recruiting targets. Think of 12 for 2012 as a starter set for 2012 recruiting of sorts. I have been watching 2011 recruiting with one eye peeled toward looking at what lies ahead.


This is a four part weekly series throughout the month of December. During the next four weeks, we’ll profile twelve high school senior to be prospects (at least) each week on Tennessee's radar. A few of these kids are hot commodities and are already attracting attention from schools across the country. Some are lesser known but still very capable prospects.


12 for 2012 will offer a mix to the readers. We'll profile lots of in-state and regional prospects but also look at a handful prospects from around the country that will end up having a bunch of stars after their names as well as long offer lists.


After a little break for the bowl game and holiday, we'll go full bore back into the final month leading up to 2011 National Signing Day.

When compared to last year at this time, Tennessee's Football Program is light years ahead in most every respect including recruiting. Sure, a few higher profile names were on the board then but in terms of prospect evaluations, a philosophy, and a comprehensive overall plan there is no comparison. In some respects in looking back, what Coach Dooley was able to do completing the 2010 class was remarkable. Even though the trail has not been a smooth one, things look bright for 2011 recruiting and beyond. Doesn’t hurt that you now have the longest current winning streak in the SEC, your team is young, with an offense that is really fun to watch. Even with all the positives, Tennessee still has relationships to cultivate and ground to cover in order to catch up with its SEC rivals.


Though it is early, I can make a few general observations about the pool of 2012 football prospects. I have to qualify this by saying it is soooo early, so much will change, names will come and go, names will slide up and down the position by position recruiting boards… but:

Tennessee is recruiting many of the "best of the best” prospects recruits in the Southeast. Many of the prospects profiled here are being pursued by the Alabama’s, Auburns, Georgia’s, Florida’s and LSUs of the world. Tennessee during the past few years has lost more of these recruiting battles than they've won. In 2012 and beyond, Tennessee needs to make a statement and win their fair of these recruiting battles with its rivals.


2012 looks to be a very good year for college football prospects in the state of Tennessee. A dozen to twenty prospects seem to be in the discussion as far as receiving high
level Division I interest. Thereafter, the state overall will produce a high number of solid football prospects;

In the "what is new department", the state of Georgia is again loaded with football prospects in 2012. Maybe not quite as good as 2011 but nonetheless still talent abounds in the Peach State. The good news is Tennessee is being prominently mentioned with many of them;

What is New Department Part II; Florida will again be a fertile recruiting ground for college recruiters. 2012 is looking to be an extraordinarily good year for defensive back/safety athlete type prospects in the state. Tennessee again is already being mentioned with some of those prospects; and,

From the rich get richer department, 2012 may be the best year for high school football prospects in Alabama since I have been following recruiting which is too long a time to mention though as usual, Alabama and Auburn will be tough to beat for the kids they want


Speaking of positions. I mentioned above how good a year 2012 is for defensive backs in Florida. Overall, 2012 looks to be another great year for offensive lineman.

While it is an early look ahead to 2012, I don’t see much of a difference in recruiting needs compared to 2011 recruiting. I do think the focus will surely be defensive ends, linebackers and athleticism across the board. Tennessee still needs to add quality depth at all positions.


With that said, let’s get right into the first edition of 12 for 2012. Why not start by profiling three in state prospects sure to be close if not at the top of Tennessee’s 2012 wish list....


TOMMORROW YOU'LL GET THE FULL REPORT RIGHT HERE!

I'll give you a few extra guys to chew on since I'm feeling good today. Great day to be 'x'

'x'
'X' Says:'D’Anthony Arnett wide receiver Saginaw, Michigan is seriously announcing his college of choice today. Decision should be official by the time Tony B goes on air Today. To be honest, Arnett is the only wide receiver Tennessee is recruiting.

Arnett is the #1 wide receiver on their board and it is not even close. I don’t blame Tennessee at all. Arnett is a talented prospect. His final schools are Tennessee, Michigan State, USC, and Boise State.

This is Charlie Baggett’s guy. Baggett has connections in Michigan generally and Saginaw specifically. Then again there was yesterday and this kid has Markeith Ambles stamped on his forehead. Who knows? Plus Orgeron and Kiffin have been and will continue to be relentless in their pursuit of Arnett.

Momma likes Tennessee. Wherever Arnett ends up, I predict he’ll play next September.

Four star guy which always makes the star grazers happy.

Odds and Ends:

Though it is early in the week. It is shaping up to be a nice visit (official and unofficial) for Tennessee.

The official visitor list is still a work in process but its really no secret who is expected to be in town. Right now, Maurice Couch (JUCO defensive tackle), Allen Wysonga (running back) , and Mike Bellamy (running back/athlete) are the three likely to be on campus. There are a couple of additional names that may show up on the official visitor list but nothing is nailed down.

I expect all eyes will be on Maurice Couch this weekend. Couch is a key piece to the 2011 recruiting class. However, Bellamy is intriguing. Bellamy is a Clemson commitment. Though Tennessee has been staying in contact with Bellamy, his interest in Tennessee began to perk up when rumors of wholesale off season changes to the Clemson offensive staff began. Now, Bellamy is evaluating options.

I hope to have more for you later in the week.

So please check back.

'X'
'X' Says:'Can you believe we are roughly 90 days away from National Signing Day? Time has zipped right by since Coach Dooley inherited a mess of a football program. Tennessee faithful got one glimpse of "Coach" before he hit the road frantically trying to salvage the 2010 recruiting class. November is the calm before the storm, leading up to the second season of college football which is recruiting season. Tis the time of year when coaching changes or even rumors of coaching changes cause reverberations in the recruiting world from sea to shining sea. It’s a chain reaction that affects coaches, prospects, families, and fans. Head coaches say prospects should choose a place to play college football based upon the school not their position coach or who is their primary recruiter. Does anyone even believe that?

If you are like me, you love to hate the next 90 days. There are many days I get a knot in my stomach even thinking about turning on the television or the radio, or jumping on the Internet hitting up the national recruiting sites, and, for me, receiving text messages from people in my “network”. However, I do want more... more angst, more joy, more frustration, more sleepless nights….. More recruiting….

What follows is a look ahead to the next 90 days and what the recruiting landscape looks like for Tennessee. Much has transpired since my last update. Tennessee and a couple of committed prospects have parted ways (which was anticipated) and Tino Thomas has hopped on the train. A few of the recruiting developments that occurred are positive for Tennessee while a few well… not so much.

By my count, Tennessee has 17 commitments and roughly 10 spots left (not counting Eddrick Loften) . Let’s check in on a few Tennessee targets.

Cameron Clear, 6’5” 260 lbs, Memphis Central, Memphis, Tennessee. Offensive Lineman/Athlete. As I have stated in this forum previously, Clear has unlimited potential and is an X favorite. I didn’t feel good about Tennessee’s spot with Clear a few weeks ago. Right now though, Tennessee is in a great spot with Clear and is the front runner for his services in my opinion. He could make a decision most anytime.

Antonio Richardson, 6’6” 300 lbs, Nashville, Tennessee. (Offensive Lineman). Tennessee still remains in good shape with Richardson. I'm not worried about academics or any other issues with Richardson. Full disclosure here, I love Tennessee and following Tennessee recruiting and really hope Antonio Richardson signs with Tennessee. That being said, I would not be surprised if he winds up attending another school when it is all said and done. There are a number of factors in play so just stay tuned and things will play out. Long ways to go before a decision is made with this one. I don’t feel as good about this one as I did a few weeks ago.

Kevin Grooms, 5’10” 170 lbs, South Broward High School, Hollywood, Florida. (athlete, running back). Grooms is a prospect the “experts” have loosely connected with Tennessee. My thoughts are Tennessee is right in the thick of it with Grooms even to the point of being close to the top of his list. Expect Grooms to take an official visit to Tennessee. He may be the speed back Tennessee takes in this class to compliment Tom Smith. Darrin Hinshaw has done a fantastic job keeping the Tennessee brand relevant in Florida after the former regime blew through the state with no regard. Tennessee is a definite team to watch with Grooms.

Jaiari Dunaway, 6’2” 225 pounds Siegel High, Murfreesboro, Tennessee. First, Tennessee likes Dunaway. What is not to like. The kid has a SEC frame now. I do get the feeling though he may not be able to make it to Tennessee in the short term. Could be a sign and place if Tennessee chooses to go in that direction.

DeAnthony Arnett 6’0” 165 pounds Saginaw High School, Saginaw, Michigan. I'm becoming a believer. 3 or 4 months ago I didn’t give Tennessee much of a chance with Arnett. Now, I believe Tennessee is right at the top of his list along with Michigan State. After I realized Tennessee was a legitimately "in it” for Arnett, I went back and watched his video, excellent wide receiver prospect who is rail thin though. He probably should redshirt next year and bulk up some but he is too good a prospect to redshirt. More than a couple of people close to the program feel good about where Tennessee sits with Arnett. He would be a big time commitment if Tennessee could pull him out of Michigan. Best I can tell at the wide receiver position, Arnett is the only prospect Tennessee is pursuing. Little FYI, all Tennessee fans should recognize what a gem we have in Charlie Baggett.

Derek King, 5’10” 170 lbs, Brentwood Academy, Brentwood, Tennessee. In the end, I think Derek King winds up choosing a school other than Tennessee. Tennessee has been right in the thick of King’s recruitment since the spring. My sense of things is Tennessee has scaled back its recruitment of King. In fairness to Tennessee with the Tino Thomas commitment, Tennessee is seemingly in good shape as far as defensive back /athletes go. With limited spots available, maybe Tennessee takes another lineman in lieu of another defensive back. I believe though Tennessee would take another cornerback if they landed the right one. I don't think it is King though.

Jermauria Rasco, 6’3” 230 lbs, Evangel Christian High School, Shreveport Louisiana. defensive end.
Prospects like Rasco are tough to get a read on. Rasco hasn’t said much publicly largely because his football coach prefers his players wait until the season is over before they ramp up their recruiting processes. Rasco is one of the top uncommitted prospects in the Southeast. Tennessee has connections to that area of Louisiana. LSU will be tough to beat as will Alabama and Auburn but I wouldn’t count Tennessee out. I could see Tennessee getting a visit from Rasco and who knows after that.

Maurice Couch, 6’4” 300 lbs,. Garden City Community College, Kansas. Defensive tackle. When it comes to recruiting, anything is possible. With that said, Tennessee makes a lot of sense as a landing spot for Couch. Let’s be honest, our defensive line has gotten manhandled most every weekend since Labor Day. Tennessee has one defensive lineman as big as Couch and up to now that particular defensive lineman has been all hat and no cattle this season. Couch, if academics are in order and I understand they are, could play a lot of football next year for Tennessee. It looks to be a two team race for Couch but like all things recruiting... that could change. Every team is looking for a difference making defensive lineman. With that said, Tennessee is in a good spot with the Couch camp.

Jeffrey Pagan, 6’4” 275 lbs, Asheville High School, Asheville, North Carolina . Defensive lineman. Pagan remains committed to Florida but that is tenuous at best. Pagan has unofficially visited Tennessee on two occasions. Florida recently picked up a commitment from a defensive end who de-committed from Notre Dame a couple of weeks ago and Florida is on the verge of picking up another commitment… from a defensive end prospect. So the writing may be on the wall as far as Pagan and Florida go. Looking at Pagan and Florida, this recruitment does not seem to be one hitting on all cylinders. The interesting thing is while Pagan does have connections to Florida he has just as many connections to the Tennessee program. As I have mentioned before, there are a number of moving parts to the Pagan recruitment. Pagan has struck up a nice relationship with Chuck Smith and there is immediate playing time to be had just across the mountain and maybe not so much in Gainesville for a year of two.

Allan Wysonga, 5’8” 196 lbs, Parkersburg High School, Parkersburg, West Virginia. Running back. Wysonga is rated as the #1 prospect in West Virginia and a top twenty running back nationally but he can’t seem to land a gig anywhere. A couple of major FBS football programs have recently withdrawn their scholarship offers to Wysonga and others have backed off their recruitment. While I don’t have any personal knowledge, it appears Wysonga has more baggage than one would find in Basillio’s yard after a MLS match. Tennessee is one school that hasn’t backed away from Wysonga… yet. Wysonga is scheduled to be at Tennessee on an official visit next weekend for the Ole Miss game. I remember Coach Dooley saying once that sometimes in recruiting you have to roll the dice on a couple of prospects that have difference making potential. I don’t know if Wysonga is a difference maker. I do know he is fast and has home run potential when he gets the ball in his hands. If Tennessee takes another running back, my choice is Grooms but Wysonga is not a bad back up plan.

Gabe Wright, 6’3” 275 lbs, Carver High School, Columbus, Georgia. Defensive lineman. Tennessee covets Gabe Wright. Why not? Wright is rated as the #7 defensive tackle in the country and athletic defensive tackles who have potential to play early at most any SEC school are hard to come by. Wright holds approximately twenty offers but it appears to be a two team race – Auburn and Tennessee. Right now, Auburn is the team to beat, though some at Tennessee believe more than one person in the Wright camp appear in Tennessee’s corner. Also, remember Wright visited Tennessee this summer and has been back to campus unofficially twice this fall. You don’t do that unless there is significant interest. Even if Wright up and committed to any school tomorrow, this recruitment is far, far from over. I'm not counting Derek Dooley, Chuck Smith, and Lance Thompson out of this one by any stretch.

Eddrick Lofton, 5’10” 220 lbs. Lofton is a Vol and will be on campus in January provided his test score is in order and he gets through the Clearinghouse. Even if Lofton hits a bump with the test score, he has a plan to get to Tennessee by the summer. I think its key for Lofton to get to campus and participate in winter workouts and spring practice. Lofton is an important piece to the 2011 recruiting puzzle. Staff loves his ability and flexibility. He is athletic and not afraid of contact. He will line up as a strong safety, outside linebacker, and will contribute on special teams once he gets here.


Jay Rome, 6'5" 255 lbs Valdosta High School, Valdosta, Georgia. Tight end. Being a conspiracy theorist, I don't think it is any coincidence Tennessee parted ways with a JUCO tight end and Jay Rome continues to mention Tennessee as one of his top schools. Rome is one of the top players in Georgia and the nation regardless of position. Tennessee has a gaping hole at tight end after this season. Rome is the caliber of prospect that could step in and be a contributor early. Rome still needs to add upper body strength so he doesn't get beat up by SEC lineman but he is truly a play maker. I think Tennessee is all in with Jay Rome. This is recruitment worth watching until NSD. You get Jay Rome along with Brendan Downs and the tight end position is set for the foreseeable future.

Barron Dixon, 6’4” 255lbs, Chattahoochee High School, Alpharetta, Georgia. Strong side defensive end. As you might have figured out, Dixon is an X favorite. Dixon attended Tennessee’s lineman camp during the summer and has been back to campus unofficially at least once since camp. Dixon is an SEC caliber defensive end prospect having offers from Arkansas, Ole Miss, and Mississippi State and interest for many of the others. Tennessee hasn’t offered Dixon, though Tennessee continues to recruit him. My opinion is Dixon is a more realistic target than say a JUCO prospect like Tank Carradine. It could be a situation Coach Dooley alluded to as having more needs than scholarships available this year which is not good news for Dixon.

BJ Goodson, 6’1” 225 lbs, Lamar High School, Lamar South Carolina. Goodson is a Clemson commitment and honestly Tennessee may have showed up for the dance a bit late with Goodson. Goodman is a big-time linebacker prospect and one of the best prospects at any position in talent rich South Carolina. Goodman holds a Tennessee offer and the staff is still recruiting him. Clemson seems to have a problem with kids making commitments to them and then looking around for a better opportunity more so than most programs do (except maybe the Golden Domers). Looking at the bigger picture, Tennessee still has plenty to do if they plan on signing another linebacker prospect in this class.

Tank Carradine, 6’5” 245 lbs, Butler County Community College, Kansas Defensive End. Out of high school, Carradine was an Illinois commitment, two years and 40 pounds later Carradine is one of the most sought after JUCO players in the country at any position. He is an off the edge rusher who would be a huge pick up for Tennessee. First with most every junior college prospect one has to worry about grades and I do understand he went to junior college route due to grade issues so this is a justifiable concern. Hard to get a fix on where he stands recruiting wise. At this particular junior college, the head coach does not allow his players to get too involved in recruiting until their season is over. Tennessee is involved but I understand Florida State and Texas Tech may be the teams to beat. First things first let’s try to get him on campus for a visit. Also remember, Tennessee has connections in Cincinnati where Carradine attended high school. We’ll learn more about Carradine’s recruitment once his football season is over.


Dallas Crawford, 5'10" 180 lbs, South Fort Myers High School, Fort Myers, Florida. As Derek King may have fallen down the recruiting board, Dallas Crawford has shot up the recruiting board. He is one of the corner prospects you take if he wants to commit. Tennessee is the bridesmaid now to Michigan but stay tuned. There could be some changes at Michigan in the off season at a minimum on the defensive coaching staff that could put Tennessee front and center in Crawford's recruitment. Expect Crawford on campus for an official visit before National Signing Day.

For you star gazers….. Say Tennessee replaces the two, two star de-commitments with the likes of four star prospects such as Couch, Lofton, Arnett, Clear, and Pagan….. I'm talking to you guys who watch the stars. Probably bumps Tennessee nationally to a mid-teens type ranking. I have never taken the time to figure out how the national recruiting services come up with their rankings. Means very little to me.


There are a handful of other prospects Tennessee continues to recruit including a handful of defensive lineman and linebackers. Check back next week.

X Games……………..

Here is a little word association game for you. I will write a Tennessee commitment’s name and then write the first word or thought that pops into my demented mind about that prospect

Justin Coleman - SOLID
Brian Randolph - STUD
A.J. Johnson - SHAKY
Alan Carson - AUBURN
Mack Crowder- BIGGER PICK UP THAN YOU THINK
Jordan Williams- FINALISTS WERE TENNESSEE AND OREGON … WORKS FOR ME
Vincent Dallas- WILL MAKE SPLASH EARLY
Devrin Young - WHO LINES UP TO RETURN KICKOFFS NEXT SEPTEMBER?
Justin Worley – WOW… (WILL BE THE MOST POPULAR MAN ON CAMPUS NEXT OCTOBER)
Pat Martin - AN X FAVORITE ALREADY
Tom Smith – SEE VINCENT DALLAS (SLEEPER OF CLASS)


Until next week........

X'
'X' Says:'Tennessee will host a large number of unofficial visitors and three maybe four official visitors this weekend.


Eddrick Lofton and Justin Coleman, both Tennessee commitments, are taking their official visits because both prospects plan to enroll in January. With Coleman, grades are not a concern. With Lofton, well everyone is waiting on test score results.


Some think current Washington commitment Brendan Bigelow may take an official visit to Tennessee this weekend. Bigelow is a 5'10" 180 pound running back from Fresno, California. When healthy Bigelow was or is one of the best running backs on the west coast. However,he has undergone two reconstructive knee surgeries in the last twelve months. You really wonder how he recovers from two major surgeries and what that does to his speed and make no mistake about it Tennessee is recruiting him as a "take it to the house" type running back. I will be surprised if he shows up this weekend honestly but he could. I will also be surprised if he winds up sticking with his early commitment to the Huskies....


Many of the current Tennessee commitments will be on hand for the game as unofficial visitors. There are a number of notable uncommitted prospects that will be on hand too. Cameron Clear from Memphis is scheduled to be here. Gabe Wright, defensive tackle from Georgia everyone is all atwitter about may be here too. Again, dont get your hopes up about Wright... Still believe he is a longshot.


Don't be surprised if Asheville defensive lineman Jeff Pagan, a Florida commitment, is on campus this weekend. I have said numerous times Jeff Pagan's recruitment has a number of moving parts associated with it. If you keep up with recruiting like I do and you have read any of his comments about his recruitment, he doesnt sound very "committed" to Florida. Tennessee has never quit recruiting him though they got a really late start.


I may have other names on Friday which I will gladly pass along. So please check back. As I was telling Basilio earlier this week, the recruiting board is changing and you should expect to see a number of new names mentioned with Tennessee start coming out between now and the Ole Miss game.

'X'
'X' Says:As far as early enrollees, the numbers are still fluid.


Here is what I have


CB Justin Coleman
QB Justin Worley
C Mack Crowder


Maybes


S Brian Randolph
OL Alan Posey
DL Alan Carson
TE Andrew Power


Brendan Downs as I understand it could be an early entry but will likely opt to remain in high school to play basketball


Also, lets say if Vincent Dallas, the wide receiver/athlete from Georgia commits to Tennessee.... I understand he is an early enrollee


Defensive Tackles......


The good news is we have two defensive tackles already committed Saulsberry (from Florida) and Carson (from Alabama)


I don't have great news on where Tennessee stands with other Defensive Tackle prospects . I see Tennessee recruiting a number of good defensive tackle prospects. I don't see Tennessee involved with many of the higher profile defensive prospects. Yes, Tennessee is recruiting Gabe Wright one of the top defensive tackle prospects in Georgia. I see Auburn being his favorite right now.


Tennessee is in the top three for JUCO Defensive Tackle Maurice Couch. However, his other top schools are easier for him to get academically qualified to attend than Tennessee.


Mickey Johnson is a defensive tackle prospect from Louisiana Tennessee has been is recruiting almost since Terry Joseph got on campus. However, Alabama, LSU, and other SEC schools are recruiting him as well. Also, not exactly where he stands academically either and Tennessee cant afford an academic casualty at such a position of need.


Terry Bell, defensive tackle from Lakeland, Florida, is one in my opinion Tennessee has an excellent shot at signing. He has been at the top of my list since the spring evaluations not sure where he stands on Tennessee's pecking order right now


Another prospect Tennessee has picked up interest in is Gerald Dixon from South Carolina. Dixon has been rising on draft boards of many SEC teams lately. Dixon will probably be on campus at time or two unofficially before the season ends.


Two names to keep in mind are Jamauria Rasco a strongside defensive end/tackle from Louisiana. Tennessee is trying to get in the mix with Rasco and a big kid named Chavis Akins from Homestead, Florida. Both are being courted by SEC and ACC schools.

Thanks

'X'
'X' Says:Tennessee’s recruiting class today sitting at 15 commitments. Honestly, recruiting is off to a much better start than the stars/rankings would lead you to believe. Listen, A.J. Johnson and Brian Randolph are two of the top high prospects in the state of Georgia. Brian Randolph may be the best high school prospect in Georgia this year not named Ray Drew; Tom Smith is no longer a secret. He is on the radar of both Florida and Florida State; Anybody check out the senior season Justin Worley is putting together?; Pat Martin and Justin Coleman are excellent defensive back prospects who, along with Randolph, will get an opportunity early at Tennessee; and the three offensive lineman committed to date are all very good prospects.

Tennessee is set up to meet its recruiting needs at two of its most pressing positions by the time ink dries on scholarship papers in February. That being the offensive line and defensive back. Problem is you could make a case virtually every other position is one of need also. Tennessee finds itself having more needs than scholarships available to fill them.

That is the reason the last 12 or so slots in the 2011 recruiting class are crucial.

I will never be mistaken for a Fortune Teller or CARNAC The Great. I’m certainly not in the business of trying to predict where or why prospects wind up at the schools they do. As firm as we the fan think most every commitment is… signing those papers on the first Wednesday in February or showing up for spring semester at new school/new environment has a certain degree of finality to it. I don't fault the kids. It is their future not momma or daddy's or mine or those who choose to read this . . Let them do what they want and good luck to each and every one.


However (there is always a however isn’t there), it is a bit of a slow period in recruiting now and Coach Dooley’s decision to limit or do away with all together in-season official visits has caused recruiting activity to slow down a little more than expected. So, why don’t we try and predict who fills the Baker's dozen or so spots remaining in Tennessee's 2011 recruiting class?.



I need to digress for a second before I get started. While I have been away, I kept telling that Basilio guy that it would be an upset if AJ Johnson did anything but commit/sign with Tennessee. AJ Johnson has always liked Tennessee, has a wonderful relationship with Coach Thompson and Coach Smith, and honestly he has been Tennessee's to lose for awhile. Johnson is an excellent prospect who, if everything is square academically, will likely play early in 2011. Way to go Basilio! Keep staying loyal to ‘X’!

Right now with Johnson's commitment, Tennessee is sitting on 15 "public" commitments. For the purposes of this update, assume that either Eddrick Loften or Marques Dixon (but not both) become eligible and enroll at Tennessee in January. I think that is a fair expectation. That gets Tennessee to 16 spots taken. Right now, it is just too exhausting to try and figure out the number of scholarships that can be back-counted and spots still available in 2011 class. Why does anyone really care about that right now anyway? The most important thing and what you should be focused on is how the Tennessee staff decides to use these last dozen or so spots.


Tennessee to date is meeting its pressing needs at both the offensive line and defensive back positions. Given where Tennessee is at these positions , they can afford to wait on the top 1 or 2 prospects remaining on their board at both positions.

So with all this being said, here is my "prediction” on who these final spots fall out in February 2011.




Vincent Dallas, Athlete/Wide Receiver, Ellenwood, Georgia. If you have kept up with my postings, I have maintained that Vincent Dallas is an excellent prospect who has as impressive an offer list as any "3-star" player in Rivals system. All those probably aren’t committable offers . Tennessee's is. Dallas, who is being recruited as a wide receiver, is right at the top of Tennessee's wide receiver board. Could be just a matter of time before he goes public.

Antonio Richardson. Offensive Lineman, Ensworth High School, Nashville. Richardson is #2 on X's wish list behind Cameron Clear. Richardson is a prospect that if you are Tennessee you just got to have. Tennessee is in a battle with LSU and Alabama for Richardson. I don’t believe Richardson is a priority for either of these schools. He is for Tennessee. Jim Chaney and Harry Hiestand (Coach Dooley as well) have done a great job building a relationship with Richardson and his family. Richardson's recruitment is sure to take a few twists and turns between now and February. Stay tuned. Like Tennessee here.




Cameron Clear. Tight End. Offensive /Defensive Lineman. Memphis Central High School, Memphis, Tennessee. For all that has been leaked to the public, most feel Antonio Richardson is the #1 prospect on Tennessee's recruiting board. Privately.... let’s just say some will tell you Clear isn’t far behind Richardson if at all. I have maintained Cameron Clear is one of the prospects Tennessee is recruiting that has a legitimate opportunity over time to play on Sundays. He has that kind of potential. Clear is a defensive end/tackle wanting to play tight end. I say give him a shot at tight end if he wants. His path to playing right away is at another position though. Tennessee is in a good spot with Clear though he isn’t finished looking around.


Tennessee has three defensive back commitments for the 2011 recruiting class to date with the probability that Dixon and /or Loften will be here in January. However, because of current depth (or lack thereof) issues at defensive back and given that the defensive backs slated to return next season are not exactly dependable, look for Tennessee to take at least two more defensive backs in this class.

Derek King. Athlete /Cornerback, Brentwood, Tennessee. Being in fairly good shape at defensive back recruiting allows Tennessee to keep a number of prospects wanting to commit at arm’s length and wait on the two prospects at the top of their defensive back board. Their Number 1 target, who has been so for months, is Derek King. King possesses sprinters speed and athleticism needed to play cornerback in the SEC. Tennessee will have to wait awhile for King’s decision. Understand he plans to visit three or four other SEC schools before he makes his decision.

Kadetrix Marcus, Defensive Back/Linebacker , Stone Mountain, Georgia. This may be a surprise to some but not to those paying attention. Marcus went from a virtually unknown to a defensive back prospect that has steadily climbed up Tennessee's recruiting board. Marcus has been on campus numerous times. The last time on an unofficial visit he brought mom which is always a big deal. The other thing about Marcus is that he is a big kid and could grow into an outside linebacker if Tennessee comes up short at linebacker. I think if Marcus wants to come to Tennessee you take him.

One more thing …. I do believe Tennessee likes defensive back/athlete Tino Thomas for Memphis, Tennessee. Still if he doesn’t jump on board soon he may be left at the altar.

Jessie Hayes, Defensive Lineman, Cincinnati, Ohio. Since Jessie Hayes was mentioned here back in the spring, he has let’s say "blown up" in the eyes of college recruiters. Tennessee offered Hayes a scholarship early. Since then, Hayes has received scholarship offers from Oregon, Florida State, Wisconsin to name a few of high profile BCS schools that have gotten involved. Hayes and Tennessee have connections. Hayes is raw but has the talent to become a very good SEC defensive lineman. May take awhile though but Tennessee is in good shape here. Keep in mind that Tennessee is still recruiting defensive end prospects like Stephon Tuitt, Ray Drew, Georgio Newberry to name a few. However, I see nothing right now that suggest any of these higher profile prospects wind up at Tennessee.


Maurice Couch, Defensive Tackle. Garden City Community College, Kansas. Really hate to go the Junior College route but Tennessee needs a bunch of these big bodied guys who have sand in their britches. If you have been following me for any length of time, you understand my position of recruiting junior college prospects for any position. Tennessee has had minimal luck getting Junior College prospects in school and let’s face it schools like Kansas, Kansas State, and USC (all have offered Couch) have an easier path to admissions than Tennessee does. I haven’t studied it but seems like Tennessee has had zero luck getting Junior College defensive lineman in school. It is a must that Tennessee gets a couple big bodies who can academically qualify on campus as soon as possible. I wouldn’t take Couch or any other JUCO lineman if the possibility exists we will be waiting on their academics out until August of 2011. Couch is my first choice and really only choice of the JUCO defensive tackles. I just don’t see Sheldon Richardson being a legitimate target at this point.

Terry Bell Defensive Tackle, Lakeland, Florida. X-followers know that I really like Terry Bell. At 6’5” 270 pounds, Terry Bell is one of the defensive tackle prospects on the recruiting board with whom Tennessee has a legitimate shot. Bell has been on campus, holds offers from over 20 schools, and consistently mentions Tennessee as one of his top choices. I don’t know where he stands academically but most every SEC school has offered Bell a scholarship or is evaluating him. Bell is one of those prospects like Kadetrix Marcus who has steadily moved up Tennessee’s board. Have to be honest here … Don’t think right now Gabe Wright ends up a Volunteer.

Gionni Paul, Linebacker, Lakeland, Florida. From here it seems, Gionni Paul is Tennessee’s next best shot of landing a high profile play making linebacker in this class outside of AJ Johnson. There are connections between the Paul family and the Tennessee staff. Coach Dooley has made a favorable impression on Paul and his family. Doubt Paul will make a decision soon. Tennessee is in good shape here though I would keep an eye on a couple of the Florida schools with his recruitment.

Barron Dixon, Defensive End, Alpharetta, Georgia. Barron Dixon is a big kid (6’4” 250 pounds) who holds offers from SEC schools like Mississippi, Mississippi State, Arkansas, with a number of other SEC schools including Tennessee evaluating him. As I said earlier, Tennessee may fall short in pursuit of a couple of defensive end prospects on its board which may be rated higher than Dixon. Dixon though is a heck of a prospect. Tennessee is recruiting him as a defensive end and Dixon has been on campus multiple times and likes Tennessee a lot.

Andrew Buie, Wide Receiver/All Purpose Back, Trinity Christian High School, Jacksonville, Florida. As usual , 2011 sees Florida loaded with quality running backs. i . Andrew Buie looks to be one of the better ones. At Tennessee, Buie can play early because of his versatility as a running back, receiver or possible return man. Buie would be just what the doctor ordered for Tennessee. Versatile, explosive, good hands, and a threat to score every time he touches the football. Buie is that big play guy Tennessee covets. Consider these stats, last season Buie scored 24 touchdowns, 9.5 yards per rush, and 30 plus yards per pass reception.

Jerron Seymour, Wide Receiver/All Purpose Back, Hialeah High School, Hialeah, Florida. I really wish Tennessee could sign three or four prospects just like Seymour and Buie. I know a bunch of my followers have Devrin Young at the top of your list. Young is worthy of the offer he received and should make a nice player and contributor down the road. Yet, Seymour is a game changer that will make an impact early wherever he chooses to attend school. I favor Seymour over Young ... but would love to have both. I know it is only high school but what puts Seymour ahead of Young is Seymour has put up sick numbers against competition known to be some of the stiffest in the state of Florida. However, I’m not sure where Seymour stands academically and Tennessee is not in any position for an academic mis-step at this point. That may have tipped the scales toward Knoxville Bearden instead of South Florida. Is there room for both? Who knows?


Wild Card Spot. Signing the above prospects come next February would be nice. I doubt Tennessee signs all of the 12 mentioned above, but I think Tennessee may come close. Hope so. What this class needs and lacks is one more defensive end/outside linebacker/pass rusher X-trodinaire. As I mentioned, right now, I believe Tennessee comes up a little short with their top defensive end targets. Here are a couple of prospects of similar size and athleticism who could ultimately fit that bill as that pass rush specialist. Neither holds an offer right but both are being pursued by Tennessee.


Jervohntae Riles Bessmer, Alabama. Riley is a 6'5" 230 pound athlete. Riles, an Arkansas commitment, projects as a tight end that will cause matchup issues; a weak-side defensive end; or an outside linebacker in college. He could play anywhere. Some schools are recruiting him as an offensive player. Tennessee likes him as a defensive end but is recruiting him as an athlete. Riles is flying a bit under the radar because he suffered a broken wrist last season and was limited to only a handful of games. Another name to watch is Catrell Boyd from Gastonia, North Carolina. Boyd is similar in size to Riley (6'5" 230 pounds). Boyd is raw but has the measureables to turn into a big time defensive end. This is his first season of organized football. He is an accomplished high school basketball star though his ticket to college is as a football player. Most all the ACC schools, South Carolina, and Georgia are recruiting him. Boyd likes Tennessee, has been on campus , and is someone I would expect to return... soon.


X-Bits


Another in state prospect in the mix is Jalari Dunaway a linebacker from the Murfreesboro area. Physically, this kid looks ready to play in the SEC today. Dunaway has some things to take care in order to get himself ready to get to a committable offer from a SEC school. He is one though I am really pulling for. Others possible linebacker prospects to keep an eye on with Tennessee are Keith Lewis from the Tampa area and Georgia linebacker Edward Muldrow (South Carolina commitment).


Even though Tennessee has decided against hosting official visitors during home games , the turn out of unofficial visitors for the classes of 2011 and 2012 has been impressive.


The one position I continue to be concerned about is defensive line. Tennessee must sign more than two defensive tackles in this class. You just can't expect freshman to be physically ready to take the week in and week out pounding.

Glad to be back with you!




Until later, Go Vols


'X'
'X' Says:What is on the horizon over the next few weeks-

Pat Martin is the next up. Martin is the 14th rated defensive back/safety prospect in the nation. Martin , from Greenville, South Carolina, has had Tennessee out in front for is commitment for quite awhile now. However, his recruitment has played out all over the Internet. He has kept fans of Tennessee and South Carolina , schools that seem to be his top two choices, spun up for weeks. Martin is set to publicly announce his decision Sunday, or Monday, or whenever he feels like it. Yes, it has been that kind of recruitment. Still like Tennessee when he decides to announce. If you are looking for another positive to Martin becoming a VOL. If he is "in", he is all in meaning he is a commitment that will likely be recruiting like crazy for you.


Two other prospects I really like and I would keep an eye on the both with Tennessee are


1. Vincent Dallas. Dallas is an athlete/wide receiver from Ellenwood, Georgia. If you my remember my last post I marveled about how someone rated a three star prospect rated as such by the so-called Internet recruiting experts could have an any more impressive offer list than Vincent Dallas. Dallas is an early enrollee which is a positive and is being recruited by Tennessee as a wide receiver. Many believe Tennessee leads. Florida is involved tough. One thing to keep in mind now. With Teague and Meline moving to defensive back and wide receivers Gerald Jones and Denarius Moore graduating this fall, the wide receiver dynamic for Tennessee in its 2011 recruiting class has now changed. Hearing that Teague has a real future as a SEC defensive back but jury is still out on whether stays at defensive back or moves back to wide receiver. Regardless, Tennessee is now going to look at signing at least two wide receivers in this class. Dallas is one they would love to have. Though Dallas doubles as a safety in high school, his ticket to college is at the wideout position.


2. Gionni Paul. Paul a 6'0"210 lb linebacker prospect from Kathleen High School in Lakeland, Florida. Paul is right at the top of Tennessee' linebacker list and I have reason to believe Tennessee is close to the top of Paul's list. He is a SEC caliber linebacker prospect holding offers from LSU, Auburn, and Mississippi (as well as Tennessee). Florida and Georgia are interested but have not offered a scholarship ... yet. Paul has been on campus with his family. Expect him back this fall. Again, just another prospect to watch with Tennessee.


More to follow early next week...


'X'
'X' Says:Amazing how a few practices and position changes jumbles up the whole recruiting board. I will try and get you more later in the week on recruiting but consider:

We aren't one full week into practice and it looks like 3 defensive back signees aren't going to get in school (Dave Clark (we are sure Clark won't), Marques Dixon and Eddrick Loften (doubtful on both)); 2 receivers (Marsalous Teague and Ted Meline) are now playing defensive back; and ....2 defensive line starters (Marlon Walls and Ben Martin) are gone for the season. Who knows how well those two kids will come back from their injuries?

With respect to the defensive backs, Teague for sure, the kid who signed with Florida State but played baseball for a while (Brewer I think) are going to have to play this year. Meline is a true freshman and defensive back is new to him. He may have to play whether he is ready or not. Meline is a little raw but in time he is a player.

Sadly we are in worse shape at the defensive tackle position especially if John Brown doesn't get eligible...... somebodies are going to have to play in there whether its Sykes, Jeffrey, Bowen ,or another walk on....

Unless Chuck Smith is a miracle worker, I think we know Victor Thomas can't contribute much at defensive tackle .

UT is going to have to sign at least one if not 2 JUCO defensive tackles in their 2011 class and hope they can get both in school by January.

I don't think Dooley really wants to go that direction (see the sagas of John Brown and Dave Clark with the academics) but he may not have a choice.

More later in the week.

'X'
'X' Says:Stock Up/Stock Down - Late July 2010 Edition

Back after some rough sledding. Enough about me though. As the summer winds down and fall practice is looming, let’s take look at prospects that, over the last two to three months, Tennessee has helped themselves with (get it… Stock Up). Conversely, we'll also take a look at a handful of prospects Tennessee's position for whatever reason has slipped a little and in some cases maybe a lot (….Stock Down).

Regardless of whether a prospect falls under the “Stock Up” or the “Stock Down” side of the ledger, there is still 6 months until National Signing Day. Plenty of recruiting work yet to be done.

Can’t pass along everything but just remember ... spell the names right. Its "Basilio" and its “X”.

Have fun with it...


Stock Up.

Antonio Richardson, Ensworth High School, Nashville, Tennessee. Offensive Lineman. Richardson is the best prospect in the state of Tennessee for the 2011 class and it is not even close. Richardson is a nationally recognized recruit now and Tennessee people only expect his stock to skyrocket as his senior season at Ensworth unfolds. Though not in the business of predicting where prospects choose to sign, Tennessee on July 29th is in as good a position with Richardson as one could expect given all the uncertainty around the football program for the past few years. The key thing to watch, in addition to how the offensive line performs and progresses, is the stability of the offensive staff specifically Coaches Chaney and Hiestand. Both coaches, more so Coach Chaney, have forged excellent relationships with the Antonio Richardson and those close to him. Expect Richardson's recruitment to take a few twists and turns and don't look for a decision from him until late in the recruiting process.

Mack Crowder, Bristol High School, Bristol, Tennessee. Offensive Lineman (Center). Yes, one of the worst kept secrets in East Tennessee is Tennessee is leading the pack for a commitment from Mack Crowder. Appears I'm being the master of the obvious but follow me. Can anyone think of another prospect Tennessee has made up as much ground with in the past 2 to 3 months than Mack Crowder? Crowder has emerged from a group of 5 to 6 offensive line/center prospects to be the Number 1 prospect on Tennessee's board at the Center position ... a real position of need in this recruiting class. Remember Issac Luatua the center prospect from California? Luatua was at the top of Tennessee’s interior lineman board early on until the staff made a visual made and realized Luatua is not much taller than Basilio. After that, attention appeared to turn toward Ryan Kelley from West Chester, Ohio, or so we thought. My understanding is after Tennessee received and evaluated Crowder’s tape and worked him out, he emerged above all others as the #1 center prospect. It has been that way for a while.

I'm not certain any of the other schools recruiting Mack Crowder feel they are in as good a shape with him as Tennessee believes it is. Florida has pushed to get Crowder on campus but Florida is not a real threat. Virginia Tech may have been a concern at one time but not so much now.


Stephon Tuitt, Monroe High School, Monroe, Georgia. Defensive Lineman. Georgia Tech is still the team to beat for this prize of a defensive lineman who is the second best high school defensive lineman in Georgia. However, people closer to this situation than I expected Stephon Tuitt to have publicly committed to the Yellow Jackets by the end of the summer. That hasn’t happened and Tuitt continues to visits schools. He has been to the Tennessee campus at least twice over the summer. Georgia Tech will be tough to overcome; however, Tennessee has immediate playing time to offer for defensive lineman next season and Tuitt is one that you expect to play early wherever he goes to school. Consider too that elite defensive line prospects, like Tuitt, will sit back and watch how the defensive line responds to Chuck Smith during the season... could be a key factor with Tuitt and others as well.

Lateek Townsend, Marlboro County High School, Bennettsville, Georgia. Linebacker. Lateek Townsend shows up here for two reasons. One, linebacker is a continuing priority in this recruiting class. Tennessee needs linebackers (hopefully at least two) that have big play ability and Townsend certainly fits that bill. Second, two to three months ago Tennessee was not even showing up Townsend's recruiting radar. A couple of linebacker targets on Tennessee's radar look to be heading to other destinations. The staff 's persistence with Townsend along with the help of other prospects Tennessee is recruiting got Townsend to campus. Now, Tennessee appears to be in line for return visits this fall by Townsend… Townsend won’t make a decision anytime soon even if and he does expect his recruitment to be another one that takes a number of twists and turns before National Signing Day. Certainly expect Townsend to be back on campus this fall to check out the game day atmosphere.

Terry Bell, Teneroc High School, Lakeland, Florida. Defensive Tackle. You first read about Terry Bell in this market hear first (check the tape - June 4). Bell is simply a stud. He plays both ways ( offensive and defensive tackle) in high school. Tennessee likes Bell and is recruiting him as a defensive tackle. As I told you back in May, Bell has a Tennessee scholarship offer (though an offer from Tennessee doesn’t show up in Bell’s Rivals profile) . Bell holds scholarship offers from over 25 schools including all the major Florida schools. Bell would be tough to pull from Florida (Florida State seems to be in the lead). Depth chart issues may help Tennessee and other schools outside Florida here. We all know how well Florida has recruited across the defensive front in the past two years. Too, Florida State signed 4 defensive tackles in its 2010 recruiting class and already has 2 defensive tackle commitments for its 2011 class.

Bell consistently mentions Tennessee as one of his top schools. Tennessee is right there and the opportunity for early playing time works to Tennessee’s favor here.

Zac West. Lexington Christian High School, Lexington, Kentucky. Offensive Lineman (Guard). Zac West was first introduced as a Tennessee recruiting target this market right here on May 27. West projects as a guard and is rated as one of the top overall prospects in Kentucky for 2011. West has steadily climbed up Tennessee' s recruiting board. He has been to the Tennessee campus and now holds an offer from Tennessee. West fits a need for Tennessee at one of the interior line positions. West does not appear to be at the top of the list of interior line targets on Tennessee board but he is close. Expect West back during the fall.

Brandon Fulse, Fort Meade High School, Fort Meade, Florida. Tight End. Beating a dead horse but Basilio first introduced we introduced you to Brandon Fulse on April 4. Fulse is a specimen and one of the most physically imposing prospects on Tennessee's board. Fulse is being recruited as a tight end though he projects as possibly a defensive end or defensive tackle in college. He is a four star prospect that has consistently mentioned Tennessee among his favored schools. In interviews, he states Tennessee is recruiting him as a tight end. The kid is one of the most athletic kids on the board. Expect Fulse to be on campus this fall and expect Tennessee to be quite involved in this recruitment. Fulse holds over 25 offers but Tennessee has put themselves in a good position here.


Stock Down... Gonna get ripped for some of these but here goes.

Jeff Pagan, Asheville High School, Asheville, North Carolina. Defensive End. Maybe you can give this staff a pass on getting a late start recruiting one of the best defensive line prospects in the Southeast who happens to live 2 hours west of campus. I have a hard time though. Geez, Pagan has always liked Tennessee, lives within in an earshot, and by the way, he can play. Pagan committed to Florida this spring. Tennessee seemed to make up ground during spring evaluations and Pagan was on campus a couple of weeks ago. Too much point to Florida or possibly Clemson as an upset. Just not feeling Tennessee is good shape here.


Pat Martin, JL Mann High School, Greenville, South Carolina. Cornerback. Hear me out on this one.....Most think Pat Martin could be one of Tennessee's next commitments. Martin can play. He is a highly rated cornerback at a position of need in this recruiting class. However, in each recruiting class, there are always a couple of kids that play to the masses. I’m thinking Martin is that guy. Martin likes the attention and there is nothing wrong with it. Let the kid have his time. If Martin does commit to Tennessee soon, is it really over or will the recruitment play out in social media forums until National Signing Day? I’m not buying this one right now. I was a few weeks ago. Regardless, Pat Martin is a fantastic prospect. Tennessee needs an upgrade in its defensive backs and he is a prospect you definitely take. His recruitment will be both interesting and fun to follow.

Cameron Clear, Memphis Central High School, Memphis Tennessee. Tight End/Athlete. Tennessee is certainly in the thick of Clear's commitment. Clear, one of the top prospects in Tennessee, is a priority for the Tennessee staff not a doubt about it. Clear is being recruited as a tight end though he may play on Sunday's as a lineman on either side of the line of scrimmage. Honestly, many thought Clear’s name would have already shown in up Tennessee's commitment list by now and it hasn't. Clear's stock has risen and is now he is getting recruiting attention from the likes of Florida, Florida State, and Auburn among others. He also seems to be enjoying the recruiting process. Nothing indicates Tennessee has fallen out of the chase for Clear but schools like Florida and SEC West Division rivals Arkansas, Ole Miss, and Auburn are reasons to worry.

Rory Anderson, McEachern High School, Powder Springs, Georgia. Tight End/Athlete. Good grief! Rory Anderson’s star has fallen faster than Lindsay Lohan’s hasn’t it? Has any prospect whose commitment to Tennessee was thought to be a certainty in the spring seen his stock fall faster than Rory Anderson? Tennessee takes a commitment out of left field from Andrew Power a JUCO tight end. Then, Tennessee makes Bristol High tight end prospect Brendan Downs, former Duke and now Tennessee commitment, a priority. Also, remember Tennessee is right in the thick of recruiting battles for Brandon Fulse and Cameron Clear both being recruited as tight ends (though both may end up at different positions in college). None of this bodes well for Anderson. Now fast forwarding to July 30th in my opinion, there would have to be two or three "recruiting misses" before Anderson becomes a legitimate target again.


Torrey Campbell, Barron Collier High School, Naples, Florida. Cornerback. A week to ten days ago Torrey Campbell may have shown up in the “Stock Up” List. Campbell is a true cornerback with skills. Keep in mind one of the worst kept secrets around the complex is the collective displeasure with the current group of defensive backs on the roster. Whether it is that some lack athleticism and/or others just simply can’t be completed counted on, expect Tennessee to sign 4 to 6 defensive back/athlete types in the upcoming class. Tennessee has two prospects committed that project as defensive back commits now and is in great recruiting shape with a handful of other defensive backs (i.e., Pat Martin, Avery Walls, Chris Jones, Tino Thomas, to name a couple). Numbers are already starting to get tight for defensive backs.

Campbell is an impressive athlete. He was nowhere to be found with Tennessee until spring evaluations. Kudos to Coach Hinshaw and Coach Joseph getting Tennessee involved to where Tennessee is in Campbell's top two schools. Again, the good news is Tennessee is well positioned with a number of very good defensive back prospects and already has two committed. One wonders how hard Tennessee is or will push for a commitment from Campbell now.

Kent Turene, Boyd Anderson High School, Lauderdale Lakes, Florida. Linebacker. Maybe you were not surprised that Kent Turene verbally committed to USC a few weeks ago. It did take a few people within the Complex by surprise. Turene is a big time prospect holding over 20 offers (including one from Tennessee) with ties to the Tennessee program. People won’t say this but I believe Tennessee felt like it had as good a shot to land Turene as any school. That is the bad news he is committed to USC. The good news is Tennessee will not and has not quit recruiting Turene . I am going to pay attention to what goes with USC this season especially with that head coach and his staff. The Turene quick commitment was a bit odd, even suspicious, and is far from solid in my opinion. The last chapter in this recruitment has yet to be written.

Chris Milton, Charlton County High School, Folkston, Georgia. Athlete. Chris Milton is another prospect I view similarly to Torrey Campbell. Milton and Tennessee kind of popped up as an item at the beginning of the summer. Tennessee looked to be in good shape here and his leader for a period of time but things have changed. Even though Milton recently visited Tennessee, it looks like, for the same reasons as mentioned with Torrey Campbell, Chris Milton is a part of a “fall back” plan now.

D'Anthony Arnett, Saginaw High School, Saginaw, Michigan. Wide Receiver. Arnett is flat out one of the top wide receiver prospects in the country. Arnett along with his family just finished up a visit to the Tennessee campus. All reports indicate Arnett had a good trip. However, I just don’t see Tennessee being in the hunt when it comes to decision time for Arnett. My position is this is a prospect that can play immediately at most any college in the country. At Tennessee, the wide receiver depth chart may play a factor in his decision. Tennessee is well stocked (quantity and potential quality) at the wide receiver position. Arnett likes a couple of other schools where playing time may be more enticing. Hope something happens that changes my mind here. Arnett might be the best prospect on our board. Other wide receiver prospects like Darryl Collins, Vincent Dallas, or Chris Gallon may be more legitimate targets as of now.


Notes:

Tennessee got a nice one with the commitment of Justin Coleman from Brunswick, Georgia.

Has anyone checked out the offer list for Tennessee wide receiver/athlete target Vincent Dallas? Geesh, Dallas is a highly thought of prospect with just as impressive an offer list as any 4 or 5 star prospect…. and Dallas just has 3 stars by his name. Explain that one star grazers?

Don’t read too much into the written accounts of interviews granted by Gainesville, Georgia, linebacker prospect and Tennessee target AJ Johnson liking others schools more than Tennessee. As long as Lance Thompson remains on Tennessee’s staff, Tennessee will be in good shape with Johnson.

After initially being a bit concerned about defensive tackle recruiting, X is eating his words. Tennessee is hard after a number of well thought of defensive tackle prospects and I’m impressed. Add Deon Green from Orlando, Florida, to the list. Green who is a South Carolina commitment is being courted hard by Tennessee. You have to like these reports of Tennessee aggressively recruiting these prospects like Deon Green, Darryl Collins, Danny Woodson and a handful of others committed to other schools. Back to Green, look for him to be on campus this fall. Just another prospect to add to the list as one to watch.

Still like Tennessee and defensive back prospect Avery Walls though he has been quiet for awhile now.

Alan Posey, barring injury, will be a very good SEC offensive lineman.

Though Marietta, Georgia offensive lineman Thomas O'Reilly is committed to Auburn, but expect O'Reilly will be back to the Tennessee campus this fall (he was here over the summer) . Recruitment worth paying attention to.

In closing, if you have a friend you haven’t checked in on for awhile… Do it today. You never know when you’ll make that persons day and may save a life.

Peace

X
'X' Says:'I'm hearing different things on John Brown.


My guess is, as with most every JUCO kid we really need going into a season, Brown's eligibility will likely be something everyone will be talking about all the way until August.


Lets be clear. It is a big deal. He is a SEC caliber defensive tackle. And besides him we have two, young SEC defensive tackles and both are not proven commodities while each has had their share of nagging injuries.


As for the camps: The turnout both in terms of the number of campers attending AND the number of fairly high profile prospects showing up whether to participate or just to observe has been impressive .


Two names I believe will be on campus this week or this upcoming weekend are Georgia defensive backs Ra'Chard Pippens and Kadetrix Marcus.


Pippens, 6'0" 175 safety/athlete is a prospect that is getting a lot of interest from both ACC and SEC schools. Auburn has offered Pippens a scholarship. He doesn't have an offer from Tennessee yet. I believe in terms of priorities he is a bit down Tennessee's list. Brian Randolph and Avery Walls , both holding Tennessee offers, are higher on their board than Pippens right now.


Marcus on the other hand is a very good player who seems to be moving up the board quickly. Marcus too is a safety. He attends Stephenson High School in Stone Mountain, Georgia a school where Tennessee has very good connections. Tennessee is also recruiting at least two of Marcus's teammates: offensive lineman Tariq Cook and to a lesser extent running back Willie Davis (current South Florida commitment).


Also, expect Georgia defensive lineman Barron Dixon to be on campus for an unofficial visit. Last I heard he may just visit and not participate in camps. I will try to get a better idea on when he will be on campus.


Again, just another trio of really good 2011 Georgia football prospects Tennessee is involved with


As someone who pays attention to Tennessee's football recruiting, you have to be encouraged about the following: Tennessee is getting a number of high profile prospects to campus over the summer. 6 weeks ago I never thought I would be saying that. Tennessee wasn't even mentioned with many of these prospects prior to spring evaluations. Tennessee has offered 8 (eight), 2011 in state prospects. You can expect more in state prospects to be offered; and, though I'm not certain how 2011 recruiting will fare, if they keep the staff together, I expect very good things recruiting wise in 2012!

More when I get it.

'X'
'X' Says:This is my short and sweet pre-summer camp update. Here are a few prospects that have made their way onto and are moving up the Tennessee recruiting board. These prospects were nowhere to be found until the new staff stepped in and got their feet under them.

To the best of my knowledge, the prospects list below does not hold Tennessee scholarship offers. You should remember these names as each bears watching as recruiting ratchets up through the summer and into the fall.

Devonte Brown, Defensive Tackle, Jack Britt High School, Fayetteville , North Carolina. Devonte Brown may be a new name but his high school should be a familiar one. Brown is a high school teammate of former Tennessee and now Clemson commitment Eric MacLain. Just after National Signing Day in February, Tennessee was casually mentioned with Devonte Brown. Almost as fast as Brown emerged as a target with Tennessee, the talk went away. Brown is now a bonafide Tennessee defensive tackle target. Whether or not Brown camps at Tennessee is unknown. Tennessee is hovering around his top three to five schools at present. Expect him to visit Tennessee this fall before he finalizes his college decision.

Ruben Gonzales, Wide Receiver, Robinson High School, Tampa, Florida. Funny thing happened while the Tennessee staff was evaluating Tampa defensive end prospect Anthony Chickillo and linebacker Keith Lewis (both Tennessee targets). An athletic wide receiver kept showing up on tape/film making plays. That wide receiver was Ruben Gonzales. Gonzales , who does not have an offer, certainly fits Tennessee’s wide receiver profile. It is apparent Tennessee plans to sign more than one big, wide receiver/athlete type of prospect in the 2011 class just look at their offer list to wide receivers if you don't believe.

Ronnie Martin, 5’11” 175 pounds. Athlete/Defensive Back Spartanburg High School, South Carolina. Martin is the type of prospect spring evaluations are all about. A virtual unknown a few weeks ago. Martin is now receiving interest from most all the SEC schools.


Terry Bell, 6'5" 270 lbs from Lakeland, Florida. Bell is a prospect that plays both offensive and defensive tackle in high school and is being recruited by college to play either position. Bell may have recently received a Tennessee scholarship offer from Tennessee though I can’t confirm. Bell has between 15 and 20 offers including offers from all the major Florida schools. Bell would be tough to pull from Florida but Tennessee has need and opportunity for early playing time.


Desman Floyd, 6'4" 235 lbs from Union County High School, South Carolina. Floyd is a tight end/defensive line prospect who has publicly stated of his interest in Tennessee. Floyd is an accomplished athlete who Tennessee will take a long look at this fall. As a side note, it is good to see Tennessee making some progress in the recruiting areas of North and South Carolina


My attempt to focus this effort on prospects, other than those in the state of Georgia, has once again miserably failed. As said several times, (it bears repeating though) 2011 is a very good year for football talent in Georgia. Not only high-profile prospects every school in the country is recruiting , but there are many good, solid prospects in Georgia you can win football games with at a high level. Is it any wonder Tennessee has made the state of Georgia a recruiting priority? Say what you want about any perceived short comings of the Tennessee staff. With Lance Thompson, Coach Dooley, and Chuck Smith on staff, you have sufficient connections established in Georgia to make a pretty strong recruiting statement.


Here are just a few more Georgia prospects to add to the list.

Joshua King, 5’10” 180 lbs, Mt. Zion High School, Jonesboro, Georgia. King is another prospect who has started being noticed by SEC schools. Georgia just seems to be chocked full of cornerback/athletes who have big time skills and speed.


Kadetrix Marcus, 6'0"185 lbs, Stone Mountain High School. Marcus is a big time talent who recently transferred to Stone Mountain High School for his senior year. Tennessee has good recruiting connections at Stone Mountain High. Though Marcus does not have a scholarship offer, Tennessee is one of his top 3 or 4 schools. Marcus is a prospect who will be heavily recruited this fall leading up to National Signing Day.


Jarquez Samuel, 6'5" 250 lbs from Valdosta. Samuel has a handful of offers including one from LSU. Samuel would likely slide to defensive tackle in college. Samuel will get plenty of looks this fall and his high school team is loaded with 2011/2012 players that will play in the ACC or SEC. Tennessee staff is well aware of Samuels



‘X’s & O’s:

A little recruiting story that may interest only me. I found this story literally buried in the college sports section of the Atlanta Journal Constitution (AJC) yesterday. The AJC is one of those big market newspapers that do a reasonably good job of covering college football recruiting. Bit of a Georgia Bulldog bias and now that they've gotten beyond their Kiffin envy, their recruiting coverage is pretty good.

Anyway, here is the story. Georgia's 2010 football recruiting class continues to get plundered and just took another hit this week. It appears one of the cornerstones to that signing class, Jalen Fields, is not going to qualify academically to attend Georgia this fall. The writer attributed his information to Coach Mark Richt so I conclude the information is accurate.



If I’m a Georgia fan and I'm not, losing Fields hurts... no way to spin this positively. Fields was one of the top high school players in Georgia last season. He committed early in the process and would have surely played as a true freshman.


Even though Fields was committed to Georgia, the former Tennessee staff NEVER quit recruiting Fields.

I'm not saying Jalen Fields would have ended up de-committing from Georgia and committing to Tennessee if the former staff would have remained at Tennessee. I am saying as the recruiting process went on last fall and winter, the former Tennessee Recruiting Coordinator and Defensive Line Coach had his attention……. regardless of what was being portrayed in the media.


This hurts Georgia in a number of ways. This time last year Georgia's recruiting class was heading toward being one of the top classes in the country. However, after a sub-par season on the field, watching long time commitments like Nikell Robey, Deon Butler, Telvin Smith and Da-Rick Rogers sign with other schools, missing out on prospects like Juwuan James and Christian Green, and now seeing Jalen Fields headed off to get his grades in order well, for Georgia fans, its a bummer.

What this means now, regardless of what is reported in the media, Jalen Fields' recruitment is now open again. Chances are he still ends up at Georgia but that won’t stop other schools from recruiting him including one up I-75. Bank on It.

In State “X” travaganza.

Brief thoughts on a handful of in state prospects.


Keenan Crenshaw, 6'2" 295 pounds Ensworth High School. College recruiters will flock to Ensworth this fall to watch Antonio Richardson. Crenshaw will get plenty of looks


Keilyn Wells, 6"5" 230 lbs, Whitehaven High School. Another big athletic prospect on Tennessee's radar. Projects as tight end in college. Likes Tennessee but doesn't have an offer.

Julian Lewis, 6'0" 205 lbs, Whitehaven High School. Another in state linebacker just now beginning to see interest from the larger schools.


Brandon Miller, 6'4" 270 lbs Tullahoma High School. Miller needs to carry improvement from the spring to the summer and onto the playing field this fall. Interest though is beginning to pick up.

‘X’
'X' Says:‘This is a great time of the year . If you follow college football, and I assume you do if you are reading this , it is both a time of transition and anticipation.

There is a convergence of activities occurring that certainly will have an impact on college football recruiting and the 2010 football fortunes of many a college teams including the one in Knoxville.

On the recruiting front, coaching staffs across the country are finishing their last week on the road as the spring evaluation period winds down. 2010 signees are graduating from high school and are trying to square paperwork up with admissions offices and the NCAA clearinghouse. A week to 10 days from now the first wave of high school football stars begin moving into college dorms to begin a new phase of their lives…… a summer in a college football strength and conditioning program.

Optimism abounds doesn’t it? Sure, as a fan base most feel certain each and every prospect signed in 2010 is going to qualify for school and get through the Clearinghouse unscathed. Some have work to do but surely all can and will make it. We hear this every year.

If you follow recruiting closely, you are beginning to hear the Tennessee name connected to a growing number of prospects. Recruiting isn’t near as bleak as it seemed a few weeks ago but you would like to see this translate in a few more commitments.

During this final week of spring evaluations every school including Tennessee will try and close this phase of recruiting out with a bang. Tennessee for instance has staff dispatched to all points evaluating prospects, talking with high school coaches, gathering more and more video on more and more prospects. Staffs that aren’t out recruiting are in the office putting the final touches on summer camps which start in two weeks and are also trying to get a feel of exactly who is coming to camp(s). Can you really believe we are two weeks away from summer camps? Unbelievable.

Back to the prospects. Where were all these prospects 6 weeks ago? Gee whiz. Over the last few weeks, just how many new prospects have publicly commented on their interest in Tennessee or vice versa? If you are one that keeps a running tab on the number of scholarship offers extended (and I do), you have been busy lately just trying to keep the list current.

It is great to see Tennessee making progress though. I try to be fair here but by most all accounts Tennessee’s 2011 recruiting experience got off to a less than smooth start. Hopefully, the positive news is an indication things have gotten straightened out organizationally and starts leading to a few more public commitments.

Like most others I enjoy reading articles on prospects published by from the likes of Scout, Rivals, and ESPN. Even a few of the major market newspapers do a good job with their recruiting coverage.

Many prospects have indicated in interviews of their intention to either attend camp at Tennessee or drive over with their families for an unofficial visit. Getting prospects to campus during the summer is huge for Tennessee even more so this summer than in previous summers.

Getting prospects to campus gets you in the mix for an official visit and gives Coach Dooley and the prospect(s) time in a relaxed and informal setting. Remember Coach Dooley has not had the opportunity to go out on the road during spring evaluations. Therefore, getting these prospects and parents and coaches to campus gives everyone a chance to know one another better.

My advice for the following few weeks is not to pay attention to what these prospects said they were going to do. Rather, pay attention to what they do.

Prospects can’t visit and camp at every school recruiting them. Logistical and financial realities have to be considered in their decision making process. At that point, the legitimacy of their decision making process begins to occur.

So, with that said, here are a few of prospects to watch. Pay attention to what they do (i.e., attend a Tennessee camp /take an unofficial visit to Tennessee campus with a parent or coach). All is not lost if a prospect who says he is camping here or visiting doesn’t. It is just a sign there is more recruiting work to do.

You’ll notice as you review the names of prospects some are considered long shots, some prospects though Tennessee has a real chance of landing, and there are also a few prospects listed just beginning to show up on Tennessee's radar.

I have focused primarily on the key positions of need in 2011….those being offensive and defensive line, tight end, linebacker and defensive back.

Offensive Line

Isaac Lusatia (6'2" 300 lbs from La Mirada, Ca). Some believe Lusatia is the top center prospect on Tennessee’s board right now. Regarded as one of if not the top center prospect in the country, Lusatia has publicly stated Tennessee is a school at the top of his list as well. Really? If Lusatia makes a trip to Tennessee this summer, which he says he plans to do, come back and talk to me. Tennessee is not a serious contender for Lusatia’s commitment until he shows up on campus this summer. For now, I’m just not buying. By the way, Lusatia was recently extended a scholarship offer by UCLA..... Ouch.

Ryan Kelley (6'4" 275 lbs from West Chester, Ohio). Bazillion was out in front in this market letting everyone know of the mutual interest between Tennessee and Ryan Kelley even before the Orange and White game. Kelley, who has already been on campus once, holds a Tennessee offer and offers from 20 plus schools. For all the grief the Tennessee staff received for being too slow to pull the trigger on offering scholarships to certain prospects, Tennessee beat both Alabama and Florida to the draw in offering Ryan Kelly a scholarship. I don’t see Ryan Kelly making a decision anytime soon. If he makes it to campus over the summer, Tennessee has a legitimate shot here. Kelley, in my opinion, makes more sense than Lusatia

Cyrus Hobbi (6'4" 285 lbs from Scottsdale, Arizona). If nothing else, Hobbi has been consistent. He has stated in interviews multiple times mind you that Tennessee is a school he has tremendous interest in. Indications are he plans to visit Tennessee during the summer. Hobbi is certainly a talented offensive line prospect. It is a long, long way from Arizona to Knoxville. Until he visits, don’t get too excited.

Zac West, (6"5" 300 lbs Lexington, Kentucky) . West projects as a guard and is rated as the sixth best prospect in Kentucky for 2011. West has received the most recruiting attention to date from Midwestern schools and is just not starting to pick up SEC interest. Tennessee is recruiting West though he doesn’t have an offer. Expect West to visit campus during the summer and possibly camp here as well. West fits a need at guard.

Antonio Richardson (Ellsworth High School) and Kyler Kerbyson (Knoxville Catholic). Depending on whom you listen two, these two kids in any order are the top prospects in the state of Tennessee for 2011. Both are at the top of Tennessee’s offensive line board as well. Tennessee is in a good spot with each. If you are a Tennessee fan, you would like to see both kids on campus at least one more time during the summer.

With Allan Posey committed and other offensive lineman “on the board” Tennessee looks to be in good shape with offensive line recruiting is a 2011 bright spot.

Defensive Line

With very little pomp and circumstance, Tennessee is putting together a nice portfolio of defensive line targets who appear to have legitimate interest. Here is just a sampling.

Jeff Pagan (6'4" 250 lbs from Asheville, North Carolina). Pagan committed to Florida this spring. Tennessee got a late start recruiting Jeff Pagan for whatever reason. Pagan, one of the top defensive line prospects in the southeast, is still being recruited by Tennessee along with, Clemson, North Carolina and many others. Don’t expect Tennessee to let up or give up on its pursuit of Pagan. Let’s see if he makes a trip across the mountain this summer to check out Tennessee. Lots of rumors out there about Pagan’s recruitment and his interest in Tennessee. Right now, this seems to be just rumor. I have maintained since he committed to Florida this is a recruiting story that is far from complete.

Jessie Hayes (6'4" 250 lbs from Cincinnati, Ohio). Tennessee is in as good a shape as one can expect at this point with Jessie Hayes. Tennessee targeted Hayes early and is right now is near the top of his list along with Wisconsin. Tennessee beat a number of teams to the punch in identifying and offering Jessie Hayes a scholarship. He is no longer a secret though as he just received offers from the likes of Oregon and Florida State. Hayes is as impressive as any of the defensive end prospects Tennessee is pursuing. Expect him to visit campus over the summer.

Stephon Tuitt (6'5" 260 lbs from Monroe, Georgia). Tuitt maybe the best defensive line prospect in the state of Georgia not named Ray Drew. Says something about Stephon Tuitt's potential given the level of high school talent in the state of Georgia this year. For the longest time, many, including me, felt Tuitt would end up at Georgia Tech or at Georgia and he still may. However, Tuitt has consistently mentioned Tennessee in his top five schools and has indicated he will visit the campus. Stay tuned. Tuitt isn’t necessarily in that long shot category but there is still work to be done.

Colt Lyeria (6'5" 225 lbs from Hillsboro, Oregon). Tennessee staff has been working very hard to get front and center with Lyeria. There are connections there between Tennessee staff and the Lyeria camp. However, much like Issac Luatua, Lyeria would have to fly over a number of schools where he can play football before he lands in Knoxville. Indications are Lyeria may visit campus this summer. Let’s see if he does before he is moved up the list as a legitimate target.

Ray Drew (6'5" 250 lbs from Thomasville, Georgia) . If the #2 defensive end prospect in the state of Georgia is mentioned herein, we are compelled to mention the #1 prospect, right? Georgia and Florida State are front runners now for Ray Drew. Drew has been to campus once. Let’s see if he gets back over the summer. Drew has the potential to be a game changer. He is a big-time talent. Tennessee has got his attention.

Ricardo Williams (6’5” 220 lbs, Homestead, Florida). Williams is an athletic weak side end/outside linebacker who has recently received an offer from Tennessee. Williams may be tough to pull from the Florida schools; however, Williams has continued to speak of his interest in Tennessee regularly.

Gabriel Wright (6'3" 270 lbs from Columbus, Georgia). Well chronicled that seemingly out of nowhere Gabriel Wright shows up on campus a few weeks ago. Once Gabriel Wright popped up as a target, other defensive tackle prospects on Tennessee’s list moved further down the list. Whether to participate in summer camp or just a visit, you would like to see Gabriel Wright back on campus this summer.

DeMarcus Hodge (6'1" 280 lbs from Monroe, Louisiana) . Hodge is not as highly rated a defensive tackle prospect as others. However, he does have a Tennessee scholarship offer. Built in the same mold as a Marlon Wall type defensive tackle, Tennessee looks to be battling Arkansas for Hodge. Tennessee likes Hodge a lot. Hopeful that he makes it to campus over the summer

Here are a few other defensive linemen that bear watching over the summer. Georgia defensive lineman Darrius Caldwell, Barron Dixon, Chris Mayes, Grady Jarrett and Deron Wright; Louisiana defensive linemen Gerard Johnson and Mickey Johnson; Mississippi defensive lineman PJ Jones; and, Jacksonville defensive tackle Chris Jones.


Tight Ends

The way Tennessee seems to be recruiting tight ends these days you begin to wonder just how many will be signed in this recruiting class. While Jay Rome (6'6" 240 lbs from Valdosta, Georgia). is the #1 tight end prospect on their board (as he is on every major college football program in the South), Tennessee has plenty of other targets on its tight end board. One note on Jay Rome. Unlike many others, I’m not ready to close the door on Tennessee and Jay Rome quite yet for any number of reasons.

Eric McClain, (6'4" 245 lbs from Fayetteville, North Carolina). Here is another tight end prospect that shouldn’t be completely written off either. A prospect that was a Tennessee commitment for the longest time. New staff may have miss-stepped a bit early on with the McClain camp and then a somewhat public divorce from Tennessee followed.

Given the craziness around McLain's whirlwind recruitment after de-committing from Tennessee, would anyone be surprised if he visited Tennessee or other schools over the summer? Clemson was money early on landing 6 or 7 early verbal commitments for its 2011 recruiting class. One by one a number of Clemson’s “committed” prospects are beginning to explore other options. McClain could well end up signing with Clemson…. or Duke….or Tennessee for that matter. Point being here. Don’t be surprised if McClain looks around a bit between now and signing day. Tennessee makes a lot of sense.

Here are three other tight end prospects being evaluated Collin Jarbo (6'4" 225 lbs Gadsen, Alabama); Kennard Backmon (6'3" 225 lbs from Mableton, Georgia); and, John Banks, (6'4" 235 lbs from Baton Rouge. LA). Watch over the summer to see if any of these prospects attend camp or visit the campus.


Linebackers

Again, along with the defensive lineman, Tennessee is positioning itself well with a fairly solid group of linebackers.

Kent Turene, (6'3" 230 lbs from Lauderdale Lakes, Florida) . 6'3"230 pounds? He looks every bit of it on video. Kent Turene is the top linebacker on my board for those that care. Turene is another prospect Tennessee offered a scholarship to early on beat the likes of Alabama to the draw. Turene will be a prospect recruited by schools all over the country. He likes Tennessee and has connections to the Program. There is optimism that he will indeed visit campus over the summer. Turene will be a tough pull from Miami but he is a prospect from Florida that Tennessee has made fairly good progress with.

Gionni Paul (6'0" 210 lbs from Lakeland Florida). Paul is another impact type linebacker that has appears to have legitimate interest in Tennessee. Paul has the ability to play any of the three linebacker position and possesses athleticism to rush the quarterback from the edge… At one point, many expected Paul to end his recruitment over the summer. Now, it appears he isn’t in a hurry to make a decision. I wouldn’t go as far as saying Tennessee leads for Paul but I will say Tennessee is in a good spot with him.

Stephone Anthony (6'5" 225 lbs from Wadesboro, North Carolina) ., Anthony is the #1 prospect in the state of North Carolina for 2011. During this evaluation period, Anthony has received heavy interest from Tennessee. I believe Tennessee is just on the outside looking in with Stephone Anthony for now…..that being said it wouldn’t surprise me if he visited campus over the summer.

CJ Johnson, (6'2" 225 lbs from Philadelphia, Mississippi). Johnson is a Mississippi State commitment. That didn’t stop him from visiting Tennessee this spring. Publicly, he remains committed to Mississippi State though schools like Tennessee and LSU seem to be schools he really likes. Keep this kid in mind. He'll be on campus this summer or in the fall.

Here are a couple of other linebackers to keep an eye on. Georgia linebacker Justin Garrett; and South Carolina linebacker BJ Goodson.

Defensive Backs

Jabriel Washington (5"10" 165 lbs from Jackson, Tennessee) . The only Tennessee prospect included in this part of the report. Washington is one of those prospects Tennessee did not get out of the gate with quickly. Washington is committed to Alabama. Tennessee’s staff has continued to recruit him. Tennessee has prospects on their board that are better prospects than Washington in my opinion. We’ll see if Washington shows up on campus anytime over the summer.

Avery Walls (5" 11" 185 lbs from Union Grove, Georgia). Walls has over 30 scholarship offers and was on campus during the spring. Another prospect Tennessee feels good about. You would like to see Walls back on campus over the summer break. Though Georgia has not offered Walls a scholarship, Tennessee should be worried about Georgia more so than any other school Walls is considering even though Walls doesn’t have an offer from Georgia at this point.

Pat Martin (6"0" 190 lbs from Greenville, South Carolina). Tennessee likes Pat Martin a lot and the feeling appears to be reciprocal. Martin has mentioned Tennessee prominently as a school where he will attend camp or visit unofficially over the summer. Many feel Tennessee is in a good place with Martin. Let’s see if he makes it in.

Chris Jones (6’0” 185 lbs from Adamsville, Georgia). Chris Jones is interesting. Jones has been on campus, holds a Tennessee offer, and has consistently mentioned Tennessee as one of his favorites. Auburn has always seemed to be the school to beat for Jones. Don’t consider Tennessee on the outside looking in here at all. Jones has connections to Tennessee and Lance Thompson has done a nice job keeping Tennessee in the mix with Jones this spring as his offer list has exploded. Expect him back on campus this summer and if not he’ll be here this fall.

In State "X" tra.

As mentioned right here months ago, the state of Tennessee has higher number of prospects in 2011 being recruited “high level” FBS schools than in years gone by.

Here are a few quick regarding a handful of in-state prospects to keep watch on.

Tino Thomas, Memphis Melrose. Maybe the best athlete/ defensive back in state. Thomas comes from good bloodlines. Expect Thomas to camp at Tennessee.

Cody Robinson, Offensive/Defensive Lineman, McMinnville. Robinson has had as good a spring as any prospect on Tennessee's board. Needs to follow up spring with a good showing at Tennessee's summer camp.

Christian Coleman, Defensive Lineman/Tight End. Injury plagued junior year and has caused Coleman's recruitment to be slow. Needs to have good summer and fall. Coleman, if healthy, is a top prospect in the state.

Charles Harris, Linebacker/Defensive Lineman, Whitehaven. The most underrated prospect in the state of Tennessee not named Deon Meadows.

Alexander Antoine, Antioch, Tennessee. Most underrated prospect in state not named Harris or Meadows. Plans to camp at Tennessee. This kid is on Tennessee’s radar.

Dametrius Thomas RB (5'10 185) Fulton High School- Not certain Thomas is a high level FBS prospect, he can play though. He'll touch the ball frequently this fall in Buck Coatney’s offense. Definitely one to watch


‘x’
'X' Says:'Since this is all in fun, let me throw out a couple of other scenarios that would throw the above into a tizzy. Let’s say a prospect holding an offer like an Isaac Luatua a 6'2" 300 lb center from La Mirada, California, or a Gionni Paul a 6'0" 220 lb outside linebacker from Lakeland, Florida, visits Tennessee in early June and pulls the trigger. Could well happen. Luatua has long named Tennessee as his leader. Luatua fills a real need as a bona fide center. You always have a concern about an early commitment especially from a prospect as far away from your school as Luatua. Plus, the fact that he is a very good prospect is not a secret to rival programs. Paul likes Tennessee and plans visiting Tennessee during the summer. Paul is an explosive, play making linebacker prospect something Tennessee is lacking. This one may be a prospect to watch if indeed he visits.


Here is another thought. Lance Thompson hasn't been spending most every waking hour in Georgia because he is a big Braves fan. Right now, Tennessee looks to be in good shape with a number of offensive line targets in this class that project as offensive tackles. So......., the recruiting focus appears to now have shifted to interior offensive line targets and three of the top possibilities are from the greater Atlanta. They are: Tariq Cook (center/guard from Stephenson High School); Justin Floyd (tackle guard from Cartersville, Georgia); and, Kyle Harris (guard/center from Pepperell, Georgia). These are three prospects without offers from Tennessee, but all are being recruited by Tennessee. Any one or two of the three could wind up with an offer between now and the completion of summer camps. All three like Tennessee.


None of these scenarios are out of the realm of possibilities. Should be an interesting couple of months.


Notes:


Whether you agree or disagree with this, let’s put our differences aside for a moment. Forget all the anti-Titan and anti-Commodore sentiment. Keep the folks in Nashville impacted by the floods in your prayers.


No mention of Kyle Kerbyson or Justin Worley? Don't freak out! Tennessee is in great shape with each prospect. Kerbyson is either the top or at the top list in terms of prospects most wanted by Tennessee. Worley isn't far behind. In fact, Basilio has said for weeks right here Justin Worley is the top quarterback prospect on Tennessee's board. I didn't mention either because well what fun would that be or each may visit a few other schools before finalizing their respective college decisions.



From the doing less with more file........ It is the month of May and time for the University of Georgia to start "kickin it” on the recruiting trail. Seems to happen every year about this time. Georgia gets on a recruiting roll and lands a bunch of commitments from highly rated prospects... I would expect this May and June to be no different . Doesn't seem to have translated from the recruiting trail to the field in Athens. Have to wonder if this pattern holds, how much time that Georgia staff has left.


Great sign that two highly rated prospects from Michigan plan to visit Tennessee over the summer. Wide receiver D'Anthony Arnett and running back Justice Hayes both plan to make unofficial visits to the campus over the summer. D'Arnett is a high profile wide receiver recruit who visited Tennessee last summer. Hayes is the highest rated running back Tennessee has a legitimate shot at signing...in my opinion. Both prospects hold Tennessee offers and both appear to have legitimate interest in Tennessee.


The John Brown does he get in school or doesn't he watch begins..........


Stay tuned.... I would expect more good recruiting news in the days and weeks that follow. Remember a couple more weeks of spring evaluations then summer camps.

Peace

'x'
'X' Says:The next four commitments..... Sounds fairly easy. Contrary to all the "doom and gloomers" that believe Tennessee's football program has flat lined, the football recruiting operation is alive and well. Consider that right now there are anywhere between a half-dozen and a dozen prospects, holding scholarship offers, Tennessee either leads for their commitment or Tennessee is in their top two or three schools of choice. Remember also this is the middle of the spring evaluation period. Still two full weeks of spring evaluations to go. There are another four to six prospects that would commit to Tennessee, or come close to it, if anyone one of them received a scholarship offer from Tennessee.


So, any of the next four commitments could come from any number of different directions: A prospect(s) holding a scholarship offer(s); prospects expecting to pick up an offer during spring evaluations; or, a prospect who seemingly comes out of nowhere that receives a scholarship offer based upon his performance at Tennessee summer camp as did Marquis Pair last season.




While I could throw the names of four prospects that are seemingly slam dunks, what fun is that? Those perceived “slam dunks" may not necessarily be the next four who publicly commit to Tennessee. By the way as you know by now, there is no such thing in recruiting as a "slam dunk".


Though I personally believe it is a bit too early to get hung up on the number of commitments Tennessee has or their lack thereof, here are my next four commitments.




Cameron Clear, Memphis Central High School, Memphis, Tennessee. Basilio has been singing the praises of Cameron Clear long before other outlets recognized this prospect as one the state’s best for 2011. Clear is one of the most intriguing prospects on Tennessee's board. He is a big kid (6'6" 265 lbs if you believe ESPN) and has the body type to grow into an offensive or defensive lineman. However, Tennessee, having a glaring need at tight end with the departure of Luke Stocker after the 2010 season, may look at Clear’s athleticism and project him as a tight end. Clear is no longer a secret either. He is receiving a ton of interest from many SEC schools. Tennessee is in a good place with Cameron Clear right now.


Avery Walls. It is hard to get a read on which prospect or prospects are top targets especially on the defensive side of the ball. Realizing the signing of multiple defensive linemen in 2011 is a huge positional priority; Avery Walls is a prospect that has climbed to the top or close to the top of the defensive recruiting board. Walls (5'11, 185 lbs from McDonough, Georgia) is an athletic defensive back prospect , holds scholarship offers from 25 or more schools including many SEC schools, and projects as a January enrollee. Tennessee got a bit of a late start recruiting Walls but they have done an excellent job of making up ground. Walls is the caliber of prospect that can almost be penciled in to be a significant contributor as a freshman regardless of whether you return significant secondary depth or not.


Some believe another Georgia defensive back may be closer to committing to Tennessee than Avery Walls. Brian Randolph is a name you have heard mentioned frequently with Tennessee for the longest time. He may indeed commit to Tennessee in time. However, the name I keep hearing is Avery Walls so that is what I’m going with here. Nonetheless, both very good prospects.


Rory Anderson. Anderson is a 6'4" 200 lb tight end/athlete from Powder Springs, Georgia. In addition to being a coveted football recruit, Anderson is an accomplished high school and AAU basketball player at Powder Springs. Most confidently believe Anderson's collegiate future is on the football field. Tennessee projects Anderson as a tight end who has untapped potential once he focuses strictly on football and football training. It wouldn't be a stretch for Tennessee to sign two or three tight end/athlete types in their 2011 class given our Head Football Coach's proclivity for using multiple tight end sets. Anderson doesn't look like a college tight end now at 200 pounds. I would imagine splitting time between the football field and the basketball court makes it tough to commit the necessary time to a football focused strength and conditioning program. His size and speed (4.7/40) make him an interesting recruiting target. Anderson has ties to Tennessee and has long proclaimed Tennessee as the top school on his list. Anderson may be a prospect who needs to redshirt a year and work with Coach Bennie Wylie in order to get his body SEC ready.


Thomas Niles, 6'2" 260 lbs from Gainesville, Georgia. Tennessee was the first college to offer Niles a scholarship. With defensive lineman a priority for Tennessee, Niles was identified early on as a defensive tackle prospect that fits the new scheme. Niles is a prospect expected to make a decision in the next few weeks. Niles has been to campus a couple of times and is expected back for summer camp. Tennessee and North Carolina State seem to have emerged as the co-leaders to land his commitment.

Come back tomorrow at Tonybasilio.com and I'll have some stuff on you that could throw a monkey-wrench into these four. See you then.


'X'
'X' Says:For you loyalists, who make the Basilio site a must-read every day, recall back on July 20th, 2009. It was then a report was posted entitled, " A Look Ahead - 2011 Quarterbacks". Anyone remember this? What we did was take a look ahead at a handful of the early 2011 UT’s top quarterback targets. At the conclusion of the posting, I mentioned that around March 1, 2010, I would take a look back at the prospects in the post to see which prospects emerged as legitimate 2011 quarterback targets and which ones have fallen by the wayside. I’m late…..

So much has changed between July 2009 and April …almost May 2010. While there indeed has been a regime change that jilted recruiting, the constant throughout the regime change has been that Coach Jim Chaney remains as the Offensive Coordinator. It appears, and this is just as important to recruits, the offensive scheme looks to be the same or even more quarterback friendly as the scheme ran last football season. In some respects, Jim Chaney remaining as the Offensive Coordinator has mitigated any damage done to quarterback recruiting due to the departure of Lane Kiffin.

What I have done, and I thought this was interesting, was take all the names I provided in the July 20th report, updated the list to show which prospects are still legitimate targets, and updated the list to show prospects that have gone in another direction.

The names below come directly from the July 20th report.

Christian Lemay. In July 2009, Christian Lemay was at the top if not the top target on UT’s 2011 quarterback recruiting radar. There was a certain level of interest there from the LeMay camp and he does have a UT offer. However, once Lane Kiffin and David Reaves departed, any likely opportunity UT had with Lemay went out the window.

Everett Golson. Golson holds a UT offer. However, Golson is “off the board”. He has been committed to North Carolina for months. I don’t see UT getting involved here at all.

Teddy Bridgewater. Bridgewater holds a UT offer. In my opinion, any chance of getting Bridgewater to campus and possibly to UT went out the window when Eddie Gran left for Florida State. It is unlikely Bridgewater leaves the state of Florida to play college football.

Jake Overbey, University High School in Jackson, Tennessee is “being evaluated” by UT. My translation here for “being evaluated”: There are other prospects on the 2011 quarterback board UT likes better than Overbey. Unfortunate because, he is a good looking prospect.

Michael Johnson, Briarcrest High School in Memphis: See above. Another good prospect with a big arm. Johnson is being evaluated many of the SEC schools including UT. However, at this time he doesn’t have any SEC scholarship offers.

CJ Uzomah, from North Gwinett High School, Georgia. Uzomah has a scholarship offer and is actively being recruited by UT. Uzomah likely will end up playing tight end or another other position in college not quarterback (Uzomah is a big kid (6’5/215-220 lbs). UT likes this prospect.

Austin Brown, from Habersham Central HS from Mount Airy, Georgia: No longer being recruited by UT

Tony Daniel, 6’5” 188 lbs from South Paulding HS in Douglasville, Georgia. Daniel loves UT and has been on campus many times. He does not have a scholarship offer from UT. Again, there are prospects on UT’s quarterback board projected (by UT) as better college quarterback prospects than Daniel.

Nick Marshall, 6'2" 190 lbs, Wilcox County High School, Rochelle, Georgia. Marshall is one of the top 20111 QB prospects in the state of Georgia. Marshall recently received a UT offer. Many believe Marshall winds up at wide receiver or defensive back in college. If Christian LeMay commits to Georgia as many expect, it wouldn’t surprise me for Marshall to take a closer look at UT. Still, I think it’s a long shot that he ends up at UT.

Phillip Ely, Plant High School, Tampa Florida. Not currently being recruited by UT

Jeff Driskel, 6’4” 233 lbs, Hagerty High School, Oviedo, Florida. We thought 8 months ago Jeff Driskel had the makings of a prospect that would make him one of the hottest 2011 quarterbacking commodities in the state of Florida. Driskel hasn’t disappointed. He has emerged as one of the top pro-style quarterbacks in Florida if not the nation.. Driskel has UT offer but for the time being is “off the board”. Driskel has verbally committed to the University of Florida. I’m not sure that is a great scheme fit for Driskel so his recruitment may not be finished.

David Ash, Belton High School, Belton, Texas. Ash has verbally committed to Texas and is no longer being pursued by UT.

JW Walsh, Guyer High School, Texas. UT is not actively recruiting Walsh.

Justin Worley, 6’4” 180 lbs, Rock Hill Northwestern, Rock Hill, South Carolina. Here are my July 2009 comments regarding Worley, "In addition to a rising pro-style quarterback prospect, Justin Worley may have a future as a baseball player as well. Early on, he looks to be a prototypical drop back /pro-style passer and one UT is really interested in. This is another prospect I would expect UT to make a strong run after."

Worley has emerged as the #1 Quarterback target on UT’s recruiting board…. it appears. Worley will be a top rated pro style quarterback when the national rankings are released in the not too distant future. Worley’s status as an uncommitted prospect may be something to watch. Once the top rated high school quarterbacks start committing to colleges (i.e., Golson, Driskel, and Lemay (soon)), other top rated quarterbacks tend to follow suit. Quarterbacks more so than any other position.

Here is my concern as it relates to Worley. If UT commits to Worley as their “2011 quarterback and quarterback of the future”, how committed is Worley to a future at UT or a future as a professional baseball player? This bears watching! Nonetheless, Worley is a very good prospect who has been to UT numerous times during the last year who likes UT …. A lot.

Prince Litton, Charlotte Providence Day High School, Charlotte, North Carolina. To my knowledge, UT is no longer recruiting Prince Litton.

Marquise Williams, Charlotte Mallard Creek High School, Charlotte, NC. Dual threat prospect being evaluated by UT right now.

Vad Lee, Hillside High School, Durham, North Carolina. Doesn’t appear there is anything going on here with this prospect and UT.

Brandon Allen, Fayetteville High School, Fayetteville, Arkansas. To my knowledge, UT is not recruiting Allen at this time.

Kiehl Frazier, Shiloh Christian High School, Arkansas. UT is evaluating Frazier but as of now he does not have a scholarship offer.
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So out of the nineteen quarterbacks profiled in the July 2009 report, seven of those prospects have UT offers (though two (Marshall and Uzomah) it appears are being recruited for positions other than quarterback); four other prospects are still being evaluated by UT ; and, one (Worley) of the seven offered gives all appearances of emerging as the #1 quarterback target on UT’s board.

Why do I bring this up? Each year, the high profile quarterback recruits tend to start flying off the board about this time. 2011 appears to be no different. In addition to the Driskell and Golson commitments, a Lemay commitment appears to be imminent. You can also include Matt Wittek another hotshot quarterback prospect to this list who just committed to Southern California. There are others as well.

Back to my point, if Worley is the guy, based upon recent history, I would expect we will know sooner than later whether Tennessee is his school of choice. A commitment from a high profile quarterback prospect and a couple of lineman would get the 2011 recruiting class in gear.


UT coaches have been dispatched all over the southeast as we are now in the spring evaluation period of senior to be high school football prospects. Coaches can go to high schools, visit with coaches and administrators, watch practice though coaches can’t have contact with the prospects.

One of the in state names you’ll start hearing a lot about is an in state tight end/defensive end /athlete named Cameron Clear from Central High School in Memphis. Clear seems to be a prospect that is rising up the boards with many a SEC school including Tennessee.

We told you about Cameron Clear here first…. In our March 15 report

Peace
‘x’
'X' Says:'Given UT's obvious need a for offensive line depth, I'm sure hoping our recruiting brain trust feels really, really good about where they sit with offensive line prospects like Kyler Kerbyson, Alan Posey, Antonio Richardson. Why you ask?

If you didn't feel good about your position with these prospects, why do you let offensive line prospect Trip Thurman leave Knoxville without a scholarship offer? Thurman stands 6-1 and is a biscuit over 300 pounds. He holds scholarship offers from 15 schools including Florida and he should receive an offer from Penn State during the spring evaluation period.

Thurman is a prospect who grew up a UT fan. He probably would commit on the spot or shortly thereafter if UT offered a scholarship and his recruitment would be over .

Was it not just two Saturdays ago UT didn't have enough scholarship offensive lineman to fill out the Orange and the White offensive lines?

********.

A couple of words about Jabriel Washington, the in state athlete from Trinity Christian High who verbally committed to Alabama last week. My opinion: Washington is a very good athlete and a top prospect in the state; however, Washington is not a huge loss to UT's 2011 recruiting class.

Washington wasn't at the top of UT's board for similarly skilled athletes and he wasn't even at the top of their board for similarly skilled athletes in the state of Tennessee.

I'm calling Derek King from Brentwood the #1 in-state athlete /corner back prospect on UT's board. If your read 'X', you'll recall that I have mentioned Derek King before. King runs a 4.32 forty is a state 100 meter champion and was one of the very first prospects the new UT staff offered a scholarship once they got settled in. Also, Tino Thomas a similarly skilled defensive back/athlete from the Memphis area UT is another athlete UT is very interested in although Thomas has yet to be offered a scholarship.

UT covets defensive back/athletes Avery Walls from McDonough Georgia, and Ronnie Harris from Westlake, Georgia. Walls and Harris have had exceptional high school careers to date against much tougher high school competition than Jabriel Washington.

Any school, including UT, never really wants to lose an instate prospect to a rival. However, losing Washington, who I'm not sure UT ever had much of a shot anyway, isn't a huge setback.

Are you ready for recruiting news? Most are without question. We are coming up on the spring evaluations period where staff members can be out evaluating prospects. I would expect the recruiting activity including new recruiting news to begin to ramp up between now until the end of May.

*********.

It is that time of the year when enough grade /test score information trickles out on three or four kids in your signing class you'll worry about until they get on campus. This year is no exception. All eyes will be on John Brown, the JUCO defensive tackle, for sure. Right now, most seem cautiously optimistic that Brown will get in school at UT. However, it is important that he gets on campus in June not August. Brown is already being counted on to provide much needed and much lacking defensive tackle depth this fall. You get him on campus in June, where he can participate in summer conditioning, he has a chance to be more than just another name on your depth chart this season. Though a little different circumstance, remember last season Marlon Walls missed all summer and pre-season workouts? Walls was never really much of a factor last season and was never really in playing shape either..

UT has not had tremendous success with JUCOs, the admissions process, and getting JUCOs enrolled with relative ease. Here is hoping Brown is an exception.

************.
Few draft observations:

Im still in shock over the Broncos drafting Tim Tebow;

Love Jon Gruden but ESPN's coverage on the first two days of the draft seemed choppy. The NFL didn't give ESPN enough time between draft picks for all their on camera to get their two cents worth in. NFL Network seemed to do a much better job in this respect.

Roughly as many kids that were rated as 2 -stars coming out of high school got drafted in the first round as did kids that were rated as 5-stars (six of each ) .... varies slightly depending on which recruiting service you use ;

Mamas let your babies grow up to be tight ends! I lost count but somewhere between 22 and 24 tight ends got drafted over the weekend. Almost twice as many tight ends were drafted as running backs. Says as much about offensive coordinators trying to create mismatches offensively as it does about the same offensive coordinators trying to counter defenses which seem to be bringing more and more pressure coming off the edge ;

I confess I watched plenty of the draft each day. Was it just me or did it seem that almost every other defensive back drafted was from the state of Florida?

I bet Monte had a lot to do with Rico McCoy signing as a free agent with Tampa Bay. That is a great spot for him and I wish him luck.

Check back later this week or maybe the top of next when I bring you some stuff on the QB's UT is looking at.

Peace

'X'
'X' Says:Young team, not much depth, but I think they’ll be fun to watch


They have weapons....


Milton has a chance to be really good before he leaves here


Poole is very good


Jones is best wide receiver but I’m ready for him to leave


Believe we may have something to talk about until September


Bray clearly looks like the better QB..... Better touch, better arm, moves around in pocket really well... very impressed with Bray


Young and there will be bumps in the road with him but he looked anything but like a freshman


When you split the teams up like they have you see just how thin they are in the lines especially the offensive line


If one of those freshman coming in Fulton, Stone, pair are physically ready (I saw Fulton and my gosh he looks ready right now) my guess is they'll get every chance to be a starter.

They need some size inside.


Not worried about defense think they'll be ok especially if john brown or the kid from Warner-Robbins can give em some snaps.


The back up defensive tackles didn’t stand out at all... Marlon Walls needs about 15/20 lbs on him or he'll get hammered…..This is one of UT’s their biggest concerns


This will be a good defense if they don’t get hammered by injuries.


Jacquez Smith looks huge ...What an off-season in the weight room!

Austin Johnson looks at home as linebacker...

We have very young secondary but all those kids look very athletic...

Gordon reminds me a lot of Rogan.

Janzen Jackson is our best player...

All around better than I expected...

Crowd was better than I expected too!!!

Should be a fun team to watch!!!

‘X’
'X' Says:While I had the opportunity to attend , I opted out of going to the “pay per view” event Saturday afternoon. While out and about, I caught a couple of the local call in radio shows which I found interesting. My take, from listening to these shows, was how so many can have such a bleak outlook on the 2010 football season when so few have had a chance to watch practices and decide for themselves.

So much worry about the offensive line. I recall that last season UT started two walk-ons, a redshirt freshman tackle with no game experience, and two other career under performers across the offensive front for most of the season. There didn’t seem to be near as much doom and gloom emanating from fans last year with that ensemble when compared to what UT will trot out on the field in early September 2010.

UT fans should note there is life after inexperienced offensive lines. Last season, North Carolina started three freshman on its offensive line. Granted the ACC is not the SEC, but North Carolina's offensive line held their own and ended up rushing for an average of roughly 130 yards per game over a 13 game schedule. This year, North Carolina’s offensive line looks to be one of its strengths.. but I digress.

Every fan has his/her own opinion about the upcoming season, the state of the program, recruiting, whether Coach Dooley wears enough orange and so on. What I found most interesting is many seem to be laying blame for the current plight of the program at the feet of Coach Dooley. This new coach does come across a bit bristly at times, but the state of the program is not of his doing. Last I checked, he was able to reel in a top 10 recruiting class literally with one hand tied behind his back.

The infrastructure of the football program has been eroding for a few years. Anyone close to it will tell you as much. Coach Kiffin and his regime did little to change things except chase off a few kids that could not play SEC football and rally a faction of the fan base.

The dip in talent and the lack of experience has been coming for a couple of years. Even former Coach Kiffin publicly stated toward the end of the 2009 season, the 2010 season was going to be a challenge under the best circumstances and it probably will be.

I heard one account stating that over the last few years thirty or more scholarship players have left the UT football program for one reason or another and approximately one-third to one –half of these players that left the program were offensive/defensive lineman.


That, in itself, is hard to overcome. Most think this is the sole reason why our interior line depth is virtually non-existent. Truly, it does appear along the way there were some hiccups associated with personnel and recruiting evaluations.


However, I maintain this is only part of the recruiting faux paus that have contributed to the depletion of the talent and experience along the interior lines. Do any of these names ring a bell? David Spurlock (Florida State); Garrett Reynolds and Michael McAdoo (North Carolina); Greg Hardy (Ole Miss); Michael Hoag (Wake Forest); Wesley Johnson (Vanderbilt); James Williams (Vanderbilt) ; Alex Hurst (LSU); Jeremy Jarmon (Kentucky), and, Will Jackson (Georgia Tech). All of these kids are instate lineman and for whatever reason UT either passed on these kids or slow played their recruitments to the point all decided to pursue their football careers at other schools. I contend most - maybe not all - of these in-state kids would have loved to have had the opportunity to play college football for UT.

On some of these kids, you can’t really say much except UT just drop the ball evaluation-wise. Some will say, a couple of these kids are nothing more than ACC caliber lineman which may be a fair point. However, maybe, one or two of these ACC caliber lineman could have been pieces to the puzzle that are sorely needed right now at UT and more importantly would have provided needed depth. Full disclosure here: The list of interior lineman above is off the top of my head at midnight. I’m sure there are probably more….. Don’t even get me started on in-state skill guys that ended up going other places…..

Here is my point and take it for what it is worth …. Look at the attrition that has taken place in this program. Look at all the kids UT has mis-evaluated or just simply didn’t recruit that have gone on to have respectable football careers elsewhere. Look at all the high profile recruits UT has signed (sans Eric Berry) that have fizzled out once they got to campus, and all those recruits fans ooohed and aaaawed over who never made it to campus because of academics or other reasons.

With all that needs “fixin” around this football program, the entire personnel evaluations, recruiting and personal/player development process should be right at the top of the list. If you read some comments made by staff members, I think that is their contention as well. Now on to recruiting…….

This new recruiting approach is gonna be tough on you star gazers and those who are into comparing UT’s recruiting ranking against its rivals. The 2011 class Coach Dooley will assemble is going to be full of offensive/defensive lineman some of whom will not be highly thought of by the recruiting services. However, these will be prospects the coaching staff believes are smart football players, fit their schemes, can get in school, and want to be at UT.

Tracking 2011 recruiting, I’m convinced UT is laying the groundwork to meet its biggest needs which is offensive and defensive lineman in this and future recruiting classes. Why am I convinced? I give you two reasons for starters - Harry Hiestand and Chuck Smith.

Coach Heistand is not a household name but he is a very good offensive line coach. Most importantly, he, Coach Chaney and Coach Dooley are all on the same page. The guy has almost thirty years of coaching offensive linemen and tight ends in both college and the NFL. Remember that while Coach Hiestand was at Illinois, he coached 12 All-Big Ten Conference offensive lineman and every starting offensive lineman he coached during his first five or six years with Illinois had the opportunity to play in the NFL. He also coached in the NFL for the Chicago Bears. My guess is he knows what to look for when evaluating offensive line prospects and doesn’t pay too much attention to stars or rankings beside a prospects name. He will not be overwhelmed with the task of rebuilding UT’s offense line.

On defense, most every UT fan is intrigued about how well Chuck Smith takes to rigors of coaching and recruiting on the collegiate level. Coach Smith is every bit as intense as our previous defensive line coach everyone was in love with. This little tidbit on Coach Smith is interesting and I feel confident it has been passed along to many a defensive line prospect. During the first five rounds of the 2009 NFL draft, 9 of the defensive lineman drafted were personally trained by Chuck Smith. This would be impressive to any 18 year old defensive lineman with aspirations to play on Sundays.

If these two coaches think a kid has what it takes to play at this level, I’m inclined to trust their evaluations.

Let’s put things in perspective. Its April 2010, this staff has been together for 2 plus months, high school coaches, parents and prospects still have much to learn about these coaches, and UT has yet to run a play from scrimmage that counts. Also, high school prospect rankings by the recruiting services are a work in process, many prospects have not been ranked/evaluated, and spring evaluations which start within the next few weeks will be important to this new staff. So there are a bunch of loose ends associated with recruiting to be sure.

Right now, it appears UT is a little ahead in its pursuit of offensive lineman compared to defensive lineman.

Starting with the obvious: Folks that follow UT's recruiting are familiar with the four names at the top of UT's offensive lineman want list: Kyler Kerbyson, Antonio Richardson, Watts Dantzler, and Alan Posey. I would not go as far as to say UT is a clear cut leader for each prospect, but it would be fair to say UT is in good position with each.

One note here, UT is back in the middle of the recruiting battle for North Carolina prospect Eric MacLain. MacLain was at one time projected to be an offensive tackle and he may still grow into an offensive tackle. Currently, MacLain is being recruited as a tight end by UT and others. If you like following recruiting dramas, Eric MacLain’s recruitment is one you may want to follow.

There is a clear second level of offensive line prospects that have been on campus or are heading to campus that have a clear interest in UT. Here are a few names: Trip Thurman (6’5” 300 pounds from Dover, Delaware); Jason Rexroad (6’3” 270 pounds Myrtle Beach, SC); Tyler Philpott (6’2” 280 pounds Columbus, North Carolina); Justin Floyd (6’5” 290 pounds Cartersville, Georgia); Hunter Long (6’4” 280 pounds from Briarcrest Christian, Tennessee); and, Lamont Hardy (6’5” 320 pounds from Lovejoy, Georgia) just to name a few. Expect a handful of these prospects to be on campus this week to watch practice or this weekend for the Orange and White Game.

As I have said before, 2010 is a very good year for in state talent particularly for offensive lineman. I mentioned many of these prospects in a previous posting. These kids will continue to be evaluated as UT moves in spring evaluations and the summer camp circuit.


• Keep an eye out for other offense lineman to show up on the radar. Prospects like Tarik Cook (6’2” 290 pounds from Stephenson High School, Stone Mountain, Georgia), and an Ohio prospect Ryan Kelly (6’5”, 265 pounds) from Lakota West to name a couple.

I’m holding out hope that out of this bunch one or two of these kids snap the ball to the QB.

**********.
It seems like there is more heavy lifting to do associated with the defensive line recruiting. With our three top defensive ends leaving after this season , UT will start being mentioned more prominently with defensive line prospects as the season draws closer.

UT is fighting an uphill recruiting battle for each of the top three defensive line prospects on their board. Ray Drew is a highly sought after defensive end prospect from Georgia and UT looks to be on the outside looking in as Georgia and Florida State appear to be his early leaders; Jeff Pagan, a defensive end /defensive tackle prospect from Asheville, North Carolina, has Florida clearly ahead of all other suitors right now; and, Sterling Bailey, another highly sought after defensive end from Georgia, has Georgia ahead of everyone else at this juncture. Particularly with Pagan and Bailey their recruitments are far from being over…….

I haven’t been able to confirm whether any of the following prospects will be in town for the Orange and White game (Jeff Pagan (above) is a possible attendee) but here are a few prospects that don’t have offers but are being recruited and will be further evaluated during the spring and summer. Defensive end Barron Dixon (6’4” 255 pounds from Alpharetta, Georgia); Defensive tackle Gerald Dixon (6’2” 255 pounds from Rock Hill, South Carolina); Defensive end Brandon Fulse (6’5” 250 pounds from Fort Meade, Florida); defensive end/tackle Giovanni Francois (6’2” 250 pounds from Bradenton, Florida); Defensive tackle Devonte Brown (6’4” 260 pounds from Fayetteville, North Carolina) ; defensive tackle David Washington (6’2” 270 pounds Lovejoy, Georgia); and, Chris Mayes (6’4” 290 pounds from Spaulding, Georgia).

Also, don’t forget there are a number of in state defensive line prospects especially in middle to west Tennessee that are being recruited by UT as well as the above prospects.


Again, it is going to be interesting to see what kids make it in for practice this week and for the Orange and White game.

All I have for now. More to follow .


You should tell the new station owner to fix the internet stream. Many out of market people look to you to keep them up to date on what is going on with UT athletics.


‘X’
'X' Says:'UT picked up its first football commitment for the 2011 recruiting class over the weekend from Christian Harris of Etowah High School in Woodstock, Georgia. Harris is 6'1" - 6'2" ish and weighs around 225 pounds and is being recruited by UT as a middle linebacker though he has spent most of his playing time in high school as an outside linebacker.


In pre-season watch lists, Harris is not projected as a top 100 player in Georgia for the 2011 high school football season. To be fair, it is way too early in the 2011 recruiting season and state rankings for most states including Georgia are still works in progress.


I have been able to find out a bit of information from someone in the high school coaching fraternity who has seen him play. Take it for what it is....


First, Harris is known to be a good kid, from a good family, with good bloodlines. Harris’ father played college football in the SEC (quarterback at UGA in the early to mid 1980s).


Coaches will not need to be shown Harris where the weight room is. Harris is already known as one of the top power lifters in his weight class in the state of Georgia.


While I do not feel qualified to voice an informed opinion about a prospect's skills, I have been sent and watched video of Christian Harris as a junior. My coaching friend who has seen him play a few times says as an outside linebacker, "he shows up on film but he does not stand out". In fairness, video shows Harris playing as an outside linebacker while UT is recruiting him as a middle linebacker.


Harris is a Lance Thompson recruit which makes me feel good about this prospect and the commitment. Remember Michael Taylor? Not many of us knew about Michael Taylor a year or so ago. Look how his stock rose throughout Taylor’s senior season and post season all star games. How many Vol fans would like for Michael Taylor to be wearing orange next year?


Also, remember last year/previous regime, I believe UT missed out on more than one prospect who choose other schools because UT waited too long to take their commitment . Coincidentally, those prospects were recruited by Lance Thompson.


And, for you readers enamored with stars it’s a little too early in the process. Harris is not yet rated by Scout, Rivals, or ESPN and he doesn't have a ton of offers. In fact, UT's offer may have been his only one to date. Also, Etowah High does not have a track record of turning out high profile college football prospects and my guess though I don't know for certain is that Harris did not spend a lot of time making the camp circuit as a junior. Therefore, sounds to me like this is the kind of prospect that may go largely unnoticed by a Scout or a Rivals service until Harris makes the camp circuit this upcoming summer.


If Coaches Thompson and Dooley think he can play, right now that works for me. Coach Dooley isn't taking a commitment just to take a commitment. Too much at stake. He knows it.


Should expect lots of visitor news over the next week as pad poppin starts tomorrow


Good luck Basketvols


Support our baseball players


'X'
'X' Says:'Anyone besides me ready for spring football practice? Can I get an amen? I thought last year was the most anticipated UT spring football practice in recent memory; however, you could make the argument there are as many or even more compelling storylines attached to the looming 2010 spring practice that will make this spring even more intriguing than any in recent memory.

Face it; the Big Orange fan base really doesn't know these coaches except for Masers. Chaney and Thompson. Some may have an idea what the offense will look like under Jim Chaney and how it will differ from Lane Kiffin’s but not really. Does anyone really have an idea what to expect from a Justin Wilcox defense given talent left for him to work with? From a coach them up perspective, let’s see what Chuck Smith can do with our returning defense lineman and pass rushers. These are just storylines for the coaching staff.

Let’s get to players. I want to see the dozen or so redshirts from Lane Kiffin's lone signing class and the handful of mid-term enrollees.... in pads. Most have matured physically. It will fun to watch how they progress under the new staff and schemes leading up to the Orange and White game. Be honest, many these kids are going to be counted on to contribute this fall. Anyone else interested to see which players change positions this spring, who steps ahead of the pack at quarterback, running back, and corner, which players flourish under the new staff, and which players falter?

*************.

The UT fans are no different than most SEC fan bases. Fan bases live in the now and it’s a “what have you done for us lately” mentality. Seems like many have forgot about Coach Dooley and a hastily halfway assembled coaching staff haued in a consensus top ten recruiting class just six weeks ago. True though, since then Coach Dooley has shunned most media opportunities, it does feel like National Signing Day was six months ago and like the air has been let out of the Program to some extent. So, bring on spring practice. Remember Rajaan Neal, Da-Rick Rogers, Nash Nance and James Stone (and others) will be on UT's campus this summer because of the efforts of Coach Dooley and the new staff.

While less ... what the best word here.... flamboyant than the former staff, Coach Dooley and staff have been hard at work. Lots to be done. The day Coach Dooley accepted the job he was immediately playing catch up in recruiting. First, he was faced with keeping midterm enrollees in school, salvaging the remainder of the 2010 recruiting class and already behind looking toward the 2011 and 2012 recruiting classes. Now with a full complement of coaches and a recruiting coordinator, much of their time has been spent looking to the immediate future (evaluating 2011 prospects, putting the final touches on recruiting events this spring, targets of spring evaluations and their summer camp schedule) with one eye looking ahead for 2012. One note here. 2012 looks to be another good year for football prospects in the state of Tennessee and the state of Georgia.

************.

Unless you just popped up from a winter slumber, you know the recruiting priorities for this staff in 2011 are lineman ... on both sides of the ball and lots of them. With that being said, there are a couple of other things picked up on over the last week that are worthy of sharing. There is not a ton of fresh recruiting information out there. I would be lying if I said there was.

First, the whole recruiting approach has and will look different. Maybe not so much outwardly but its different... Without getting real specific let’s just say the approach is more focused and organized. Think the general public will see this over time. Thank goodness for organization. The previous recruiting structure oft times resembled what you would find in a spring break beach house shared by a flock of twenty-somethings.



Next, UT has been very active in its evaluation and pursuit of quarterback prospects. This is Jim Chaney's offense now and outside of the Nash Nance recruitment, who really knows how much Coach Chaney was involved in the Nick Lamaison, Matt Simms, or Tyler Bray recruitments? Nick Stephens, the heir apparent to the quarterback spot, will be gone after this season and it is possible that somewhere between March 18 and December 1st UT could lose another quarterback, in addition to Nick Stephens, for whatever reason...maybe lack of opportunity, not a fit with the new scheme, or just looking for greener pastures... Coach Chaney might be looking for his own type of quarterback and that may not necessarily be a pro style type.

For those who have been already following 2011 recruiting, the early quarterback names connected to UT are familiar ones. UT has extended scholarship offers to Stephen Rivers from Alabama (brother of Phillip Rivers); Justin Worley from Rock Hill, South Carolina; and Jeff Disked from the Orlando, Florida area. Drinker’s is a prospect whose stock has skyrocketed up many recruiting boards based upon his recent performances at these early season all star skills events. All these kids were shown recruiting love by the former staff and are all pro style type quarterbacks.


UT has offered a scholarship to one of the top dual threat quarterbacks in the country that being Braxton Miller a 6'3" 190 lb prospect from Huber Heights, Ohio. You may not know Braxton Miller's name now but you will by December. Miller will be one of the most coveted recruits in the country for 2011 before all said and done. Miller is an athletic quarterback prospect (nice arm and good feet) may well fit Coach Chaney's offense because of the ability to make a play or two with his legs better than some of the other pro style prospects under consideration. Every school in the country will have an interest in Braxton Miller. UT has offered a couple other dual threat quarterback prospects but seems to this point Coach Chaney has done an good recruiting job so far of keeping UT in the picture with Braxton Miller.

Is it possible that if UT loses another quarterback in addition to Nick Stephens after the season they would sign two quarterbacks in 2011? Keep these prospects in mind if UT does opt to go the pro style route and prospects like Worley, Disked or Rivers don’t work out. Michael Johnson a 6'6" 200 lb prospect from Briarwood , Tennessee, and Tony Daniel a 6"5" 190 lb prospect from South Paulding High School in Douglassville, Georgia. Both are raw prospects with big throwing arms. Though neither have a scholarship offer from UT, both are in the conversation.

For each prospect, spring evaluations, summer camps and strong performances this fall will be key. Johnson and Daniel have long been interested in UT, attended UT’s Junior Day in February, and are expected back on campus this spring along with the other quarterback prospects mentioned above. Johnson in particular is getting a lot of SEC interest.

***********.
Another position of recruiting interest that may interest only me is the tight end position and prospects that play tight end in high school that project at other positions in college. With Luke Stocker graduating, UT will be looking for a down the field tight end threat or two that can step in at the start of the 2011 season and contribute. Seems word has too leaked out Coach Chaney will employ a lot of multiple tight end sets eventually. The bodies aren’t there now to do this on a regular basis.

Accordingly, UT really stepped up its recruiting of tight end prospects. They have their sights set high already offering scholarships to three of the nation’s top 2011 tight end prospects: Jay Rome from Valdosta, Georgia; Nick O'Leary from West Palm Beach, Florida; and, Austin Sefarian Jenkins from Gig Harbor, Washington. Tough to imagine any one of those kids winding up at UT in all honestly.

There is a close second tier of tight end prospects possessing good athleticism and speed that could very well stay at tight end, slide inside to an offensive tackle, or maybe even move to a defensive line position. Heaven knows UT has needs at each and every one of these positions.

Prospects (with offers) at this tier include Eric McClain from Fayetteville, North Carolina; Jeff Huererman from Naples, Florida; and Rory Anderson from McEachern High in Georgia. Commonality here is big, athletic kids with speed that could play multiple positions.

UT seems to be ahead of the curve at the tight end position but look for them to remain active in evaluating/recruiting tight end or athletes of similar builds to tight end prospects for reasons mentioned above. Here are four of these type athletes UT is evaluating. Only one Bryant DuBose, has an offer from UT. The others could pick up offers as the recruiting evaluation process continues.

Two of the four prospects are in state prospects. These kids along with other in state prospects are going to be closely evaluated by this staff. This staff at least early on seems more serious about evaluating in state kids compared to the last two coaching staffs.... my opinion here.

The two in state prospects are tight end/athlete types are Keilyn Wells and Cameron Clear. Keilyn Wells is a 6'5" 225 lb tight end/athlete from one of the best football programs in Tennessee, Whitehaven High School. Next, there is Cameron Clear a 6"5" 265 lb prospect from Memphis Central High School. Keep an eye on both. Interest in each is just beginning to pick up (SEC schools like Alabama and Auburn have shown interest) .Both have interest in Tennessee.

Also, there is Drew Owens from Charlotte, North Carolina. Owens, at 6"5" 230 lbs, is projected to be one of the top prospects at any position in North Carolina for 2011. Owens already holds scholarship offers from most of the ACC schools and two or three SEC schools. Owens is another prospect that continues to be evaluated.


Then there is Bryant Dubose a 6'3" 225 lbs from Northeast High School in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Dubose has a scholarship offer and has UT toward the top of his list. DuBose is probably ticketed to defensive end in college but he is big athletic kid and is one UT identified and offered fairly early in the 2011 recruiting process which speaks volumes to me. At the end of the day, Miami will be tough to beat for DuBose....


******.

Couple of other items

Here is something that does not bother me so much as I found it odd. With the depth at running back and at the wide receiver positions and for this early in the recruiting process, UT has offered scholarships to a disproportionate number of running back/wide receiver/athlete type prospects. Disproportionate in terms of the number of prospects offered this early versus the perceived 2011 recruiting need(s) (i.e., LINEMAN)

Lots of you have been waiting for an uptick in recruiting activity. Expect it soon when spring practice gets ramped up (end of March leading up to the Orange and White game).

This is a good year for in-state football prospects especially lineman. Many in-state kids will get serious consideration from Tennessee and other schools.

Support the UT baseball players………

Who Am I…? X am I'
'X' Says:'Kyler Kerbyson, lineman from Knox Catholic . I would feel good about.....

Jeff Pagan. Long ways to go but I see his recruitment when all said and done to UT/Florida/North Carolina

Jabriel Washington... Bama is team to beat

Antonio Richardson, Give Tennessee a good shot here

A few to feel good about:

Brian Randolph, safety from Georgia

Alan Posey, lineman Georgia

Still believe Tennessee will be in the thick of it for CJ Uzomah (big time athlete) from North Gwinett, Georgia AND Jay Rome #1 tight end prospect in country from Valdosta , Georgia.......

Note: One of Chuck Smith's pupils is Derek Morgan DE from Georgia Tech project as a top 15 pick in the upcoming draft. Think those defensive ends/tackles from Georgia notice that.'

Note II: The new staff has already formally extended scholarships to five (5) in state prospects compared to last year Kiffin's group only offered 4 in state prospects

There are at least a 4 to 8 or more in state prospects that it wouldn't surprise me if they ultimately receive offers.'

'x'
'X' Says:'The University of Tennessee Football Program is holding its first recruiting event of the 2011 recruiting campaign on Saturday with what most schools refer to as “Junior Day”. In the business world, these type of gatherings are referred to as “dog and pony” shows. It is what it is.

Coach Dooley has been swimming upstream since accepting the Head Coach job roughly 6 weeks ago. Consider too he assigned the title of recruiting coordinator to Mickey Joseph who he brought with him from Louisiana Tech and his staff chocked full of coaches (outside of Lance Thompson and Jim Chaney) that, to be honest, don’t have a ton of recruiting experience in the Southeast or against SEC schools for that matter.

Even with these perceived disadvantages and only being on the job a few weeks, you should expect a fairly good turnout of prospects here on Saturday. I have my “list of prospects” tentatively planning to attend and it stands at 40 or so…. The thing is you never really know until the morning of the event because kids and their schedules change. However, I easily expect more than 50 prospects to attend.


A few things about Junior Day. Five of the top in state lineman in the 2011 class (Antonio Richardson, Kyle Kerbyson and Zac Cooper from Knoxville Catholic, Hunter Long, and Cody Robinson) plan to attend; all have fairly high interest in UT even Hunter Long whose brother is at Georgia; and, Robinson's father Ray is a former Vol from the mid 1980s; lots of Georgia talent will be here Saturday including five or six of the top ten 2011 prospects from the state of Georgia including Jay Rome - Valdosta; Damian Swann - Grady; CJ Uzomah, North Gwinett (hope he brings his teammate Brandon McGowan); Xzavier Dickson - Griffin; and Brain Randolph from Kell. One of best middle linebackers in the Southeast CJ Johnson from Philadephia, Mississippi will attend as will Zeph Grimes strong safety/linebacker type from Bamburg, South Carolina .

*************************

In time, Coach Dooley and his staff will become a more “effective” recruiting staff compared to the former staff. The former staff was not what I would call a “well-oiled machine” when it came to recruiting. While the former staff was full of coaches who were excellent recruiters, all recruiting related decisions were dominated by two Coaches (Orgeron and Lane Kiffin). Also, the two “decision makers” openly bemoaned the fact about it was so difficult to get good players interested in coming to UT. Thought that was what good recruiters got paid to do. Never heard former Coach Gran or Coach Thompson complain about it.

Though much remains to be seen and everyone will be watching to evaluate Coach Dooley’s recruiting prowess and approach, it does appears early on recruiting will become a much more collaborative undertaking with Coach Dooley and Lance Thompson has got to like that.

Speaking of Coach Thompson, many UT followers expected him to be named Recruiting Coordinator not Mickey Joseph when Coach Dooley finalized his staff assignments. Don’t read too much into that. Being a Recruiting Coordinator involves a considerable amount of time “coordinating and administrating” not doing direct recruiting work. Trust me I know of what I speak about here. Lance Thompson needs to be doing what he is so very good at and that is recruiting not coordinating recruiting.

While my opinion does not count for much, my opinion is 2011 recruiting -after a slow beginning - is now getting in motion. Look for a much larger recruiting event/turnout for the Orange and White Game in April. That is the plan....

*************************

Still can’t figure out why UT is not camped out en masse in Asheville, North Carolina, trying to make up recruiting ground with Jeff Pagan. This one is a head scratcher. This UT football team has a dire need for defensive lineman especially those that have a chance to play at an elite level. In Pagan, you have a defensive line prospect who is roughly 6’4” 250 pounds and reportedly runs a 4.6/4.7 forty. Pagan may not a well known prospect around Lake Loudon Boulevard in Knoxville but he is well known around other football facilities virtually from one coast to the other.

I never have nor will I ever profess to be a talent evaluator… but given that Pagan holds offers from 20 plus schools including the likes of Florida, Alabama, Georgia, USC, LSU, Ohio State, Florida State, and Notre Dame I’m inclined to believe the kid can play a little and I’m even more inclined to wonder why UT isn't mentioned AT ALL with this kid.

Here is what I can’t figure out. The East Tennessee area including western North Carolina is not like Atlanta, Georgia; or Tampa, Florida; or Baton Rouge, Louisiana; or Miami, Florida; or, well you get it. You can shake a tree in those areas and find a handful of very good high level Division 1 football prospects and maybe a good defensive line prospect who has the potential to be a great one. Prospects like Pagan don’t come around this area very often. To that point I consider prospects from Asheville, North Carolina “in-state" prospects. Closer than Nashville about same distance as Chattanooga….You have to check this kid out dont you? By the way, found this interesting… Pagan attends the same high school as Leonard Little did back in his day.

All I got for now

Peace 'x'
'X' Says:'Though ESPN, Rivals or Scout have not published any 2011 rankings ESPN has 7 Tennessee prospects on their 2011 ESPN 150 Watch List. This is unprecedented for the state of Tennessee.

In 2011, there are three in state quarterback prospects: Michael Johnson- Briarcrest, Memphis (Threw for 21 TDs as a junior); Jake Overbey- Jackson (2,700 passing yards, 44 TDs); and, Mike Wegzyn 6’5” 220 lbs at Knoxville Catholic are three quarterback prospects being evaluated by any number of schools including UT.

In terms of running backs prospects, Artaves Gibson- Mitchell, Memphis; Jeremiah Bryson- Smyrna; Gerald Sensabaugh from Kingsport Dobyns-Bennett are probably the top three in the state of Tennessee maybe add Devrin Young from Knox Bearden in there too). These four really don’t have to take a back seat to very many running back prospects in the Southeast…. Gibson and Young for sure will get looks from UT.. Not certain about Bryson or Sensabaugh through both already have ACC offers.

John Brice said yesterday on the show that 'nobody (in this class in the state) compares to Stone or Jacquez? C'Mon! I love em both and glad they both are Vols.....But Antonio Richardson, Jabriel Washington, this Kerbyson kid, the Redden kid from Memphis are all as talented as Stone and Smith at the same time in their careers... Those four kids also have or will have offers from ALL the big schools. Watch and see...

There are many more top level prospects than can play in the SEC this year compared to last as well. Time will tell on this but I'm very confident he is wrong in his assessment of the in state talent for 2011.

I love John Brice and respect the job he does day in and day out, but today I completely disagree with him.

My two cents worth.

Check Back

'X''
'X' Says:2011.... First Look Ahead.... Defensive Backs and Linebackers


Four quick things. Under defensive backs I have included cornerbacks, safeties, and "athletes"; a few of the outside linebacker names listed "project" as defensive ends in college; this is an early list fluid and sure to change; and, Georgia is just loaded with Division 1 prospects.


Defensive Backs

In-state to start. Tennessee could meet a big part of its 2011 defensive backs needs with in state prospects. Cornerback/"athlete" Jabriel Washington (5' 11" 170 pounds) from Trinity Christian Academy maybe be the # 1 prospect in the state for 2011. Washington is a talent and, though the level of competition he plays against is questionable, he is being recruited by most of the SEC power programs. Washington has a Tennessee offer and is a top 2011 priority. Look for Washington to attend UT's upcoming junior day at the end of February.

Lonnie Ballentine is a 6'3" 190 pound safety prospect from Southwind High School in Memphis. Ballentine plays safety in high school and may move to outside linebacker type in college. Ballentine holds a UT offer and is too a priority. Ballentine has interest from LSU, Alabama and other major college programs. Ballentine projects to as a January 2011 enrollee.

Another in state defensive back that is beginning to garner attention from a number of colleges is Tino Thomas. Thomas, a 6'0" 190 pound "athlete" attending Melrose High School in Memphis, Tennessee. Thomas is a top 10 - top 15 type prospect in the state for 2011. With spring evaluations, summer camps, and a full senior season ahead, my guess Thomas will shoot up many a 2011 recruiting boards.

There is one more in state defensive back/athlete prospect sure to fly under the radar but is worth paying attention to. Derek King a 5’10” 180 pound defensive back/athlete from Brentwood Academy. King is sure to draw more interest as the season nears. He may be one of the best “athletes” playing football in the state as King is a very accomplished track star. Auburn has already shown interest.

OUT OF STATE


Hakeem Flowers, is a 6'3" 180 pound 'athlete" from Greenville, South Carolina. Flowers has one of the most impressive offer lists of any prospect Tennessee is recruiting. Flowers has a committable Tennessee offer and our new staff has significant interest in Flowers. Expect Flowers to give Tennessee a closer look between now and next February.

Jaquese Kirk, is a 5'11" 180 pounds defensive back Walker High School, in Jasper, Alabama. Kirk may be one of the top defensive back in the state of Alabama for 2011. Alabama loaded up on defensive backs in 2010 and the number of defensive backs they take in 2011 will be limited. Nonetheless, Bama and Auburn for that matter will still get their fair share. However, their backlogs at defensive back may open a door with Kirk for Tennessee.

Dominque Terrell, 5’ 11” 180 pound defensive back/athlete from Osbourne Park High School in Manassas, Virginia. Though many states are only beginning to publish preliminary 2011 “watch lists”, Terrell may well end up being the top-ranked prospect in Virginia . Whether as a quarterback, running back, kick returner or as a defensive back, Terrell has caught the eye of major college programs all up and down the eastern seaboard. Tennessee has interest. Appears Penn State is an early leader.

Tyler Hunter, 6’0” 190 pounds from Lowndes, Valdosta, Georgia. Hunter who holds a UT offer is already receiving interest from most every SEC school. Another Division 1 defensive back produced by the state of Georgia.

Clifton Richardson 6’1” 200 pounds from Menchville High School, Newport News, Virginia. In college, Richardson likely winds up at strong safety or linebacker. Previous UT staff offered Richardson and Richardson was high on their board. New staff has interest as well.

TJ Thorpe, 5’11” 175 pound defensive back/athlete type from Jordan High School, Charlotte North Carolina. Thorpe who runs a 4.4 forty is one of those prospects who is just beginning to have college recruiters show up on his doorstep. Garnering interest from ACC and a few SEC schools including Tennessee.

Zeph Grimes, 6’0” 200 pound strong safety prospect from Eberhardt High School in Bamberg, South Carolina. Tennessee is interested as are many SEC schools. Some already are saying the battle for Grimes is shaping up as a South Carolina/Clemson match. Interesting to see if Grimes shows up for Junior Day.

TK Fleming, 6’3” 200 pounds defensive back from Benton High School in Benton, Louisiana. Fleming has relationship with Coach Dooley and Coach Joseph from their Louisiana Tech days. Already holds approximately 10 offers including one from UT. LSU has not offered and will be tough to beat if they do.

Bruce Dukes, 5’10” 170 pound cornerback from Sandy Creek High School in Tyrone, Georgia. Another SEC-caliber defensive back prospect from one of better high school programs in Georgia. Dukes already holds an offer from Mississippi State and is receiving interest from Auburn and Tennessee.

Avery Walls, 5'11" 184 pounds defensive back from Union Grove High School in McDonough, Georgia. The thing to remember with all these Georgia defensive backs is Georgia signed four defensive backs in its 2010 signing class and already has two defensive back/athletes committed for its 2011 class. Walls is a highly regarded prospect that I don't see Georgia having room for. Walls has offers from LSU, Mississippi State, Oklahoma, Stanford, Northwestern, East Carolina and Connecticut, and Texas A&M.

Sam Watkins, 6’1” 180 pounds defensive back from South Fort Myers High School in Fort Myers, Florida. One of the best defensive backs in state of Florida. Will be highly recruited by all the Florida schools and other major college programs. Holds Tennessee offer.

Wayne Lyons, 6’0” 190 pound safety from Dillard High School in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Lyons is included because he does have a UT offer. Getting him to Tennessee is a long shot but early he has expressed interest in UT.

Brian Randolph, 6' 1" 180 pound safety from Kell High School in Marietta, Georgia. Randolph has a Tennessee offer and is a prospect UT was in good shape with before the regime change back in January. Expect UT to be in the mix for Randolph before all is said and done. Randolph is an active defender (watch his film) and is also a very good running back.

Damian Swann, 6'0" 175 pound cornerback/safety from Grady High School in Atlanta, Georgia. Swann is another Georgia prospect who has fairly significant UT interest.

Justus Pickett is a 5' 11" 180 pound defensive back/athlete from Ardrey Kell High School in Charlotte, North Carolina. Pickett is fairly high on The UT board. Holds UT offer and has interest. Another North Carolina prospect expected to give UT a much closer look.

Brandon Ellerbe, 6'1 " 205 pound strong safety type from Wadesboro Anson. Ellerbe is an early commitment to Clemson. Likely position in college is a safety but a very good high school running back in addition to being a major college prospect at safety.

Pat Martin, 6'0" 205 pounds strong safety from JL Mann High School in Greeneville, South Carolina. Martin has already drawn interest from most all the Carolina schools. Georgia, Georgia Tech, and Tennessee are just a few of the other schools interested.

Malcolm Mitchell, a 6'1", 170 safety from Valdosta High School in Valdosta , Tennessee. Mitchell is a skinny, speedy safety prospect who needs a lot of strength and conditioning work. Already holding offers from Georgia, Clemson, Georgia Tech, South Carolina. Another one of top defensive backs in Georgia. Friend and former teammate of UT freshman to be Dontavious Sapp. Mitchell is one of many high level Division 1 prospects on the 2011 Valdosta team (more to follow).

Keenard Blackman, 6'4" 210 pound (athlete type) safety from Whitefield Academy, Mableton, Georgia. Blackman may be one of most sought after "athletes" in Georgia for 2011. Blackman has frame to move to linebacker even down lineman in college.



Linebackers

Always like to head these lists with in state prospects. The first prospect worthy of mention is Deon Meadows a 5' 11" 200 linebacker for New Smyrna High School in Smyrna, Tennessee. Meadows maybe the best football prospect in the state of Tennessee people don't know about now…. but will come next February. Meadows has all the physical tools. Has Tennessee interest.

Another in state linebacker to watch is Charles Harris a 6’2” 200 pound linebacker from Whitehaven High School. By the way, Whitehaven is loaded with Division 1 football talent. Harris has frame/size where some will project him to play a down lineman in college. Harris is a definite Division 1 prospect and will be highly recruited.


Out of state


C.J. Johnson, a 6'2", 225 pound middle linebacker from Philadelphia High School in Philadelphia, Mississippi. Johnson committed early to Miss State but we’ll see. One of best in the state of Mississippi for 2011 and a Rivals 250 type prospect. Johnson is planning to attend UT's Junior Day. Though early, that would be a big statement if Johnson makes it in .


One of most intriguing prospects on UT's board is James Wilder. Wilder is 6'3" 220 pounds from Plant High School in Tampa, Florida. Wilder may be the best 2011 football player in the state of Florida. Wilder is an elite prospect on offensive as a running back and on defensive as a linebacker and is a prospect being recruited by schools all over the country. Wilder has a Tennessee offer and in early interviews/articles has listed UT as a school of interest. Really don’t expect Wilder gets away from the Florida schools in the end; however, it is interesting his continued mentioning of Tennessee.

James Vaughters, 6’2” 225 pounds from Tucker High School in Tucker, Georgia. Vaughters along with a handful of other of the elite Georgia 2011 prospects are "statement" type recruits. Meaning recruits coveted by all the big time programs including UT and signing this caliber of prospect such as Vaughters makes a statement about your recruiting prowess and your program. Vaughters is an inside linebacker prospect who has all the physical tools to play early in college. Big kid. Great speed.

A.J. Johnson, 6’3” 230 pounds from Gainesville High School, Gainesville, Georgia. Johnson was committed to UT and during the coaching change decided to re-open his recruitment. Good news is Tennessee remains at or near the top of his list. Another prospect having all the skills and speed to play early at the college level.

Shannon Brown , 6' 2" 240 pound inside linebacker from Cook High School in Adel Georgia. Tennessee has offered and though its early Tennessee is in Brown's top three. Brown had a so-so junior season and ended up not finishing the year as part of the Cook High School team. Understand though all has been worked out. In addition to being a national recruit as a linebacker, Brown is a very good fullback and could end up on offense in college. Brown's skills are impressive.

Terrance Smith a 6'4"210 pounds outside linebacker from Southwest DeKalb High School. In a state full of good linebacker prospects, Smith is well one of the top linebacker/athlete types in the state. Tennessee and Alabama both like Smith. Smith will get both exposure and recognition as season goes along. Southwest DeKalb High will be one of best in state for 2010 season.

Lamar Dawson, 6’3” 220 pounds from Boyle County, Kentucky. As I mentioned in my last article, 2011 is an above average year for Division 1 football prospects in Kentucky. Dawson is one of those SEC caliber prospects. Already holds offers from Kentucky and Louisville. Tennessee is evaluating.


Curtis Grant, 6'3" 225 pound linebacker from Hermitage High School in Richmond, Virginia. Grant is a national recruit. Check his offer list. Impressive. As good a prospect looks to be, my opinion is there are other linebackers higher on the UT board than Grant at this time.


Kendall Walker, 6’1” 195 pounds from Moeller High School in Cincinnati, Ohio. Walker's father played at Maryland but the younger Walker looks to land at a higher profile program to play his college football. The Cincinnati area in general is an area you can expect this new UT staff to focus on. Walker is an ESPN 150 type player who is beginning to receive interest from SEC and ACC schools. Already has offers from a couple of Big Ten schools.


Brandon McGowan, 6’2” 220 pound outside linebacker from North Gwinnett High School in Suwanee, Georgia. McGowan was overshadowed a bit last year because two or three of his teammates were heavily recruited which took some attention away from what an excellent prospect McGowan is. He and teammate CJ Uzomah (quarterback/athlete/receiver) will be recruited by every SEC school. UT likes both of these prospects especially McGowan.. Can’t hurt that McGowan’s former teammate and friend is UT freshman JuWuan James.


Jermaine Holmes, 5"11 230 pounds an inside linebacker from Valdosta High School in Valdosta, Georgia. The only thing keeping Holmes from being one of the top linebackers in Georgia for 2011 is his height. Holmes is teammates with Jay Rome (tight end/defensive end) who will be one of most sought after prospects in the country in 2011 so Holmes will get plenty of looks. You can be assured, the good guys know about Holmes along with his teammate Jarquez Samuels ( a 6'5" 240 pound defensive end/off the edge pass rusher). Keep an eye on both. These kids are former teammates of Vol to be Dontavious Sapp.


Chris Landrum, 6’2” 200 pounds from Sweetwater High School in Sweetwater, Alabama. Landrum is one of top “athletes” in the state of Alabama for 2011. Landrum is an off the edge type who could end up at linebacker or as a pass rush defensive end. Landrum is a bit under the radar right now as a prospect. Right now, Landrum is a top 15 - top 20 2011 prospect. Landrum is likely to be recruited as a tight end/H-Back as well.


Ryan Shazier, 6'3" 210 pounds from Plantation High School in Plantation, Florida. Shazier has Tennessee offer and there is interest there. Shazier is being recruited as both a defensive end and an outside linebacker. This is one prospect from Florida UT could be a player for.


Ken Hankerson, 6’2” 200 pounds from Saint Thomas Aquinas High, Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Hankerson is an ESPN Top 150 talent and is likely to be one of the top 50 players in Florida when rankings are published. While I don't look for Tennessee to be very active in Florida in 2011, Hankerson is one prospect Tennessee may become involved with.


Zeek Bigger, 6’2” 205 pounds from Ashbrook High School in Gastonia, North Carolina. Bigger is a talent. Already shown up on ESPN 150 2011 Watch List and is showing up on many ACC and SEC recruiting boards. Has Tennessee interest. Hope he gets here for Junior Day.


Antonio Marsh, 6’2” 205 pounds from M.T. Blount High School in Pritchard, Alabama. Marsh is projected to be one of top players in Alabama when the 2010 rankings are published. Has only played linebacker for approximately half a season after spending first year and a half in high school playing as a down lineman. Alabama and Auburn will be tough to beat but UT has interest.


Other


A theme is emerging here. Georgia is loaded with Division 1 football prospects in 2011 and Tennessee knows it. Georgia's Football Program as well as its is Head Coach Mark Richt are under fire.
Georgia kids have shown they'll leave the state to play college football. Consider that in both 2009 and 2010 only 7 of the top 20 prospects in Georgia each year signed with Georgia or Georgia Tech. Also in Georgia, you know the enemy for the most part ...its Georgia. Georgia Tech provides little resistance (past two years signing only 2 total top 20 prospects). Other programs compete for players across the state but for the most part you have to beat Georgia.


In the states of Florida and North Carolina its different. In the state Florida, (2010) 13 of the top 20 prospects signed with in state schools. In the year 2009, 10 out of 20 signed with in state schools. North Carolina is much the same as Florida. For the recruiting class just signed 11 of the top 20 in state prospects signed with in state schools (in 2009, 15 out of 20 signed with the in state schools). In Florida, to get a prospect to leave the state UT is competing against 3 to 5 in state programs while in North Carolina you have two somewhat major programs and 3 others that are second tier schools. Rivals are the source of this information.


Don't put much stock in "commitments" this early in the recruiting calendar. With that said, while the following three prospects are "committed" to other schools, expect each to give UT more than a casual look. Jon Davis (6'3" 225 pound athlete from Eastern High School, Louisville, Kentucky) committed to Kentucky; Chris Sanders ( 6'1" 190 pound defensive back from Tucker high School in Tucker, Georgia) committed to Georgia; and, Marlin Lane (6'1" 200 pound running/defensive back from Mainland High School, in Daytona Beach, Florida) committed to Clemson....
Way too early to project any of these kids going anywhere. Will be interesting to see how it all pans out.



Who Am I? X Am I!
'X' Says:Part 2 of 3:

Linebackers

Always like to head these lists with in state prospects. The first prospect worthy of mention is Deon Meadows a 5' 11" 200 linebacker for New Smyrna High School in Smyrna, Tennessee. Meadows maybe the best football prospect in the state of Tennessee people don't know about now…. but will come next February. Meadows has all the physical tools. Has Tennessee interest.

Another in state linebacker to watch is Charles Harris a 6’2” 200 pound linebacker from Whitehaven High School. By the way, Whitehaven is loaded with Division 1 football talent. Harris has frame/size where some will project him to play a down lineman in college. Harris is a definite Division 1 prospect and will be highly recruited.


Out of state


C.J. Johnson, a 6'2", 225 pound middle linebacker from Philadelphia High School in Philadelphia, Mississippi. Johnson committed early to Miss State but we’ll see. One of best in the state of Mississippi for 2011 and a Rivals 250 type prospect. Johnson is planning to attend UT's Junior Day. Though early, that would be a big statement if Johnson makes it in .


One of most intriguing prospects on UT's board is James Wilder. Wilder is 6'3" 220 pounds from Plant High School in Tampa, Florida. Wilder may be the best 2011 football player in the state of Florida. Wilder is an elite prospect on offensive as a running back and on defensive as a linebacker and is a prospect being recruited by schools all over the country. Wilder has a Tennessee offer and in early interviews/articles has listed UT as a school of interest. Really don’t expect Wilder gets away from the Florida schools in the end; however, it is interesting his continued mentioning of Tennessee.

James Vaughters, 6’2” 225 pounds from Tucker High School in Tucker, Georgia. Vaughters along with a handful of other of the elite Georgia 2011 prospects are "statement" type recruits. Meaning recruits coveted by all the big time programs including UT and signing this caliber of prospect such as Vaughters makes a statement about your recruiting prowess and your program. Vaughters is an inside linebacker prospect who has all the physical tools to play early in college. Big kid. Great speed.

A.J. Johnson, 6’3” 230 pounds from Gainesville High School, Gainesville, Georgia. Johnson was committed to UT and during the coaching change decided to re-open his recruitment. Good news is Tennessee remains at or near the top of his list. Another prospect having all the skills and speed to play early at the college level.

Shannon Brown , 6' 2" 240 pound inside linebacker from Cook High School in Adel Georgia. Tennessee has offered and though its early Tennessee is in Brown's top three. Brown had a so-so junior season and ended up not finishing the year as part of the Cook High School team. Understand though all has been worked out. In addition to being a national recruit as a linebacker, Brown is a very good fullback and could end up on offense in college. Brown's skills are impressive.

Terrance Smith a 6'4"210 pounds outside linebacker from Southwest DeKalb High School. In a state full of good linebacker prospects, Smith is well one of the top linebacker/athlete types in the state. Tennessee and Alabama both like Smith. Smith will get both exposure and recognition as season goes along. Southwest DeKalb High will be one of best in state for 2010 season.

Lamar Dawson, 6’3” 220 pounds from Boyle County, Kentucky. As I mentioned in my last article, 2011 is an above average year for Division 1 football prospects in Kentucky. Dawson is one of those SEC caliber prospects. Already holds offers from Kentucky and Louisville. Tennessee is evaluating.


Curtis Grant, 6'3" 225 pound linebacker from Hermitage High School in Richmond, Virginia. Grant is a national recruit. Check his offer list. Impressive. As good a prospect looks to be, my opinion is there are other linebackers higher on the UT board than Grant at this time.


Kendall Walker, 6’1” 195 pounds from Moeller High School in Cincinnati, Ohio. Walker's father played at Maryland but the younger Walker looks to land at a higher profile program to play his college football. The Cincinnati area in general is an area you can expect this new UT staff to focus on. Walker is an ESPN 150 type player who is beginning to receive interest from SEC and ACC schools. Already has offers from a couple of Big Ten schools.


Brandon McGowan, 6’2” 220 pound outside linebacker from North Gwinnett High School in Suwanee, Georgia. McGowan was overshadowed a bit last year because two or three of his teammates were heavily recruited which took some attention away from what an excellent prospect McGowan is. He and teammate CJ Uzomah (quarterback/athlete/receiver) will be recruited by every SEC school. UT likes both of these prospects especially McGowan.. Can’t hurt that McGowan’s former teammate and friend is UT freshman JuWuan James.


Jermaine Holmes, 5"11 230 pounds an inside linebacker from Valdosta High School in Valdosta, Georgia. The only thing keeping Holmes from being one of the top linebackers in Georgia for 2011 is his height. Holmes is teammates with Jay Rome (tight end/defensive end) who will be one of most sought after prospects in the country in 2011 so Holmes will get plenty of looks. You can be assured, the good guys know about Holmes along with his teammate Jarquez Samuels ( a 6'5" 240 pound defensive end/off the edge pass rusher). Keep an eye on both. These kids are former teammates of Vol to be Dontavious Sapp.


Chris Landrum, 6’2” 200 pounds from Sweetwater High School in Sweetwater, Alabama. Landrum is one of top “athletes” in the state of Alabama for 2011. Landrum is an off the edge type who could end up at linebacker or as a pass rush defensive end. Landrum is a bit under the radar right now as a prospect. Right now, Landrum is a top 15 - top 20 2011 prospect. Landrum is likely to be recruited as a tight end/H-Back as well.


Ryan Shazier, 6'3" 210 pounds from Plantation High School in Plantation, Florida. Shazier has Tennessee offer and there is interest there. Shazier is being recruited as both a defensive end and an outside linebacker. This is one prospect from Florida UT could be a player for.

Ken Hankerson, 6’2” 200 pounds from Saint Thomas Aquinas High, Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Hankerson is an ESPN Top 150 talent and is likely to be one of the top 50 players in Florida when rankings are published. While I don't look for Tennessee to be very active in Florida in 2011, Hankerson is one prospect Tennessee may become involved with.

Zeek Bigger, 6’2” 205 pounds from Ashbrook High School in Gastonia, North Carolina. Bigger is a talent. Already shown up on ESPN 150 2011 Watch List and is showing up on many ACC and SEC recruiting boards. Has Tennessee interest. Hope he gets here for Junior Day.


Antonio Marsh, 6’2” 205 pounds from M.T. Blount High School in Pritchard, Alabama. Marsh is projected to be one of top players in Alabama when the 2010 rankings are published. Has only played linebacker for approximately half a season after spending first year and a half in high school playing as a down lineman. Alabama and Auburn will be tough to beat but UT has interest.

Come on back tomorrow and we'll give you the complete report along with my state analysis...

Peace

'X'
'X' Says:'X' says you will see a couple of these guys sign next year with UT. See if he's right!

2011.... First Look Ahead.... Defensive Backs and Linebackers


Four quick things. Under defensive backs I have included cornerbacks, safeties, and "athletes"; a few of the outside linebacker names listed "project" as defensive ends in college; this is an early list fluid and sure to change; and, Georgia is just loaded with Division 1 prospects.


Defensive Backs

In-state to start. Tennessee could meet a big part of its 2011 defensive backs needs with in state prospects. Cornerback/"athlete" Jabriel Washington (5' 11" 170 pounds) from Trinity Christian Academy maybe be the # 1 prospect in the state for 2011. Washington is a talent and, though the level of competition he plays against is questionable, he is being recruited by most of the SEC power programs. Washington has a Tennessee offer and is a top 2011 priority. Look for Washington to attend UT's upcoming junior day at the end of February.

Lonnie Ballentine is a 6'3" 190 pound safety prospect from Southwind High School in Memphis. Ballentine plays safety in high school and may move to outside linebacker type in college. Ballentine holds a UT offer and is too a priority. Ballentine has interest from LSU, Alabama and other major college programs. Ballentine projects to as a January 2011 enrollee.

Another in state defensive back that is beginning to garner attention from a number of colleges is Tino Thomas. Thomas, a 6'0" 190 pound "athlete" attending Melrose High School in Memphis, Tennessee. Thomas is a top 10 - top 15 type prospect in the state for 2011. With spring evaluations, summer camps, and a full senior season ahead, my guess Thomas will shoot up many a 2011 recruiting boards.

There is one more in state defensive back/athlete prospect sure to fly under the radar but is worth paying attention to. Derek King a 5’10” 180 pound defensive back/athlete from Brentwood Academy. King is sure to draw more interest as the season nears. He may be one of the best “athletes” playing football in the state as King is a very accomplished track star. Auburn has already shown interest.

OUT OF STATE


Hakeem Flowers, is a 6'3" 180 pound 'athlete" from Greenville, South Carolina. Flowers has one of the most impressive offer lists of any prospect Tennessee is recruiting. Flowers has a committable Tennessee offer and our new staff has significant interest in Flowers. Expect Flowers to give Tennessee a closer look between now and next February.

Jaquese Kirk, is a 5'11" 180 pounds defensive back Walker High School, in Jasper, Alabama. Kirk may be one of the top defensive back in the state of Alabama for 2011. Alabama loaded up on defensive backs in 2010 and the number of defensive backs they take in 2011 will be limited. Nonetheless, Bama and Auburn for that matter will still get their fair share. However, their backlogs at defensive back may open a door with Kirk for Tennessee.

Dominque Terrell, 5’ 11” 180 pound defensive back/athlete from Osbourne Park High School in Manassas, Virginia. Though many states are only beginning to publish preliminary 2011 “watch lists”, Terrell may well end up being the top-ranked prospect in Virginia . Whether as a quarterback, running back, kick returner or as a defensive back, Terrell has caught the eye of major college programs all up and down the eastern seaboard. Tennessee has interest. Appears Penn State is an early leader.

Tyler Hunter, 6’0” 190 pounds from Lowndes, Valdosta, Georgia. Hunter who holds a UT offer is already receiving interest from most every SEC school. Another Division 1 defensive back produced by the state of Georgia.

Clifton Richardson 6’1” 200 pounds from Menchville High School, Newport News, Virginia. In college, Richardson likely winds up at strong safety or linebacker. Previous UT staff offered Richardson and Richardson was high on their board. New staff has interest as well.

TJ Thorpe, 5’11” 175 pound defensive back/athlete type from Jordan High School, Charlotte North Carolina. Thorpe who runs a 4.4 forty is one of those prospects who is just beginning to have college recruiters show up on his doorstep. Garnering interest from ACC and a few SEC schools including Tennessee.

Zeph Grimes, 6’0” 200 pound strong safety prospect from Eberhardt High School in Bamberg, South Carolina. Tennessee is interested as are many SEC schools. Some already are saying the battle for Grimes is shaping up as a South Carolina/Clemson match. Interesting to see if Grimes shows up for Junior Day.

TK Fleming, 6’3” 200 pounds defensive back from Benton High School in Benton, Louisiana. Fleming has relationship with Coach Dooley and Coach Joseph from their Louisiana Tech days. Already holds approximately 10 offers including one from UT. LSU has not offered and will be tough to beat if they do.

Bruce Dukes, 5’10” 170 pound cornerback from Sandy Creek High School in Tyrone, Georgia. Another SEC-caliber defensive back prospect from one of better high school programs in Georgia. Dukes already holds an offer from Mississippi State and is receiving interest from Auburn and Tennessee.


Avery Walls, 5'11" 184 pounds defensive back from Union Grove High School in McDonough, Georgia. The thing to remember with all these Georgia defensive backs is Georgia signed four defensive backs in its 2010 signing class and already has two defensive back/athletes committed for its 2011 class. Walls is a highly regarded prospect that I don't see Georgia having room for. Walls has offers from LSU, Mississippi State, Oklahoma, Stanford, Northwestern, East Carolina and Connecticut, and Texas A&M.



Sam Watkins, 6’1” 180 pounds defensive back from South Fort Myers High School in Fort Myers, Florida. One of the best defensive backs in state of Florida. Will be highly recruited by all the Florida schools and other major college programs. Holds Tennessee offer.

Wayne Lyons, 6’0” 190 pound safety from Dillard High School in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Lyons is included because he does have a UT offer. Getting him to Tennessee is a long shot but early he has expressed interest in UT.

Brian Randolph, 6' 1" 180 pound safety from Kell High School in Marietta, Georgia. Randolph has a Tennessee offer and is a prospect UT was in good shape with before the regime change back in January. Expect UT to be in the mix for Randolph before all is said and done. Randolph is an active defender (watch his film) and is also a very good running back.

Damian Swann, 6'0" 175 pound cornerback/safety from Grady High School in Atlanta, Georgia. Swann is another Georgia prospect who has fairly significant UT interest.

Justus Pickett is a 5' 11" 180 pound defensive back/athlete from Ardrey Kell High School in Charlotte, North Carolina. Pickett is fairly high on The UT board. Holds UT offer and has interest. Another North Carolina prospect expected to give UT a much closer look.

Brandon Ellerbe, 6'1 " 205 pound strong safety type from Wadesboro Anson. Ellerbe is an early commitment to Clemson. Likely position in college is a safety but a very good high school running back in addition to being a major college prospect at safety.

Pat Martin, 6'0" 205 pounds strong safety from JL Mann High School in Greeneville, South Carolina. Martin has already drawn interest from most all the Carolina schools. Georgia, Georgia Tech, and Tennessee are just a few of the other schools interested.

Malcolm Mitchell, a 6'1", 170 safety from Valdosta High School in Valdosta , Tennessee. Mitchell is a skinny, speedy safety prospect who needs a lot of strength and conditioning work. Already holding offers from Georgia, Clemson, Georgia Tech, South Carolina. Another one of top defensive backs in Georgia. Friend and former teammate of UT freshman to be Dontavious Sapp. Mitchell is one of many high level Division 1 prospects on the 2011 Valdosta team (more to follow).



Keenard Blackman, 6'4" 210 pound (athlete type) safety from Whitefield Academy, Mableton, Georgia. Blackman may be one of most sought after "athletes" in Georgia for 2011. Blackman has frame to move to linebacker even down lineman in college.

Tomorrow...We look at Linebackers...I'll have about 30 or so players the UT is evaluating...Hope you found this helpful and interesting...

'X'
'X' Says:RECRUITING 2011....A Look Ahead ... Offensive and Defensive Line Targets

With the 2010 signing class tucked away and as everyone looks eagerly forward to spring practice, let’s take an early look at a few offensive and defensive line targets on UT's 2011 radar. A few thoughts first.

It’s no secret UT would have liked to signed at least one more offensive lineman and one to two more defensive lineman in the 2010 signing class.. provided a) the prospect(s) could get in school and of course b) the prospect(s) could play. As Tennessee continues to look around for 2010 prospects and, while nothing surprises me, I doubt UT signs anymore prospects for its 2010 class. Maybe a preferred walk-on or two.

Now onto 2011, for you star grazers and people who are into team rankings and so forth, you may be disappointed with the 2011 class. The 2011 signing class may not be a top five type of class maybe not even top 10. The reason simply is the 2011 signing will be heavily populated with offensive and defensive lineman which meet critical needs though positions that are not traditionally rated as highly by the services. You should expect UT to sign a quarterback, a receiver or so but those aren’t priorities. Lineman on both side of the ball are.

Upon first glance for 2011, the states of Florida and Georgia are again loaded with high level Division 1 football talent. Also, it is an above average year for high level Division 1 football talent in South Carolina and it’s a good year in North Carolina. Interesting that there are an above average number of good prospects in Kentucky for 2011. In-state (Tennessee) talent is the best it has been in years especially the quality and quantity of football prospects at many positions including lineman. In the state, there are already a number of prospects receiving SEC and national recruiting attention. I’m partial to in state prospects and therefore I have listed a few worth keeping an eye on throughout the recruiting process.


Remember it’s early. This is a first pass in developing a pool of prospects that have interest in UT and UT likewise has interest in. Most of these prospects listed will be or are already being recruited by colleges in the major conferences including Tennessee. However, as recruiting moves toward the spring with Junior days, spring evaluations, and academic standing of prospects becomes clearer, this list will evolve.

What I’m saying is be prepared for change. Names will go off the board, new names will emerge, and of course UT will be involved with many of the prospects and more until next February.

UT is already a little behind in 2011 recruiting...largely because the new staff has adopted more of a regional approach to recruiting going forward as opposed to the last staff. Too, this staff appears to be taking a longer look at more in state prospects than the former regime.

As I mentioned above, Georgia again is loaded with football prospects. UT has made Georgia a battleground state. Top prospects in the state of Georgia do leave the state to play college football. Georgia is vulnerable. Georgia Tech has proved to be little resistance in recruiting. Look for UT to be active within the state of Georgia.
Should first mention UT already has one commitment for its 2011 class and that is Eric MacLain a 6’5”265 pound tight end/offensive lineman type from Fayetteville Britt High School, North Carolina. For the star grazers, MacLain is projected to be a solid four star type prospect when 2011 rankings come out. More importantly, he has remained a firm commitment to UT through two coaching staff changes and wants to be a Volunteer.

Let’s get going with a look first at OFFENSIVE LINE prospects and there is no better place to begin than in the state of Tennessee.

Though it’s early, there are a handful of in state offensive line prospects that will garner interest from major college football programs.

The prospect at the top of everyone’s list will be Antonio Richardson a 6'6", 310 pound offensive and defensive lineman from Ensworth High School in the Nashville area. Either Richardson or Jabriel Washington an athlete from Trinity High School will be ranked as the Number 1 prospect in the state for 2011. Both can play and both have received national recruiting interest.

Kyler Kerbyson a 6’5”, 290 pound offensive lineman from Knoxville Catholic. Kerbyson is also already receiving interest from SEC and ACC schools. Kerbyson plans to camp at UT this summer. It is early but Tennessee should be right in there. Knoxville Catholic has another lineman (Zac Cooper) that will be recruited heavily as well.
Hunter Long, 6'4", 285 pound interior lineman from Briarcrest Christian. Long is another in state offensive lineman who will receive consideration from SEC schools. Note Hunter Long is the brother of Austin Long who signed with Georgia a couple of years ago. Many believe he will follow his brother’s footsteps to Georgia.
There are a couple of other offensive line prospects in the mid-state area worth keeping an eye on. Honestly, I don’t know at what level either will be recruited but these kids are already receiving SEC/ACC interest. They are Brandon Miller a 6'5", 275 pound, offensive lineman from Tullahoma; Lucas Patrick 6'3", 280 pound offensive lineman from Brentwood High; and, Chris Turrentine
a 6’4” 310 pound offensive/defensive lineman from Smyrna High School, Smyrna, Tennessee. By the way, Smyrna High School has two or three other prospects that will be highly recruited in 2011. More to follow on those kids in later updates.

In Upper East Tennessee, one of the better offensive line prospects is Mac Crowder a 6’4” 270 pound interior offensive/defensive lineman from Tennessee High in Bristol. Virginia Tech will be hard to beat here but Crowder is drawing interest from a number of SEC and ACC schools.


Here are other out of state offensive line prospects to watch with Tennessee.

Brandon Shell, 6’7” 310 pounds from Goose Creek, South Carolina. Shell, the nephew Art Shell, maybe be ranked as the Number 1 offensive line prospect in the state of South Carolina for 2011. Huge kid with great feet which translates into an SEC offensive tackle. Shell already has offers from Clemson and South Carolina, along with SEC powers Florida, Georgia and Louisiana State. Tennessee hasn’t offered but is evaluating.

Tyler Moore, 6’6” 290 pounds from Countryside High School, Clearwater (FL). Committed to Nebraska but that won’t keep teams like Tennessee away.

Kyle Harris a 6’4” 255 pound offensive lineman from Pepperell High School in Lindale, Georgia. Has Tennessee interest but does not have a Tennessee offer yet.
Zach West, 6’5” 300 pounds from LCA, Lexington, Kentucky. One of top offensive line prospects in the state of Kentucky for 2011. Could play either guard or tackle has the size to play Guard or Tackle. SEC caliber offensive line prospect.

Darrien Miller, 6’6” 290 pounds, Bryan Station High School. Miller is committed to Kentucky but that won’t stop him from being heavily recruited by most every SEC program.
Dillon Cornet, 6’8 300 pounds from Perry County Central High School. He’s a little raw, and his level of competition is not where you’d like it to be, but Cornett is huge and could play offense or defense.

Alan Posey 6’5 310 pound offensive lineman from Clark Central High School, Georgia. Posey attends the same high school as Coaches Dooley and Smith. Projects as interior lineman in college. Has Georgia Tech offer and has interest from other schools including Georgia and Tennessee.

Tarik Cook, 6’1” 280 pounds for Stephenson High School, Stone Mountain, Georgia. A prospect from one of best high school programs in the state of Georgia. Last season 29 of the 32 seniors on the football team received scholarship offers. Has Tennessee interest.

Watts Dantzler, 6’7” 310 pounds from Dalton High School, Dalton, Georgia. Personally, I think he is playing the recruiting game right now. I would be shocked if Dantzler ends up anywhere but Georgia.

Marcus Jackson, 6”3”280 pound offensive lineman from Vero Beach High School, Vero Beach, Florida. “Soft” commitment to Miami… whatever that means. One of top offensive line prospects in a state loaded with them for 2011.

Errin Joe, 6’4” 285 offensive lineman from Union County High School, Lake Butler, Florida. Joe is not the only prospect from Lake Butler UT has interest in for 2011.

Trip Thurman, 6’5” 290 Dover High School, Dover Delaware. Why include an offensive lineman from Delaware in the review? His parents have Tennessee (specifically Knoxville ties) and the kid has Tennessee interest.

Mike Romano, 6’3” 275 pound offensive guard from Treasure Coast High School in Port St. Lucie Florida

Expect UT to try and make additional inroads into Virginia in 2011. With that said, watch UT and offensive tackle prospect Grant Jones from Liberty Christian Academy in Lynchburg Virginia. Jones stands 6’5 298 pounds and is what you look for in a tackle good size, agile for a big kid who is still growing with long arms.
Interior Defensive lineman.

Again, I always like to start with in state prospects and there are a handful of defensive linemen worth keeping an eye on.

The first is Christian Coleman, a 6’4” 250 pound defensive lineman/tight end from Milan High School, Milan, Tennessee. The former staff paid little attention to Coleman and very few in state kids for that matter. UT has catching up to do here.

Most who follow recruiting are familiar with the name of Terry Redden. Redden is a 6’1” 280 pound defensive tackle prospect from Whitehaven High School and is one of the better best defensive line prospects (other than Antonio Richardson) in the state for 2011. However, Redden has a couple of teammates who are also defensive lineman that will be heavily recruited as well. They are Trovante Thompson, (6'1"ish 280 pounds) and Marvin Barton (6’3” 290 pounds). The SEC west schools are ahead of UT in the recruitment of these prospects.

Here are a few defensive tackle prospects worth keeping watching.

Chris Mayes. 6’5” 290 pounds from Griffin, Georgia. Mayes may be one to keep an eye on with UT. UT has a history of getting good football players from Griffin. Mayes, who likes Tennessee, will only be entering his second season of organized football and is already emerging as a top prospect in the state of Georgia.

Joey Grant, 6’4” 265 pound defensive tackle/defensive lineman from Lake Brantley High School. I don’t have much information on a number of these kids … its early. Can tell you though this is one UT likes an awful lot……
Phillip Dukes, 6’3” 280 pound defensive tackle Manning, South Carolina. Tennessee is involved here but so are many other schools like Alabama, South Carolina, LSU, and others.

Isiah Norton, 6’5”290 pound defensive tackle from Kimball High School, Dallas Texas. Already has an offer from Tennessee and has Tennessee interest.

Jamon Brown 6’3 290 pound defensive tackle , Already committed to Louisville. Will be one of nation’s best and most hotly recruited defensive line prospects.

Corey Rodgers, 6’6” 245 pound defensive lineman from Clarke County High School, Kentucky. Prospect that could play strong-side end or play defensive tackle. DT. As you can see, very good year for prospects in the state of Kentucky.

Gabriel Wright, 6’1” 260 pounds from Carver High School, Columbus, Georgia. One of best in state of Georgia for 2011. Has Tennessee interest. Alabama involved here too.

De Shaun Williams, 6’1” 290 pounds from DW Daniel High School, Central, South Carolina. Sure to be highly recruited by most programs in the southeast. ESPN 150 level player.

Jonathan Battle 6'1 275 pounds from Sumter County Comprehensive High School, Americus, (Georgia). Battle may fly a bit under the radar being that he missed most of junior year because of knee injury. Has Tennessee interest.

Tim Jernigan 6'2 270 Columbia (FL) . Runs a 4.6 40, and will be among the nation’s best next season. Jernigan says he has more than 30 scholarship offers with Florida leading.
Lonnie Gosha, 6’3” 260 pound defensive tackle from Union County High School, Lake Butler, Florida. One of the best in the state for 2011. The Florida schools will be tough to beat.

Demetrae Griffin, 6’2” 280 pounds. Speake High School, Danville, Alabama. Don’t know if any recall the kid from Alabama who got shot in his hometown right around Tennessee junior day last season. Well, Griffin is the kid. Still recovering though from the accident but had a very good junior season. Ranked as one of top players in Alabama and one UT may have a shot with. Can play offensive line as well.


Defensive Ends
Good news is that UT is already positioning itself with a number of the elite defensive end prospects in the Southeast. Bad news is UT’s new staff has a ton of ground to make up with most of these prospects.

A the top of the list will be is Jeff Pagan, 6’4” 250 pounds from Asheville, North Carolina. One of top prospects at any position in the Southeast. UT will have a ton of ground to make up on the likes of Florida and Georgia.
Another one that will be a headliner is Jadevon Clowney, 6’5” 235 pound defensive end from South Pointe High School in Rock Hill, South Carolina. Tennessee has had success in Rock Hill. Will probably play at 260 -270 pounds in college and will be one of the most sought after recruits in the country.

Stephon Tuitt, 6’5” 260 pounds from Monroe County, Georgia. Will be one of the most highly recruited prospects in Georgia for 2011. Could play offensive tackle but most seem to think he is best suited as a strongside defensive end. UT recruiting as defensive end.

Ray Drew, 6’5” 230 pounds from Thomas County Central High School, Thomasville, Georgia. Drew is one of top players in Southeast and maybe top prospect in Georgia for 2011. Tennessee is in there along with everyone else. The positive for UT is an of course it’s early but Drew consistently has mentioned interest in Tennessee.

Ira McCune, 6’2” 245 pounds from Hillgrove High School, Powder Springs Georgia. Anyone seeing a theme here that the state of Georgia is loaded with defensive line prospects. Another defensive line prospect that will be highly sought after.

Jay Rome, 6’5” 230 pounds from Valdosta High School, Valdosta, Georgia. Along with Drew, Rome maybe the top prospect in Georgia for 2011. Rome could conceivably be the Number #1 rated athlete (tight end/defensive end in the country for 2011). Rome is interested in Tennessee. Clemson is thought to be a leader at this early stage. Doesn’t hurt that one of Rome’s best friends Dontavious Sapp will be wearing Orange Next season.

Stephone Anthony, 6’3” 220 pounds from Anson High School Wadesboro , North Carolina. Runs a 4.65 time in the 40: A top-100 player on all the recruiting service lists, Anthony is fast and strong and hard to block. Already has a number of offers from as far away as UCLA.

Norkeithus Otis, 6’3” 210 pounds LB/DE from Ashbrook High School in Gastonia North Carolina. Athletic prospect with speed and pursuit ability who is drawing more interest every day. Already holds offers from South Carolina, Florida and Maryland. Has Tennessee interest.
Curt Maggett, 6’4 215 pounds from Dwyer High School in Palm Beach Gardens in Florida. Arguably the top pass rush prospect in the state of Florida in an area that is predominantly Florida/FSU.

Sterling Bailey, 6’5” 240 pounds from East Hall High School, Gainesville, Georgia. This is another Georgia kid that is already proclaiming Tennessee to be in the top three schools he is interested in.

Giorgio Newberry, 6’5” 250 pounds from Fort Pierce Central High School, Fort Pierce, Florida. Newberry is already listed as a 2011 ESPN 150 talent. I would expect after camps, evaluations and so forth for his stock to continue to rise. Newberry will be courted by all the Florida schools. Newberry has Tennessee interest.

Josh Tann, 6’4” 220 pounds Panther Creek High School, Cary, North Carolina. Tann is a bit of a sleeper. He is one I have seen play in person.. Talented kid with tons of athleticism. After another year of strength/conditioning work and maturation, I would expect Tann to be one of top recruits in North Carolina for 2011.
First pass at prospects at the other positions of need will follow in the coming weeks.

Check Back and tell a friend.

'x'
'X' Says:I know we all loathe Lane Kiffin but the Tennessee faithful need to give Kiffin and Coach O their due. In my opinion, Kiffin and Orgeron got in the head of Coach Richt and it effected their recruiting .... in my opinion. '

After UT wax'd Georgia back in October, UT began a relentless assault on most every prospect committed to Georgia. With Georgia's defensive coordinator and most of the defensive his staff under fire, I think Mark Richt was became consumed with trying to stay a step ahead of UT 's pursuit of their prized commitments namely Nikell Robey, TJ Stripling, Jalen Fields, Da-Rick Rogers, and Alec Ogletree.

In my opinion , UT forced Georgia into a couple of really questionable decisions. First, UT went as hard after Georgia commit defensive back Alec Ogletree and any of the Georgia commitments outside of Rogers of course. If Kiffin and Orgeron gletree were still at UT, Ogletree would at a minimum have visited UT and maybe signed here who knows. How did Richt counter UT's recruitment of Ogletree, he offered Alec Ogletree's brother, Zander, a scholarship . Zander Ogletree is a fairly good running back but he is not an SEC running back at 5'9 210 lbs. Seems clear to me Richt burned one scholarship to save another.

Also, after taking two very good quarterbacks in their 2009 signing class Georgia felt compelled to take a quarterback in this class. a Once Georgia received a commitment from in state quarterback Hutson Mason.... Kiffin and Oregeron really turned up the heat on Nash Nance and Da-Rick Rogers.. Knowing that Richt, given his quarterback depth chart, really could not afford to burn another scholarship on Nance to try and keep Rogers firmly committed to Georgia.

I don't think Rogers or Nance wind up at UT if Kiffin were still the Head Coach; however, Kiffin and Orgeron laid the groundwork for Chaney , Baggett and Dooley to make their pitch.

At one time Georgia was putting together a top five recruiting class nationally but the wheels started falling off about mid-October . I credit part of that to the former UT regime. I think for 3 months Mark Richt was so pre-occupied with trying to hold off UT's pursuit of his commitments (remember UT beat them for Juwuan James as well during that time) that he may have taken his eye off the target to some extent

One more thing, for all the ‘ X’ haters especially those who contend I gets his stuff off message boards.... First, gimme a break and second please refer to the ‘X’ post of October 21, 2009 under the subject of wide receivers......Hmm a post about UT and Da-Rick Rogers . I was given indication as far back as mid-October that regardless of what was said in the media before all was said and done UT would be a major player for Da-Rick Rogers.

How'd that work out?

Don't sweat Glen Stanley going to USC. He would have never had academics in order to get into an SEC school.

Happy Signing Day

‘x’

XPS: 'Checked with two different people I respect who are in the know in Nashville this morning.... both still seem to think Stone to Tennessee. Everybody around him including the UT staff seems to think that!


Saw where Robey is headed to USC... he too doesnt have the academics in order or would have a bit of a tough time getting them on order to get into an SEC school as I undertsand it.'

'x'