2019 Recruiting Thread
- Thread starter Bwilk55
- Start date
Apparently not. Looks like he's being slowplayed now. Which one could take as good news with numbers tightening. Maybe some big fish on the hook.
IT:
STATE OF RECRUITING
With the first National Signing Day for 2019 just over a month away, Texas still has some rather large holes to fill.
Linebacker, defensive line, and offensive line come to mind. Maybe another running back. Let's take a look at the remaining top targets on UT's big board.
WR Bru McCoy, Mater Dei (CA) -- Good news, bad news. Five-star athlete Bru McCoy is a Texas kid in the same sense that Tyler Johnson is. The bad news is he lives in Los Angeles.
When I say he's a Texas kid, I mean the school appeals to his personality in all the important ways. He fits in culturally and academically, and understands the long-term benefits of the Texas network and all it has to offer. The problem is, the family understands USC is the Texas version of that in California, including the network.
I've messaged and talked to many people in the last day and to a man they all believe Texas leads at this point. USC has significant issues to address that probably aren't wise to air, but will also be difficult to overcome.
McCoy still has his official visit to USC to take on December 1st. That's a concern of course. We can't lose sight of reality: this is a Southern Californian five-star at a USC pipeline school. But they're the underdog as of right now. I feel incredibly confident writing that.
I haven't heard that an unofficial visit return to Texas if off the table. It could come down to having enough time, though.
In the meantime, it wouldn't hurt for Texas to get back to winning and finishing the season strong.
If this came down to in-home visits, I think Texas would happily take that. Even with the proximity advantage I don't think USC has struck up the relationship the Texas staff has.
I have him at 60% to sign with Texas. If he were choosing today, I'd have it significantly higher.
RB Noah Cain, IMG Academy (Bradenton, FL) -- UT's top two remaining prospects that carry the rock - Noah Cain and Trey Sanders - both come from the same private school. Funny how that happens. Texas has done remarkably well in this recruitment, mainly because of running back coach Stan Drayton. He can get the attention of any tailback in the nation with his personality, demeanor, and resume. As a sophomore at Denton Guyer, Cain burst on the scene like he does through inside zone; quickly. The usual suspects came through, but LSU, Georgia, Ohio State, and Texas slowly separated themselves. At this stage, the Horns have positioned themselves to land one of Cain or Sanders. Of the two, Texas has the best shot with Cain. Georgia looks less likely. So does Ohio State. It's a numbers thing at LSU, even though they still might make room.
His official visit last weekend in Austin couldn't have gone better. As importantly as winning over Cain is the staff has made significant in-roads with his mother.
This recruitment is back on the trend-line it was in the spring.
RB Trey Sanders, IMG Academy (Bradenton, FL) -- The other running back at IMG, Texas began the relationship with Sanders at the Red River Shootout in 2017, where the five-star actually met his girlfriend. Then he trekked to Austin last summer for a weekend with Jordan Whittington. Fast forward to September when USC arrived. He was in attendance for the Longhorns win, along with fellow stud Bru McCoy. This will likely come down to if he wants or doesn't want to play at Alabama (Florida has renewed its push as of late). But his relationship with Drayton and fellow Texas commits have led us to believe the Horns have a good shot. We've also heard some happy hour type stuff that would offer hope. The more likely outcome is Texas lands Cain, though.
WR Kennedy Lewis, Melissa (TX) -- The 6-foot-3, 190-pound pass-catcher and former TCU pledge was set to announce his commitment today. That was put on pause. With wide receiver numbers in Austin filling up, we believe the Horns are being judicious with its last few spots. Lewis loves the Longhorns, and might still make it in this class, but with others looking good (Bru McCoy) and the numbers already thin for 2020 (looks to be around 18 right now), the #SaveTheShip mantra might be the route here. Said one collegiate source on Lewis' ability, "If we hadn't seen him in person numerous times this summer we wouldn't have been as high on him -- his film this year isn't overwhelming." That sort of sums up the sentiments of many. The upside is noticeable but numbers being tight is a wrench.
OT Isaiah Hookfin, Sugarland Dulles (TX) -- We were able to take a look at the 6-foot-5, 265-pounder in Sugar Land on Thursday night. We see what Texas sees - untapped potential, great feet and balance, and really solid technique in pass protection. Not much punch and could play angrier in the run game. He's a late bloomer that would tuck neatly into this class. More schools are catching on as well - Auburn, Mississippi State, and Arizona State want him now too. He took an unofficial visit last weekend to Austin, bonded Wild Hogs-style with Tyler Johnson, and will likely take an official to the 40 Acres in December. I like where this is trending.
OL Myron Cunningham, Iowa Central CC (IA) -- His recruitment and Hookfin's could be tied together. Both are tackles who offer athleticism, they're just on different plots of the eligibility spectrum. Cunningham, like Hookfin, will likely visit in December. Taking both isn't out of the question but Texas may defer to the grad transfer market if it doesn't go with a Juco option.
OL Andrew Coker, Katy Taylor (TX) (TCU) -- This one continues to be somewhat of a mystery. While we feel he's a guard at the next level, Coker has done well to begin transforming his body. His game has improved as well, but again, we feel like he's a guard due to lack of foot quickness. The key here is how much mutual interest there is. The offer was big for him, and Herb Hand loves his potential. We have him as one to watch because we know they'd like one more interior lineman if they find one good enough.
LB Caleb Johnson, Fullerton College (CA) -- If Oregon hadn't offered, there would be little intrigue where he'd be signing. But they did and he's visiting Eugene next weekend. Still, there's some confidence here with Texas thanks to the staff prioritizing him. He's made it clear he loves the Horns and the opportunity for immediate playing time. The fact UT isn't openly pursuing another inside linebacker is a notable data point on their confidence level. The staff will know its fate in the next few weeks so there would still be time to throw a Hail Mary at the position.
DE Myron Warren, Many (LA) -- Another former TCU commit, Warren and Texas started out with a conversation between Myron and coach Oscar Giles, then bloomed into an offer, and now he'll visit Austin next weekend vs Iowa State. Don't get it twisted; if LSU offers, he'll be a Tiger. But after his visit to Baton Rouge last weekend, he left without an offer or even the discussion of one. So far, so good for Texas. With Sweat and Mpagi as the only defensive line takes so far in 2019, Warren is a priority. With Orgeron's numbers tighter than his belt, this could be the third talented defensive linemen Texas lands from Louisiana thanks to lack of in-state push.
DB Jalen Catalon, Mansfield Legacy (TX): The multi-sport star is heavy on Arkansas, light on Texas...today. But he’ll be back for an OV in December and we’ll see how Naivar/Texas combat the Hogs’ negative ways. This isn’t over, it’s just not trending well...today. Catalon could see the light.
Similar to last cycle, there could and most likely will be a few new names popping up. Herman always has contingencies. We'll have notes and quotes from some of these remaining targets in the next Scoop. Stay tuned.
STATE OF RECRUITING
With the first National Signing Day for 2019 just over a month away, Texas still has some rather large holes to fill.
Linebacker, defensive line, and offensive line come to mind. Maybe another running back. Let's take a look at the remaining top targets on UT's big board.
WR Bru McCoy, Mater Dei (CA) -- Good news, bad news. Five-star athlete Bru McCoy is a Texas kid in the same sense that Tyler Johnson is. The bad news is he lives in Los Angeles.
When I say he's a Texas kid, I mean the school appeals to his personality in all the important ways. He fits in culturally and academically, and understands the long-term benefits of the Texas network and all it has to offer. The problem is, the family understands USC is the Texas version of that in California, including the network.
I've messaged and talked to many people in the last day and to a man they all believe Texas leads at this point. USC has significant issues to address that probably aren't wise to air, but will also be difficult to overcome.
McCoy still has his official visit to USC to take on December 1st. That's a concern of course. We can't lose sight of reality: this is a Southern Californian five-star at a USC pipeline school. But they're the underdog as of right now. I feel incredibly confident writing that.
I haven't heard that an unofficial visit return to Texas if off the table. It could come down to having enough time, though.
In the meantime, it wouldn't hurt for Texas to get back to winning and finishing the season strong.
If this came down to in-home visits, I think Texas would happily take that. Even with the proximity advantage I don't think USC has struck up the relationship the Texas staff has.
I have him at 60% to sign with Texas. If he were choosing today, I'd have it significantly higher.
RB Noah Cain, IMG Academy (Bradenton, FL) -- UT's top two remaining prospects that carry the rock - Noah Cain and Trey Sanders - both come from the same private school. Funny how that happens. Texas has done remarkably well in this recruitment, mainly because of running back coach Stan Drayton. He can get the attention of any tailback in the nation with his personality, demeanor, and resume. As a sophomore at Denton Guyer, Cain burst on the scene like he does through inside zone; quickly. The usual suspects came through, but LSU, Georgia, Ohio State, and Texas slowly separated themselves. At this stage, the Horns have positioned themselves to land one of Cain or Sanders. Of the two, Texas has the best shot with Cain. Georgia looks less likely. So does Ohio State. It's a numbers thing at LSU, even though they still might make room.
His official visit last weekend in Austin couldn't have gone better. As importantly as winning over Cain is the staff has made significant in-roads with his mother.
This recruitment is back on the trend-line it was in the spring.
RB Trey Sanders, IMG Academy (Bradenton, FL) -- The other running back at IMG, Texas began the relationship with Sanders at the Red River Shootout in 2017, where the five-star actually met his girlfriend. Then he trekked to Austin last summer for a weekend with Jordan Whittington. Fast forward to September when USC arrived. He was in attendance for the Longhorns win, along with fellow stud Bru McCoy. This will likely come down to if he wants or doesn't want to play at Alabama (Florida has renewed its push as of late). But his relationship with Drayton and fellow Texas commits have led us to believe the Horns have a good shot. We've also heard some happy hour type stuff that would offer hope. The more likely outcome is Texas lands Cain, though.
WR Kennedy Lewis, Melissa (TX) -- The 6-foot-3, 190-pound pass-catcher and former TCU pledge was set to announce his commitment today. That was put on pause. With wide receiver numbers in Austin filling up, we believe the Horns are being judicious with its last few spots. Lewis loves the Longhorns, and might still make it in this class, but with others looking good (Bru McCoy) and the numbers already thin for 2020 (looks to be around 18 right now), the #SaveTheShip mantra might be the route here. Said one collegiate source on Lewis' ability, "If we hadn't seen him in person numerous times this summer we wouldn't have been as high on him -- his film this year isn't overwhelming." That sort of sums up the sentiments of many. The upside is noticeable but numbers being tight is a wrench.
OT Isaiah Hookfin, Sugarland Dulles (TX) -- We were able to take a look at the 6-foot-5, 265-pounder in Sugar Land on Thursday night. We see what Texas sees - untapped potential, great feet and balance, and really solid technique in pass protection. Not much punch and could play angrier in the run game. He's a late bloomer that would tuck neatly into this class. More schools are catching on as well - Auburn, Mississippi State, and Arizona State want him now too. He took an unofficial visit last weekend to Austin, bonded Wild Hogs-style with Tyler Johnson, and will likely take an official to the 40 Acres in December. I like where this is trending.
OL Myron Cunningham, Iowa Central CC (IA) -- His recruitment and Hookfin's could be tied together. Both are tackles who offer athleticism, they're just on different plots of the eligibility spectrum. Cunningham, like Hookfin, will likely visit in December. Taking both isn't out of the question but Texas may defer to the grad transfer market if it doesn't go with a Juco option.
OL Andrew Coker, Katy Taylor (TX) (TCU) -- This one continues to be somewhat of a mystery. While we feel he's a guard at the next level, Coker has done well to begin transforming his body. His game has improved as well, but again, we feel like he's a guard due to lack of foot quickness. The key here is how much mutual interest there is. The offer was big for him, and Herb Hand loves his potential. We have him as one to watch because we know they'd like one more interior lineman if they find one good enough.
LB Caleb Johnson, Fullerton College (CA) -- If Oregon hadn't offered, there would be little intrigue where he'd be signing. But they did and he's visiting Eugene next weekend. Still, there's some confidence here with Texas thanks to the staff prioritizing him. He's made it clear he loves the Horns and the opportunity for immediate playing time. The fact UT isn't openly pursuing another inside linebacker is a notable data point on their confidence level. The staff will know its fate in the next few weeks so there would still be time to throw a Hail Mary at the position.
DE Myron Warren, Many (LA) -- Another former TCU commit, Warren and Texas started out with a conversation between Myron and coach Oscar Giles, then bloomed into an offer, and now he'll visit Austin next weekend vs Iowa State. Don't get it twisted; if LSU offers, he'll be a Tiger. But after his visit to Baton Rouge last weekend, he left without an offer or even the discussion of one. So far, so good for Texas. With Sweat and Mpagi as the only defensive line takes so far in 2019, Warren is a priority. With Orgeron's numbers tighter than his belt, this could be the third talented defensive linemen Texas lands from Louisiana thanks to lack of in-state push.
DB Jalen Catalon, Mansfield Legacy (TX): The multi-sport star is heavy on Arkansas, light on Texas...today. But he’ll be back for an OV in December and we’ll see how Naivar/Texas combat the Hogs’ negative ways. This isn’t over, it’s just not trending well...today. Catalon could see the light.
Similar to last cycle, there could and most likely will be a few new names popping up. Herman always has contingencies. We'll have notes and quotes from some of these remaining targets in the next Scoop. Stay tuned.
War Room:
(Suchomel)
I had about a 30-minute conversation with the father of Rivals100 RB Noah Cain shortly after he touched down on Monday in returning home from Noah’s Texas official visit. In talking to Mr. Cain, and to Noah himself, I’m not sure Texas could have done much better of a job with this one.
Noah still has three visits left, starting with Penn State this week, then LSU and then Ohio State. This one’s not settled, but I don’t think it’s a stretch to say the Longhorns may be the team to beat coming out of last weekend’s official visit.
Some comments from my conversation with Terence Cain …
On the visit overall:
“The visit went extremely well. The entire family left feeling good. We got answers to a lot of questions we wanted to find out, of course in reference to the actual backfield presently, how they’re going to use Noah. All of that was identified and of course, Noah would be one of their every-down backs coming in. We’re not trying to beat him up early, but he would have significant impact in the gameplan right away.
“I tell you, we left there feeling comfortable. All of his mom’s questions were answered - the academic piece, the entire structure of the program outside of football at UT. The culture is really in place. The student athletes have bought in. It’s really working and you’re seeing the fruits early (under this staff).”
On the game:
“The game environment was awesome. It was a tough loss. But at the same time, the offense put points on the board. The defense wasn’t not able to stop West Virginia. But a lot of points about the program, they were very honest as to the weaknesses of the program, what they need to do to get better. It wasn’t like they were trying to hide. You watch a ton of football, I’ve been in this for a long time, getting Texas back up to that high caliber team, when you’re building a team it takes time. They’re doing well with recruiting the recruiting class but they may still be about two years away, which is fine.”
On what weaknesses were discussed:
“They knew the defense wasn’t there. They don’t really have that run game yet, or said the quarterback has been their running back as well. They said ‘We want him to run sometimes, but don’t want him to run as much as he runs.’ With a solid run game, this kid wouldn’t be running as much as he has. It’s not ideal. They did redshirt all their freshman linemen. Those guys, looking at where they were coming out of high school to now, they’ve each added about 15 pounds, so they’re looking really good.”
On the progress he sees in the Texas program:
“We saw tremendous improvement, tremendous improvement. I’m not going to say they’re all the way there, but they had some guys who are banged up. But for the spring, you’re going to see those Longhorns - these guys are getting very, very close. If these guys can stay healthy through spring and the season, have a chance to be special.
“They’re progressing even though they’re a work in progress. Another thing, they’re finally getting to a point where they’re getting that depth chart back. You have to have that as well. If you plan on continuing to beat the Oklahomas for years to come, you have to continue with the depth chart.”
On the recruiting message from the UT staff:
“With Noah, he’s a Metroplex guy, played for Denton Guyer before transferring to IMG. So returning back home, to be that featured back for the program. Coach (Stan) Drayton is a very, very good running backs coach in developing young running backs to reach their goals to get to the NFL. He has done extremely well, has had numerous backs over his 26-plus years have success not only at the collegiate level, but pro level as well. Like Ezekiel Elliott, when he came in, he wasn’t ready. It was a process along with him buying into the vision (Drayton) had for him. He said look, this guy was able to do some remarkable things when I had him back at Ohio State. Noah’s relationship, how they communicate, feeling comfortable with coach Drayton is very good, but the overall environment too. Coach Herman had a slip of paper, he’d been keeping in my pocket. It had at least 7 or 8 guys they want to sign for this class. It wasn’t just a piece of paper he had just printed and folded up. You could tell it had been in his pocket for probably 30 days or more. It had Noah Cain’s name, as a top priority, with 7 other names on there. He was very transparent, very honest in answering questions that mom had about the program. We Spent at least a couple hours with him, not just the dining and eating part, but spent at least two hours in his office talking.”
On Texas’ biggest selling point that’s different than other schools:
“Of course, the academic piece is very strong. Noah wanting to be a business major, with their school of business, it’s one of the top one in the entire United States. The McCombs School is critical. The direction of the program too. The timing is excellent if Noah was to choose Texas, where they are right now, to get in, they’re going to do some unique things. The actual alumni is giving Herman and his staff what they need to get Texas back to the Texas we know. That’s very important.
“I laughed with coach Herman and Drayton. When we went to Texas a year-and-a half ago, that was my first time going to UT. When I went there, I was like ‘This can’t be The University of Texas. This is the flagship school.’ Certain things, they had to get rid of some of the things to get this program up with other big time schools – the facilities, just the culture of student athletes, the way of doing things with a championship mentality. That’s awesome. … It doesn’t win a game, but it sure is nice to have.”
On his overall impression of what stood out about Texas:
“The program overall, even with coach Yancy (McKnight). We met with him. All the key people, the questions we had, everyone was very thorough with what they had to share with us. What we wanted to find out, how Noah would be instrumental in their system athletically and academically was answered. Even coach Herman’s support, Rashaad (Samples), Dr. (Ryan) Sutton, (Derek) Chang, (Bryan) Carrington, Jordyn (Fields) … shout out to all those guys. Don’t forget those guys. The support staff was very, very awesome.”
******
(Suchomel)
Offensive lineman Isaiah Hookfin attended the West Virginia came on an unofficial visit and was hopeful a UT offer would come his way. Hookfin got his wish after the game was over.
“We went in the lounge area. Coach (Herb) Hand had come and talked to me and my family and presented the offer to me,” Hookfin said. “I kind of saw it coming, but didn’t really see it at that moment. It was just joy, happiness of course.
“It was the same with my family. My mom was excited as always, my dad was happy for me. My little sister was just there. She was proud of me didn’t want to show it.”
Texas is in a good spot here and has made a really good impression over the past few weeks, but Hookfin has maintained that he wants to take his time and not rush into a decision.
“I’m still taking it slow. I’m not going to rush anything. I still want to evaluate all my options, look at what fits me, what can help me the best,” Hookfin said.
The 6-5, 273-pound Hookfin said he and the UT staff talked about an official visit, but no dates has been set up. He did say it’s “likely” that he’ll return for an OV though. Auburn is another that will get a visit and Mississippi State is a possibility that was mentioned.
When it comes time to decide, Hookfin said getting on the field early will be a key factor.
“Right now it’s playing time,” he said when asked what factors will be important in his decision. I want to set myself up to start or play a lot as a freshman. Just to get some experience, if possible, get those years and then be able to go to the next level.”
I asked Hookfin what he knew of UT’s depth chart …
“They have a good amount of depth as far as o-linemen. I know coach Hand is looking for more
lean tackles like Cosmi, that type of build at tackle,” Hookfin said. “I know he’s looking more of that in the last couple years. So I’m really trying to set myself up to be that guy for these schools.”
******
(Suchomel)
A quick update on JUCO linebacker Caleb Johnson …
When Johnson visited Texas in mid-October, he told me Texas was the team to beat and he had a hard time envisioning a scenario where anyone would be able to overtake the Longhorns. He did mention to other recruits behind the scenes that he’d likely wind up at Texas or Oregon.
Johnson told me earlier this week that he had locked in his Oregon official visit for November 17. Needless to say, we’ll be watching that one closely. The good news … Texas still holds the edge heading into his last visit.
“It’s still Texas but it’s still going to be a hard decision,” Johnson said.
******
(Suchomel)
Many (LA) defensive end Myron Warren visited LSU last weekend. The good news for Texas is that Warren did not receive an offer. The not-so-good news is that it sounds like Warren is still being considered for an offer by the in-state Tigers.
I communicated with someone on the LSU side of things who put it at a 50/50 chance that LSU would offer. I’m told it’s not so much a numbers thing as it simply is LSU wanting to do more evaluation on the 6-4, 230-pounder who recently picked up a UT offer and subsequently decommitted from TCU.
Warren tells me he’ll be in Austin next weekend for the Iowa State game, so Texas will have its first real chance to blow him away. I expect Warren to also take a UT official visit (he currently does not have any official visits set up). The Longhorns’ chances are very good here, but the LSU situation is certainly worth monitoring.
******
(Suchomel)
Questions about JUCO defensive line recruiting seem to come up every week. Here’s a bit of good news for you all.
Iowa Western Community College defensive end Malcolm Lee tells me not only has he been in touch with Oscar Giles (a lot), he’ll probably be taking a Texas visit in December.
*****
(Suchomel)
I had about a 30-minute conversation with the father of Rivals100 RB Noah Cain shortly after he touched down on Monday in returning home from Noah’s Texas official visit. In talking to Mr. Cain, and to Noah himself, I’m not sure Texas could have done much better of a job with this one.
Noah still has three visits left, starting with Penn State this week, then LSU and then Ohio State. This one’s not settled, but I don’t think it’s a stretch to say the Longhorns may be the team to beat coming out of last weekend’s official visit.
Some comments from my conversation with Terence Cain …
On the visit overall:
“The visit went extremely well. The entire family left feeling good. We got answers to a lot of questions we wanted to find out, of course in reference to the actual backfield presently, how they’re going to use Noah. All of that was identified and of course, Noah would be one of their every-down backs coming in. We’re not trying to beat him up early, but he would have significant impact in the gameplan right away.
“I tell you, we left there feeling comfortable. All of his mom’s questions were answered - the academic piece, the entire structure of the program outside of football at UT. The culture is really in place. The student athletes have bought in. It’s really working and you’re seeing the fruits early (under this staff).”
On the game:
“The game environment was awesome. It was a tough loss. But at the same time, the offense put points on the board. The defense wasn’t not able to stop West Virginia. But a lot of points about the program, they were very honest as to the weaknesses of the program, what they need to do to get better. It wasn’t like they were trying to hide. You watch a ton of football, I’ve been in this for a long time, getting Texas back up to that high caliber team, when you’re building a team it takes time. They’re doing well with recruiting the recruiting class but they may still be about two years away, which is fine.”
On what weaknesses were discussed:
“They knew the defense wasn’t there. They don’t really have that run game yet, or said the quarterback has been their running back as well. They said ‘We want him to run sometimes, but don’t want him to run as much as he runs.’ With a solid run game, this kid wouldn’t be running as much as he has. It’s not ideal. They did redshirt all their freshman linemen. Those guys, looking at where they were coming out of high school to now, they’ve each added about 15 pounds, so they’re looking really good.”
On the progress he sees in the Texas program:
“We saw tremendous improvement, tremendous improvement. I’m not going to say they’re all the way there, but they had some guys who are banged up. But for the spring, you’re going to see those Longhorns - these guys are getting very, very close. If these guys can stay healthy through spring and the season, have a chance to be special.
“They’re progressing even though they’re a work in progress. Another thing, they’re finally getting to a point where they’re getting that depth chart back. You have to have that as well. If you plan on continuing to beat the Oklahomas for years to come, you have to continue with the depth chart.”
On the recruiting message from the UT staff:
“With Noah, he’s a Metroplex guy, played for Denton Guyer before transferring to IMG. So returning back home, to be that featured back for the program. Coach (Stan) Drayton is a very, very good running backs coach in developing young running backs to reach their goals to get to the NFL. He has done extremely well, has had numerous backs over his 26-plus years have success not only at the collegiate level, but pro level as well. Like Ezekiel Elliott, when he came in, he wasn’t ready. It was a process along with him buying into the vision (Drayton) had for him. He said look, this guy was able to do some remarkable things when I had him back at Ohio State. Noah’s relationship, how they communicate, feeling comfortable with coach Drayton is very good, but the overall environment too. Coach Herman had a slip of paper, he’d been keeping in my pocket. It had at least 7 or 8 guys they want to sign for this class. It wasn’t just a piece of paper he had just printed and folded up. You could tell it had been in his pocket for probably 30 days or more. It had Noah Cain’s name, as a top priority, with 7 other names on there. He was very transparent, very honest in answering questions that mom had about the program. We Spent at least a couple hours with him, not just the dining and eating part, but spent at least two hours in his office talking.”
On Texas’ biggest selling point that’s different than other schools:
“Of course, the academic piece is very strong. Noah wanting to be a business major, with their school of business, it’s one of the top one in the entire United States. The McCombs School is critical. The direction of the program too. The timing is excellent if Noah was to choose Texas, where they are right now, to get in, they’re going to do some unique things. The actual alumni is giving Herman and his staff what they need to get Texas back to the Texas we know. That’s very important.
“I laughed with coach Herman and Drayton. When we went to Texas a year-and-a half ago, that was my first time going to UT. When I went there, I was like ‘This can’t be The University of Texas. This is the flagship school.’ Certain things, they had to get rid of some of the things to get this program up with other big time schools – the facilities, just the culture of student athletes, the way of doing things with a championship mentality. That’s awesome. … It doesn’t win a game, but it sure is nice to have.”
On his overall impression of what stood out about Texas:
“The program overall, even with coach Yancy (McKnight). We met with him. All the key people, the questions we had, everyone was very thorough with what they had to share with us. What we wanted to find out, how Noah would be instrumental in their system athletically and academically was answered. Even coach Herman’s support, Rashaad (Samples), Dr. (Ryan) Sutton, (Derek) Chang, (Bryan) Carrington, Jordyn (Fields) … shout out to all those guys. Don’t forget those guys. The support staff was very, very awesome.”
******
(Suchomel)
Offensive lineman Isaiah Hookfin attended the West Virginia came on an unofficial visit and was hopeful a UT offer would come his way. Hookfin got his wish after the game was over.
“We went in the lounge area. Coach (Herb) Hand had come and talked to me and my family and presented the offer to me,” Hookfin said. “I kind of saw it coming, but didn’t really see it at that moment. It was just joy, happiness of course.
“It was the same with my family. My mom was excited as always, my dad was happy for me. My little sister was just there. She was proud of me didn’t want to show it.”
Texas is in a good spot here and has made a really good impression over the past few weeks, but Hookfin has maintained that he wants to take his time and not rush into a decision.
“I’m still taking it slow. I’m not going to rush anything. I still want to evaluate all my options, look at what fits me, what can help me the best,” Hookfin said.
The 6-5, 273-pound Hookfin said he and the UT staff talked about an official visit, but no dates has been set up. He did say it’s “likely” that he’ll return for an OV though. Auburn is another that will get a visit and Mississippi State is a possibility that was mentioned.
When it comes time to decide, Hookfin said getting on the field early will be a key factor.
“Right now it’s playing time,” he said when asked what factors will be important in his decision. I want to set myself up to start or play a lot as a freshman. Just to get some experience, if possible, get those years and then be able to go to the next level.”
I asked Hookfin what he knew of UT’s depth chart …
“They have a good amount of depth as far as o-linemen. I know coach Hand is looking for more
lean tackles like Cosmi, that type of build at tackle,” Hookfin said. “I know he’s looking more of that in the last couple years. So I’m really trying to set myself up to be that guy for these schools.”
******
(Suchomel)
A quick update on JUCO linebacker Caleb Johnson …
When Johnson visited Texas in mid-October, he told me Texas was the team to beat and he had a hard time envisioning a scenario where anyone would be able to overtake the Longhorns. He did mention to other recruits behind the scenes that he’d likely wind up at Texas or Oregon.
Johnson told me earlier this week that he had locked in his Oregon official visit for November 17. Needless to say, we’ll be watching that one closely. The good news … Texas still holds the edge heading into his last visit.
“It’s still Texas but it’s still going to be a hard decision,” Johnson said.
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(Suchomel)
Many (LA) defensive end Myron Warren visited LSU last weekend. The good news for Texas is that Warren did not receive an offer. The not-so-good news is that it sounds like Warren is still being considered for an offer by the in-state Tigers.
I communicated with someone on the LSU side of things who put it at a 50/50 chance that LSU would offer. I’m told it’s not so much a numbers thing as it simply is LSU wanting to do more evaluation on the 6-4, 230-pounder who recently picked up a UT offer and subsequently decommitted from TCU.
Warren tells me he’ll be in Austin next weekend for the Iowa State game, so Texas will have its first real chance to blow him away. I expect Warren to also take a UT official visit (he currently does not have any official visits set up). The Longhorns’ chances are very good here, but the LSU situation is certainly worth monitoring.
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(Suchomel)
Questions about JUCO defensive line recruiting seem to come up every week. Here’s a bit of good news for you all.
Iowa Western Community College defensive end Malcolm Lee tells me not only has he been in touch with Oscar Giles (a lot), he’ll probably be taking a Texas visit in December.
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This means the staff feels good about one of several options:
-Bru McCoy is a real possibility
-Higgins may not get into Stanford and could fall into our laps
-LJH and Collin Johnson could one or both be returning next year
Just watched Texas basketball so I really needed something positive in my life. Didn't have to look far...
Jordan Whittington and Cuero are just goin' sideways on Wimberly. 49-7 at halftime. Whittington has four TDs, including another pick six.
Jordan Whittington and Cuero are just goin' sideways on Wimberly. 49-7 at halftime. Whittington has four TDs, including another pick six.
Good News on the way (11/12)
– Super K
Expect to see a "Shhh" in the very near future.
Have received word that the Horns can expect a bit of good recruiting news in the very near future.
Bru McCoy | Sourced Update
– Super K
Spoken to multiple sources close to the McCoy’s and have obviously had my fair share of conversations with the family. Here’s the latest.
***Folks close to the family tell me that USC remains a tough team to beat in this one. Interestingly, I’m told that Texas is doing a better job recruiting him but it’s less about the recruitment and more about the advantage the USC has an institution and alumni base.
***Source added that in their opinion, if the decision was made today it would still be USC. But said, things are so bad there right now that in a situation like this where Bru seemed to be a lock to USC, Texas does have a chance.
***I’m told that the Texas side feels fairly confident. The family continues to give them reason to be hopeful and continue pursuing Bru.
***Again, from a recruiting perspective and obviously from the perspective of stability and on-field success, Texas is winning. If those factors end up being the deciding factor then Texas likely takes this one. But, I’m told that as an institution, USC is nearly unbeatable in this recruitment. It all depends on what ultimately ends up being the most important factors.
Bottom line based on what I’ve heard, Texas is out-recruiting USC in this one (by a mile) but USC remains tough to beat.
– Super K
Expect to see a "Shhh" in the very near future.
Have received word that the Horns can expect a bit of good recruiting news in the very near future.
Bru McCoy | Sourced Update
– Super K
Spoken to multiple sources close to the McCoy’s and have obviously had my fair share of conversations with the family. Here’s the latest.
***Folks close to the family tell me that USC remains a tough team to beat in this one. Interestingly, I’m told that Texas is doing a better job recruiting him but it’s less about the recruitment and more about the advantage the USC has an institution and alumni base.
***Source added that in their opinion, if the decision was made today it would still be USC. But said, things are so bad there right now that in a situation like this where Bru seemed to be a lock to USC, Texas does have a chance.
***I’m told that the Texas side feels fairly confident. The family continues to give them reason to be hopeful and continue pursuing Bru.
***Again, from a recruiting perspective and obviously from the perspective of stability and on-field success, Texas is winning. If those factors end up being the deciding factor then Texas likely takes this one. But, I’m told that as an institution, USC is nearly unbeatable in this recruitment. It all depends on what ultimately ends up being the most important factors.
Bottom line based on what I’ve heard, Texas is out-recruiting USC in this one (by a mile) but USC remains tough to beat.
Saw on the Twitterverse where DeGabriel Floyd tweeted at Bryan Carrington something along the lines of we got us another one...seems that guy is the "recruiter" for this class out of the players
That would be great news. Imagine if we didn't lose all the juniors last year.
Poona, Malik and Deshon come to mind. Would've been huge for our D this year. Not to mention H.Hill and our MVP the punter.
Don't forget Connor. And btw it looks like he was not ready for the NFL. Hopefully some guys learn from his mistake.
I don't even notice him. Does he even play for the Cowboys? I haven't paid much attention to the OL of Dallas this year.
Well I only know what I hear from friends, but yes he's started from day one. According to my Cowboy fan friends, they wish he'd stayed in school, because he sucks. They say he's the weak link in the line.
Can you call it a mistake when he has been the day 1 starter at LG? Do I wish he would have stayed? Absolutely. Do I think he would be better this year than last? Absolutely. But to say a 21 year old kid who is the starting LG for any NFL team in his first year is a mistake? That's a tough standard. What level of success would he have to be having in order for it to not be a mistake?
Fair point. I would just say he probably didn't expect to be abused like he has. It's probably embarrassing. He was only starting because he was the first round draft pick. You know, Cowboys not wanting it to look like they wasted a first rounder.
From what I'm hearing now, he was injured this week and did not play. Cowboys won at Philly, and supposedly it's the best the Cowboys line has looked all year because he was out. I wouldn't think that's what how he wanted to be thought of in his first year, but he is getting paid.
Did I ever tell y'all how much I hate when WRs catch the goddamn ball with their chest? A little lesson from a Cuero boy on catching the ball....
Been starting all year till two games ago I think he had a knee issue and is day to day at the moment
New video of Jordan's first half highlights vs Wimberly. Includes much better view of that catch.
Please forgive him punking that one kid something turrible. It was my understanding that Wimberly was talking mad shit after their upset of Cuero last year in the playoffs, and Jordan, well, he holds grudges.
Would've loved to be a fly on the wall when Wimberly discovered Cuero got put in their district this year. Lol.
Btw this is only the first half highlights, because it was 73-7 in the third quarter. Lol
Please forgive him punking that one kid something turrible. It was my understanding that Wimberly was talking mad shit after their upset of Cuero last year in the playoffs, and Jordan, well, he holds grudges.
Would've loved to be a fly on the wall when Wimberly discovered Cuero got put in their district this year. Lol.
Btw this is only the first half highlights, because it was 73-7 in the third quarter. Lol
he didnt have to do that kid like that lol
Someone call CPS, because #3's daddy just beat him!
Connor was a 2nd round pick for the Cowboys. Leighton Vander Esch was the first round pick
First time hearing about this recruit. Is he a scholarship player or a preferred walk-on?
National 24/7 analyst, Wiltfong, has crystal balled OL Isaiah Hoofkin of Fort Bend Dulles to UT.
JUCO DE Jacoby Jones has de-committed from OU. Great news before his visit this weekend. Holland from 24/7 has put in a Texas crystal ball.
https://247sports.com/Player/Jacoby-Jones-46056081/
https://www.hudl.com/profile/9622278/Jacoby-Jones
Holland from 24/7 has put in a Texas crystal ball for RB Noah Cain.
He believes LSU is pretty much out since Cain doesn't want to be in a three RB class (which he would be at LSU), and he's uncertain if he'll even take an official to LSU now since Emery was supposed to make a decision after the early signing period but instead pulled the trigger today.
Georgia picks up another RB, so even better news for Cain.
https://247sports.com/Player/Kenny-McIntosh-81995/
JUCO DE Jacoby Jones has de-committed from OU. Great news before his visit this weekend. Holland from 24/7 has put in a Texas crystal ball.
https://247sports.com/Player/Jacoby-Jones-46056081/
https://www.hudl.com/profile/9622278/Jacoby-Jones
Holland from 24/7 has put in a Texas crystal ball for RB Noah Cain.
He believes LSU is pretty much out since Cain doesn't want to be in a three RB class (which he would be at LSU), and he's uncertain if he'll even take an official to LSU now since Emery was supposed to make a decision after the early signing period but instead pulled the trigger today.
Georgia picks up another RB, so even better news for Cain.
https://247sports.com/Player/Kenny-McIntosh-81995/
Well, I guess we can only get Cain or Sanders, since we already have Derrian Brown. I'd make god damn sure Sanders is out before I took Cain.
yeah, i'm sure he'd rather be learning the game for free and risking another major injury rather than making a couple million. look, i hope selfishly that all our juniors come back because it could help Texas win more games. but as soon as someone offers you a couple million against doing that same activity for free, if you take the couple million it is a good choice even if you are not as good as expected.
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