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Quarterback - Ash got the first-team reps today in practice and is the guy in front, even if Case McCoy starts some drills ahead of Ash. It's Ash's show. Case McCoy and Connor Brewer aren't going to lay back, though. The coaches want an intense battle. (A battle they'd love Ash to pull away and win.)
Running back - Mack says Joe Bergeron and Malcolm Brown are healthy and good to go. They've taken part in strength and conditioning but have been limited some in the 7 on 7 stuff in the off-season program. So this is good news. I ran the thought of Bergeron at FB by one of my sources inside the program, and that source laughed. "No. He proved he's a tailback. That's where he's working. Ryan Roberson is the fullback," the source said.
Receiver - The best news of the day is that Mike Davis seems rejuvenated. Mack talked about how Davis seemed "discouraged" at times last season but that he has done "everything right" in the off-season. (You'd probably be discouraged too if you roomed with Darius White last year.)
John Harris, who missed almost all of last season with a foot injury, is still limited right now but is expected back at full strength later in spring workouts. The coaches are high on Harris and can’t wait for him to get back on the field.
Marquise Goodwin will work some with the football team in the spring, although he Sheroid Evans and D.J. Monroe are all running track. All three are running track this weekend and will miss the first couple football practices (today and Saturday).
Miles Onyegbule is up to 228 pounds and is working some at WR as well as H-back and could grow right into a tight end. Mack said Jaxon Shipley's knee is fine and that Shipley is full go.
Tight end - Step front and center M.J. McFarland. He will be one of the more intriguing stories of the spring. Mack said McFarland performed well on scout team last year and that he's 260 pounds at 6-6 and gets to prove he can be an in-line blocker this season as a redshirt freshman.
Offensive line - Donald Hawkins got a look at left tackle when practices started today with Josh Cochran at right tackle. Trey Hopkins, as Orangebloods.com reported this week, has moved to left guard. Dominic Espinosa was at center with Mason Walters at right guard. Asked a source tonight if Hopkins will end up at left guard and was told it's way too early to tell. The coaches want Garrett Porter to push Espinosa at center, and Porter has had a great off-season.
The guard depth with Walters, Hopkins and Sedrick Flowers looks promising. The depth at tackle should be solid with Paden Kelley, Garrett Greenlea and possibly even Camrhon Hughes working his way into the rotation. Luke Poehlmann will work at OT, G and TE.
Defensive line - Brandon Moore got solid reviews from the coaches leading into spring practices today. So did Ashton Dorsey and Desmond Jackson. At defensive end, Alex Okafor needs to have a big spring from a leadership standpoint. Reggie Wilson needs to take advantage of the reps he’ll get with Jackson Jeffcoat out as does Cedric Reed.
Linebacker - This is going to be fun. Jordan Hicks can play all three LB positions, and Mack Brown hinted that Jordan may be moving to MLB. You’d think that’s Steve Edmond’s territory. Edmond has his weight down to 255 from 263. So the “gut” is getting smaller. Demarco Cobbs is going to be a great matchup against spread teams because of his speed. Mack even talked about Cobbs as a “hybrid nickel safety.” Edmond may be a guy who gets lots of time against downhill offenses like OU and K-State. When I asked Mack Brown about Tevin Jackson, he said the only guy who has established himself at LB is Jordan Hicks. “For everyone else, it’s a great opportunity,” he said.
Defensive back - Quandre Diggs and Carrington Byndom are your starting corners, and Kenny Vaccaro is a starting safety. You’d think Adrian Phillips will be the other starting safety, but Phillips is out for the spring (shoulder surgery).
So it’s a great chance for guys like Mykkele Thompson, Sheroid Evans and Josh Turner to show what they’ve got at safety. The coaches are high on Mykkele. He gets to practices early and stays late. Akina is looking for his best four and always cross trains corners at safety and vice versa. Mack said Sheroid Evans would work at CB and S as well as Josh Turner. Leroy Scott and A.J. White are also trying to break into the rotation.
Special teams - Will Russ looks like your punter for right now. David Ash is working some at punter as well, but most likely for situational pooch punts. In other words, if Ash ends up the team’s starting punter it would be a surprise.
Walk-on Ben Pruitt is going to get a long look at FG kicker before Nick Jordan and walk-on Nick Rose arrive in the summer.
There’s a new rule in college football for 2012: kickoffs are from the 35 and touchbacks come out to the 25. So coaches have to decide if they are going to squib more. The NCAA wants to limit the high-speed collisions on kickoffs.
Quandre Diggs and Jaxon Shipley give you options on punt returns. Diggs also figures to be involved in kick returns. (BROWN)
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I often get asked who could ever take over for DeLoss Dodds as athletic director when and if Dodds ever decides to retire?
Dodds is 72 and received a contract extension through Aug. 31, 2015 at a salary of $700,000. His new contract also includes a provision that after serving as AD, he could be employed part-time in a special role at UT through Aug. 31, 2020 with a salary of $100,000 plus benefits.
Well, keep an eye on Jim Baker, a longtime member of Dodds' staff in the athletic department, who just left to become AD at UT-Arlington. I was told the plan is to bring Baker back as AD at Texas in the fall of 2015 (as long as Baker rocks the house at UTA) and would then have Dodds serving as an adviser/consultant to Baker through 2020.
Baker has established relationships at UT with the administration and boosters and is a trusted member of Dodds' inner circle. File that one away. (BROWN)
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Moving on to recruiting ...
Belton tight end Durham Smythe, who picked up an offer at UT's first junior day, was at the Horns' initial practice of the spring season on Thursday.
We were able to get a quick comment from Smythe on the visit.
"The overall atmosphere was very comfortable and there was a genuine sense of confidence surrounding the team," Smythe said.
We weren't able to collect further details, but the thought is that Texas is still in a solid position with Smythe, one of the country's hottest prospects of late. Smythe continues to pick up offers on a daily basis. As of right now, he's still scheduled to visit Stanford on March 3. (Suchomel)
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Texas reached out to the Rossville (Ga.) Ridgeland coaching staff on Wednesday to express an interest in safety Vonn Bell. On Thursday, per Duane Akina's request, Bell got in touch with Akina to touch base. Actually, he called Akina twice.
Bell and Akina had an initial conversation getting to know one another and then Bell later called Akina back to get some clarification on whether or not he had a verbal offer from UT (he was told that he did ... but as always, nothing's official until a player meets with Mack Brown)
"I just got off the phone with him," Bell told us shortly after hanging up with Akina. "He was telling me about how he's the DB coach, who they have in the NFL, things like that. It was good. We're just trying to get to know each other right now."
Bell spent a few years in Dallas (he moved to Chattanooga in the first grade) and he still has family in the Metroplex.
"I know a lot about (Texas). Everything's good. They're a Big 12 school that's on my list. I have an offer from another Big 12 school (Oklahoma State) and now Texas, so we'll see what happens."
Akina talked to Bell about coming to Austin for a visit. The 6-1, 190-pound prospect said he'd have to talk to his family and his coaches, but a stop in Austin this spring or summer is something he would like to consider.
"He was talking to me about me seeing the campus and meeting everyone there. I just have to talk to everybody to see," Bell said. "We're going to stay in touch, build a relationship. They're not going to offer many DBs, so we'll just have to see what happens."
Bell has offers from the likes of Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Ole Miss, Oklahoma State, Tennessee, UCLA and Vanderbilt. He visited Alabama last week and will visit Auburn this week. There's a lot of talk that the SEC schools hold the inside track (mainly, Bama) but Bell said he's keeping an open mind.
"I don't really have any leaders. I'm just going to wait until I visit everybody, see what they have to offer, talk to my family and see what happens," Bell said.
We'll stay on top of this one to see if Texas can get Bell in town for a visit. (Suchomel)
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Another out-of-state update, this time on Ft. Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas DE Joey Bosa.
In case you missed it, Bosa talked to UT earlier this week.
On the surface, this one may seem like a longshot, but we can say with confidence that Bosa has a strong interest in the Longhorns and he's the one who actually set the wheels in motion on the conversation with the UT staff. Does that mean Texas can win him over? We'll see, but this one has the feel of being more than just fleeting interest. The problem? Alabama is thought to be in the lead, with Wisconsin and Ohio State also high on the list. Bosa is also "looking into" Florida and Florida State, although he said the out-of-state schools on his list are currently out in front.
The No. 14-ranked player on the Rivals100, Bosa said he didn't want to insert Texas into his pecking order without UT having offered, but I did ask him if Texas would factor in his list top-5 if the coaches offered.
"I'd say they would be," Bosa said.
The UT coaches told Bosa they'd follow up on their initial conversation soon. We'll stay in touch. (Suchomel)
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I was able to talk to a little birdie really dialed into recruiting in the Sunshine State about Dr. Phillips (Florida) stud safety Marcell Harris. Harris, who is rated as the No. 39 prospect overall in the 2013 Rivals100, was a potential early commitment candidate for Florida at the Gators’ first junior day. However, Harris might be a little more open than people think, despite the fact that his dad played for the Gators in the 90’s. The 6-2, 205 pound defensive back seems pretty set on taking some visits and might be a little more open than people think.
The best part for Texas fans is that according the source I spoke with tonight, Texas is second on Harris’ list behind Florida right now. Again, the Gators are thought to be the heavy lean team, but it seems odd that Florida already took two safeties and that Harris is pretty set on taking visits. This will be one to follow because it could get interesting.
Harris is scheduled to be in Tallahassee for Florida State’s junior day this weekend, but it doesn’t feel like the Sunshine State Seminoles or Hurricanes are in as good of shape as Florida, Texas, and then the likes of Ohio State and Notre Dame.(McComas)
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One player on which we'll be keeping a close eye this weekend is Alief Taylor DE Torrodney Prevot.
The 6-4, 220-pound standout has picked up a bunch of offers of late (including invitations from the likes of LSU, Texas A&M and OU).
He told us this week his decision will likely come down to how he feels he'll fit in each university's community. Does he want to be somewhere that's more rural, or does he want to be in a bigger city (like Austin)?
Prevot really likes Texas - "It's just the burnt orange. It really gets me. The Longhorns have always been a big asset to me," he said - but he did say this week that he's pretty sure he will not commit this weekend if a Texas offer is presented.
"I'm pretty dead set that I'm going to wait," Prevot said.
We've heard that before from players, only to see their tune change once they get on campus. We'll keep you all posted on this one. (Suchomel)
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A quick note on Bastrop CB Antwuan Davis, who will be in Austin for a portion of Saturday's junior day.
Davis is coming off a back injury that ended his 2011 season, but he's fully recovered. In fact, Davis said he could have come back before his junior season ended.
"I'm definitely 100 percent. I'm doing the track thing now. I got back to 100 percent at the beginning of the year. I went to a specialist, an actual sports specialist, and he said I could have just missed a couple games and come back. I was fully released around January," Davis said.
Should Texas offer Davis this weekend, or at some point down the road, the Longhorns should be in good position.
"I really like coach Akina. I like what he does with his DBs. He has this secret that he does with his DBs to get them in the NFL," Davis said. "I want that secret." (Suchomel)
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We caught up with another top out-of-state target, Tulsa East Central CB/WR Stanvon Taylor, to get an update.
"(On Wednesday), one of my coaches called me into his classroom. I had been hearing from other people that Texas was interested. But I hadn't heard anything since yesterday," Taylor said. "I talked to coach Akina and he was telling me he watched film, liked how I play and he's highly interested in me."
Taylor was invited to UT's junior day this weekend but he has a basketball and will not be able to attend. Texas is going to send him some paperwork and the possibility of getting Taylor in this spring for an unofficial visit has already been discussed.
"He's going to send me their practice schedule. He wants me to set up a date when I can get down there for a visit," Taylor said.
So what does Taylor know about Texas at this stage of the recruiting process?
"I like the fact that they win. I've only been playing football since sixth grade. Since I started watching them, I know they have good program there," Taylor said. "I have heard from people who are older who took visits there, it's a really nice place. I had always been thinking about them, just waiting for them to come up where they'd be interested. Now they are so I definitely want to get down there for a visit."
Taylor has actually known Demarco Cobbs for a couple years, and the friendship has an interesting origination. Cobbs, out of Tulsa Central, was well known in Tulsa coming out of high school. He was friends with a girl at Taylor's school when Taylor was a freshman, so the two got to know each other.
"He was always around my school. He talked to me, gave me advice on anything. I talked to him about three weeks ago and he told me Texas was interested in me," Taylor said.
Taylor does not have any official favorites, but he did say he wants to stay somewhat close to home.
"My mom, she doesn't want me going too far. I want to go to school around here somewhere. Texas isn't too far. It's not very far away," Taylor said. "And it's a powerhouse. I want to go to a school that's good at football, takes it seriously, where I can get better and hopefully get ready for the next level." (Suchomel)
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On Wednesday, Ricky Seals-Jones committed to Texas, becoming the sixth commitment of the Longhorns’ 2013 recruiting class.
He enters the class ranked amongst the top prospects in the country, but it did not take any rankings or anything for people around Sealy to realize he was a special talent.
When Sealy head coach Jimmie Mitchell first saw Ricky Seals-Jones as a seventh grade quarterback, he knew Seals-Jones had immense potential. In fact when Ricky was a freshman he let his budding talent know just how special he had the chance to be.
“Coach Mitchell called me into his office and told me if you keep working hard you’ll be able to go to a big school and do big things,” Seals-Jones said.
That was when Ricky first realized he had the chance to realize his dreams.
Seals-Jones was not any normal freshman though. Not only was he the Sealy Tigers starting varsity safety, but he was second-team all-district. Following his freshman year the secret was out, and parents Buffy and Chester Jones knew their son was gifted.
“When he came out his freshman year and they put him on the varsity and he held his ground, and then his sophomore year he just excelled,” Chester Jones said. “Then this summer I knew he was going to be something special.”
As a sophomore, Seals-Jones was first-team all-district at both wide receiver and safety, and word was spreading like wildfire about the 6-5, 215-pound talent down in Sealy, Texas. By that summer, his phone was ringing off the hook and his head was spinning.
“A lot of phone calls ? late night phone calls, early morning phone calls,” Seals-Jones said. “You kind of deny them and don’t pick up. You have to press the decline button. You have school work and practice and all that. There’s a lot going on but you have to adapt and overcome.”
Jones and his family did adapt. Both parents helped take on some of the phone calls, and after another standout season as a junior it was much needed with calls, mail, and scholarship offers coming from all across the country.
Throughout the recruiting process he leaned on his family - is mom and dad and his brother. He sought advice from coach Mitchell. He also had his cousin, Hall of Fame running back Eric Dickerson, who may be one of the few people who can understand what he is going through.
“We talked a few times, but not that much. Just about how he liked it in college and he told me what to look for and to make sure it’s the right place for me and to not get forced into doing anything I don’t want to,” Seals-Jones said of Dickerson. “Other than that I haven’t really talked to him about it.”
Coach Mitchell’s office became a regular stop for the nation’s elite programs, his phone was also ringing off the hook and his email inbox was full. No doubt about it Ricky was a big deal, and it was not a question of if he would play college ball, but where.
The remarkable thing though is Seals-Jones never quit working and never let all of the attention go to his head. He often declined post-game interview requests to give his teammates a chance to speak. When the recruiting process started he would tell coaches he would play anywhere he could help the team before coach Mitchell let him know it was ok to say the position he really wanted to play.
Shoot I even have a Ricky Seals-Jones story. I did Ricky’s first interview for Rivals.com and when I talked to him yesterday he was the same humble, yes sir, no sir kid I talked to at the beginning.
By the time junior day rolled around it was already beginning to leak that this was a Texas/LSU recruiting battle. He attended the junior day at LSU February 4 and then he went to Texas February 12.
By now it has been well chronicled that on the way back from Texas he pretty much knew he was going to be a Longhorn. So what was it about the junior day that put the Longhorns over the top?
“Just talking to the coaches and the players and looking at their campus and the dorm rooms, it just felt like it was home,” Seals-Jones said.
So on Wednesday Seals-Jones let the Longhorns know he was ready to commit, and he received a very warm reception from the Texas staff.
“All the coaches were real excited,” Chester Jones said. “We talked to three coaches ? the receivers coach, Mack, and coach Giles. They’re real excited up there and they’re probably jumping and hollering now that they got him.”
And with the decision made, the family was able to breathe a little easier.
“I’m just relieved its over,” Chester Jones said. “As long as he’s happy I’m happy. I think he made a real good choice.”
Seals-Jones now plans to focus on the basketball playoffs and then getting ready for his senior football season. At Texas he will start off at receiver. He has not really talked much about basketball with the Longhorns and plans to focus on football on the college level.
Among the reasons Seals-Jones mentioned choosing the Longhorns was the education offered at the University of Texas, and he already has an idea about what he would like to study.
“Probably business, I’ll probably just own my own company, or if I don’t do that I’m sure Texas will help me find something I do like if that doesn’t work out,” Seals-Jones said. (Howell)
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Feb. 25 Confirmed Invites (by name)
George Baltimore, S, Mansfield - No. 37 LSR
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: No; Commitment: No - I’m a fan of Baltimore’s skill set and I think he has a chance to be an outstanding college player, but I just haven’t picked up a vibe that Duane Akina is ready to get jiggy with his offers.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Baltimore was invited a while back but he's never fully confirmed that he's going to attend. Texas is being very selective in the secondary so I doubt he gets an offer.
Dustin McComas: Offer: No; Commitment: No - While it feels like the Longhorns are interested, Baltimore is likely behind some others on the big board.
Jason Howell: Offer: NO; Commitment: NO - There is no doubt George Baltimore is among the top safeties in Texas. He already has offers from Baylor, Michigan St., and Texas Tech. He is planning to attend the Texas junior day and I think Texas, who is not giving out a ton of offers, holds off on an offer for right now. He is a guy to watch in the future.
Travon Blanchard, LB, West Orange-Stark - No. 61 LSR - Baylor commit
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Blanchard is not in line for an offer this weekend, but I have to believe they’d love to have him at their camp this summer.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: No; Commitment: No - This is going to be a common theme, but UT's numbers are very tight on defense and the staff plans to take its time. I'm expecting that the coaches will continue to monitor this speedster.
Dustin McComas: Offer: No; Commitment: No - A Texas offer would likely make things interesting for the Baylor commit, but I don’t think he gets one. Texas is being stingy with its defensive offers.
Jason Howell: Offer: NO; Commitment: NO - Blanchard is already a Baylor commitment, but he is definitely a linebacker worth a look. He is on the skinny side, but he is fast and he can cover some space. Right now I’m leaning more toward the no offer, but he is a guy Texas will be keeping in touch with over the next few months.
Chevoski Collins, ATH, Livingston - No. 28 LSR
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Collins was a star at the Texas camp this year and he might have to do it again this summer to receive an offer because of the tight numbers.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Texas appears to be looking at Collins as a DB (although he could certainly play at WR also), and he's another that will probably require further evaluation.
Dustin McComas: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Collins feels like a guy that is right on the cusp of receiving an offer, but isn’t quite there yet. If he got offered, he’d likely pull the trigger, but I don’t think that offer comes this weekend.
Jason Howell: Offer: NO; Commitment: NO - When Chevoski Collins was added to this list I was so happy to see it. He can play on either side of the ball at receiver or DB. I think Texas holds off for now with a few offers already out at receiver and with evaluations on going at defensive back. He’s a guy who has expressed a lot of interest in the Longhorns and had a great camp at UT this summer so this could be a surprise offer. We’ll see how it shakes out but right now I’m leaning towards a no.
Antwuan Davis, CB, Bastrop - 4-star, No. 171 Rivals250, No. 13 LSR
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: No; Commitment: No - I have to believe Davis would love an offer this weekend and he’s feeling the love from a lot of schools, but I don’t see the offer happening yet.
Jason Suchomel: No; Commitment: No - Davis is a terrific prospect and he has a lot of schools after him, but my guess is that UT will watch him this spring. Davis is fully recovered from some injury issues of 2011 but the coaches will probably want to see him in action.
Dustin McComas: Offer: No; Commitment: No - After Davis’ injury-filled season, it’s tough to expect an offer for the local product despite his outstanding talent.
Jason Howell: Offer: NO; Commitment: NO - If Davis was not coming off an injury we might be talking about commitment No. 7. When healthy he is without a doubt one of the most athletic prospects in the state. He looks the part and he tests off the chart. I think Texas lets him know they are very, very interested but they hold off on offering until he has a chance to show what he can do in the spring.
Austin Davis, OL, Mansfield
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: No; Commitment: No - The Longhorns have their eyes set on other line candidates at this point.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Davis is a pure center prospect but you have to think that Texas will wait on some other interior line prospects (mainly Darius James) before making a move here.
Dustin McComas: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Davis could be in that second group of offensive linemen that the Horns like if their other options look elsewhere.
Jason Howell: Offer: NO; Commitment: NO - Davis is an interior offensive line prospect and has been a strong presence along the offensive front for Mansfield. I don’t see a Texas offer coming his way right now.
Deoundrei Davis, LB, Cypress Woods - No. 68 LSR
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: No; Commitment: No - I’m tempted to say that he receives an offer this weekend because his stock is white hot and his film suggests he’s seriously underrated, but his name is not one of the names I’ve heard in the discussion for linebacker offers
Jason Suchomel: Offer: Yes; Commitment: No - This one's tough to call. Again, the numbers are very tight at LB so I could see Texas holding off, but I love Davis' athleticism and my gut says there's a chance he gets one of the first LB offers.
Dustin McComas: Offer: Yes; Commitment: No - His stock is red-hot right now, and the Horns seem pretty interested. Although a Texas offer probably puts the Horns near the top, if not on the top, of the list, I think that Davis holds off on a commitment somewhere because all of this is so new to him still.
Jason Howell: Offer: YES; Commitment: NO - There are not many prospects hotter in the state right now. He has seen his offer list grow since his highlight tape has hit the colleges. I’ll get right to it I think Texas offers, and I think they make a big impression. He may be a guy who commits later in the week, but I think he holds off on Saturday.
Jeremiah Gaines, TE, Red Oak - No. 54 LSR
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: No; Commitment: No -The Longhorns aren’t extending another in-state offer at the position until they know what’s up with Durham Smythe.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Texas has a guy like Durham Smythe ahead of Gaines on the list right now, so I expect the staff to stand pat for a while.
Dustin McComas: Offer: No; Commitment: No - The Horns want to make sure they add a good tight end to this class, but the first option remains Smythe.
Jason Howell: Offer: NO; Commitment: NO - This is a guy I like a lot. Gaines can do a lot of things. He can flex out at tight end. He can line up in the backfield as a fullback. He isn’t the 6-5 guy but he is a versatile big guy who can do a lot of things really well. I wouldn’t be surprised if he was offered, but I’m leaning towards a no right now. Numbers are tight and I get the feeling he is a guy Texas continues to show a lot of interest in and continues to evaluate.
Trent Gow, TE, Mansfield
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: No; Commitment: No - See Gaines.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: No; Commitment: No - His situation is much like Gaines. He's a guy that will probably be evaluated further this spring and maybe into the summer.
Dustin McComas: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Like Gaines, Gow is probably a player the Horns like but isn’t in a position to receive an offer right now because he’s behind Smythe on the board.
Jason Howell: Offer: NO; Commitment: NO - Like Gaines, Gow is a guy who can do a lot of things for you at tight end. He can line up at a lot of spots on the field and give you an athletic, physical presence with the ability to be counted on to make a play with the ball in his hands. I do not see an offer coming at this point.
Daeshon Hall, DE, Lancaster
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: No; Commitment: No - I haven’t heard his name among those in the mix for offers yet.
Jason Suchomel: No; Commitment: No - He's still not sure if he'll make it in. If he does, he's an intriguing prospect but my gut says Texas evaluates him further into the spring and/or summer.
Dustin McComas: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Hall is a new name on the scene, and probably a "high follow" prospect that Texas wants to keep an eye on.
Jason Howell: Offer: NO; Commitment: NO - This guys film is impressive. He was a move-in from Washington and is also a standout basketball player. He has already picked up a number of offers and he very well could be a guy who leaves with an offer if he is on hand for Saturday. Basketball could make it hard for him to get down to Austin, but he’s going to try to make it if he can. I say Texas continues to evaluate but I wouldn’t argue if they decided to offer. Either way I think he holds off on a commitment.
Deon Hollins, Jr., DE, Fort Bend Marshall - No. 32 LSR
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: Yes; Commitment: Yes - It’s possible that Hollins and Mike Mitchell are in contention for the same offer/slot in this class, but Hollins is a rare player on the edge. Call this a stab in the dark on my part.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: Yes; Commitment: No - Another one that's tough to call. Hollins' speed off the edge is impressive and I could see him getting an offer this weekend. If he does, it's another tough call as to whether or not he'd commit.
Dustin McComas: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Texas is interested, but I think it’s going to be selective at the DE spot. Plus, I think Prevot gets the offer and not Hollins.
Jason Howell: Offer: YES; Commitment: NO - I do not care if he is undersized. I like this guy. Coming off the edge he has a quick, explosive first step. He consistently takes on and beats bigger competition. He uses his hands well and he’s the kind of guy who gets to the QB in a hurry. Texas has been looking at him for a long time and I think being seen by coach Giles so much definitely helps. I say he leaves Texas with an offer. I do think he holds off on a commitment. I see Texas making a big impression but I think he takes some time to think things over and maybe take a few more visits.
Colin Janice, S, West Orange-Stark - No. 77 LSR
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: No; Commitment: No - I think Akina will want to see Janice at the summer camp, if possible.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: No; Commitment: No - A terrific athlete, Janice is another that will probably receive further evaluation due to very tight numbers in the secondary.
Dustin McComas: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Another player that Texas is interested in, but is down on the board some behind others at the same position.
Jason Howell: Offer: NO; Commitment: NO - The biggest knock on Janice was his size. If he comes in at a legitimate 5-11, this could get real interesting real quick. We’ll see what happens but I think Texas holds off on things for now.
Ellis “E.J.” Jefferson, WR, Denton Guyer - No. 41 LSR
Jason Suchomel: Offer: No; Commitment: No - I expect Texas to continue to monitor some other prospects at the position and with a commitment already in the fold from Jake Oliver, there’s no need to rush at yet another position with pretty tight numbers.
Dustin McComas: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Jefferson is an intriguing prospect, but he, like other receivers scheduled to be at this junior day, is probably in that second tier of wideouts behind those that have already committed or received offers from Texas.
Jason Howell: Offer: NO; Commitment: NO - Jefferson is a guy who could get one down the road, but right now scholarship numbers are tight and I think the Longhorns continue to evaluate him.
Eldridge Massington, WR, West Mesquite - 4-star, No. 245 Rivals250, No. 46 LSR
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: No; Commitment: No - He’s on the radar, but the coaches will likely wait on Ra’Shaad Samples before they do anything else. I’m of the opinion that the wide receivers offers might be done at this point.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: No; Commitment: No - With commitments from Jake Oliver and Ricky Seals-Jones, plus an offer out to Ra'Shaad Samples, I don't see Massington getting an offer at this early stage.
Dustin McComas: Offer: No; Commitment: No - With a commitments already from Jake Oliver, Ricky Seals-Jones and an offer out to Ra’shaad Samples, Texas appears to be pretty set at the receiver spot.
Jason Howell: Offer: NO; Commitment: NO - Massington has been another hot prospect and the offers have been coming in from all over. In a normal year I think Texas would probably offer, but right now I think they hold off. He is definitely a guy to keep an eye on down the road though.
Kameron Miles, S, West Mesquite - 4-star, No. 86 Rivals100, No. 9 LSR
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: No; Commitment: No - If it were me, I’d offer, but it’s not me and like I’ve said time and time again, Akina isn’t approaching this weekend with his foot on the brake per my sources.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: No; Commitment: No - This is one of the tougher ones to predict because I could certainly see him getting an offer. But with Texas looking at some top out-of-state talent, my gut tells me the coaches hold off.
Dustin McComas: Offer: Yes; Commitment: No ? Miles is probably the best player in the state and offer worthy, but with so much interest from other programs, I’d bet he doesn’t pull the trigger.
Jason Howell: Offer: YES; Commitment: NO - While Massington may not receive an offer I think Miles does receive one. He is a big, physical safety who hits a ton and can cover. He’s my No. 1 safety right now and I think Texas goes ahead and pulls the trigger on an offer. Miles does like Texas, but he has a lot of schools he is interested in. I think Texas picks up a lot of ground and makes it hard for him not to decide. I think he waits before making a decision.
Mike Mitchell, LB, Plano Prestonwood - No. 23 LSR
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: No; Commitment: No - I know everyone is expecting an offer and it could happen, but I think Hollins is going to be the guy they choose to offer.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Another intriguing prospect who I believe is right there in the mix, but my guess is that Texas carries out its evaluations a little further due to tight numbers.
Dustin McComas: Offer: No; Commitment: No - This is one of the toughest ones on the list for me to predict because I think Mitchell could very well get an offer and could commit. However, I still say that the offers to defensive players will be limited, and I’d put Davis in front of Mitchell.
Jason Howell: Offer: NO; Commitment: NO - This is one I could very easily see going either way. He does like Texas. The Longhorns are high on his list. He has picked up quite a few offers recently and has some big players coming in on him right now. I could very easily see him getting an offer. I’m going with no offer right now, but I wouldn’t be surprised if one found its way to him soon. Right now I predict no offer and no commit.
Patrick Morris, OL, Denton Guyer - No. 89 LSR
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: No; Commitment: No - There’s only one offensive line offer going out this week.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: No; Commitment: No - The offensive line numbers are tough to predict with so much flexibility from guys like Jake Raulerson and A'Shawn Robinson. But I think Morris is a guy who will be evaluated further.
Dustin McComas: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Morris is what I’d refer to as a “follow guy,” which means he’s not quite talented enough to receive an offer, but could turn into an intriguing prospect with some work.
Jason Howell: Offer: NO; Commitment: NO - Mean, mean, mean, mean, mean, mean. If you don’t like this kid’s style of play, you just don’t like football. I think he is a lot closer to receiving an offer than some may think. He’s an interior line prospect and he likes to grind. I think coach Searels is going to love the attitude. Right now I’m leaning towards a no. I see him as a guy Texas keeps a close eye on though and I could see one coming his way eventually.
Kent Perkins, OL, Dallas Lake Highlands - 4-star, No. 25 Rivals100, No. 3 LSR
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: Yes; Commitment: Yes - He’s a slam dunk for an offer and I’ll wager he either commits this weekend or in the following week.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: Yes; Commitment: Yes - Perkins has said publicly that he'll probably wait things out a bit, but Texas is very high on his list so a commit would not be a surprise at all.
Dustin McComas: Offer: Yes; Commitment: Yes - It feels like Perkins has narrowed his recruiting list down for a long time, and even when I talked to him during the fall he had it at three schools. Although he may be an Aggie lean, not pulling the trigger already means that he’s a prime candidate to do that this weekend. Again, Perkins seems like a guy that’s wanted to end the recruiting process with an idea of where he wants to go for some time. I think that’s Texas.
Jason Howell: Offer: YES; Commitment: NO - If there was a guy I felt was assured of an offer it’s Perkins. The Lake Highlands standout was invited to the first Texas junior day and is regarded as one of the top offensive tackles in the country. He gets an offer before leaving. With the offer in hand, I could see a commitment coming, but I’m going to say he holds off for now. He will be one to keep a close eye on though.
Torrodney Prevot, DE, Alief Taylor
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: Yes; Commitment: No - I’m tempted to say that he commits this weekend, but Suchomel believes he won’t, so I’m leaning on his opinion on this particular case.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: Yes; Commitment: No - His stock is sky high and he's been told he has a good chance for an offer. Prevot has said he's pretty well "dead set" on waiting things out a bit, but he likes Texas a lot.
Dustin McComas: Offer: Yes; Commitment: Yes - Prevot’s stock is on fire, and that speed off the edge is something that defensive coordinators drool about. I think Texas jumps in, offers him, and gets him to pull the trigger.
Jason Howell: Offer: YES; Commitment: NO - The Prevot train has been running full steam ahead picking up offers from just about everywhere. I’d say he’s probably the hottest prospect in Texas right now. I say the Longhorns offer. I think he takes his time though.
Robbie Rhodes, WR, Fort Worth Southwest - No. 33 LSR
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: No; Commitment: No - The coaches really like him, but even if he makes it in, they need to see what happens with Samples first.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Rhodes is not expected in, otherwise he'd be a very strong candidate for an offer
Dustin McComas: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Like the case with Massington, Texas appears to be waiting on Samples to close up the receiver position.
Jason Howell: Offer: NO; Commitment: NO - Rhodes is another prospect who may not make it down due to basketball. If he does make it he is a serious candidate for an offer. Numbers are tight and I think he probably leaves without an offer, but he is on the cusp of it.
Christopher Robinson, DT, Shreveport (La.) Woodlawn - 4-star, No. 229 Rivals250
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: No; Commitment: No - I haven’t heard that his name in the offer discussion.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Texas' numbers at DT are paper thin so I doubt an offer happens on this one.
Dustin McComas: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Robinson is likely behind some defensive tackles, and Texas already has a commitment from A’shawn Robinson, who could play DT.
Jason Howell: Offer: NO; Commitment: NO - This one is tough for me, but I’m going to say he does not get an offer. There is no doubt Robinson loves Texas, and there’s no doubt the Longhorns are interested. Texas has already worked with him at camp and there is a strong tie to Bo Davis. Right now I think he does not receive an offer.
Maurice Smith, CB, Fort Bend Dulles - No. 34 LSR
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: Yes; Commitment: Yes - I’ve decided that this kid’s rise up the rankings concludes with an offer this weekend and I’m going to go on a limb and say he commits. I could be way off-base here and Akina could simply not offer anyone at all this weekend, but this kid looks like a guy you need to offer.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: No; Commitment: No - One of the tougher ones to call from this weekend. My guess is that Smith is on the fringe for a possible offer but Duane Akina is going to be very selective.
Dustin McComas: Offer: Yes; Commitment: No - Texas has had some recent success at Dulles with Sheroid Evans, and Smith’s film screams “offer.” The big-time offers seem like a new feeling for him, and although the Horns are the dream school, I think it takes him a little bit of time before he commits.
Jason Howell: Offer: YES; Commitment: YES - Texas first got a glimpse of Smith while recruiting Sheroid Evans. They have been keeping an eye on him and I say the Longhorns offer. He has been taking his time, but Texas could change that up. I think he gets the offer and becomes a Longhorn.
Vincent Taylor, DT, San Antonio Madison - 4-star, No. 233 Rivals250, No. 36 LSR
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Nothing has changed between the first Junior Day and now that would change his offer status.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: No; Commitment: No - He's an intriguing one because he was invited to the first junior day, but I just think Texas plans to be incredibly patient with its defensive offers.
Dustin McComas: Offer: Yes; Commitment: No - Originally, Taylor was supposed to be at the first junior day, and I’m sticking to my prediction then that he gets an offer but the Horns would have to beat out LSU, which means no commitment.
Jason Howell: Offer: NO; Commitment: NO - Right now I think Texas holds off on the offer here. He’s a guy I believe Texas will continue to evaluate, but right now I think they wait a little while longer before making a decision.
Josh Thomas, OL, Shreveport (La.) Evangel Christian
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: No; Commitment: No - He might eventually be in line for an offer, but I don’t think the staff is ready to overextend their line numbers.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Thomas camped at UT last year but the guess here is that the coaches try to lock up some other OL prospects first.
Dustin McComas: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Thomas would jump on an offer, in my opinion, but the big fella is behind James and Perkins on the list.
Jason Howell: Offer: NO; Commitment: NO - Coach Searels was able to work with Thomas at the camp and the big guy was definitely impressed with Texas. The Longhorns are high on his list, but I think Texas continues to evaluate things with a few other offensive line offers out there.
Brett Wade, LB, Kennedale - 4-star, No. 239 Rivals250, No. 29 LSR
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: No; Commitment: No - I’ve heard he’s approved for an offer from a talent standpoint, so he could receive an offer, but I’m going to suggest it doesn’t happen quite yet. I’m feeling about 65% on this one.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: No; Commitment: No - He's in a pretty crowded group of linebackers vying for very few spots. He's been on UT's list for a while, but I expect Manny Diaz to hold off.
Dustn McComas: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Wade was originally a big A&M lean, and it doesn’t feel like Texas has recruited him with a ton of emphasis yet.
Jason Howell: Offer: NO; Commitment: NO - Wade really burst onto the scene and is one of the top linebackers in the state. He’s in that mix with Mike Mitchell and a few others who very well could leave this weekend with an offer. I’m leaning towards no offer right now though.
Jacorey Warrick, CB, Cypress Falls - No. 31 LSR
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: Yes; Commitment: Yes - This is a kid that could play on either side of the ball and he possesses the type of speed the coaches don’t seem to want to turn down these days.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: Yes; Commitment: Yes - The Texas coaches love this kid's versatility and he's the type that would fit in well with the UT program as a player and in the locker room.
Dustin McComas: Offer: No; Commitment: No ? I don’t think Texas can make up its mind with Warrick, who it likes as a corner a little more than a receiver. The interest is there, but it hasn’t been quite sincere enough on a consistent basis to make me think he gets an offer.
Jason Howell: Offer: YES; Commitment: YES - Warrick has shown himself to be one of the top athletes in the state. He played receiver all year for Cy Falls, but at the Texas camp he was a standout defensive back. Texas likes him on defense and I think they’ve seen enough to go ahead with the offer. Warrick grew up liking the Longhorns and I think it’s hard for him to say no. I think he leaves Austin a Longhorn.
Attendance Doubtful
Kerrick Huggins, DT, Dallas Skyline - 4-star, No. 154 Rivals250, No. 46 Rivals250 - Texas A&M commit
D.J. Ward, DE, Lawton, Okla. - 4-star, No. 99 Rivals100
Not Attending
J.T. Barrett, QB, Wichita Falls Rider - 4-star, No. 134 Rivals250, No. 26 LSR
J.J. Gustafson, OL, Dallas Jesuit - No. 20 LSR - Texas A&M commitment
Kenny Hill, QB, Southlake Carroll - 4-star, No. 165 Rivals250, No. 81 LSR
Stanvon Taylor, WR/DB, Tulsa (Okla.) East Central - 4-star, No. 188 Rivals250
Cody Thomas, QB, Colleyville Heritage - 4-star, No. 176 Rivals250, No. 14 LSR
James White, RB, Pearland Dawson - No. 24 LSR - Texas A&M commit
Ishmael Wilson, OL, Dallas Bishop Dunne - 4-star, No. 143 Rivals250, No. 19 LSR - Texas A&M commit
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Let’s take a look at the first Texas junior day of 2012. Texas hosted 12 prospects.. Texas offered 10 of the 11 uncommitted, unoffered prospects in Austin February 12. Since then fiveprospects have decided to join the fold and the Texas recruiting class is now sitting at six. That leaves six attendees from the first junior day uncommitted. Let’s take a look at each
Naashon Hughes, LB, Harker Heights - No. 60 LSR
Hughes continues to keep in touch with Texas. He is one to keep an eye on as defensive offers really begin to go out. Texas has talked to him about linebacker and safety, and are in very good standing with Hughes. He holds offers from LSU and South Carolina and plans to take visits to Oklahoma and LSU.
If Texas offers I would say the chances he ends up a Longhorn are strong. Right now I’ll say things are looking good at 65-percent as he waits for an offer.
Darius James, OL, Harker Heights - 4-star, No. 92 Rivals100, No. 8 LSR
On February 12, James left Austin with an offer. The Longhorns have been in good standing for a long time and the junior day certainly did not do anything to change that. He has visited TCU and plans to visit Oklahoma soon. There is a lot of talk and we’re hearing good things about where Texas stands in this one.
The feeling I get is Texas is the frontrunner right now. I’m not saying it’s a slam dunk but I think he ends up a Longhorn when it’s all said and done. Right now I’ll say another 65-percent
Justin Manning, DT, Dallas Kimball - 4-star, No. 89 Rivals100, No. 5 LSR
Manning is a guy the Longhorns do need to make up some ground. Texas A&M seems to be in a good position as does OU, where his brother Demarcus Granger played. Right now I think he’s a longhot to end up at Texas. At this point in the process, I’ll give the Longhorns a 25-percent chance they end up with Manning.
Ra’Shaad Samples, WR, Dallas Skyline - 4-star, No. 191 Rivals250, No. 18 LSR
There is no question the Longhorns made a good impression on the Skyline receiver. That said Samples has been pretty clear that he wants to check out his options before making a decision. This weekend he plans to head out to Texas Tech for their junior day.
I think when it’s all said and done Samples ends up in the burnt orange. I’ll say he’s about a 75-percent chance right now. I feel good about that one.
Durham Smythe, TE, Belton - No. 35 LSR
Smythe has seen his offer list grow more than anyone else who attended the first Texas junior day. He has added some of the nation’s top national powers and academics are sure to play a big part in his decision. He was at the Texas practice today and is planning to make it out to Stanford here soon.
Right now it looks like this one is coming down to Texas and Stanford, and I think the Longhorns pull out a win. I’ll say he’s at a 70-percent right now.
Dontre Wilson, RB, DeSoto - 4-star, No. 186 Rivals250, No. 10 LSR
I have a feeling it’s going to take a little while before Wilson is ready to make a decision. I’m thinking he could be the last of the first junior day targets to decide. He hopes to make it out to Oregon for an unofficial visit and continues to see the offers roll in. Texas is still in good standing with Wilson and high on his list.
I’ll say right now I feel good about things and I’ll give Wilson a 55-percent.(Howell)
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Bouncing back to football, a couple very brief notes after the Horns' first spring practice. Remember, the guys were in shorts and without pads on Thursday night, as they will be on Saturday, so things really won't get interesting until early next week.
We'll dig a little deeper when there's more to report, but a couple notes that stood out in our conversations on Thursday night.
" Brandon Moore didn't get the memo that the team wasn't in full pads. He was killing out there."
On the QBs ... "Actually, everyone had a good day." (Again, it's day one, pace yourself)
Overall ... (paraphrasing) The team is really in good shape. The guys say they can feel it when they hit people. (Suchomel)
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This week in recruiting… From A-to-Z in the Lone Star State
Sometimes there can be so much information flying by your eyes in any given week that you miss some of the small stuff. Knowing that, here’s a look at some notes to know from the Class of 2013 from this week, as compiled by the entire Rivals network.
a. Killeen Harker Heights offensive lineman Darius James picked up an offer from Oklahoma.
b. West Mesquite safety Kameron Miles (No.9 on the LSR) was offered by Vanderbilt and Stanford.
c. Bastrop cornerback Antwaun Davis (No.13 on the LSR) picked up offers from Notre Dame, Ole Miss, Alabama and Michigan.
d. Colleyville Heritage quarterback Cody Thomas (No.14 on the LSR) was offered by TCU, Virgina, UNC and Mich State this week to add to long list of offers.
e. Dallas Skyline wide receiver Ra’Shaad Samples (No.18 on the LSR) was offered by Oklahoma and Vanderbilt.
f. Dallas Jesuit offensive lineman J.J. Gustufson (No.20 on the LSR) committed to Texas A&M.
g. Dallas Skyline cornerback Will Barrow (No.21 on the LSR) committed to Texas Tech.
h. Wylie East wide receiver Marcell Ateman (No.25 on the LSR) picked up offers from Texas Tech, Illinois and Oklahoma State.
i. WF Rider quarterback J.T. Barrett (No.26 on the LSR) picked up offers from Ohio St., Baylor, and North Texas.
j. John Tyler wide receiver Fred Ross (no.27 on the LSR) was offered by Oklahoma State.
k. Livingston athlete Chevoski Collins (No.28 on the LSR) was offered by Utah.
l. Fort bend Marshall defensive end/linebacker Deon Hollins Jr. (No.32 on the LSR) was offered by Oklahoma, Utah, Colorado, Texas A&M, Notre Dame, West Virginia.
m. Sugar Land Dulles cornerback Maurice Smith (No.34 on the LSR) picked up offers from Nebraska, Oklahoma State and Arkansas.
n. Belton tight end Durham Smythe (No.35 on the LSR) picked up offers from Oklahoma State and Nebraska.
o. San Antonio Madison defensive tackle Vincent Taylor (No.36 on the LSR) defensive tackle Vincent Taylor was offered by Vanderbilt, Baylor, LSU and Texas Tech.
p. Denton Guyer wide receiver Ellis Jefferson (No.41 on the LSR) was offered by Mississippi State.
q. Wylie East wide receiver Vequan Jones (No.42 on the LSR) picked up an offer from Texas Tech.
r. Bastrop linebacker Paul Whitmill (No.44 on the LSR) picked up an offer from Arizona.
s. Plano Prestonwood tight end Christian Morgan (No.48 on the LSR) was offered by Washington and Texas Tech. He was also offered by SMU as a defensive end.
t. San Antonio Madison wide receiver Dannon Cavil (No.67 on the LSR) picked up an offer from Ole Miss.
u. Cy Woods linebacker Deoundrei Davis (No.68 on the LSR) picked up an offer from Texas A&M.
v. Dallas Jesuit linebacker Jordan Mastrogiovanni (No.73) picked up offers from SMU and Virginia.
w. Denton Guyer offensive guard Patrick Morris (No.89 on the LSR) picked up offers from Kansas, Northwestern, Texas Tech and Washington State.
x. Alief Taylor defensive end Torrodney Prevot picked up offers from Vanderbilt, Arizona State and Kansas.
y. Dallas Skyline linebacker Isaiah Williams picked up an offer from Colorado.
z. Sugar Land Elkins linebacker Keree Renchee has offers from Arkansas and Texas Tech. He is going to an Arkansas junior day on March 4.
This post was edited on 2/23 11:47 PM by DustinMcComas
This post was edited on 2/24 8:01 AM by Ketchum
This post was edited on 2/24 11:43 AM by Suchomel
Quarterback - Ash got the first-team reps today in practice and is the guy in front, even if Case McCoy starts some drills ahead of Ash. It's Ash's show. Case McCoy and Connor Brewer aren't going to lay back, though. The coaches want an intense battle. (A battle they'd love Ash to pull away and win.)
Running back - Mack says Joe Bergeron and Malcolm Brown are healthy and good to go. They've taken part in strength and conditioning but have been limited some in the 7 on 7 stuff in the off-season program. So this is good news. I ran the thought of Bergeron at FB by one of my sources inside the program, and that source laughed. "No. He proved he's a tailback. That's where he's working. Ryan Roberson is the fullback," the source said.
Receiver - The best news of the day is that Mike Davis seems rejuvenated. Mack talked about how Davis seemed "discouraged" at times last season but that he has done "everything right" in the off-season. (You'd probably be discouraged too if you roomed with Darius White last year.)
John Harris, who missed almost all of last season with a foot injury, is still limited right now but is expected back at full strength later in spring workouts. The coaches are high on Harris and can’t wait for him to get back on the field.
Marquise Goodwin will work some with the football team in the spring, although he Sheroid Evans and D.J. Monroe are all running track. All three are running track this weekend and will miss the first couple football practices (today and Saturday).
Miles Onyegbule is up to 228 pounds and is working some at WR as well as H-back and could grow right into a tight end. Mack said Jaxon Shipley's knee is fine and that Shipley is full go.
Tight end - Step front and center M.J. McFarland. He will be one of the more intriguing stories of the spring. Mack said McFarland performed well on scout team last year and that he's 260 pounds at 6-6 and gets to prove he can be an in-line blocker this season as a redshirt freshman.
Offensive line - Donald Hawkins got a look at left tackle when practices started today with Josh Cochran at right tackle. Trey Hopkins, as Orangebloods.com reported this week, has moved to left guard. Dominic Espinosa was at center with Mason Walters at right guard. Asked a source tonight if Hopkins will end up at left guard and was told it's way too early to tell. The coaches want Garrett Porter to push Espinosa at center, and Porter has had a great off-season.
The guard depth with Walters, Hopkins and Sedrick Flowers looks promising. The depth at tackle should be solid with Paden Kelley, Garrett Greenlea and possibly even Camrhon Hughes working his way into the rotation. Luke Poehlmann will work at OT, G and TE.
Defensive line - Brandon Moore got solid reviews from the coaches leading into spring practices today. So did Ashton Dorsey and Desmond Jackson. At defensive end, Alex Okafor needs to have a big spring from a leadership standpoint. Reggie Wilson needs to take advantage of the reps he’ll get with Jackson Jeffcoat out as does Cedric Reed.
Linebacker - This is going to be fun. Jordan Hicks can play all three LB positions, and Mack Brown hinted that Jordan may be moving to MLB. You’d think that’s Steve Edmond’s territory. Edmond has his weight down to 255 from 263. So the “gut” is getting smaller. Demarco Cobbs is going to be a great matchup against spread teams because of his speed. Mack even talked about Cobbs as a “hybrid nickel safety.” Edmond may be a guy who gets lots of time against downhill offenses like OU and K-State. When I asked Mack Brown about Tevin Jackson, he said the only guy who has established himself at LB is Jordan Hicks. “For everyone else, it’s a great opportunity,” he said.
Defensive back - Quandre Diggs and Carrington Byndom are your starting corners, and Kenny Vaccaro is a starting safety. You’d think Adrian Phillips will be the other starting safety, but Phillips is out for the spring (shoulder surgery).
So it’s a great chance for guys like Mykkele Thompson, Sheroid Evans and Josh Turner to show what they’ve got at safety. The coaches are high on Mykkele. He gets to practices early and stays late. Akina is looking for his best four and always cross trains corners at safety and vice versa. Mack said Sheroid Evans would work at CB and S as well as Josh Turner. Leroy Scott and A.J. White are also trying to break into the rotation.
Special teams - Will Russ looks like your punter for right now. David Ash is working some at punter as well, but most likely for situational pooch punts. In other words, if Ash ends up the team’s starting punter it would be a surprise.
Walk-on Ben Pruitt is going to get a long look at FG kicker before Nick Jordan and walk-on Nick Rose arrive in the summer.
There’s a new rule in college football for 2012: kickoffs are from the 35 and touchbacks come out to the 25. So coaches have to decide if they are going to squib more. The NCAA wants to limit the high-speed collisions on kickoffs.
Quandre Diggs and Jaxon Shipley give you options on punt returns. Diggs also figures to be involved in kick returns. (BROWN)
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I often get asked who could ever take over for DeLoss Dodds as athletic director when and if Dodds ever decides to retire?
Dodds is 72 and received a contract extension through Aug. 31, 2015 at a salary of $700,000. His new contract also includes a provision that after serving as AD, he could be employed part-time in a special role at UT through Aug. 31, 2020 with a salary of $100,000 plus benefits.
Well, keep an eye on Jim Baker, a longtime member of Dodds' staff in the athletic department, who just left to become AD at UT-Arlington. I was told the plan is to bring Baker back as AD at Texas in the fall of 2015 (as long as Baker rocks the house at UTA) and would then have Dodds serving as an adviser/consultant to Baker through 2020.
Baker has established relationships at UT with the administration and boosters and is a trusted member of Dodds' inner circle. File that one away. (BROWN)
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Moving on to recruiting ...
Belton tight end Durham Smythe, who picked up an offer at UT's first junior day, was at the Horns' initial practice of the spring season on Thursday.
We were able to get a quick comment from Smythe on the visit.
"The overall atmosphere was very comfortable and there was a genuine sense of confidence surrounding the team," Smythe said.
We weren't able to collect further details, but the thought is that Texas is still in a solid position with Smythe, one of the country's hottest prospects of late. Smythe continues to pick up offers on a daily basis. As of right now, he's still scheduled to visit Stanford on March 3. (Suchomel)
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Texas reached out to the Rossville (Ga.) Ridgeland coaching staff on Wednesday to express an interest in safety Vonn Bell. On Thursday, per Duane Akina's request, Bell got in touch with Akina to touch base. Actually, he called Akina twice.
Bell and Akina had an initial conversation getting to know one another and then Bell later called Akina back to get some clarification on whether or not he had a verbal offer from UT (he was told that he did ... but as always, nothing's official until a player meets with Mack Brown)
"I just got off the phone with him," Bell told us shortly after hanging up with Akina. "He was telling me about how he's the DB coach, who they have in the NFL, things like that. It was good. We're just trying to get to know each other right now."
Bell spent a few years in Dallas (he moved to Chattanooga in the first grade) and he still has family in the Metroplex.
"I know a lot about (Texas). Everything's good. They're a Big 12 school that's on my list. I have an offer from another Big 12 school (Oklahoma State) and now Texas, so we'll see what happens."
Akina talked to Bell about coming to Austin for a visit. The 6-1, 190-pound prospect said he'd have to talk to his family and his coaches, but a stop in Austin this spring or summer is something he would like to consider.
"He was talking to me about me seeing the campus and meeting everyone there. I just have to talk to everybody to see," Bell said. "We're going to stay in touch, build a relationship. They're not going to offer many DBs, so we'll just have to see what happens."
Bell has offers from the likes of Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Ole Miss, Oklahoma State, Tennessee, UCLA and Vanderbilt. He visited Alabama last week and will visit Auburn this week. There's a lot of talk that the SEC schools hold the inside track (mainly, Bama) but Bell said he's keeping an open mind.
"I don't really have any leaders. I'm just going to wait until I visit everybody, see what they have to offer, talk to my family and see what happens," Bell said.
We'll stay on top of this one to see if Texas can get Bell in town for a visit. (Suchomel)
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Another out-of-state update, this time on Ft. Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas DE Joey Bosa.
In case you missed it, Bosa talked to UT earlier this week.
On the surface, this one may seem like a longshot, but we can say with confidence that Bosa has a strong interest in the Longhorns and he's the one who actually set the wheels in motion on the conversation with the UT staff. Does that mean Texas can win him over? We'll see, but this one has the feel of being more than just fleeting interest. The problem? Alabama is thought to be in the lead, with Wisconsin and Ohio State also high on the list. Bosa is also "looking into" Florida and Florida State, although he said the out-of-state schools on his list are currently out in front.
The No. 14-ranked player on the Rivals100, Bosa said he didn't want to insert Texas into his pecking order without UT having offered, but I did ask him if Texas would factor in his list top-5 if the coaches offered.
"I'd say they would be," Bosa said.
The UT coaches told Bosa they'd follow up on their initial conversation soon. We'll stay in touch. (Suchomel)
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I was able to talk to a little birdie really dialed into recruiting in the Sunshine State about Dr. Phillips (Florida) stud safety Marcell Harris. Harris, who is rated as the No. 39 prospect overall in the 2013 Rivals100, was a potential early commitment candidate for Florida at the Gators’ first junior day. However, Harris might be a little more open than people think, despite the fact that his dad played for the Gators in the 90’s. The 6-2, 205 pound defensive back seems pretty set on taking some visits and might be a little more open than people think.
The best part for Texas fans is that according the source I spoke with tonight, Texas is second on Harris’ list behind Florida right now. Again, the Gators are thought to be the heavy lean team, but it seems odd that Florida already took two safeties and that Harris is pretty set on taking visits. This will be one to follow because it could get interesting.
Harris is scheduled to be in Tallahassee for Florida State’s junior day this weekend, but it doesn’t feel like the Sunshine State Seminoles or Hurricanes are in as good of shape as Florida, Texas, and then the likes of Ohio State and Notre Dame.(McComas)
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One player on which we'll be keeping a close eye this weekend is Alief Taylor DE Torrodney Prevot.
The 6-4, 220-pound standout has picked up a bunch of offers of late (including invitations from the likes of LSU, Texas A&M and OU).
He told us this week his decision will likely come down to how he feels he'll fit in each university's community. Does he want to be somewhere that's more rural, or does he want to be in a bigger city (like Austin)?
Prevot really likes Texas - "It's just the burnt orange. It really gets me. The Longhorns have always been a big asset to me," he said - but he did say this week that he's pretty sure he will not commit this weekend if a Texas offer is presented.
"I'm pretty dead set that I'm going to wait," Prevot said.
We've heard that before from players, only to see their tune change once they get on campus. We'll keep you all posted on this one. (Suchomel)
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A quick note on Bastrop CB Antwuan Davis, who will be in Austin for a portion of Saturday's junior day.
Davis is coming off a back injury that ended his 2011 season, but he's fully recovered. In fact, Davis said he could have come back before his junior season ended.
"I'm definitely 100 percent. I'm doing the track thing now. I got back to 100 percent at the beginning of the year. I went to a specialist, an actual sports specialist, and he said I could have just missed a couple games and come back. I was fully released around January," Davis said.
Should Texas offer Davis this weekend, or at some point down the road, the Longhorns should be in good position.
"I really like coach Akina. I like what he does with his DBs. He has this secret that he does with his DBs to get them in the NFL," Davis said. "I want that secret." (Suchomel)
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We caught up with another top out-of-state target, Tulsa East Central CB/WR Stanvon Taylor, to get an update.
"(On Wednesday), one of my coaches called me into his classroom. I had been hearing from other people that Texas was interested. But I hadn't heard anything since yesterday," Taylor said. "I talked to coach Akina and he was telling me he watched film, liked how I play and he's highly interested in me."
Taylor was invited to UT's junior day this weekend but he has a basketball and will not be able to attend. Texas is going to send him some paperwork and the possibility of getting Taylor in this spring for an unofficial visit has already been discussed.
"He's going to send me their practice schedule. He wants me to set up a date when I can get down there for a visit," Taylor said.
So what does Taylor know about Texas at this stage of the recruiting process?
"I like the fact that they win. I've only been playing football since sixth grade. Since I started watching them, I know they have good program there," Taylor said. "I have heard from people who are older who took visits there, it's a really nice place. I had always been thinking about them, just waiting for them to come up where they'd be interested. Now they are so I definitely want to get down there for a visit."
Taylor has actually known Demarco Cobbs for a couple years, and the friendship has an interesting origination. Cobbs, out of Tulsa Central, was well known in Tulsa coming out of high school. He was friends with a girl at Taylor's school when Taylor was a freshman, so the two got to know each other.
"He was always around my school. He talked to me, gave me advice on anything. I talked to him about three weeks ago and he told me Texas was interested in me," Taylor said.
Taylor does not have any official favorites, but he did say he wants to stay somewhat close to home.
"My mom, she doesn't want me going too far. I want to go to school around here somewhere. Texas isn't too far. It's not very far away," Taylor said. "And it's a powerhouse. I want to go to a school that's good at football, takes it seriously, where I can get better and hopefully get ready for the next level." (Suchomel)
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On Wednesday, Ricky Seals-Jones committed to Texas, becoming the sixth commitment of the Longhorns’ 2013 recruiting class.
He enters the class ranked amongst the top prospects in the country, but it did not take any rankings or anything for people around Sealy to realize he was a special talent.
When Sealy head coach Jimmie Mitchell first saw Ricky Seals-Jones as a seventh grade quarterback, he knew Seals-Jones had immense potential. In fact when Ricky was a freshman he let his budding talent know just how special he had the chance to be.
“Coach Mitchell called me into his office and told me if you keep working hard you’ll be able to go to a big school and do big things,” Seals-Jones said.
That was when Ricky first realized he had the chance to realize his dreams.
Seals-Jones was not any normal freshman though. Not only was he the Sealy Tigers starting varsity safety, but he was second-team all-district. Following his freshman year the secret was out, and parents Buffy and Chester Jones knew their son was gifted.
“When he came out his freshman year and they put him on the varsity and he held his ground, and then his sophomore year he just excelled,” Chester Jones said. “Then this summer I knew he was going to be something special.”
As a sophomore, Seals-Jones was first-team all-district at both wide receiver and safety, and word was spreading like wildfire about the 6-5, 215-pound talent down in Sealy, Texas. By that summer, his phone was ringing off the hook and his head was spinning.
“A lot of phone calls ? late night phone calls, early morning phone calls,” Seals-Jones said. “You kind of deny them and don’t pick up. You have to press the decline button. You have school work and practice and all that. There’s a lot going on but you have to adapt and overcome.”
Jones and his family did adapt. Both parents helped take on some of the phone calls, and after another standout season as a junior it was much needed with calls, mail, and scholarship offers coming from all across the country.
Throughout the recruiting process he leaned on his family - is mom and dad and his brother. He sought advice from coach Mitchell. He also had his cousin, Hall of Fame running back Eric Dickerson, who may be one of the few people who can understand what he is going through.
“We talked a few times, but not that much. Just about how he liked it in college and he told me what to look for and to make sure it’s the right place for me and to not get forced into doing anything I don’t want to,” Seals-Jones said of Dickerson. “Other than that I haven’t really talked to him about it.”
Coach Mitchell’s office became a regular stop for the nation’s elite programs, his phone was also ringing off the hook and his email inbox was full. No doubt about it Ricky was a big deal, and it was not a question of if he would play college ball, but where.
The remarkable thing though is Seals-Jones never quit working and never let all of the attention go to his head. He often declined post-game interview requests to give his teammates a chance to speak. When the recruiting process started he would tell coaches he would play anywhere he could help the team before coach Mitchell let him know it was ok to say the position he really wanted to play.
Shoot I even have a Ricky Seals-Jones story. I did Ricky’s first interview for Rivals.com and when I talked to him yesterday he was the same humble, yes sir, no sir kid I talked to at the beginning.
By the time junior day rolled around it was already beginning to leak that this was a Texas/LSU recruiting battle. He attended the junior day at LSU February 4 and then he went to Texas February 12.
By now it has been well chronicled that on the way back from Texas he pretty much knew he was going to be a Longhorn. So what was it about the junior day that put the Longhorns over the top?
“Just talking to the coaches and the players and looking at their campus and the dorm rooms, it just felt like it was home,” Seals-Jones said.
So on Wednesday Seals-Jones let the Longhorns know he was ready to commit, and he received a very warm reception from the Texas staff.
“All the coaches were real excited,” Chester Jones said. “We talked to three coaches ? the receivers coach, Mack, and coach Giles. They’re real excited up there and they’re probably jumping and hollering now that they got him.”
And with the decision made, the family was able to breathe a little easier.
“I’m just relieved its over,” Chester Jones said. “As long as he’s happy I’m happy. I think he made a real good choice.”
Seals-Jones now plans to focus on the basketball playoffs and then getting ready for his senior football season. At Texas he will start off at receiver. He has not really talked much about basketball with the Longhorns and plans to focus on football on the college level.
Among the reasons Seals-Jones mentioned choosing the Longhorns was the education offered at the University of Texas, and he already has an idea about what he would like to study.
“Probably business, I’ll probably just own my own company, or if I don’t do that I’m sure Texas will help me find something I do like if that doesn’t work out,” Seals-Jones said. (Howell)
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Feb. 25 Confirmed Invites (by name)
George Baltimore, S, Mansfield - No. 37 LSR
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: No; Commitment: No - I’m a fan of Baltimore’s skill set and I think he has a chance to be an outstanding college player, but I just haven’t picked up a vibe that Duane Akina is ready to get jiggy with his offers.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Baltimore was invited a while back but he's never fully confirmed that he's going to attend. Texas is being very selective in the secondary so I doubt he gets an offer.
Dustin McComas: Offer: No; Commitment: No - While it feels like the Longhorns are interested, Baltimore is likely behind some others on the big board.
Jason Howell: Offer: NO; Commitment: NO - There is no doubt George Baltimore is among the top safeties in Texas. He already has offers from Baylor, Michigan St., and Texas Tech. He is planning to attend the Texas junior day and I think Texas, who is not giving out a ton of offers, holds off on an offer for right now. He is a guy to watch in the future.
Travon Blanchard, LB, West Orange-Stark - No. 61 LSR - Baylor commit
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Blanchard is not in line for an offer this weekend, but I have to believe they’d love to have him at their camp this summer.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: No; Commitment: No - This is going to be a common theme, but UT's numbers are very tight on defense and the staff plans to take its time. I'm expecting that the coaches will continue to monitor this speedster.
Dustin McComas: Offer: No; Commitment: No - A Texas offer would likely make things interesting for the Baylor commit, but I don’t think he gets one. Texas is being stingy with its defensive offers.
Jason Howell: Offer: NO; Commitment: NO - Blanchard is already a Baylor commitment, but he is definitely a linebacker worth a look. He is on the skinny side, but he is fast and he can cover some space. Right now I’m leaning more toward the no offer, but he is a guy Texas will be keeping in touch with over the next few months.
Chevoski Collins, ATH, Livingston - No. 28 LSR
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Collins was a star at the Texas camp this year and he might have to do it again this summer to receive an offer because of the tight numbers.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Texas appears to be looking at Collins as a DB (although he could certainly play at WR also), and he's another that will probably require further evaluation.
Dustin McComas: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Collins feels like a guy that is right on the cusp of receiving an offer, but isn’t quite there yet. If he got offered, he’d likely pull the trigger, but I don’t think that offer comes this weekend.
Jason Howell: Offer: NO; Commitment: NO - When Chevoski Collins was added to this list I was so happy to see it. He can play on either side of the ball at receiver or DB. I think Texas holds off for now with a few offers already out at receiver and with evaluations on going at defensive back. He’s a guy who has expressed a lot of interest in the Longhorns and had a great camp at UT this summer so this could be a surprise offer. We’ll see how it shakes out but right now I’m leaning towards a no.
Antwuan Davis, CB, Bastrop - 4-star, No. 171 Rivals250, No. 13 LSR
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: No; Commitment: No - I have to believe Davis would love an offer this weekend and he’s feeling the love from a lot of schools, but I don’t see the offer happening yet.
Jason Suchomel: No; Commitment: No - Davis is a terrific prospect and he has a lot of schools after him, but my guess is that UT will watch him this spring. Davis is fully recovered from some injury issues of 2011 but the coaches will probably want to see him in action.
Dustin McComas: Offer: No; Commitment: No - After Davis’ injury-filled season, it’s tough to expect an offer for the local product despite his outstanding talent.
Jason Howell: Offer: NO; Commitment: NO - If Davis was not coming off an injury we might be talking about commitment No. 7. When healthy he is without a doubt one of the most athletic prospects in the state. He looks the part and he tests off the chart. I think Texas lets him know they are very, very interested but they hold off on offering until he has a chance to show what he can do in the spring.
Austin Davis, OL, Mansfield
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: No; Commitment: No - The Longhorns have their eyes set on other line candidates at this point.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Davis is a pure center prospect but you have to think that Texas will wait on some other interior line prospects (mainly Darius James) before making a move here.
Dustin McComas: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Davis could be in that second group of offensive linemen that the Horns like if their other options look elsewhere.
Jason Howell: Offer: NO; Commitment: NO - Davis is an interior offensive line prospect and has been a strong presence along the offensive front for Mansfield. I don’t see a Texas offer coming his way right now.
Deoundrei Davis, LB, Cypress Woods - No. 68 LSR
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: No; Commitment: No - I’m tempted to say that he receives an offer this weekend because his stock is white hot and his film suggests he’s seriously underrated, but his name is not one of the names I’ve heard in the discussion for linebacker offers
Jason Suchomel: Offer: Yes; Commitment: No - This one's tough to call. Again, the numbers are very tight at LB so I could see Texas holding off, but I love Davis' athleticism and my gut says there's a chance he gets one of the first LB offers.
Dustin McComas: Offer: Yes; Commitment: No - His stock is red-hot right now, and the Horns seem pretty interested. Although a Texas offer probably puts the Horns near the top, if not on the top, of the list, I think that Davis holds off on a commitment somewhere because all of this is so new to him still.
Jason Howell: Offer: YES; Commitment: NO - There are not many prospects hotter in the state right now. He has seen his offer list grow since his highlight tape has hit the colleges. I’ll get right to it I think Texas offers, and I think they make a big impression. He may be a guy who commits later in the week, but I think he holds off on Saturday.
Jeremiah Gaines, TE, Red Oak - No. 54 LSR
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: No; Commitment: No -The Longhorns aren’t extending another in-state offer at the position until they know what’s up with Durham Smythe.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Texas has a guy like Durham Smythe ahead of Gaines on the list right now, so I expect the staff to stand pat for a while.
Dustin McComas: Offer: No; Commitment: No - The Horns want to make sure they add a good tight end to this class, but the first option remains Smythe.
Jason Howell: Offer: NO; Commitment: NO - This is a guy I like a lot. Gaines can do a lot of things. He can flex out at tight end. He can line up in the backfield as a fullback. He isn’t the 6-5 guy but he is a versatile big guy who can do a lot of things really well. I wouldn’t be surprised if he was offered, but I’m leaning towards a no right now. Numbers are tight and I get the feeling he is a guy Texas continues to show a lot of interest in and continues to evaluate.
Trent Gow, TE, Mansfield
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: No; Commitment: No - See Gaines.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: No; Commitment: No - His situation is much like Gaines. He's a guy that will probably be evaluated further this spring and maybe into the summer.
Dustin McComas: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Like Gaines, Gow is probably a player the Horns like but isn’t in a position to receive an offer right now because he’s behind Smythe on the board.
Jason Howell: Offer: NO; Commitment: NO - Like Gaines, Gow is a guy who can do a lot of things for you at tight end. He can line up at a lot of spots on the field and give you an athletic, physical presence with the ability to be counted on to make a play with the ball in his hands. I do not see an offer coming at this point.
Daeshon Hall, DE, Lancaster
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: No; Commitment: No - I haven’t heard his name among those in the mix for offers yet.
Jason Suchomel: No; Commitment: No - He's still not sure if he'll make it in. If he does, he's an intriguing prospect but my gut says Texas evaluates him further into the spring and/or summer.
Dustin McComas: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Hall is a new name on the scene, and probably a "high follow" prospect that Texas wants to keep an eye on.
Jason Howell: Offer: NO; Commitment: NO - This guys film is impressive. He was a move-in from Washington and is also a standout basketball player. He has already picked up a number of offers and he very well could be a guy who leaves with an offer if he is on hand for Saturday. Basketball could make it hard for him to get down to Austin, but he’s going to try to make it if he can. I say Texas continues to evaluate but I wouldn’t argue if they decided to offer. Either way I think he holds off on a commitment.
Deon Hollins, Jr., DE, Fort Bend Marshall - No. 32 LSR
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: Yes; Commitment: Yes - It’s possible that Hollins and Mike Mitchell are in contention for the same offer/slot in this class, but Hollins is a rare player on the edge. Call this a stab in the dark on my part.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: Yes; Commitment: No - Another one that's tough to call. Hollins' speed off the edge is impressive and I could see him getting an offer this weekend. If he does, it's another tough call as to whether or not he'd commit.
Dustin McComas: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Texas is interested, but I think it’s going to be selective at the DE spot. Plus, I think Prevot gets the offer and not Hollins.
Jason Howell: Offer: YES; Commitment: NO - I do not care if he is undersized. I like this guy. Coming off the edge he has a quick, explosive first step. He consistently takes on and beats bigger competition. He uses his hands well and he’s the kind of guy who gets to the QB in a hurry. Texas has been looking at him for a long time and I think being seen by coach Giles so much definitely helps. I say he leaves Texas with an offer. I do think he holds off on a commitment. I see Texas making a big impression but I think he takes some time to think things over and maybe take a few more visits.
Colin Janice, S, West Orange-Stark - No. 77 LSR
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: No; Commitment: No - I think Akina will want to see Janice at the summer camp, if possible.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: No; Commitment: No - A terrific athlete, Janice is another that will probably receive further evaluation due to very tight numbers in the secondary.
Dustin McComas: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Another player that Texas is interested in, but is down on the board some behind others at the same position.
Jason Howell: Offer: NO; Commitment: NO - The biggest knock on Janice was his size. If he comes in at a legitimate 5-11, this could get real interesting real quick. We’ll see what happens but I think Texas holds off on things for now.
Ellis “E.J.” Jefferson, WR, Denton Guyer - No. 41 LSR
Jason Suchomel: Offer: No; Commitment: No - I expect Texas to continue to monitor some other prospects at the position and with a commitment already in the fold from Jake Oliver, there’s no need to rush at yet another position with pretty tight numbers.
Dustin McComas: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Jefferson is an intriguing prospect, but he, like other receivers scheduled to be at this junior day, is probably in that second tier of wideouts behind those that have already committed or received offers from Texas.
Jason Howell: Offer: NO; Commitment: NO - Jefferson is a guy who could get one down the road, but right now scholarship numbers are tight and I think the Longhorns continue to evaluate him.
Eldridge Massington, WR, West Mesquite - 4-star, No. 245 Rivals250, No. 46 LSR
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: No; Commitment: No - He’s on the radar, but the coaches will likely wait on Ra’Shaad Samples before they do anything else. I’m of the opinion that the wide receivers offers might be done at this point.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: No; Commitment: No - With commitments from Jake Oliver and Ricky Seals-Jones, plus an offer out to Ra'Shaad Samples, I don't see Massington getting an offer at this early stage.
Dustin McComas: Offer: No; Commitment: No - With a commitments already from Jake Oliver, Ricky Seals-Jones and an offer out to Ra’shaad Samples, Texas appears to be pretty set at the receiver spot.
Jason Howell: Offer: NO; Commitment: NO - Massington has been another hot prospect and the offers have been coming in from all over. In a normal year I think Texas would probably offer, but right now I think they hold off. He is definitely a guy to keep an eye on down the road though.
Kameron Miles, S, West Mesquite - 4-star, No. 86 Rivals100, No. 9 LSR
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: No; Commitment: No - If it were me, I’d offer, but it’s not me and like I’ve said time and time again, Akina isn’t approaching this weekend with his foot on the brake per my sources.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: No; Commitment: No - This is one of the tougher ones to predict because I could certainly see him getting an offer. But with Texas looking at some top out-of-state talent, my gut tells me the coaches hold off.
Dustin McComas: Offer: Yes; Commitment: No ? Miles is probably the best player in the state and offer worthy, but with so much interest from other programs, I’d bet he doesn’t pull the trigger.
Jason Howell: Offer: YES; Commitment: NO - While Massington may not receive an offer I think Miles does receive one. He is a big, physical safety who hits a ton and can cover. He’s my No. 1 safety right now and I think Texas goes ahead and pulls the trigger on an offer. Miles does like Texas, but he has a lot of schools he is interested in. I think Texas picks up a lot of ground and makes it hard for him not to decide. I think he waits before making a decision.
Mike Mitchell, LB, Plano Prestonwood - No. 23 LSR
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: No; Commitment: No - I know everyone is expecting an offer and it could happen, but I think Hollins is going to be the guy they choose to offer.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Another intriguing prospect who I believe is right there in the mix, but my guess is that Texas carries out its evaluations a little further due to tight numbers.
Dustin McComas: Offer: No; Commitment: No - This is one of the toughest ones on the list for me to predict because I think Mitchell could very well get an offer and could commit. However, I still say that the offers to defensive players will be limited, and I’d put Davis in front of Mitchell.
Jason Howell: Offer: NO; Commitment: NO - This is one I could very easily see going either way. He does like Texas. The Longhorns are high on his list. He has picked up quite a few offers recently and has some big players coming in on him right now. I could very easily see him getting an offer. I’m going with no offer right now, but I wouldn’t be surprised if one found its way to him soon. Right now I predict no offer and no commit.
Patrick Morris, OL, Denton Guyer - No. 89 LSR
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: No; Commitment: No - There’s only one offensive line offer going out this week.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: No; Commitment: No - The offensive line numbers are tough to predict with so much flexibility from guys like Jake Raulerson and A'Shawn Robinson. But I think Morris is a guy who will be evaluated further.
Dustin McComas: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Morris is what I’d refer to as a “follow guy,” which means he’s not quite talented enough to receive an offer, but could turn into an intriguing prospect with some work.
Jason Howell: Offer: NO; Commitment: NO - Mean, mean, mean, mean, mean, mean. If you don’t like this kid’s style of play, you just don’t like football. I think he is a lot closer to receiving an offer than some may think. He’s an interior line prospect and he likes to grind. I think coach Searels is going to love the attitude. Right now I’m leaning towards a no. I see him as a guy Texas keeps a close eye on though and I could see one coming his way eventually.
Kent Perkins, OL, Dallas Lake Highlands - 4-star, No. 25 Rivals100, No. 3 LSR
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: Yes; Commitment: Yes - He’s a slam dunk for an offer and I’ll wager he either commits this weekend or in the following week.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: Yes; Commitment: Yes - Perkins has said publicly that he'll probably wait things out a bit, but Texas is very high on his list so a commit would not be a surprise at all.
Dustin McComas: Offer: Yes; Commitment: Yes - It feels like Perkins has narrowed his recruiting list down for a long time, and even when I talked to him during the fall he had it at three schools. Although he may be an Aggie lean, not pulling the trigger already means that he’s a prime candidate to do that this weekend. Again, Perkins seems like a guy that’s wanted to end the recruiting process with an idea of where he wants to go for some time. I think that’s Texas.
Jason Howell: Offer: YES; Commitment: NO - If there was a guy I felt was assured of an offer it’s Perkins. The Lake Highlands standout was invited to the first Texas junior day and is regarded as one of the top offensive tackles in the country. He gets an offer before leaving. With the offer in hand, I could see a commitment coming, but I’m going to say he holds off for now. He will be one to keep a close eye on though.
Torrodney Prevot, DE, Alief Taylor
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: Yes; Commitment: No - I’m tempted to say that he commits this weekend, but Suchomel believes he won’t, so I’m leaning on his opinion on this particular case.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: Yes; Commitment: No - His stock is sky high and he's been told he has a good chance for an offer. Prevot has said he's pretty well "dead set" on waiting things out a bit, but he likes Texas a lot.
Dustin McComas: Offer: Yes; Commitment: Yes - Prevot’s stock is on fire, and that speed off the edge is something that defensive coordinators drool about. I think Texas jumps in, offers him, and gets him to pull the trigger.
Jason Howell: Offer: YES; Commitment: NO - The Prevot train has been running full steam ahead picking up offers from just about everywhere. I’d say he’s probably the hottest prospect in Texas right now. I say the Longhorns offer. I think he takes his time though.
Robbie Rhodes, WR, Fort Worth Southwest - No. 33 LSR
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: No; Commitment: No - The coaches really like him, but even if he makes it in, they need to see what happens with Samples first.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Rhodes is not expected in, otherwise he'd be a very strong candidate for an offer
Dustin McComas: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Like the case with Massington, Texas appears to be waiting on Samples to close up the receiver position.
Jason Howell: Offer: NO; Commitment: NO - Rhodes is another prospect who may not make it down due to basketball. If he does make it he is a serious candidate for an offer. Numbers are tight and I think he probably leaves without an offer, but he is on the cusp of it.
Christopher Robinson, DT, Shreveport (La.) Woodlawn - 4-star, No. 229 Rivals250
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: No; Commitment: No - I haven’t heard that his name in the offer discussion.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Texas' numbers at DT are paper thin so I doubt an offer happens on this one.
Dustin McComas: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Robinson is likely behind some defensive tackles, and Texas already has a commitment from A’shawn Robinson, who could play DT.
Jason Howell: Offer: NO; Commitment: NO - This one is tough for me, but I’m going to say he does not get an offer. There is no doubt Robinson loves Texas, and there’s no doubt the Longhorns are interested. Texas has already worked with him at camp and there is a strong tie to Bo Davis. Right now I think he does not receive an offer.
Maurice Smith, CB, Fort Bend Dulles - No. 34 LSR
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: Yes; Commitment: Yes - I’ve decided that this kid’s rise up the rankings concludes with an offer this weekend and I’m going to go on a limb and say he commits. I could be way off-base here and Akina could simply not offer anyone at all this weekend, but this kid looks like a guy you need to offer.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: No; Commitment: No - One of the tougher ones to call from this weekend. My guess is that Smith is on the fringe for a possible offer but Duane Akina is going to be very selective.
Dustin McComas: Offer: Yes; Commitment: No - Texas has had some recent success at Dulles with Sheroid Evans, and Smith’s film screams “offer.” The big-time offers seem like a new feeling for him, and although the Horns are the dream school, I think it takes him a little bit of time before he commits.
Jason Howell: Offer: YES; Commitment: YES - Texas first got a glimpse of Smith while recruiting Sheroid Evans. They have been keeping an eye on him and I say the Longhorns offer. He has been taking his time, but Texas could change that up. I think he gets the offer and becomes a Longhorn.
Vincent Taylor, DT, San Antonio Madison - 4-star, No. 233 Rivals250, No. 36 LSR
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Nothing has changed between the first Junior Day and now that would change his offer status.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: No; Commitment: No - He's an intriguing one because he was invited to the first junior day, but I just think Texas plans to be incredibly patient with its defensive offers.
Dustin McComas: Offer: Yes; Commitment: No - Originally, Taylor was supposed to be at the first junior day, and I’m sticking to my prediction then that he gets an offer but the Horns would have to beat out LSU, which means no commitment.
Jason Howell: Offer: NO; Commitment: NO - Right now I think Texas holds off on the offer here. He’s a guy I believe Texas will continue to evaluate, but right now I think they wait a little while longer before making a decision.
Josh Thomas, OL, Shreveport (La.) Evangel Christian
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: No; Commitment: No - He might eventually be in line for an offer, but I don’t think the staff is ready to overextend their line numbers.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Thomas camped at UT last year but the guess here is that the coaches try to lock up some other OL prospects first.
Dustin McComas: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Thomas would jump on an offer, in my opinion, but the big fella is behind James and Perkins on the list.
Jason Howell: Offer: NO; Commitment: NO - Coach Searels was able to work with Thomas at the camp and the big guy was definitely impressed with Texas. The Longhorns are high on his list, but I think Texas continues to evaluate things with a few other offensive line offers out there.
Brett Wade, LB, Kennedale - 4-star, No. 239 Rivals250, No. 29 LSR
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: No; Commitment: No - I’ve heard he’s approved for an offer from a talent standpoint, so he could receive an offer, but I’m going to suggest it doesn’t happen quite yet. I’m feeling about 65% on this one.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: No; Commitment: No - He's in a pretty crowded group of linebackers vying for very few spots. He's been on UT's list for a while, but I expect Manny Diaz to hold off.
Dustn McComas: Offer: No; Commitment: No - Wade was originally a big A&M lean, and it doesn’t feel like Texas has recruited him with a ton of emphasis yet.
Jason Howell: Offer: NO; Commitment: NO - Wade really burst onto the scene and is one of the top linebackers in the state. He’s in that mix with Mike Mitchell and a few others who very well could leave this weekend with an offer. I’m leaning towards no offer right now though.
Jacorey Warrick, CB, Cypress Falls - No. 31 LSR
Geoff Ketchum: Offer: Yes; Commitment: Yes - This is a kid that could play on either side of the ball and he possesses the type of speed the coaches don’t seem to want to turn down these days.
Jason Suchomel: Offer: Yes; Commitment: Yes - The Texas coaches love this kid's versatility and he's the type that would fit in well with the UT program as a player and in the locker room.
Dustin McComas: Offer: No; Commitment: No ? I don’t think Texas can make up its mind with Warrick, who it likes as a corner a little more than a receiver. The interest is there, but it hasn’t been quite sincere enough on a consistent basis to make me think he gets an offer.
Jason Howell: Offer: YES; Commitment: YES - Warrick has shown himself to be one of the top athletes in the state. He played receiver all year for Cy Falls, but at the Texas camp he was a standout defensive back. Texas likes him on defense and I think they’ve seen enough to go ahead with the offer. Warrick grew up liking the Longhorns and I think it’s hard for him to say no. I think he leaves Austin a Longhorn.
Attendance Doubtful
Kerrick Huggins, DT, Dallas Skyline - 4-star, No. 154 Rivals250, No. 46 Rivals250 - Texas A&M commit
D.J. Ward, DE, Lawton, Okla. - 4-star, No. 99 Rivals100
Not Attending
J.T. Barrett, QB, Wichita Falls Rider - 4-star, No. 134 Rivals250, No. 26 LSR
J.J. Gustafson, OL, Dallas Jesuit - No. 20 LSR - Texas A&M commitment
Kenny Hill, QB, Southlake Carroll - 4-star, No. 165 Rivals250, No. 81 LSR
Stanvon Taylor, WR/DB, Tulsa (Okla.) East Central - 4-star, No. 188 Rivals250
Cody Thomas, QB, Colleyville Heritage - 4-star, No. 176 Rivals250, No. 14 LSR
James White, RB, Pearland Dawson - No. 24 LSR - Texas A&M commit
Ishmael Wilson, OL, Dallas Bishop Dunne - 4-star, No. 143 Rivals250, No. 19 LSR - Texas A&M commit
******
Let’s take a look at the first Texas junior day of 2012. Texas hosted 12 prospects.. Texas offered 10 of the 11 uncommitted, unoffered prospects in Austin February 12. Since then fiveprospects have decided to join the fold and the Texas recruiting class is now sitting at six. That leaves six attendees from the first junior day uncommitted. Let’s take a look at each
Naashon Hughes, LB, Harker Heights - No. 60 LSR
Hughes continues to keep in touch with Texas. He is one to keep an eye on as defensive offers really begin to go out. Texas has talked to him about linebacker and safety, and are in very good standing with Hughes. He holds offers from LSU and South Carolina and plans to take visits to Oklahoma and LSU.
If Texas offers I would say the chances he ends up a Longhorn are strong. Right now I’ll say things are looking good at 65-percent as he waits for an offer.
Darius James, OL, Harker Heights - 4-star, No. 92 Rivals100, No. 8 LSR
On February 12, James left Austin with an offer. The Longhorns have been in good standing for a long time and the junior day certainly did not do anything to change that. He has visited TCU and plans to visit Oklahoma soon. There is a lot of talk and we’re hearing good things about where Texas stands in this one.
The feeling I get is Texas is the frontrunner right now. I’m not saying it’s a slam dunk but I think he ends up a Longhorn when it’s all said and done. Right now I’ll say another 65-percent
Justin Manning, DT, Dallas Kimball - 4-star, No. 89 Rivals100, No. 5 LSR
Manning is a guy the Longhorns do need to make up some ground. Texas A&M seems to be in a good position as does OU, where his brother Demarcus Granger played. Right now I think he’s a longhot to end up at Texas. At this point in the process, I’ll give the Longhorns a 25-percent chance they end up with Manning.
Ra’Shaad Samples, WR, Dallas Skyline - 4-star, No. 191 Rivals250, No. 18 LSR
There is no question the Longhorns made a good impression on the Skyline receiver. That said Samples has been pretty clear that he wants to check out his options before making a decision. This weekend he plans to head out to Texas Tech for their junior day.
I think when it’s all said and done Samples ends up in the burnt orange. I’ll say he’s about a 75-percent chance right now. I feel good about that one.
Durham Smythe, TE, Belton - No. 35 LSR
Smythe has seen his offer list grow more than anyone else who attended the first Texas junior day. He has added some of the nation’s top national powers and academics are sure to play a big part in his decision. He was at the Texas practice today and is planning to make it out to Stanford here soon.
Right now it looks like this one is coming down to Texas and Stanford, and I think the Longhorns pull out a win. I’ll say he’s at a 70-percent right now.
Dontre Wilson, RB, DeSoto - 4-star, No. 186 Rivals250, No. 10 LSR
I have a feeling it’s going to take a little while before Wilson is ready to make a decision. I’m thinking he could be the last of the first junior day targets to decide. He hopes to make it out to Oregon for an unofficial visit and continues to see the offers roll in. Texas is still in good standing with Wilson and high on his list.
I’ll say right now I feel good about things and I’ll give Wilson a 55-percent.(Howell)
******
Bouncing back to football, a couple very brief notes after the Horns' first spring practice. Remember, the guys were in shorts and without pads on Thursday night, as they will be on Saturday, so things really won't get interesting until early next week.
We'll dig a little deeper when there's more to report, but a couple notes that stood out in our conversations on Thursday night.
" Brandon Moore didn't get the memo that the team wasn't in full pads. He was killing out there."
On the QBs ... "Actually, everyone had a good day." (Again, it's day one, pace yourself)
Overall ... (paraphrasing) The team is really in good shape. The guys say they can feel it when they hit people. (Suchomel)
******
This week in recruiting… From A-to-Z in the Lone Star State
Sometimes there can be so much information flying by your eyes in any given week that you miss some of the small stuff. Knowing that, here’s a look at some notes to know from the Class of 2013 from this week, as compiled by the entire Rivals network.
a. Killeen Harker Heights offensive lineman Darius James picked up an offer from Oklahoma.
b. West Mesquite safety Kameron Miles (No.9 on the LSR) was offered by Vanderbilt and Stanford.
c. Bastrop cornerback Antwaun Davis (No.13 on the LSR) picked up offers from Notre Dame, Ole Miss, Alabama and Michigan.
d. Colleyville Heritage quarterback Cody Thomas (No.14 on the LSR) was offered by TCU, Virgina, UNC and Mich State this week to add to long list of offers.
e. Dallas Skyline wide receiver Ra’Shaad Samples (No.18 on the LSR) was offered by Oklahoma and Vanderbilt.
f. Dallas Jesuit offensive lineman J.J. Gustufson (No.20 on the LSR) committed to Texas A&M.
g. Dallas Skyline cornerback Will Barrow (No.21 on the LSR) committed to Texas Tech.
h. Wylie East wide receiver Marcell Ateman (No.25 on the LSR) picked up offers from Texas Tech, Illinois and Oklahoma State.
i. WF Rider quarterback J.T. Barrett (No.26 on the LSR) picked up offers from Ohio St., Baylor, and North Texas.
j. John Tyler wide receiver Fred Ross (no.27 on the LSR) was offered by Oklahoma State.
k. Livingston athlete Chevoski Collins (No.28 on the LSR) was offered by Utah.
l. Fort bend Marshall defensive end/linebacker Deon Hollins Jr. (No.32 on the LSR) was offered by Oklahoma, Utah, Colorado, Texas A&M, Notre Dame, West Virginia.
m. Sugar Land Dulles cornerback Maurice Smith (No.34 on the LSR) picked up offers from Nebraska, Oklahoma State and Arkansas.
n. Belton tight end Durham Smythe (No.35 on the LSR) picked up offers from Oklahoma State and Nebraska.
o. San Antonio Madison defensive tackle Vincent Taylor (No.36 on the LSR) defensive tackle Vincent Taylor was offered by Vanderbilt, Baylor, LSU and Texas Tech.
p. Denton Guyer wide receiver Ellis Jefferson (No.41 on the LSR) was offered by Mississippi State.
q. Wylie East wide receiver Vequan Jones (No.42 on the LSR) picked up an offer from Texas Tech.
r. Bastrop linebacker Paul Whitmill (No.44 on the LSR) picked up an offer from Arizona.
s. Plano Prestonwood tight end Christian Morgan (No.48 on the LSR) was offered by Washington and Texas Tech. He was also offered by SMU as a defensive end.
t. San Antonio Madison wide receiver Dannon Cavil (No.67 on the LSR) picked up an offer from Ole Miss.
u. Cy Woods linebacker Deoundrei Davis (No.68 on the LSR) picked up an offer from Texas A&M.
v. Dallas Jesuit linebacker Jordan Mastrogiovanni (No.73) picked up offers from SMU and Virginia.
w. Denton Guyer offensive guard Patrick Morris (No.89 on the LSR) picked up offers from Kansas, Northwestern, Texas Tech and Washington State.
x. Alief Taylor defensive end Torrodney Prevot picked up offers from Vanderbilt, Arizona State and Kansas.
y. Dallas Skyline linebacker Isaiah Williams picked up an offer from Colorado.
z. Sugar Land Elkins linebacker Keree Renchee has offers from Arkansas and Texas Tech. He is going to an Arkansas junior day on March 4.
This post was edited on 2/23 11:47 PM by DustinMcComas
This post was edited on 2/24 8:01 AM by Ketchum
This post was edited on 2/24 11:43 AM by Suchomel
