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Texas president Bill Powers appears safe from political fallout over his critical comments about the UT board of regents rejecting his 2.6 percent tuition increase proposal for the Austin campus over the next two years
For now.
Texas chancellor Francisco Cigarroa told the Texas Tribune today that Powers' job is not in jeopardy. Powers' fate had become a hot political topic since Texas Monthly's Paul Burka reported May 9 that Powers could soon be pushed out as part of political fallout over the matter.
But I talked to people directly involved in the process who said tonight that Powers is safe - for the moment. However, Powers is being watched - mostly by loyalists to Gov. Rick Perry who sense that Powers has a propensity to contradict or challenge the governor's ideas or goals for higher education.
I talked to two people close to the process who aren't so sure Powers is out of the woods. One said Powers could still be ousted later this year, most likely in the form of early retirement.
But this one is hot because Powers has big, bold plans for Texas, including a medical school/teaching hospital, as well as a goal of reaching a 70 percent, four-year graduation rate by 2016 (currently only 53 percent of students graduate in four years).
Perry appoints the nine members on the UT System board of regents, and all the schools in the UT System received tuition increases except for Texas, which had its tuition frozen for two years. Powers obviously needs money to reach his initiatives and expressed disappointment over the regents' decision to reject his proposal. (The 2.6 percent increase was well within the Legislature's mandate of no more than a 3.9 percent increase.)
But Perry is running for re-election as governor in 2014 and wants to make affordable college education and tuition controls a cornerstone issue. By holding tuition flat at both Texas and Texas A&M for the next two years, Perry can boast that he's making good on his campaign promises. Sources told me Perry's inner circle feels like Powers is dismissive toward the governor and they accuse him of aligning closely with the newly formed Texas Coalition for Excellence in Higher Education, which has called for taking a different tack than the approach pushed by the governor, one that gives more weight to faculty and administrator input.
Powers' involvement with the Coalition may have angered Perry's camp the most. Powers' grumbling about the Perry-appointed regents freezing tuition at UT added to the fire. And it didn't help that Powers also was in the middle of realignment the last two summers and ended up in a tenuous relationship with Texas A&M (Perry's alma mater) with the Aggies ultimately bolting for the SEC.
One member of the Texas Legislature told me tonight making a push to oust Powers is too risky politically for Perry, because Powers has done a good job at Texas. Even if Perry appoints two UT regents at the end of the year with orders to take out Powers, my legislative source says they might fail to gain Senate confirmation (a requirement of those appointed by the governor).
Senate Higher Education Committee chairwoman Judith Zafirini, an ally of Powers, would ask hard questions, my source said. And if Zaffirini sensed the regents might have a motive to take out Powers, she would make sure the regents weren't confirmed.
So Powers may not be out of the woods for good. But he appears to be out of the woods for now.
The question on everyone's mind if Powers was to get booted or be given early retirement before the end of the year is what impact would it have on the highly profitable athletic department anchored by DeLoss Dodds, who is 72.
Some think DeLoss might retire in short order if Powers were to be pushed out. But, remember, Dodds has a $1 million annuity - after taxes - he can collect if he's still the AD on Aug. 31, 2014. Not that Dodds needs the money, but that might be hard to walk away from. Many have speculated if Dodds ever left the AD's office, Mack Brown might be Dodds' replacement.
I could see that in two or three years. But not if Dodds were to leave the job any sooner than that. I think Mack is on a mission to get the football program turned around (he even got that contract extension through 2020 to end any rumors of him stepping down or leaving that could affect recruiting).
The fate of Powers still has a feel of more twists and turns to come. But for now, it appears Powers has survived the political backlash of his strong viewpoints. (BROWN)
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As far as realignment goes, I keep hearing there could be some kind of announcement from the Big 12 Friday that will be notable. But I've been told it would have nothing to do with Florida State. I can't imagine it would be Notre Dame reaching some conclusion about whether to move its non-football sports, especially before the BCS reaches a conclusion about a possible four-team playoff later this summer. But who knows?
I'm told the new, 13-year TV deal between the Big 12 and ABC/ESPN (which will include a 13-year granting of TV rights by schools back to the conference) is probably still a week away from being finalized. I wondered if it might be anything about the Big 12 basketball tournament possibly moving out of Kansas City because of Missouri's defection. But I was told the Big 12 hoops tourney is going to stay in Kansas City for the foreseeable future.
So we'll see if we get any news out of the Big 12 Friday. If it's not realignment related, I don't think we'll see any movement on that front until the Big 12 meets for league meetings in Kansas City beginning May 30. (BROWN)
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A bit more information on Dodge City Community College DE/DT Marcus Hardison, a player Texas checked on last week. As we mentioned in our report on Wednesday, Hardison is expecting to hear from UT assistant Bo Davis in the near future (the call hadn't happened as of Thursday night), and there's been talk of Davis making a trip to Florida before the spring evaluation period ends to get an in-person look at Hardison (Hardison has returned home for the summer).
The 6-4, 290-pound Hardison has Texas really high on his list ... he said UT has been his favorite school for nearly a decade, thanks in large part to a fella named Vince Young. He has family in Houston, and he's no stranger to Austin. It's been a while, but he used to take trips to Austin regularly to visit his grandmother, who lived in the Capital City.
"I just like how it's done around there. I know coach Mack Brown does a great job with the program and I just like the program overall," Hardison said. "It's a very good football program in every way. I would definitely like to play my skill set there."
If Texas is going to go the JUCO route in the 2013 class, Hardison would seem to fit the bill. He loves UT and isn't bashful about admitting it. He's highly coveted. He wants to visit. And, Davis has a connection to the Dodge City CC staff (is there anyone Bo Davis doesn't have a great relationship with?).
Of his offers, Hardison lists Texas A&M, Arkansas and South Florida as his top three choices right now. He's hoping Texas asks him in for a visit.
"I'd take that (trip) in a heartbeat," he said.
Like we said earlier in the week, we don't want to get too far ahead of ourselves with this one and we'll take a wait-and-see approach on where it goes from here, but Hardison definitely has a legitimate interest in Texas, and that's a pretty solid starting point. (Suchomel)
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Fort Worth Southwest wide receiver Robbie Rhodes put on a show at last weekend's state track meet, especially in the 200M where he brought home gold with a time of 21.06 into a slight wind.
Rhodes, of course, followed up his impressive track showing with a visit to meet the Texas coaches on Saturday. The blue-chip pass-catcher has remained silent since his visit (not a big surprise if you've followed Rhodes' recruitment ... he likes his privacy). We did speak with his mother, who accompanied him on the trip, early in the week and she gave us some of her thoughts on the visit.
"Coach (Mack) Brown, I really have much respect for him. The meeting gave us some clarity. Some people say one thing, but when you get to meet a person, it's like you've known him you're whole life," Mrs. Rhodes said. "Me, Robbie, my brother that was with me, his wife - we all really enjoyed it."
Mrs. Rhodes mentioned several times that she's giving her son some space and letting him make his own decision. If she has her way, he'll pick a school that will give him opportunities both on the field and in the classroom, and she'd like Robbie to play for a coaching staff that will help him continue to mature as a person.
"I can't make the decision for him. But any coach that he plays for, I feel me and my husband are doing a great job, now we need someone to kick in his other growth."
More on the visit, and the homework put in by the UT staff ...
"To be honest with you, it was awesome," Mrs. Rhodes said. "When the coaches started telling Robbie about stuff, you could tell they searched Robbie all over. They knew he had never been in trouble. They told him he better be on time for school. It was like what a mom and dad would say, but they're not kin to Robbie. That really hit home. Mack Brown is awesome. I haven't nothing bad to say about him or the visit."
Mrs. Rhodes said Robbie is keeping his feelings on the recruiting process close to the vest - he's not even telling his family. She's hoping he stays close to home, but she reiterated a few times that she cannot make the decision for her son. Baylor is UT's biggest threat in this one, and it's really tough to call how this one will play out. There was some thought that Rhodes could be ready to make a decision in the next couple weeks. That could still happen, but Rhodes is now contemplating the possibility of slowing things down. If he takes his recruitment into the summer, look for Texas to get a return visit, which can only help the Longhorns' chances. (Suchomel)
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In case you missed it in our report last week, there's been some shake-up for top RB prospect Dontre Wilson.
The DeSoto standout was scheduled to decide on May 25, but he told us last week that he's now planning to wait until after his senior season. That's a bit of good news, bad news as far as UT's chances. On one hand, it gives the Longhorn coaches a chance to show Wilson how he'd be used. On the other hand, it gives Wilson a chance to possibly check out Ohio State, a school (along with Oregon) that is believed to be a big threat to Texas.
A couple notes worth mentioning ...
There was a lot of discussion earlier this spring that Texas may be taking a hit in Wilson's eyes because he was told he'd be used in a manner similar to D.J. Monroe (to which Wilson replied, in a nutshell, that Monroe doesn't get a ton of touches). The Texas coaches clarified that issue with the DeSoto standout.
"They said with my ability, my speed and my hands, I'll get the ball a lot more," Wilson said. "I'd be a kick returner, a punt returner, a running back and a slot receiver."
Most people still think Oregon has the inside track, but the Horns are still within striking distance. In talking to people dialed in with this one, it's widely believed that people close to Wilson would like to see him stay close to home, but Wilson himself said the people he confides in most have told him they'll support any decision he makes.
"My dad, he told me to just make it a business decision. Wherever I go, it's my decision, just make sure it's the right place for me," Wilson said. (Suchomel)
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Let's talk about top 2014 OL prospect Demetrius Knox.
Knox is one of the hottest prospects in the entire country and he's already high on UT's radar. Darrell Wyatt checked on him earlier in the spring and OL coach Stacy Searels was by Knox's school on Thursday.
Per UT's rules, no offers will be formally extended to juniors until the class before them signs, but the Fort Worth All Saints Episcopal standout is pretty much locked in for a UT offer as soon as they go out.
"(Coach Searels) said he loved the way I play. He said that he thinks I'm one of the best players he's ever seen," Knox said. "He invited me to one of their camps, in the early part of June.
"Texas really doesn't offer sophomores until the early part of June or even in February, but as of right now, I have an unofficial offer."
Knox moved to Texas from Ohio in the 7th grade, and a lot of people think Ohio State will be a major player for his commitment. Not quite.
"I've grown up in Ohio all my life. It always was that big offer that I wanted to get. When I got it, I was excited, thought it was a game-changer. I thought I was about to commit right then and there," Knox said. "But I did some more research and talked to my family and I don't think Ohio State will really factor into it."
Right now, Knox lists Texas and Alabama as his two favorites (Nick Saban offered this week). It's still early, but Texas looks very good in this one, and Knox is the type of player that can be the foundation of a solid recruiting class. He's that good. (Suchomel)
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The recruiting process continues to pick up for Fort Bend Dulles cornerback Maurice Smith. This week that means Michigan and Arizona St. added their names to his ever-growing offer list.
When we reached out to him this week he denied any leaders, and said no one is standing out. Behind the scenes there has been a lot of buzz about Alabama, and Oklahoma, Texas A&M, and LSU also remain teams firmly in the race.
As for Texas, the Longhorns are a team he has always liked and continues to like.
“It’s still what it is. It’s still my dream school,” Smith said. “Antwuan has committed. I’m not saying it’s going to change my mind or anything because I’m going to stick to my plan (to wait to decide). But that’s just another thing I have to really think about. I’ve been wanting to play with him and that would be my opportunity.”
In fact he keeps in close contact with Texas coaches Oscar Giles and Duane Akina, calling them weekly
“After the junior day and the spring game we’ve built a relationship,” he said. “We don’t just talk about coaching, we talk about our families and how things are going. We’ve built a bond of families too.”
Smith has maintained that he would like wait before making a decision, and he has talked to Texas about his decision to wait. He has eliminated Notre Dame, because of their foreign language requirements, but other than that he is keeping his options open. The decision to thoroughly sort through his options is not a decision he arrived at hastily.
“This is a lifelong decision I’m going to be making and it’s also going to be mine,” Smith said. “I never thought I would be in this position so I’m trying to take every angle and take advantage of this as much as I can. Once I see some of the schools are not what I’m looking for I will take them off the list.”
Over the years he has developed with several top prospects across Texas. He is good friends with Antwuan Davis, Reggie Chevis, Torrodney Prevot, Chris Hardeman, Bralon Addison, and Shaun Lewis to name a few. They have talked about the recruiting process and Smith has sought the advice of those who have already been where he currently sits. Each told him to be patient and not rush or be pressured.
He has also talked to a few friends about playing together on the college level.
“Those guys like Reggie (Chevis), Torrodney (Prevot), and a couple of more we always talk about sticking together and trying to get the same college offers,” Smith said. “Another thing is even though we’ve talked about playing with each other you still have to think about what’s best for you because you’re the one who has to live with it.”
He said he plans to attend camps at Texas, Texas A&M, LSU, and Alabama this summer and also visit as many schools as possible this summer that he has not already visited. (Howell)
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San Antonio (Texas) Madison defensive tackle Vincent Taylor has long been on the Texas radar and he has not shied away from letting his interest in Texas known.
He has been planning to announce his college plans following spring ball and that appears to be right on schedule. Spring ball wraps up for Madison on Tuesday and he gets his SAT scores back around the same time. Then about a week after spring ball wraps (May 29) he plans to announce his college decision.
Taylor and Texas have been keeping in communication over the past few months and Longhorn coach Duane Akina stopped by practice on Tuesday according to Taylor. However, Taylor said he got the feeling Texas was declining in interest right now.
He talked to TCU, who let him know an offer could be coming this summer, on Wednesday of this week and today talked to coaches from Boise St. and Memphis. He also talked to a coach from Baylor today.
Taylor said he currently holds offers from Baylor, Vanderbilt, Purdue, Houston, and New Mexico St. (Howell)
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Sulphur Springs, Texas standout Willie Ivery starred at receiver in 2011 and is looking forward to more of the same in 2012. He is built like a running back and will also play some cornerback, but schools certainly like what they have seen on film at receiver.
Texas receivers coach Darrell Wyatt stopped by to check out Ivery as has area recruiter and offensive line coach Stacy Searels. He was also in Austin for the Texas spring game.
“I liked the experience. I like being in Austin,” Ivery said. “I’ve liked Texas since I was small. I know a lot of people there. I have family there. I just love how they do things there. I love the tradition. I want to be a part of the tradition. I love the weight room. I got to see that at the spring game. I just love everything about Texas.”
While in Austin he was able to connect with Sulphur Springs alum Bryant Jackson.
“I tried to hook up with him before the spring game but they had to stay at the dorms that day,” he said. “I talked to him after his game. He told me a lot of things about Texas and said it was really nice. He won’t be there when I’m there if I go, but he told me a lot things about Texas and told me it was a great place to be.”
It’s easy to see he has a special place in his heart for the Longhorns, he also has them in his early top three.
“I like Texas, A&M, and Tech,” he said. “For A&M, it’s more about tradition. I like theirs. Texas, I’ve just always liked them, it’s always been my favorite school, and I’ve always dreamed of going to Texas. Tech, they just came to visit me a couple of weeks ago and also I know people who have gone to Texas Tech and I like them also. It’s just a pretty good school to go to.”
He plans to camp at Texas, TCU, Texas Tech, and Texas A&M this summer. (Howell)
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Just like I said the other day about 2015s, it is still incredibly early and a lot can happen between now and then. That said let’s dive right into some 2015 talk.
I caught up with Hooks, Texas Athletic Director/Head Football coach Hart Jeanis about his standout freshman R.J. Williams.
It didn’t take him long to figure out Williams was a special player.
“We knew from junior high that R.J. had potential to be something special,” Coach Jeanis said. “We feel like it’s our job to keep motivating R.J. and keep an eye on his grades. He has the potential one day to be a Big 12 or SEC player. That’s why we try to stay on top of him.”
As a freshman in 2011, Williams earned defensive newcomer of the year honors and made an instant impact on both sides of the ball.
“A lot of your freshmen a lot of times they’re going to shy down,” Jeanis said. “You have to understand they’re going from Junior High to Varsity. They’re skipping a whole year or two so you never know how they’re going to respond. We knew R.J. had the physical tools, but the question was did he have the mental tools to make the adjustment that quick. R.J.’s done a great job.
“R.J. he’s one of my inside linebackers and we run the flex-bone so our fullbacks pound the ball inside. I’m not a genius but I can look at R.J. and we’re going to put him at fullback and pound it with him. I’m glad I’m not the linebacker on the other side trying to make the tackle.”
Over his 28-year coaching career, Jeanis has seen several special talents and believes R.J. has a chance to among the best.
“I’ll be honest with you I was at Vernon when James Dixon who played for the Dallas Cowboys and I was at Italy and we had a young man there who played for the Cowboys and the Miami Dolphins,” he said. “They’re far and few between. You don’t see many come through with that kind of potential. And I’ve always coached at smaller schools ? 3A or under ? so they’re even farer and fewer between.”
The potential is there. In fact Jeanis compares him to another small town northeast Texas talent who has gone on to make good on the college level and get a chance in the pros.
“We had athletes at Vernon and I was at Italy when we went through a string of 12-1, 12-1, 11-2, and should’ve won state one year there and got upset. But if you’ve been doing this 28 years you’ve seen good athletes. R.J. reminds me of a bigger… maybe Ganaway. It’s the same work ethic. I always admired Ganaway from DeKalb and you see what he did at Baylor and now he’s in the pros. R.J. has that potential. He just needs to keep his nose to the grindstone and keep working hard.” (Howell)
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Speaking of young East Texas prospects Williams is not the only 2015 that is already drawing attention.
Sulphur Spring, Texas safety/receiver Larry Pryor was named district newcomer of the year as a freshman, and it was known early on that he had special abilities.
“When I first realized he could play he was an eighth grader,” former Sulphur Springs recruiting coordinator D.J. Mann said. “He came up last spring and I saw him working. He was going 7-on-7 with some of the younger kids and he pretty much dominated and he’s been one of the most humble kids I know. I knew pretty early he would be a pretty big time player and he would be able to handle being a big time player.”
He certainly did handle the spotlight as a freshman and not just on the football field.
“He lettered in four sports this year ? basketball, track, baseball, and football,” Mann said. “I would like to say he’s football first, but he could be baseball. He’s better at baseball but I honestly think he likes football more. He’s going to have the opportunity to play at the next level in at least three sports and maybe even basketball. Football and baseball I can see him playing at the next level at a high level.”
On the football field he is just as versatile. He starred at safety, but is also a special receiver.
“He’s special. I think I told you last year he’s Trey Metoyer,” Mann said. “He has that size and speed. He’s a very hard worker. He has phenomenal ball skills, hands I guess that comes with being a good baseball player. He was newcomer of the year for them. He’s an ultra-talented kid. I hate that I’m leaving him.”
Everyone who has come through this spring to look at the older kids has taken a liking to the young talent. TCU is one school to keep an eye on with this one. (Howell)
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My final stop on this East Texas Swing was to Nacogdoches. The Dragons have some big dawgs beginning to bite in the 2014 class. It’s looking like 2014 could be a banner year in terms of talent.
The top dogs are already known. Offensive lineman Jacob Bragg is a big, mean offensive lineman. He worked at tackle last year but is more suited to move inside at 6-3, 290, which is exactly what he will do for Nac. He has been working at center and college coaches like what they have seen so far.
Since January he has boosted his stock with strong performances at a Nike Combine and at the Nike Camp in Dallas.
Bragg grew up a Texas fan, and will be camping at Texas this summer on June 10. He also plans to attend TCU, Baylor, Houston, and Oklahoma St. camps.
Defensive end Greg Roberts does not have the tape Bragg has and has not been to the camps. He also does not plan to attend any camps this summer. What Roberts has though is a big long frame. He is every bit of 6-5 and he has room to really fill out. He has been clocked at 4.51 in the forty and he has some big time bloodlines as the son of the Oklahoma Sooner 1978 Outland Trophy Winner by the same name. This summer he will be working out in Tampa, Fla. where his father lives and does not plan to attend any camps this summer.
Roberts admits he grew up a Sooner fan, but as he has grown older he has opened his eyes to several college programs.
Those are the two we knew about. Now let’s talk about an unexpected surprise - 2014 LB Sean Matthews.
6-2, 215, 4.6 forty. Today he power cleaned 250. Matthews definitely looks the part. He does not have a lot of tape, but he will be the SAM backer in 2012 and has quickly caught the attention of college coaches who have shown up to catch a glimpse at Bragg and Roberts.
The first thing that stood out to me, is he likes to dress up. Button up shirt and a tie. He was very well spoken, seemed like a good kid and coach James Reyes had nothing but good things to say about him. Matthews caught the eye of Texas defensive tackle coach Bo Davis and he will be attending the Texas camp this summer as well as a few others around the Nacogdoches area.
In addition to these guys I was told to keep an eye on a 2015 RB. I don’t know a lot about him other than he is already squatting 500 pounds and lifting with the top group, and the coaches say he has legit speed. It sounds like there’s about to be a lot more recruiting activity out in Dragon country. (Howell)
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Finally last week at the state track meet we were able to catch up with 2012 Texas signee Bryson Echols. The defensive back was in Austin as a member of DeSoto’s 4x200 and 4x100, who finished first and second.
Echols is ready to report to Austin for the next few years on June 3, and is ready to get back into football form.
“I haven’t really done anything football related because Mathis wanted me to focus on track to get this state title,” Echols said.
He did begin his workout from Wylie, but had to stop because he was getting too big for track season. He feels like he needs to get bigger before heading back to Austin, but is ready and not only for football.
“I’m ready to get out of DeSoto,” Echols said with a laugh.
Of course on the field there is one thing he cannot wait for.
“Mostly just working out with Akina and seeing what kind of guy he is. I heard he was the best DB coach in the nation,” he said. “He’s energetic. He loves the game. I can tell.”
He does not know who he will be rooming with when he arrives at Texas, but he knows who he will not.
“I think Peter Jinkens. I know it’s not going to be Curtis (Riser),” he said laughing. “I see him every day. I’m tired of Curtis.” (Howell)
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Well, another week has gone by and we’re all still waiting on Devonta Pollard. There has been some buzz that Pollard, a five-star small forward in the class of 2012 for hoops, could be down to Texas and Alabama. That’s just speculation at that point based on Missouri being out of scholarships and Georgetown losing the assistant that was recruiting Pollard to LSU, who could now be in the race. I asked one source about Pollard and he said, "you know as much as I do."
The good news? Texas certainly isn’t out of it, and it has a spot open for him.
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For those wondering if senior left-handed pitcher Sam Stafford will be back at Texas next season after a season-ending injury, a direct source told me that he won’t be back. Stafford, who was drafted in the second round by the Yankees last year and wasn’t given a chance to sign, has the option to return next season because he hasn’t used a redshirt. He’ll forego his year of eligibility and move on. There are multiple teams interested in signing or drafting Stafford in the upcoming draft, and the lefty will make the move to begin his road back with a professional organization. It’s without a doubt the best move for Stafford to make.
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Here’s a look at some of the offers handed out around the state this week that you might have missed of note:
Class of 2013
(LSR No.8) Colleyville Heritage quarterback Cody Thomas committed to Oklahoma after being offered by LSU and Alabama this week.
(LSR No.23) Sugar Land Dulles cornerback Maurice Smith was offered by Michigan and Arizona State.
(LSR No.24) West Mesquite safety Kameron Miles was offered by Penn State.
(LSR No.33) Rockwall-Heath linebacker Raaquan Davis committed to Baylor.
(LSR No.40) Dallas Skyline quarterback DeVante Kincade was offered by Nebraska.
(LSR No.57) Oklahoma State offered San Antonio East central DB Austin Jupe.
(LSR No.66) Weimar offensive lineman Ja’Braylin Thomas committed to Houston
2014
(LSR No.7) Lake Travis running back Varshaun Nixon was offered by Texas A&M.
(LSR No.20) Klein Collins defensive back Chris Hardeman was offered by Ole Miss and Nebraska.
(LSR No.21) Alief Taylor wide receiver Keenan Brown was offered by Ole Miss.
(LSR No.23) Dallas Bishop Dunne defensive back Nick Watkins was offered Michigan.
(LSR No.27) Mansfield Timberview safety Brandon Simmons was offered by Virginia, Arizona State, Georgia Tech and Iowa.
(LSR No.29) Wylie DB TK Rockwell was offered by Nebraska.
(LSR No.66) Syracuse offered Dallas Roosevelt running back Devin Johnson
Fort Worth All Saints offensive lineman Demetrius Knox was offered by Alabama, Baylor, Ohio State and Michigan.
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Five things to end with
1. Had a chance to talk with a college coaching buddy of mine on Thursday afternoon and was able to pick his brain about a few topics that I thought might interest you. First of all, he likes a Texas commitment as the best prospect in the state, but not the one currently in the top spot of the LSR rankings. “Personally, give me (Ricky) Seals-Jones,” the coach said. “I think he’s the best pound for pound player in the state and that’s usually something you say about small guys, but he’s that impressive. I don’t think any of us truly know how good he can be or what he’s even going to be, but we’d all buy it by the dozens if we could.”
2. I also asked him about the 2014 offers that have gone out this spring all over the state. “That’s just the way recruiting is going and nothing is going to stop it. Don’t be surprised if you see some sophomores receive offers this time next year. It won’t be everyone, but there will be a group of the best that start picking up offers that early. A lot of people look at it as an opportunity to get ahead of the next guy and you definitely get a sense that a lot of schools are hoping this helps them in the future against Texas, because nothing else has worked.”
3. One final note on the 2014 offers this month. “You’re seeing a lot more head coaches involved with offers right now with the younger kids. I walked into a school the other day and was asking about one of the juniors and was told that he had already spoken with Les Miles. Bob Stoops, Urban Meyer and Nick Saban. I knew to not even bother because we won’t get that kid. That’s something that we cannot really combat and I think that’s another direct response to the way Mack recruits at Texas. It’s like receiving a compliment and a threat at the same time.”
4. Manny Diaz was in La Porte today and the Longhorns continue to make up slight pieces of progress with the current No.1 on the LSR Top 100 for 2014. Despite speculation of a pending commitment at A&M, I continue to hear that Scott is pretty open to the recruiting process, not in a real hurry and plans to camp at Texas next month. I get the sense that Diaz’s visit today was viewed favorably.
5. I can’t express enough how popular Manny Diaz is within the program and with those that deal with him outside of the program. Everyone loves Manny and I can’t remember ever hearing someone say they knew anyone that had a bad vibe after dealing with him. As popular as Will Muschamp was in and around the program, Diaz has surpassed him in my mind. (GK)
Texas president Bill Powers appears safe from political fallout over his critical comments about the UT board of regents rejecting his 2.6 percent tuition increase proposal for the Austin campus over the next two years
For now.
Texas chancellor Francisco Cigarroa told the Texas Tribune today that Powers' job is not in jeopardy. Powers' fate had become a hot political topic since Texas Monthly's Paul Burka reported May 9 that Powers could soon be pushed out as part of political fallout over the matter.
But I talked to people directly involved in the process who said tonight that Powers is safe - for the moment. However, Powers is being watched - mostly by loyalists to Gov. Rick Perry who sense that Powers has a propensity to contradict or challenge the governor's ideas or goals for higher education.
I talked to two people close to the process who aren't so sure Powers is out of the woods. One said Powers could still be ousted later this year, most likely in the form of early retirement.
But this one is hot because Powers has big, bold plans for Texas, including a medical school/teaching hospital, as well as a goal of reaching a 70 percent, four-year graduation rate by 2016 (currently only 53 percent of students graduate in four years).
Perry appoints the nine members on the UT System board of regents, and all the schools in the UT System received tuition increases except for Texas, which had its tuition frozen for two years. Powers obviously needs money to reach his initiatives and expressed disappointment over the regents' decision to reject his proposal. (The 2.6 percent increase was well within the Legislature's mandate of no more than a 3.9 percent increase.)
But Perry is running for re-election as governor in 2014 and wants to make affordable college education and tuition controls a cornerstone issue. By holding tuition flat at both Texas and Texas A&M for the next two years, Perry can boast that he's making good on his campaign promises. Sources told me Perry's inner circle feels like Powers is dismissive toward the governor and they accuse him of aligning closely with the newly formed Texas Coalition for Excellence in Higher Education, which has called for taking a different tack than the approach pushed by the governor, one that gives more weight to faculty and administrator input.
Powers' involvement with the Coalition may have angered Perry's camp the most. Powers' grumbling about the Perry-appointed regents freezing tuition at UT added to the fire. And it didn't help that Powers also was in the middle of realignment the last two summers and ended up in a tenuous relationship with Texas A&M (Perry's alma mater) with the Aggies ultimately bolting for the SEC.
One member of the Texas Legislature told me tonight making a push to oust Powers is too risky politically for Perry, because Powers has done a good job at Texas. Even if Perry appoints two UT regents at the end of the year with orders to take out Powers, my legislative source says they might fail to gain Senate confirmation (a requirement of those appointed by the governor).
Senate Higher Education Committee chairwoman Judith Zafirini, an ally of Powers, would ask hard questions, my source said. And if Zaffirini sensed the regents might have a motive to take out Powers, she would make sure the regents weren't confirmed.
So Powers may not be out of the woods for good. But he appears to be out of the woods for now.
The question on everyone's mind if Powers was to get booted or be given early retirement before the end of the year is what impact would it have on the highly profitable athletic department anchored by DeLoss Dodds, who is 72.
Some think DeLoss might retire in short order if Powers were to be pushed out. But, remember, Dodds has a $1 million annuity - after taxes - he can collect if he's still the AD on Aug. 31, 2014. Not that Dodds needs the money, but that might be hard to walk away from. Many have speculated if Dodds ever left the AD's office, Mack Brown might be Dodds' replacement.
I could see that in two or three years. But not if Dodds were to leave the job any sooner than that. I think Mack is on a mission to get the football program turned around (he even got that contract extension through 2020 to end any rumors of him stepping down or leaving that could affect recruiting).
The fate of Powers still has a feel of more twists and turns to come. But for now, it appears Powers has survived the political backlash of his strong viewpoints. (BROWN)
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As far as realignment goes, I keep hearing there could be some kind of announcement from the Big 12 Friday that will be notable. But I've been told it would have nothing to do with Florida State. I can't imagine it would be Notre Dame reaching some conclusion about whether to move its non-football sports, especially before the BCS reaches a conclusion about a possible four-team playoff later this summer. But who knows?
I'm told the new, 13-year TV deal between the Big 12 and ABC/ESPN (which will include a 13-year granting of TV rights by schools back to the conference) is probably still a week away from being finalized. I wondered if it might be anything about the Big 12 basketball tournament possibly moving out of Kansas City because of Missouri's defection. But I was told the Big 12 hoops tourney is going to stay in Kansas City for the foreseeable future.
So we'll see if we get any news out of the Big 12 Friday. If it's not realignment related, I don't think we'll see any movement on that front until the Big 12 meets for league meetings in Kansas City beginning May 30. (BROWN)
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A bit more information on Dodge City Community College DE/DT Marcus Hardison, a player Texas checked on last week. As we mentioned in our report on Wednesday, Hardison is expecting to hear from UT assistant Bo Davis in the near future (the call hadn't happened as of Thursday night), and there's been talk of Davis making a trip to Florida before the spring evaluation period ends to get an in-person look at Hardison (Hardison has returned home for the summer).
The 6-4, 290-pound Hardison has Texas really high on his list ... he said UT has been his favorite school for nearly a decade, thanks in large part to a fella named Vince Young. He has family in Houston, and he's no stranger to Austin. It's been a while, but he used to take trips to Austin regularly to visit his grandmother, who lived in the Capital City.
"I just like how it's done around there. I know coach Mack Brown does a great job with the program and I just like the program overall," Hardison said. "It's a very good football program in every way. I would definitely like to play my skill set there."
If Texas is going to go the JUCO route in the 2013 class, Hardison would seem to fit the bill. He loves UT and isn't bashful about admitting it. He's highly coveted. He wants to visit. And, Davis has a connection to the Dodge City CC staff (is there anyone Bo Davis doesn't have a great relationship with?).
Of his offers, Hardison lists Texas A&M, Arkansas and South Florida as his top three choices right now. He's hoping Texas asks him in for a visit.
"I'd take that (trip) in a heartbeat," he said.
Like we said earlier in the week, we don't want to get too far ahead of ourselves with this one and we'll take a wait-and-see approach on where it goes from here, but Hardison definitely has a legitimate interest in Texas, and that's a pretty solid starting point. (Suchomel)
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Fort Worth Southwest wide receiver Robbie Rhodes put on a show at last weekend's state track meet, especially in the 200M where he brought home gold with a time of 21.06 into a slight wind.
Rhodes, of course, followed up his impressive track showing with a visit to meet the Texas coaches on Saturday. The blue-chip pass-catcher has remained silent since his visit (not a big surprise if you've followed Rhodes' recruitment ... he likes his privacy). We did speak with his mother, who accompanied him on the trip, early in the week and she gave us some of her thoughts on the visit.
"Coach (Mack) Brown, I really have much respect for him. The meeting gave us some clarity. Some people say one thing, but when you get to meet a person, it's like you've known him you're whole life," Mrs. Rhodes said. "Me, Robbie, my brother that was with me, his wife - we all really enjoyed it."
Mrs. Rhodes mentioned several times that she's giving her son some space and letting him make his own decision. If she has her way, he'll pick a school that will give him opportunities both on the field and in the classroom, and she'd like Robbie to play for a coaching staff that will help him continue to mature as a person.
"I can't make the decision for him. But any coach that he plays for, I feel me and my husband are doing a great job, now we need someone to kick in his other growth."
More on the visit, and the homework put in by the UT staff ...
"To be honest with you, it was awesome," Mrs. Rhodes said. "When the coaches started telling Robbie about stuff, you could tell they searched Robbie all over. They knew he had never been in trouble. They told him he better be on time for school. It was like what a mom and dad would say, but they're not kin to Robbie. That really hit home. Mack Brown is awesome. I haven't nothing bad to say about him or the visit."
Mrs. Rhodes said Robbie is keeping his feelings on the recruiting process close to the vest - he's not even telling his family. She's hoping he stays close to home, but she reiterated a few times that she cannot make the decision for her son. Baylor is UT's biggest threat in this one, and it's really tough to call how this one will play out. There was some thought that Rhodes could be ready to make a decision in the next couple weeks. That could still happen, but Rhodes is now contemplating the possibility of slowing things down. If he takes his recruitment into the summer, look for Texas to get a return visit, which can only help the Longhorns' chances. (Suchomel)
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In case you missed it in our report last week, there's been some shake-up for top RB prospect Dontre Wilson.
The DeSoto standout was scheduled to decide on May 25, but he told us last week that he's now planning to wait until after his senior season. That's a bit of good news, bad news as far as UT's chances. On one hand, it gives the Longhorn coaches a chance to show Wilson how he'd be used. On the other hand, it gives Wilson a chance to possibly check out Ohio State, a school (along with Oregon) that is believed to be a big threat to Texas.
A couple notes worth mentioning ...
There was a lot of discussion earlier this spring that Texas may be taking a hit in Wilson's eyes because he was told he'd be used in a manner similar to D.J. Monroe (to which Wilson replied, in a nutshell, that Monroe doesn't get a ton of touches). The Texas coaches clarified that issue with the DeSoto standout.
"They said with my ability, my speed and my hands, I'll get the ball a lot more," Wilson said. "I'd be a kick returner, a punt returner, a running back and a slot receiver."
Most people still think Oregon has the inside track, but the Horns are still within striking distance. In talking to people dialed in with this one, it's widely believed that people close to Wilson would like to see him stay close to home, but Wilson himself said the people he confides in most have told him they'll support any decision he makes.
"My dad, he told me to just make it a business decision. Wherever I go, it's my decision, just make sure it's the right place for me," Wilson said. (Suchomel)
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Let's talk about top 2014 OL prospect Demetrius Knox.
Knox is one of the hottest prospects in the entire country and he's already high on UT's radar. Darrell Wyatt checked on him earlier in the spring and OL coach Stacy Searels was by Knox's school on Thursday.
Per UT's rules, no offers will be formally extended to juniors until the class before them signs, but the Fort Worth All Saints Episcopal standout is pretty much locked in for a UT offer as soon as they go out.
"(Coach Searels) said he loved the way I play. He said that he thinks I'm one of the best players he's ever seen," Knox said. "He invited me to one of their camps, in the early part of June.
"Texas really doesn't offer sophomores until the early part of June or even in February, but as of right now, I have an unofficial offer."
Knox moved to Texas from Ohio in the 7th grade, and a lot of people think Ohio State will be a major player for his commitment. Not quite.
"I've grown up in Ohio all my life. It always was that big offer that I wanted to get. When I got it, I was excited, thought it was a game-changer. I thought I was about to commit right then and there," Knox said. "But I did some more research and talked to my family and I don't think Ohio State will really factor into it."
Right now, Knox lists Texas and Alabama as his two favorites (Nick Saban offered this week). It's still early, but Texas looks very good in this one, and Knox is the type of player that can be the foundation of a solid recruiting class. He's that good. (Suchomel)
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The recruiting process continues to pick up for Fort Bend Dulles cornerback Maurice Smith. This week that means Michigan and Arizona St. added their names to his ever-growing offer list.
When we reached out to him this week he denied any leaders, and said no one is standing out. Behind the scenes there has been a lot of buzz about Alabama, and Oklahoma, Texas A&M, and LSU also remain teams firmly in the race.
As for Texas, the Longhorns are a team he has always liked and continues to like.
“It’s still what it is. It’s still my dream school,” Smith said. “Antwuan has committed. I’m not saying it’s going to change my mind or anything because I’m going to stick to my plan (to wait to decide). But that’s just another thing I have to really think about. I’ve been wanting to play with him and that would be my opportunity.”
In fact he keeps in close contact with Texas coaches Oscar Giles and Duane Akina, calling them weekly
“After the junior day and the spring game we’ve built a relationship,” he said. “We don’t just talk about coaching, we talk about our families and how things are going. We’ve built a bond of families too.”
Smith has maintained that he would like wait before making a decision, and he has talked to Texas about his decision to wait. He has eliminated Notre Dame, because of their foreign language requirements, but other than that he is keeping his options open. The decision to thoroughly sort through his options is not a decision he arrived at hastily.
“This is a lifelong decision I’m going to be making and it’s also going to be mine,” Smith said. “I never thought I would be in this position so I’m trying to take every angle and take advantage of this as much as I can. Once I see some of the schools are not what I’m looking for I will take them off the list.”
Over the years he has developed with several top prospects across Texas. He is good friends with Antwuan Davis, Reggie Chevis, Torrodney Prevot, Chris Hardeman, Bralon Addison, and Shaun Lewis to name a few. They have talked about the recruiting process and Smith has sought the advice of those who have already been where he currently sits. Each told him to be patient and not rush or be pressured.
He has also talked to a few friends about playing together on the college level.
“Those guys like Reggie (Chevis), Torrodney (Prevot), and a couple of more we always talk about sticking together and trying to get the same college offers,” Smith said. “Another thing is even though we’ve talked about playing with each other you still have to think about what’s best for you because you’re the one who has to live with it.”
He said he plans to attend camps at Texas, Texas A&M, LSU, and Alabama this summer and also visit as many schools as possible this summer that he has not already visited. (Howell)
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San Antonio (Texas) Madison defensive tackle Vincent Taylor has long been on the Texas radar and he has not shied away from letting his interest in Texas known.
He has been planning to announce his college plans following spring ball and that appears to be right on schedule. Spring ball wraps up for Madison on Tuesday and he gets his SAT scores back around the same time. Then about a week after spring ball wraps (May 29) he plans to announce his college decision.
Taylor and Texas have been keeping in communication over the past few months and Longhorn coach Duane Akina stopped by practice on Tuesday according to Taylor. However, Taylor said he got the feeling Texas was declining in interest right now.
He talked to TCU, who let him know an offer could be coming this summer, on Wednesday of this week and today talked to coaches from Boise St. and Memphis. He also talked to a coach from Baylor today.
Taylor said he currently holds offers from Baylor, Vanderbilt, Purdue, Houston, and New Mexico St. (Howell)
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Sulphur Springs, Texas standout Willie Ivery starred at receiver in 2011 and is looking forward to more of the same in 2012. He is built like a running back and will also play some cornerback, but schools certainly like what they have seen on film at receiver.
Texas receivers coach Darrell Wyatt stopped by to check out Ivery as has area recruiter and offensive line coach Stacy Searels. He was also in Austin for the Texas spring game.
“I liked the experience. I like being in Austin,” Ivery said. “I’ve liked Texas since I was small. I know a lot of people there. I have family there. I just love how they do things there. I love the tradition. I want to be a part of the tradition. I love the weight room. I got to see that at the spring game. I just love everything about Texas.”
While in Austin he was able to connect with Sulphur Springs alum Bryant Jackson.
“I tried to hook up with him before the spring game but they had to stay at the dorms that day,” he said. “I talked to him after his game. He told me a lot of things about Texas and said it was really nice. He won’t be there when I’m there if I go, but he told me a lot things about Texas and told me it was a great place to be.”
It’s easy to see he has a special place in his heart for the Longhorns, he also has them in his early top three.
“I like Texas, A&M, and Tech,” he said. “For A&M, it’s more about tradition. I like theirs. Texas, I’ve just always liked them, it’s always been my favorite school, and I’ve always dreamed of going to Texas. Tech, they just came to visit me a couple of weeks ago and also I know people who have gone to Texas Tech and I like them also. It’s just a pretty good school to go to.”
He plans to camp at Texas, TCU, Texas Tech, and Texas A&M this summer. (Howell)
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Just like I said the other day about 2015s, it is still incredibly early and a lot can happen between now and then. That said let’s dive right into some 2015 talk.
I caught up with Hooks, Texas Athletic Director/Head Football coach Hart Jeanis about his standout freshman R.J. Williams.
It didn’t take him long to figure out Williams was a special player.
“We knew from junior high that R.J. had potential to be something special,” Coach Jeanis said. “We feel like it’s our job to keep motivating R.J. and keep an eye on his grades. He has the potential one day to be a Big 12 or SEC player. That’s why we try to stay on top of him.”
As a freshman in 2011, Williams earned defensive newcomer of the year honors and made an instant impact on both sides of the ball.
“A lot of your freshmen a lot of times they’re going to shy down,” Jeanis said. “You have to understand they’re going from Junior High to Varsity. They’re skipping a whole year or two so you never know how they’re going to respond. We knew R.J. had the physical tools, but the question was did he have the mental tools to make the adjustment that quick. R.J.’s done a great job.
“R.J. he’s one of my inside linebackers and we run the flex-bone so our fullbacks pound the ball inside. I’m not a genius but I can look at R.J. and we’re going to put him at fullback and pound it with him. I’m glad I’m not the linebacker on the other side trying to make the tackle.”
Over his 28-year coaching career, Jeanis has seen several special talents and believes R.J. has a chance to among the best.
“I’ll be honest with you I was at Vernon when James Dixon who played for the Dallas Cowboys and I was at Italy and we had a young man there who played for the Cowboys and the Miami Dolphins,” he said. “They’re far and few between. You don’t see many come through with that kind of potential. And I’ve always coached at smaller schools ? 3A or under ? so they’re even farer and fewer between.”
The potential is there. In fact Jeanis compares him to another small town northeast Texas talent who has gone on to make good on the college level and get a chance in the pros.
“We had athletes at Vernon and I was at Italy when we went through a string of 12-1, 12-1, 11-2, and should’ve won state one year there and got upset. But if you’ve been doing this 28 years you’ve seen good athletes. R.J. reminds me of a bigger… maybe Ganaway. It’s the same work ethic. I always admired Ganaway from DeKalb and you see what he did at Baylor and now he’s in the pros. R.J. has that potential. He just needs to keep his nose to the grindstone and keep working hard.” (Howell)
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Speaking of young East Texas prospects Williams is not the only 2015 that is already drawing attention.
Sulphur Spring, Texas safety/receiver Larry Pryor was named district newcomer of the year as a freshman, and it was known early on that he had special abilities.
“When I first realized he could play he was an eighth grader,” former Sulphur Springs recruiting coordinator D.J. Mann said. “He came up last spring and I saw him working. He was going 7-on-7 with some of the younger kids and he pretty much dominated and he’s been one of the most humble kids I know. I knew pretty early he would be a pretty big time player and he would be able to handle being a big time player.”
He certainly did handle the spotlight as a freshman and not just on the football field.
“He lettered in four sports this year ? basketball, track, baseball, and football,” Mann said. “I would like to say he’s football first, but he could be baseball. He’s better at baseball but I honestly think he likes football more. He’s going to have the opportunity to play at the next level in at least three sports and maybe even basketball. Football and baseball I can see him playing at the next level at a high level.”
On the football field he is just as versatile. He starred at safety, but is also a special receiver.
“He’s special. I think I told you last year he’s Trey Metoyer,” Mann said. “He has that size and speed. He’s a very hard worker. He has phenomenal ball skills, hands I guess that comes with being a good baseball player. He was newcomer of the year for them. He’s an ultra-talented kid. I hate that I’m leaving him.”
Everyone who has come through this spring to look at the older kids has taken a liking to the young talent. TCU is one school to keep an eye on with this one. (Howell)
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My final stop on this East Texas Swing was to Nacogdoches. The Dragons have some big dawgs beginning to bite in the 2014 class. It’s looking like 2014 could be a banner year in terms of talent.
The top dogs are already known. Offensive lineman Jacob Bragg is a big, mean offensive lineman. He worked at tackle last year but is more suited to move inside at 6-3, 290, which is exactly what he will do for Nac. He has been working at center and college coaches like what they have seen so far.
Since January he has boosted his stock with strong performances at a Nike Combine and at the Nike Camp in Dallas.
Bragg grew up a Texas fan, and will be camping at Texas this summer on June 10. He also plans to attend TCU, Baylor, Houston, and Oklahoma St. camps.
Defensive end Greg Roberts does not have the tape Bragg has and has not been to the camps. He also does not plan to attend any camps this summer. What Roberts has though is a big long frame. He is every bit of 6-5 and he has room to really fill out. He has been clocked at 4.51 in the forty and he has some big time bloodlines as the son of the Oklahoma Sooner 1978 Outland Trophy Winner by the same name. This summer he will be working out in Tampa, Fla. where his father lives and does not plan to attend any camps this summer.
Roberts admits he grew up a Sooner fan, but as he has grown older he has opened his eyes to several college programs.
Those are the two we knew about. Now let’s talk about an unexpected surprise - 2014 LB Sean Matthews.
6-2, 215, 4.6 forty. Today he power cleaned 250. Matthews definitely looks the part. He does not have a lot of tape, but he will be the SAM backer in 2012 and has quickly caught the attention of college coaches who have shown up to catch a glimpse at Bragg and Roberts.
The first thing that stood out to me, is he likes to dress up. Button up shirt and a tie. He was very well spoken, seemed like a good kid and coach James Reyes had nothing but good things to say about him. Matthews caught the eye of Texas defensive tackle coach Bo Davis and he will be attending the Texas camp this summer as well as a few others around the Nacogdoches area.
In addition to these guys I was told to keep an eye on a 2015 RB. I don’t know a lot about him other than he is already squatting 500 pounds and lifting with the top group, and the coaches say he has legit speed. It sounds like there’s about to be a lot more recruiting activity out in Dragon country. (Howell)
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Finally last week at the state track meet we were able to catch up with 2012 Texas signee Bryson Echols. The defensive back was in Austin as a member of DeSoto’s 4x200 and 4x100, who finished first and second.
Echols is ready to report to Austin for the next few years on June 3, and is ready to get back into football form.
“I haven’t really done anything football related because Mathis wanted me to focus on track to get this state title,” Echols said.
He did begin his workout from Wylie, but had to stop because he was getting too big for track season. He feels like he needs to get bigger before heading back to Austin, but is ready and not only for football.
“I’m ready to get out of DeSoto,” Echols said with a laugh.
Of course on the field there is one thing he cannot wait for.
“Mostly just working out with Akina and seeing what kind of guy he is. I heard he was the best DB coach in the nation,” he said. “He’s energetic. He loves the game. I can tell.”
He does not know who he will be rooming with when he arrives at Texas, but he knows who he will not.
“I think Peter Jinkens. I know it’s not going to be Curtis (Riser),” he said laughing. “I see him every day. I’m tired of Curtis.” (Howell)
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Well, another week has gone by and we’re all still waiting on Devonta Pollard. There has been some buzz that Pollard, a five-star small forward in the class of 2012 for hoops, could be down to Texas and Alabama. That’s just speculation at that point based on Missouri being out of scholarships and Georgetown losing the assistant that was recruiting Pollard to LSU, who could now be in the race. I asked one source about Pollard and he said, "you know as much as I do."
The good news? Texas certainly isn’t out of it, and it has a spot open for him.
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For those wondering if senior left-handed pitcher Sam Stafford will be back at Texas next season after a season-ending injury, a direct source told me that he won’t be back. Stafford, who was drafted in the second round by the Yankees last year and wasn’t given a chance to sign, has the option to return next season because he hasn’t used a redshirt. He’ll forego his year of eligibility and move on. There are multiple teams interested in signing or drafting Stafford in the upcoming draft, and the lefty will make the move to begin his road back with a professional organization. It’s without a doubt the best move for Stafford to make.
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Here’s a look at some of the offers handed out around the state this week that you might have missed of note:
Class of 2013
(LSR No.8) Colleyville Heritage quarterback Cody Thomas committed to Oklahoma after being offered by LSU and Alabama this week.
(LSR No.23) Sugar Land Dulles cornerback Maurice Smith was offered by Michigan and Arizona State.
(LSR No.24) West Mesquite safety Kameron Miles was offered by Penn State.
(LSR No.33) Rockwall-Heath linebacker Raaquan Davis committed to Baylor.
(LSR No.40) Dallas Skyline quarterback DeVante Kincade was offered by Nebraska.
(LSR No.57) Oklahoma State offered San Antonio East central DB Austin Jupe.
(LSR No.66) Weimar offensive lineman Ja’Braylin Thomas committed to Houston
2014
(LSR No.7) Lake Travis running back Varshaun Nixon was offered by Texas A&M.
(LSR No.20) Klein Collins defensive back Chris Hardeman was offered by Ole Miss and Nebraska.
(LSR No.21) Alief Taylor wide receiver Keenan Brown was offered by Ole Miss.
(LSR No.23) Dallas Bishop Dunne defensive back Nick Watkins was offered Michigan.
(LSR No.27) Mansfield Timberview safety Brandon Simmons was offered by Virginia, Arizona State, Georgia Tech and Iowa.
(LSR No.29) Wylie DB TK Rockwell was offered by Nebraska.
(LSR No.66) Syracuse offered Dallas Roosevelt running back Devin Johnson
Fort Worth All Saints offensive lineman Demetrius Knox was offered by Alabama, Baylor, Ohio State and Michigan.
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Five things to end with
1. Had a chance to talk with a college coaching buddy of mine on Thursday afternoon and was able to pick his brain about a few topics that I thought might interest you. First of all, he likes a Texas commitment as the best prospect in the state, but not the one currently in the top spot of the LSR rankings. “Personally, give me (Ricky) Seals-Jones,” the coach said. “I think he’s the best pound for pound player in the state and that’s usually something you say about small guys, but he’s that impressive. I don’t think any of us truly know how good he can be or what he’s even going to be, but we’d all buy it by the dozens if we could.”
2. I also asked him about the 2014 offers that have gone out this spring all over the state. “That’s just the way recruiting is going and nothing is going to stop it. Don’t be surprised if you see some sophomores receive offers this time next year. It won’t be everyone, but there will be a group of the best that start picking up offers that early. A lot of people look at it as an opportunity to get ahead of the next guy and you definitely get a sense that a lot of schools are hoping this helps them in the future against Texas, because nothing else has worked.”
3. One final note on the 2014 offers this month. “You’re seeing a lot more head coaches involved with offers right now with the younger kids. I walked into a school the other day and was asking about one of the juniors and was told that he had already spoken with Les Miles. Bob Stoops, Urban Meyer and Nick Saban. I knew to not even bother because we won’t get that kid. That’s something that we cannot really combat and I think that’s another direct response to the way Mack recruits at Texas. It’s like receiving a compliment and a threat at the same time.”
4. Manny Diaz was in La Porte today and the Longhorns continue to make up slight pieces of progress with the current No.1 on the LSR Top 100 for 2014. Despite speculation of a pending commitment at A&M, I continue to hear that Scott is pretty open to the recruiting process, not in a real hurry and plans to camp at Texas next month. I get the sense that Diaz’s visit today was viewed favorably.
5. I can’t express enough how popular Manny Diaz is within the program and with those that deal with him outside of the program. Everyone loves Manny and I can’t remember ever hearing someone say they knew anyone that had a bad vibe after dealing with him. As popular as Will Muschamp was in and around the program, Diaz has surpassed him in my mind. (GK)
