I originally said 9-3, but I don't know how good teams like OSU, Baylor, TCU, Cal, will be?
Recruiting Thread 2017
- Thread starter Scholz
- Start date
I originally said 9-3, but I don't know how good teams like OSU, Baylor, TCU, Cal, will be?
OSU and TCU are my toss up games. ND and blOwU are my likely losses. And KSU is my trip up game.
How about Baylor? They are in trouble going forward, but this year they still have all those upperclassman who stayed.
They stayed yes... they also lost to Texas last year.... and this year we should actually have an offense to go with our D, so Im thinking we do to Baylor what their players did to co-eds under Briles......
(too soon?) lol
They got their Heisman contending QB back now, right? Russell? If I remember correctly weren't they down to a WR playing QB in the Texas game?
To me that is why they are a wildcard this year? They might put 50 up on people with Russell back?
Agree.
Assuming that Baylor doesn't see s complete injury meltdown at the QB position again, they did Oklahoma have to be considered the favorites to win the conference.
And both have to be considered "probable losses" for Texas in 2016, along with ND.
Beyond that, your looking at about 3-5 genes that should be pretty close/competitive in Okie St. , TCU, Texas Tech, West Virginia, and Cal
With all the youth and unknowns, I don't see many "very likely to win" games for Texas in 2016.
I think the season largely will come down to how many close games Texas is able to pull out against "okay but not really good" competition.
I'd predict somewhere around 6-8 wins, right now.
But that number could really change (in either direction) depending on how some of the major questions about Texas get answered, or if any injuries occur at a few key positions.
They bring back only 27 OL starts and with Cannon's knee injury they lost their top three receivers. They lose pretty much the whole DL as well. That bad defense is going to be even worse.
Chances are high they mail it in. They came to play for Art Briles.
Small sample size but I believe Arky, tOSU, and Penn St all went 5-7 after losing their HC for off the field reasons during the offseason.
Last edited:
I would like to point out people say you can't make the TCU jump in one season, but know this ..since the mid 2000's the Leach and Bries system have been slowly cranking out assistants that were close to the originators ...and where ever they go improvement follows ASAP.
I see it like this OU, TCU and BU are the best offenses that we've faced. OU and BU our defensive scheme worked. TCU- it was a sad game to our D made a stop early then 30-0 in the 1st Q. Their scheme isn't that crazy awesome as much as their coaches calling a good game and we looked young- we were out coached - they had all their offensive pieces in place and killed us. I don't see a lot of Longhorns talking about that rematch as TCU is still TCU. I mean we have all seen good teams come and go ..hell Kansas was #2 in the nation with a QB from Texas and then the dust settles. No Boykin and Dotson basically makes them OSU- WVU (no disrespect) catch lighting in a bottle when you have the right players but do you have enough playoff caliber athletes to get you over the hump?
Norte Dame...at least I'll be on record saying this.
Nothing against ND, TCU, ISU, or Cal
But teams that put up a lot of points or blanked us ...it's not because they were so awesome, but how terrible our offense was.
When you are 113th in passing or whatever we ranked and you are not Navy...you change coordinators.
Now our foes think.."Texas was terrible on offense and there is no way they can be better", when it's actually more likely that there's no way we can be that terrible again just by default. Look at the trend of what new coordinators do to blue bloods schools that some how end up ranked at the BOTTOM- not the middle but the bottom. It's easy to come up from the bottom ..because it's the bottom. ND is not the best offense we will see --they may be the most talented team but not most athletic team we will see all year. I'll say this with confidence as it was our scheme and not our players --we will be able to actually get first downs at some point! Do you know how crazy that will be..as a Texas to have a coordinator that runs the spread - running our spread offense...who would have ever thought that would work!!?
I see it like this OU, TCU and BU are the best offenses that we've faced. OU and BU our defensive scheme worked. TCU- it was a sad game to our D made a stop early then 30-0 in the 1st Q. Their scheme isn't that crazy awesome as much as their coaches calling a good game and we looked young- we were out coached - they had all their offensive pieces in place and killed us. I don't see a lot of Longhorns talking about that rematch as TCU is still TCU. I mean we have all seen good teams come and go ..hell Kansas was #2 in the nation with a QB from Texas and then the dust settles. No Boykin and Dotson basically makes them OSU- WVU (no disrespect) catch lighting in a bottle when you have the right players but do you have enough playoff caliber athletes to get you over the hump?
Norte Dame...at least I'll be on record saying this.
Nothing against ND, TCU, ISU, or Cal
But teams that put up a lot of points or blanked us ...it's not because they were so awesome, but how terrible our offense was.
When you are 113th in passing or whatever we ranked and you are not Navy...you change coordinators.
Now our foes think.."Texas was terrible on offense and there is no way they can be better", when it's actually more likely that there's no way we can be that terrible again just by default. Look at the trend of what new coordinators do to blue bloods schools that some how end up ranked at the BOTTOM- not the middle but the bottom. It's easy to come up from the bottom ..because it's the bottom. ND is not the best offense we will see --they may be the most talented team but not most athletic team we will see all year. I'll say this with confidence as it was our scheme and not our players --we will be able to actually get first downs at some point! Do you know how crazy that will be..as a Texas to have a coordinator that runs the spread - running our spread offense...who would have ever thought that would work!!?
OSU is tied for 10th most returning 2 deep experience in the nation. The visiting team has won the last 7. My under the radar candidate to win the Big 12.
TCU- Boykin graduated. The NFL drafted; their top two WRs and OLs, and a DB. Lost more OLs to graduation. TCU is returning the least experience in the 2 deep in the Big 12.
Cal- a bad defense gets worse. Goff and all the starting WRs departed.
Last edited:
I would like to point out people say you can't make the TCU jump in one season, but know this ..since the mid 2000's the Leach and Bries system have been slowly cranking out assistants that were close to the originators ...and where ever they go improvement follows ASAP.
I see it like this OU, TCU and BU are the best offenses that we've faced. OU and BU our defensive scheme worked. TCU- it was a sad game to our D made a stop early then 30-0 in the 1st Q. Their scheme isn't that crazy awesome as much as their coaches calling a good game and we looked young- we were out coached - they had all their offensive pieces in place and killed us. I don't see a lot of Longhorns talking about that rematch as TCU is still TCU. I mean we have all seen good teams come and go ..hell Kansas was #2 in the nation with a QB from Texas and then the dust settles. No Boykin and Dotson basically makes them OSU- WVU (no disrespect) catch lighting in a bottle when you have the right players but do you have enough playoff caliber athletes to get you over the hump?
Norte Dame...at least I'll be on record saying this.
Nothing against ND, TCU, ISU, or Cal
But teams that put up a lot of points or blanked us ...it's not because they were so awesome, but how terrible our offense was.
When you are 113th in passing or whatever we ranked and you are not Navy...you change coordinators.
Now our foes think.."Texas was terrible on offense and there is no way they can be better", when it's actually more likely that there's no way we can be that terrible again just by default. Look at the trend of what new coordinators do to blue bloods schools that some how end up ranked at the BOTTOM- not the middle but the bottom. It's easy to come up from the bottom ..because it's the bottom. ND is not the best offense we will see --they may be the most talented team but not most athletic team we will see all year. I'll say this with confidence as it was our scheme and not our players --we will be able to actually get first downs at some point! Do you know how crazy that will be..as a Texas to have a coordinator that runs the spread - running our spread offense...who would have ever thought that would work!!?
I guess it's how you define best offense? ND won't put up video game numbers like some Big12 teams do, but they should score around 35ppg this year.
Hopefully, (this is my opinion) ND will realize how big & talented they are at OLine, TE, & RB & just pound people for 4 quarters. My one complaint is that ND gets pass happy when there is no need to be. We have three dual threat, athletic QBs, three big, athletic RBs, our starting WRs/TEs are all 6-4, 200+lbs except Hunter. And our OLine is massive & has three NFL prospects on it. But we will still throw all over the field?
So ND won't score 50 like TCU, Baylor, etc., but they should be able to score 35 a game & control the clock, which can be even worse. If they just followed my game plan!
The issue is that this is incredibly surface level evaluation, that only examines/spins 1-2 weaknesses of the opposing teams, to assume a win for Texas.
All of those same teams would have a similar surface level view of Texas:
5-7 team that's never had a winning season under its current coach...and they're now starting a True Frosh QB
Those teams are deeply flawed, so I'm not saying Texas will "probably lose", but Texas is just as deeply flawed so I wouldn't say they'll "probably win" either. Those are toss-up types of games IMO
(And Texas will have a ton of them, IMO)
Guys, this thread is about Texas recruiting. Let's keep it about that. Thanks.
Reading some good updates tonight from another recruiting service. Sounds like Walker Little has Texas in front and a few have the Horns in the drivers seat.
Does that mean I can't tell how TheDicker how two faced it is to call both Cal and TCU replacing their starting QBs, one of whom was the #1 pick in the draft, a surface level view while hammering Texas for a new QB?
Back to recruiting (if anyone is following in July)...
IT: Inside Scoop
For a long time we've discussed flip-flopping the Humidor and Inside Scoop. With the Humidor posted last Friday and Justin and I just returning from Oregon, we feel now is the time to do it. The reasoning is quite simple, the Humidor builds up better to games than the Scoop does, and we'd prefer to contact kids and sources on the weekend rather than during the week, especially during the school year.
We feel this will improve both products. During the season we'll add some team stuff to the Monday Scoop and some recruiting information to the Friday Humidor.
From: Eric Nahlin
WALKER LITTLE
A reoccurring theme with the 2017 Bellaire Episcopal OT is he looks physically and fundamentally better every time I see him. I suspect this will be the case until he peaks in both regards sometime in the middle of his second NFL contract. He's adding size and strength everywhere, but notably his legs and back, and he's highly coachable as evidenced by his improving over the short time he spent in Oregon.
On Friday I talked a bit about recruiting and improving as a player. He would go on to win Opening OL MVP. That's saying quite a bit - basically over the course of the weekend Walker Little was the best offensive linemen in the country. You might not have guessed that on Friday.
Here are some quotes Little gave to a pool of reporters:
On his first day in Oregon:
"I started off a little slow but it definitely prepared me for tomorrow when we put on pads. It was a good day but I definitely gotta improve."
On what stood out about his previous UT visit:
"The new coaching staff, getting to meet all them, really get a feel for how things are changing there and get a feel for the new coaching staff. Whenever there's a new staff like that it takes a little time, but, I definitely hit it off with them it's definitely a top school right now for me.
Other schools in the mix:
"Ole Miss has been a top school for me. Stanford. Alabama, Michigan, Florida State; those have been some top schools for me so far."
Potential UT visits:
"I'll probably take another visit [to Texas] this summer and definitely in the fall. I may visit before or after [UTL camp]."
IT: I was watching you closely earlier and it looked like you were overextending. What type of coaching were they giving you?
WL: Just sit back more and get more upright. I was letting my shoulders get in front of me too much and allowing them to kind of pull me around, so, just sitting back and using my length which is something I've always been working on. These coaches out here they definitely can get you fixed a lot quicker and can help you out.
IT: Most high school offensive linemen are better run blockers but a lot of taller linemen have trouble with their pad level, what would you say you're better at, at this point; run blocking or pass blocking?
WL: Definitely it's easier for me to run block. I feel I can get under people real well. One thing for me is I'm a pretty flexible guy so I can get under people. Pass blocking is definitely something I work on all the time especially being in a spread system in high school.
ANTHONY HINES
IT: During the 1-on-1 drills versus the running backs everyone was amped up but you never seemed to lose your focus...
AH: Yes sir.
IT: ...how does that help you as a player and what are you thinking about out there?
AH: Definitely at that time I'm just thinking about the task at hand, you just got to tag them. One of the things this shows is reaction ability and sometimes you can be a little too reactive, so it's just a part of training your eyes.
[The drill is better suited for smaller, mobile linebackers as the drill requires moving forward and then laterally as backer is tasked with tagging the runner in space, but for his size, Hines' quickness (4.12 shuttle, I believe) is exceptional]
IT: What summer visits do you plan on taking?
AH: I plan on going to Florida on the 19th, Texas on the 23rd, and A&M on the 24th.
This is an interesting recruitment because sentiment ranges from 'Oklahoma lock' to 'wide open' depending on who you talk to.
One Texas source isn't feeling good on Hines, but I feel UT is in solid shape at this point. It'll be a tough recruitment, however. Justin will have a little more on Hines.
BJ FOSTER
Sometimes in recruiting you catch breaks, and sometimes you're blindsided by bad luck. With BJ Foster hailing from Angleton, home to Quentin Jammer and Quandre Diggs, it's the former.
The 2018 5-star impressed when I saw him, and when I stood next to him. He's listed by some as a running back but for practical purposes he's a safety and the early 'must-get' for his class.
IT: What's it like being out here for the first time? (because there will be a second time)
BJF: Pretty cool, seeing a lot of people out here, top guys from 2018 and 2017. It's been pretty nice.
IT: They have you working with DB's. Is that your preference?
BJF: Yes sir, I prefer DB.
IT: Does that have anything to do with Quandre talking to you about it?
BJF: [chuckling] No, I just like colliding into people and not getting hit.
IT: Don't blame you there? Do you have any other summer plans as far as visits?
BJF: I'll be at Under the Lights on the 23rd and that's probably the last thing for me.
IT: What schools would you say are recruiting you the hardest?
BJF: I couldn't say right now because they can't contact me right now because of my grade.
That's an interesting reply. Of course he's right but most elite 2018 players know who wants them the most at this point.
This is the biggest name in the 2018 class; the Jamal Adams or Jeffrey Okudah of his class. Of course it's far too early to get excited but so far so good.
CHEVIN CALLOWAY
The Bishop Dunne cornerback looks to make his (first) announcement at 5:30 today. We're expecting Iowa. Yes, Iowa.
Right now Texas is trailing for Calloway, Kary Vincent, and Jeffrey Okudah, and I couldn't less worried, because...
IF TEXAS WINS...
I have high confidence in landing Baron Browning, Walker Little, Marvin Wilson, JK Dobbins, and likely Anthony Hines. This is based off more than just intuition and obviously not a complete list (you could throw Omar Manning in there as well).
Do you think it will be tough to find corners if Texas wins and lands the above?
From: Justin Wells
Recapping The Opening and where Texas stands with some of the nation's best. Also look at backup plans in case a few UT commits go elsewhere.
MARVIN THE GIANT MARTIAN
The nation's top rated defensive tackle proved as much this weekend at The Opening in Oregon. At times, he was unreal. His athleticism, coupled with his size makes him the highly coveted prospect he is. Some of that is from his skills on the basketball court which translates to the football field quite well.
"(Playing hoops) helps me a lot in football," said Wilson. "I improve my quickness, and I'm much more agile. I'm better than most guys because I'm able to flip my hips, play defense, and box-out defenders. Most guys aren't doing that on a daily basis. It certainly helps me and gives me an edge."
Having two 5-stars from one private school is rare, even more so competing at The Opening, but Wilson and Walker Little are tight.
"(Walker) is like my brother from another mother," said Wilson. "From our freshman year to now, just look how far we've come together. It's a great feeling being here, but even better being here together."
He knocked out 225 pounds on the bench 24 times. It was the first time he'd ever done that.
"That was the first time I've actually done that," Wilson said. "I didn't know it was going to be in front of everybody. It was a great experience though seeing how I measure up with the others."
Wilson told me he's "for sure" going to be at UTL, a place where I first met him two years ago as a budding freshman beast. His mom nodded with the approval.
MORE ANTHONY HINES
One of the best inside linebackers on the 2017 class looked like he belonged in Oregon this week. Everyone likes comparisons; I see a slightly more athletic Sean Lee. After dropping his Top 10 in a YouTube video (these things are getting out of hand), he assured me Texas is squarely in the mix.
"It's a blessing to be here (The Opening) with all of my co-top players in the country," said Hines. "It shows our hard work is paying off. It's a nice view of the future. Most guys love the gear (Nike) gives you, but my favorite thing is the knowledge. It's great for matchups and comparison, to gage where you are as a prospect and future college player. It shows you what you need to work on. Going against guys like (5-star RB) Najee Harris will only make you better."
For a kid that boasts 90 D1 offers, getting it down to a Top 10 was a task.
"(That number of offers) just happened," said Hines. "It was very difficult narrowing down the Top 10. A lot of research and thinking went into the process. There were a lot of schools that were really close and just didn't make it. (Texas) landing a bunch of good linebackers is a good thing. It shows they play you early. I talk to Malik and McCulloch a lot. It'll be a great rotation of players in Austin."
I hear rumblings about Hines' leader at the moment. The names OU, A&M, and even Texas get mentioned. I think Anthony is a wait-and-see kind of kid. He says he's probable for UTL. That's a good thing. Every time he's around the Predator or the Shark, that's a positive.
JOSH THOMPSON
My man from BEast Texas did well this weekend. I thought he might be a tad overwhelmed, but after Thursday's 1-on-1's, I saw the pitbull that Brandon Jones always told me was inside him. He makes proving others wrong a profession. He might be a better take than Boyce; I'd call it a tie at this point. I know this much; you don't want him in Fort Worth with Gary Patterson. He'll be all Big 12 with the Frogs and I'd rather he be all Big 12 with the Horns.
"It's so much fun meeting the top athletes in the country and competing," said Thompson. "I've gotten a lot of experience and getting coached by some of the best. It really showed me that I can compete with best. It's been great. (Former Nac teammate, close friend, and Texas DB, Brandon Jones) has been texting me everyday. He told me to just do what I do and ball out, and I'll be just fine. And he was right."
Despite being a TCU commit, he still hears from Texas on the regular.
"(Texas) stays in touch with me," said Thompson. "I talk to coach Traylor a lot. I'm going to try to make the UTL camp in late July."
Thompson is Kobe Boyce insurance, and JT might have more upside. He's definitely got more dog in him.
THE OPENING RECAPPED
A few parting shots from The Opening and Elite 11 in Oregon:
Sam Ehlinger (QB) was solid to good. He had a sore shoulder (not injured) that he was being cautious with. Can you blame him? Also, the 7-on-7 scene isn't where Sam excels. It's the football field and the locker room. I'd say he was a Top 6-7 signal-caller at Nike. Not many big throws, but not many mistakes either. Sam recruiting in Oregon was more valuable than Sam throwing the pigskin in a flag football setting.
Omar Manning (WR) was hindered by a hamstring before he landed. It flared up 10 minutes into drills on Tuesday. His competitive juices kept him coming back each day ready to perform. But his trainers and coaching staff insisted he sit out most of the event. That was the smart move. I saw enough to know he might be the best receiver in Texas in a loaded WR class.
Dylan Moses (LB) showed why he's one of the best athletes in the country. I will say I haven't seen much difference in last year's build or ability, but this is a player we've known since 8th grade. Is Texas his top school? No. Will Texas get an official visit? Yes. A lot has to happen for Moses to call Austin home, but you never know. Cross your fingers.
BJ Foster (S) put on a show. He furthered cemented his status as the best player in Texas for 2018. That dude looks like Sean Taylor in the defensive backfield. He'll visit Under the Lights. He'll have Texas in the mix as long as the Horns look good moving forward. It's early, but trending nicely. The Mayor of Angleton (Quandre Diggs) will make sure of it.
K'Lavon Chaisson (OLB) has a freakish first step. He's explosive and plays bigger than his lanky frame. He was born to play in Strong's defense. Like he told me on Friday, he's slowly starting to realize that.
Xavier Newman (OL) was one of the more inconsistent participants this week. He was definitely one of the smaller linemen but also quicker and more versatile.
BACKUP PLANS
In Saturday's Scoop I talked about a few UT commits that were possibly less than committed. As of today, Tennison, Newman, and Boyce are all still Longhorns. Major might visit this week. Kobe wants to attend UTL. Newman, well...Xavier might be mentally checked out. We'll just have to let it unfold.
But don't think Texas doesn't have contingencies in place. They're always prepared. Here are a few names to watch if worse comes to worse.
If they lose Newman: Dennis Bardwell, Huffman Hargrave (6-foot-6, 275 - Houston commit). Bardwell is an animal. He mainly plays guard in HS, but despite his height, I think UT can see him at center. He might be a take even if Newman bolts. Mattox likes, that's enough for me.
If they lose Boyce: Josh Thompson, Nacogdoches (6-foot-0, 180 - TCU commit). See above.
If they lose Tennison: Brian Polenday, Denton Guyer (6-foot-5, 225 - Miami commit). Don't get it twisted, I'd rather have Major because he's a walking mismatch and the more talented player. And if he visits this week, Strong can smooth things out. But Polenday, from purely a blocking standpoint, might be a better fit. My man Jonathan Wells can find tight ends. So can Jeff Traylor. Keep your eyes on this one.
IT: Inside Scoop
For a long time we've discussed flip-flopping the Humidor and Inside Scoop. With the Humidor posted last Friday and Justin and I just returning from Oregon, we feel now is the time to do it. The reasoning is quite simple, the Humidor builds up better to games than the Scoop does, and we'd prefer to contact kids and sources on the weekend rather than during the week, especially during the school year.
We feel this will improve both products. During the season we'll add some team stuff to the Monday Scoop and some recruiting information to the Friday Humidor.
From: Eric Nahlin
WALKER LITTLE
A reoccurring theme with the 2017 Bellaire Episcopal OT is he looks physically and fundamentally better every time I see him. I suspect this will be the case until he peaks in both regards sometime in the middle of his second NFL contract. He's adding size and strength everywhere, but notably his legs and back, and he's highly coachable as evidenced by his improving over the short time he spent in Oregon.
On Friday I talked a bit about recruiting and improving as a player. He would go on to win Opening OL MVP. That's saying quite a bit - basically over the course of the weekend Walker Little was the best offensive linemen in the country. You might not have guessed that on Friday.
Here are some quotes Little gave to a pool of reporters:
On his first day in Oregon:
"I started off a little slow but it definitely prepared me for tomorrow when we put on pads. It was a good day but I definitely gotta improve."
On what stood out about his previous UT visit:
"The new coaching staff, getting to meet all them, really get a feel for how things are changing there and get a feel for the new coaching staff. Whenever there's a new staff like that it takes a little time, but, I definitely hit it off with them it's definitely a top school right now for me.
Other schools in the mix:
"Ole Miss has been a top school for me. Stanford. Alabama, Michigan, Florida State; those have been some top schools for me so far."
Potential UT visits:
"I'll probably take another visit [to Texas] this summer and definitely in the fall. I may visit before or after [UTL camp]."
IT: I was watching you closely earlier and it looked like you were overextending. What type of coaching were they giving you?
WL: Just sit back more and get more upright. I was letting my shoulders get in front of me too much and allowing them to kind of pull me around, so, just sitting back and using my length which is something I've always been working on. These coaches out here they definitely can get you fixed a lot quicker and can help you out.
IT: Most high school offensive linemen are better run blockers but a lot of taller linemen have trouble with their pad level, what would you say you're better at, at this point; run blocking or pass blocking?
WL: Definitely it's easier for me to run block. I feel I can get under people real well. One thing for me is I'm a pretty flexible guy so I can get under people. Pass blocking is definitely something I work on all the time especially being in a spread system in high school.
ANTHONY HINES
IT: During the 1-on-1 drills versus the running backs everyone was amped up but you never seemed to lose your focus...
AH: Yes sir.
IT: ...how does that help you as a player and what are you thinking about out there?
AH: Definitely at that time I'm just thinking about the task at hand, you just got to tag them. One of the things this shows is reaction ability and sometimes you can be a little too reactive, so it's just a part of training your eyes.
[The drill is better suited for smaller, mobile linebackers as the drill requires moving forward and then laterally as backer is tasked with tagging the runner in space, but for his size, Hines' quickness (4.12 shuttle, I believe) is exceptional]
IT: What summer visits do you plan on taking?
AH: I plan on going to Florida on the 19th, Texas on the 23rd, and A&M on the 24th.
This is an interesting recruitment because sentiment ranges from 'Oklahoma lock' to 'wide open' depending on who you talk to.
One Texas source isn't feeling good on Hines, but I feel UT is in solid shape at this point. It'll be a tough recruitment, however. Justin will have a little more on Hines.
BJ FOSTER
Sometimes in recruiting you catch breaks, and sometimes you're blindsided by bad luck. With BJ Foster hailing from Angleton, home to Quentin Jammer and Quandre Diggs, it's the former.
The 2018 5-star impressed when I saw him, and when I stood next to him. He's listed by some as a running back but for practical purposes he's a safety and the early 'must-get' for his class.
IT: What's it like being out here for the first time? (because there will be a second time)
BJF: Pretty cool, seeing a lot of people out here, top guys from 2018 and 2017. It's been pretty nice.
IT: They have you working with DB's. Is that your preference?
BJF: Yes sir, I prefer DB.
IT: Does that have anything to do with Quandre talking to you about it?
BJF: [chuckling] No, I just like colliding into people and not getting hit.
IT: Don't blame you there? Do you have any other summer plans as far as visits?
BJF: I'll be at Under the Lights on the 23rd and that's probably the last thing for me.
IT: What schools would you say are recruiting you the hardest?
BJF: I couldn't say right now because they can't contact me right now because of my grade.
That's an interesting reply. Of course he's right but most elite 2018 players know who wants them the most at this point.
This is the biggest name in the 2018 class; the Jamal Adams or Jeffrey Okudah of his class. Of course it's far too early to get excited but so far so good.
CHEVIN CALLOWAY
The Bishop Dunne cornerback looks to make his (first) announcement at 5:30 today. We're expecting Iowa. Yes, Iowa.
Right now Texas is trailing for Calloway, Kary Vincent, and Jeffrey Okudah, and I couldn't less worried, because...
IF TEXAS WINS...
I have high confidence in landing Baron Browning, Walker Little, Marvin Wilson, JK Dobbins, and likely Anthony Hines. This is based off more than just intuition and obviously not a complete list (you could throw Omar Manning in there as well).
Do you think it will be tough to find corners if Texas wins and lands the above?
From: Justin Wells
Recapping The Opening and where Texas stands with some of the nation's best. Also look at backup plans in case a few UT commits go elsewhere.
MARVIN THE GIANT MARTIAN
The nation's top rated defensive tackle proved as much this weekend at The Opening in Oregon. At times, he was unreal. His athleticism, coupled with his size makes him the highly coveted prospect he is. Some of that is from his skills on the basketball court which translates to the football field quite well.
"(Playing hoops) helps me a lot in football," said Wilson. "I improve my quickness, and I'm much more agile. I'm better than most guys because I'm able to flip my hips, play defense, and box-out defenders. Most guys aren't doing that on a daily basis. It certainly helps me and gives me an edge."
Having two 5-stars from one private school is rare, even more so competing at The Opening, but Wilson and Walker Little are tight.
"(Walker) is like my brother from another mother," said Wilson. "From our freshman year to now, just look how far we've come together. It's a great feeling being here, but even better being here together."
He knocked out 225 pounds on the bench 24 times. It was the first time he'd ever done that.
"That was the first time I've actually done that," Wilson said. "I didn't know it was going to be in front of everybody. It was a great experience though seeing how I measure up with the others."
Wilson told me he's "for sure" going to be at UTL, a place where I first met him two years ago as a budding freshman beast. His mom nodded with the approval.
MORE ANTHONY HINES
One of the best inside linebackers on the 2017 class looked like he belonged in Oregon this week. Everyone likes comparisons; I see a slightly more athletic Sean Lee. After dropping his Top 10 in a YouTube video (these things are getting out of hand), he assured me Texas is squarely in the mix.
"It's a blessing to be here (The Opening) with all of my co-top players in the country," said Hines. "It shows our hard work is paying off. It's a nice view of the future. Most guys love the gear (Nike) gives you, but my favorite thing is the knowledge. It's great for matchups and comparison, to gage where you are as a prospect and future college player. It shows you what you need to work on. Going against guys like (5-star RB) Najee Harris will only make you better."
For a kid that boasts 90 D1 offers, getting it down to a Top 10 was a task.
"(That number of offers) just happened," said Hines. "It was very difficult narrowing down the Top 10. A lot of research and thinking went into the process. There were a lot of schools that were really close and just didn't make it. (Texas) landing a bunch of good linebackers is a good thing. It shows they play you early. I talk to Malik and McCulloch a lot. It'll be a great rotation of players in Austin."
I hear rumblings about Hines' leader at the moment. The names OU, A&M, and even Texas get mentioned. I think Anthony is a wait-and-see kind of kid. He says he's probable for UTL. That's a good thing. Every time he's around the Predator or the Shark, that's a positive.
JOSH THOMPSON
My man from BEast Texas did well this weekend. I thought he might be a tad overwhelmed, but after Thursday's 1-on-1's, I saw the pitbull that Brandon Jones always told me was inside him. He makes proving others wrong a profession. He might be a better take than Boyce; I'd call it a tie at this point. I know this much; you don't want him in Fort Worth with Gary Patterson. He'll be all Big 12 with the Frogs and I'd rather he be all Big 12 with the Horns.
"It's so much fun meeting the top athletes in the country and competing," said Thompson. "I've gotten a lot of experience and getting coached by some of the best. It really showed me that I can compete with best. It's been great. (Former Nac teammate, close friend, and Texas DB, Brandon Jones) has been texting me everyday. He told me to just do what I do and ball out, and I'll be just fine. And he was right."
Despite being a TCU commit, he still hears from Texas on the regular.
"(Texas) stays in touch with me," said Thompson. "I talk to coach Traylor a lot. I'm going to try to make the UTL camp in late July."
Thompson is Kobe Boyce insurance, and JT might have more upside. He's definitely got more dog in him.
THE OPENING RECAPPED
A few parting shots from The Opening and Elite 11 in Oregon:
Sam Ehlinger (QB) was solid to good. He had a sore shoulder (not injured) that he was being cautious with. Can you blame him? Also, the 7-on-7 scene isn't where Sam excels. It's the football field and the locker room. I'd say he was a Top 6-7 signal-caller at Nike. Not many big throws, but not many mistakes either. Sam recruiting in Oregon was more valuable than Sam throwing the pigskin in a flag football setting.
Omar Manning (WR) was hindered by a hamstring before he landed. It flared up 10 minutes into drills on Tuesday. His competitive juices kept him coming back each day ready to perform. But his trainers and coaching staff insisted he sit out most of the event. That was the smart move. I saw enough to know he might be the best receiver in Texas in a loaded WR class.
Dylan Moses (LB) showed why he's one of the best athletes in the country. I will say I haven't seen much difference in last year's build or ability, but this is a player we've known since 8th grade. Is Texas his top school? No. Will Texas get an official visit? Yes. A lot has to happen for Moses to call Austin home, but you never know. Cross your fingers.
BJ Foster (S) put on a show. He furthered cemented his status as the best player in Texas for 2018. That dude looks like Sean Taylor in the defensive backfield. He'll visit Under the Lights. He'll have Texas in the mix as long as the Horns look good moving forward. It's early, but trending nicely. The Mayor of Angleton (Quandre Diggs) will make sure of it.
K'Lavon Chaisson (OLB) has a freakish first step. He's explosive and plays bigger than his lanky frame. He was born to play in Strong's defense. Like he told me on Friday, he's slowly starting to realize that.
Xavier Newman (OL) was one of the more inconsistent participants this week. He was definitely one of the smaller linemen but also quicker and more versatile.
BACKUP PLANS
In Saturday's Scoop I talked about a few UT commits that were possibly less than committed. As of today, Tennison, Newman, and Boyce are all still Longhorns. Major might visit this week. Kobe wants to attend UTL. Newman, well...Xavier might be mentally checked out. We'll just have to let it unfold.
But don't think Texas doesn't have contingencies in place. They're always prepared. Here are a few names to watch if worse comes to worse.
If they lose Newman: Dennis Bardwell, Huffman Hargrave (6-foot-6, 275 - Houston commit). Bardwell is an animal. He mainly plays guard in HS, but despite his height, I think UT can see him at center. He might be a take even if Newman bolts. Mattox likes, that's enough for me.
If they lose Boyce: Josh Thompson, Nacogdoches (6-foot-0, 180 - TCU commit). See above.
If they lose Tennison: Brian Polenday, Denton Guyer (6-foot-5, 225 - Miami commit). Don't get it twisted, I'd rather have Major because he's a walking mismatch and the more talented player. And if he visits this week, Strong can smooth things out. But Polenday, from purely a blocking standpoint, might be a better fit. My man Jonathan Wells can find tight ends. So can Jeff Traylor. Keep your eyes on this one.
If UT was his dream school and they promise to throw the ball to the TE, then what's the problem. It has to go with folks in his ear pulling him this way and that way. Maybe he will wake up. Maybe he will not but I know if I was in his shoes and had the opportunity to play at my dream school, the coaches love me, play in my home state with alot of beautiful women around me and great academic support. I have no ill will towards him for his decision. I hope we don't see the StrongHold curse ie Mack Brown curse
Nope, we have a badass athlete that will grow into a even badder ass TE.
His name is Lil'Jordan Humphrey.
All is well.
Now this MAN is a beast! Crystal balls trending our way for him. Has become the number 2 player in the nation from his showing at the opening. Still a long time till signing day.
Hook 'Em
Little is a hell of a prospect, he may have been the number 1 ot prospect last year as well. Looks like a 3 way race between you guys, Stanford and ole miss
I don't think he has the frame to add 30-40lbs for playing on the line.
Looking forward to seeing him and CJ, at the same time, on corner routes in the end zone.
Anthony Hines confirmed for UTL. Decided to skip aggy's little barbecue.
If memory serves last year Strong kept the actual date of UTL unpublished to keep teams from trying to dissuade kids from coming. This year the date is known and Rumlin schedules a counter event on the same date and none of the blue chips are going to it?
Are any of the blue chips going to the that event in BCS?
Are any of the blue chips going to the that event in BCS?
Pretty much all but a couple of the undecided guys in the state of Texas top 35.
Okudah is going to be the one that got away this year. Family moved to Texas in the last few years and he want to go back East.
I was seconding your question about aggy's embarrassing flop of an event.
Last edited:
NAMES TO KNOW AT UNDER THE LIGHTS (E.Nahlin):
The best of the best from 2017 are household names; Baron Browning, Sam Ehlinger, Anthony Hines, Taquon Graham, and Marvin Wilson. We know these guys.
Here are more guys to know before Saturday's big event:
Bumper Pool, LB - Lucas Lovejoy (2018): The Teddy Lehman clone is becoming a hot commodity, and holds Alabama and A&M offers. Prototypical MLB. Likes Texas.
Kalen Barnes, ATH - Silsbee (2018): Elite athlete that plays multi sports, Barnes can play both ways but excels with the ball in his hands.
Calvin Avery, DL - Dallas Bishop Dunne (2018): Texas covets d-lineman and Avery is one of the best.
Jarell Cherry, OLB/DE - Dallas Carter (2018): Put on a show at UT's satellite camp in Dallas last month. Offer watch.
BJ Foster, DB/RB/Anywhere he wants to play - Angleton (2018): Before the Opening, I thought Foster might be the best player in Texas for 2018. After leaving Oregon, I'm convinced he is. Must-get and Texas fan.
Josh Thompson, CB - Nacogdoches (2017): The TCU pledge is going to sneak to Austin to "visit" Brandon Jones. If Kobe Boyce wants to build his own Field of Dreams at some point in the cycle, Thompson, as Rod Roddy would say, can come on down.
Eric will breakdown each known participant in a UTL preview for Thursday.
Of note, Texas needs to do a better job of scheduling camps and events. Sending out invitations sooner, contacting kids earlier.
One example is 2019 super athlete Jordan Whittington. The freak from Cuero, who was recently offered by TCU, will be attending Texas A&M's camp instead of UTL because he didn't know about UT's until after he already made plans. This isn't the first time I've heard this. Anthony Hines (2017 - ILB) and Bobby Brown (2018 - DT) are other examples.
Hines says he'll make it in, which is huge. Marvin Wilson says the same. But let's send out notices sooner so that UTL can be the event of the summer.
TEXAS HUNTS TIGHT ENDS
1. Camron Horry. The 6-foot-5, 255-pound A&M commit from Katy Taylor is a name to know. His dad is Robert Horry, who holds seven NBA titles with Houston, Los Angeles, and San Antonio. So success is a family tradition. He fits what Texas wants and is more open than Aggies will admit. Horry holds offers from LSU, Arkansas, and Illinois; schools that like to line up with dual-TEs and excel in blocking.
"I see myself as a mix between Rob Gronkowski and Antonio Gates," said Horry. "I'm looking forward to seeing LSU (next weekend). I've been down there a few times."
As for Texas, they're on his radar. They've contacted him recently and are looking to build on the
relationship.
Horry will visit Baton Rouge this weekend, but hopes to hear more from Texas. I bet he will.
2. Dayo Odeyingbo. The 6-foot-5, 245-pounder from Carrolton Ranchview is an interesting prospect. He recently committed to Vanderbilt so you know the grades aren't Devo-ish. Michigan, OU, Texas A&M, Mississippi State, and Colorado have all offered, so there's something there.
One source says the staff really likes him but he's raw and might take seasoning before he could make an impact. He's a fit nonetheless. We'll pay attention to him.
3. Parker Eichenberger. The 6-foot-4, 230-pound Houston pledge from Katy is a project that needs time to grow. Gilbert's veer and shoot prefers the size to skill, and the blocking side of the TE rather than the catching side. Eichenberger would need a few years in Moorer's S&C program before he'd be a major contributor. He's got a decent offer list (Illinois, UNLV, North Texas, UTSA) while Texas and Michigan have shown interest. The Horns would have to miss out on a handful to pursue at this point.
4. Brian Polenday. The 6-foot-5, 230-pounder from Denton Guyer is all about the U. His dad recently transferred to Tampa and with the hire of Mark Richt, he'll be tough to flip from Miami.
5. Brock Wright. The state's top TE and Cypress Fair product is all Notre Dame. One college coach told me he's the best tight end in Texas in the last five years. The only way he talks to Texas is if they go 10-2, make a great bowl, and get lucky. Long shot at best.
OKUDAH
Something else we were asked about this week is the supposed rift between defensive back coach Clay Jennings, and high school DB guru, Clay Mack. I have no idea where that came from but I asked Mack about it. I know Mack from covering Jamal Adams years ago and he’s a straight-shooting alpha.
Clay M. doesn’t overstep his boundaries. He’s a DB coach and that’s it unless a client asks him to be more. Because of his reputation he does have very strong relationships with coaches across the country but he doesn’t interject in recruiting, that’s not his business model.
He knows Clay Jennings but that’s about it. They aren’t close, but they don’t need to be. There isn’t any bad blood or animosity.
The reason Texas is behind for Okudah has more to do with actual recruiting. UT was “late” (I know) with the offer, relatively speaking, and has never really caught up. Strong’s recruiting model will lead to situations like this, but he usually works his way back into the mix.
Texas needs to replace OU as the close-to-home option. If it does then things will get interesting because there are some who believe he may not want to get too far away from home. I believe Clemson and FSU are further than he’d like. Ohio State isn’t exactly close but they’ve done a great job with him throughout.
Okudah has wisely pulled back the reins on his recruitment to get a clearer view of the landscape. He’s not the type to be impressionable if Texas wins and pick a school based on where his friends are going, though he and Browning wouldn’t mind playing together.
He’s making a business decision and that’s actually a good thing. Speaking of business…
BROWNING
Said a source, “Browning’s corporate in the way he goes about things. He’s like Malik that way.” The source added, “He doesn’t need the coach who yells at you because he’s having a bad day, but he also doesn’t need his ego massaged.” That’s also like Malik.
I don’t make much of Twitter musings, but when Browning stated Malik gave him a lot to think about, on and off the field, that stated a lot. Those two are extremely similar as far as personality goes.
Some kids are Texas kids and you just know it. Hell, half the time we know it before they do. Browning has that feel.
MURRAY
Kenneth Murray (Elsik) is one of the more underrated linebackers in the nation. He has a great body projection, and has elite coverage ability for the position.
He grew up loving Texas and when it offered I thought the suspense was entirely removed from this recruitment. Not so fast.
I talked with someone close to him and that person went from my confidence level to being on the fence. Murray stated that Texas is recruiting him every bit as hard as A&M and that he talks or messages with the coaches on a nearly daily basis.
Murray is set to announce in less than a month and is an early enrollee.
I like him as the Kobe Boyce version of linebacker; real, athletic upside, but also a guy who protects you as much as he can from the big misses.
Murray will be at UTL. If Strong loves on him like he does his priority targets, this one could swing Texas for good.
A&M just landed Devodrick Johnson from Dallas Kimball. Landing Murray and Johnson would be a fantastically athletic duo but I'm still picking Texas
Murray announces on August 10th and is an early enrollee.
BOYCE
We were pretty vocal about being worried about Boyce’s philandering eye recently but I hear the Iowa fire has been put out, at least for now. The Lake Dallas corner is saying all the right things….loves his fit at Texas, wants to join the last two recruiting classes, etc.
This is a good development.
MORDECAI
I am a fan of Tanner Mordecai, Waco Midway. He has a whip, he’s a plus athlete – he’s my favorite type of quarterback, a guy who can dual either way equally well.
The 2018 picked up a lot of steam during the spring with offers from Oklahoma State, Houston, and Texas Tech. Not bad considering he split time with a senior who committed to Rice.
Mordecai tells me he’s been invited to UTL and he’s trying to make it but it’s contingent upon his parents.
He’s also been invited to A&M, where his father graduated. Dad’s alma mater isn’t said to be a sticking point but I’d bet A&M offers before Texas simply because the UT staff is in absolutely no hurry to offer quarterbacks.
ZABIE
Stephan Zabie from Westlake is one of the most interesting prospects in 2017. I can envision any future for the 2017 OT. He’s big, athletic, and as raw as you’d expect someone with his limited experience to be.
We get asked about him from time to time. He’ll be at Alabama next weekend and hasn’t been hearing much from Texas which he characterized as “disappointing.” I think UT could work its way back into it if it needs to but just as Ondario Robinson not being pushed hard by the staff is a good sign, so too is this. UT’s lack of pursuit means it feels really good with Walker Little, as it should.
NUMBERS (19)
QB-1
RB-1
TE-1
WR-3
OL-3
DL-3
LB-3
DB-4
Numbers are always re-workable but this is about how it looks.
The best of the best from 2017 are household names; Baron Browning, Sam Ehlinger, Anthony Hines, Taquon Graham, and Marvin Wilson. We know these guys.
Here are more guys to know before Saturday's big event:
Bumper Pool, LB - Lucas Lovejoy (2018): The Teddy Lehman clone is becoming a hot commodity, and holds Alabama and A&M offers. Prototypical MLB. Likes Texas.
Kalen Barnes, ATH - Silsbee (2018): Elite athlete that plays multi sports, Barnes can play both ways but excels with the ball in his hands.
Calvin Avery, DL - Dallas Bishop Dunne (2018): Texas covets d-lineman and Avery is one of the best.
Jarell Cherry, OLB/DE - Dallas Carter (2018): Put on a show at UT's satellite camp in Dallas last month. Offer watch.
BJ Foster, DB/RB/Anywhere he wants to play - Angleton (2018): Before the Opening, I thought Foster might be the best player in Texas for 2018. After leaving Oregon, I'm convinced he is. Must-get and Texas fan.
Josh Thompson, CB - Nacogdoches (2017): The TCU pledge is going to sneak to Austin to "visit" Brandon Jones. If Kobe Boyce wants to build his own Field of Dreams at some point in the cycle, Thompson, as Rod Roddy would say, can come on down.
Eric will breakdown each known participant in a UTL preview for Thursday.
Of note, Texas needs to do a better job of scheduling camps and events. Sending out invitations sooner, contacting kids earlier.
One example is 2019 super athlete Jordan Whittington. The freak from Cuero, who was recently offered by TCU, will be attending Texas A&M's camp instead of UTL because he didn't know about UT's until after he already made plans. This isn't the first time I've heard this. Anthony Hines (2017 - ILB) and Bobby Brown (2018 - DT) are other examples.
Hines says he'll make it in, which is huge. Marvin Wilson says the same. But let's send out notices sooner so that UTL can be the event of the summer.
TEXAS HUNTS TIGHT ENDS
1. Camron Horry. The 6-foot-5, 255-pound A&M commit from Katy Taylor is a name to know. His dad is Robert Horry, who holds seven NBA titles with Houston, Los Angeles, and San Antonio. So success is a family tradition. He fits what Texas wants and is more open than Aggies will admit. Horry holds offers from LSU, Arkansas, and Illinois; schools that like to line up with dual-TEs and excel in blocking.
"I see myself as a mix between Rob Gronkowski and Antonio Gates," said Horry. "I'm looking forward to seeing LSU (next weekend). I've been down there a few times."
As for Texas, they're on his radar. They've contacted him recently and are looking to build on the
relationship.
Horry will visit Baton Rouge this weekend, but hopes to hear more from Texas. I bet he will.
2. Dayo Odeyingbo. The 6-foot-5, 245-pounder from Carrolton Ranchview is an interesting prospect. He recently committed to Vanderbilt so you know the grades aren't Devo-ish. Michigan, OU, Texas A&M, Mississippi State, and Colorado have all offered, so there's something there.
One source says the staff really likes him but he's raw and might take seasoning before he could make an impact. He's a fit nonetheless. We'll pay attention to him.
3. Parker Eichenberger. The 6-foot-4, 230-pound Houston pledge from Katy is a project that needs time to grow. Gilbert's veer and shoot prefers the size to skill, and the blocking side of the TE rather than the catching side. Eichenberger would need a few years in Moorer's S&C program before he'd be a major contributor. He's got a decent offer list (Illinois, UNLV, North Texas, UTSA) while Texas and Michigan have shown interest. The Horns would have to miss out on a handful to pursue at this point.
4. Brian Polenday. The 6-foot-5, 230-pounder from Denton Guyer is all about the U. His dad recently transferred to Tampa and with the hire of Mark Richt, he'll be tough to flip from Miami.
5. Brock Wright. The state's top TE and Cypress Fair product is all Notre Dame. One college coach told me he's the best tight end in Texas in the last five years. The only way he talks to Texas is if they go 10-2, make a great bowl, and get lucky. Long shot at best.
OKUDAH
Something else we were asked about this week is the supposed rift between defensive back coach Clay Jennings, and high school DB guru, Clay Mack. I have no idea where that came from but I asked Mack about it. I know Mack from covering Jamal Adams years ago and he’s a straight-shooting alpha.
Clay M. doesn’t overstep his boundaries. He’s a DB coach and that’s it unless a client asks him to be more. Because of his reputation he does have very strong relationships with coaches across the country but he doesn’t interject in recruiting, that’s not his business model.
He knows Clay Jennings but that’s about it. They aren’t close, but they don’t need to be. There isn’t any bad blood or animosity.
The reason Texas is behind for Okudah has more to do with actual recruiting. UT was “late” (I know) with the offer, relatively speaking, and has never really caught up. Strong’s recruiting model will lead to situations like this, but he usually works his way back into the mix.
Texas needs to replace OU as the close-to-home option. If it does then things will get interesting because there are some who believe he may not want to get too far away from home. I believe Clemson and FSU are further than he’d like. Ohio State isn’t exactly close but they’ve done a great job with him throughout.
Okudah has wisely pulled back the reins on his recruitment to get a clearer view of the landscape. He’s not the type to be impressionable if Texas wins and pick a school based on where his friends are going, though he and Browning wouldn’t mind playing together.
He’s making a business decision and that’s actually a good thing. Speaking of business…
BROWNING
Said a source, “Browning’s corporate in the way he goes about things. He’s like Malik that way.” The source added, “He doesn’t need the coach who yells at you because he’s having a bad day, but he also doesn’t need his ego massaged.” That’s also like Malik.
I don’t make much of Twitter musings, but when Browning stated Malik gave him a lot to think about, on and off the field, that stated a lot. Those two are extremely similar as far as personality goes.
Some kids are Texas kids and you just know it. Hell, half the time we know it before they do. Browning has that feel.
MURRAY
Kenneth Murray (Elsik) is one of the more underrated linebackers in the nation. He has a great body projection, and has elite coverage ability for the position.
He grew up loving Texas and when it offered I thought the suspense was entirely removed from this recruitment. Not so fast.
I talked with someone close to him and that person went from my confidence level to being on the fence. Murray stated that Texas is recruiting him every bit as hard as A&M and that he talks or messages with the coaches on a nearly daily basis.
Murray is set to announce in less than a month and is an early enrollee.
I like him as the Kobe Boyce version of linebacker; real, athletic upside, but also a guy who protects you as much as he can from the big misses.
Murray will be at UTL. If Strong loves on him like he does his priority targets, this one could swing Texas for good.
A&M just landed Devodrick Johnson from Dallas Kimball. Landing Murray and Johnson would be a fantastically athletic duo but I'm still picking Texas
Murray announces on August 10th and is an early enrollee.
BOYCE
We were pretty vocal about being worried about Boyce’s philandering eye recently but I hear the Iowa fire has been put out, at least for now. The Lake Dallas corner is saying all the right things….loves his fit at Texas, wants to join the last two recruiting classes, etc.
This is a good development.
MORDECAI
I am a fan of Tanner Mordecai, Waco Midway. He has a whip, he’s a plus athlete – he’s my favorite type of quarterback, a guy who can dual either way equally well.
The 2018 picked up a lot of steam during the spring with offers from Oklahoma State, Houston, and Texas Tech. Not bad considering he split time with a senior who committed to Rice.
Mordecai tells me he’s been invited to UTL and he’s trying to make it but it’s contingent upon his parents.
He’s also been invited to A&M, where his father graduated. Dad’s alma mater isn’t said to be a sticking point but I’d bet A&M offers before Texas simply because the UT staff is in absolutely no hurry to offer quarterbacks.
ZABIE
Stephan Zabie from Westlake is one of the most interesting prospects in 2017. I can envision any future for the 2017 OT. He’s big, athletic, and as raw as you’d expect someone with his limited experience to be.
We get asked about him from time to time. He’ll be at Alabama next weekend and hasn’t been hearing much from Texas which he characterized as “disappointing.” I think UT could work its way back into it if it needs to but just as Ondario Robinson not being pushed hard by the staff is a good sign, so too is this. UT’s lack of pursuit means it feels really good with Walker Little, as it should.
NUMBERS (19)
QB-1
RB-1
TE-1
WR-3
OL-3
DL-3
LB-3
DB-4
Numbers are always re-workable but this is about how it looks.
OB articles
Suchomel might be on vacation, but he sent some notes and quotes from his conversations with Sam Ehlinger last week that were left on the cutting room floor.
On Todd Dodge: “He’s awesome. He has taught me a lot on and off the field, how to handle everything because he’s been there. It’s been really good.”
b. On Dodge’s ability to coach QBs: “It’s a blessing. When I heard he was going to be our coach, it was music to my ears. It was awesome.”
c. On what he thinks his late dad would tell him today: “Just keep working hard, keep doing the things I’m able to do out here. Just continue to work hard.”
D. His trainer Jessica Vaiana has been working with since he was 14 and she had some interesting insight on him as a person/athlete.
“Knowing him from when he first started, he was a kid,” Vaiana said. “Now he’s still a kid, but the maturity has really flipped in the beginning to middle of last football season. He just changed, got a lot older mentally.
“It’s strange. When a kid is 14, that’s a young kid. He had a lot of immaturity about him, but at the same time, when we would get to work, he would just go to work, which is pretty rare for that age. It’s even pretty rare for a kid that’s 17. He’s just a different kid. He’s a level above kids and athletes his age.
“He’s so even-keel. He doesn’t get too high or too low about anything, which I think serves him well.
On recruiting other players: "He wants to win no matter what, and he’ll do whatever he needs to do in order to do that. He’s done great in cultivating relationships with these kids they’re trying to bring on. He’s on their twitter, he’s texting them. And he’s burnt orange to the absolute core, so he’s selling that."
(Suchomel)
Suchomel might be on vacation, but he sent some notes and quotes from his conversations with Sam Ehlinger last week that were left on the cutting room floor.
On Todd Dodge: “He’s awesome. He has taught me a lot on and off the field, how to handle everything because he’s been there. It’s been really good.”
b. On Dodge’s ability to coach QBs: “It’s a blessing. When I heard he was going to be our coach, it was music to my ears. It was awesome.”
c. On what he thinks his late dad would tell him today: “Just keep working hard, keep doing the things I’m able to do out here. Just continue to work hard.”
D. His trainer Jessica Vaiana has been working with since he was 14 and she had some interesting insight on him as a person/athlete.
“Knowing him from when he first started, he was a kid,” Vaiana said. “Now he’s still a kid, but the maturity has really flipped in the beginning to middle of last football season. He just changed, got a lot older mentally.
“It’s strange. When a kid is 14, that’s a young kid. He had a lot of immaturity about him, but at the same time, when we would get to work, he would just go to work, which is pretty rare for that age. It’s even pretty rare for a kid that’s 17. He’s just a different kid. He’s a level above kids and athletes his age.
“He’s so even-keel. He doesn’t get too high or too low about anything, which I think serves him well.
On recruiting other players: "He wants to win no matter what, and he’ll do whatever he needs to do in order to do that. He’s done great in cultivating relationships with these kids they’re trying to bring on. He’s on their twitter, he’s texting them. And he’s burnt orange to the absolute core, so he’s selling that."
(Suchomel)
E.J. Holland: Texas moving up for K'Lavon Chaisson
Galena Park North Shore defensive end K’Lavon Chaisson isn’t a big social media guy. Chaisson hardly does interviews and doesn’t even respond to most coaches. But last month, the four-star prospect took to Twitter to release his Top 10 schools. Unlike most prospects, Chaisson put his out in order with Oklahoma, Houston and LSU leading the way. Texas survived the cut but was listed dead last. Since then, however, the Longhorns have made a big push for Chaisson and now sit near the top.
“They’ve definitely jumped up now,” Chaisson said. “I think they should be like No. 4 on my list. At first, I hadn’t really talked to Texas. It was my fault because I don’t really talk a lot. But when I reached out to them, they gave me a lot of good information. Their academics are really high. They are ranked No. 16 in business, and that’s what I want to major in. That definitely caught my eye. It’s not too far or too close to home, so it’s a good place for me.”
Texas defensive line coach Brick Haley coached Chaisson’s father, so the two have a good relationship. But defensive coordinator Vance Bedford is actually the coach in charge of recruitment. Chaisson said he feels he has a good relationship with the staff now and wants to continue to not only get to know them more but also learn about the defensive scheme. “Coach Haley coached my dad,” Chaisson said. “But I’ve been talking more to Coach Bedford more. Overall, the connections are good, but I care more about how they plan to use me. What are you going to do with me?”
The answer to that question is simple. Texas is enamored with Chaisson’s ability to rush the quarterback and is recruiting him as a ‘Fox’ end. “They want me as a Fox end,” Chaisson said. “I really like it. I want to watch more film but from what I’ve seen, I love it.” Chaisson said he might visit Texas for Under The Lights, nothing is set in stone at this time. He also hopes to make trips to Florida State and LSU before the summer comes to an end. At 6-foot-4, 211 pounds, Chaisson is ranked as the No. 5 weak-side defensive end in the country and No. 13 overall prospect in the state, according to 247Sports Composite.
E.J. Holland: Nation's No. 2 recruit Walker Little high on Texas
Walker Little made a massive jump in the new 247Sports rankings. The five-star offensive tackle out of Houston Bellaire Episcopal is now the No. 2 recruit in the nation and No. 1 overall prospect in the state of Texas. Needless to say, Little is a hot commodity on the recruiting trail. While Texas doesn’t offer many players early in the process, the Longhorns were actually the first to extend a scholarship to Little, who said UT is one school really sticking out. “Texas is a big school for me,” Little said. “It’s close to home. I feel really comfortable with the coaching staff there. Coach (Matt) Mattox and I have built a great relationship along with Coach (Charlie) Strong. They are a young team on the come up. It’s a school where I could see myself at.”
Little has made a number of visits to Texas over the last calendar year and wholeheartedly believes in the future of the program. “Through my recruitment, I’ve been there about seven or eight times,” Little said. “They are definitely on the rise. They were down a little bit but after this recruiting class, they are rolling. Things are looking up.” Little will not be on UT’s campus for Under The Lights this weekend because he will be on vacation with his family in Utah. He does, however, plan to make it back to the Forty Acres before the summer comes to an end and for the opener against Notre Dame.
It’s clear the Texas staff is working hard on Little but so are some of the Longhorns’ new players. “When I went on my last visit there, I ate dinner with Zach Shackelford,” Little said. “I got to spend a lot of time with him. I got to talk to Shane Buechele a little bit too. I’m close to Sam Ehlinger as well. I talk to him often.”
Texas is obviously a favorite for Little at this time, but the Longhorns are in a tight race with both Stanford and Ole Miss. “Stanford is a top school for me right now,” Little said. “I love their coaching staff. They are winning a lot. I’ve been to Stanford twice. The education stands out to me. It’s a great opportunity to get the best of both worlds. Ole Miss is probably the school I’m closest to right now. I’ve known their coaches for a long time. My brother and sister go to school there. They are probably the school I’m most comfortable with.” Little plans to make a decision at some point during his senior year or at the Army All-American Bowl in January.
Galena Park North Shore defensive end K’Lavon Chaisson isn’t a big social media guy. Chaisson hardly does interviews and doesn’t even respond to most coaches. But last month, the four-star prospect took to Twitter to release his Top 10 schools. Unlike most prospects, Chaisson put his out in order with Oklahoma, Houston and LSU leading the way. Texas survived the cut but was listed dead last. Since then, however, the Longhorns have made a big push for Chaisson and now sit near the top.
“They’ve definitely jumped up now,” Chaisson said. “I think they should be like No. 4 on my list. At first, I hadn’t really talked to Texas. It was my fault because I don’t really talk a lot. But when I reached out to them, they gave me a lot of good information. Their academics are really high. They are ranked No. 16 in business, and that’s what I want to major in. That definitely caught my eye. It’s not too far or too close to home, so it’s a good place for me.”
Texas defensive line coach Brick Haley coached Chaisson’s father, so the two have a good relationship. But defensive coordinator Vance Bedford is actually the coach in charge of recruitment. Chaisson said he feels he has a good relationship with the staff now and wants to continue to not only get to know them more but also learn about the defensive scheme. “Coach Haley coached my dad,” Chaisson said. “But I’ve been talking more to Coach Bedford more. Overall, the connections are good, but I care more about how they plan to use me. What are you going to do with me?”
The answer to that question is simple. Texas is enamored with Chaisson’s ability to rush the quarterback and is recruiting him as a ‘Fox’ end. “They want me as a Fox end,” Chaisson said. “I really like it. I want to watch more film but from what I’ve seen, I love it.” Chaisson said he might visit Texas for Under The Lights, nothing is set in stone at this time. He also hopes to make trips to Florida State and LSU before the summer comes to an end. At 6-foot-4, 211 pounds, Chaisson is ranked as the No. 5 weak-side defensive end in the country and No. 13 overall prospect in the state, according to 247Sports Composite.
E.J. Holland: Nation's No. 2 recruit Walker Little high on Texas
Walker Little made a massive jump in the new 247Sports rankings. The five-star offensive tackle out of Houston Bellaire Episcopal is now the No. 2 recruit in the nation and No. 1 overall prospect in the state of Texas. Needless to say, Little is a hot commodity on the recruiting trail. While Texas doesn’t offer many players early in the process, the Longhorns were actually the first to extend a scholarship to Little, who said UT is one school really sticking out. “Texas is a big school for me,” Little said. “It’s close to home. I feel really comfortable with the coaching staff there. Coach (Matt) Mattox and I have built a great relationship along with Coach (Charlie) Strong. They are a young team on the come up. It’s a school where I could see myself at.”
Little has made a number of visits to Texas over the last calendar year and wholeheartedly believes in the future of the program. “Through my recruitment, I’ve been there about seven or eight times,” Little said. “They are definitely on the rise. They were down a little bit but after this recruiting class, they are rolling. Things are looking up.” Little will not be on UT’s campus for Under The Lights this weekend because he will be on vacation with his family in Utah. He does, however, plan to make it back to the Forty Acres before the summer comes to an end and for the opener against Notre Dame.
It’s clear the Texas staff is working hard on Little but so are some of the Longhorns’ new players. “When I went on my last visit there, I ate dinner with Zach Shackelford,” Little said. “I got to spend a lot of time with him. I got to talk to Shane Buechele a little bit too. I’m close to Sam Ehlinger as well. I talk to him often.”
Texas is obviously a favorite for Little at this time, but the Longhorns are in a tight race with both Stanford and Ole Miss. “Stanford is a top school for me right now,” Little said. “I love their coaching staff. They are winning a lot. I’ve been to Stanford twice. The education stands out to me. It’s a great opportunity to get the best of both worlds. Ole Miss is probably the school I’m closest to right now. I’ve known their coaches for a long time. My brother and sister go to school there. They are probably the school I’m most comfortable with.” Little plans to make a decision at some point during his senior year or at the Army All-American Bowl in January.
