I think Swoopes will complete some throws out of the 18 wheeler package this year and make it even more effective. I think it's something that we are utilizing because we have Swoopes not something we are going to try to shoehorn our biggest QB into on a yearly basis. Also as Shane gets bigger over the offseason I would expect to see him used quite a bit as a runner rather than subbing in our biggest QB.
Recruiting Thread 2017
- Thread starter Scholz
- Start date
Visitors list for the UTEP game (from all sites):
2017
QB, Sam Ehlinger, Austin Westlake
OL, Stephan Zabie, Austin Westlake
LB, Levi Jones, Austin Westlake
* Inside Texas saying DE Taquon Graham is a "maybe" for the UTEP game. He's still upset he couldn't attend the Notre Dame game last weekend.
2018
QB, Davis Brin, Boerne Champion
RB, Kemoche Hobbs, Waco La Vega
WR, Scooter Adams, Halletsville
WR, Gabriel Douglas, Denton Ryan
WR, Erik Ezukanma, Fort Worth Timber Creek
WR, Tycen Thompson, Ennis
OL, Connor Galvin, Katy
OL, Ylijaah Hall, Bryan
OL, Chasen Hines, Marshall
DE, Zach Gilson, Sachse
CB, Gemon Green, DeSoto
CB, German Green, DeSoto
CB, JaQualyn Greene, Arlington Bowie
2019
ATH, Jordan Whittington, Cuero
2017
QB, Sam Ehlinger, Austin Westlake
OL, Stephan Zabie, Austin Westlake
LB, Levi Jones, Austin Westlake
* Inside Texas saying DE Taquon Graham is a "maybe" for the UTEP game. He's still upset he couldn't attend the Notre Dame game last weekend.
2018
QB, Davis Brin, Boerne Champion
RB, Kemoche Hobbs, Waco La Vega
WR, Scooter Adams, Halletsville
WR, Gabriel Douglas, Denton Ryan
WR, Erik Ezukanma, Fort Worth Timber Creek
WR, Tycen Thompson, Ennis
OL, Connor Galvin, Katy
OL, Ylijaah Hall, Bryan
OL, Chasen Hines, Marshall
DE, Zach Gilson, Sachse
CB, Gemon Green, DeSoto
CB, German Green, DeSoto
CB, JaQualyn Greene, Arlington Bowie
2019
ATH, Jordan Whittington, Cuero
Are these seriously two different people? I assumed it was a typo, but now have to assume twins?? I bet those names get mixed up a lot at home, when mom is yelling!
Of note, according to TFB Marvin Wilson and Baron Browning are the ones encouraging Leatherwood to check out Texas. Let that sink in.
HornSports 9/12:
Hooks (TX) DB Montrell Estell has been pretty quiet since committing to Texas. On Friday we attended his game against Mount Vernon to see the east Texas athlete up-close. Estell was a force every time he touched the ball, but inexplicably he didn’t get many touches on the night. We caught up with Estell after the game to get the latest on his recruitment.
Estell attended the season opener against Notre Dame, and he came away impressed with the Texas performance. “The game was the bomb. It was so fun to experience the yelling and the fans. I had a headache with so much yelling, but it was fun.”
The Longhorns received strong reactions from recruits that were there, and the performance took Estell by surprise. “I was shocked. My friends are always talking crap, but I told them we were going to see what Coach Strong does this year.” Estell got to spend time with the other members of the recruiting class at the game, and he tells us they are bonding together. “We were talking about when we get down there about what was going to be cool and everything. I know most of them pretty well, so we have a little group chat and we talk all the time.” Estell is currently not recruiting anyone for Texas, but he told us he’s strongly committed. “I’m solid, I’m not going nowhere.” Estell said other schools like Alabama tried to get in on his recruitment, but they’ve stopped now that they know how firmly he is committed. Texas will be his only official visit this season, but he told us he doesn’t know when that will be. “I just love Coach Charlie Strong,” Estell told us when asked why he was so solid to Texas. “I love it, I love the facilities and the coaches.”
Estell is one of a group of talented east Texans in the committed class, and he talked to us about the bond within the region. “It’s special to me, because we’re all from the same place, so we want to make somewhere else special.” Estell was cautious when we asked for a prediction for the rest of the season, but he did tell us that he thinks Texas is officially back.
Estell will probably remain quiet until signing day, but Texas fans should have no worries here.
+++++
John Tyler is one of the most storied programs in the state. The Lions showed up in Shreveport for the Battle on the Border, and dominated against Warren Easton; a prominent New Orleans high school. We caught up with Texas commit Damion Miller afterwards to talk all things football with him.
“The win was good. We came to Louisiana, and we showed them what the east Texas boys were about.” Miller got loose for a 74 yard touchdown in the first half on a deep ball, and he walked us through the play afterwards. “When he (quarterback Bryson Smith) gave me the signal I was already ready. I was looking at him (the cornerback) and was like ‘Are you ready for this’? When he threw it, it was over with.”
Miller also attended the matchup against Notre Dame, and he really liked what he saw from the Texas offense. “They kept fighting. They were selfless and they didn’t give up. They just kept playing, and their offensive game was crazy. Buechele out there is doing real good, and the Offensive Coordinator’s play calling was real good. They threw a lot of deep balls, and I like that. I like deep balls. I mean hardly anybody can stop me at deep balls.”
Miller is a big physical receiver with elite speed, and he sees an example of his role in this offense on the field with John Burt. “Me and Burt are kind of similar. We got speed, and we’re kind of big. We can get past the defenders and win real easily, and the ball is right there for us.” Miller also enjoyed bonding with the other commits at the game. “We had a good time. We just couldn’t wait to get to Austin together and play with each other.” Miller told us the group is bonding well and talking every day in their group text. Like Estell, Miller said he’s not really doing any recruiting. “Not me. Really Sam (Ehlinger) is doing all the work,” he told us with a laugh.
Early on in his recruitment it seemed that Miller was entertaining other programs, but at this time he’s firmly committed to Texas. “No sir, I’m not talking to anybody. Texas A&M is still sending pictures or whatever of me in their A&M uniforms.” He went on to tell us that he’s 100% committed to the Longhorns.
Miller told us he clocked a 4.4 40 yard dash at The Opening regional with a hurt hamstring, and his dynamic ability will give Texas another weapon once he reaches campus.
+++++
IMG Academy dominated Tulsa (OK) Booker T. Washington in the nightcap of the Battle on the Border. Dylan Moses was all over the field for IMG, and the Louisiana native had a ton of friends and family in the stands. We caught up with one of the most talked about recruits in the nation following the game, and he was happy to be back in “the boot”.
“It felt great playing in front of the home crowd. I was very comfortable, and it was fun.” Moses transferred to IMG this season from powerhouse University Lab high school in Baton Rouge. While many feel Moses is college ready, he cited IMG as a key element in his development as a player. “Being from here going against the competition, and then going to Florida it was really a big transition for me. I’m going against guys who are really going to push me to my highest ability.”
Moses recently had some positive tweets following the Texas victory over Notre Dame, and he gave us his thoughts on the program. “I thought it was a really good game. I didn’t get to watch the full game, because I had a game that day myself so I only caught the highlights on Sports Center. From what I gather it was really great.”
We posed the question “is Texas back” to Moses, and he thought the results spoke for themselves. “Definitely. I visited them over the summer and they told me the defense was going to be great. They really proved themselves.” Moses has an official visit set up with Texas October 8th, but there is some talk about moving that back. When Moses does make his way to campus expect Malik Jefferson to be stuck to his side. “I have a really great relationship with Malik,” Moses told us. “We don’t talk all the time, but when I come around UT it’s good vibes.” Moses expanded on what he likes most about the face of the Texas program. “He’s a very outspoken person you know. He’s a great guy, He’s a leader, and that’s the type of people you need around you.”
Moses released a top 5 in April consisting of Texas, Alabama, USC, LSU, and UCLA. While much of his top five is still the same, Moses told us that a new team is making their way into the picture. “I’m starting to get interested in Houston. I’m talking to the coaches trying to set something up.”
LSU and Alabama are still very much in the picture, and Moses communicates with both staffs on a regular basis. He plans to officially visit Alabama on October 1st. Moses declined an invitation to name a leader at this point, but he did tell us that he would release a top three after he takes his official visits. Moses will announce his decision on December 15th, and he plans to enroll during the spring at whichever program he chooses.
So what is it that will factor in most to the decision for Moses? “Like I tell every other reporter it’s about the relationship I have with the coaches. It’s not about how good of a team you are or whatever, it’s about whether or not I can talk to you personally and have deep conversations about my personal life and be that father figure away from home.” Does Texas coach Charlie Strong check all of those boxes? “Definitely, he’s a great guy. Every time I’ve spoken with him he keeps it real, keeps it 100. He always tells the truth. He tells you what you need to hear and not what you want to hear.”
We’ll have more on this recruitment later in Burnt Ends, but suffice it to say there’s some optimism surrounding this recruitment.
+++++
Following the win over Notre Dame we were told that many recruits around the state took notice. We picked up some odds and ends on a number of prospects, but we can’t report all of them at this time. Here are a couple of nuggets we learned about in the last week.
Henderson athlete Trestan Ebner had some talks with Texas early in his recruitment before committing to TCU, and we were told he’s still interested in hearing from the Longhorns. Ebner can play receiver or safety, and the Texas coaches are well aware of his ability. It’s unclear if he will be pursued by Texas, but he does have nice athleticism and versatility.
A picture surfaced of Jeff Okudah holding up the “hook ‘em” hand sign after scoring a touchdown on Friday night. We were told after the Notre Dame game that Okudah took notice of the performance on the field, but I wouldn’t make much of the picture in question. Okudah has never been hot on Texas, and he left them out of his latest cut.
IMG Academy 2018 DT Taron Vincent had a strong game against Booker T. Washington. Vincent holds a Texas offer, and he tells us he plans on taking a visit to Texas for a game. It’s early in his recruitment, but Texas is an option for Vincent at this point.
+++++
We had a chance to talk recruiting with a bunch of sources in the last few weeks, and we wanted to catch everyone up on where the major Texas targets are in their recruitments.
The commitments – The Texas class has grown close, and none of the players pledged to the Horns are looking around. They are also marshaling for a strong recruiting effort down the stretch. No worries here.
JK Dobbins – Dobbins had an injury that was diagnosed to be more serious than originally thought. It’s a slight setback for one of the most dynamic players in the state, but he won’t lose any attention over it. Dobbins is committed to Ohio State, and while it’s not a slam dunk for him to flip, we believe that the Longhorns are setting themselves up favorably here. If Ohio State adds another runner to the class, we expect things to get very interesting.
Omar Manning – Lancaster’s big play threat navigated cautiously through his recruitment, and Texas seems to be emerging as the leader for his services. He fits a key playmaker role in this wide open offense. Once thought to be TCU’s for the taking, even those in Fort Worth are starting to concede.
Jalen Reagor – Perhaps a new name to some of you, the Waxahachie based Oklahoma pledge holds a Texas offer. We are still gathering more information about this recruitment, but we wouldn’t be surprised if Reagor shows up in Austin for an official visit.
Mannie Netherly – Netherly plans on making an official to Texas, but it’s unclear how the Texas coaches feel about him at this time. The Longhorns extended an offer in the spring, but numbers are tight and this ship might have sailed.
Tyrell Shavers – We’ve heard some whispers that Shavers took notice of the Texas win over Notre Dame, and we are still diving a bit deeper into things. It’s clear that receivers love the role for them in Sterlin Gilbert’s scheme, but numbers will be tight and we expect only three to be taken at most.
Major Tennison – Mark this one “hot and cold”. One day we hear very strong things about Tennison returning to the Texas class, and the next we hear that there are some obstacles there. The tight ends haven’t been used much in the new offense, so we’ll have to monitor things throughout the season.
Walker Little – Bellaire Episcopal’s star offensive lineman loves Texas and the staff. Stanford looms large with an official visit upcoming, but the Horns are in a strong position. Barring him being blown away in Palo Alto, we expect Texas to have an heir to Connor Williams.
Chuck Filiaga – The Aledo offensive lineman enjoyed his visit to Austin in week 1, and there’s some discussion if he will remain in Texas or head back to his native west coast. We are still trying to figure out the number of offensive line commitments, but we have a weird gut feeling that Texas wins out.
Adrian Ealy – Texas has hung around in the recruitment for the East Ascension (LA) tackle, and while no one is sure how serious things are this feels like something Texas can win if they get serious. Ealy has some other options that might win out, but if he makes it to campus consider Texas a strong option.
Alex Leatherwood – The Alabama commit was offered by Texas last week. It wouldn’t totally shock us to see Leatherwood make his way to Austin for an official, but this one is a long shot at this point.
K’Lavon Chaisson – North Shore’s prized pass rusher is a perfect fit for the Fox position, and after falling way behind Texas is surging in this recruitment. LSU and even Houston will be a factor, but Texas has the scheme fit to close this thing down the stretch.
Ondario Robinson – Texas pursued this on a somewhat serious level, but Robinson never seemed to latch on to the experience. We expect Robinson to commit to A&M soon.
Alec Jackson – Montgomery (AL) Jefferson Davis DL Alec Jackson is reportedly highly sought after by the Texas staff. It’s always going to be tough to pull an Alabama kid with an Alabama offer out of Alabama, but if they can get him on campus they have a chance.
Marvin Wilson – The stars are aligning. LSU is faltering, and Texas is surging. Wilson’s family would prefer he stay close to home, and Texas is the only serious in state option at this point in time. If you didn’t see it, Wilson and little both wore orange gloves during their high school game last week.
Damion Daniels – The Bishop Dunne DT looks to be bound for Nebraska at this point.
Anthony Hines – The Aggies made their big impression on Hines during his official visit last week. While they will remain a significant team of interest in this recruitment, we will wait to see how Texas fares after their visit. If we had to make a pick right now, our money would be on Charlie Strong, Malik Jefferson and Texas.
Baron Browning – Talk about your perfect fit. Browning exemplifies everything Charlie Strong looks for in a student athlete. We heard very positive things about his visit to Texas vs. Notre Dame, and we expect Texas to get the next Malik Jefferson out of this class.
Dylan Moses – We’ve long been cautious about the chances with IMG’s star linebacker, but we are officially prepared to raise your hopes. After talking to a number of sources, we believe Texas is solidly in the mix. LSU will always hold sway, but if Les Miles is fired we expect Texas to slide into the top spot. We aren’t sounding the alarm yet, but be prepared to get excited in the coming weeks.
Levi Jones – We were told some time ago that Jones would not end up at Texas, but things are starting to change there. Numbers could get tight at this position, but Jones is starting to warm to the idea of playing with his two best friends (Sam Ehlinger and Breckyn Hager) in Austin.
Kary Vincent – Vincent announced that he would take an official to Texas this year, and it reminded me of what someone told me a few months ago. “Vincent might not commit to Texas first, but I’d bet money he signs there”. Texas could benefit from LSU’s demise if it happens.
Chevin Calloway – We were told that Calloway is talking to Texas even though he’s committed to Iowa. This is another spot where numbers might squeeze someone out.
Hooks (TX) DB Montrell Estell has been pretty quiet since committing to Texas. On Friday we attended his game against Mount Vernon to see the east Texas athlete up-close. Estell was a force every time he touched the ball, but inexplicably he didn’t get many touches on the night. We caught up with Estell after the game to get the latest on his recruitment.
Estell attended the season opener against Notre Dame, and he came away impressed with the Texas performance. “The game was the bomb. It was so fun to experience the yelling and the fans. I had a headache with so much yelling, but it was fun.”
The Longhorns received strong reactions from recruits that were there, and the performance took Estell by surprise. “I was shocked. My friends are always talking crap, but I told them we were going to see what Coach Strong does this year.” Estell got to spend time with the other members of the recruiting class at the game, and he tells us they are bonding together. “We were talking about when we get down there about what was going to be cool and everything. I know most of them pretty well, so we have a little group chat and we talk all the time.” Estell is currently not recruiting anyone for Texas, but he told us he’s strongly committed. “I’m solid, I’m not going nowhere.” Estell said other schools like Alabama tried to get in on his recruitment, but they’ve stopped now that they know how firmly he is committed. Texas will be his only official visit this season, but he told us he doesn’t know when that will be. “I just love Coach Charlie Strong,” Estell told us when asked why he was so solid to Texas. “I love it, I love the facilities and the coaches.”
Estell is one of a group of talented east Texans in the committed class, and he talked to us about the bond within the region. “It’s special to me, because we’re all from the same place, so we want to make somewhere else special.” Estell was cautious when we asked for a prediction for the rest of the season, but he did tell us that he thinks Texas is officially back.
Estell will probably remain quiet until signing day, but Texas fans should have no worries here.
+++++
John Tyler is one of the most storied programs in the state. The Lions showed up in Shreveport for the Battle on the Border, and dominated against Warren Easton; a prominent New Orleans high school. We caught up with Texas commit Damion Miller afterwards to talk all things football with him.
“The win was good. We came to Louisiana, and we showed them what the east Texas boys were about.” Miller got loose for a 74 yard touchdown in the first half on a deep ball, and he walked us through the play afterwards. “When he (quarterback Bryson Smith) gave me the signal I was already ready. I was looking at him (the cornerback) and was like ‘Are you ready for this’? When he threw it, it was over with.”
Miller also attended the matchup against Notre Dame, and he really liked what he saw from the Texas offense. “They kept fighting. They were selfless and they didn’t give up. They just kept playing, and their offensive game was crazy. Buechele out there is doing real good, and the Offensive Coordinator’s play calling was real good. They threw a lot of deep balls, and I like that. I like deep balls. I mean hardly anybody can stop me at deep balls.”
Miller is a big physical receiver with elite speed, and he sees an example of his role in this offense on the field with John Burt. “Me and Burt are kind of similar. We got speed, and we’re kind of big. We can get past the defenders and win real easily, and the ball is right there for us.” Miller also enjoyed bonding with the other commits at the game. “We had a good time. We just couldn’t wait to get to Austin together and play with each other.” Miller told us the group is bonding well and talking every day in their group text. Like Estell, Miller said he’s not really doing any recruiting. “Not me. Really Sam (Ehlinger) is doing all the work,” he told us with a laugh.
Early on in his recruitment it seemed that Miller was entertaining other programs, but at this time he’s firmly committed to Texas. “No sir, I’m not talking to anybody. Texas A&M is still sending pictures or whatever of me in their A&M uniforms.” He went on to tell us that he’s 100% committed to the Longhorns.
Miller told us he clocked a 4.4 40 yard dash at The Opening regional with a hurt hamstring, and his dynamic ability will give Texas another weapon once he reaches campus.
+++++
IMG Academy dominated Tulsa (OK) Booker T. Washington in the nightcap of the Battle on the Border. Dylan Moses was all over the field for IMG, and the Louisiana native had a ton of friends and family in the stands. We caught up with one of the most talked about recruits in the nation following the game, and he was happy to be back in “the boot”.
“It felt great playing in front of the home crowd. I was very comfortable, and it was fun.” Moses transferred to IMG this season from powerhouse University Lab high school in Baton Rouge. While many feel Moses is college ready, he cited IMG as a key element in his development as a player. “Being from here going against the competition, and then going to Florida it was really a big transition for me. I’m going against guys who are really going to push me to my highest ability.”
Moses recently had some positive tweets following the Texas victory over Notre Dame, and he gave us his thoughts on the program. “I thought it was a really good game. I didn’t get to watch the full game, because I had a game that day myself so I only caught the highlights on Sports Center. From what I gather it was really great.”
We posed the question “is Texas back” to Moses, and he thought the results spoke for themselves. “Definitely. I visited them over the summer and they told me the defense was going to be great. They really proved themselves.” Moses has an official visit set up with Texas October 8th, but there is some talk about moving that back. When Moses does make his way to campus expect Malik Jefferson to be stuck to his side. “I have a really great relationship with Malik,” Moses told us. “We don’t talk all the time, but when I come around UT it’s good vibes.” Moses expanded on what he likes most about the face of the Texas program. “He’s a very outspoken person you know. He’s a great guy, He’s a leader, and that’s the type of people you need around you.”
Moses released a top 5 in April consisting of Texas, Alabama, USC, LSU, and UCLA. While much of his top five is still the same, Moses told us that a new team is making their way into the picture. “I’m starting to get interested in Houston. I’m talking to the coaches trying to set something up.”
LSU and Alabama are still very much in the picture, and Moses communicates with both staffs on a regular basis. He plans to officially visit Alabama on October 1st. Moses declined an invitation to name a leader at this point, but he did tell us that he would release a top three after he takes his official visits. Moses will announce his decision on December 15th, and he plans to enroll during the spring at whichever program he chooses.
So what is it that will factor in most to the decision for Moses? “Like I tell every other reporter it’s about the relationship I have with the coaches. It’s not about how good of a team you are or whatever, it’s about whether or not I can talk to you personally and have deep conversations about my personal life and be that father figure away from home.” Does Texas coach Charlie Strong check all of those boxes? “Definitely, he’s a great guy. Every time I’ve spoken with him he keeps it real, keeps it 100. He always tells the truth. He tells you what you need to hear and not what you want to hear.”
We’ll have more on this recruitment later in Burnt Ends, but suffice it to say there’s some optimism surrounding this recruitment.
+++++
Following the win over Notre Dame we were told that many recruits around the state took notice. We picked up some odds and ends on a number of prospects, but we can’t report all of them at this time. Here are a couple of nuggets we learned about in the last week.
Henderson athlete Trestan Ebner had some talks with Texas early in his recruitment before committing to TCU, and we were told he’s still interested in hearing from the Longhorns. Ebner can play receiver or safety, and the Texas coaches are well aware of his ability. It’s unclear if he will be pursued by Texas, but he does have nice athleticism and versatility.
A picture surfaced of Jeff Okudah holding up the “hook ‘em” hand sign after scoring a touchdown on Friday night. We were told after the Notre Dame game that Okudah took notice of the performance on the field, but I wouldn’t make much of the picture in question. Okudah has never been hot on Texas, and he left them out of his latest cut.
IMG Academy 2018 DT Taron Vincent had a strong game against Booker T. Washington. Vincent holds a Texas offer, and he tells us he plans on taking a visit to Texas for a game. It’s early in his recruitment, but Texas is an option for Vincent at this point.
+++++
We had a chance to talk recruiting with a bunch of sources in the last few weeks, and we wanted to catch everyone up on where the major Texas targets are in their recruitments.
The commitments – The Texas class has grown close, and none of the players pledged to the Horns are looking around. They are also marshaling for a strong recruiting effort down the stretch. No worries here.
JK Dobbins – Dobbins had an injury that was diagnosed to be more serious than originally thought. It’s a slight setback for one of the most dynamic players in the state, but he won’t lose any attention over it. Dobbins is committed to Ohio State, and while it’s not a slam dunk for him to flip, we believe that the Longhorns are setting themselves up favorably here. If Ohio State adds another runner to the class, we expect things to get very interesting.
Omar Manning – Lancaster’s big play threat navigated cautiously through his recruitment, and Texas seems to be emerging as the leader for his services. He fits a key playmaker role in this wide open offense. Once thought to be TCU’s for the taking, even those in Fort Worth are starting to concede.
Jalen Reagor – Perhaps a new name to some of you, the Waxahachie based Oklahoma pledge holds a Texas offer. We are still gathering more information about this recruitment, but we wouldn’t be surprised if Reagor shows up in Austin for an official visit.
Mannie Netherly – Netherly plans on making an official to Texas, but it’s unclear how the Texas coaches feel about him at this time. The Longhorns extended an offer in the spring, but numbers are tight and this ship might have sailed.
Tyrell Shavers – We’ve heard some whispers that Shavers took notice of the Texas win over Notre Dame, and we are still diving a bit deeper into things. It’s clear that receivers love the role for them in Sterlin Gilbert’s scheme, but numbers will be tight and we expect only three to be taken at most.
Major Tennison – Mark this one “hot and cold”. One day we hear very strong things about Tennison returning to the Texas class, and the next we hear that there are some obstacles there. The tight ends haven’t been used much in the new offense, so we’ll have to monitor things throughout the season.
Walker Little – Bellaire Episcopal’s star offensive lineman loves Texas and the staff. Stanford looms large with an official visit upcoming, but the Horns are in a strong position. Barring him being blown away in Palo Alto, we expect Texas to have an heir to Connor Williams.
Chuck Filiaga – The Aledo offensive lineman enjoyed his visit to Austin in week 1, and there’s some discussion if he will remain in Texas or head back to his native west coast. We are still trying to figure out the number of offensive line commitments, but we have a weird gut feeling that Texas wins out.
Adrian Ealy – Texas has hung around in the recruitment for the East Ascension (LA) tackle, and while no one is sure how serious things are this feels like something Texas can win if they get serious. Ealy has some other options that might win out, but if he makes it to campus consider Texas a strong option.
Alex Leatherwood – The Alabama commit was offered by Texas last week. It wouldn’t totally shock us to see Leatherwood make his way to Austin for an official, but this one is a long shot at this point.
K’Lavon Chaisson – North Shore’s prized pass rusher is a perfect fit for the Fox position, and after falling way behind Texas is surging in this recruitment. LSU and even Houston will be a factor, but Texas has the scheme fit to close this thing down the stretch.
Ondario Robinson – Texas pursued this on a somewhat serious level, but Robinson never seemed to latch on to the experience. We expect Robinson to commit to A&M soon.
Alec Jackson – Montgomery (AL) Jefferson Davis DL Alec Jackson is reportedly highly sought after by the Texas staff. It’s always going to be tough to pull an Alabama kid with an Alabama offer out of Alabama, but if they can get him on campus they have a chance.
Marvin Wilson – The stars are aligning. LSU is faltering, and Texas is surging. Wilson’s family would prefer he stay close to home, and Texas is the only serious in state option at this point in time. If you didn’t see it, Wilson and little both wore orange gloves during their high school game last week.
Damion Daniels – The Bishop Dunne DT looks to be bound for Nebraska at this point.
Anthony Hines – The Aggies made their big impression on Hines during his official visit last week. While they will remain a significant team of interest in this recruitment, we will wait to see how Texas fares after their visit. If we had to make a pick right now, our money would be on Charlie Strong, Malik Jefferson and Texas.
Baron Browning – Talk about your perfect fit. Browning exemplifies everything Charlie Strong looks for in a student athlete. We heard very positive things about his visit to Texas vs. Notre Dame, and we expect Texas to get the next Malik Jefferson out of this class.
Dylan Moses – We’ve long been cautious about the chances with IMG’s star linebacker, but we are officially prepared to raise your hopes. After talking to a number of sources, we believe Texas is solidly in the mix. LSU will always hold sway, but if Les Miles is fired we expect Texas to slide into the top spot. We aren’t sounding the alarm yet, but be prepared to get excited in the coming weeks.
Levi Jones – We were told some time ago that Jones would not end up at Texas, but things are starting to change there. Numbers could get tight at this position, but Jones is starting to warm to the idea of playing with his two best friends (Sam Ehlinger and Breckyn Hager) in Austin.
Kary Vincent – Vincent announced that he would take an official to Texas this year, and it reminded me of what someone told me a few months ago. “Vincent might not commit to Texas first, but I’d bet money he signs there”. Texas could benefit from LSU’s demise if it happens.
Chevin Calloway – We were told that Calloway is talking to Texas even though he’s committed to Iowa. This is another spot where numbers might squeeze someone out.
Yes, it's a high school football factory (sports in general, recently added football). Another one is Bishop Gorman in Vegas. They're like Findlay Prep in Arizona for basketball. They're totally a business rife with corruption and payments. There's a growing movement in high schools to not schedule them. It's not a good development for high school sports.
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/09/19/sports/football/high-school-football-inc.html?_r=0
The NCAA created IMG with a rules change about online course work. IMG started out as a Bollettieri Tennis academy. In the tennis world its not uncommon for young kids with talent to get pulled out of school in order to train full time at tennis academies. The kids were home schooled and were taking some type of correspondence courses which morphed into online courses with little oversight. The NCAA really cracked down on these degrees So IMG which had purchased Bollettieri Tennis academy earlier opened up a fully accredited private college prep school. They already had a bunch of tennis and golf kids but once they opened the school they had capacity to add more sports so they did. I don't know how much it cost anymore but back when I visited in 2006 the upper level tennis academy program was almost 50 grand a year.
Nahlin:
OKUDAH
It's time our good friend @malaise went back to typing Jeffrey Okudah's name the regular way. No Addazio is this. I caught up with someone in tune with this recruitment and the takeaway is Texas has a chance but it needs to give max effort. As in, it needs to sell Okudah on 100% of what Texas has to offer; from school to athletic development. The door is open at the moment for Texas.
My first read on Okudah was "Texas kid" and I don't mean that from a football vantage. He reminds me of Kelson a bit. As the process has gone on I've learned that proximity could be a major factor for reasons at home. That's why OU has been in it. Key here is replacing OU as the proximity pick.
I'll make this easy for the staff: give the same pitch and effort you gave Malik and give Browning. Also, get Malik involved in that recruitment. If the staff does that this recruitment becomes very real.
I'll have more recruiting in the SOC.
From: Justin Wells
REAGOR
Like father, like son.
When Montae Reagor came through Waxahachie, the Indians experienced unquestioned success. State titles, winning streaks, and Texas pride. Montae went on to a stellar career at Texas Tech and in the NFL for the Broncos, Colts (won a Super Bowl), and the Saints.
So it's only natural that his son, Jalen, walk in his shoes.
Jalen is one of the top wide receivers I've seen in years. Speed, quickness, body control, hands; all of it. I started looking for a weakness and couldn't find it. The first time he touched the ball, he went 66 yards on a kickoff return only to be tripped at the last second. The last time he touched the ball...well, we'll get to that later.
Eric and I have lamented on the abundance of pass-catching talent in Texas for 2017. Manning, Miller, Netherly, Sneed, Lamb, Rambo, Shavers. It's like the list never ends. Having seen most of these cats in person I can tell you Jalen is No. 1.
On Friday night, after scoring two 1st half TDs, Ennis made a comeback in the Battle for 287 rivalry. The Lions had the ball, down eight, and were driving the field. A Waxahachie defender strips the ball from Ennis' 215-pound tailback and falls on the fumble at the Waxahachie 33. I'll let Jalen tell the rest.
"It was a double pass reverse," Jalen explained. "The pass was supposed to go from me to Kenedy Snell (TCU commit). But the defender was too close to him, so I figured I needed to be Superman again. When I feel like I have to do something for my team, I'm going to do it."
Reagor pulled the ball down, reversed field, and went 67 yards to pay dirt making at least seven Ennis' tacklers miss. The roar he let out after crossing the goal line was chilling. It was the last time he touched the ball en route to a 50-20 win for the Indians.
"When I step across these lines, I'm a different person," said Jalen.
Jalen first came across the radar when he committed to his dad's alma mater, Texas Tech. Then he flipped to OU. I always thought he was a special player but I didn't realize how special until early July in Oregon. He was selected to compete at The Opening at Nike HQ and separated himself from the pack of 5-stars walking the Beaverton fields.
In Oregon he told me was 100% solid to Oklahoma. Raved about Bob Stoops and Lincoln Riley. But things change.
"I'm solid to OU," Jalen said. "But all 22 schools (offers) are still recruiting me. TCU and Texas really are. A&M, Alabama too."
He's only got one official setup so far; September 17th in Norman for OU-Ohio State. But he's certainly open to taking others. Namely Texas. "It's just something I have to talk about with my parents."
"Of course I'd consider Texas," said Jalen. "That's a great school. Great program, great education, and a great coach. I feel like I could fit in perfectly in that offense."
Great coach, indeed. Jalen's viewpoint of Charlie Strong is unique.
"Through adversity, coach Strong never gives up," said Jalen. "He doesn't let the outside affect him."
Even kids committed to other schools - and rivals - see what Strong is producing. A source close to the family said this recruitment is just now beginning. I can see his dad wanting him to play in Texas and closer to home.
Texas is taking three WRs in the C/O 2017. They have set its sights on three main targets; Damion Miller (committed), Omar Manning (looking good), and Jalen Reagor (looking better each day). The more points and wins the Longhorns put up, the more likely Strong and his staff are going to have the pick of the litter in 2017.
If this was Fantasy Football, Jalen is my Antonio Brown.
WHITTINGTON
Cuero's future star is a 15-year old that looks like a college sophomore. He visited Texas on Saturday. He liked it.
"All I heard was 'Texas is back', said Whittington, from the players and recruits. It was real good. I loved it really."
This offense needs players like Jordan.
"I talk to coach Bedford a lot," Whittington said. "I'm looking for a program that needs me."
It was only a matter of time until national programs started calling Jordan.
"Ohio State offered on Friday," said Whittington. "I'm getting a lot of mail and a lot of calls."
Oklahoma State and Tennessee likely seem to be the next offers. A&M has already offered and is pushing hard.
This season has been a sensational start at Cuero.
"I have a total of seven TDs after Friday's night's win," said Jordan. "Trying to get receiving yards and scores every play. (Cuero) doesn't throw that much so I take advantage of it when I get a chance. We're 3-0, that's the most important thing."
Texas is starting to stand out.
"Tradition and family mostly," said Whittington about UT. "They remind me a lot of where I play."
It's so early in this recruitment, but laying the foundation is paramount in potential 5-stars. Strong and Bedford have laid the bricks.
REEVES
Dallas Shelton QB Cole Reeves' recruitment is picking up. The talented passer and baseball player visited Texas on Saturday for the UTEP game.
"I hear from Coach Charlie Williams (Texas WR coach) often," said Reeves. "I'm also talking to Florida State, Purdue, Tulsa, Michigan, Arkansas and a few more."
He's a 2018 QB, so like the rest, Texas is taking its time on who they want and will offer. Reeves has decent film, but playing on the baseball diamond might be his true calling. Still, he's the Horns and wants to camp in Austin over the summer.
This is just another one to watch.
TE NOTES
The state of the tight end at UT is an ever-evolving process.
One target on the radar is Trevor Kent (Pittsburg, KS), a Northwestern commit. Now, Kent tells me he's "100% solid" to Northwestern.
That doesn't keep other schools away from the 6-foot-5, 248-pounder, who holds offers from OU, Michigan, and Penn State.
"Other schools still contact me but I don't really entertain them," said Kent. "Texas coaches have been reaching out to me most recently. I've let coach Traylor know I'm not changing my commitment unless something very significant happens."
Significant? Perhaps a program with an incredible business school?
"Coach Traylor told me about the McCombs Business School," Kent said. "I've done my research online and known what I want out of a college. Texas is a fantastic school but I take my commitment serious and won't be changing my mind."
Yeah, I've heard that before.
Kent is the type of recruit you keep in touch with, but don't pressure, which fits Strong's mentality. And Traylor won't give up that easily.
He's the type of kid that if you get him on campus for an official visit, all bets are off. And with very little movement in the Major Tennison (Bullard) pursuit, Kent might be the next offer.
If Texas doesn't take a TE in 2017, and there's an outside chance this happens even though they might look JUCO, you could see a position change within the program. One name I'm hearing is Andrew Fitzgerald.
He's got the size, athletic ability, and according to his HS coach, the hands. And with the abundance of D-linemen on campus already, it might he his best shot at playing time.
But for now, the tight end spot at Texas remains," As the World Turns."
QUOTABLE QUOTES: "You can’t go wrong with Texas. The academics, the Big 12, the FOX position. I can go up there and compete for a spot. Even though they have two commits right there. Texas is a good spot even if you’re not going to the NFL with the alumni and education. People really sleep on Texas but last year they got that big recruiting class. Even the Baylor commits after National Signing Day, Texas has some weapons, even if they’re not in the spotlight like that.” - GP North Shore OLB/DE K'Lavon Chaisson
From: Joe Cook
MORE FROM THE MOORES
Joshua Moore and Jordan Moore, two 2018 prospects that Texas fans are extremely familiar with, both have a good idea of what they want in the process. Jordan, the slightly shorter of the athletic brothers from Yoakum, is set to announce his commitment on Christmas Eve. His brother, Joshua, does not plan to announce until a few months later, but both of them have some idea of where they are in the process.
Football, however, is not the only feat of athleticism on the calendar in the Moore household. According to their father Quintin, a former DE at Prairie View A&M, both of the brothers are involved in team roping. So while the brothers struggle at times to corral an angry young cow, the goal remains the same for both of them. “The goal is to get their college education paid for,” their father said.
That shouldn’t be an issue for either brother. Both Joshua and Jordan rarely left the field for the Bulldogs in their matchup against the Taylor Ducks. Whenever Yoakum is on defense, the Moore brothers both play at corner, with Joshua occasionally sliding to safety. On offense, both are split out at wide receiver on opposite sides of the field. Joshua even gets involved in special teams, fielding and returning punts.
Joshua and Jordan both won’t be short for options, but Jordan is a little closer to being finished with the process. He plans to announce a top 10 soon prior to committing on Christmas Eve. One of the schools that just jumped in the race for Jordan, LSU, is one of his favorites.
“Growing up, they were one of the schools that I would love to get attention from and recruited by,” Jordan said. “Just to be able to talk to one of their coaches and have them recognize me, that was pretty exciting.”
Jordan said that he talks to LSU DBs coach Corey Raymond the most at LSU. As far as for two of his in state options, he talks to multiple coaches at each school. For A&M, Jordan said he talks to Aaron Moorehead a lot. For Texas, he talks to Vance Bedford, but also shares a good connection with Jeff Traylor.
Jordan took in both Texas and Texas A&M last week and enjoyed seeing both.
“It was great,” Jordan said. “It was a busy weekend going to College Station then coming back and going to Austin. It was great. Every time I go to those schools, they both show me love and they both tell me that they really want me.”
He said both Texas and A&M will be high in his upcoming top ten. As far as how Christmas will be for whoever he chooses: “It’s going to be a nice one.”
Joshua had the assignment of covering Taylor’s best wide receiver, Tulsa commit Malik Jackson. Taylor’s offense comes from somebody who runs an offense very similar to what Sterlin Gilbert runs at Texas, so the system Yoakum had to defend could be similar to what Joshua runs at the next level. For Joshua, the challenge of covering the other team’s best receiver is one he welcomes.
“He’s a pretty good receiver,” Joshua said. “That’s probably the best receiver I’ll face all year. He caught balls that I usually don’t let people catch. I’ll give it to him, he’s a great receiver.”
Joshua also picked up an offer from LSU recently. For Joshua, it wasn’t football that gave him young interest in the Bayou Bengals, but another sport.
“The reason why I like LSU is because they’re very successful in track,” Joshua said. “I’m a good track athlete as well. What put me on LSU is their track success. I’ve been watching LSU run track since I was 10. My mom took me to meets and everything.”
While Joshua’s contact with LSU is in the early stages of development, his relationships with Texas and A&M coaches are more established. Joshua said he talks often with coaches Sumlin, McKinney and Banks. At Texas, he communicates with Strong, Bedford and Traylor. Josh also made the double trip to see both Texas and A&M.
“It was great,” he said. “The atmosphere was crazy for both of them Both fought hard, both got the win. I took a lot in from both games.”
With Joshua’s decision still some time away, he still has time to go through the recruiting process. For him, it won’t really pick up until the season is complete.
“I’m going to wait until the season is over first and start releasing my top 10 and stuff,” Joshua said. “I’ll go top 10, top five, top three, then I’ll go top two.”
OKUDAH
It's time our good friend @malaise went back to typing Jeffrey Okudah's name the regular way. No Addazio is this. I caught up with someone in tune with this recruitment and the takeaway is Texas has a chance but it needs to give max effort. As in, it needs to sell Okudah on 100% of what Texas has to offer; from school to athletic development. The door is open at the moment for Texas.
My first read on Okudah was "Texas kid" and I don't mean that from a football vantage. He reminds me of Kelson a bit. As the process has gone on I've learned that proximity could be a major factor for reasons at home. That's why OU has been in it. Key here is replacing OU as the proximity pick.
I'll make this easy for the staff: give the same pitch and effort you gave Malik and give Browning. Also, get Malik involved in that recruitment. If the staff does that this recruitment becomes very real.
I'll have more recruiting in the SOC.
From: Justin Wells
REAGOR
Like father, like son.
When Montae Reagor came through Waxahachie, the Indians experienced unquestioned success. State titles, winning streaks, and Texas pride. Montae went on to a stellar career at Texas Tech and in the NFL for the Broncos, Colts (won a Super Bowl), and the Saints.
So it's only natural that his son, Jalen, walk in his shoes.
Jalen is one of the top wide receivers I've seen in years. Speed, quickness, body control, hands; all of it. I started looking for a weakness and couldn't find it. The first time he touched the ball, he went 66 yards on a kickoff return only to be tripped at the last second. The last time he touched the ball...well, we'll get to that later.
Eric and I have lamented on the abundance of pass-catching talent in Texas for 2017. Manning, Miller, Netherly, Sneed, Lamb, Rambo, Shavers. It's like the list never ends. Having seen most of these cats in person I can tell you Jalen is No. 1.
On Friday night, after scoring two 1st half TDs, Ennis made a comeback in the Battle for 287 rivalry. The Lions had the ball, down eight, and were driving the field. A Waxahachie defender strips the ball from Ennis' 215-pound tailback and falls on the fumble at the Waxahachie 33. I'll let Jalen tell the rest.
"It was a double pass reverse," Jalen explained. "The pass was supposed to go from me to Kenedy Snell (TCU commit). But the defender was too close to him, so I figured I needed to be Superman again. When I feel like I have to do something for my team, I'm going to do it."
Reagor pulled the ball down, reversed field, and went 67 yards to pay dirt making at least seven Ennis' tacklers miss. The roar he let out after crossing the goal line was chilling. It was the last time he touched the ball en route to a 50-20 win for the Indians.
"When I step across these lines, I'm a different person," said Jalen.
Jalen first came across the radar when he committed to his dad's alma mater, Texas Tech. Then he flipped to OU. I always thought he was a special player but I didn't realize how special until early July in Oregon. He was selected to compete at The Opening at Nike HQ and separated himself from the pack of 5-stars walking the Beaverton fields.
In Oregon he told me was 100% solid to Oklahoma. Raved about Bob Stoops and Lincoln Riley. But things change.
"I'm solid to OU," Jalen said. "But all 22 schools (offers) are still recruiting me. TCU and Texas really are. A&M, Alabama too."
He's only got one official setup so far; September 17th in Norman for OU-Ohio State. But he's certainly open to taking others. Namely Texas. "It's just something I have to talk about with my parents."
"Of course I'd consider Texas," said Jalen. "That's a great school. Great program, great education, and a great coach. I feel like I could fit in perfectly in that offense."
Great coach, indeed. Jalen's viewpoint of Charlie Strong is unique.
"Through adversity, coach Strong never gives up," said Jalen. "He doesn't let the outside affect him."
Even kids committed to other schools - and rivals - see what Strong is producing. A source close to the family said this recruitment is just now beginning. I can see his dad wanting him to play in Texas and closer to home.
Texas is taking three WRs in the C/O 2017. They have set its sights on three main targets; Damion Miller (committed), Omar Manning (looking good), and Jalen Reagor (looking better each day). The more points and wins the Longhorns put up, the more likely Strong and his staff are going to have the pick of the litter in 2017.
If this was Fantasy Football, Jalen is my Antonio Brown.
WHITTINGTON
Cuero's future star is a 15-year old that looks like a college sophomore. He visited Texas on Saturday. He liked it.
"All I heard was 'Texas is back', said Whittington, from the players and recruits. It was real good. I loved it really."
This offense needs players like Jordan.
"I talk to coach Bedford a lot," Whittington said. "I'm looking for a program that needs me."
It was only a matter of time until national programs started calling Jordan.
"Ohio State offered on Friday," said Whittington. "I'm getting a lot of mail and a lot of calls."
Oklahoma State and Tennessee likely seem to be the next offers. A&M has already offered and is pushing hard.
This season has been a sensational start at Cuero.
"I have a total of seven TDs after Friday's night's win," said Jordan. "Trying to get receiving yards and scores every play. (Cuero) doesn't throw that much so I take advantage of it when I get a chance. We're 3-0, that's the most important thing."
Texas is starting to stand out.
"Tradition and family mostly," said Whittington about UT. "They remind me a lot of where I play."
It's so early in this recruitment, but laying the foundation is paramount in potential 5-stars. Strong and Bedford have laid the bricks.
REEVES
Dallas Shelton QB Cole Reeves' recruitment is picking up. The talented passer and baseball player visited Texas on Saturday for the UTEP game.
"I hear from Coach Charlie Williams (Texas WR coach) often," said Reeves. "I'm also talking to Florida State, Purdue, Tulsa, Michigan, Arkansas and a few more."
He's a 2018 QB, so like the rest, Texas is taking its time on who they want and will offer. Reeves has decent film, but playing on the baseball diamond might be his true calling. Still, he's the Horns and wants to camp in Austin over the summer.
This is just another one to watch.
TE NOTES
The state of the tight end at UT is an ever-evolving process.
One target on the radar is Trevor Kent (Pittsburg, KS), a Northwestern commit. Now, Kent tells me he's "100% solid" to Northwestern.
That doesn't keep other schools away from the 6-foot-5, 248-pounder, who holds offers from OU, Michigan, and Penn State.
"Other schools still contact me but I don't really entertain them," said Kent. "Texas coaches have been reaching out to me most recently. I've let coach Traylor know I'm not changing my commitment unless something very significant happens."
Significant? Perhaps a program with an incredible business school?
"Coach Traylor told me about the McCombs Business School," Kent said. "I've done my research online and known what I want out of a college. Texas is a fantastic school but I take my commitment serious and won't be changing my mind."
Yeah, I've heard that before.
Kent is the type of recruit you keep in touch with, but don't pressure, which fits Strong's mentality. And Traylor won't give up that easily.
He's the type of kid that if you get him on campus for an official visit, all bets are off. And with very little movement in the Major Tennison (Bullard) pursuit, Kent might be the next offer.
If Texas doesn't take a TE in 2017, and there's an outside chance this happens even though they might look JUCO, you could see a position change within the program. One name I'm hearing is Andrew Fitzgerald.
He's got the size, athletic ability, and according to his HS coach, the hands. And with the abundance of D-linemen on campus already, it might he his best shot at playing time.
But for now, the tight end spot at Texas remains," As the World Turns."
QUOTABLE QUOTES: "You can’t go wrong with Texas. The academics, the Big 12, the FOX position. I can go up there and compete for a spot. Even though they have two commits right there. Texas is a good spot even if you’re not going to the NFL with the alumni and education. People really sleep on Texas but last year they got that big recruiting class. Even the Baylor commits after National Signing Day, Texas has some weapons, even if they’re not in the spotlight like that.” - GP North Shore OLB/DE K'Lavon Chaisson
From: Joe Cook
MORE FROM THE MOORES
Joshua Moore and Jordan Moore, two 2018 prospects that Texas fans are extremely familiar with, both have a good idea of what they want in the process. Jordan, the slightly shorter of the athletic brothers from Yoakum, is set to announce his commitment on Christmas Eve. His brother, Joshua, does not plan to announce until a few months later, but both of them have some idea of where they are in the process.
Football, however, is not the only feat of athleticism on the calendar in the Moore household. According to their father Quintin, a former DE at Prairie View A&M, both of the brothers are involved in team roping. So while the brothers struggle at times to corral an angry young cow, the goal remains the same for both of them. “The goal is to get their college education paid for,” their father said.
That shouldn’t be an issue for either brother. Both Joshua and Jordan rarely left the field for the Bulldogs in their matchup against the Taylor Ducks. Whenever Yoakum is on defense, the Moore brothers both play at corner, with Joshua occasionally sliding to safety. On offense, both are split out at wide receiver on opposite sides of the field. Joshua even gets involved in special teams, fielding and returning punts.
Joshua and Jordan both won’t be short for options, but Jordan is a little closer to being finished with the process. He plans to announce a top 10 soon prior to committing on Christmas Eve. One of the schools that just jumped in the race for Jordan, LSU, is one of his favorites.
“Growing up, they were one of the schools that I would love to get attention from and recruited by,” Jordan said. “Just to be able to talk to one of their coaches and have them recognize me, that was pretty exciting.”
Jordan said that he talks to LSU DBs coach Corey Raymond the most at LSU. As far as for two of his in state options, he talks to multiple coaches at each school. For A&M, Jordan said he talks to Aaron Moorehead a lot. For Texas, he talks to Vance Bedford, but also shares a good connection with Jeff Traylor.
Jordan took in both Texas and Texas A&M last week and enjoyed seeing both.
“It was great,” Jordan said. “It was a busy weekend going to College Station then coming back and going to Austin. It was great. Every time I go to those schools, they both show me love and they both tell me that they really want me.”
He said both Texas and A&M will be high in his upcoming top ten. As far as how Christmas will be for whoever he chooses: “It’s going to be a nice one.”
Joshua had the assignment of covering Taylor’s best wide receiver, Tulsa commit Malik Jackson. Taylor’s offense comes from somebody who runs an offense very similar to what Sterlin Gilbert runs at Texas, so the system Yoakum had to defend could be similar to what Joshua runs at the next level. For Joshua, the challenge of covering the other team’s best receiver is one he welcomes.
“He’s a pretty good receiver,” Joshua said. “That’s probably the best receiver I’ll face all year. He caught balls that I usually don’t let people catch. I’ll give it to him, he’s a great receiver.”
Joshua also picked up an offer from LSU recently. For Joshua, it wasn’t football that gave him young interest in the Bayou Bengals, but another sport.
“The reason why I like LSU is because they’re very successful in track,” Joshua said. “I’m a good track athlete as well. What put me on LSU is their track success. I’ve been watching LSU run track since I was 10. My mom took me to meets and everything.”
While Joshua’s contact with LSU is in the early stages of development, his relationships with Texas and A&M coaches are more established. Joshua said he talks often with coaches Sumlin, McKinney and Banks. At Texas, he communicates with Strong, Bedford and Traylor. Josh also made the double trip to see both Texas and A&M.
“It was great,” he said. “The atmosphere was crazy for both of them Both fought hard, both got the win. I took a lot in from both games.”
With Joshua’s decision still some time away, he still has time to go through the recruiting process. For him, it won’t really pick up until the season is complete.
“I’m going to wait until the season is over first and start releasing my top 10 and stuff,” Joshua said. “I’ll go top 10, top five, top three, then I’ll go top two.”
List price is not paid by top prospects. Maria Sharapova paid nothing up front to Bolletari. The academy gets paid by the lesser players
It's like modelling: if you're really a prospect, you don't pay to get started
Based on the lack of responses, I'll assume people didn't watch. Okudah scores on a long TD run, puts the ball on the ground and throws up the horns with both hands. Interesting.
A picture surfaced of Jeff Okudah holding up the “hook ‘em” hand sign after scoring a touchdown on Friday night. We were told after the Notre Dame game that Okudah took notice of the performance on the field, but I wouldn’t make much of the picture in question. Okudah has never been hot on Texas, and he left them out of his latest cut.
The Eyes of Texas: Recruiting Notes:
Here are some recruiting rumblings we heard while out on the road over the weekend:
1. Love for Strong
I spoke to a number of parents at this weekend’s games and asked them about Charlie Strong. Each time, the answer was the same — Strong is a great man doing great things for with the Texas program. All parents said they would love for their son to play for Strong and believe in his vision for the future of Texas football. As one parent of a top target put it, Strong is exactly the type of man you want your son to learn from both on and off the field. Strong has proven that his best trait as a recruiter is winning over parents and that should once again play huge in this cycle.
2. Love for Traylor
Strong wasn’t the only Texas coach who received praise during my weekend extravaganza of covering five games in three days. Jeff Traylor was praised by East Texas commits Montrell Estell and Damion Miller. Both said Traylor was such an effective recruiter in the area because they can relate to him and feel like he’s one of them. They also added that Traylor has a great personality and keeps things real. I also talked to two prominent East Texas sources that made it clear Texas needs to do everything to keep him this offseason because his phone will likely be ringing off the hook with job offers.
3. The deal with Moses
I talked to a number of people about five-star linebacker Dylan Moses this weekend, including one very close source. From what I gathered, Texas still has a very good shot with Moses. But honestly, his decision hinges on what happens at LSU. If the program implodes and Les Miles is fired, Texas’ chances will skyrocket. If LSU gets past its current issues and Miles stays, I fully believe Moses will be playing in Baton Rouge next season. So where do things stand right now? I believe Texas has a slight edge over Alabama for that second spot behind LSU. Moses and his father love Strong, the five-star prospect has a great relationship with Malik Jefferson and Texas is showing that it’s on the verge of something special.
4. Status of current commits
There have been some questions regarding the strength of Damion Miller’s commitment to Texas. But there isn’t much to worry about. Ole Miss has dropped off and Texas A&M is the only school really pushing for his services. Miller said the Aggies call all the time, but he doesn’t really have any interest. Alabama was pushing for Montrell Estell and was slated to receive an official visit, but that appears to be over and done with. Overall, I believe Miller and Estell will stick with Texas and sign with the Longhorns in February.
5. The 2018 QB situation
We went out to see Waco Midway’s Tanner Mordecai over weekend, but he didn’t play due to injury. Texas really likes Mordecai, but he doesn’t have much film, so it’s easy to understand why the staff is taking it slow with him. According to a source, Mordecai will be back this week, which means he will be available for evaluation when the staff hits the road again (likely during the open date next week). Right now, it appears Mordecai is at the top of the board with Denton Ryan’s Spencer Sanders coming in right behind him. There’s been a lot of talk about Sachse’s Jalen Mayden, but right now, he doesn’t appear to be anything more than a tertiary option at best. (Holland)
***
Malik Jefferson was the crown jewel of Texas’ 2015 class. The former five-star prospect played a major role in helping other top recruits pick Texas and that hasn’t changed two years late. Jefferson was a key figure last cycle and is continuing to make an impact with the 2017 class. Two of his top targets are a pair of five-star outside linebacker prospects — IMG Academy’s (Fla.) Dylan Moses and Kennedale’s Baron Browning.
“I have a really great relationship with Malik,” Moses said. “We don’t talk all the time, but whenever I come around UT, it’s good vibes. He’s a very outspoken guy. He’s a great guy He’s a leader, those are the types of people you want to be around.” Moses spent quite a bit of time with Jefferson during his unofficial visit in the spring and recently tweeted out a photo of the two in Austin. Right now, LSU seems to be the leader in Moses’ recruitment, but Texas is hanging around and might be right behind the Tigers. And Jefferson is sure to play a factor when he makes his decision Dec. 15.
On the other side of the coin, Jefferson and Browning have grown extremely close over the last couple of months. Browning spent nearly his whole time on campus with Jefferson during his unofficial visit for Under The Lights in July. Browning even joked around about being Jefferson’s father — sorry, @ChuckFnStrong — and shared a story about their fun loving relationship. “I hit him up all the time,” Browning said. “We talk through snap or DM. I messaged him the other day. He went to Sam’s (Ehlinger) game, and I asked him why he hasn’t come to my games. And he said I haven’t committed yet. I was like ‘touché.’”
Browning had an opportunity to watch Jefferson in person when the Longhorns came away with a huge win over Notre Dame to open the season. Browning said he looks to Jefferson for influence on his own game. “I take some things from it,” Browning said. “He’s pretty good coming off the edge. I was still new to it last year because I played safety the majority of my high school career. I picked up some things that I will probably use.” Browning is set to make his decision Nov. 29. Texas and Stanford are considered the favorites, but schools like Michigan, Ohio State and TCU are hanging around. (Holland)
Here are some recruiting rumblings we heard while out on the road over the weekend:
1. Love for Strong
I spoke to a number of parents at this weekend’s games and asked them about Charlie Strong. Each time, the answer was the same — Strong is a great man doing great things for with the Texas program. All parents said they would love for their son to play for Strong and believe in his vision for the future of Texas football. As one parent of a top target put it, Strong is exactly the type of man you want your son to learn from both on and off the field. Strong has proven that his best trait as a recruiter is winning over parents and that should once again play huge in this cycle.
2. Love for Traylor
Strong wasn’t the only Texas coach who received praise during my weekend extravaganza of covering five games in three days. Jeff Traylor was praised by East Texas commits Montrell Estell and Damion Miller. Both said Traylor was such an effective recruiter in the area because they can relate to him and feel like he’s one of them. They also added that Traylor has a great personality and keeps things real. I also talked to two prominent East Texas sources that made it clear Texas needs to do everything to keep him this offseason because his phone will likely be ringing off the hook with job offers.
3. The deal with Moses
I talked to a number of people about five-star linebacker Dylan Moses this weekend, including one very close source. From what I gathered, Texas still has a very good shot with Moses. But honestly, his decision hinges on what happens at LSU. If the program implodes and Les Miles is fired, Texas’ chances will skyrocket. If LSU gets past its current issues and Miles stays, I fully believe Moses will be playing in Baton Rouge next season. So where do things stand right now? I believe Texas has a slight edge over Alabama for that second spot behind LSU. Moses and his father love Strong, the five-star prospect has a great relationship with Malik Jefferson and Texas is showing that it’s on the verge of something special.
4. Status of current commits
There have been some questions regarding the strength of Damion Miller’s commitment to Texas. But there isn’t much to worry about. Ole Miss has dropped off and Texas A&M is the only school really pushing for his services. Miller said the Aggies call all the time, but he doesn’t really have any interest. Alabama was pushing for Montrell Estell and was slated to receive an official visit, but that appears to be over and done with. Overall, I believe Miller and Estell will stick with Texas and sign with the Longhorns in February.
5. The 2018 QB situation
We went out to see Waco Midway’s Tanner Mordecai over weekend, but he didn’t play due to injury. Texas really likes Mordecai, but he doesn’t have much film, so it’s easy to understand why the staff is taking it slow with him. According to a source, Mordecai will be back this week, which means he will be available for evaluation when the staff hits the road again (likely during the open date next week). Right now, it appears Mordecai is at the top of the board with Denton Ryan’s Spencer Sanders coming in right behind him. There’s been a lot of talk about Sachse’s Jalen Mayden, but right now, he doesn’t appear to be anything more than a tertiary option at best. (Holland)
***
Malik Jefferson was the crown jewel of Texas’ 2015 class. The former five-star prospect played a major role in helping other top recruits pick Texas and that hasn’t changed two years late. Jefferson was a key figure last cycle and is continuing to make an impact with the 2017 class. Two of his top targets are a pair of five-star outside linebacker prospects — IMG Academy’s (Fla.) Dylan Moses and Kennedale’s Baron Browning.
“I have a really great relationship with Malik,” Moses said. “We don’t talk all the time, but whenever I come around UT, it’s good vibes. He’s a very outspoken guy. He’s a great guy He’s a leader, those are the types of people you want to be around.” Moses spent quite a bit of time with Jefferson during his unofficial visit in the spring and recently tweeted out a photo of the two in Austin. Right now, LSU seems to be the leader in Moses’ recruitment, but Texas is hanging around and might be right behind the Tigers. And Jefferson is sure to play a factor when he makes his decision Dec. 15.
On the other side of the coin, Jefferson and Browning have grown extremely close over the last couple of months. Browning spent nearly his whole time on campus with Jefferson during his unofficial visit for Under The Lights in July. Browning even joked around about being Jefferson’s father — sorry, @ChuckFnStrong — and shared a story about their fun loving relationship. “I hit him up all the time,” Browning said. “We talk through snap or DM. I messaged him the other day. He went to Sam’s (Ehlinger) game, and I asked him why he hasn’t come to my games. And he said I haven’t committed yet. I was like ‘touché.’”
Browning had an opportunity to watch Jefferson in person when the Longhorns came away with a huge win over Notre Dame to open the season. Browning said he looks to Jefferson for influence on his own game. “I take some things from it,” Browning said. “He’s pretty good coming off the edge. I was still new to it last year because I played safety the majority of my high school career. I picked up some things that I will probably use.” Browning is set to make his decision Nov. 29. Texas and Stanford are considered the favorites, but schools like Michigan, Ohio State and TCU are hanging around. (Holland)
Jason Higdon, Inside Access -- September 13th, 2016:
Chat Intro – As we approach the stretch run this recruiting cycle, it’s time to take a look at where we are and where we will finish from a numbers point of view. By the way, the stretch run for me and Texas starts November 26th, 2016 the day after the win against TCU at home. Three days later two big time targets, Baron Browning/Anthony Hines will make their decisions known to the country. Two weeks after that, Dylan Moses on December 15th, 2016 will make his intentions known to the country. Three five-star linebackers all with Texas at or near the top or their respective boards of favorite teams.
Dylan Moses – Alabama, LSU, Miami, Ohio State and Texas are the teams in play
Baron Browning – Notre Dame, Ohio State, TCU, Texas and UCLA are the teams in play
Anthony Hines – Auburn, Ohio State, Oklahoma, TCU and Texas are the teams in play – However, I would add the Aggies for sure when it comes to possible destinations for Anthony Hines, Junior.
The only team in America with a remote chance to land these three five-star linebackers is Charlie Strong and the Texas Longhorns. It’s better to be the team with that chance, regardless of how small it might end up being. Texas is sitting with eight verbal commitments –
DE L. Carson
DB M. Estell
DE T. Graham
DB K. Boyce
OL X. Newman
QB S. Ehlinger
DB J. Thompson
WR D. Miller
Today, I am expecting a class size of 20.
DL 4
LB 3
DB 4
QB 1
RB 1
WR 2
OL 3
Next available players as a + 2 scenario, whether it’s a TE, WR, DL or QB.
Q & A --
Do you think all the true freshman who are currently on the roster will be here next year?
I have some question marks, but it’s a bit early for me to say with certainty. For now, I will say they remain especially with the kind of success I believe the team will have this year AND next year. Going to be hard to walk away from the team moving forward. Some other positions I would think are more likely to have some natural attrition, and I mean by class not position.
Let's flip the question. Why should UT recruit Major Tennison any further or prize his signature? Is he a quality enough move blocker to fit in this offense?
I don’t know how physical he is at this point in time. Let me flip the question back to you my friend. If you are a TE are you going to ink with the Longhorns from what you have witnessed over the first two weeks of the season?
Now two games in we have a tremendous amount of new information about where we the young players are regarding talent and readiness to play. How does that new information affect our 2017 recruiting priorities, either regarding a position group or an individual recruit?
It does not impact the recruiting from a personnel point of view. Texas was well aware of strengths and weaknesses before the actual playing of the first two games. However, it’s been nice to have some of those thoughts reaffirmed on the field. They still have the same guys at or near the top of the board based on team needs. Now, you may see some new guys come into play because of the hype machine surrounding the Texas program, but not because of the way the players are playing the game. Not at least right now in my mind.
Over/Under on 2 OOS 5-stars signing with Texas on NSD?
Can I take a push? LOL Just kidding – Right now I would take the under on Texas signing two OOS Five-Star kids for sure. Possibly and I do mean possibly you could see them with two on NSD depending on a lot of factors, but I would not think they can sign any more than two.
Can you rate of these guys 1 through 3 with 1 being the guy you are most confident about Moses, Browning, A.Hines?
For me, it’s pretty simple. Browning, Hines, and Moses. The thing to remember with these kinds of questions is this. I could have BB at 100% to Texas and AH at 12% to Texas and DM at 2% to Texas. WIDE range of gaps between the three potentially. I only listed those numbers to give you an idea, so people don’t take my answer the wrong way. Clearly, those are not my % projections – those I would not do this early in the season. The real season for me starts after Texas plays TCU at the end of the year.
This appears to be a pic of Okudah throwing up the Horns....Is this anything to be excited about? Do you love his game?
I believe he has Ohio State way out front. Let’s see where he goes moving forward in regards to trips. Texas will not let this one go quietly though so time will tell. Recruiting is a marathon not a sprint to the finish.
Higs, After we saw more young guys in action. What is better right now the OL or DL in terms of youth?
DL and in my mind not even close – however, I do like the OL players and believe they will be the No 1 unit in the Big 12 in 2017 by far, and I mean it won’t even be close. The DL/OL in 2017 will remind me of a SEC type of OL and DL. I do not mean that in a negative way directed at the Big 12 at all. It’s just what Texas will have in 2017 reminds me of so many teams I have watched over the years.
And....what do we need more this offseason OL or DL to get to the elite level at those spots?
You can never have enough OL or DL no matter who you have on the roster, but for the sake of answering the question, I am going with the OL.
Hey Higs, can you please tell us more about the plan for Shane & Sam in 2017? Because you've stated both are fine with the plan, I'm not concerned about QB. I'm simply curious. Thanks!
They will both play – They will get Sam up to speed as quickly as possible.
Who is our Starting/backup QB in each season 2017, 2018, & 2019?
No way I could even begin to answer this question, but pretty good bet it’s going to be the Shane and Sam show for the next couple of years in Austin.
Update on Moses, Browning, Little, Wilson, Okudah, and Najee Harris.
Nothing has changed on Dylan Moses. He says he is taking an OV to Texas so we shall see what transpires until then. I like Browning, Walker Little, and Marvin right now and the way things are trending. Forget about Beal in my mind and no one from NY has a written offer from Charlie Strong. You can forget about Najee Harris as well and trail on Okudah right now, BUT as NSD gets closer will he stick with Ohio State in the end?
When do you think the next wave of offers will go out?
You will not see another “Wave” of offers, but you will see some throughout the recruiting cycle from time to time.
Wilson, Little, Browning, Hines, Moses, Dobbins, Chiasson. Over/Under 5.5?
Are you asking me in September to possibly predict Texas landing six five-star kids? Ouch – That my friend is asking a lot. I will say, looking at each of those kids you will be hard pressed to find any analyst predict a team other than Texas as the team too but other than Chaisson, Moses and of course Dobbins because he’s already announced for another team. Marvin Wilson could end up at LSU with Chaisson and if that happens how much would that factor in for Dylan Moses sticking with the Tigers? Dobbins could clearly stick with Urban Meyer, a coach who doesn’t lose many kids he truly wants to hold and ink. Walker could opt for the Stanford degree, and I don’t think anyone could or would blame him. Browning to another school would be surprising, and Hines could opt for the Aggies. It could all happen that quickly. To make this fair, you need to set the O/U at 3.5 or fair might not be the right word so let’s say interesting instead of fair.
Out of this group: Odukah, Dobbins, Leatherwood, Moses, Calloway, Reagor, Barnes, AJ Davis, Chaisson and Little would take the over or under at 3.5 end up in burnt orange? Could this 17 year’s class be the talk of NSD again?
Just taking things for face value for a moment – and a lot of times when I do this person think this is what I believe --*****NOTE***** I am not necessarily saying this is what I believe or think, or maybe I am, but do not assume this is what I am feeling behind the scenes just because I am throwing it out to you at this time.
Jeffrey Okudah – A kid who has shown little interest in Texas at this time and looks like he has Ohio State as the team to beat today.
JK Dobbins – A verbal to Ohio State for a long time now
Alex Leatherwood – Has never visited the Texas campus and was not even offered until late August of his senior season
Dylan Moses – LSU Commit for years before opening things up. Has visited Texas multiple times and even stated at one time Texas was the leader
Chevin Calloway – Iowa verbal and has family in Iowa I believe
Jalen Reagor – Oklahoma verbal
Robert Barnes – Oklahoma verbal and was recruiting like crazy for the Sooners behind closed doors.
AJ Davis – Another OOS kid who has never stepped foot on the Texas campus unless I missed it?
K'Lavon Chaisson – Maybe 50-50 with Texas and LSU coming down to the wire.
Walker Little – I think it’s Texas and Stanford, and some feel the Cardinal degree is hard to pass up on
I feel good about a few for sure from this list right now. Some people would go all in and say, “Hey, its September let me take the over,” and “hope” it works out in my favor, and I end up being correct. I, however, do not operate like that, so I am going with the under for this group of players you listed considering the 3.5 bar you set. I believe they will once again be the talk on NSD.
Do you think announcement on the same day for browning and Hines is significant?
How could it not? Whether it means good OR bad how could those two announcing on the same day not be significant?
If there was a scenario where Hines and Browning's commit does it, affect our chances with Moses.
I have gone out of my way to tell you Texas is not going to land all three of those kids. However, they are the only team in the country that could land all three. You are never going to see me say they are going to land those three kids.
Whatever happened to AJ Davis RB out of Florida??? At first, you seemed to like that kid, but he never made it to campus not even sure if we will get an official?
I love the kid's ability—I think he is one heck of a player, but we did not see him visit over the summer as was suggested. He could end up in the Big 12 though which would be pretty interesting to see unfold. I think there is still a scenario where he will take a trip to Texas after the season.
Chat Intro – As we approach the stretch run this recruiting cycle, it’s time to take a look at where we are and where we will finish from a numbers point of view. By the way, the stretch run for me and Texas starts November 26th, 2016 the day after the win against TCU at home. Three days later two big time targets, Baron Browning/Anthony Hines will make their decisions known to the country. Two weeks after that, Dylan Moses on December 15th, 2016 will make his intentions known to the country. Three five-star linebackers all with Texas at or near the top or their respective boards of favorite teams.
Dylan Moses – Alabama, LSU, Miami, Ohio State and Texas are the teams in play
Baron Browning – Notre Dame, Ohio State, TCU, Texas and UCLA are the teams in play
Anthony Hines – Auburn, Ohio State, Oklahoma, TCU and Texas are the teams in play – However, I would add the Aggies for sure when it comes to possible destinations for Anthony Hines, Junior.
The only team in America with a remote chance to land these three five-star linebackers is Charlie Strong and the Texas Longhorns. It’s better to be the team with that chance, regardless of how small it might end up being. Texas is sitting with eight verbal commitments –
DE L. Carson
DB M. Estell
DE T. Graham
DB K. Boyce
OL X. Newman
QB S. Ehlinger
DB J. Thompson
WR D. Miller
Today, I am expecting a class size of 20.
DL 4
LB 3
DB 4
QB 1
RB 1
WR 2
OL 3
Next available players as a + 2 scenario, whether it’s a TE, WR, DL or QB.
Q & A --
Do you think all the true freshman who are currently on the roster will be here next year?
I have some question marks, but it’s a bit early for me to say with certainty. For now, I will say they remain especially with the kind of success I believe the team will have this year AND next year. Going to be hard to walk away from the team moving forward. Some other positions I would think are more likely to have some natural attrition, and I mean by class not position.
Let's flip the question. Why should UT recruit Major Tennison any further or prize his signature? Is he a quality enough move blocker to fit in this offense?
I don’t know how physical he is at this point in time. Let me flip the question back to you my friend. If you are a TE are you going to ink with the Longhorns from what you have witnessed over the first two weeks of the season?
Now two games in we have a tremendous amount of new information about where we the young players are regarding talent and readiness to play. How does that new information affect our 2017 recruiting priorities, either regarding a position group or an individual recruit?
It does not impact the recruiting from a personnel point of view. Texas was well aware of strengths and weaknesses before the actual playing of the first two games. However, it’s been nice to have some of those thoughts reaffirmed on the field. They still have the same guys at or near the top of the board based on team needs. Now, you may see some new guys come into play because of the hype machine surrounding the Texas program, but not because of the way the players are playing the game. Not at least right now in my mind.
Over/Under on 2 OOS 5-stars signing with Texas on NSD?
Can I take a push? LOL Just kidding – Right now I would take the under on Texas signing two OOS Five-Star kids for sure. Possibly and I do mean possibly you could see them with two on NSD depending on a lot of factors, but I would not think they can sign any more than two.
Can you rate of these guys 1 through 3 with 1 being the guy you are most confident about Moses, Browning, A.Hines?
For me, it’s pretty simple. Browning, Hines, and Moses. The thing to remember with these kinds of questions is this. I could have BB at 100% to Texas and AH at 12% to Texas and DM at 2% to Texas. WIDE range of gaps between the three potentially. I only listed those numbers to give you an idea, so people don’t take my answer the wrong way. Clearly, those are not my % projections – those I would not do this early in the season. The real season for me starts after Texas plays TCU at the end of the year.
This appears to be a pic of Okudah throwing up the Horns....Is this anything to be excited about? Do you love his game?
I believe he has Ohio State way out front. Let’s see where he goes moving forward in regards to trips. Texas will not let this one go quietly though so time will tell. Recruiting is a marathon not a sprint to the finish.
Higs, After we saw more young guys in action. What is better right now the OL or DL in terms of youth?
DL and in my mind not even close – however, I do like the OL players and believe they will be the No 1 unit in the Big 12 in 2017 by far, and I mean it won’t even be close. The DL/OL in 2017 will remind me of a SEC type of OL and DL. I do not mean that in a negative way directed at the Big 12 at all. It’s just what Texas will have in 2017 reminds me of so many teams I have watched over the years.
And....what do we need more this offseason OL or DL to get to the elite level at those spots?
You can never have enough OL or DL no matter who you have on the roster, but for the sake of answering the question, I am going with the OL.
Hey Higs, can you please tell us more about the plan for Shane & Sam in 2017? Because you've stated both are fine with the plan, I'm not concerned about QB. I'm simply curious. Thanks!
They will both play – They will get Sam up to speed as quickly as possible.
Who is our Starting/backup QB in each season 2017, 2018, & 2019?
No way I could even begin to answer this question, but pretty good bet it’s going to be the Shane and Sam show for the next couple of years in Austin.
Update on Moses, Browning, Little, Wilson, Okudah, and Najee Harris.
Nothing has changed on Dylan Moses. He says he is taking an OV to Texas so we shall see what transpires until then. I like Browning, Walker Little, and Marvin right now and the way things are trending. Forget about Beal in my mind and no one from NY has a written offer from Charlie Strong. You can forget about Najee Harris as well and trail on Okudah right now, BUT as NSD gets closer will he stick with Ohio State in the end?
When do you think the next wave of offers will go out?
You will not see another “Wave” of offers, but you will see some throughout the recruiting cycle from time to time.
Wilson, Little, Browning, Hines, Moses, Dobbins, Chiasson. Over/Under 5.5?
Are you asking me in September to possibly predict Texas landing six five-star kids? Ouch – That my friend is asking a lot. I will say, looking at each of those kids you will be hard pressed to find any analyst predict a team other than Texas as the team too but other than Chaisson, Moses and of course Dobbins because he’s already announced for another team. Marvin Wilson could end up at LSU with Chaisson and if that happens how much would that factor in for Dylan Moses sticking with the Tigers? Dobbins could clearly stick with Urban Meyer, a coach who doesn’t lose many kids he truly wants to hold and ink. Walker could opt for the Stanford degree, and I don’t think anyone could or would blame him. Browning to another school would be surprising, and Hines could opt for the Aggies. It could all happen that quickly. To make this fair, you need to set the O/U at 3.5 or fair might not be the right word so let’s say interesting instead of fair.
Out of this group: Odukah, Dobbins, Leatherwood, Moses, Calloway, Reagor, Barnes, AJ Davis, Chaisson and Little would take the over or under at 3.5 end up in burnt orange? Could this 17 year’s class be the talk of NSD again?
Just taking things for face value for a moment – and a lot of times when I do this person think this is what I believe --*****NOTE***** I am not necessarily saying this is what I believe or think, or maybe I am, but do not assume this is what I am feeling behind the scenes just because I am throwing it out to you at this time.
Jeffrey Okudah – A kid who has shown little interest in Texas at this time and looks like he has Ohio State as the team to beat today.
JK Dobbins – A verbal to Ohio State for a long time now
Alex Leatherwood – Has never visited the Texas campus and was not even offered until late August of his senior season
Dylan Moses – LSU Commit for years before opening things up. Has visited Texas multiple times and even stated at one time Texas was the leader
Chevin Calloway – Iowa verbal and has family in Iowa I believe
Jalen Reagor – Oklahoma verbal
Robert Barnes – Oklahoma verbal and was recruiting like crazy for the Sooners behind closed doors.
AJ Davis – Another OOS kid who has never stepped foot on the Texas campus unless I missed it?
K'Lavon Chaisson – Maybe 50-50 with Texas and LSU coming down to the wire.
Walker Little – I think it’s Texas and Stanford, and some feel the Cardinal degree is hard to pass up on
I feel good about a few for sure from this list right now. Some people would go all in and say, “Hey, its September let me take the over,” and “hope” it works out in my favor, and I end up being correct. I, however, do not operate like that, so I am going with the under for this group of players you listed considering the 3.5 bar you set. I believe they will once again be the talk on NSD.
Do you think announcement on the same day for browning and Hines is significant?
How could it not? Whether it means good OR bad how could those two announcing on the same day not be significant?
If there was a scenario where Hines and Browning's commit does it, affect our chances with Moses.
I have gone out of my way to tell you Texas is not going to land all three of those kids. However, they are the only team in the country that could land all three. You are never going to see me say they are going to land those three kids.
Whatever happened to AJ Davis RB out of Florida??? At first, you seemed to like that kid, but he never made it to campus not even sure if we will get an official?
I love the kid's ability—I think he is one heck of a player, but we did not see him visit over the summer as was suggested. He could end up in the Big 12 though which would be pretty interesting to see unfold. I think there is still a scenario where he will take a trip to Texas after the season.
EJ Holland
— According to an Alabama source, five-star offensive lineman Alex Leatherwood is solid to the Crimson Tide but could waver if position coach Mario Cristobal leaves after the year, which is a possibility. Right now, Michigan, Florida and USC are the biggest threats, according to the source. However, I’m told his interest in Texas is legitimate and that the Longhorns could join those aforementioned programs.
— According to multiple sources, four-star safety and Oklahoma commit Robert Barnes is considering Texas more strongly than ever. As we recently reported, Barnes plans to make an official visit at some point before signing day. Remember, Barnes’ uncle is Winfred Tubbs and he is a former teammate of freshman Lil’Jordan Humphrey. Both have been recruiting him.
— Barnes isn’t the only Oklahoma commit that Texas is making an impact on. I’m told four-star Waxahachie wide receiver Jalen Reagor is pondering making an official visit to Austin. TCU seems to be the bigger threat to flip him at this time but make no mistake about it, the win over Notre Dame caught his attention, and the staff is pushing for him.
— A player Texas could revisit this fall is Henderson athlete and TCU commit Trestan Ebner. I’ve been told that if the Longhorns offer, he would definitely be open to listening. Ebner has the potential to play both wide receiver and safety at the next level. UT originally recruited him as a wide receiver, but he might make a better safety option. Either way, he is one to monitor.
— According to an Alabama source, five-star offensive lineman Alex Leatherwood is solid to the Crimson Tide but could waver if position coach Mario Cristobal leaves after the year, which is a possibility. Right now, Michigan, Florida and USC are the biggest threats, according to the source. However, I’m told his interest in Texas is legitimate and that the Longhorns could join those aforementioned programs.
— According to multiple sources, four-star safety and Oklahoma commit Robert Barnes is considering Texas more strongly than ever. As we recently reported, Barnes plans to make an official visit at some point before signing day. Remember, Barnes’ uncle is Winfred Tubbs and he is a former teammate of freshman Lil’Jordan Humphrey. Both have been recruiting him.
— Barnes isn’t the only Oklahoma commit that Texas is making an impact on. I’m told four-star Waxahachie wide receiver Jalen Reagor is pondering making an official visit to Austin. TCU seems to be the bigger threat to flip him at this time but make no mistake about it, the win over Notre Dame caught his attention, and the staff is pushing for him.
— A player Texas could revisit this fall is Henderson athlete and TCU commit Trestan Ebner. I’ve been told that if the Longhorns offer, he would definitely be open to listening. Ebner has the potential to play both wide receiver and safety at the next level. UT originally recruited him as a wide receiver, but he might make a better safety option. Either way, he is one to monitor.
I wouldn't put too much stock in it, but why else who a young man chose to celebrate a TD in this way? It at least shows that he is considering Texas once again...
RECRUIT STATS
QB Sam Ehlinger (Westlake; Austin) In a thrilling 32-29 win to open the season over powerhouse Katy, Ehlinger, a Rivals100 member, completed 17-of-27 passes for 256 yards and a touchdown. He also added 63 rushing yards on 17 carries with another score. Unfortunately, Ehlinger injured his knees in that game, and will be out a few more weeks.
WR Damion Miller (John Tyler; Tyler) Against Easton (Louisiana), Miller's only catch was a big one. The four-star Texas commitment scored on a 76-yard touchdown pass, and played his part in a dominant, 41-6 victory for John Tyler (3-0).
So far in 2016, Miller has 307 yards receiving, and is averaging a ridiculous 43.7 yards per catch. He's found the end zone four times.
DE LaGaryonn Carson (Liberty-Eylau; Texarkana) The four-star defensive end was back in action this week, and produced to the tune of 11 tackles (3.0 TFL), four quarterback hurries, and a pass defended. However, it wasn't enough for Liberty-Eylau, who is now 0-3 after a 48-37 loss to Texas High.
DB Kobe Boyce (Lake Dallas; Corinth) In a 59-40 loss to Prestonwood Christian, Boyce made five tackles, caught one pass for 73 yards, and returned a punt for 34 yards. Lake Dallas is now 1-2.
This season, Boyce has 12.0 total tackles, 1.0 tackles for a loss, one pass defended, is returning punts and kickoffs, and 98 total yards on offense.
OL Xavier Newman (DeSoto; DeSoto) Newman and DeSoto racked up 623 yards on offense, including 355 on the ground (10.8 yards per carry) in a 43-17 win over Dallas Jesuit.
DB/WR Montrell Estell (Hooks; Hooks) Hooks moved into the win column for the first time this year (1-2) with a 25-13 win over Mount Vernon.
There are no stats available, but let's just say Estell provided plenty of highlights and production, including one touchdown run when he appeared to hurdle not one, but two defenders. Seriously.
DB Josh Thompson (Nacogdoches; Nacogdoches) On the road against Tyler Lee, Thompson and Nacogdoches left with a 24-17 win, and moved to 2-1 this season. No stats are available, but based on the video highlights it looks like Thompson had a long punt return for a touchdown.
DE Taquon Graham (Temple; Temple) According to a report, Graham did not play in Temple's 26-20 loss to Midway due to a hip injury.
This season, he has four tackles.
QB Sam Ehlinger (Westlake; Austin) In a thrilling 32-29 win to open the season over powerhouse Katy, Ehlinger, a Rivals100 member, completed 17-of-27 passes for 256 yards and a touchdown. He also added 63 rushing yards on 17 carries with another score. Unfortunately, Ehlinger injured his knees in that game, and will be out a few more weeks.
WR Damion Miller (John Tyler; Tyler) Against Easton (Louisiana), Miller's only catch was a big one. The four-star Texas commitment scored on a 76-yard touchdown pass, and played his part in a dominant, 41-6 victory for John Tyler (3-0).
So far in 2016, Miller has 307 yards receiving, and is averaging a ridiculous 43.7 yards per catch. He's found the end zone four times.
DE LaGaryonn Carson (Liberty-Eylau; Texarkana) The four-star defensive end was back in action this week, and produced to the tune of 11 tackles (3.0 TFL), four quarterback hurries, and a pass defended. However, it wasn't enough for Liberty-Eylau, who is now 0-3 after a 48-37 loss to Texas High.
DB Kobe Boyce (Lake Dallas; Corinth) In a 59-40 loss to Prestonwood Christian, Boyce made five tackles, caught one pass for 73 yards, and returned a punt for 34 yards. Lake Dallas is now 1-2.
This season, Boyce has 12.0 total tackles, 1.0 tackles for a loss, one pass defended, is returning punts and kickoffs, and 98 total yards on offense.
OL Xavier Newman (DeSoto; DeSoto) Newman and DeSoto racked up 623 yards on offense, including 355 on the ground (10.8 yards per carry) in a 43-17 win over Dallas Jesuit.
DB/WR Montrell Estell (Hooks; Hooks) Hooks moved into the win column for the first time this year (1-2) with a 25-13 win over Mount Vernon.
There are no stats available, but let's just say Estell provided plenty of highlights and production, including one touchdown run when he appeared to hurdle not one, but two defenders. Seriously.
DB Josh Thompson (Nacogdoches; Nacogdoches) On the road against Tyler Lee, Thompson and Nacogdoches left with a 24-17 win, and moved to 2-1 this season. No stats are available, but based on the video highlights it looks like Thompson had a long punt return for a touchdown.
DE Taquon Graham (Temple; Temple) According to a report, Graham did not play in Temple's 26-20 loss to Midway due to a hip injury.
This season, he has four tackles.
On recruiting, it appears Texas certainly has the edge with three of the top four recruits in the state. From what I was told they really just wanted to see if Texas was taking the next step and by all accounts are already helping Texas with other recruits. going to be a fun couple of months. Lots of recruits/players working dobbins as well. Texas might be very close to getting an Aggsy flip. I wouldn't be shocked if Texas flipped 3 guys by Feb. They are listening and two of them contacted Texas.
If Texas gets to 8-10 wins I expect the recruits to start rolling in. At that point strong is no longer selling a vision of what Texas could be. You are seeing the reality. An 8-10 win season also makes us pre season top 5 going in to next year as well.
did not want to start a new thread, but just wanted to say that we are lucky to have missed out on du'vonta lampkin. He is serving a 6 game suspension and unknown why.
Dwayne Orso and DuVonta Lampkin are currently serving 6-Gm suspensions, dating back to Orange Bowl. Stoops said they're progressing but that's the story - So he will miss the the UT game 
Unless they need him. Bob let one guy play in the Houton game that he suspended for rules violation but made it the second game instead of the first...very sumlin like.
The Dallas Morning News is reporting, Oklahoma defensive ends Matt Dimon and Austin Roberts are suspended for the Sooners' game against Louisiana-Monroe for a violation of team rules.
ok..sorry, back on topic
Unless they need him. Bob let one guy play in the Houton game that he suspended for rules violation but made it the second game instead of the first...very sumlin like.The Dallas Morning News is reporting, Oklahoma defensive ends Matt Dimon and Austin Roberts are suspended for the Sooners' game against Louisiana-Monroe for a violation of team rules.
ok..sorry, back on topic
Some notes from 24/7...-Texas sits in a better spot with CB Kary Vincent of Port Arthur Memorial than most people realize.
-the UT coaches gave their blessing to CB Josh Thompson and CB Kobe Boyce to take their official visits to TCU and OU this weekend.
-the UT coaches gave their blessing to CB Josh Thompson and CB Kobe Boyce to take their official visits to TCU and OU this weekend.
Good article about the burden of recruiting that can sometime be put on kids. I can only imagine what it's like to be 16-17 years old and be getting 50-60 phone calls a night!
http://sportsday.dallasnews.com/hig...mmitting-early-right-call-several-local-stars
http://sportsday.dallasnews.com/hig...mmitting-early-right-call-several-local-stars
War room:
Let's start off the recruiting portion of this week's War Room with a updates on a couple Rivals100 members the Longhorns are recruiting who are committed elsewhere.
First off, new UT offer Alex Leatherwood ...
The five-star Alabama offensive line commitment picked up a UT offer last Thursday. Leatherwood, out of Pensacola (FL) Washington, has been committed to Bama since June of last year. On the surface, it looked like Texas would be facing a near insurmountable task in getting him to consider the Longhorns. While it still feels like a longshot, Leatherwood told me this week he would like to get to Austin for a visit at some point.
Key quote:"I want to go check them out, check out the program, sit down and talk to coach (Charlie) Strong, the O-line coach," Leatherwood said.
A few factors to consider:Leatherwood's mother lives in Killeen, he's serious about his academics and he has one other connection to the UT program that can only help Texas' chances.
"My coach, he's actually really good friends with the strength coach there (Pat Moorer)," Leatherwood said.
How the offer went down:Leatherwood said Texas reached out to him on Twitter and he began texting with members of the UT staff. He eventually was put on the phone with Charlie Strong, at which time the offer was extended.
His thoughts on the offer ...
"I just like the tradition. And Charlie Strong himself. He's a great coach," Leatherwood said.
Friends with other UT prospects:Leatherwood is friends with a number of elite national prospects that he met at the Five-Star Challenge and at The Opening. That includes UT targets Marvin Wilson and Baron Browning. Leatherwood said those two are not recruiting him to Texas, but knowing they have an interest in the Longhorns is something he's aware of.
"That got mixed up. They're not recruiting me there," Leatherwood said. "I just know they had interest in that school, and they're two of my really good friends. That's what strengthens my interest in Texas, because my relationship with those two."
Upcoming visits:So far, Leatherwood has two official visits set up. He'll be at Michigan the weekend of October 1 for the Wisconsin game, and will be at Alabama the weekend of November 26 when the Crimson Tide hosts Auburn.
He does want to take all five of his visits, but said his remaining three are "up in the air" at this point.
Key factors:The 6-5, 298-pound Leatherwood wants to double major in engineering and business. Gotta love the ambition. As far as what a school like Michigan, Texas or anyone else would have to do to get him to seriously reconsider his Alabama commitment, Leatherwood said a few factors will weigh heavily into his final decision.
"It's not what they have to do. Just show me what they have the offer, then I'll weigh the two out and see what's best for me," Leatherwood said. "Academics will be a big part, then seeing how well I click with the offensive line coach, where Ii see the program going, things of that nature." (Suchomel)
******
Rivals100 defensive back Chevin Calloway committed to Iowa back in July, choosing the Longhorns over offers from just about every major program in the country. The Dallas Bishop Dunne prospect is keeping his options open just a bit, and he was in Austin a couple weeks ago for the Longhorns' season-opening win over Notre Dame.
Key quote:"It was a great experience. One of the best game I've been to in a while," Calloway said. "I had fun. I enjoyed it. My family enjoyed it. It was a big game, they gave us tickets, so came down there and watched."
Calloway was accompanied on the unofficial visit by his mother, sister and stepfather. The Texas coaches didn't try to put a lot of recruiting pressure on Calloway, but made it clear he's still very much on their radar.
"They just told me they still very interested in me," Calloway said. "They told me to just watch how the season goes, let them know if I ever have a change of heart. Right now, I'm a strong commit to Iowa. But like I said, we'll see how the season goes, just continue to pray about things, see what happens, see how things go."
Upcoming visits:Calloway does not have any official visits lined up at this point. He's trying to set one up for Iowa and will either take that one in a couple weeks (against Northwestern on October 1) or wait until after the season.
He's also planning unofficial visits for Arkansas on November 12 and Ole Miss on October 15.
Thoughts on his Iowa commitment:Not many kids leave the state of Texas to go play at Iowa ... especially not those as high-profile as Calloway. The 5-10, 180-pounder said he's still happy with his decision, and it was a number of things that led him to pledge to the Hawkeyes.
"The graduation rate, the alumni base, the people down there are very genuine, the coaches' stability, development of players is very good," Calloway said. "Coach (Phil) Parker is a great coach, probably one of the best out there in college. That's what I like right now."
Distance away from home is something Calloway will have to deal with if he sticks with his commitment, and it sounds like he knows it could be tougher to overcome that obstacle as time goes on.
"f anything, I know it will be hard as far as family. Right now, I don't think about it, it's something that hasn't really registered. I'm not sure how it would be with them not seeing every game. That's something I'll have to think about," Calloway said.
Texas' success helping UT's cause:As is the case with most recruits, the Longhorns' fast start to the 2016 season has caught Calloway's attention.
"You think about it, a lot of guys, they'll say things like 'They're not good, Charlie Strong is not doing well.' But the guys playing right now are the guys Charlie recruited," Calloway said. "The guys last year and the year before, those were the guys Mack Brown recruited. The guys (Strong) recruited, they're really stepping up, big playmakers. He's serious about the guys they want. I think they're going to be good, but we'll see how it goes." (Suchomel)
******
A couple notes of interest on two UT commitments ...
Defensive backs Josh Thompson and Kobe Boyce will be taking official visits to TCU and Oklahoma, respectively.
Boyce's visit has been on the calendar for a while. He has maintained that he's solid with his UT pledge but wants to enjoy the process a bit, and I do believe that to be the case. Boyce's pledge seemed to solidify after his visit for the Longhorns' Under the Lights camp in July and then again after he took an unofficial visit for the Notre Dame game. Right now, I don't think there's any reason to panic with his commitment, but it's obviously worth watching any time a committed player takes a visit, particularly to a place like OU for a high-profile game against Ohio State.
(Note: Speaking of Ohio State-OU, in addition to Boyce, a number of UT targets, will be taking official visits to OU this weekend, including Marvin Wilson, Adrian Ealy, Jalen Reagor and Jeff Okudah).
With Thompson, the decision to take the TCU visit is a little more difficult to figure out. Thompson was committed to the Horned Frogs before flipping to Texas shortly after UT offered, so it's not like he's unfamiliar with the TCU program. And the Horned Frogs are hosting Iowa State at 11 a.m., so Thompson surely isn't going just to watch an exciting game.
This visit is a bit of a head-scratcher, but Thompson told me this week he has no intentions of opening up his recruitment
"Heck no," was Thompson's response when I asked if the Longhorns had anything to be worried about with the TCU visit. (Suchomel)
*****
One last note ... two committed WRs to watch for potential Texas official visits:
LSU commitment Mannie Netherly confirmed to us late last week that he wants to set up a visit to UT.
There were rumors early this week that Oklahoma commitment Jalen Reagor has set up an official visit to Texas. We're told that is not the case, but Reagor does want to take a UT visit and something could get set up in the future. (Suchomel)
Let's start off the recruiting portion of this week's War Room with a updates on a couple Rivals100 members the Longhorns are recruiting who are committed elsewhere.
First off, new UT offer Alex Leatherwood ...
The five-star Alabama offensive line commitment picked up a UT offer last Thursday. Leatherwood, out of Pensacola (FL) Washington, has been committed to Bama since June of last year. On the surface, it looked like Texas would be facing a near insurmountable task in getting him to consider the Longhorns. While it still feels like a longshot, Leatherwood told me this week he would like to get to Austin for a visit at some point.
Key quote:"I want to go check them out, check out the program, sit down and talk to coach (Charlie) Strong, the O-line coach," Leatherwood said.
A few factors to consider:Leatherwood's mother lives in Killeen, he's serious about his academics and he has one other connection to the UT program that can only help Texas' chances.
"My coach, he's actually really good friends with the strength coach there (Pat Moorer)," Leatherwood said.
How the offer went down:Leatherwood said Texas reached out to him on Twitter and he began texting with members of the UT staff. He eventually was put on the phone with Charlie Strong, at which time the offer was extended.
His thoughts on the offer ...
"I just like the tradition. And Charlie Strong himself. He's a great coach," Leatherwood said.
Friends with other UT prospects:Leatherwood is friends with a number of elite national prospects that he met at the Five-Star Challenge and at The Opening. That includes UT targets Marvin Wilson and Baron Browning. Leatherwood said those two are not recruiting him to Texas, but knowing they have an interest in the Longhorns is something he's aware of.
"That got mixed up. They're not recruiting me there," Leatherwood said. "I just know they had interest in that school, and they're two of my really good friends. That's what strengthens my interest in Texas, because my relationship with those two."
Upcoming visits:So far, Leatherwood has two official visits set up. He'll be at Michigan the weekend of October 1 for the Wisconsin game, and will be at Alabama the weekend of November 26 when the Crimson Tide hosts Auburn.
He does want to take all five of his visits, but said his remaining three are "up in the air" at this point.
Key factors:The 6-5, 298-pound Leatherwood wants to double major in engineering and business. Gotta love the ambition. As far as what a school like Michigan, Texas or anyone else would have to do to get him to seriously reconsider his Alabama commitment, Leatherwood said a few factors will weigh heavily into his final decision.
"It's not what they have to do. Just show me what they have the offer, then I'll weigh the two out and see what's best for me," Leatherwood said. "Academics will be a big part, then seeing how well I click with the offensive line coach, where Ii see the program going, things of that nature." (Suchomel)
******
Rivals100 defensive back Chevin Calloway committed to Iowa back in July, choosing the Longhorns over offers from just about every major program in the country. The Dallas Bishop Dunne prospect is keeping his options open just a bit, and he was in Austin a couple weeks ago for the Longhorns' season-opening win over Notre Dame.
Key quote:"It was a great experience. One of the best game I've been to in a while," Calloway said. "I had fun. I enjoyed it. My family enjoyed it. It was a big game, they gave us tickets, so came down there and watched."
Calloway was accompanied on the unofficial visit by his mother, sister and stepfather. The Texas coaches didn't try to put a lot of recruiting pressure on Calloway, but made it clear he's still very much on their radar.
"They just told me they still very interested in me," Calloway said. "They told me to just watch how the season goes, let them know if I ever have a change of heart. Right now, I'm a strong commit to Iowa. But like I said, we'll see how the season goes, just continue to pray about things, see what happens, see how things go."
Upcoming visits:Calloway does not have any official visits lined up at this point. He's trying to set one up for Iowa and will either take that one in a couple weeks (against Northwestern on October 1) or wait until after the season.
He's also planning unofficial visits for Arkansas on November 12 and Ole Miss on October 15.
Thoughts on his Iowa commitment:Not many kids leave the state of Texas to go play at Iowa ... especially not those as high-profile as Calloway. The 5-10, 180-pounder said he's still happy with his decision, and it was a number of things that led him to pledge to the Hawkeyes.
"The graduation rate, the alumni base, the people down there are very genuine, the coaches' stability, development of players is very good," Calloway said. "Coach (Phil) Parker is a great coach, probably one of the best out there in college. That's what I like right now."
Distance away from home is something Calloway will have to deal with if he sticks with his commitment, and it sounds like he knows it could be tougher to overcome that obstacle as time goes on.
"f anything, I know it will be hard as far as family. Right now, I don't think about it, it's something that hasn't really registered. I'm not sure how it would be with them not seeing every game. That's something I'll have to think about," Calloway said.
Texas' success helping UT's cause:As is the case with most recruits, the Longhorns' fast start to the 2016 season has caught Calloway's attention.
"You think about it, a lot of guys, they'll say things like 'They're not good, Charlie Strong is not doing well.' But the guys playing right now are the guys Charlie recruited," Calloway said. "The guys last year and the year before, those were the guys Mack Brown recruited. The guys (Strong) recruited, they're really stepping up, big playmakers. He's serious about the guys they want. I think they're going to be good, but we'll see how it goes." (Suchomel)
******
A couple notes of interest on two UT commitments ...
Defensive backs Josh Thompson and Kobe Boyce will be taking official visits to TCU and Oklahoma, respectively.
Boyce's visit has been on the calendar for a while. He has maintained that he's solid with his UT pledge but wants to enjoy the process a bit, and I do believe that to be the case. Boyce's pledge seemed to solidify after his visit for the Longhorns' Under the Lights camp in July and then again after he took an unofficial visit for the Notre Dame game. Right now, I don't think there's any reason to panic with his commitment, but it's obviously worth watching any time a committed player takes a visit, particularly to a place like OU for a high-profile game against Ohio State.
(Note: Speaking of Ohio State-OU, in addition to Boyce, a number of UT targets, will be taking official visits to OU this weekend, including Marvin Wilson, Adrian Ealy, Jalen Reagor and Jeff Okudah).
With Thompson, the decision to take the TCU visit is a little more difficult to figure out. Thompson was committed to the Horned Frogs before flipping to Texas shortly after UT offered, so it's not like he's unfamiliar with the TCU program. And the Horned Frogs are hosting Iowa State at 11 a.m., so Thompson surely isn't going just to watch an exciting game.
This visit is a bit of a head-scratcher, but Thompson told me this week he has no intentions of opening up his recruitment
"Heck no," was Thompson's response when I asked if the Longhorns had anything to be worried about with the TCU visit. (Suchomel)
*****
One last note ... two committed WRs to watch for potential Texas official visits:
LSU commitment Mannie Netherly confirmed to us late last week that he wants to set up a visit to UT.
There were rumors early this week that Oklahoma commitment Jalen Reagor has set up an official visit to Texas. We're told that is not the case, but Reagor does want to take a UT visit and something could get set up in the future. (Suchomel)
There have been some questions surrounding the commitment of Damion Miller. The four-star wide receiver out of John Tyler is a UT verbal pledge but has been open about his desire to make other visits this fall. However, that may no longer be the case. After taking in Texas’ monumental win over Notre Dame a few weeks ago, Miller said he is shutting things down — for good. “The Texas and Notre Dame game was crazy,” Miller said. “They kept fighting. They were being selfless. They played with each other. They never gave up. Their offensive game is crazy. (Shane) Buechele is out there doing really well. Their offensive coordinator’s play-calling is really good.”
Miller committed to Texas over offers from Houston, Kansas, Oklahoma State, Texas Tech and others in June of 2015. Ole Miss was once considered a serious player, but the Rebels dropped off. Texas A&M the only school that has continued to actively recruit Miller. Though, he doesn’t have much interest in the Aggies. “I am not considering anyone at all,” Miller said. “Texas A&M is still sending pictures or whatever.... they keep sending me in their A&M uniforms (laughs). I’m 100 percent committed to Texas.”
At 6-foot-1, 193 pounds, Miller is one of the best deep threat receivers in the country. His ability to stretch the field is exactly what Texas is looking for in its new offense. And Miller is excited to be a part of it soon. “They threw a lot of deep balls,” Miller said. “I liked that. I like deep balls. I don’t think anyone can stop me on deep balls. Once I saw that, I was like ‘oh yeah, that’s going to be me next year.’” Miller plans to make another unofficial visit to Texas at some point this fall. Miller is ranked as the No. 20 wide receiver in the nation and No. 22 overall prospect in the state, according to 247Sports Composite. (EJ Holland)
From a poster FWIW: had drinks with a guy last night who is good friends with Walker Little's parents. He said the dad like Stanford (how couldn't you?) and the mom like Texas for its proximity and academics. My guy seems to think he ends up at Texas. Same with Marvin Wilson.
As an EHS alum I can tell you that there are a lot of good people in our corner emphasizing how great Texas would be for both of them. We are a longhorn heavy school.
Bonus: when I asked about aggy chances, the answer was a shake of the head and a "hell no."
Miller committed to Texas over offers from Houston, Kansas, Oklahoma State, Texas Tech and others in June of 2015. Ole Miss was once considered a serious player, but the Rebels dropped off. Texas A&M the only school that has continued to actively recruit Miller. Though, he doesn’t have much interest in the Aggies. “I am not considering anyone at all,” Miller said. “Texas A&M is still sending pictures or whatever.... they keep sending me in their A&M uniforms (laughs). I’m 100 percent committed to Texas.”
At 6-foot-1, 193 pounds, Miller is one of the best deep threat receivers in the country. His ability to stretch the field is exactly what Texas is looking for in its new offense. And Miller is excited to be a part of it soon. “They threw a lot of deep balls,” Miller said. “I liked that. I like deep balls. I don’t think anyone can stop me on deep balls. Once I saw that, I was like ‘oh yeah, that’s going to be me next year.’” Miller plans to make another unofficial visit to Texas at some point this fall. Miller is ranked as the No. 20 wide receiver in the nation and No. 22 overall prospect in the state, according to 247Sports Composite. (EJ Holland)
From a poster FWIW: had drinks with a guy last night who is good friends with Walker Little's parents. He said the dad like Stanford (how couldn't you?) and the mom like Texas for its proximity and academics. My guy seems to think he ends up at Texas. Same with Marvin Wilson.
As an EHS alum I can tell you that there are a lot of good people in our corner emphasizing how great Texas would be for both of them. We are a longhorn heavy school.
Bonus: when I asked about aggy chances, the answer was a shake of the head and a "hell no."
josephcook
Inside Texas Writer
RECRUITING
"Charlie Strong has lost the Texas locker room." - Paul Finebaum, syndicated radio host for ESPN in 2015
"Nobody is going to Texas." - Allen QB Kyler Murray, in 2014, before signing with A&M, then transferring to OU
The Texas Football staff had plenty to be confident about after landing back-to-back Top 10 classes following an 11-14 start to Charlie Strong's tenure in Austin. If they could convince some of the nation's best to play on the 40 Acres after a subpar 2015, imagine what they could do when they started winning.
So, they started winning.
Strong was close to flipping the state back to UT's direction before the Notre Dame game. After hosting the elite of the elite during their 50-47 double-overtime win over the Fighting Irish on September 4th at DKR, Strong and his staff couldn't have written a better script.
If you thought they were positive before, now they're walking with a swagger across the state, high school to high school.
I talked to someone close to the staff this week and he revealed what they're looking for in 2017. If you thought 2015 and 2016's classes was incredible, wait until you see who they want, and expect to land in 2017.
The number I'm hearing is 22. At this moment, the staff feels they can grab 22 prospects from the next class. Now, 'numbers' are always a subject at Inside Texas. Despite us telling you last June that not only would there be room for the Baylor 5, they would also snag a Lou Groza Watch List kicker in the process. "But the numbers..." should never be uttered again. Strong has found a way to always stay on top of his roster. It's one of his endearing traits. Knowing who might not qualify, knowing who might transfer, and knowing it's 18-22 year old college football kids who can make mistakes. Attrition happens.
Let's take a quick look at who I'm told they feel supremely confident about and the wild cards.
IN (8):
Sam Ehlinger (QB), Damion Miller (WR), Lagaryonn Carson (DL), Josh Thompson (CB), Xavier Newman (OL), Kobe Boyce (CB), Montrell Estell (S), Taquon Graham (SDE).
Sam is the leader. Damion is the consummate deep threat. Carson qualifying could be an issue and they've got a backup plan, but at the moment they think he'll make it. Thompson went from silver to solid gold. Xavier flirted with OU then returned to his first love. Kobe is also good to go. Estell is already scoping out lakes around Austin to fish. Graham gets to play close to mom.
COMING SOON (8):
Baron Browning (LB), Levi Jones (LB), JK Dobbins (RB), Omar Manning (WR), Jalen Reagor (WR), Walker Little (OL), Marvin Wilson (DT), K'Lavon Chaisson (DE/OLB).
Baron Von Browning is as close to a pledge as it gets. Jones is starting to think playing close to home isn't so bad. The staff's relationship with Omar's coaches and aunt is building by the day. The backstory on Reagor is fascinating and will be told in due time. Little has always felt Longhornish. Wilson just needed a reason and persuasion from his family. With Chaisson, Strong's patience looks to pay off.
That's 16 and leaves six spots for wild cards. With the way Strong works in January, those could turn into aces. Plus, Strong has eyes on a few other OOS prospects. How much effort he puts into pursuing them remains to be seen.
WILD CARDS (14):
Anthony Hines (LB), Jeff Okudah (DB), Chuck Filiaga (OL), Kary Vincent (CB), Chevin Calloway (CB), Robert Barnes (S), Saaid Adebo (DB), Ondario Robinson (DE), Alec Jackson (DL), Major Tennison (TE), Ryan Johnson (DL), Alex Leatherwood (OL), Mannie Netherly (WR), Trevor Kent (TE).
Hines will go to the school who dotes on him the longest. Texas wants him, but they won't sacrifice dignity to get him. Okudah has a Deontay Anderson feel to it. He'll flirt with Texas the more they win, but may end up skydiving out of state. The staff really likes Filiaga and they think he feels the same way. Vincent has always stayed close to the staff despite pledging LSU. Calloway may have committed to Iowa, but I doubt he signs with Iowa. Barnes is more open then he lets on, but they feel he's still OU bound. Adebo is solid to Notre Dame...today. Robinson is the backup plan to Carson, but I get the sense they'd rather take someone else. Jackson is interested and I think he leaves the state. Tennison could re-commit right now, but the longer he waits, the less likely that offer stays. Johnson is interested too, but needs to OV to make it real interesting. Same for Leatherwood, who's mom lives in Austin. Netherly could've committed this summer and almost did, until they signed Devin Duvernay. They might circle back if they don't land the Big 3 (Miller, Manning, and Reagor). Kent is underrated and the staff really likes him. They'll need Northwestern to continue losing to MAC schools and get him on campus.
As for tight end recruiting, don't be shocked if they skip the position in 2017. They want one, believe me. But they don't want to settle for JAG either. If they miss on Tennison and Kent, they'll explore JUCO. Otherwise, they'll roll with Andrew Beck and Peyton Aucoin. Plus remember, Andrew Fitzgerald might slide over to that side as well.
The target number as of today is 22. Now how Strong gets to that number is beyond me. But a source close to the staff says this is the big board and they feel like they can get anyone they truly want at this point in the year. Now granted, they have to keep winning. 9-10 wins nets a Top 5 class, IMO.
Another factor suddenly helping Texas is the Big 12 looking less than stellar.
OU might be overrated. TCU too. Okie Lite is what we thought they were. Baylor is toxic. Texas Tech is...well.. Texas Tech. The illegitimate step children in College Station have filled up on bread. And the out-of-state powers (Alabama, Ohio State, and LSU) are really the only competition at this point, and LSU has its own issues.
No wonder the staff feels so good. No wonder they're all smiling during mandatory press conferences. No wonder they're going after the big fish.
They know they've flipped Texas.
Inside Texas Writer
RECRUITING
"Charlie Strong has lost the Texas locker room." - Paul Finebaum, syndicated radio host for ESPN in 2015
"Nobody is going to Texas." - Allen QB Kyler Murray, in 2014, before signing with A&M, then transferring to OU
The Texas Football staff had plenty to be confident about after landing back-to-back Top 10 classes following an 11-14 start to Charlie Strong's tenure in Austin. If they could convince some of the nation's best to play on the 40 Acres after a subpar 2015, imagine what they could do when they started winning.
So, they started winning.
Strong was close to flipping the state back to UT's direction before the Notre Dame game. After hosting the elite of the elite during their 50-47 double-overtime win over the Fighting Irish on September 4th at DKR, Strong and his staff couldn't have written a better script.
If you thought they were positive before, now they're walking with a swagger across the state, high school to high school.
I talked to someone close to the staff this week and he revealed what they're looking for in 2017. If you thought 2015 and 2016's classes was incredible, wait until you see who they want, and expect to land in 2017.
The number I'm hearing is 22. At this moment, the staff feels they can grab 22 prospects from the next class. Now, 'numbers' are always a subject at Inside Texas. Despite us telling you last June that not only would there be room for the Baylor 5, they would also snag a Lou Groza Watch List kicker in the process. "But the numbers..." should never be uttered again. Strong has found a way to always stay on top of his roster. It's one of his endearing traits. Knowing who might not qualify, knowing who might transfer, and knowing it's 18-22 year old college football kids who can make mistakes. Attrition happens.
Let's take a quick look at who I'm told they feel supremely confident about and the wild cards.
IN (8):
Sam Ehlinger (QB), Damion Miller (WR), Lagaryonn Carson (DL), Josh Thompson (CB), Xavier Newman (OL), Kobe Boyce (CB), Montrell Estell (S), Taquon Graham (SDE).
Sam is the leader. Damion is the consummate deep threat. Carson qualifying could be an issue and they've got a backup plan, but at the moment they think he'll make it. Thompson went from silver to solid gold. Xavier flirted with OU then returned to his first love. Kobe is also good to go. Estell is already scoping out lakes around Austin to fish. Graham gets to play close to mom.
COMING SOON (8):
Baron Browning (LB), Levi Jones (LB), JK Dobbins (RB), Omar Manning (WR), Jalen Reagor (WR), Walker Little (OL), Marvin Wilson (DT), K'Lavon Chaisson (DE/OLB).
Baron Von Browning is as close to a pledge as it gets. Jones is starting to think playing close to home isn't so bad. The staff's relationship with Omar's coaches and aunt is building by the day. The backstory on Reagor is fascinating and will be told in due time. Little has always felt Longhornish. Wilson just needed a reason and persuasion from his family. With Chaisson, Strong's patience looks to pay off.
That's 16 and leaves six spots for wild cards. With the way Strong works in January, those could turn into aces. Plus, Strong has eyes on a few other OOS prospects. How much effort he puts into pursuing them remains to be seen.
WILD CARDS (14):
Anthony Hines (LB), Jeff Okudah (DB), Chuck Filiaga (OL), Kary Vincent (CB), Chevin Calloway (CB), Robert Barnes (S), Saaid Adebo (DB), Ondario Robinson (DE), Alec Jackson (DL), Major Tennison (TE), Ryan Johnson (DL), Alex Leatherwood (OL), Mannie Netherly (WR), Trevor Kent (TE).
Hines will go to the school who dotes on him the longest. Texas wants him, but they won't sacrifice dignity to get him. Okudah has a Deontay Anderson feel to it. He'll flirt with Texas the more they win, but may end up skydiving out of state. The staff really likes Filiaga and they think he feels the same way. Vincent has always stayed close to the staff despite pledging LSU. Calloway may have committed to Iowa, but I doubt he signs with Iowa. Barnes is more open then he lets on, but they feel he's still OU bound. Adebo is solid to Notre Dame...today. Robinson is the backup plan to Carson, but I get the sense they'd rather take someone else. Jackson is interested and I think he leaves the state. Tennison could re-commit right now, but the longer he waits, the less likely that offer stays. Johnson is interested too, but needs to OV to make it real interesting. Same for Leatherwood, who's mom lives in Austin. Netherly could've committed this summer and almost did, until they signed Devin Duvernay. They might circle back if they don't land the Big 3 (Miller, Manning, and Reagor). Kent is underrated and the staff really likes him. They'll need Northwestern to continue losing to MAC schools and get him on campus.
As for tight end recruiting, don't be shocked if they skip the position in 2017. They want one, believe me. But they don't want to settle for JAG either. If they miss on Tennison and Kent, they'll explore JUCO. Otherwise, they'll roll with Andrew Beck and Peyton Aucoin. Plus remember, Andrew Fitzgerald might slide over to that side as well.
The target number as of today is 22. Now how Strong gets to that number is beyond me. But a source close to the staff says this is the big board and they feel like they can get anyone they truly want at this point in the year. Now granted, they have to keep winning. 9-10 wins nets a Top 5 class, IMO.
Another factor suddenly helping Texas is the Big 12 looking less than stellar.
OU might be overrated. TCU too. Okie Lite is what we thought they were. Baylor is toxic. Texas Tech is...well.. Texas Tech. The illegitimate step children in College Station have filled up on bread. And the out-of-state powers (Alabama, Ohio State, and LSU) are really the only competition at this point, and LSU has its own issues.
No wonder the staff feels so good. No wonder they're all smiling during mandatory press conferences. No wonder they're going after the big fish.
They know they've flipped Texas.
Scholz, Your recruiting info is like icing on a cake,Thank you,and keep it rolling and Hook EM!!
