Things can change a bit on the trail over the course of a week. So, here's another update to the Florida recruiting board heading into the Arkansas game this weekend
Keep in mind, this is my take on where things stand for Florida at the moment, and my take only. I do not claim to be speaking for the people inside the football offices at UF with this post.
Quarterback: Will Grier is committed and on track to enroll at UF in January. As noted in the last recruiting board update, we'll keep an eye on names like Tampa Wharton signal caller Chase Litton (6-5, 195) on the off-chance Florida elects to take a second quarterback closer to National Signing Day. That said, one quarterback seems most likely for UF in 2014.
Running Back: There's not much need to take a second back in this class, especially with a guy as talented as Dalvin Cook. The Gators will likely get a visit at some point from Bo Scarbrough (6-1, 225, Tuscaloosa, Ala./IMG Academy [Fla.]) and we'll see if Joe Mixon (6-1, 210, Oakley, Calif./Freedom) elects to make an official visit to Gainesville that was originally scheduled for the Tennessee weekend. But for now, one running back would appear to be the most likely scenario for UF.
Wide Receiver: Five-star Ermon Lane says Florida, but the Gators will have to work to keep him in the fold all the way to February. Joker Phillips needs to add one other top in-state prospect with Travis Rudolph (6-1, 190, West Palm Beach Cardinal Newman), Ja'Von Harrison (6-1, 185, Lakeland Kathleen) and Clemson verbal Artavis Scott (5-11, 180, Tarpon Springs East Lake) being the preferred options. Out-of-state targets include Speedy Noil (5-11, 176, New Orleans, La./Edna Karr), who will make an official visit to UF this weekend, and Josh Malone (6-2, 191, Gallatin, Tenn./Station Camp), who is expected to make a trip to Florida at some point this fall. The latest offer from Florida at the wide receiver position went out earlier this week to Tennessee commitment Eric Lauderdale (6-2, 200, Fayetteville, Ga.) who is currently competing for Saddleback College in Mission Viejo, Calif. The target number appears to be three receivers for the 2014 cycle. Keep an eye on: Anthony Rhynes (6-0, 200, Tampa Middleton).
Tight End: With a prolific season under his belt at the high school level, C'yontai Lewis will presumably add another dimension to the passing game at the tight end position for UF. But with Florida's shortcomings at the position, another tight end is wanted in the Class of 2014. Deandre Goolsby (6-4, 230, Derby, Kan./Derby) made an official visit for the Tennessee game and Florida is in the mix for his signature. Bryce Dixon (6-4, 230, Ventura, Calif./St. Bonaventure) is the other major target for UF and he is scheduled to visit Gainesville this weekend for the Arkansas game. Keep an eye on: Jordan Franks (6-4, 210, Crawfordville Wakulla).
Offensive Line: With David Sharpe (6-6, 290, Jacksonville Providence) trending away from Florida, other targets are moving up in importance. UF is trying to make a move with Damien Mama (6-4, 370, Bellflower, Calif./St. Bosco Prep) and Jordan Sims (6-4, 335, Birmingham, Ala./Homewood), but have yet to nail down a visit date for either. Damian Prince (6-5, 290, Forestville, Md./Bishop McNamara) is reported to be targeting the FSU game for an official visit trip to Gainesville. Other names will surely re-emerge on the radar that were pursued by Florida earlier in the process, including Alabama verbal Montel McBride (6-4, 350, Plant City), Purdue commitment Denzel Ward (6-8, 305, Chicago, Ill./Simeon) and Indiana pledge Delroy Baker (6-6, 270, St. Petersburg Admiral Farragut). If the Gators elect to go the JUCO route, Jordan Prestwood (6-6, 317, Plant City/Arizona Western C.C.) and Avery Gennesy (6-5, 305, Southaven, Miss./East Mississippi C.C.) are a pair of names to watch. Also keep an eye on Marcus Applefield (6-6, 280, Weeki Wachee).
Defensive End: Two prospects – Lorenzo Carter (6-5, 235, Norcross, Ga./Norcross) and Da'Shawn Hand (6-4, 260, Woodbridge, Va./Woodbridge) – lead a host of names at the end position. The Gators will get an official visit from Lorenzo Featherston (6-7, 220, Greensboro, N.C./Page) this weekend as well. Other targets include Cory Thomas (6-6, 270, McCalla, Ala./McAdory), Malik McDowell (6-7, 290, Southfield, Mich./Southfield) and Dewayne Hendrix (6-4, 260, O'Fallon, Ill./O'Fallon) for whom the Gators still have some level of involvement at the end position. In any case, figure Florida takes at least one more here to go along with Taven Bryan and Justus Reed. Keep an eye on: Wisconsin commit Rohan Blackwood (6-5, 220, Brooksville Nature Coast)
Defensive Tackle: The numbers suggest Florida will need another tackle to pair with Khairi Clark in this cycle. Thomas Holley (6-4, 300, Brooklyn, N.Y./Lincoln) and former UF pledge Anthony Moten (6-4, 290, Ft. Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas) remain on the board, along with Gerald Willis (6-3, 275, New Orleans, La./Edna Karr). The odds appear long that Florida will sign any of the three at this time. Another name on the radar for Florida is Jeremy Patterson (6-3, 310, Jesup, Ga./Wayne County). It would not be altogether unsurprising for the Gators to look to the junior college route to fill a spot in this class along the defensive line as well. Keep an eye on: Freddie Booth-Lloyd (6-1, 305, Cocoa).
Linebacker: There are two major targets: Clifton Garrett (6-2, 228) and Raekwon McMillan (6-2, 240, Hinesville, Ga./Liberty County). Neither are likely to end up at Florida as it stands. The major question now is, will Florida move on to someone else once Garrett and McMillan make it clear they are heading elsewhere? Nyles Morgan (6-2, 230, Crete, Ill./Crete-Monee) and Dwight Williams (6-1, 205, Gardena, Calif./Junipero Serra) would seemingly be the next names on the board for UF, but the Gators have yet to make much of a push for either player. Keep an eye on: Jakob Johnson (6-4, 240, Jacksonville Ribault), Xavier Preston (6-2, 220, Jensen Beach) and Sharriff Rhaheed (6-3, 205, Ft. Pierce Central).
Defensive Back: Something to keep in mind: a few of the receiver prospects Florida is still recruiting could just as soon get a look on defense if they were to come to UF. However, aside from Jamal Adams (6-0, 205, Carrollton, Tex./Hebron) – about as close as you will find to a Florida lock right now – there really aren't any other major targets on the radar for UF in the back end of the defense. Adoree' Jackson could play on either side of the ball in college. The Gators will continue recruiting Jalen Tabor (6-1, 185, Washington, D.C./Friendship Academy), but Maryland is his likely destination at this time. Keep an eye on: Kendall Sawyer (6-0, 179, Lehigh Acres East Lee County).
Showing posts with label Grier. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Grier. Show all posts
Wednesday, October 2, 2013
Wednesday, September 25, 2013
Breaking down the UF recruiting board
With the Tennessee game now in the books – one of what figures to be two major recruiting weekends for the Gators this fall (Florida State being the other, although Arkansas could see some big names roll in as well) – here's a look at where the recruiting board stands for the Florida Gators with about 130 days remaining until National Signing Day.
Keep in mind, this is my take on where things stand for Florida at the moment, and my take only. I do not claim to be speaking for the people inside the football offices at UF with this post.
Quarterback: Will Grier is committed an on track to enroll at UF in January. The Gators may look at taking a second quarterback in this class. Tampa Wharton signal caller Chase Litton (6-5, 195) continues to show up on campus, and was in attendance for the Tennessee game last weekend. If Florida elects to take another signal-caller in 2014, he seems as likely as any. However, as of right now, I predict the Gators will take Grier and call it a day. But this could be a position to watch down the line depending on potential attrition. Especially in January.
Running Back: With Dalvin Cook in the fold, a second back seems unlikely. However, Bo Scarbrough (6-1, 225, Tuscaloosa, Ala./IMG Academy [Fla.]) and Joe Mixon (6-1, 210, Oakley, Calif./Freedom) continue to sit out there as possibilities. A scheduled official visit to Florida for Mixon last weekend was nixed, and does bring up the question of whether or not he'll actually make it in to Gainesville at some point. Again, like the quarterback position, I see UF hanging tight with one signee for the 2014 class, but it is something that bears watching over the coming months.
Wide Receiver: Although Ermon Lane is committed, Florida will have to work to keep him in the fold all the way through National Signing Day. There continue to be mixed signals on Travis Rudolph (6-1, 190, West Palm Beach Cardinal Newman). Florida appears to be sitting pretty there, but his has been a volatile recruitment to date. Alabama, Ohio State and especially Florida State loom as legitimate threats to the Gators for his signature. The Gators also continue to make overtures to a pair of prospects committed elsewhere in Virginia Tech pledge Ja'Von Harrison (6-1, 185, Lakeland Kathleen) and Clemson verbal Artavis Scott (5-11, 180, Tarpon Springs East Lake). The Gators appear to be making the most headway with Harrison, who visited Gainesville for the Tennessee game last weekend. Both Speedy Noil (5-11, 176, New Orleans, La./Edna Karr) and Josh Malone (6-2, 191, Gallatin, Tenn./Station Camp) have expressed a desire to make official visits to Gainesville during the fall. The Gators have significant ground to make up on each player, however. And while he was originally pegged as a defensive prospect, the general consensus on Adoree' Jackson (5-10, 182, Gardena, Calif./Junipero Serra) seems to be trending towards the fact he will likely end up on offense in college, instead. I do not expect Florida to sign less than two receivers in this class. Three would seem to be the preferred number, but don't expect UF to reach too far off this list if they can land a pair of the above listed five.
Tight End: It is hoped that C'yontai Lewis will add another dimension to the passing game at the tight end position. But with Florida's shortcomings at the position, another addition seems likely as well. Deandre Goolsby (6-4, 230, Derby, Kan./Derby) made an official visit over the weekend and Florida appears to be in a good position for his signature with three official visits left to make (Goolsby has already been to Oklahoma as well). However, Florida doesn't appear to be resting with just Goolsby on the board. Garrett Dickerson (6-4, 230, Oradell, N.J./Bergen Catholic) and Bryce Dixon (6-4, 230, Ventura, Calif./St. Bonaventure) have offers from UF as well. Both are major longshots for UF at this time, but remain on the board. I would expect some other names to pop up on the radar as well.
Offensive Line: Really kind of surprising how few names are on the board with at least one offensive line slot remaining up front (if not more). David Sharpe (6-6, 290, Jacksonville Providence) was the primary target remaining, but Florida is clearly moving in the wrong direction for him. The names Damien Mama (6-4, 370, Bellflower, Calif./St. Bosco Prep) and Jordan Sims (6-4, 335, Birmingham, Ala./Homewood) have kept popping up as a possibility, but both prospects look like longshots for Florida at the moment. Expect some names to re-emerge on the radar that were pursued by Florida earlier in the process, including Alabama verbal Montel McBride (6-4, 350, Plant City), Purdue commitment Denzel Ward (6-8, 305, Chicago, Ill./Simeon) and Indiana pledge Delroy Baker (6-6, 270, St. Petersburg Admiral Farragut). If the Gators elect to go the JUCO route, Jordan Prestwood (6-6, 317, Plant City/Arizona Western C.C.) and Avery Gennesy (6-5, 305, Southaven, Miss./East Mississippi C.C.) are a pair of names to watch.
Defensive End: Lorenzo Carter (6-5, 235, Norcross, Ga./Norcross) and Da'Shawn Hand (6-4, 260, Woodbridge, Va./Woodbridge) lead a host of names at the defensive end position. The Gators also appear to be trending up for Cory Thomas (6-6, 270, McCalla, Ala./McAdory) – who, with his frame, could also end up on the offensive line. Lorenzo Featherston (6-7, 220, Greensboro, N.C./Page), Malik McDowell (6-7, 290, Southfield, Mich./Southfield) and Dewayne Hendrix (6-4, 260, O'Fallon, Ill./O'Fallon) are the other names for whom the Gators still have some level of involvement at the end position. In any case, figure Florida takes at least one more here.
Defensive Tackle: The Gators need at least one more tackle to pair with Khairi Clark in this cycle. Thomas Holley (6-4, 300, Brooklyn, N.Y./Lincoln) and former UF pledge Anthony Moten (6-4, 290, Ft. Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas) remain on the board, along with Gerald Willis (6-3, 275, New Orleans, La./Edna Karr). A name to keep an eye on for Florida is Jeremy Patterson (6-3, 310, Jesup, Ga./Wayne County). I also would not be surprised to see Florida make a move to bring 2013 signee Jarran Reed (6-4, 305, Goldsboro, N.C./East Mississippi C.C.) back into the fold once again.
Linebacker: Your guess is as good as mine. Clifton Garrett (6-2, 228) and Raekwon McMillan (6-2, 240, Hinesville, Ga./Liberty County) remain the top two targets on the board. But Florida clearly trails LSU for Garrett, as well as Clemson/Ohio State and Alabama for McMillan. There's also Nyles Morgan (6-2, 230, Crete, Ill./Crete-Monee) and Dwight Williams (6-1, 205, Gardena, Calif./Junipero Serra). But the Gators have yet to make much of a push for either player. Jakob Johnson (6-4, 240, Jacksonville Ribault) is a player who has emerged in-state, and he's a name we'll be keeping an eye on over the coming weeks. As are Josh Black (6-2, 225, Tampa Sickles), Xavier Preston (6-2, 220, Jensen Beach) and Sharriff Rhaheed (6-3, 205, Ft. Pierce Central).
Defensive Back: As long as Loucheiz Purifoy and Marcus Roberson fail to make much noise this fall, the need for secondary prospects continues to lessen. Keep in mind nearly all the receiver prospects Florida is still recruiting could just as soon get a look on defense if they were to come to UF. However, aside from Jamal Adams (6-0, 205, Carrollton, Tex./Hebron) – about as close as you will find to a Florida lock right now – there really aren't any other major targets on the radar for UF in the back end of the defense. I do expect the Gators to continue recruiting Jalen Tabor (6-1, 185, Washington, D.C./Friendship Academy), but at this point he looks all but headed to Maryland to play his football at the next level.
I've long held that I expected Florida to sign a full allotment of about 25 players in this class, as UF currently has room to sign 16 in the 2014 cycle, and attrition of nine players to the NFL Draft, injury and transfer doesn't seem totally out of the question. This could still prove to be the case. But as time goes on, and I watch the board shrink for Will Muschamp and his staff, I'm beginning to change my tune. Now I'm projecting 23 as the target number for Florida in this class.
Tight end is still a major need, and I expect the Gators to grab a second prospect there, in addition to C'yontai Lewis. There is still a need for skill prospects, and I would expect Florida to grab three more of those types for 2014. Again, with so much versatility in the prospects remaining on the board, I think the Gators will simply look to sign the three best they can get and let the positions sort themselves out later.
Florida currently has a total of six linemen in the fold, and I expect that number to get to 10 when all is said and done. As much importance as Will Muschamp places on the line-of-scrimmage, more than 10 would not surprise me. However, that is my projection for now, and figures to be a baseline projection for the number of linemen UF will aim for in most recruiting classes.
The numbers don't look bad for UF at linebacker. There is a loss of one scholarship player after this year as Darrin Kitchens exhausts his eligibility. I do ultimately expect Florida to grab a true linebacker in this class, and that is where the ninth signee would come from in my projection.
This, of course, assumes that Florida will hold on to their other 14 commitments in this class to date. That seems like a rather unlikely scenario. But in lieu of the fact there is no really strong evidence to support any of the current pledges are wavering, we'll just go for now on the notion that UF will keep the guys they have for now, moving forward.
Keep in mind, this is my take on where things stand for Florida at the moment, and my take only. I do not claim to be speaking for the people inside the football offices at UF with this post.
Quarterback: Will Grier is committed an on track to enroll at UF in January. The Gators may look at taking a second quarterback in this class. Tampa Wharton signal caller Chase Litton (6-5, 195) continues to show up on campus, and was in attendance for the Tennessee game last weekend. If Florida elects to take another signal-caller in 2014, he seems as likely as any. However, as of right now, I predict the Gators will take Grier and call it a day. But this could be a position to watch down the line depending on potential attrition. Especially in January.
Running Back: With Dalvin Cook in the fold, a second back seems unlikely. However, Bo Scarbrough (6-1, 225, Tuscaloosa, Ala./IMG Academy [Fla.]) and Joe Mixon (6-1, 210, Oakley, Calif./Freedom) continue to sit out there as possibilities. A scheduled official visit to Florida for Mixon last weekend was nixed, and does bring up the question of whether or not he'll actually make it in to Gainesville at some point. Again, like the quarterback position, I see UF hanging tight with one signee for the 2014 class, but it is something that bears watching over the coming months.
Wide Receiver: Although Ermon Lane is committed, Florida will have to work to keep him in the fold all the way through National Signing Day. There continue to be mixed signals on Travis Rudolph (6-1, 190, West Palm Beach Cardinal Newman). Florida appears to be sitting pretty there, but his has been a volatile recruitment to date. Alabama, Ohio State and especially Florida State loom as legitimate threats to the Gators for his signature. The Gators also continue to make overtures to a pair of prospects committed elsewhere in Virginia Tech pledge Ja'Von Harrison (6-1, 185, Lakeland Kathleen) and Clemson verbal Artavis Scott (5-11, 180, Tarpon Springs East Lake). The Gators appear to be making the most headway with Harrison, who visited Gainesville for the Tennessee game last weekend. Both Speedy Noil (5-11, 176, New Orleans, La./Edna Karr) and Josh Malone (6-2, 191, Gallatin, Tenn./Station Camp) have expressed a desire to make official visits to Gainesville during the fall. The Gators have significant ground to make up on each player, however. And while he was originally pegged as a defensive prospect, the general consensus on Adoree' Jackson (5-10, 182, Gardena, Calif./Junipero Serra) seems to be trending towards the fact he will likely end up on offense in college, instead. I do not expect Florida to sign less than two receivers in this class. Three would seem to be the preferred number, but don't expect UF to reach too far off this list if they can land a pair of the above listed five.
Tight End: It is hoped that C'yontai Lewis will add another dimension to the passing game at the tight end position. But with Florida's shortcomings at the position, another addition seems likely as well. Deandre Goolsby (6-4, 230, Derby, Kan./Derby) made an official visit over the weekend and Florida appears to be in a good position for his signature with three official visits left to make (Goolsby has already been to Oklahoma as well). However, Florida doesn't appear to be resting with just Goolsby on the board. Garrett Dickerson (6-4, 230, Oradell, N.J./Bergen Catholic) and Bryce Dixon (6-4, 230, Ventura, Calif./St. Bonaventure) have offers from UF as well. Both are major longshots for UF at this time, but remain on the board. I would expect some other names to pop up on the radar as well.
Offensive Line: Really kind of surprising how few names are on the board with at least one offensive line slot remaining up front (if not more). David Sharpe (6-6, 290, Jacksonville Providence) was the primary target remaining, but Florida is clearly moving in the wrong direction for him. The names Damien Mama (6-4, 370, Bellflower, Calif./St. Bosco Prep) and Jordan Sims (6-4, 335, Birmingham, Ala./Homewood) have kept popping up as a possibility, but both prospects look like longshots for Florida at the moment. Expect some names to re-emerge on the radar that were pursued by Florida earlier in the process, including Alabama verbal Montel McBride (6-4, 350, Plant City), Purdue commitment Denzel Ward (6-8, 305, Chicago, Ill./Simeon) and Indiana pledge Delroy Baker (6-6, 270, St. Petersburg Admiral Farragut). If the Gators elect to go the JUCO route, Jordan Prestwood (6-6, 317, Plant City/Arizona Western C.C.) and Avery Gennesy (6-5, 305, Southaven, Miss./East Mississippi C.C.) are a pair of names to watch.
Defensive End: Lorenzo Carter (6-5, 235, Norcross, Ga./Norcross) and Da'Shawn Hand (6-4, 260, Woodbridge, Va./Woodbridge) lead a host of names at the defensive end position. The Gators also appear to be trending up for Cory Thomas (6-6, 270, McCalla, Ala./McAdory) – who, with his frame, could also end up on the offensive line. Lorenzo Featherston (6-7, 220, Greensboro, N.C./Page), Malik McDowell (6-7, 290, Southfield, Mich./Southfield) and Dewayne Hendrix (6-4, 260, O'Fallon, Ill./O'Fallon) are the other names for whom the Gators still have some level of involvement at the end position. In any case, figure Florida takes at least one more here.
Defensive Tackle: The Gators need at least one more tackle to pair with Khairi Clark in this cycle. Thomas Holley (6-4, 300, Brooklyn, N.Y./Lincoln) and former UF pledge Anthony Moten (6-4, 290, Ft. Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas) remain on the board, along with Gerald Willis (6-3, 275, New Orleans, La./Edna Karr). A name to keep an eye on for Florida is Jeremy Patterson (6-3, 310, Jesup, Ga./Wayne County). I also would not be surprised to see Florida make a move to bring 2013 signee Jarran Reed (6-4, 305, Goldsboro, N.C./East Mississippi C.C.) back into the fold once again.
Linebacker: Your guess is as good as mine. Clifton Garrett (6-2, 228) and Raekwon McMillan (6-2, 240, Hinesville, Ga./Liberty County) remain the top two targets on the board. But Florida clearly trails LSU for Garrett, as well as Clemson/Ohio State and Alabama for McMillan. There's also Nyles Morgan (6-2, 230, Crete, Ill./Crete-Monee) and Dwight Williams (6-1, 205, Gardena, Calif./Junipero Serra). But the Gators have yet to make much of a push for either player. Jakob Johnson (6-4, 240, Jacksonville Ribault) is a player who has emerged in-state, and he's a name we'll be keeping an eye on over the coming weeks. As are Josh Black (6-2, 225, Tampa Sickles), Xavier Preston (6-2, 220, Jensen Beach) and Sharriff Rhaheed (6-3, 205, Ft. Pierce Central).
Defensive Back: As long as Loucheiz Purifoy and Marcus Roberson fail to make much noise this fall, the need for secondary prospects continues to lessen. Keep in mind nearly all the receiver prospects Florida is still recruiting could just as soon get a look on defense if they were to come to UF. However, aside from Jamal Adams (6-0, 205, Carrollton, Tex./Hebron) – about as close as you will find to a Florida lock right now – there really aren't any other major targets on the radar for UF in the back end of the defense. I do expect the Gators to continue recruiting Jalen Tabor (6-1, 185, Washington, D.C./Friendship Academy), but at this point he looks all but headed to Maryland to play his football at the next level.
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I've long held that I expected Florida to sign a full allotment of about 25 players in this class, as UF currently has room to sign 16 in the 2014 cycle, and attrition of nine players to the NFL Draft, injury and transfer doesn't seem totally out of the question. This could still prove to be the case. But as time goes on, and I watch the board shrink for Will Muschamp and his staff, I'm beginning to change my tune. Now I'm projecting 23 as the target number for Florida in this class.
Tight end is still a major need, and I expect the Gators to grab a second prospect there, in addition to C'yontai Lewis. There is still a need for skill prospects, and I would expect Florida to grab three more of those types for 2014. Again, with so much versatility in the prospects remaining on the board, I think the Gators will simply look to sign the three best they can get and let the positions sort themselves out later.
Florida currently has a total of six linemen in the fold, and I expect that number to get to 10 when all is said and done. As much importance as Will Muschamp places on the line-of-scrimmage, more than 10 would not surprise me. However, that is my projection for now, and figures to be a baseline projection for the number of linemen UF will aim for in most recruiting classes.
The numbers don't look bad for UF at linebacker. There is a loss of one scholarship player after this year as Darrin Kitchens exhausts his eligibility. I do ultimately expect Florida to grab a true linebacker in this class, and that is where the ninth signee would come from in my projection.
This, of course, assumes that Florida will hold on to their other 14 commitments in this class to date. That seems like a rather unlikely scenario. But in lieu of the fact there is no really strong evidence to support any of the current pledges are wavering, we'll just go for now on the notion that UF will keep the guys they have for now, moving forward.
Monday, September 23, 2013
Will Grier's Madden-like numbers
It was just another ho-hum game for Florida QB commit Will Grier (Davidson, N.C.) over the weekend. The 6-foot-3, 180-pound quarterback completed 18-of-22 passes for 370 yards with six touchdowns against one interception in a 45-0 win for Davidson Day over the Community School of Davidson on Friday night. It was the Patriots' lowest scoring output on the season to date through five games.
Grier and Davidson Day appear to be coming up on the real meat of their schedule, with arguably the three toughest games on their schedule on tap within the next four games, beginning with a trip to Marvin Ridge of Waxhaw, N.C. (the general area in which former President Andrew Jackson was birthed, just in case you didn't know) on Friday.
With the regular season now half-over for Grier, it's interesting to note what he's done so far this season. It really is like something out of a video game. In some respects, he's taken a step back on the passing side of things from his junior year, although it was going to be nearly impossible to top the numbers he put up in 2012. He's completing 71.1% of his passes this fall (down from 78.3% a year ago). Although, it should be noted that his completion percentage is improving as the season moves along, and he's connected on 48-of-62 passes in his last two games (77.4%).
Grier has also tossed six interceptions in 149 passing attempts this season. That number doesn't sound too bad, until you consider he threw six picks in 414 attempts for the entire season a year ago. Grier's interception rate in 2013 (4.0%) is up considerably from both his sophomore (2.5%) and junior (1.4%) campaigns.
However, Grier has also been tossing touchdowns at a ridiculous rate. He's thrown for 31 scores through five games, and is currently on pace to wind up with as many as 79 on the season (assuming Davidson Day plays a full total of 13 games, as they likely will). That would even usurp his incredible run in 2012, when he connected on 61 touchdown strikes, but would still fall short of the national single-season record of 91, held by Corey Robinson of Lone Oak (Ky.) from 2007.
Of course, this goes back to the issue of Grier's numbers not being recognized in the national record books. Grier's Davidson Day squad is under the governing body of the NCISAA (North Carolina Independent Schools Athletic Association), as opposed to the standard NCHSAA (North Carolina High School Athletic Association, the equivalent of Florida's FHSAA). Since the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) only recognizes the official records of the NCHSAA, and the NCHSAA doesn't officially recognize Grier's numbers, as his school isn't a part of the NCHSAA, Grier's name will never grace the "official" high school record books.
I hope you got all of that. But Grier's place in the national pantheon of great prep signal-callers should be unquestioned at this point, even if his numbers aren't officially recognized.
He's currently on pace to pass Chris Leak's state record of 185 touchdown passes (accomplished at Charlotte Independence High School between 1999-02, good for second all-time nationally). However, the national record of 219 (credited to current Missouri backup Maty Mauk, who attended Kenton High School in Ohio from 2008-11) will be tough for Grier to match (he would need 70 touchdown passes in a maximum of eight games). Likewise, Chris Leak's state record of 15,593 yards will be tough to top as well (Grier would have to average 525 yards per game the rest of the way to beat that mark). Ultimately, Grier should "unofficially" finish up as one of the top-five most prolific passers in national prep history. Behind the Mauk brothers, Leak and West Virginia native J.R. House, but ahead of such luminaries as Brock Berlin, Garrett Gilbert, Tim Couch and Josh Booty, among others.
It should also be noted that Grier is running the ball even better this year, piling up 519 yards and six scores on just 31 carries. His 16.7 average per carry is nearly double his output from a year ago (8.8).
Barring injury, Will Grier will go down as one of the most prolific quarterbacks in the history of high school football. Even if he doesn't play another down at the prep level, his legend is already quite secure. But considering how many names litter the top of those all-time high school passing lists (the aforementioned Mauk brothers, Leak, Berlin, Gilbert, Couch and Booty, along with Greg Paulus, Drew Tate and Jamarcus Russell), Grier's prep accomplishments do not guarantee even a high degree of success at the college level. How Grier fares at Florida will be determined by a completely different set of circumstances than the ones that have allowed him to reach such heights in Davidson, N.C. over the past two-plus seasons (and counting).
Highlights from UF commit Will Grier's junior season at Davidson Day (Davidson, N.C.)
Grier and Davidson Day appear to be coming up on the real meat of their schedule, with arguably the three toughest games on their schedule on tap within the next four games, beginning with a trip to Marvin Ridge of Waxhaw, N.C. (the general area in which former President Andrew Jackson was birthed, just in case you didn't know) on Friday.
With the regular season now half-over for Grier, it's interesting to note what he's done so far this season. It really is like something out of a video game. In some respects, he's taken a step back on the passing side of things from his junior year, although it was going to be nearly impossible to top the numbers he put up in 2012. He's completing 71.1% of his passes this fall (down from 78.3% a year ago). Although, it should be noted that his completion percentage is improving as the season moves along, and he's connected on 48-of-62 passes in his last two games (77.4%).
Grier has also tossed six interceptions in 149 passing attempts this season. That number doesn't sound too bad, until you consider he threw six picks in 414 attempts for the entire season a year ago. Grier's interception rate in 2013 (4.0%) is up considerably from both his sophomore (2.5%) and junior (1.4%) campaigns.
However, Grier has also been tossing touchdowns at a ridiculous rate. He's thrown for 31 scores through five games, and is currently on pace to wind up with as many as 79 on the season (assuming Davidson Day plays a full total of 13 games, as they likely will). That would even usurp his incredible run in 2012, when he connected on 61 touchdown strikes, but would still fall short of the national single-season record of 91, held by Corey Robinson of Lone Oak (Ky.) from 2007.
Of course, this goes back to the issue of Grier's numbers not being recognized in the national record books. Grier's Davidson Day squad is under the governing body of the NCISAA (North Carolina Independent Schools Athletic Association), as opposed to the standard NCHSAA (North Carolina High School Athletic Association, the equivalent of Florida's FHSAA). Since the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) only recognizes the official records of the NCHSAA, and the NCHSAA doesn't officially recognize Grier's numbers, as his school isn't a part of the NCHSAA, Grier's name will never grace the "official" high school record books.
I hope you got all of that. But Grier's place in the national pantheon of great prep signal-callers should be unquestioned at this point, even if his numbers aren't officially recognized.
He's currently on pace to pass Chris Leak's state record of 185 touchdown passes (accomplished at Charlotte Independence High School between 1999-02, good for second all-time nationally). However, the national record of 219 (credited to current Missouri backup Maty Mauk, who attended Kenton High School in Ohio from 2008-11) will be tough for Grier to match (he would need 70 touchdown passes in a maximum of eight games). Likewise, Chris Leak's state record of 15,593 yards will be tough to top as well (Grier would have to average 525 yards per game the rest of the way to beat that mark). Ultimately, Grier should "unofficially" finish up as one of the top-five most prolific passers in national prep history. Behind the Mauk brothers, Leak and West Virginia native J.R. House, but ahead of such luminaries as Brock Berlin, Garrett Gilbert, Tim Couch and Josh Booty, among others.
It should also be noted that Grier is running the ball even better this year, piling up 519 yards and six scores on just 31 carries. His 16.7 average per carry is nearly double his output from a year ago (8.8).
Barring injury, Will Grier will go down as one of the most prolific quarterbacks in the history of high school football. Even if he doesn't play another down at the prep level, his legend is already quite secure. But considering how many names litter the top of those all-time high school passing lists (the aforementioned Mauk brothers, Leak, Berlin, Gilbert, Couch and Booty, along with Greg Paulus, Drew Tate and Jamarcus Russell), Grier's prep accomplishments do not guarantee even a high degree of success at the college level. How Grier fares at Florida will be determined by a completely different set of circumstances than the ones that have allowed him to reach such heights in Davidson, N.C. over the past two-plus seasons (and counting).
Tuesday, September 3, 2013
A breakdown of Florida's class to date
Today, we'll do a quick look at what Florida has put together so far in the Class of 2014. 15 commitments to date with the season just underway. I prefer to take the long view, and breakdown prospects by four categories: Quarterback, Skill, Line and Specialists. This is the way Steve Spurrier and Ron Zook used to do it when announcing their recruiting classes on National Signing Day. And it makes sense. These guys still have growing and developing to do. While there's nothing wrong with projecting a prospect to a certain position at the next level, the fact is, we still have no idea where their development will take them once they get on a college campus.
Quarterback
Will Grier (6-2½, 181, Davidson, N.C.)
– Although Florida's greatest successes at the quarterback position have historically come with the offspring of preachers, taking a coach's son isn't the worst idea either. Grier is an ultra-productive signal-caller who also brings plus-athleticism to the position. Only concern here is the frame. I don't see him getting much past 210-215 pounds at the college level. But that didn't hinder a guy like Robert Griffin III, so who knows? In any case, Grier appears to be the future at the quarterback position once Jeff Driskel moves on.
Skill
Dalvin Cook (5-11, 196, Miami, Fla.)
Duke Dawson (5-11, 197, Cross City,
Fla.)
J.C. Jackson (5-10, 180, Immokalee,
Fla.)
Chris Lammons (5-9½, 171, Plantation,
Fla.)
Ermon Lane (6-2, 196, Homestead, Fla.)
C'yontai Lewis (6-5, 212, Tuscaloosa,
Ala.)
Quincy Wilson (6-1, 196, Miramar,
Fla.)
– Cook is the perfect blend of size, athleticism and versatility. His recruitment may very well give Florida a few headaches over the next few months. But if UF can hold on to him (and there's no reason to believe they won't at the moment), he's one of the gems of the class. At this point, taking another running back is more of a luxury than a necessity.
– In Jackson and Lammons, the Gators have landed a pair of shifty offensive playmakers who are projected to the defensive side of the ball in college. Personally, I could see either player – or even both players – on offense at the college level. Neither may light up a stopwatch with a 4.4 40, but they both seem to make plays where it counts: between the white lines.
– Another pair of players, Dawson and Wilson, play corner at the high school level. Both are bigger, more physical players at the position. There are questions of whether or not either player can remain at corner in college. In a defensive scheme other than Florida's, I might agree with that notion. For the Gators, I think both guys can play corner, although either may get a look at nickel and/or safety. With Florida losing potentially three 6-foot corners, these two will bring a much-needed infusion of size to the secondary.
– While Ermon Lane and C'yontai Lewis play different positions, they both potentially bring length and an added vertical dimension to the Florida offense. Lane is a key recruit, as the Gators need to build on a strong receiver class in 2013 by continuing to add talent at the position. Florida needs to add a receiving threat at the tight end position, and Lewis could do just that. He's raw and he needs to add quite a bit of weight. But there's no question he brings a different skill-set to the table than Burton, Thompson and Westbrook.
Line
Dontae Angus (6-6, 330, Philadelphia,
Pa.)
Taven Bryan (6-5, 250, Casper, Wyo.)
Khairi Clark (6-1½, 326, Hollywood,
Fla.)
Travaris Dorsey (6-2½, 314,
Jacksonville, Fla.)
Nolan Kelleher (6-5, 300, Mount
Pleasant, S.C.)
Benjamin Knox (6-5, 260, DeLand, Fla.)
Justus Reed (6-2, 220, Clearwater,
Fla.)
– Of this group, Clark and Kelleher are the cornerstones. Clark will need to continue to re-shape his body, but he is a true nose tackle who can potentially play the one-technique, or move head up on the center and be a two-gap zero-technique. Big get. Kelleher is an excellent pulling guard at the prep level. Great feet. He could play inside as a guard, center or perhaps even at right tackle for Florida. Very versatile player.
– Angus, Bryan, Knox make up the "project" element of the line class. Angus is fairly new to organized football, and while his junior film wasn't overly impressive (and it's barely watchable, I might add), he does have the size and an explosive first step that cannot be taught. I don't think it's a given he ends up on offense, but I tend to think he would be a better fit at guard than at defensive tackle against SEC competition. I like Bryan's athleticism and frame. The only question with him is the level of competition he faces in Wyoming. Bryan is arguably the top recruit to come out of the state since Brett Keisel in 1997. Before that, you would have to go back to former Nebraska linebacker Troy Dumas in 1991. So, yes, Wyoming does occasionally produce a Florida-caliber football player. I tend to like Bryan as a potential offensive tackle, but it's not a stretch to think he could stick at defensive end, either. Knox is the shakiest commitment of this class. He has the length and athleticism to develop into a nice tackle at the next level, but there's a lot of work in front of him. You get the sense that he and Florida are drifting further and further apart, but until the Gators can lock in some other talented linemen, there's no reason to cut him loose at this point.
– As for Dorsey and Reed, they represent an unsexy, yet vital portion of the class. Dorsey is a traditional road-grader who should compete for time at either guard or center. Reed is a talented, yet undersized pass-rusher. Think of players like Lerentee McCray and Neiron Ball when making a comparison for Reed. He could see time at the BUCK position. He could also be converted to a SAM linebacker. More importantly, he can get after the quarterback. In any case, Reed should be able to carve out some sort of role in the future for the Florida defense.
Specialists
None
– Barring a complete collapse by Austin Hardin this season, it seems highly unlikely the Gators will pursue a special teams player to bring in on scholarship for the Class of 2014.
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