Hear are some storylines to keep an eye on as the week comes to an end. High school football practices start across the state of Florida starting next Monday (August 9th)...
- I confirmed this afternoon that Under Armour All-American CB Nick Waisome (5-10, 168, Groveland, Fla./South Lake) has pegged August 18th as his decision date. He has engaged in talks these past several days to have his announcement broadcast on ESPNU. In regards to who he will select -- the Gators have been considered the favorite for some time, but I have heard that Florida State made up some major ground during a trip Waisome took to Tallahassee last month. Georgia has also been a major factor in his recruitment, but seemed to fade over the summer (I was told the Bulldogs were out in front at one point during the spring). LSU and South Carolina comprise his other two finalists. Realistically, however, this is a battle between the two in-state rivals from the state of Sunshine for the commitment of Waisome. We will know in just under two weeks who the winner is...
- The Gators had a star-studded group attend their first practices of fall camp on Thursday. Two prospects in particular -- OL/DL Chase Hounshell (6-5, 265, Kirtland, Ohio/Lake Catholic) and RB Savon Huggins (5-11, 200, Jersey City, N.J./St. Peter's Prep) -- made long treks down to Florida to check out what The Swamp has to offer. It appears Hounshell is being targeted as a potential tackle candidate on the offensive line. Meanwhile, Huggins is a highly-regarded running back who could give Florida another every-down type in the backfield to go along with true freshman Mack Brown. A pair of Florida commitments, quarterback Jeff Driskel (6-4, 225, Oviedo, Fla./Hagerty) and fullback Hunter Joyer (5-11, 245, Tampa, Fla./Tampa Catholic) also were in attendance for the first day of fall workouts.
- As I posted on Twitter on Wednesday, defensive back Chris "Juice" Johnson (5-9, 205, Ocala, Fla./Trinity Catholic) is very close to making a commitment to the Gators public. At a media function for Marion County high school football teams, held at the Florida State Fire College on Wednesday, Johnson sported a blue Florida baseball hat and said "you could basically say I'm committed right now," of his current intentions as to what he will do for a college decision. Right now, it seems only a couple of points on the ACT are keeping Juice from going forward with that commitment. Expect it to happen in the near future, however.
- I think you really have to commend the efforts of Notre Dame wide receivers coach Tony Alford, and his imprint on the state of Florida this year. Alford has secured commitments from offensive lineman Jordan Prestwood (6-6, 275, Plant City/Plant City), defensive end/linebacker Clay Burton (6-3, 235, Nokomis/Venice) and defensive lineman Aaron Lynch (6-6, 265, Cape Coral/Island Coast). Burton had interest from around the Southeast, with offers from Clemson, Florida State, Georgia Tech, LSU and Tennessee among others. The younger brother of Florida Gators true freshman quarterback Trey Burton, Clay settled in at defensive end last fall after bouncing between the offense (as a tight end) and defense as a sophomore to record 13 sacks in 2009. Prestwood is a tight end who will likely make the transition to offensive tackle in college. He had offers from Florida and Florida State along with many others before deciding on the Fighting Irish. The real prize of this group is Lynch, who is a massive prospect with tons of upside. He recorded 16 sacks last year at Island Coast, and would be a great fit at defensive end in Notre Dame's 3-4 scheme. He could also potentially grow into an offensive lineman, however. He has the frame to easily put on another 30-40 pounds without any problems, and he could be extremely effective as a left tackle on the next level. In any case, the efforts of Alford to grab this trio out of Florida (along with defensive end Anthony Rabasa, a native of Miami, who was recruited by defensive line coach Mike Elston) have given Notre Dame a strong presence in the Sunshine State this year.
Why does this get mention here, you ask? Because Alford was reportedly the first choice of Florida head coach Urban Meyer to replace departed assistant Kenny Carter, who followed Charlie Strong to Louisville. It seems Meyer had a good read on Alford's talents as a recruiter if those reports were in fact true.
- I keep getting questions on the recruitment of RB/LB James Wilder (6-2, 220, Tampa, Fla./Plant), and to be perfectly honest, I don't know what to think in regards as to what he will do anymore. Florida State clearly made a big push on his recent weekend stay in July, that much is clear. But the Seminoles were a bit late to the party, which makes me wonder if the positive post-visit vibes will wear off a bit as Wilder starts moving towards a decision. I maintain that UGA is a strong presence in this battle as they are they seem to be the best fit for his talents both on offense (Mark Richt has traditionally employed a Pro-Set base for his offenses since arriving in Athens in 2001) and defense (the 3-4 that new defensive coordinator Todd Grantham has installed would allow Wilder to feature his talents as a superb pass-rusher out of the outside linebacker position). Florida has been the longest, most consistent, and most steady presence in the recruitment of Wilder. If it's a matter of which staff have built the best relationship with the talented prospect, I think it would be hard to argue anyone has Urban Meyer and Dan McCarney beat in that aspect.
So now, the question remains -- when does Wilder announce? It could happen this month, possibly at the nationally televised kickoff classic (preseason) game between Plant and Manatee High School of Bradenton (which features top RB prospect Mike Blakely, also a target of the Gators). Or perhaps Wilder will wait until after the season. In any case, his recruitment should continue to provide as much speculation around it as any in the country until that final decision is handed in.
Friday, August 6, 2010
Monday, August 2, 2010
Where the Gators stand: Linebacker
Last week, we started a position-by-position analysis as to where Florida currently stands in regards to the Class of 2011, and what needs still have to be met across the board. After wrapping up the offense, the defense is now on tap as to where Florida currently stands on the recruiting trail. Today, we focus on the linebackers...
Current Florida depth chart:
WILL
40 - Brandon Hicks (6-2, 228, Sr.)
52 - Jon Bostic (6-1, 238, So.)
49 - Darrin Kitchens (6-2, 218, Fr.)
MIKE
43 - Jelani Jenkins (6-0, 223, R-Fr.)
26 - Lorenzo Edwards (6-1, 240, Sr.)
51 - Michael Taylor (5-11, 218, Fr.)
23 - Chris Martin (6-4, 240, Fr.)**
SAM
16 - A.J. Jones (6-1, 226, R-Sr.)
13 - Dee Finley (6-2, 222, S0.)
48 - Neiron Ball (6-2, 225, Fr.)
25 - Gideon Ajagbe (6-2, 212, Fr.)
**Martin must redshirt his freshman season after transferring from Cal, where he enrolled in summer courses.
Committed to Florida for 2011:
Ryan Shazier (6-2, 205, Plantation, Fla./Plantation)
Top of the board:
Stephone Anthony (6-3, 224, Wadesboro, N.C./Anson)
Curtis Grant (6-3, 230, Richmond, Va./Hermitage)
Tony Steward (6-1, 225, St. Augustine, Fla./Menendez)
Lamar Dawson (6-2, 235, Danville, Ky./Boyle County)
A.J. Johnson (6-3, 235, Gainesville, Ga./Gainesville)
Others to watch:
Kent Turene (6-2, 230, Lauderdale Lakes, Fla./Boyd Anderson) - Committed to USC
Norkethius Otis (6-3, 205, Gastonia, N.C./Ashbrook)
Dexter Staley (6-2, 225, Williston, S.C./Williston-Elko)
Graham Stewart (6-1, 220, Middletown, Conn./Xavier)
Lateek Townsend (6-2, 205, Bennettsville, S.C./Marlboro County)
Jack Tabb (6-3, 235, Red Bank, N.J./Red Bank Catholic)
Jason Gibson (6-3, 210, Gardena, Calif./Junipero Serra)
Anthony Harrell (6-1, 220, Tampa, Fla./Jesuit)
Gionni Paul (6-0, 220 Lakeland, Fla./Kathleen)
Miles Pace (6-1, 240, Miami, Fla./Central)
Anthony Wallace (6-0, 220, Dallas, Tex./Skyline)
Analysis: The transfer of Brendan Beal in the offseason cut into the depth for Florida at linebacker just a bit. However, this is still an extremely talented and fast (albeit young) group at the position. The biggest issue with this bunch is that there simply isn't a lot of leadership. Who will make the line calls? The two players who could do that over the last two years (Brandon Spikes and Ryan Stamper) are both gone. That will be the biggest thing assistant coach D.J. Durkin looks to work on in fall camp. He knows he has an athletic bunch that can run to the football. However, they need to be able to get the defense set, and they need to be able to read and diagnose opposing offenses, and as the spring game showed, the linebackers have a long way to go to get to that point.
Looking ahead, the Gators would clearly like to add some size to this group. Adding a player (or two) who can project in the middle is a key goal. Curtis Grant tops the list of players who can fill that role in the 2011 class. Lamar Dawson is high on the board as well, in addition to USC commitment Kent Turene and Georgia product A.J. Johnson (who could ultimately project as a defensive end in college as well).
On the outside, Florida has already added a superb athlete in Ryan Shazier, who will have to make the transition from defensive end to linebacker on the next level. Perhaps the top linebacker on the board is Stephone Anthony, who has the athleticism to play on the outside, but the size to be a factor in the middle as well. His versatility is extremely intriguing. Tony Steward is considered one of the top linebacker prospects in the entire country, and he resides just an hour up the road from Gainesville in St. Augustine. Currently, he appears to be leaning more towards Florida State or Clemson, however. Norkethius Otis is a hybrid linebacker/defensive end who has the athleticism to contribute in a number of ways at the next level.
Three names to keep a close eye on down the stretch:
- Graham Stewart visited Gainesville twice this summer, and tested extremely well. He is a native of Connecticut, and the Gators have been quite active in the Nutmeg State over the past few years due to the presence of Steve Addazio (a native of the region) on the staff.
- You could call him the "poor man's James Wilder" of this class. Dexter Staley is a two-way star who could be an impact linebacker or big back on the next level a year for now. He has had some academic issues to push through, but the Gators are still a factor in his recruitment. If Florida does not land James Wilder, Staley could be the guy the Gators look to next to play on either side of the ball at the next level.
- The son of former UF and NFL linebacker James Harrell, look out for Tampa native Anthony Harrell. He has a strong interest in the Gators, and an offer down the road (no matter how late) would likely result in Harrell taking a really long look at spending his college years in Gainesville.
In some circles, the Gators are considered the favorite for both Anthony and Grant, which would be a home-run for linebackers coach D.J. Durkin if he can pull it off. Adding another option, such as Dawson, Turene, Johnson, or one of the many other options on the board would only make this group that much better heading into 2011.
Current Florida depth chart:
WILL
40 - Brandon Hicks (6-2, 228, Sr.)
52 - Jon Bostic (6-1, 238, So.)
49 - Darrin Kitchens (6-2, 218, Fr.)
MIKE
43 - Jelani Jenkins (6-0, 223, R-Fr.)
26 - Lorenzo Edwards (6-1, 240, Sr.)
51 - Michael Taylor (5-11, 218, Fr.)
23 - Chris Martin (6-4, 240, Fr.)**
SAM
16 - A.J. Jones (6-1, 226, R-Sr.)
13 - Dee Finley (6-2, 222, S0.)
48 - Neiron Ball (6-2, 225, Fr.)
25 - Gideon Ajagbe (6-2, 212, Fr.)
**Martin must redshirt his freshman season after transferring from Cal, where he enrolled in summer courses.
Committed to Florida for 2011:
Ryan Shazier (6-2, 205, Plantation, Fla./Plantation)
Top of the board:
Stephone Anthony (6-3, 224, Wadesboro, N.C./Anson)
Curtis Grant (6-3, 230, Richmond, Va./Hermitage)
Tony Steward (6-1, 225, St. Augustine, Fla./Menendez)
Lamar Dawson (6-2, 235, Danville, Ky./Boyle County)
A.J. Johnson (6-3, 235, Gainesville, Ga./Gainesville)
Others to watch:
Kent Turene (6-2, 230, Lauderdale Lakes, Fla./Boyd Anderson) - Committed to USC
Norkethius Otis (6-3, 205, Gastonia, N.C./Ashbrook)
Dexter Staley (6-2, 225, Williston, S.C./Williston-Elko)
Graham Stewart (6-1, 220, Middletown, Conn./Xavier)
Lateek Townsend (6-2, 205, Bennettsville, S.C./Marlboro County)
Jack Tabb (6-3, 235, Red Bank, N.J./Red Bank Catholic)
Jason Gibson (6-3, 210, Gardena, Calif./Junipero Serra)
Anthony Harrell (6-1, 220, Tampa, Fla./Jesuit)
Gionni Paul (6-0, 220 Lakeland, Fla./Kathleen)
Miles Pace (6-1, 240, Miami, Fla./Central)
Anthony Wallace (6-0, 220, Dallas, Tex./Skyline)
Analysis: The transfer of Brendan Beal in the offseason cut into the depth for Florida at linebacker just a bit. However, this is still an extremely talented and fast (albeit young) group at the position. The biggest issue with this bunch is that there simply isn't a lot of leadership. Who will make the line calls? The two players who could do that over the last two years (Brandon Spikes and Ryan Stamper) are both gone. That will be the biggest thing assistant coach D.J. Durkin looks to work on in fall camp. He knows he has an athletic bunch that can run to the football. However, they need to be able to get the defense set, and they need to be able to read and diagnose opposing offenses, and as the spring game showed, the linebackers have a long way to go to get to that point.
Looking ahead, the Gators would clearly like to add some size to this group. Adding a player (or two) who can project in the middle is a key goal. Curtis Grant tops the list of players who can fill that role in the 2011 class. Lamar Dawson is high on the board as well, in addition to USC commitment Kent Turene and Georgia product A.J. Johnson (who could ultimately project as a defensive end in college as well).
On the outside, Florida has already added a superb athlete in Ryan Shazier, who will have to make the transition from defensive end to linebacker on the next level. Perhaps the top linebacker on the board is Stephone Anthony, who has the athleticism to play on the outside, but the size to be a factor in the middle as well. His versatility is extremely intriguing. Tony Steward is considered one of the top linebacker prospects in the entire country, and he resides just an hour up the road from Gainesville in St. Augustine. Currently, he appears to be leaning more towards Florida State or Clemson, however. Norkethius Otis is a hybrid linebacker/defensive end who has the athleticism to contribute in a number of ways at the next level.
Three names to keep a close eye on down the stretch:
- Graham Stewart visited Gainesville twice this summer, and tested extremely well. He is a native of Connecticut, and the Gators have been quite active in the Nutmeg State over the past few years due to the presence of Steve Addazio (a native of the region) on the staff.
- You could call him the "poor man's James Wilder" of this class. Dexter Staley is a two-way star who could be an impact linebacker or big back on the next level a year for now. He has had some academic issues to push through, but the Gators are still a factor in his recruitment. If Florida does not land James Wilder, Staley could be the guy the Gators look to next to play on either side of the ball at the next level.
- The son of former UF and NFL linebacker James Harrell, look out for Tampa native Anthony Harrell. He has a strong interest in the Gators, and an offer down the road (no matter how late) would likely result in Harrell taking a really long look at spending his college years in Gainesville.
In some circles, the Gators are considered the favorite for both Anthony and Grant, which would be a home-run for linebackers coach D.J. Durkin if he can pull it off. Adding another option, such as Dawson, Turene, Johnson, or one of the many other options on the board would only make this group that much better heading into 2011.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Where the Gators stand: Defensive Tackle
Last week, we started a position-by-position analysis as to where Florida currently stands in regards to the Class of 2011, and what needs still have to be met across the board. After wrapping up the offense, the defense is now on tap as to where Florida currently stands on the recruiting trail. Today, we focus on the defensive tackles...
Current Florida Depth Chart:
Defensive Tackle
6 - Jaye Howard (6-3, 302, R-Jr.)
92 - Terron Sanders (6-1, 309, R-Sr.)
58 - Dominique Easley (6-1, 280, Fr.)
68 - Leon Orr (6-4, 315, Fr.)
Nose Tackle
99 - Omar Hunter (6-0, 307, R-So.)
90 - Lawrence Marsh (6-5, 290, R-Sr.)
47 - Brandon Antwine (6-0, 290, R-Sr.)
73 - Sharrif Floyd (6-3, 301, Fr.)
Top of the board:
Timmy Jernigan (6-3, 280, Lake City, Fla./Columbia)
Others to watch:
Todd Barr (6-1, 265, Lakewood, Calif./Lakewood)
Devonte Brown (6-4, 285, Fayetteville, N.C./Jack Britt)
Lonnie Gosha (6-2, 275, Lake Butler, Fla./Union County)
Viliami Moala (6-2, 325, Sacramento, Calif./Grant)
Chavis Akins (6-3, 320, Homestead, Fla./Homestead)
Brandon Clemons (6-3, 265, Milford, Pa./Delaware Valley)
Elkino Watson (6-2, 280, Miami, Fla./Booker T. Washington)
Terry Bell (6-5, 280, Lakeland, Fla./Tenoroc)
Mason Fuller (6-1, 295, Chicago, Ill./Urban Prep)
Analysis: Florida heads into the 2010 season with an with a deep and talented group of defensive tackles -- one of the major reasons that talking about SEC and National Championships with this bunch is not out of the realm of possibilities for this coming fall.
However, looking ahead, this is potentially a major need area for the Gators looking ahead to the 2011 class. It is an upperclassmen-laden group which could suffer some serious losses heading into next fall.
Three fifth-year seniors -- Brandon Antwine, Lawrence Marsh and Terron Sanders -- figure to exhaust their eligibility after this season barring some change in circumstances. Jaye Howard has the potential to play himself into a high-round NFL Draft pick and depart a year early. Leon Orr has been rumored to be targeted for a possible position switch to the offensive line sometime down the line, although he gets first crack at defensive tackle before that happens.
That's why it comes as a bit of a surprise that Timmy Jernigan has really been the only major target at defensive tackle on the board for assistant coach Dan McCarney. Jernigan has been pursued by the Gators since his freshman year of high school. Some people point to the highly-touted group Florida signed last year as a possible deterrent for his signing with the Gators in February. From my vantage point, however, there is a considerable opening for a talented youngster (which Jernigan certainly is) to come in and make an impact as a freshman.
If Dominique Easley, Sharrif Floyd and Omar Hunter end up being the only returnees at defensive tackle next year, there will undoubtedly be some movement to get this unit replenished. Matt Patchan (or someone else) could move over from the offensive line. Earl Okine could slide in from his defensive end slot. Although current commitment Jeoffrey Pagan is projected to play defensive end, he could certainly give the Gators some snaps from the interior of the defensive line as well. Still, it would seemingly make a lot of sense for Florida to sign a second defensive tackle in this class, and there are plenty of options on the board. Lonnie Gosha gives the Gators another local option to consider (both Gosha and Jernigan live within 45 minutes of the Swamp). Todd Barr is one of the top defensive line prospects on the West Coast, and he is expected to visit Florida later this month. Devonte Brown has an offer from Florida as well, and he is a former teammate of Xavier Nixon, who is the projected opening-day starter for the Gators at left tackle heading into fall camp.
One other name to keep an eye on as a sleeper is Elkino Watson out of Booker T. Washington. Playing alongside 2010 Florida signee Lynden Trail for the Tornadoes last fall, Watson managed to rack up over 60 tackles and nine sacks from his defensive tackle slot. Certainly not a bad number at all for an interior lineman.
In any case, look for Florida to continue their strong pursuit of Jernigan, while considering a number of options to potentially bring in alongside him for the Class of 2011. One is the absolute minimum, but taking two at defensive tackle seems entirely realistic as well.
Current Florida Depth Chart:
Defensive Tackle
6 - Jaye Howard (6-3, 302, R-Jr.)
92 - Terron Sanders (6-1, 309, R-Sr.)
58 - Dominique Easley (6-1, 280, Fr.)
68 - Leon Orr (6-4, 315, Fr.)
Nose Tackle
99 - Omar Hunter (6-0, 307, R-So.)
90 - Lawrence Marsh (6-5, 290, R-Sr.)
47 - Brandon Antwine (6-0, 290, R-Sr.)
73 - Sharrif Floyd (6-3, 301, Fr.)
Top of the board:
Timmy Jernigan (6-3, 280, Lake City, Fla./Columbia)
Others to watch:
Todd Barr (6-1, 265, Lakewood, Calif./Lakewood)
Devonte Brown (6-4, 285, Fayetteville, N.C./Jack Britt)
Lonnie Gosha (6-2, 275, Lake Butler, Fla./Union County)
Viliami Moala (6-2, 325, Sacramento, Calif./Grant)
Chavis Akins (6-3, 320, Homestead, Fla./Homestead)
Brandon Clemons (6-3, 265, Milford, Pa./Delaware Valley)
Elkino Watson (6-2, 280, Miami, Fla./Booker T. Washington)
Terry Bell (6-5, 280, Lakeland, Fla./Tenoroc)
Mason Fuller (6-1, 295, Chicago, Ill./Urban Prep)
Analysis: Florida heads into the 2010 season with an with a deep and talented group of defensive tackles -- one of the major reasons that talking about SEC and National Championships with this bunch is not out of the realm of possibilities for this coming fall.
However, looking ahead, this is potentially a major need area for the Gators looking ahead to the 2011 class. It is an upperclassmen-laden group which could suffer some serious losses heading into next fall.
Three fifth-year seniors -- Brandon Antwine, Lawrence Marsh and Terron Sanders -- figure to exhaust their eligibility after this season barring some change in circumstances. Jaye Howard has the potential to play himself into a high-round NFL Draft pick and depart a year early. Leon Orr has been rumored to be targeted for a possible position switch to the offensive line sometime down the line, although he gets first crack at defensive tackle before that happens.
That's why it comes as a bit of a surprise that Timmy Jernigan has really been the only major target at defensive tackle on the board for assistant coach Dan McCarney. Jernigan has been pursued by the Gators since his freshman year of high school. Some people point to the highly-touted group Florida signed last year as a possible deterrent for his signing with the Gators in February. From my vantage point, however, there is a considerable opening for a talented youngster (which Jernigan certainly is) to come in and make an impact as a freshman.
If Dominique Easley, Sharrif Floyd and Omar Hunter end up being the only returnees at defensive tackle next year, there will undoubtedly be some movement to get this unit replenished. Matt Patchan (or someone else) could move over from the offensive line. Earl Okine could slide in from his defensive end slot. Although current commitment Jeoffrey Pagan is projected to play defensive end, he could certainly give the Gators some snaps from the interior of the defensive line as well. Still, it would seemingly make a lot of sense for Florida to sign a second defensive tackle in this class, and there are plenty of options on the board. Lonnie Gosha gives the Gators another local option to consider (both Gosha and Jernigan live within 45 minutes of the Swamp). Todd Barr is one of the top defensive line prospects on the West Coast, and he is expected to visit Florida later this month. Devonte Brown has an offer from Florida as well, and he is a former teammate of Xavier Nixon, who is the projected opening-day starter for the Gators at left tackle heading into fall camp.
One other name to keep an eye on as a sleeper is Elkino Watson out of Booker T. Washington. Playing alongside 2010 Florida signee Lynden Trail for the Tornadoes last fall, Watson managed to rack up over 60 tackles and nine sacks from his defensive tackle slot. Certainly not a bad number at all for an interior lineman.
In any case, look for Florida to continue their strong pursuit of Jernigan, while considering a number of options to potentially bring in alongside him for the Class of 2011. One is the absolute minimum, but taking two at defensive tackle seems entirely realistic as well.
Where the Gators stand: Defensive End
This week, I've embarked on a position-by-position analysis as to where Florida currently stands in regards to the Class of 2011, and what needs still have to be met across the board. After wrapping up the other side of the ball with a look at the offensive line, this is the first look at where Florida stands on the recruiting trail in regards to the defense. Without further ado, my take on the defensive ends...
FOX (Weakside)
44 - Duke Lemmens (6-3, 250, Sr.) OR
7 - Ronald Powell (6-4, 248, Fr.)
34 - Lerentee McCray (6-2, 245, R-So.)
85 - Lynden Trail (6-7, 217, Fr.)
Strongside
94 - Justin Trattou (6-4, 255, Sr.)
96 - William Green (6-3, 252, Jr.)
91 - Earl Okine (6-7, 282, R-So.)
93 - Kedric Johnson (6-4, 230, R-Fr.)
Committed to Florida for 2011:
Jeoffrey Pagan (6-3, 265, Asheville, N.C.)
Top of the board:
Curt Maggitt (6-3, 215, Palm Beach Gardens, Fla./Dwyer)
Ray Drew (6-5, 250, Thomasville, Ga./Thomas County Central)
Other prospects to watch:
Anthony Chickillo (6-3, 230, Tampa, Fla./Alonso)
Xzavier Dickson (6-3, 245, Griffin, Ga./Griffin)
Giovani Francois (6-1, 240, Bradenton, Fla./Manatee)
Giorgio Newberry (6-6, 255, Ft. Pierce, Fla./Central)
Jarquez Samuel (6-5, 240, Valdosta, Ga./Valdosta)
Stephon Tuitt (6-5, 260, Monroe, Ga./Monroe Area)
Ishaq Williams (6-6, 225, Brooklyn, N.Y./Lincoln)
Jordan Williams (6-4, 245, Gainesville, Fla./Gainesville)
Ricardo Williams (6-5, 210, Homestead, Fla./Homestead)
Analysis: This is a fairly deep (although unproven) group for the Gators, and the recent addition of Cal transfer Chris Martin (who could play linebacker or defensive end at Florida) only makes it that much more impressive for a group that will soon be headlined by Consensus Prep All-American Ronald Powell.
Looking to the future, the addition of Jeoffrey Pagan gives Florida a versatile defender who will likely be able to line up both inside and outside depending on the situation. His skillset is very similar to former Florida defensive lineman Ray McDonald (now with the San Francisco 49ers) and current Florida defensive lineman Jaye Howard.
There really isn't a whole lot of need here outside of Pagan. Curt Maggitt, Ray Drew and Anthony Chickillo are the three names to keep a close eye on down the stretch. Maggitt is a premier pass-rusher, and has the athletic ability to potentially get a look at outside linebacker as well. Drew and Chickillo will continue to be recruited by the Gators, but the numbers for Florida, and their interest in other schools (Miami for Chickillo, Auburn and Georgia for Drew) dictate they will most likely end up elsewhere.
There are still enough prospects on the board that if Florida experiences a crisis of depth due to injury and/or transfer following the season, they will have some options on the board. One of those possibilities is Jordan Williams, a hometown kid who has nearly 20 offers, but has not seen a ton of interest from the Gators to date. He has the size and skill-set to be another inside/outside threat for Florida along the defensive front as well.
In all likelihood, Florida goes with Pagan and Maggitt (who has been quoted recently as saying Florida leads) and calls it a day at the defensive end position adding to an already talented depth pool at the position.
FOX (Weakside)
44 - Duke Lemmens (6-3, 250, Sr.) OR
7 - Ronald Powell (6-4, 248, Fr.)
34 - Lerentee McCray (6-2, 245, R-So.)
85 - Lynden Trail (6-7, 217, Fr.)
Strongside
94 - Justin Trattou (6-4, 255, Sr.)
96 - William Green (6-3, 252, Jr.)
91 - Earl Okine (6-7, 282, R-So.)
93 - Kedric Johnson (6-4, 230, R-Fr.)
Committed to Florida for 2011:
Jeoffrey Pagan (6-3, 265, Asheville, N.C.)
Top of the board:
Curt Maggitt (6-3, 215, Palm Beach Gardens, Fla./Dwyer)
Ray Drew (6-5, 250, Thomasville, Ga./Thomas County Central)
Other prospects to watch:
Anthony Chickillo (6-3, 230, Tampa, Fla./Alonso)
Xzavier Dickson (6-3, 245, Griffin, Ga./Griffin)
Giovani Francois (6-1, 240, Bradenton, Fla./Manatee)
Giorgio Newberry (6-6, 255, Ft. Pierce, Fla./Central)
Jarquez Samuel (6-5, 240, Valdosta, Ga./Valdosta)
Stephon Tuitt (6-5, 260, Monroe, Ga./Monroe Area)
Ishaq Williams (6-6, 225, Brooklyn, N.Y./Lincoln)
Jordan Williams (6-4, 245, Gainesville, Fla./Gainesville)
Ricardo Williams (6-5, 210, Homestead, Fla./Homestead)
Analysis: This is a fairly deep (although unproven) group for the Gators, and the recent addition of Cal transfer Chris Martin (who could play linebacker or defensive end at Florida) only makes it that much more impressive for a group that will soon be headlined by Consensus Prep All-American Ronald Powell.
Looking to the future, the addition of Jeoffrey Pagan gives Florida a versatile defender who will likely be able to line up both inside and outside depending on the situation. His skillset is very similar to former Florida defensive lineman Ray McDonald (now with the San Francisco 49ers) and current Florida defensive lineman Jaye Howard.
There really isn't a whole lot of need here outside of Pagan. Curt Maggitt, Ray Drew and Anthony Chickillo are the three names to keep a close eye on down the stretch. Maggitt is a premier pass-rusher, and has the athletic ability to potentially get a look at outside linebacker as well. Drew and Chickillo will continue to be recruited by the Gators, but the numbers for Florida, and their interest in other schools (Miami for Chickillo, Auburn and Georgia for Drew) dictate they will most likely end up elsewhere.
There are still enough prospects on the board that if Florida experiences a crisis of depth due to injury and/or transfer following the season, they will have some options on the board. One of those possibilities is Jordan Williams, a hometown kid who has nearly 20 offers, but has not seen a ton of interest from the Gators to date. He has the size and skill-set to be another inside/outside threat for Florida along the defensive front as well.
In all likelihood, Florida goes with Pagan and Maggitt (who has been quoted recently as saying Florida leads) and calls it a day at the defensive end position adding to an already talented depth pool at the position.
Friday, July 30, 2010
Where the Gators stand: Offensive Line
This week, I'll be hitting each spot on the Gators depth chart with a position-by-position analysis on where Florida currently stands in regards to the Class of 2011, and what needs still have to be met across the board. This is the fifth part of the series, as the offense comes to a close with a look at the big guys up front.
Current Florida Depth Chart:
Left Tackle
73 - Xavier Nixon (6-5, 300, So.) OR
71 - Matt Patchan (6-6, 292, R-So.)
77 - Ian Silberman (6-5, 285, Fr.)
Left Guard
57 - Carl Johnson (6-5, 355, R-Sr.)
67 - Jon Halapio (6-3, 312, R-Fr.) OR
72 - Jon Harrison (6-3, 300, R-Fr.)
Center
55 - Maurkice Pouncey (6-4, 310, Sr.)
50 - Sam Robey (6-4, 293, R-So.)
58 - Nick Alajajian (6-4, 295, R-Fr.)
Right Guard
66 - James Wilson (6-3, 315, R-Jr.)
74 - Maurice Hurt (6-3, 320, R-Sr.)
78 - David Young (6-4, 304, R-So.)
Right Tackle
76 - Marcus Gilbert (6-5, 320, R-Sr.)
64 - Kyle Kohene (6-5, 300, R-Fr.)
75 - Chaz Green (6-5, 289, Fr.)
Committed to Florida for 2011
Tommy Jordan (6-4, 290, Ridgefield, Conn./Ridgefield) - Jan. enrollee
Trip Thurman (6-6, 310, Dover, Del./Dover)
Top of the board
Cyrus Kouandjio (6-7, 320, Hyattsville, Md./DeMatha Catholic)
Josue Matias (6-5, 290, Union City, N.J./Union)
Xzavier Ward (6-7, 260, Moultrie, Ga./Colquitt County)
Marcus Jackson (6-2, 310, Vero Beach, Fla./Vero Beach) -- Committed to MIAMI
Kyler Kerbyson (6-4, 285, Knoxville, Tenn./Catholic)
Others to watch:
Uneik Crumbley (6-3, 340, Americus, Ga./Sumter)
Zach Hooks (6-4, 285, Aliquippa, Pa./Aliquippa)
Chase Hounshell (6-5, 260, Kirtland, Ohio/Lake Catholic)
Errin Joe (6-3, 285, Lakeland, Fla./Lake Gibson)
Kaleb Johnson (6-4, 285, Jacksonville, Fla./Ed White)
Dontae Levingston (6-4, 285, Harbor City, Calif./Narbonne)
Marquis Lucas (6-3, 305, Miami, Fla./Central)
Keith Lumpkin (6-8, 290, Jersey City, N.J./St. Peter's Prep)
Tyler Pierson (6-3, 265, Clearwater, Fla./Countryside)
Tony Posada (6-5, 315, Tampa, Fla./Plant)
Derrick Thorpe (6-4, 255, Neptune Beach, Fla./Fletcher)
Darrell Williams (6-5, 250, Orlando, Fla./Evans)
Analysis: It's always a safe bet for a college program to invest about one-third of their 85 allotted scholarships on the offensive and defensive lines (in other words, 28 or more of the scholarship players on a team should play along the line of scrimmage).
Looking at the Gators depth chart, Florida currently has 22 underclass players on the depth chart (23 if you include Chris Martin, who could end up at linebacker or defensive end in Gainesville). Florida will lose four seniors following this season who will have exhausted their college eligibility. Along with yearly attrition figured in, it would seem that the target number of linemen for this class would be something like eight, with four offensive linemen and four defensive linemen being a reasonable goal.
The real question here is, will Florida be able to get to four offensive linemen in the 2011 class?It doesn't seem like a sure bet at this point. It has been a down year around the state of Florida for the position (especially when compared with last year), and Florida has missed on a number of targets for one reason or another.
- Tyler Moore (6-6, 305, Clearwater, Fla./Countryside) was arguably the top lineman on the board for Steve Addazio early on. He narrowed things down to Nebraska and Florida before he decided to follow a long line of family members to play in Lincoln last fall.
- This spring, Florida targeted Jordan Prestwood (6-6, 275, Plant City, Fla./Plant City) as a potential left tackle candidate. The Gators would offer in March, shortly before Prestwood decided to commit to Notre Dame in early April.
- Although Bobby Hart (6-4, 290, Ft. Lauderdale, Fla./St. Thomas Aquinas) was high on the Gators early on, Florida did not return the love, waiting until April to extend an offer. By that time, Hart had moved on to other schools, and would make a commitment to Florida State in July.
Beyond those three players, there may not be another offensive lineman from the state of Florida who gets an offer from the Gators unless something changes down the stretch. Clearly, Addazio is not all that impressed by the selection in-state this year, and has looked mostly to the Northeast to help replenish the reserves along the offensive front.
Say what you want about Tommy Jordan, but he was a September 1st offer for the Gators. Jordan impressed during a workout in Gainesville last summer, and was clearly high on the board for Florida from the outset. Jordan will be a versatile addition to the offensive line, and has the ability to line up at center, guard, or even possibly right offensive tackle.
Trip Thurman will join him, and he has the look of a future offensive tackle in Gainesville. More technically sound as a run blocker, he likely projects as a right tackle for the Gators. Thurman is every bit of 6-6, 310 pounds, and will give Addazio another big body to work with up front when he reports next fall.
The biggest priority now for Florida is that they add someone who can potentially contribute at left tackle down the road. Xavier Nixon has the look of a player who could go pro after the 2011 season and be selected in the first round of the NFL Draft. If that scenario takes place, the left tackle Florida recruits in the 2011 class would get one year to prepare for the open position heading into the fall of 2012. As mentioned in the tight ends round-up, the Gators could elect for an tight end/offensive line 'tweener (Austin Seferian-Jenkins, Cameron Clear, Troy Niklas or Brandon Fulse) at the slot, or possibly look to prospects projected to play on the defensive line (Giorgio Newberry stands out there) to play left tackle down the road if some of the prospects at tackle do not pan out.
At the top, Cyrus Kouandjio is possibly the top offensive line prospect in the country, and he projects as a potential left tackle candidate. Florida does not appear to be a serious factor for his services at the present time, however. Josue Matias and Xzavier Ward are next on the board, and both currently look to have the Gators on their short lists. Ward is more of a true left tackle candidate, while Matias could project more as a right tackle. In any case, both are expected to visit Florida this fall, and they could be two of the names to closely watch at tackle as National Signing Day continues to creep closer.
Another name to watch is Chase Hounshell, who will visit Florida next week. A meeting with the Florida coaching staff could result in an offer. If that were to happen, Hounshell would draw strong interest at that left tackle slot as well.
An additional interior lineman would likely close out this class for the Gators along the offensive line. Keep in mind, true freshman Leon Orr could end up on the offensive line next spring, and that could be factoring in Florida's direction in regards to recruiting along the offensive front. In any case, the Gators are halfway to their goal, and look to need two more prospects to close this group out along the offensive line.
Current Florida Depth Chart:
Left Tackle
73 - Xavier Nixon (6-5, 300, So.) OR
71 - Matt Patchan (6-6, 292, R-So.)
77 - Ian Silberman (6-5, 285, Fr.)
Left Guard
57 - Carl Johnson (6-5, 355, R-Sr.)
67 - Jon Halapio (6-3, 312, R-Fr.) OR
72 - Jon Harrison (6-3, 300, R-Fr.)
Center
55 - Maurkice Pouncey (6-4, 310, Sr.)
50 - Sam Robey (6-4, 293, R-So.)
58 - Nick Alajajian (6-4, 295, R-Fr.)
Right Guard
66 - James Wilson (6-3, 315, R-Jr.)
74 - Maurice Hurt (6-3, 320, R-Sr.)
78 - David Young (6-4, 304, R-So.)
Right Tackle
76 - Marcus Gilbert (6-5, 320, R-Sr.)
64 - Kyle Kohene (6-5, 300, R-Fr.)
75 - Chaz Green (6-5, 289, Fr.)
Committed to Florida for 2011
Tommy Jordan (6-4, 290, Ridgefield, Conn./Ridgefield) - Jan. enrollee
Trip Thurman (6-6, 310, Dover, Del./Dover)
Top of the board
Cyrus Kouandjio (6-7, 320, Hyattsville, Md./DeMatha Catholic)
Josue Matias (6-5, 290, Union City, N.J./Union)
Xzavier Ward (6-7, 260, Moultrie, Ga./Colquitt County)
Marcus Jackson (6-2, 310, Vero Beach, Fla./Vero Beach) -- Committed to MIAMI
Kyler Kerbyson (6-4, 285, Knoxville, Tenn./Catholic)
Others to watch:
Uneik Crumbley (6-3, 340, Americus, Ga./Sumter)
Zach Hooks (6-4, 285, Aliquippa, Pa./Aliquippa)
Chase Hounshell (6-5, 260, Kirtland, Ohio/Lake Catholic)
Errin Joe (6-3, 285, Lakeland, Fla./Lake Gibson)
Kaleb Johnson (6-4, 285, Jacksonville, Fla./Ed White)
Dontae Levingston (6-4, 285, Harbor City, Calif./Narbonne)
Marquis Lucas (6-3, 305, Miami, Fla./Central)
Keith Lumpkin (6-8, 290, Jersey City, N.J./St. Peter's Prep)
Tyler Pierson (6-3, 265, Clearwater, Fla./Countryside)
Tony Posada (6-5, 315, Tampa, Fla./Plant)
Derrick Thorpe (6-4, 255, Neptune Beach, Fla./Fletcher)
Darrell Williams (6-5, 250, Orlando, Fla./Evans)
Analysis: It's always a safe bet for a college program to invest about one-third of their 85 allotted scholarships on the offensive and defensive lines (in other words, 28 or more of the scholarship players on a team should play along the line of scrimmage).
Looking at the Gators depth chart, Florida currently has 22 underclass players on the depth chart (23 if you include Chris Martin, who could end up at linebacker or defensive end in Gainesville). Florida will lose four seniors following this season who will have exhausted their college eligibility. Along with yearly attrition figured in, it would seem that the target number of linemen for this class would be something like eight, with four offensive linemen and four defensive linemen being a reasonable goal.
The real question here is, will Florida be able to get to four offensive linemen in the 2011 class?It doesn't seem like a sure bet at this point. It has been a down year around the state of Florida for the position (especially when compared with last year), and Florida has missed on a number of targets for one reason or another.
- Tyler Moore (6-6, 305, Clearwater, Fla./Countryside) was arguably the top lineman on the board for Steve Addazio early on. He narrowed things down to Nebraska and Florida before he decided to follow a long line of family members to play in Lincoln last fall.
- This spring, Florida targeted Jordan Prestwood (6-6, 275, Plant City, Fla./Plant City) as a potential left tackle candidate. The Gators would offer in March, shortly before Prestwood decided to commit to Notre Dame in early April.
- Although Bobby Hart (6-4, 290, Ft. Lauderdale, Fla./St. Thomas Aquinas) was high on the Gators early on, Florida did not return the love, waiting until April to extend an offer. By that time, Hart had moved on to other schools, and would make a commitment to Florida State in July.
Beyond those three players, there may not be another offensive lineman from the state of Florida who gets an offer from the Gators unless something changes down the stretch. Clearly, Addazio is not all that impressed by the selection in-state this year, and has looked mostly to the Northeast to help replenish the reserves along the offensive front.
Say what you want about Tommy Jordan, but he was a September 1st offer for the Gators. Jordan impressed during a workout in Gainesville last summer, and was clearly high on the board for Florida from the outset. Jordan will be a versatile addition to the offensive line, and has the ability to line up at center, guard, or even possibly right offensive tackle.
Trip Thurman will join him, and he has the look of a future offensive tackle in Gainesville. More technically sound as a run blocker, he likely projects as a right tackle for the Gators. Thurman is every bit of 6-6, 310 pounds, and will give Addazio another big body to work with up front when he reports next fall.
The biggest priority now for Florida is that they add someone who can potentially contribute at left tackle down the road. Xavier Nixon has the look of a player who could go pro after the 2011 season and be selected in the first round of the NFL Draft. If that scenario takes place, the left tackle Florida recruits in the 2011 class would get one year to prepare for the open position heading into the fall of 2012. As mentioned in the tight ends round-up, the Gators could elect for an tight end/offensive line 'tweener (Austin Seferian-Jenkins, Cameron Clear, Troy Niklas or Brandon Fulse) at the slot, or possibly look to prospects projected to play on the defensive line (Giorgio Newberry stands out there) to play left tackle down the road if some of the prospects at tackle do not pan out.
At the top, Cyrus Kouandjio is possibly the top offensive line prospect in the country, and he projects as a potential left tackle candidate. Florida does not appear to be a serious factor for his services at the present time, however. Josue Matias and Xzavier Ward are next on the board, and both currently look to have the Gators on their short lists. Ward is more of a true left tackle candidate, while Matias could project more as a right tackle. In any case, both are expected to visit Florida this fall, and they could be two of the names to closely watch at tackle as National Signing Day continues to creep closer.
Another name to watch is Chase Hounshell, who will visit Florida next week. A meeting with the Florida coaching staff could result in an offer. If that were to happen, Hounshell would draw strong interest at that left tackle slot as well.
An additional interior lineman would likely close out this class for the Gators along the offensive line. Keep in mind, true freshman Leon Orr could end up on the offensive line next spring, and that could be factoring in Florida's direction in regards to recruiting along the offensive front. In any case, the Gators are halfway to their goal, and look to need two more prospects to close this group out along the offensive line.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)