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04-04-2013, 02:04 AM
As mentioned previously, 2015 star RB Damien Harris from Madison Southern visited UK's practice today. After Barker & Elam, Harris is the top in state target for UK. The staff has a lot of ground to make up on this kid but the good news is they have plenty of time to do it. The utilization of Jojo Kemp this fall may be a key in Harris' recruitment as he's likely to see he will get carries early & often at UK.
Speaking of Matt Elam, he received 69 hand written letters in the mail today from UK. The 69 to signify the #69 he wears, which a note included said they were holding for him.
https://twitter.com/FballIsLife69/status...01/photo/1
UK has offered their third in state player in the 2014 class in Seneca TE/DE Lloyd Tubman, who is currently a WKU commit. He also has an offer from Vandy while getting interest from Cincinnati, Louisville, & Ohio State.
http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/re...man-147677
Also visiting campus today, was Toledo, OH (Central Catholic) OL Zach Harmon. Harmon has been on UK's radar for sometime as he is the teammate of UK targets 4* QB Deshone Kizer & 2* RB/LB Paul Moses. Harmon has yet to pick up an offer from UK but was seen chatting it up with OL coach Schlarman.
3* ATH Lonnie Johnson from Gary, IN continues to surface in conversations. UK's staff feels really good about their chances with him & Johnson has said UK is in his top 3 along with Ohio State & Cincinnati. Lexington may be the most likely landing spot for Johnson but if Ohio State made him a priority, it would be a dogfight. He wants to try to visit UK soon.
Georgia commit 4* DB Nick Glass will be visiting UK next week for an extended stay from Wednesday through Saturday but that's only tentative. Schools all over the south have been recruiting him but he's another on the UK staff feels confident about. He seems to be open in his recruiting but is very cautious with his words.
Nebraska transferee RB Braylon Heard, recently visited UK among other schools but made his way home to Youngstown & more specifically his alma mater Cardinal Mooney. While in town, his path crossed with UK signee Marcus McWilson. McWilson said he didn't try to put any pressure on Heard. FWIW, UK's staff feels pretty confident with Heard. Heard has tried to keep a low profile but things are looking pretty good for the Cats.
UK offered St. Louis, MO (Christian Brothers College High) DT Armon Watts. Watts is an intriguing, under the radar prospect. He's very pleased with the offer from the Cats but it's still early & he's hoping for more offers. He very well could be a visitor for the spring game. UK was the third school to offer, the other two Ball State & Idaho. He's also garnered interest from Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas State, Miami(OH), Michigan State, Minnesota, Missouri, Northern Illinois, Northwestern & Tulsa.
http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/re...tts-148412
Speaking of Matt Elam, he received 69 hand written letters in the mail today from UK. The 69 to signify the #69 he wears, which a note included said they were holding for him.
https://twitter.com/FballIsLife69/status...01/photo/1
UK has offered their third in state player in the 2014 class in Seneca TE/DE Lloyd Tubman, who is currently a WKU commit. He also has an offer from Vandy while getting interest from Cincinnati, Louisville, & Ohio State.
http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/re...man-147677
Also visiting campus today, was Toledo, OH (Central Catholic) OL Zach Harmon. Harmon has been on UK's radar for sometime as he is the teammate of UK targets 4* QB Deshone Kizer & 2* RB/LB Paul Moses. Harmon has yet to pick up an offer from UK but was seen chatting it up with OL coach Schlarman.
3* ATH Lonnie Johnson from Gary, IN continues to surface in conversations. UK's staff feels really good about their chances with him & Johnson has said UK is in his top 3 along with Ohio State & Cincinnati. Lexington may be the most likely landing spot for Johnson but if Ohio State made him a priority, it would be a dogfight. He wants to try to visit UK soon.
Georgia commit 4* DB Nick Glass will be visiting UK next week for an extended stay from Wednesday through Saturday but that's only tentative. Schools all over the south have been recruiting him but he's another on the UK staff feels confident about. He seems to be open in his recruiting but is very cautious with his words.
Nebraska transferee RB Braylon Heard, recently visited UK among other schools but made his way home to Youngstown & more specifically his alma mater Cardinal Mooney. While in town, his path crossed with UK signee Marcus McWilson. McWilson said he didn't try to put any pressure on Heard. FWIW, UK's staff feels pretty confident with Heard. Heard has tried to keep a low profile but things are looking pretty good for the Cats.
UK offered St. Louis, MO (Christian Brothers College High) DT Armon Watts. Watts is an intriguing, under the radar prospect. He's very pleased with the offer from the Cats but it's still early & he's hoping for more offers. He very well could be a visitor for the spring game. UK was the third school to offer, the other two Ball State & Idaho. He's also garnered interest from Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas State, Miami(OH), Michigan State, Minnesota, Missouri, Northern Illinois, Northwestern & Tulsa.
http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/re...tts-148412
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04-05-2013, 12:01 AM
Cats offer athlete committed to South Florida
Justin Rowland
Special to CatsIllustrated.com
Kentucky and South Florida went head to head for multiple recruits in the last recruiting cycle and that was just in the last couple of months before Signing Day.
The Wildcats and Bulls are continuing their growing recruiting rivalry into the early stages of the Class of 2014. Running back Jarvis Stewart is committed to USF and Kentucky continues to recruit him.
The Cats are also now recruiting Immokalee (Fla.) athlete Jimmy Bayes, a four-star prospect who committed to Willie Taggart's program in January.
Kentucky just offered Bayes over the weekend and in spite of his relatively lean, 6-foot-3, 198-pound frame, the Cats see him as a linebacker.
"Coach Jimmy (Brumbaugh) is the one who offered me and we've been talking for like a week and a half," he said, noting that he has also been in contact with D.J. Eliot. "They've told me they didn't sign any linebackers last year, this past Signing Day, and they said they want a linebacker like myself who's good in space. I can get to the edge so nothing gets past me. They want an athletic player to make it tougher for the offense. I'm a fast, long player and it's hard to run around me."
Linebacker is a big priority for Kentucky in this recruiting class and Dorian Hendrix is already committed. Not every school is recruiting Bayes as a receiver. For example, Arkansas is recruiting him as a wide receiver. Others see him potentially as a safety.
Kentucky is an intriguing option for Bayes.
"I'm interested in Kentucky because they didn't sign (any) linebackers so I know they're in need. It's in the SEC, too. That's big," he said.
"My commitment to USF is pretty much a soft commit right now. I'm respecting it but I'm still listening to other schools. I'm not trying to be arrogant because you never know what might come to you."
Kentucky's staff has some experience recruiting Immokalee. Mark Stoops and Eliot recruited the school heavily when they were at Florida State and from last year's class Kentucky tried to get involved with Mackensie and Mackenro Alexander.
Bayes told Cats Illustrated he plans to visit Florida State and Miami in the near future. Kentucky could be on tap after that.
"I might take a trip to Kentucky in the near future, probably over the summer," he said.
http://kentucky.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1490421
Justin Rowland
Special to CatsIllustrated.com
Kentucky and South Florida went head to head for multiple recruits in the last recruiting cycle and that was just in the last couple of months before Signing Day.
The Wildcats and Bulls are continuing their growing recruiting rivalry into the early stages of the Class of 2014. Running back Jarvis Stewart is committed to USF and Kentucky continues to recruit him.
The Cats are also now recruiting Immokalee (Fla.) athlete Jimmy Bayes, a four-star prospect who committed to Willie Taggart's program in January.
Kentucky just offered Bayes over the weekend and in spite of his relatively lean, 6-foot-3, 198-pound frame, the Cats see him as a linebacker.
"Coach Jimmy (Brumbaugh) is the one who offered me and we've been talking for like a week and a half," he said, noting that he has also been in contact with D.J. Eliot. "They've told me they didn't sign any linebackers last year, this past Signing Day, and they said they want a linebacker like myself who's good in space. I can get to the edge so nothing gets past me. They want an athletic player to make it tougher for the offense. I'm a fast, long player and it's hard to run around me."
Linebacker is a big priority for Kentucky in this recruiting class and Dorian Hendrix is already committed. Not every school is recruiting Bayes as a receiver. For example, Arkansas is recruiting him as a wide receiver. Others see him potentially as a safety.
Kentucky is an intriguing option for Bayes.
"I'm interested in Kentucky because they didn't sign (any) linebackers so I know they're in need. It's in the SEC, too. That's big," he said.
"My commitment to USF is pretty much a soft commit right now. I'm respecting it but I'm still listening to other schools. I'm not trying to be arrogant because you never know what might come to you."
Kentucky's staff has some experience recruiting Immokalee. Mark Stoops and Eliot recruited the school heavily when they were at Florida State and from last year's class Kentucky tried to get involved with Mackensie and Mackenro Alexander.
Bayes told Cats Illustrated he plans to visit Florida State and Miami in the near future. Kentucky could be on tap after that.
"I might take a trip to Kentucky in the near future, probably over the summer," he said.
http://kentucky.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1490421
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04-05-2013, 12:18 AM
Ohio safety growing more familiar with Kentucky
Justin Rowland
Special to CatsIllustrated.com
There can be no doubting the fact that Mike Edwards is one of Kentucky's top defensive back targets and the Cincinnati (Ohio) Winton Woods safety was in Lexington again last week.
Edwards has become very familiar since the Wildcats became one of the first schools to start recruiting him earlier in the process. The 6-foot, 185-pound safety, a near four-star prospect, was at Kentucky once again on Friday.
"It was good," Edwards recalled. "I got there and got to sit in on defensive meetings and the safeties meeting. I liked the way the meetings went and I understood what was going on.
"The practice was a really good tempo. They were going after it."
However, Edwards noticed that the Wildcats are a long way from where he believes this coaching staff is going to take them. That could make for some growing pains at first, he noted, but it's a sign that there's a genuine opportunity for talented players to come in and make a difference.
"I'd say the practice was about even between the offense and the defense. I think they've got some improving to do but they should be okay by next year," he said.
Edwards, who runs the 40-yard dash in 4.59 seconds and carries a 2.85 GPA, has always spoken very highly of the Wildcats ever since they offered him. Even as his recruitment has blown up and other offers have come pouring in his interest in Kentucky has not diminished in the least.
"I've got a lot of interest in Kentucky. The coaches are laid back but some of them are high energy, like coach (Derrick) Ansley. He's intense. He gets on you if you've got your hands on your hips," he said.
Edwards has been saying he plans to narrow his list for a while now and he reiterated those plans to Cats Illustrated this weekend. He said that will probably happen "in the next couple of weeks," and he said again that Kentucky will almost certainly make that cut.
He plans to visit several other schools in the weeks ahead and that should give him a better idea of what he's looking for. Edwards expects to visit Michigan, Ohio State and some other schools in the Midwest, and he plans to attend spring games at both Louisville and Kentucky.
http://kentucky.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1491194
Justin Rowland
Special to CatsIllustrated.com
There can be no doubting the fact that Mike Edwards is one of Kentucky's top defensive back targets and the Cincinnati (Ohio) Winton Woods safety was in Lexington again last week.
Edwards has become very familiar since the Wildcats became one of the first schools to start recruiting him earlier in the process. The 6-foot, 185-pound safety, a near four-star prospect, was at Kentucky once again on Friday.
"It was good," Edwards recalled. "I got there and got to sit in on defensive meetings and the safeties meeting. I liked the way the meetings went and I understood what was going on.
"The practice was a really good tempo. They were going after it."
However, Edwards noticed that the Wildcats are a long way from where he believes this coaching staff is going to take them. That could make for some growing pains at first, he noted, but it's a sign that there's a genuine opportunity for talented players to come in and make a difference.
"I'd say the practice was about even between the offense and the defense. I think they've got some improving to do but they should be okay by next year," he said.
Edwards, who runs the 40-yard dash in 4.59 seconds and carries a 2.85 GPA, has always spoken very highly of the Wildcats ever since they offered him. Even as his recruitment has blown up and other offers have come pouring in his interest in Kentucky has not diminished in the least.
"I've got a lot of interest in Kentucky. The coaches are laid back but some of them are high energy, like coach (Derrick) Ansley. He's intense. He gets on you if you've got your hands on your hips," he said.
Edwards has been saying he plans to narrow his list for a while now and he reiterated those plans to Cats Illustrated this weekend. He said that will probably happen "in the next couple of weeks," and he said again that Kentucky will almost certainly make that cut.
He plans to visit several other schools in the weeks ahead and that should give him a better idea of what he's looking for. Edwards expects to visit Michigan, Ohio State and some other schools in the Midwest, and he plans to attend spring games at both Louisville and Kentucky.
http://kentucky.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1491194
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04-05-2013, 12:24 AM
Ohio LB Moore gets first look at Kentucky
Justin Rowland
Special to CatsIllustrated.com
Even with Dorian Hendrix on board Kentucky is looking for help at the linebacker position, and it's only natural that the Wildcats would continue to tap into the Buckeye State.
Now Kentucky is taking a look at Airius Moore, a 6-foot-1, 215-pound prospect from Beavercreek (Ohio) with offers from most of the MAC schools as well as Cincinnati, Indiana and Illinois.
Moore visited Kentucky for the first time on Wednesday and while he left town without an offer it's clear Kentucky is interested.
"It was pretty good," Moore said of his trip to Lexington. "The coaching staff seems like they're live and energetic. I talked to coach (Vince) Marrow. I had spoken to him on the phone before that and it was good to be there with him.
"We toured the Nutter Center building and then watched them practice. I sat in on the (linebackers) meeting with coach (D.J.) Eliot and that was really good. He seems kinda laid back in the meeting but during the practice he was live and energetic. He seemed very intelligent about the game of football."
The facilities were one of the more impressive parts of the trip that stuck with Moore, even though he was only around them briefly.
"I got to see the players lounge, where they lift weights at, the outdoor facility and the indoor facility," he said. "They said they were going to renovate and do something new in 2015 but I thought they were pretty good.
"I would say I've got a good amount of interest in Kentucky. It was a good visit."
Moore was at Purdue and Bowling Green recently as well. He maintains that he has no favorites.
The three-star linebacker said he is unsure of when he's likely to make a decision but will probably attend camps this summer in the hopes of earning more offers.
http://kentucky.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1491513
Justin Rowland
Special to CatsIllustrated.com
Even with Dorian Hendrix on board Kentucky is looking for help at the linebacker position, and it's only natural that the Wildcats would continue to tap into the Buckeye State.
Now Kentucky is taking a look at Airius Moore, a 6-foot-1, 215-pound prospect from Beavercreek (Ohio) with offers from most of the MAC schools as well as Cincinnati, Indiana and Illinois.
Moore visited Kentucky for the first time on Wednesday and while he left town without an offer it's clear Kentucky is interested.
"It was pretty good," Moore said of his trip to Lexington. "The coaching staff seems like they're live and energetic. I talked to coach (Vince) Marrow. I had spoken to him on the phone before that and it was good to be there with him.
"We toured the Nutter Center building and then watched them practice. I sat in on the (linebackers) meeting with coach (D.J.) Eliot and that was really good. He seems kinda laid back in the meeting but during the practice he was live and energetic. He seemed very intelligent about the game of football."
The facilities were one of the more impressive parts of the trip that stuck with Moore, even though he was only around them briefly.
"I got to see the players lounge, where they lift weights at, the outdoor facility and the indoor facility," he said. "They said they were going to renovate and do something new in 2015 but I thought they were pretty good.
"I would say I've got a good amount of interest in Kentucky. It was a good visit."
Moore was at Purdue and Bowling Green recently as well. He maintains that he has no favorites.
The three-star linebacker said he is unsure of when he's likely to make a decision but will probably attend camps this summer in the hopes of earning more offers.
http://kentucky.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1491513
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04-05-2013, 02:41 PM
John Hardin DT Matt Elam is visited practice today. There are a couple of out of state recruits also visiting, but it's unclear who they are at this point. However, it appears Stoops is spending most of his time with Elam to make it apparent to Elam he's a priority. Elam, most recently visited Joker & staff at Florida but UK is making a strong push right now but don't expect a decision from Elam anytime soon.
https://twitter.com/FballIsLife69/status...56/photo/1
4* RB from Illinois, Justin Jackson plans to visit Iowa & UK in weeks ahead. UK's staff is obviously waiting on a decision from Braylon Heard, but beyond him basically the next few, which includes Mikel Horton, Justin Jackson, & Jeff Jones.
UK has offered 4* OLB Richard Yeargin III from Ft. Lauderdale, FL (University School). He's good athlete & as equally a good student. He also has offers from Arkansas, Boston College, Clemson, Florida, Florida State, Louisville, Marshall, UMASS, Ole Miss, Mississippi State, NC State, Purdue, Rutgers, South Carolina, USF, Tennessee, UCLA, Vandy, Wake Forest, WVU, & Wisconsin. He also has gotten interest from Alabama, Auburn, LSU, Miami(FL), Notre Dame, Ohio State, & Stanford.
http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/re...yer-137007
Tates Creek ATH will be visiting WKU this weekend to meet with Petrino & staff. However, he will be at UK's spring game.
https://twitter.com/FballIsLife69/status...56/photo/1
4* RB from Illinois, Justin Jackson plans to visit Iowa & UK in weeks ahead. UK's staff is obviously waiting on a decision from Braylon Heard, but beyond him basically the next few, which includes Mikel Horton, Justin Jackson, & Jeff Jones.
UK has offered 4* OLB Richard Yeargin III from Ft. Lauderdale, FL (University School). He's good athlete & as equally a good student. He also has offers from Arkansas, Boston College, Clemson, Florida, Florida State, Louisville, Marshall, UMASS, Ole Miss, Mississippi State, NC State, Purdue, Rutgers, South Carolina, USF, Tennessee, UCLA, Vandy, Wake Forest, WVU, & Wisconsin. He also has gotten interest from Alabama, Auburn, LSU, Miami(FL), Notre Dame, Ohio State, & Stanford.
http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/re...yer-137007
Tates Creek ATH will be visiting WKU this weekend to meet with Petrino & staff. However, he will be at UK's spring game.
04-05-2013, 03:19 PM
4* RB Stanley "Boom" Williams from Bethlehem, GA (George Walton Academy) has decommitted from Georgia & will open up his recruitment. UK is in the mix & has already offered him back in February. Bradley Dale Peveto has taken the lead in his recruitment & he plans to visit UK soon. He also has offers from LSU, Mississippi State, South Carolina, Tennessee, Auburn, Clemson, & Georgia Tech. He's also gotten interest from Alabama, Florida, Florida State, Georgia State, Notre Dame, Oregon, & Texas A&M.
http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/re...ams-115236
http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/re...ams-115236
04-05-2013, 03:51 PM
Nearly a week after UK sent Drew Barker 115 hand written letters, Dan Mullen & Mississippi State sent him 102 today. However, the good news are Barker is he has now snubbed South Carolina & Steve Spurrier to visit UK's spring game. Knowing Spurrier's sensitivity & cockiness, this may mark then end of Barker's recruitment by the Gamecocks. Which is obviously good news for UK.
He told Justin Rowland of Rivals this: ”I decided to switch because I’ve already seen everything to make a decision based off of South Carolina and I feel very comfortable with them. That being said I want to give other schools a fair shake and make sure I see and do everything at these schools like I did at SC. I will be at (Kentucky’s) practice on (April) 8th but will come back and stay Friday and Saturday.” He is currently on his way to Tennessee for an unofficial visit this weekend.
He told Justin Rowland of Rivals this: ”I decided to switch because I’ve already seen everything to make a decision based off of South Carolina and I feel very comfortable with them. That being said I want to give other schools a fair shake and make sure I see and do everything at these schools like I did at SC. I will be at (Kentucky’s) practice on (April) 8th but will come back and stay Friday and Saturday.” He is currently on his way to Tennessee for an unofficial visit this weekend.
04-06-2013, 08:01 PM
Drew Barker is at Tennessee right now. Barring something unforeseen the Vols aren't seen as a major threat.
Damien Harrisenjoyed practice Thursday.
[SIZE=2][SIZE=2]4* WR Bla[SIZE=2]ke Bone from Woodruff, SC is visiting[/SIZE] Auburn this weekend and then Ole Miss. Timing couldn't be much worse for the Auburn visit, at least as far as the Tigers are concerned. Ole Miss is a juggernaut in recruiting right now so that's one to watch.[/SIZE]
[/SIZE]Tallahassee Godby [SIZE=2][SIZE=2]3* CB D[SIZE=2]e'Eric[/SIZE][/SIZE] Culver is at Vandy this weekend. Expect the Cats and Dores to go head to head for an increasing number of prospects.[/SIZE]
4* RB Mikel Horton will be narrowing his list down sometime before the end of April. The [SIZE=2]Cats are expected to make the cut. Horton is saying he's open but the buzz is Kentucky is still at the top of his list.[/SIZE]
3* RB Kamryn Pettway is an Auburn commit from Prattville, Alabama[SIZE=2], he has not set any other trips. However, you can expect schools to double down on their recruiting efforts with him & other Auburn recruits. Pettway also h[SIZE=2]as offers from UK[SIZE=2], Florida State, & Georgia.
[/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE]http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/re...way-142838[SIZE=2][SIZE=2][SIZE=2]
[/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE][SIZE=2][SIZE=2][SIZE=2][SIZE=2]Rumors are flying that Durham (N.C.) Hillside safety Kalen McCain is likely to commit to Louisville in the not too distant future. This can only help UK hold onto their lead with [SIZE=2]Cin[SIZE=2]cinnati Winton Woods DB [/SIZE]Mike Edwards. Not sure how many safeties U of L has spots for but it will be one fewer if that happens.
UK has offered 3[SIZE=2]* OL [SIZE=2]Ty Barrett from Dallas[SIZE=2], TX (Skyline[SIZE=2]) & the interest is mutual. He also has offers from Arizona State, Baylor, Duke[SIZE=2], Houston, Kansas State, LA Mon[SIZE=2]roe, Ole Miss, Morgan State, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Rice, SMU, TCU, Texas Tech, [SIZE=2]UCF, [SIZE=2]Washington State, & WVU.
[/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE]http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/re...ett-137694[SIZE=2][SIZE=2][SIZE=2][SIZE=2]
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Damien Harrisenjoyed practice Thursday.
[SIZE=2][SIZE=2]4* WR Bla[SIZE=2]ke Bone from Woodruff, SC is visiting[/SIZE] Auburn this weekend and then Ole Miss. Timing couldn't be much worse for the Auburn visit, at least as far as the Tigers are concerned. Ole Miss is a juggernaut in recruiting right now so that's one to watch.[/SIZE]
[/SIZE]Tallahassee Godby [SIZE=2][SIZE=2]3* CB D[SIZE=2]e'Eric[/SIZE][/SIZE] Culver is at Vandy this weekend. Expect the Cats and Dores to go head to head for an increasing number of prospects.[/SIZE]
4* RB Mikel Horton will be narrowing his list down sometime before the end of April. The [SIZE=2]Cats are expected to make the cut. Horton is saying he's open but the buzz is Kentucky is still at the top of his list.[/SIZE]
3* RB Kamryn Pettway is an Auburn commit from Prattville, Alabama[SIZE=2], he has not set any other trips. However, you can expect schools to double down on their recruiting efforts with him & other Auburn recruits. Pettway also h[SIZE=2]as offers from UK[SIZE=2], Florida State, & Georgia.
[/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE]http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/re...way-142838[SIZE=2][SIZE=2][SIZE=2]
[/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE][SIZE=2][SIZE=2][SIZE=2][SIZE=2]Rumors are flying that Durham (N.C.) Hillside safety Kalen McCain is likely to commit to Louisville in the not too distant future. This can only help UK hold onto their lead with [SIZE=2]Cin[SIZE=2]cinnati Winton Woods DB [/SIZE]Mike Edwards. Not sure how many safeties U of L has spots for but it will be one fewer if that happens.
UK has offered 3[SIZE=2]* OL [SIZE=2]Ty Barrett from Dallas[SIZE=2], TX (Skyline[SIZE=2]) & the interest is mutual. He also has offers from Arizona State, Baylor, Duke[SIZE=2], Houston, Kansas State, LA Mon[SIZE=2]roe, Ole Miss, Morgan State, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Rice, SMU, TCU, Texas Tech, [SIZE=2]UCF, [SIZE=2]Washington State, & WVU.
[/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE]http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/re...ett-137694[SIZE=2][SIZE=2][SIZE=2][SIZE=2]
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04-06-2013, 08:24 PM
Quarterbacks:
Drew Barker 4 star
D.J. Gillins 4 star
DeShone Kizer 4 star
Running Backs:
Mikel Horton 4 star
Cam Singletary N/R
Wide Receivers:
Thaddeus Snodgrass 4 star
Derek Kief 4 star
T.V. Williams 3 star
Nacarius Fant N/R
Alex Cason N/R
Alex Montgomery (2013 commit)
Ryan Timmons (2013 commit)
Tightends:
Darryl Long 3 star
Offensive Linemen:
Jarrett Larrubio 3 star
Eric Shute 3 star
Kirk Barron 3 star
Brady Taylor N/R
Jon Bezney N/R
Tyler Jordan (2015)
George Brown (2015)
Kyle Meadows (2013 commit)
Defensive Linemen:
Matt Elam 3 star
Tyler Jones N/R
Seth Hope N/R
Jason Hatcher (2013 commit)
Jacob Hyde (2013 commit)
Melvin Lewis (2013 commit)
Linebackers:
Tinashe Bere 3 star
Chris Frey 3 star
Dorian Hendix 3 star (commit)
Roquan Smith (2015)
Defensive Backs:
Nick Glass 4 star
Darius West 4 star
Mike Edwards 3 star
Kobie Walker 3 star
Mike Stevens N/R
Jaleel Hytchye (2013 commit)
Blake McClain (2013 commit)
Marcus McWilson (2013 commit)
Athlete:
Tyrell Gilbert N/R
R.J. Taylor N/R
Drew Barker 4 star
D.J. Gillins 4 star
DeShone Kizer 4 star
Running Backs:
Mikel Horton 4 star
Cam Singletary N/R
Wide Receivers:
Thaddeus Snodgrass 4 star
Derek Kief 4 star
T.V. Williams 3 star
Nacarius Fant N/R
Alex Cason N/R
Alex Montgomery (2013 commit)
Ryan Timmons (2013 commit)
Tightends:
Darryl Long 3 star
Offensive Linemen:
Jarrett Larrubio 3 star
Eric Shute 3 star
Kirk Barron 3 star
Brady Taylor N/R
Jon Bezney N/R
Tyler Jordan (2015)
George Brown (2015)
Kyle Meadows (2013 commit)
Defensive Linemen:
Matt Elam 3 star
Tyler Jones N/R
Seth Hope N/R
Jason Hatcher (2013 commit)
Jacob Hyde (2013 commit)
Melvin Lewis (2013 commit)
Linebackers:
Tinashe Bere 3 star
Chris Frey 3 star
Dorian Hendix 3 star (commit)
Roquan Smith (2015)
Defensive Backs:
Nick Glass 4 star
Darius West 4 star
Mike Edwards 3 star
Kobie Walker 3 star
Mike Stevens N/R
Jaleel Hytchye (2013 commit)
Blake McClain (2013 commit)
Marcus McWilson (2013 commit)
Athlete:
Tyrell Gilbert N/R
R.J. Taylor N/R
04-07-2013, 02:16 PM
http://rivals.yahoo.com/video/recruiting...651d103d62
The video above is our first commit from the 2014 class @ Rivals Camp in Birmingham yesterday. He attempted to get ahold of UK's staff as well as the Florida staff last night, to possibly go ahead & flip his commitment to the Gators. This kid hasn't been in Lexington yet, & only flipped his commit from Florida State to UK to follow Stoops & Elliot. His recruitment isn't finished yet, but for now he'll likely make his 2nd flip this year already, sometime in the near future.
Tampa, FL ATH T.J. Harrell says his visit to Lexington is the recruiting trip that he's looking forward to the most.
The video above is our first commit from the 2014 class @ Rivals Camp in Birmingham yesterday. He attempted to get ahold of UK's staff as well as the Florida staff last night, to possibly go ahead & flip his commitment to the Gators. This kid hasn't been in Lexington yet, & only flipped his commit from Florida State to UK to follow Stoops & Elliot. His recruitment isn't finished yet, but for now he'll likely make his 2nd flip this year already, sometime in the near future.
Tampa, FL ATH T.J. Harrell says his visit to Lexington is the recruiting trip that he's looking forward to the most.
04-10-2013, 12:09 AM
Linebacker says new staff has 'completely changed' UK
Justin Rowland
Special to CatsIllustrated.com
Upper Arlington (Ohio) linebacker Chris Frey had been to Kentucky once before this past weekend, but his most recent experience at the school blew him away.
"It was amazing," Frey said of his weekend trip to UK. "Absolutely amazing."
The 6-foot-2, 210-pound linebacker has been rumored to be a prospect of interest for the Wildcats. While he does not have an offer he apparently ranks highly on Kentucky's recruiting board at the position.
It was his first time meeting with the current UK coaching staff in person.
"I had been to their camp but the coaching staff coming in has completely changed things," Frey said. "When I got there, the way they treated me, it felt like I was at home. It felt great when I was there. The thing I liked the most is they're on the rise. The coaching staff is bringing in a new breed of players. They're doing big things to expand football. They've got so many things going for them.
"They have this high tech performance guy that works for them and he tracks everything about your body. That was really impressive. I really like the program they have going with that. I really like that they're doing that program. It's the only one in the country and they're also building a sports science building. They're adding on to the stadium, too."
Frey met with Vince Marrow and Mark Stoops on his trip. They made it clear that, although he doesn't have an offer, he's a recruit of interest.
"Coach Stoops held his fingers an eighth of an inch apart and said, 'This is how close I am to offering you,'" Frey said. "He just wants to get to know me, which I completely understand. They sat me down and told me that they love me and they want me to be there.
"I just talked to them for the first time on Wednesday. They want to get me back down there for the spring game and they want me to go down there as many times as I can. I really like it there. They just want to get to know me and let me get to know them. I'm very impressed with that coaching staff."
Frey visited N.C. State last week and said the Wolfpack and Wildcats are his two favorites.
The Upper Arlington prospect is currently on spring break and will be in South Carolina with family on a vacation.
Frey, like Dorian Hendrix, UK's lone linebacker commit so far, plans to graduate early and enroll at a college in the spring semester.
http://kentucky.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1492045
Justin Rowland
Special to CatsIllustrated.com
Upper Arlington (Ohio) linebacker Chris Frey had been to Kentucky once before this past weekend, but his most recent experience at the school blew him away.
"It was amazing," Frey said of his weekend trip to UK. "Absolutely amazing."
The 6-foot-2, 210-pound linebacker has been rumored to be a prospect of interest for the Wildcats. While he does not have an offer he apparently ranks highly on Kentucky's recruiting board at the position.
It was his first time meeting with the current UK coaching staff in person.
"I had been to their camp but the coaching staff coming in has completely changed things," Frey said. "When I got there, the way they treated me, it felt like I was at home. It felt great when I was there. The thing I liked the most is they're on the rise. The coaching staff is bringing in a new breed of players. They're doing big things to expand football. They've got so many things going for them.
"They have this high tech performance guy that works for them and he tracks everything about your body. That was really impressive. I really like the program they have going with that. I really like that they're doing that program. It's the only one in the country and they're also building a sports science building. They're adding on to the stadium, too."
Frey met with Vince Marrow and Mark Stoops on his trip. They made it clear that, although he doesn't have an offer, he's a recruit of interest.
"Coach Stoops held his fingers an eighth of an inch apart and said, 'This is how close I am to offering you,'" Frey said. "He just wants to get to know me, which I completely understand. They sat me down and told me that they love me and they want me to be there.
"I just talked to them for the first time on Wednesday. They want to get me back down there for the spring game and they want me to go down there as many times as I can. I really like it there. They just want to get to know me and let me get to know them. I'm very impressed with that coaching staff."
Frey visited N.C. State last week and said the Wolfpack and Wildcats are his two favorites.
The Upper Arlington prospect is currently on spring break and will be in South Carolina with family on a vacation.
Frey, like Dorian Hendrix, UK's lone linebacker commit so far, plans to graduate early and enroll at a college in the spring semester.
http://kentucky.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1492045
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04-10-2013, 12:13 AM
Ohio lineman Bezney gets good vibes from UK
Justin Rowland
Special to CatsIllustrated.com
Kentucky is probably going to load up on offensive linemen in this recruiting class and the state of Ohio is going to be crucial to their efforts to do just that.
Jon Bezney is emerging as a major target that the Wildcats want to help anchor their line class.
The 6-foot-5, 260-pound tackle from Cincinnati (Ohio) Mariemont has offers from Kentucky, Louisville, Bowling Green, Kent State and Yale. The Wildcats offered Bezney when he visited for a junior day earlier in the year and Louisville offered about two weeks after that.
"I loved Kentucky," Bezney said. "There really wasn't anything not to like about it. I loved the coaching staff and I got to know the offensive line coach (John Schlarman) really well. We'll be going back up for the spring game on April 13.
"Coach (Schlarman) is a great guy. Really upbeat and extremely enthusiastic. He knows what he's talking about and he's a good leader and a good role model for the offensive linemen."
Bezney also spoke with Mark Stoops and Vince Marrow, though Schlarman is his primary recruiter.
"I got to meet pretty much all of them," he said.
While Bezney has not visited Louisville he said that he is planning to do that in the spring. He does not have any favorites and said he does not have a timetable for when he would like to make his decision.
Bezney said he did not grow up as a fan of any school in particular, but he does have a favorite.
"I think as of right now Kentucky is kinda huge for me," he said. "I would say Kentucky would probably be a favorite."
http://kentucky.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1492059
Justin Rowland
Special to CatsIllustrated.com
Kentucky is probably going to load up on offensive linemen in this recruiting class and the state of Ohio is going to be crucial to their efforts to do just that.
Jon Bezney is emerging as a major target that the Wildcats want to help anchor their line class.
The 6-foot-5, 260-pound tackle from Cincinnati (Ohio) Mariemont has offers from Kentucky, Louisville, Bowling Green, Kent State and Yale. The Wildcats offered Bezney when he visited for a junior day earlier in the year and Louisville offered about two weeks after that.
"I loved Kentucky," Bezney said. "There really wasn't anything not to like about it. I loved the coaching staff and I got to know the offensive line coach (John Schlarman) really well. We'll be going back up for the spring game on April 13.
"Coach (Schlarman) is a great guy. Really upbeat and extremely enthusiastic. He knows what he's talking about and he's a good leader and a good role model for the offensive linemen."
Bezney also spoke with Mark Stoops and Vince Marrow, though Schlarman is his primary recruiter.
"I got to meet pretty much all of them," he said.
While Bezney has not visited Louisville he said that he is planning to do that in the spring. He does not have any favorites and said he does not have a timetable for when he would like to make his decision.
Bezney said he did not grow up as a fan of any school in particular, but he does have a favorite.
"I think as of right now Kentucky is kinda huge for me," he said. "I would say Kentucky would probably be a favorite."
http://kentucky.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1492059
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04-10-2013, 12:18 AM
Tubman fourth Kentuckian to get UK offer in 2014
Justin Rowland
Special to CatsIllustrated.com
Kentucky's coaches have carefully evaluated all of the top junior prospects from the Commonwealth and to date they have been very cautious when it comes to extending offers.
There are numerous reasons for that. First, in-state recruits are more likely to want to commit early when a local school offers.
Given the number crunch, especially in the SEC with the strict limit on the amount of prospects schools can take in a recruiting class, pulling offers as circumstances change can be risky business. Especially when you don't want to alienate local schools and high school coaches.
The state of Kentucky also simply produces far less talent than other states home to SEC schools.
Before this week only three Kentuckians had received UK offers: Drew Barker, Matt Elam and Louisville commit Reggie Bonnafon.
Lloyd Tubman, a 6-foot-5, 225-pound athlete from Seneca, recently became the fourth.
"Vanderbilt offered me recently and (on Wednesday) Kentucky offered me," said Tubman, who has been committed to Western Kentucky since March.
Tubman admits there's plenty of intrigue that comes with offers from SEC schools but he's not ruling out the Hilltoppers altogether.
"I committed to them because of the coaches," he said. "I took a couple of visits down there and saw the coaching staff. I was real familiar with them so I went with them.
"Really it would be a soft (commitment). I'm still out there looking. I've been talking to different schools. I'm getting recruited by South Florida, Michigan and Cincinnati. I'm going to have to go around and see these schools so I can make the best college decision."
Tubman has already visited Vanderbilt and Kentucky. On his trip to Lexington he picked up an offer from the Wildcats.
"The Kentucky visit was good," Tubman said. "This past season they weren't that good but I can tell you that the program has some good stuff going on over there. Everything looks good.
"I like the new coaches. I play defensive end and the head coach (Mark Stoops) was the defensive coordinator over at Florida State. I'm going to be going to their camp because I want to learn a couple of things going into my senior year so I can execute real good. When I went there I felt comfortable. I met all the coaching staff and I'm just seeing what I can learn from those guys."
An excellent athlete who has been clocked at 4.54-seconds in the 40-yard dash, Tubman is interested in Kentucky. But it's the Commodores that have really caught his attention.
"Two weeks ago I went over to Vanderbilt and I'm going back over there," he said. "Oh man, I feel great about Vanderbilt. I went over there to see them practice and I was just seeing myself and picturing myself playing with them. I like the coaches over there. My standpoint is, if I wasn't there at Western I'd be leaning towards Vanderbilt."
Louisville has also shown interest but the Cardinals have not offered.
While Tubman is very familiar with Louisville because of his proximity to the school he is a native of Philadelphia and does not have any longstanding ties to any of the in-state programs. He has only been a resident of Kentucky for the past seven years.
http://kentucky.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1492640
Justin Rowland
Special to CatsIllustrated.com
Kentucky's coaches have carefully evaluated all of the top junior prospects from the Commonwealth and to date they have been very cautious when it comes to extending offers.
There are numerous reasons for that. First, in-state recruits are more likely to want to commit early when a local school offers.
Given the number crunch, especially in the SEC with the strict limit on the amount of prospects schools can take in a recruiting class, pulling offers as circumstances change can be risky business. Especially when you don't want to alienate local schools and high school coaches.
The state of Kentucky also simply produces far less talent than other states home to SEC schools.
Before this week only three Kentuckians had received UK offers: Drew Barker, Matt Elam and Louisville commit Reggie Bonnafon.
Lloyd Tubman, a 6-foot-5, 225-pound athlete from Seneca, recently became the fourth.
"Vanderbilt offered me recently and (on Wednesday) Kentucky offered me," said Tubman, who has been committed to Western Kentucky since March.
Tubman admits there's plenty of intrigue that comes with offers from SEC schools but he's not ruling out the Hilltoppers altogether.
"I committed to them because of the coaches," he said. "I took a couple of visits down there and saw the coaching staff. I was real familiar with them so I went with them.
"Really it would be a soft (commitment). I'm still out there looking. I've been talking to different schools. I'm getting recruited by South Florida, Michigan and Cincinnati. I'm going to have to go around and see these schools so I can make the best college decision."
Tubman has already visited Vanderbilt and Kentucky. On his trip to Lexington he picked up an offer from the Wildcats.
"The Kentucky visit was good," Tubman said. "This past season they weren't that good but I can tell you that the program has some good stuff going on over there. Everything looks good.
"I like the new coaches. I play defensive end and the head coach (Mark Stoops) was the defensive coordinator over at Florida State. I'm going to be going to their camp because I want to learn a couple of things going into my senior year so I can execute real good. When I went there I felt comfortable. I met all the coaching staff and I'm just seeing what I can learn from those guys."
An excellent athlete who has been clocked at 4.54-seconds in the 40-yard dash, Tubman is interested in Kentucky. But it's the Commodores that have really caught his attention.
"Two weeks ago I went over to Vanderbilt and I'm going back over there," he said. "Oh man, I feel great about Vanderbilt. I went over there to see them practice and I was just seeing myself and picturing myself playing with them. I like the coaches over there. My standpoint is, if I wasn't there at Western I'd be leaning towards Vanderbilt."
Louisville has also shown interest but the Cardinals have not offered.
While Tubman is very familiar with Louisville because of his proximity to the school he is a native of Philadelphia and does not have any longstanding ties to any of the in-state programs. He has only been a resident of Kentucky for the past seven years.
http://kentucky.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1492640
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04-10-2013, 12:21 AM
Cats pursuing Georgia commit Glass
Justin Rowland
Special to CatsIllustrated.com
In this day and age a verbal commitment doesn't always mean so much. Kentucky's new coaching staff understands that and recruits as though everyone is fair game until Signing Day.
Truth be told that's how everyone is recruiting these days. But Kentucky's current staff has been especially aggressive in continuing to target players that have verbally pledged elsewhere.
That's just fine with four-star safety Nick Glass, one of the nation's top defensive backs. Glass has been committed to Georgia for exactly one year but he has kept the lines of communication open with other schools.
Kentucky is one of the schools he's in regular contact with.
"We talk every day," Glass said. "I talk to coach (Derrick) Ansley and coach (Bradley Dale) Peveto a lot. I like them a lot from when coach Ansley was at Tennessee and I know coach Peveto was at LSU.
"(Peveto) recruited a player from my school, Kevin Minter. I don't know if he coached him or not but he's going into the draft. I've got a lot of respect for those guys. I don't know much about Kentucky but I like the coaching staff and I'm hearing it's in a great town."
When asked how solid he is with Georgia, Glass simply replied, "I don't know."
Sometimes that's tough to explain. Some days he feels more solid than others. With schools all ove the SEC still recruiting him it's tough to project what the future might hold.
Tennessee, Ole Miss, Alabama, Auburn and LSU are the other SEC schools still recruiting the Bulldog commit.
"I've been to Tennessee, Alabama and Georgia," Glass said. "And I'm visiting Ole Miss and Kentucky soon. I'm visiting Ole Miss from Friday to Monday and I think Kentucky from Wednesday to Saturday."
The 6-foot-1, 196-pound safety is a four-star prospect and ranked the No. 23 player at his position in the nation by Rivals.com. He has run the 40-yard dash in 4.49 seconds, has run a 4.12-second shuttle has a registered vertical leap of 35 inches.
http://kentucky.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1492752
Justin Rowland
Special to CatsIllustrated.com
In this day and age a verbal commitment doesn't always mean so much. Kentucky's new coaching staff understands that and recruits as though everyone is fair game until Signing Day.
Truth be told that's how everyone is recruiting these days. But Kentucky's current staff has been especially aggressive in continuing to target players that have verbally pledged elsewhere.
That's just fine with four-star safety Nick Glass, one of the nation's top defensive backs. Glass has been committed to Georgia for exactly one year but he has kept the lines of communication open with other schools.
Kentucky is one of the schools he's in regular contact with.
"We talk every day," Glass said. "I talk to coach (Derrick) Ansley and coach (Bradley Dale) Peveto a lot. I like them a lot from when coach Ansley was at Tennessee and I know coach Peveto was at LSU.
"(Peveto) recruited a player from my school, Kevin Minter. I don't know if he coached him or not but he's going into the draft. I've got a lot of respect for those guys. I don't know much about Kentucky but I like the coaching staff and I'm hearing it's in a great town."
When asked how solid he is with Georgia, Glass simply replied, "I don't know."
Sometimes that's tough to explain. Some days he feels more solid than others. With schools all ove the SEC still recruiting him it's tough to project what the future might hold.
Tennessee, Ole Miss, Alabama, Auburn and LSU are the other SEC schools still recruiting the Bulldog commit.
"I've been to Tennessee, Alabama and Georgia," Glass said. "And I'm visiting Ole Miss and Kentucky soon. I'm visiting Ole Miss from Friday to Monday and I think Kentucky from Wednesday to Saturday."
The 6-foot-1, 196-pound safety is a four-star prospect and ranked the No. 23 player at his position in the nation by Rivals.com. He has run the 40-yard dash in 4.49 seconds, has run a 4.12-second shuttle has a registered vertical leap of 35 inches.
http://kentucky.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1492752
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04-10-2013, 12:26 AM
McWilson happy to be focused on UK, not recruitment
Justin Rowland
Special to CatsIllustrated.com
Marcus McWilson signed his letter of intent with Kentucky two months ago. He's happy to have turned the page from that stage in his life.
It's not that the recruiting process was an altogether bad experience for the four-star safety. It was just hectic. Then there was the pressure. Lots of it.
McWilson was one of Nebraska's early commits and was presumed to be Lincoln-bound. That was until Kentucky came after him closer to Signing Day. He wanted to keep everything close to the vest and understandably so. When he was ready he finally announced his decision to decommit from Nebraska. He committed to the Wildcats shortly after that.
That decision made the Kentucky coaching staff very happy, giving them their first major win with a high school prospect. The Nebraska coaches and fans? Not so much.
"It's definitely been good to move on," McWilson said this week. "All the phone calls got ridiculous. It's good to get some breathing room. I'm pretty glad to have it behind me."
McWilson has plenty of breathing room now. He and some friends from Youngstown (Ohio) Cardinal Mooney are using their spring break this week as an opportunity to spend some time down in sunny Florida.
After that he turns his attention to track, where he will compete in several events: The 100, 200, 4 x 100 and 4 x 200.
He stays in good contact with the Kentucky coaches but there's not the sense of urgency there was before.
"I'm still keeping in touch with them every time I can but I'm keeping busy with school," he said. "It's not as much as it was before. I talk to coach (Derrick) Ansley, coach (Bradley Dale) Peveto, coach (Mark) Stoops and coach (Vince) Marrow.
"I should be going down for the spring game. I'll be back (in Ohio) on Sunday from spring break so I should be able to head down for that."
The coaches haven't talked about the depth chart too much but McWilson has done his own research.
"They've got a freshman and a sophomore that didn't play too much. There's a junior that will be a senior and he was showing me some stuff when I was down there. I know I'm going to be competing when I get down there," he said.
McWilson is a unique recruit for Kentucky. Stoops and Marrow obviously have strong ties to the Youngstown area, and while that's a region the Wildcats haven't had success in over the years there's the hope that McWilson could propel Kentucky to future success, especially at Cardinal Mooney.
There's a chance he could be reunited with a former teammate: Braylon Heard.
"When I was a freshman he was a senior," McWilson said. "He ran track with my brother so I know him and I talked to him when he came back to Mooney recently. He talked to some of the coaches and the other guys. I don't want to try to influence his decision in any way or put any pressure on him because I didn't want any pressure myself."
And now he's glad to have all that pressure behind him.
http://kentucky.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1492763
Justin Rowland
Special to CatsIllustrated.com
Marcus McWilson signed his letter of intent with Kentucky two months ago. He's happy to have turned the page from that stage in his life.
It's not that the recruiting process was an altogether bad experience for the four-star safety. It was just hectic. Then there was the pressure. Lots of it.
McWilson was one of Nebraska's early commits and was presumed to be Lincoln-bound. That was until Kentucky came after him closer to Signing Day. He wanted to keep everything close to the vest and understandably so. When he was ready he finally announced his decision to decommit from Nebraska. He committed to the Wildcats shortly after that.
That decision made the Kentucky coaching staff very happy, giving them their first major win with a high school prospect. The Nebraska coaches and fans? Not so much.
"It's definitely been good to move on," McWilson said this week. "All the phone calls got ridiculous. It's good to get some breathing room. I'm pretty glad to have it behind me."
McWilson has plenty of breathing room now. He and some friends from Youngstown (Ohio) Cardinal Mooney are using their spring break this week as an opportunity to spend some time down in sunny Florida.
After that he turns his attention to track, where he will compete in several events: The 100, 200, 4 x 100 and 4 x 200.
He stays in good contact with the Kentucky coaches but there's not the sense of urgency there was before.
"I'm still keeping in touch with them every time I can but I'm keeping busy with school," he said. "It's not as much as it was before. I talk to coach (Derrick) Ansley, coach (Bradley Dale) Peveto, coach (Mark) Stoops and coach (Vince) Marrow.
"I should be going down for the spring game. I'll be back (in Ohio) on Sunday from spring break so I should be able to head down for that."
The coaches haven't talked about the depth chart too much but McWilson has done his own research.
"They've got a freshman and a sophomore that didn't play too much. There's a junior that will be a senior and he was showing me some stuff when I was down there. I know I'm going to be competing when I get down there," he said.
McWilson is a unique recruit for Kentucky. Stoops and Marrow obviously have strong ties to the Youngstown area, and while that's a region the Wildcats haven't had success in over the years there's the hope that McWilson could propel Kentucky to future success, especially at Cardinal Mooney.
There's a chance he could be reunited with a former teammate: Braylon Heard.
"When I was a freshman he was a senior," McWilson said. "He ran track with my brother so I know him and I talked to him when he came back to Mooney recently. He talked to some of the coaches and the other guys. I don't want to try to influence his decision in any way or put any pressure on him because I didn't want any pressure myself."
And now he's glad to have all that pressure behind him.
http://kentucky.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1492763
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04-10-2013, 12:31 AM
Indiana athlete likes Kentucky, Ohio schools
Justin Rowland
Special to CatsIllustrated.com
Lonnie Johnson is one of the most highly-regarded prospects in Indiana and the near four-star prospect has put together a nice offer list. He has a few favorites in mind.
Kentucky has always been near the top of Johnson's list. At least since Mark Stoops and Kentucky's new coaching staff arrived.
Vince Marrow may primarily recruit in Ohio but he's also doing serious work in other states, including Indiana. Marrow is one reason Johnson has some serious interest in the Wildcats.
"I talk to Coach Marrow and I talk to basically the whole staff," Johnson said. "I'm trying to visit as soon as possible. I'm going to try to get there in the spring but I might have to go in the summer. I'm not sure yet but I've been talking to them a lot.
"They told me I'm one of their biggest priorities and they're telling me I'll be a big-time player there at Kentucky. I would have a chance to start as a true freshman. They're just telling me that Kentucky would be the best place for me to go. They sling the ball around and that's a plus for them."
The 6-foot-3, 180-pound prospect, ranked the No. 36 athlete in the nation, is likely a wide receiver at the college level. He claims offers from Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, Cincinnati, Nebraska and Ohio State, but just three of those schools are at the front of his mind.
Kentucky is one of them.
"Kentucky has been moving up since they started talking to me. They've moved up a lot. I've got a whole lot of interest in Kentucky. I've got three (favorites) so far. Kentucky, Cincinnati and O-State," Johnson said.
"O-State" refers to the Buckeyes, who have been recruiting Johnson for quite some time. When Cats Illustrated caught up with Johnson back in February he listed Kentucky and Ohio State as his co-favorites, but he said that he expected the Wildcats to take the lead "one (he) finds out a little more about Kentucky."
The next big step for Johnson will be taking a visit to Lexington. That will have to wait a little while.
Johnson is planning to visit Ohio State on Friday and then Indiana on April 13, the date of the Kentucky spring game.
"If I could get down to Kentucky that would be sweet. I'm thinking I'm going to visit Cincinnati soon since I'll already be in Ohio, I might as well make it over there as well. It's not that far from Ohio State," he said.
Johnson said he would like to make an early decision but he wants to take at least some of his official visits so he will be waiting at least a few more months.
http://kentucky.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1493001
Justin Rowland
Special to CatsIllustrated.com
Lonnie Johnson is one of the most highly-regarded prospects in Indiana and the near four-star prospect has put together a nice offer list. He has a few favorites in mind.
Kentucky has always been near the top of Johnson's list. At least since Mark Stoops and Kentucky's new coaching staff arrived.
Vince Marrow may primarily recruit in Ohio but he's also doing serious work in other states, including Indiana. Marrow is one reason Johnson has some serious interest in the Wildcats.
"I talk to Coach Marrow and I talk to basically the whole staff," Johnson said. "I'm trying to visit as soon as possible. I'm going to try to get there in the spring but I might have to go in the summer. I'm not sure yet but I've been talking to them a lot.
"They told me I'm one of their biggest priorities and they're telling me I'll be a big-time player there at Kentucky. I would have a chance to start as a true freshman. They're just telling me that Kentucky would be the best place for me to go. They sling the ball around and that's a plus for them."
The 6-foot-3, 180-pound prospect, ranked the No. 36 athlete in the nation, is likely a wide receiver at the college level. He claims offers from Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, Cincinnati, Nebraska and Ohio State, but just three of those schools are at the front of his mind.
Kentucky is one of them.
"Kentucky has been moving up since they started talking to me. They've moved up a lot. I've got a whole lot of interest in Kentucky. I've got three (favorites) so far. Kentucky, Cincinnati and O-State," Johnson said.
"O-State" refers to the Buckeyes, who have been recruiting Johnson for quite some time. When Cats Illustrated caught up with Johnson back in February he listed Kentucky and Ohio State as his co-favorites, but he said that he expected the Wildcats to take the lead "one (he) finds out a little more about Kentucky."
The next big step for Johnson will be taking a visit to Lexington. That will have to wait a little while.
Johnson is planning to visit Ohio State on Friday and then Indiana on April 13, the date of the Kentucky spring game.
"If I could get down to Kentucky that would be sweet. I'm thinking I'm going to visit Cincinnati soon since I'll already be in Ohio, I might as well make it over there as well. It's not that far from Ohio State," he said.
Johnson said he would like to make an early decision but he wants to take at least some of his official visits so he will be waiting at least a few more months.
http://kentucky.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1493001
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04-10-2013, 12:34 AM
No longer a UGA commit, Williams says UK in mix
Justin Rowland
Special to CatsIllustrated.com
Bethlehem (Ga.) George Walton Academy running back Stanley Williams recently backed out of his verbal pledge to Georgia and now he's open to several other SEC schools.
Kentucky, South Carolina, Auburn, Alabama, Georgia and Tennessee are the schools out of the SEC that the four-star back has been in contact with lately. Clemson and others are also involved.
The 5-foot-8, 185-pound back is one of Kentucky's top targets in the offensive backfield, in large part because of his speed. He has been clocked at 4.39 seconds in the 40-yard dash and has a 3.91-second shuttle time.
"I'm just pretty much at ease right now," Williams said. "I'm just taking it slow now and seeing what happens."
UK assistant coach Bradley Dale Peveto speaks with Williams on a weekly basis.
"I just know that they're rebuilding this year. I haven't seen anything up there yet or taken a visit. Hopefully I'll be able to take a visit to maybe find out more soon," he said. "I don't have anything set right now though. I'm just trying to do everything I can academically to make sure I start off on the right foot going into my senior year.
"I just want a place I can call home. Somewhere I know I'll get a good education and where I know I'll have a good football career. Being able to play early as long as I work hard is good too."
Williams did say that he has noticed the size and passion of the Big Blue Nation on Twitter.
"That's one of the best fan bases I've seen," he said with a laugh.
Williams had just more than 200 carries for 1,948 yards and 24 touchdowns as a junior last year.
http://kentucky.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1493129
Justin Rowland
Special to CatsIllustrated.com
Bethlehem (Ga.) George Walton Academy running back Stanley Williams recently backed out of his verbal pledge to Georgia and now he's open to several other SEC schools.
Kentucky, South Carolina, Auburn, Alabama, Georgia and Tennessee are the schools out of the SEC that the four-star back has been in contact with lately. Clemson and others are also involved.
The 5-foot-8, 185-pound back is one of Kentucky's top targets in the offensive backfield, in large part because of his speed. He has been clocked at 4.39 seconds in the 40-yard dash and has a 3.91-second shuttle time.
"I'm just pretty much at ease right now," Williams said. "I'm just taking it slow now and seeing what happens."
UK assistant coach Bradley Dale Peveto speaks with Williams on a weekly basis.
"I just know that they're rebuilding this year. I haven't seen anything up there yet or taken a visit. Hopefully I'll be able to take a visit to maybe find out more soon," he said. "I don't have anything set right now though. I'm just trying to do everything I can academically to make sure I start off on the right foot going into my senior year.
"I just want a place I can call home. Somewhere I know I'll get a good education and where I know I'll have a good football career. Being able to play early as long as I work hard is good too."
Williams did say that he has noticed the size and passion of the Big Blue Nation on Twitter.
"That's one of the best fan bases I've seen," he said with a laugh.
Williams had just more than 200 carries for 1,948 yards and 24 touchdowns as a junior last year.
http://kentucky.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1493129
[SIGPIC][/SIGPIC]
LOSERS QUIT WHEN THEY'RE TIRED, WINNERS QUIT WHEN THEY HAVE WON
LOSERS QUIT WHEN THEY'RE TIRED, WINNERS QUIT WHEN THEY HAVE WON
04-10-2013, 12:38 AM
Cats offer St. Louis defensive tackle Watts
Justin Rowland
Special to CatsIllustrated.com
Kentucky's recruiting strategy may focus more attention on some states than others but the Wildcats are showing they are willing to break new ground when the opportunity arises.
Missouri will not be a big part of the Wildcats' overall recruiting strategy but the state is closer to Kentucky than many other SEC states. It also has two big talent bases; St. Louis in the eastern part of the state, and Kansas City in the west.
St. Louis (Mo.) Christian Brothers College is home to defensive tackle Armon Watts, an under the radar lineman with offers from Ball State and Idaho, in addition to Kentucky. While most of the prospects with Kentucky offers have lengthy offer sheets, UK has also started to identify some sleepers.
At 6-foot-5 and 274-pounds, Watts has the build and skill set to play on either side of the line in college, and Kentucky obviously likes what they have seen. The fact that John Schlarman is recruiting Watts is probably good evidence that Kentucky likes him as an offensive lineman.
"I got the (Kentucky) offer last week," Watts said. "I had gotten letters from them but that was the first time I talked to them. Coach told me he talked to my high school coach earlier that day and he said he likes my film and wanted to offer me a scholarship.
"I was kinda surprised. I'm just starting to learn a little bit about them. I know about their conference and I know they've got a new coach."
Watts confirmed that he has interest in Kentucky but he's not ready to say he has a favorite among the schools recruiting him. He did say that his overall favorite is UCLA, but the Bruins have not yet offered.
There's a chance Watts could find himself in Lexington soon.
"I might go to the spring game," he said.
So far he has visited Ball State for a spring practice and he said that trip went well. Beyond that, and the possible trip to Kentucky, Watts does not have any other visits planned, nor has he seen any other schools.
http://kentucky.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1493030
Justin Rowland
Special to CatsIllustrated.com
Kentucky's recruiting strategy may focus more attention on some states than others but the Wildcats are showing they are willing to break new ground when the opportunity arises.
Missouri will not be a big part of the Wildcats' overall recruiting strategy but the state is closer to Kentucky than many other SEC states. It also has two big talent bases; St. Louis in the eastern part of the state, and Kansas City in the west.
St. Louis (Mo.) Christian Brothers College is home to defensive tackle Armon Watts, an under the radar lineman with offers from Ball State and Idaho, in addition to Kentucky. While most of the prospects with Kentucky offers have lengthy offer sheets, UK has also started to identify some sleepers.
At 6-foot-5 and 274-pounds, Watts has the build and skill set to play on either side of the line in college, and Kentucky obviously likes what they have seen. The fact that John Schlarman is recruiting Watts is probably good evidence that Kentucky likes him as an offensive lineman.
"I got the (Kentucky) offer last week," Watts said. "I had gotten letters from them but that was the first time I talked to them. Coach told me he talked to my high school coach earlier that day and he said he likes my film and wanted to offer me a scholarship.
"I was kinda surprised. I'm just starting to learn a little bit about them. I know about their conference and I know they've got a new coach."
Watts confirmed that he has interest in Kentucky but he's not ready to say he has a favorite among the schools recruiting him. He did say that his overall favorite is UCLA, but the Bruins have not yet offered.
There's a chance Watts could find himself in Lexington soon.
"I might go to the spring game," he said.
So far he has visited Ball State for a spring practice and he said that trip went well. Beyond that, and the possible trip to Kentucky, Watts does not have any other visits planned, nor has he seen any other schools.
http://kentucky.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1493030
[SIGPIC][/SIGPIC]
LOSERS QUIT WHEN THEY'RE TIRED, WINNERS QUIT WHEN THEY HAVE WON
LOSERS QUIT WHEN THEY'RE TIRED, WINNERS QUIT WHEN THEY HAVE WON
04-10-2013, 12:41 AM
UK football target Powell open to leaving Florida
Justin Rowland
Special to CatsIllustrated.com
Deerfield Beach (Fla.) athlete Brandon Powell has an open ear to the in-state schools that are recruiting him but he wants it to be known that he's open to leaving Florida.
Kentucky's coaches are hoping that's exactly what he decides to do in the end. Most of the schools recruiting him hope that.
The 5-foot-9, 167-pound athlete has attended junior days at Miami and South Florida primarily because those trips are much more convenient to make than are trips to other schools that have offered, like Kentucky, Cal, Cincinnati, LSU, Nebraska, North Carolina, Tennessee and West Virginia, which aren't so close to home.
While both the Bulls and the Hurricanes gave Powell impressive presentations he's still not sure where he will end up. One thing is certain: He's not going to discriminate against schools that aren't in his backyard.
"Location really doesn't matter to me," Powell said. "Everybody's recruiting me hard and I'm open to all of them. I'm hearing from all the schools that have offered me. They've been calling me and checking on me every week."
Chad Scott is Powell's lead recruiter from the Kentucky staff and the UK running backs coach has had plenty of success recruiting in the Sunshine State over the years, both with the Wildcats in the last recruiting cycle and at Texas Tech before that.
Right now Scott is in the preliminary stages of getting to know Powell.
"He was just talking about how he can't wait for me to get up there. They want me on campus," Powell said.
That's a trip he would be willing to take. It's just not clear whether it's more likely to be an unofficial visit over the summer or an official visit in the fall or winter. He does plan on taking most or all of his allotted official visits before announcing his decision.
"I'm looking for academics first and then the coaching staff. How well I get along with the coaching staff is going to be big and then the college atmosphere," he said.
Most schools are recruiting Powell as a running back but some have also mentioned the possibility of letting him play in the slot. He does a little bit of both at Deerfield Beach, where he rushed for 1,180 yards and 13 touchdowns last year. He also added 247 receiving yards and three scores.
http://kentucky.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1493015
Justin Rowland
Special to CatsIllustrated.com
Deerfield Beach (Fla.) athlete Brandon Powell has an open ear to the in-state schools that are recruiting him but he wants it to be known that he's open to leaving Florida.
Kentucky's coaches are hoping that's exactly what he decides to do in the end. Most of the schools recruiting him hope that.
The 5-foot-9, 167-pound athlete has attended junior days at Miami and South Florida primarily because those trips are much more convenient to make than are trips to other schools that have offered, like Kentucky, Cal, Cincinnati, LSU, Nebraska, North Carolina, Tennessee and West Virginia, which aren't so close to home.
While both the Bulls and the Hurricanes gave Powell impressive presentations he's still not sure where he will end up. One thing is certain: He's not going to discriminate against schools that aren't in his backyard.
"Location really doesn't matter to me," Powell said. "Everybody's recruiting me hard and I'm open to all of them. I'm hearing from all the schools that have offered me. They've been calling me and checking on me every week."
Chad Scott is Powell's lead recruiter from the Kentucky staff and the UK running backs coach has had plenty of success recruiting in the Sunshine State over the years, both with the Wildcats in the last recruiting cycle and at Texas Tech before that.
Right now Scott is in the preliminary stages of getting to know Powell.
"He was just talking about how he can't wait for me to get up there. They want me on campus," Powell said.
That's a trip he would be willing to take. It's just not clear whether it's more likely to be an unofficial visit over the summer or an official visit in the fall or winter. He does plan on taking most or all of his allotted official visits before announcing his decision.
"I'm looking for academics first and then the coaching staff. How well I get along with the coaching staff is going to be big and then the college atmosphere," he said.
Most schools are recruiting Powell as a running back but some have also mentioned the possibility of letting him play in the slot. He does a little bit of both at Deerfield Beach, where he rushed for 1,180 yards and 13 touchdowns last year. He also added 247 receiving yards and three scores.
http://kentucky.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1493015
[SIGPIC][/SIGPIC]
LOSERS QUIT WHEN THEY'RE TIRED, WINNERS QUIT WHEN THEY HAVE WON
LOSERS QUIT WHEN THEY'RE TIRED, WINNERS QUIT WHEN THEY HAVE WON
04-11-2013, 12:33 AM
4* DE commit Denzil Ware decommitted today & said he wants to explore all of his options. As well his next commitment will be his last. He's already been committed to Florida State & UK this year, we're only in April.
Ohio TE Ethan Wolf target announced his commitment to the Tennessee Volunteers. This comes just over a week, after he missed his last scheduled visit to UK. Makes Darryl Long numbero uno as the TE prospect, but let's not throw in the towel just yet on Wolf or underestimate the abilities of this staff.
Now that Dominique Hawkins a point guard from Madison Central, has committed to UK after much support & push from the Madison County Central Board Office. UK football fans are pushing the Board Office, to support & push 2015 Stud RB Damien Harris from Madison Southern to go to UK.
Recent word from Spring Practice, is the LB position is lacking for the lack of a better word. UK's staff has basically came out & openly said that but also are looking over the JUCO leftovers for one. However, it could be an impact for the 2014 class & more specifically recent offeree Florida LB Richard Yeargin III as one of his objectives is early playing time.
4* ILB Tyrell Tomlin from Marietta, GA had a great visit to UK this week after having visits at Tennessee & UNC. Tomlin has no early favorites, but the staff has been talking to him a lot about early playing time. He's being recruited by Ansley, & has built a good relationship so don't be surprised if UK makes his first cut.
Florida LB Nico Firios the two visits he's the most looking forward to are UK & Louisville. He's watch the back & forth battles on twitter & is really shocked that grown adults would take it personal but it has him intrigued.
UK has offered 3* DE Verondtae Wilkinson from Trotwood, Ohio (Trotwood-Madison). His uncle is former Bengals #1 pick "Big Daddy" Dan Wilkinson & his head coach is former Cat Maurice Douglass. He also has offers from Bowling Green, Buffalo, Indiana, Illinois, & Toledo. He's garnered interest from Cincinnati, Ohio State, & Wisconsin. I'm sure Uncle Big Daddy is working his magic with the Ohio State staff & Douglass is pulling for the Cats.
http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/re...son-139383
Everyone has seen the interview & photo bombs. UK's coaches have at least what I liked to call "Mail Bombing" or "Mail Bombed". They have already done so with Drew Barker, & Matt Elam, both who are instate priorities. 4* Carolina WR Blake Bone is the third I'm aware of, here's what he came home from school to the other day. Either their mail bombing all top prospects or their making it known Blake Bone is a priority.
https://mobile.twitter.com/KingOfEights_...5805885440
4* WR Derek Kief from Cincinnati LaSalle has said he will not be at UK's spring game, because his mom won't allow him to go. However, I get the feeling that's a poker face & there are other reasons. None the less, bad news for the Cats if you ask me.
It has been rumored for awhile now that 3* OL Marcelys Jones from Cleveland, Ohio would decommit from Ohio State. However, that is yet to happen but the ball may get to rolling this weekend as it's not been confirmed yet but the buzz is he may be visiting for UK's Spring Game. Since reopening his recruitment, UK has been linked very closely but there hasn't really been any supportive substance to it. He shows face in Lexington this weekend, & the substance has arrived.
UK's staff has been hard at work with 4* MLB Delvin Purifoy from Pensacola, FL (Catholic) & is a current Florida State commit. UK has offered as well as Miami(FL), Ole Miss, NC State, USC, South Alabama, USF, & Tennessee. He's also garnered interest from Alabama, Florida, LSU, South Carolina, & Wisconsin.
http://rivals.yahoo.com/footballrecruiti...foy-129407
Ohio TE Ethan Wolf target announced his commitment to the Tennessee Volunteers. This comes just over a week, after he missed his last scheduled visit to UK. Makes Darryl Long numbero uno as the TE prospect, but let's not throw in the towel just yet on Wolf or underestimate the abilities of this staff.
Now that Dominique Hawkins a point guard from Madison Central, has committed to UK after much support & push from the Madison County Central Board Office. UK football fans are pushing the Board Office, to support & push 2015 Stud RB Damien Harris from Madison Southern to go to UK.
Recent word from Spring Practice, is the LB position is lacking for the lack of a better word. UK's staff has basically came out & openly said that but also are looking over the JUCO leftovers for one. However, it could be an impact for the 2014 class & more specifically recent offeree Florida LB Richard Yeargin III as one of his objectives is early playing time.
4* ILB Tyrell Tomlin from Marietta, GA had a great visit to UK this week after having visits at Tennessee & UNC. Tomlin has no early favorites, but the staff has been talking to him a lot about early playing time. He's being recruited by Ansley, & has built a good relationship so don't be surprised if UK makes his first cut.
Florida LB Nico Firios the two visits he's the most looking forward to are UK & Louisville. He's watch the back & forth battles on twitter & is really shocked that grown adults would take it personal but it has him intrigued.
UK has offered 3* DE Verondtae Wilkinson from Trotwood, Ohio (Trotwood-Madison). His uncle is former Bengals #1 pick "Big Daddy" Dan Wilkinson & his head coach is former Cat Maurice Douglass. He also has offers from Bowling Green, Buffalo, Indiana, Illinois, & Toledo. He's garnered interest from Cincinnati, Ohio State, & Wisconsin. I'm sure Uncle Big Daddy is working his magic with the Ohio State staff & Douglass is pulling for the Cats.
http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/re...son-139383
Everyone has seen the interview & photo bombs. UK's coaches have at least what I liked to call "Mail Bombing" or "Mail Bombed". They have already done so with Drew Barker, & Matt Elam, both who are instate priorities. 4* Carolina WR Blake Bone is the third I'm aware of, here's what he came home from school to the other day. Either their mail bombing all top prospects or their making it known Blake Bone is a priority.
https://mobile.twitter.com/KingOfEights_...5805885440
4* WR Derek Kief from Cincinnati LaSalle has said he will not be at UK's spring game, because his mom won't allow him to go. However, I get the feeling that's a poker face & there are other reasons. None the less, bad news for the Cats if you ask me.
It has been rumored for awhile now that 3* OL Marcelys Jones from Cleveland, Ohio would decommit from Ohio State. However, that is yet to happen but the ball may get to rolling this weekend as it's not been confirmed yet but the buzz is he may be visiting for UK's Spring Game. Since reopening his recruitment, UK has been linked very closely but there hasn't really been any supportive substance to it. He shows face in Lexington this weekend, & the substance has arrived.
UK's staff has been hard at work with 4* MLB Delvin Purifoy from Pensacola, FL (Catholic) & is a current Florida State commit. UK has offered as well as Miami(FL), Ole Miss, NC State, USC, South Alabama, USF, & Tennessee. He's also garnered interest from Alabama, Florida, LSU, South Carolina, & Wisconsin.
http://rivals.yahoo.com/footballrecruiti...foy-129407
04-11-2013, 09:04 PM
Braylon Heard has committed to the Wildcats today. This comes after his visit just a few weeks ago. Heard will have to sit out the 2013 season & then have two years of eligibility left. He was the 50th overall recruiting in his class, which may be the most touted recruit to ever come to UK, ever!!!
Also there will be another commitment on KSR at 11 a.m. in the morning. I'd imagine the recruit will be on the radio with Matt Jones, so it's likely he'll be on a conference call with KSR. An announcement will shortly follow on http://www.kentuckysportsradio.com. This is a recruit that has been expected to pull the trigger for sometime now. So it's not something that will shock most of the UK football followers, but it's always a plus.
Also there will be another commitment on KSR at 11 a.m. in the morning. I'd imagine the recruit will be on the radio with Matt Jones, so it's likely he'll be on a conference call with KSR. An announcement will shortly follow on http://www.kentuckysportsradio.com. This is a recruit that has been expected to pull the trigger for sometime now. So it's not something that will shock most of the UK football followers, but it's always a plus.
04-11-2013, 09:05 PM
Mind you, this is not an official list. However, it is a very good list and I'm quite confident in saying that. Anytime you're talking about unofficial visits [especially the same time as a big unofficial visit event at Ohio State] some things could change at the last minute, but those I'm about to mention are tentatively planning to visit Kentucky this weekend.
My understanding is most of these guys will arrive at Kentucky at 12:30 p.m. for the festivities, but Tate's Creek will have a contingent that arrives at 5:00 p.m. [except for R.J. Taylor, who will arrive with the earlier group, to my knowledge].
Note: I have not linked the profiles of prospects I have mentioned many times before, but I have for others you may want to read up on.
Let's get right to it ...
First, and arguably most importantly, there's Drew Barker. The four-star Conner quarterback will be arriving at Kentucky tomorrow and will spend the night. He will be at UK during the day on Saturday, interacting with many of the recruits below [he already knows a good number of them].
Note: To my knowledge Barker is not only still the only major UK quarterback target. He's the only one attending. There has been some talk that Gillins or Kizer might make the trip [with Gillins even saying he would definitely be there at one point], but I have it from a solid source that, as of today, neither is likely to be in Lexington this weekend. Barker alone, and he knows it.
Huge Ohio group en route
The amount of Ohio talent that the Cats expect is, in a word, staggering.
Four-star running back Mikel Horton is one of the most important recruits from the Buckeye State making the trip. But the two to keep a close eye on this weekend are Thaddeus Snodgrass and Darius West. Especially Snodgrass. All I'll say about Snodgrass ... stay tuned.
Tight end Darryl Long is another to keep an eye on. I'm not sure how quickly he's thinking about making a decision but it could be an early one and Kentucky is the front runner by almost all accounts.
The group of offensive linemen from Ohio is impressive, to say the least: Nick Richardson, Jarrett LaRubbio, Alex Dalton, Jon Bezney, Ja'Merez Bowen, Brady Taylor.
On the defensive side I'm expecting to see Tymere Dubose, that Youngstown pass rusher that Kentucky got on early. I think he's still expecting more offers so I don't expect a decision right away but we'll see how it plays out.
Safety Mike Edwards is one of UK's most important overall recruits and he's attending as well.
Linebacker Chris Frey is someone that may well commit if he picks up a UK offer and I think that's a distinct possibility down the road. He really loves Kentucky.
Class of 2015 standout George Brown, who is connected to many of the guys listed above, will also be attending. He's absolutely blowing up right now and we could ultimately be talking about a high four or five-star prospect before he's done, and Kentucky did well to get involved before everyone else.
Linebacker commit Dorian Hendrix will be in attendance as well.
Now, I have heard rumblings that Marcelys Jones will attend the spring game, but he did not mention it when I talked to him last. But he could well have been trying to keep it under the radar. And Kentucky is working hard to get Derek Kief to the event but he now may be planning to visit Ohio State.
There are some prospects from Ohio that are very promising but haven't been as discussed here.
Tegray Scales, an older teammate of Brown at Colerain, who has offers from Indiana and Louisville and is a promising linebacker, will attend. So will Trotwood-Madison three-star running back Ashton Jackson, who already has offers from Cincinnati, Illinois and Purdue.
Youngstown athlete Darien Townsend, Westerville South receiver Torrodd Carter [offer from Miami-OH]
Other top out of state recruits
Four-star running back Justin Jackson is the other big running back recruit in attendance. The Illinois native told us recently he wanted to visit Iowa and Kentucky soon, and true to his word, it seems like he will make that happen as of now. Also, offensive lineman Eric Shute of Illinois should attend as well. He's a top UK target with the Cats near the top of his list, though I know he likes NC State as well.
Kobie Walker, that safety from D.C. we've been mentioning to you, is planning to attend, and he's another top defensive back target for Kentucky.
Two more key receiver targets from outside the state that are expected: T.V. Williams of Texas and Troy Apke of Pennsylvania. Williams is a very possible potential commit down the road because of the respect he has for Neal Brown and UK's coaches that were once at Texas Tech. And Kentucky [specifically Marrow] uncovered Apke while evaluating Alex Bookser, his teammate and the offensive lineman with a UK offer.
Now, for a potentially big surprise visitor: Tre Williams, a four-star (6.0) linebacker from Mobile (Ala.) St. Paul's, ranked the No. 35 overall player in the nation, with offers from everyone.
From Florida, offensive lineman Ray Raulerson is coming up. Georgia athlete Khalia Hackett, who picked up his first offer from Kentucky [and one later from Georgia Tech] is expected as well. Another Sunshine State lineman, Andrew Harrell of Tallahassee (Fla.) Florida, will attend. Stephen Collier of Leesburg (Ga.) Lee County has a few mid-major offers and should attend, as should Saraland (Ala.) quarterback Jay Ward.
Give an award to [actually don't, that's a violation] Raheem Dowdell for making the longest trip. The athlete is traveling all the way from Arizona.
Charlotte (N.C.) Davidson Day defensive back Michael Stevens is expected but I'm not sure how much interest there is right now.
Class of 2015 linebacker Roquan Smith from Macon County (Ga.) is one of the younger guys expected in attendance. Also expected from Georgia, brothers Nelson and Dering Herring of Valdosta (Ga.).
Richard McBride and Tedarrion Myhand (sp?) are two other guys I've heard mentioned, from Troy (Ala.) Charles Henderson. And one of the top under-the-radar prospects that I expect to see is Cole Hardin, an offensive lineman from Alabama with several mid-major offers.
I'm actually very familiar with Atlanta (Ga.) Westminster athlete Cameron Seward, who has offers from the likes of Boston College, Mississippi State, Cal, etc., and I was surprised to learn today that he may well be making the trip to Lexington. He's an impressive athlete. The 6-foot-1, 200-pound prospect is likely a linebacker or a safety at the next level. I can attest, he's a high character, high academic guy that some school will be fortunate to have.
More in-state prospects expected
We've mentioned Barker, Taylor and a group from Tate's Creek.
Here are some others from the Commonwealth that will make it to the spring game: Elijah Bell (Henry Clay), Nacarius Fant (Bowling Green), DeAndre Farris (Collins), Joe Brown (Butler), Nathan Murray (Bell County), Drake Jackson and Sam Letton (Lexington Catholic), Seth Hope (Highlands)
My understanding is most of these guys will arrive at Kentucky at 12:30 p.m. for the festivities, but Tate's Creek will have a contingent that arrives at 5:00 p.m. [except for R.J. Taylor, who will arrive with the earlier group, to my knowledge].
Note: I have not linked the profiles of prospects I have mentioned many times before, but I have for others you may want to read up on.
Let's get right to it ...
First, and arguably most importantly, there's Drew Barker. The four-star Conner quarterback will be arriving at Kentucky tomorrow and will spend the night. He will be at UK during the day on Saturday, interacting with many of the recruits below [he already knows a good number of them].
Note: To my knowledge Barker is not only still the only major UK quarterback target. He's the only one attending. There has been some talk that Gillins or Kizer might make the trip [with Gillins even saying he would definitely be there at one point], but I have it from a solid source that, as of today, neither is likely to be in Lexington this weekend. Barker alone, and he knows it.
Huge Ohio group en route
The amount of Ohio talent that the Cats expect is, in a word, staggering.
Four-star running back Mikel Horton is one of the most important recruits from the Buckeye State making the trip. But the two to keep a close eye on this weekend are Thaddeus Snodgrass and Darius West. Especially Snodgrass. All I'll say about Snodgrass ... stay tuned.
Tight end Darryl Long is another to keep an eye on. I'm not sure how quickly he's thinking about making a decision but it could be an early one and Kentucky is the front runner by almost all accounts.
The group of offensive linemen from Ohio is impressive, to say the least: Nick Richardson, Jarrett LaRubbio, Alex Dalton, Jon Bezney, Ja'Merez Bowen, Brady Taylor.
On the defensive side I'm expecting to see Tymere Dubose, that Youngstown pass rusher that Kentucky got on early. I think he's still expecting more offers so I don't expect a decision right away but we'll see how it plays out.
Safety Mike Edwards is one of UK's most important overall recruits and he's attending as well.
Linebacker Chris Frey is someone that may well commit if he picks up a UK offer and I think that's a distinct possibility down the road. He really loves Kentucky.
Class of 2015 standout George Brown, who is connected to many of the guys listed above, will also be attending. He's absolutely blowing up right now and we could ultimately be talking about a high four or five-star prospect before he's done, and Kentucky did well to get involved before everyone else.
Linebacker commit Dorian Hendrix will be in attendance as well.
Now, I have heard rumblings that Marcelys Jones will attend the spring game, but he did not mention it when I talked to him last. But he could well have been trying to keep it under the radar. And Kentucky is working hard to get Derek Kief to the event but he now may be planning to visit Ohio State.
There are some prospects from Ohio that are very promising but haven't been as discussed here.
Tegray Scales, an older teammate of Brown at Colerain, who has offers from Indiana and Louisville and is a promising linebacker, will attend. So will Trotwood-Madison three-star running back Ashton Jackson, who already has offers from Cincinnati, Illinois and Purdue.
Youngstown athlete Darien Townsend, Westerville South receiver Torrodd Carter [offer from Miami-OH]
Other top out of state recruits
Four-star running back Justin Jackson is the other big running back recruit in attendance. The Illinois native told us recently he wanted to visit Iowa and Kentucky soon, and true to his word, it seems like he will make that happen as of now. Also, offensive lineman Eric Shute of Illinois should attend as well. He's a top UK target with the Cats near the top of his list, though I know he likes NC State as well.
Kobie Walker, that safety from D.C. we've been mentioning to you, is planning to attend, and he's another top defensive back target for Kentucky.
Two more key receiver targets from outside the state that are expected: T.V. Williams of Texas and Troy Apke of Pennsylvania. Williams is a very possible potential commit down the road because of the respect he has for Neal Brown and UK's coaches that were once at Texas Tech. And Kentucky [specifically Marrow] uncovered Apke while evaluating Alex Bookser, his teammate and the offensive lineman with a UK offer.
Now, for a potentially big surprise visitor: Tre Williams, a four-star (6.0) linebacker from Mobile (Ala.) St. Paul's, ranked the No. 35 overall player in the nation, with offers from everyone.
From Florida, offensive lineman Ray Raulerson is coming up. Georgia athlete Khalia Hackett, who picked up his first offer from Kentucky [and one later from Georgia Tech] is expected as well. Another Sunshine State lineman, Andrew Harrell of Tallahassee (Fla.) Florida, will attend. Stephen Collier of Leesburg (Ga.) Lee County has a few mid-major offers and should attend, as should Saraland (Ala.) quarterback Jay Ward.
Give an award to [actually don't, that's a violation] Raheem Dowdell for making the longest trip. The athlete is traveling all the way from Arizona.
Charlotte (N.C.) Davidson Day defensive back Michael Stevens is expected but I'm not sure how much interest there is right now.
Class of 2015 linebacker Roquan Smith from Macon County (Ga.) is one of the younger guys expected in attendance. Also expected from Georgia, brothers Nelson and Dering Herring of Valdosta (Ga.).
Richard McBride and Tedarrion Myhand (sp?) are two other guys I've heard mentioned, from Troy (Ala.) Charles Henderson. And one of the top under-the-radar prospects that I expect to see is Cole Hardin, an offensive lineman from Alabama with several mid-major offers.
I'm actually very familiar with Atlanta (Ga.) Westminster athlete Cameron Seward, who has offers from the likes of Boston College, Mississippi State, Cal, etc., and I was surprised to learn today that he may well be making the trip to Lexington. He's an impressive athlete. The 6-foot-1, 200-pound prospect is likely a linebacker or a safety at the next level. I can attest, he's a high character, high academic guy that some school will be fortunate to have.
More in-state prospects expected
We've mentioned Barker, Taylor and a group from Tate's Creek.
Here are some others from the Commonwealth that will make it to the spring game: Elijah Bell (Henry Clay), Nacarius Fant (Bowling Green), DeAndre Farris (Collins), Joe Brown (Butler), Nathan Murray (Bell County), Drake Jackson and Sam Letton (Lexington Catholic), Seth Hope (Highlands)
04-12-2013, 01:54 AM
QB Barker breaks down trip to Tennessee, talks UK
Justin Rowland
Special to CatsIllustrated.com
Drew Barker's self-imposed deadline for making his college decision is drawing closer by the day so each encounter with the schools and coaches recruiting him is become that much more important.
Barker has always said he will make his college decision in late April or early May, and he seems to be sticking to that timetable.
He did tell Cats Illustrated this week that the spring evaluation period is approaching and he will let schools make their case, so it wouldn't be entirely accurate to characterize his recruitment as a three-horse race between Kentucky, South Carolina and Tennessee.
"Those three are probably the schools that are recruiting me the hardest as of now but with the evaluation period starting next Monday there will be a ton of coaches coming in," Barker said. "Notre Dame called my coach and they weren't originally going to take a 2014 quarterback, but then Gunner Kiel transferred. They said they'd be in on the first day of practice. So now new schools are popping up and I'll listen to what they have to say."
Barker's recent schedule may give some insight into what he's thinking however, and there has been no shortage of speculation surrounding his every move.
For instance, when Barker decided he will attend Kentucky's spring game, rather than South Carolina's, it set off a firestorm of questions.
Barker's explanation: He's seen all he needs to at South Carolina and wants to give other schools the same opportunity to show him what they have to offer.
He was at Kentucky on Monday for the Wildcats' spring practice and it was an important opportunity to watch the coaches and how they interact with their players.
"It was great besides waking up that early," he said with a laugh. "It was definitely different than Tennessee and South Carolina.
"South Carolina was a lot more laid back, maybe because (the coaches) had been there a while. Maybe that's just how they coach. They told me it's always kinda laid back. UK is really fast-paced, I guess because that offense is fast-paced and you've got to do everything fast. That doesn't really matter to me. I liked both practices."
Barker watched everything closely, from the quarterbacks meeting to how the players went through things of the field, and the demeanor of the coaches.
"All the players I talked to said they're players' coaches," Barker said. "They relate to their players really well and their players really liked them. I thought that was a good thing. They're all behind their coaches and what their decisions are and everybody was good. There really weren't any concerns on the team. Everybody had a good, supportive mindset.
"I talked to Coach (Neal) Brown, Coach (Tommy) Mainord, Coach (Vince) Marrow, Coach (Chad) Scott, Coach (Tyler) Sargent, Coach (John) Schlarman, Coach (Mark) Stoops ââ¬Â¦ basically the whole offensive staff,ââ¬Â he said. "I talked to all of the coaches, really.
"I was in all the meetings so I was there when they were putting in their new stuff. I was just listening and watching film with the quarterbacks. I've already sat down with (Brown) before so he's already showed me the basis of the offense and we've gone over that. It would definitely be a good fit for my skill set."
Barker said he knows "a few" players at both Kentucky and South Carolina, but no more at one place than the other.
Prior to his trip to Kentucky, the 6-foot-3, 210-pound U.S. Army All-American quarterback was in Tennessee, listening to what Butch Jones and the Volunteers had to say.
"It was really good," he recalled. "I got to tour everything and went to watch their scrimmage. I sat down with their coaches for a few hours and with the players on Saturday night and we definitely had a great time. They definitely rose (on his list) a little bit)," he said.
As for Barker's decision to attend Kentucky's spring game, he said the South Carolina coaches didn't have a negative reaction.
"They were the ones that told me I needed to go see other places," he said. "They said this isn't a four year decision, it's a forty year decision. They were very supportive."
http://kentucky.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1493882
Justin Rowland
Special to CatsIllustrated.com
Drew Barker's self-imposed deadline for making his college decision is drawing closer by the day so each encounter with the schools and coaches recruiting him is become that much more important.
Barker has always said he will make his college decision in late April or early May, and he seems to be sticking to that timetable.
He did tell Cats Illustrated this week that the spring evaluation period is approaching and he will let schools make their case, so it wouldn't be entirely accurate to characterize his recruitment as a three-horse race between Kentucky, South Carolina and Tennessee.
"Those three are probably the schools that are recruiting me the hardest as of now but with the evaluation period starting next Monday there will be a ton of coaches coming in," Barker said. "Notre Dame called my coach and they weren't originally going to take a 2014 quarterback, but then Gunner Kiel transferred. They said they'd be in on the first day of practice. So now new schools are popping up and I'll listen to what they have to say."
Barker's recent schedule may give some insight into what he's thinking however, and there has been no shortage of speculation surrounding his every move.
For instance, when Barker decided he will attend Kentucky's spring game, rather than South Carolina's, it set off a firestorm of questions.
Barker's explanation: He's seen all he needs to at South Carolina and wants to give other schools the same opportunity to show him what they have to offer.
He was at Kentucky on Monday for the Wildcats' spring practice and it was an important opportunity to watch the coaches and how they interact with their players.
"It was great besides waking up that early," he said with a laugh. "It was definitely different than Tennessee and South Carolina.
"South Carolina was a lot more laid back, maybe because (the coaches) had been there a while. Maybe that's just how they coach. They told me it's always kinda laid back. UK is really fast-paced, I guess because that offense is fast-paced and you've got to do everything fast. That doesn't really matter to me. I liked both practices."
Barker watched everything closely, from the quarterbacks meeting to how the players went through things of the field, and the demeanor of the coaches.
"All the players I talked to said they're players' coaches," Barker said. "They relate to their players really well and their players really liked them. I thought that was a good thing. They're all behind their coaches and what their decisions are and everybody was good. There really weren't any concerns on the team. Everybody had a good, supportive mindset.
"I talked to Coach (Neal) Brown, Coach (Tommy) Mainord, Coach (Vince) Marrow, Coach (Chad) Scott, Coach (Tyler) Sargent, Coach (John) Schlarman, Coach (Mark) Stoops ââ¬Â¦ basically the whole offensive staff,ââ¬Â he said. "I talked to all of the coaches, really.
"I was in all the meetings so I was there when they were putting in their new stuff. I was just listening and watching film with the quarterbacks. I've already sat down with (Brown) before so he's already showed me the basis of the offense and we've gone over that. It would definitely be a good fit for my skill set."
Barker said he knows "a few" players at both Kentucky and South Carolina, but no more at one place than the other.
Prior to his trip to Kentucky, the 6-foot-3, 210-pound U.S. Army All-American quarterback was in Tennessee, listening to what Butch Jones and the Volunteers had to say.
"It was really good," he recalled. "I got to tour everything and went to watch their scrimmage. I sat down with their coaches for a few hours and with the players on Saturday night and we definitely had a great time. They definitely rose (on his list) a little bit)," he said.
As for Barker's decision to attend Kentucky's spring game, he said the South Carolina coaches didn't have a negative reaction.
"They were the ones that told me I needed to go see other places," he said. "They said this isn't a four year decision, it's a forty year decision. They were very supportive."
http://kentucky.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1493882
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04-12-2013, 01:58 AM
Linebacker Firios caught in Bluegrass recruiting battle
Justin Rowland
Special to CatsIllustrated.com
Just a year ago Nico Firios probably couldn't have imagined he would be caught up in the rivalry between Kentucky and Louisville, but that's exactly where he finds himself today.
The 6-foot-2, 225-pound prospect from Longwood (Fla.) Lyman has offers from both schools plus Rutgers, South Florida, Rutgers, Iowa State and Southern Miss, with the Cats and Cards both apparently making him a big recruiting priority.
It's easy to understand why. Already solid in build, Firios has been clocked at 4.53 seconds in the 40-yard dash and has the look of an SEC linebacker.
"I've been in contact with coach (Chad) Scott on Twitter and we've been going back and forth," Firios said. "I was planning on making a trip there unofficially over the summer, probably sometime in June. I don't know exactly when yet, though."
Firios said he's become a little bit more familiar with Kentucky since the Wildcats offered.
"I know they're pretty serious about their football," he said. "I didn't know that before. Their fans are pretty serious. That makes it fun, especially when you have an offer from Louisville, too.
"They're huge rivals and that's always fun. I didn't know how serious it was, though. (Kentucky has) a really big fan base. The rivalry is something I've picked up on. I wouldn't call it a beef but it's a huge rivalry. Some of them make it really personal almost. I think it's cool, though.
"I've watched both of them on TV and they're both great programs. I've got to see them both for myself. It's really cool to be from a completely different state and have two schools that are big rivals recruiting you."
Firios said he will visit both Kentucky and Louisville whenever he makes it to the state this summer.
He has already been active visiting schools but he hasn't left the state.
"Recently I visited USF for their junior day and that was about a month and a half ago," he said. "Also, I visited UCF three weeks ago."
No schools stand out to Firios but he did drop a hint that could give an indication of what he's thinking.
"I wouldn't say I have any favorites but I'm excited to see what Louisville and Kentucky have," he said. "Those are two big schools and I'm excited to see what they have to offer."
http://kentucky.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1493913
Justin Rowland
Special to CatsIllustrated.com
Just a year ago Nico Firios probably couldn't have imagined he would be caught up in the rivalry between Kentucky and Louisville, but that's exactly where he finds himself today.
The 6-foot-2, 225-pound prospect from Longwood (Fla.) Lyman has offers from both schools plus Rutgers, South Florida, Rutgers, Iowa State and Southern Miss, with the Cats and Cards both apparently making him a big recruiting priority.
It's easy to understand why. Already solid in build, Firios has been clocked at 4.53 seconds in the 40-yard dash and has the look of an SEC linebacker.
"I've been in contact with coach (Chad) Scott on Twitter and we've been going back and forth," Firios said. "I was planning on making a trip there unofficially over the summer, probably sometime in June. I don't know exactly when yet, though."
Firios said he's become a little bit more familiar with Kentucky since the Wildcats offered.
"I know they're pretty serious about their football," he said. "I didn't know that before. Their fans are pretty serious. That makes it fun, especially when you have an offer from Louisville, too.
"They're huge rivals and that's always fun. I didn't know how serious it was, though. (Kentucky has) a really big fan base. The rivalry is something I've picked up on. I wouldn't call it a beef but it's a huge rivalry. Some of them make it really personal almost. I think it's cool, though.
"I've watched both of them on TV and they're both great programs. I've got to see them both for myself. It's really cool to be from a completely different state and have two schools that are big rivals recruiting you."
Firios said he will visit both Kentucky and Louisville whenever he makes it to the state this summer.
He has already been active visiting schools but he hasn't left the state.
"Recently I visited USF for their junior day and that was about a month and a half ago," he said. "Also, I visited UCF three weeks ago."
No schools stand out to Firios but he did drop a hint that could give an indication of what he's thinking.
"I wouldn't say I have any favorites but I'm excited to see what Louisville and Kentucky have," he said. "Those are two big schools and I'm excited to see what they have to offer."
http://kentucky.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1493913
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04-12-2013, 02:02 AM
Barrett on Kentucky's long list of OL prospects
Justin Rowland
Special to CatsIllustrated.com
Sources have indicated that Kentucky is looking to take upwards of five offensive linemen in this recruiting class so it's safe to say the position is a priority.
Much of Kentucky's work to replenish the trenches will be done in Ohio, where many of UK's offers have already gone out.
Kentucky recently offered Ty Barrett, a tackle from Texas, signaling a recruiting approach that will involve a variety of geographical areas.
"I have actually been talking to coach (Neal) Brown," Barrett told Cats Illustrated. "You've gotta love the fan base."
Barrett has never experienced the fan base in person but he's looking forward to changing that.
"I'll visit over the summer most likely but I'm definitely visiting," he said.
Shortly after Cats Illustrated briefly touched base with Barrett on Saturday, he learned that he had an offer from Kentucky. Brown isn't the only Kentucky coach talking to Barrett.
He's also in touch with Tommy Mainord, another former Texas Tech assistant with a knowledge of the Lone Star State's recruiting scene. Barrett was thrilled by the development.
"He talked to me about the big changes happening down there and a lot of good stuff like that," Barrett said.
It's still early in the process but Barrett also has offers from Arizona State, Baylor, Duke, Kansas State, Ole Miss, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, TCU, Texas Tech, Washington State and West Virginia, among others.
While he has given a lot of thought to each of those schools Barrett said he's still entirely open-minded and does not have any favorites.
The 6-foot-4, 309-pound lineman could play guard or tackle in college and he hails from Dallas (Tex.) Skyline, one of that state's top talent-producing high schools.
http://kentucky.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1493909
Justin Rowland
Special to CatsIllustrated.com
Sources have indicated that Kentucky is looking to take upwards of five offensive linemen in this recruiting class so it's safe to say the position is a priority.
Much of Kentucky's work to replenish the trenches will be done in Ohio, where many of UK's offers have already gone out.
Kentucky recently offered Ty Barrett, a tackle from Texas, signaling a recruiting approach that will involve a variety of geographical areas.
"I have actually been talking to coach (Neal) Brown," Barrett told Cats Illustrated. "You've gotta love the fan base."
Barrett has never experienced the fan base in person but he's looking forward to changing that.
"I'll visit over the summer most likely but I'm definitely visiting," he said.
Shortly after Cats Illustrated briefly touched base with Barrett on Saturday, he learned that he had an offer from Kentucky. Brown isn't the only Kentucky coach talking to Barrett.
He's also in touch with Tommy Mainord, another former Texas Tech assistant with a knowledge of the Lone Star State's recruiting scene. Barrett was thrilled by the development.
"He talked to me about the big changes happening down there and a lot of good stuff like that," Barrett said.
It's still early in the process but Barrett also has offers from Arizona State, Baylor, Duke, Kansas State, Ole Miss, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, TCU, Texas Tech, Washington State and West Virginia, among others.
While he has given a lot of thought to each of those schools Barrett said he's still entirely open-minded and does not have any favorites.
The 6-foot-4, 309-pound lineman could play guard or tackle in college and he hails from Dallas (Tex.) Skyline, one of that state's top talent-producing high schools.
http://kentucky.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1493909
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04-12-2013, 02:06 AM
Offensive lineman Jones puts recruiting on hold
Justin Rowland
Special to CatsIllustrated.com
Marcelys Jones may be verbally committed to Ohio State but he's one of Kentucky's top offensive line targets.
The Cleveland (Ohio) Glenville Academic offensive guard told Cats Illustrated last month that he was planning to visit Kentucky. He also said the Wildcats were an intriguing option that he was giving a lot of thought to.
Now Jones is putting recruiting behind him and is obviously anxious to shoot down any speculation. That creates more questions than it answers, however.
"I'm not talking to [anybody] now," Jones said. "I'm just focused on my season. I'm putting everything as far as recruiting behind me. I'm not focused on it. I'm focused on the season."
That matter-of-fact answer wasn't just in reference to Kentucky. Interestingly enough, he applied the same to Ohio State.
When asked whether he's still talking to the Buckeyes he said the same.
"I'm just focused on the season," he responded. "I'm really not focused on any of that."
And when asked whether he's still committed to Ohio State?
"I'm putting recruiting behind me for now," he said. "I'm going to worry about all that after the season."
While Jones doesn't have spring practice the way that schools in other states do, he noted that he does have workouts. That's what he's focused on now, rather than the recruiting process.
http://kentucky.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1493892
Justin Rowland
Special to CatsIllustrated.com
Marcelys Jones may be verbally committed to Ohio State but he's one of Kentucky's top offensive line targets.
The Cleveland (Ohio) Glenville Academic offensive guard told Cats Illustrated last month that he was planning to visit Kentucky. He also said the Wildcats were an intriguing option that he was giving a lot of thought to.
Now Jones is putting recruiting behind him and is obviously anxious to shoot down any speculation. That creates more questions than it answers, however.
"I'm not talking to [anybody] now," Jones said. "I'm just focused on my season. I'm putting everything as far as recruiting behind me. I'm not focused on it. I'm focused on the season."
That matter-of-fact answer wasn't just in reference to Kentucky. Interestingly enough, he applied the same to Ohio State.
When asked whether he's still talking to the Buckeyes he said the same.
"I'm just focused on the season," he responded. "I'm really not focused on any of that."
And when asked whether he's still committed to Ohio State?
"I'm putting recruiting behind me for now," he said. "I'm going to worry about all that after the season."
While Jones doesn't have spring practice the way that schools in other states do, he noted that he does have workouts. That's what he's focused on now, rather than the recruiting process.
http://kentucky.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1493892
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04-13-2013, 03:31 AM
Matt Elam blew off UofL's Spring Game to take the ACT & hit has now came to surface that he will be at UK's spring game tomorrow.
Ohio LB Airius Moore will also be at the Spring game.
As well 2015 stud instate RB Damien Harris will be at the UK scrimmage, & spurned offers to visit Ohio State & Michigan to do so.
Ohio LB Airius Moore will also be at the Spring game.
As well 2015 stud instate RB Damien Harris will be at the UK scrimmage, & spurned offers to visit Ohio State & Michigan to do so.
04-14-2013, 08:37 PM
With all the buzz around the 50,000+ attendance, the recruits took noticed. I'd like to take this opportunity to applaud those that attended & showed that UK isn't just a basketball school, that are friends would get out to support all sports if the administration & coaches shared the enthusiasm. BRAVO!!! BBN, pat yourself on the back.
Of course in honor of the presence of 4* Conner QB Drew Barker, the crowd got the "We Want Barker!!" chant going early, specifically near the section in which Barker sat comfortably with commit 3* LB Dorian Hendrix, 4* safety Darius West, 3* TE Darryl Long, & 4* RB Mikel Horton. After the chant started, he progressed around shaking hands & encouraging the crowd to get a "We Want Horton!" chant, which the crowd was obliged to do. Horton then started making rounds with the chant going, shaking hands & it's rumored he was telling everyone he was a Cat & that he was going to announce but wanted to do it nationally on ESPN. Take it FWIW. I do know UK's staff is working hard on Horton & want to wrap this up quickly. Whether he makes a decision soon or not, is unknown.
As for Barker, the rumblings are the confidence level is now at 99.9% with him.
If you didn't know, about an hour up the road "THE" Ohio State Buckeyes held their spring game at Paul Brown Stadium. I think that was a ploy, targeted at the Cincinnati recruits that we are recruiting: Kief, Edwards, Horton, Brown & company.
Unfortunately, 4* LaSalle WR Derek Kief opted to stay home & go to the OSU's game. It is being said that he was regretful & shortly after tweeted that he didn't want to do anymore interviews about the spring game experience.
4* Carolina WR Braxton Berrios, decided to stay in the area & take in the South Carolina game, despite Barker's snub. Berrios & Barker seem to have a good relationship. However, Berrios didn't come away from the game committed to the Gamecocks. He told the school's website that he plans to visit UK this summer. UK is still in his top 3.
UK commit 4* WR Thaddeus Snodgrass played the role of Jaleel Hytchye & was all over guys like Barker, Long, West, Edwards, & T.V. Williams. In house recruiting, always help.
2015 stud RB Damien Harris from Madison Southern was in attendance, supporting his letterman jacket. Under that jacket was a UK football shirt & above it was an ear to ear grin when he walked out on the field.
2014 OL John Bezney from Cincinnati, OH was blown away again at UK and he's continuing to say that the Cats are atop his list. He visited Louisville earlier in the day as well and said that game was not as high intensity as what he saw at Kentucky.
Florida offensive lineman Andrew Harrell is hearing a lot from both Florida State and Kentucky, and after yesterday's trip to Lexington those two schools are his favorites. Both FSU and Kentucky plan to evaluate Harrell in the weeks ahead with Peveto handling those duties for the Cats.
[SIZE=2]3* Atlanta ATH Cam Seward [/SIZE]visited Kentucky for the first time yesterday and was especially impressed with the sports science presentation with Korem and the fan support. Derrick Ansley only started recruiting Seward recently so UK has some ground to make up, especially considering he doesn't have an offer yet. His favorites are currently Boston College, the school that's been recruiting him the longest, and Cal, a school he plans to visit over the summer.
[SIZE=2]2[SIZE=2]* OL Cole Hardin from [/SIZE][/SIZE][SIZE=2][SIZE=2][SIZE=2]Florence, AL is being recruited by [/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE][SIZE=2][SIZE=2][SIZE=2]Derrick Ansley & he's likely to go south to visit him this spring and watch him work out in person.[SIZE=2] He attended the spring game yesterday and said he was really surprised at the level of fan support. He's visiting Tennessee and Wake Forest this coming weekend and doesn't seem to have any favorites but it's just a matter of time until he picks up BCS offers.
[/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE][SIZE=2]Cincinnati, OH (Colerain) ATH Tegray Scales visited both Louisville and Kentucky yesterday with the only difference between "two great football programs," in his mind, being that the UK fans were "just crazy." He does not have any favorites but he really, really likes UK. In a week & a half UK[SIZE=2]'s staff will be visiting Colerain. He's really good f[SIZE=2]riends with Cole[SIZE=2]rain teammate George Brown. [/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE]
D[SIZE=2].C[SIZE=2]. [SIZE=2]safety Ko[SIZE=2]bie Walker [/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE]was totally surprised by the fan showing at the spring game. Hasn't been to many other schools but was thoroughly impressed[SIZE=2] & current top five is Kentucky, Miami, Oklahoma State, Boston College, and West Virginia, but Kentucky would be in the top three right now.
Though most schools like Walker as a safety Kentucky is actually recruiting him as a Sam linebacker[/SIZE]
Original words were we would have an announcement tomorrow. Then another report was we would have two commitments by the end of the week. One 4* & one 3*, announcing together either Thursday or Saturday. Now whether it's all three, it's unknown. It looks as if the UK spring game was a success for recruiting. STAY TUNED....
Of course in honor of the presence of 4* Conner QB Drew Barker, the crowd got the "We Want Barker!!" chant going early, specifically near the section in which Barker sat comfortably with commit 3* LB Dorian Hendrix, 4* safety Darius West, 3* TE Darryl Long, & 4* RB Mikel Horton. After the chant started, he progressed around shaking hands & encouraging the crowd to get a "We Want Horton!" chant, which the crowd was obliged to do. Horton then started making rounds with the chant going, shaking hands & it's rumored he was telling everyone he was a Cat & that he was going to announce but wanted to do it nationally on ESPN. Take it FWIW. I do know UK's staff is working hard on Horton & want to wrap this up quickly. Whether he makes a decision soon or not, is unknown.
As for Barker, the rumblings are the confidence level is now at 99.9% with him.
If you didn't know, about an hour up the road "THE" Ohio State Buckeyes held their spring game at Paul Brown Stadium. I think that was a ploy, targeted at the Cincinnati recruits that we are recruiting: Kief, Edwards, Horton, Brown & company.
Unfortunately, 4* LaSalle WR Derek Kief opted to stay home & go to the OSU's game. It is being said that he was regretful & shortly after tweeted that he didn't want to do anymore interviews about the spring game experience.
4* Carolina WR Braxton Berrios, decided to stay in the area & take in the South Carolina game, despite Barker's snub. Berrios & Barker seem to have a good relationship. However, Berrios didn't come away from the game committed to the Gamecocks. He told the school's website that he plans to visit UK this summer. UK is still in his top 3.
UK commit 4* WR Thaddeus Snodgrass played the role of Jaleel Hytchye & was all over guys like Barker, Long, West, Edwards, & T.V. Williams. In house recruiting, always help.
2015 stud RB Damien Harris from Madison Southern was in attendance, supporting his letterman jacket. Under that jacket was a UK football shirt & above it was an ear to ear grin when he walked out on the field.
2014 OL John Bezney from Cincinnati, OH was blown away again at UK and he's continuing to say that the Cats are atop his list. He visited Louisville earlier in the day as well and said that game was not as high intensity as what he saw at Kentucky.
Florida offensive lineman Andrew Harrell is hearing a lot from both Florida State and Kentucky, and after yesterday's trip to Lexington those two schools are his favorites. Both FSU and Kentucky plan to evaluate Harrell in the weeks ahead with Peveto handling those duties for the Cats.
[SIZE=2]3* Atlanta ATH Cam Seward [/SIZE]visited Kentucky for the first time yesterday and was especially impressed with the sports science presentation with Korem and the fan support. Derrick Ansley only started recruiting Seward recently so UK has some ground to make up, especially considering he doesn't have an offer yet. His favorites are currently Boston College, the school that's been recruiting him the longest, and Cal, a school he plans to visit over the summer.
[SIZE=2]2[SIZE=2]* OL Cole Hardin from [/SIZE][/SIZE][SIZE=2][SIZE=2][SIZE=2]Florence, AL is being recruited by [/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE][SIZE=2][SIZE=2][SIZE=2]Derrick Ansley & he's likely to go south to visit him this spring and watch him work out in person.[SIZE=2] He attended the spring game yesterday and said he was really surprised at the level of fan support. He's visiting Tennessee and Wake Forest this coming weekend and doesn't seem to have any favorites but it's just a matter of time until he picks up BCS offers.
[/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE][SIZE=2]Cincinnati, OH (Colerain) ATH Tegray Scales visited both Louisville and Kentucky yesterday with the only difference between "two great football programs," in his mind, being that the UK fans were "just crazy." He does not have any favorites but he really, really likes UK. In a week & a half UK[SIZE=2]'s staff will be visiting Colerain. He's really good f[SIZE=2]riends with Cole[SIZE=2]rain teammate George Brown. [/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE]
D[SIZE=2].C[SIZE=2]. [SIZE=2]safety Ko[SIZE=2]bie Walker [/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE]was totally surprised by the fan showing at the spring game. Hasn't been to many other schools but was thoroughly impressed[SIZE=2] & current top five is Kentucky, Miami, Oklahoma State, Boston College, and West Virginia, but Kentucky would be in the top three right now.
Though most schools like Walker as a safety Kentucky is actually recruiting him as a Sam linebacker[/SIZE]
Original words were we would have an announcement tomorrow. Then another report was we would have two commitments by the end of the week. One 4* & one 3*, announcing together either Thursday or Saturday. Now whether it's all three, it's unknown. It looks as if the UK spring game was a success for recruiting. STAY TUNED....
04-14-2013, 09:01 PM
The two aforementioned joint announcement to be is West Chester 4* RB Mikel Horton & Winton Woods 3* DB Mike Edwards. The decisions will likely be made public on Thursday or Saturday. Details are being arranged but have not been set yet.[SIZE=2] Both he and Edwards have considered many of the same schools over the course of the recruiting process and they have come to the conclusion that the timing is right for them to put the process behind them. Both Horton and Edwards attended the Kentucky spring game on Saturday.[/SIZE]
04-15-2013, 01:06 AM
Georgia recruitKhalia Hackett was blown away by his trip to Kentucky and said the Wildcats are currently his leader. He will take an official visit to Kentucky in the fall. Hackett also has offers from Georgia Tech and Troy. The only potential sticking point is UK wants him as a linebacker while GT and Troy like him at safety, and he prefers the secondary. But his parents visited Lexington with him this week and they loved it, too.
Offensive lineman Brady Taylor of Ohio, someone the coaches really like a lot, & Kentucky is number one on his list[SIZE=2]. He plans to make a decision by the end of the spring evaluation period. He's also considering Michigan State and Boston College but the Wildcats have a very big lead.[/SIZE]
201[SIZE=2]5 [SIZE=2]OL/TE George Brown from Colerain was[SIZE=2] with a[/SIZE][/SIZE] ton of his close friends in Lexington, who also happen to be some of the top junior recruits from the Buckeye State. Kentucky is in outstanding shape with Brown early, and the Cats' position will only improve as the commitments from Ohio pile up. He loves Kentucky and is building relationships with Schlarman. FWIW, he's become tight with Matt Elam in addition to all the Ohio guys. [/SIZE]He's currently repping UK to other recruits on twitter, & has the ability to be another catalyst self-recruiting guy. He's also a cousin of Mike Edwards, whom is likely to commit to UK by the week's end.
Offensive lineman Brady Taylor of Ohio, someone the coaches really like a lot, & Kentucky is number one on his list[SIZE=2]. He plans to make a decision by the end of the spring evaluation period. He's also considering Michigan State and Boston College but the Wildcats have a very big lead.[/SIZE]
201[SIZE=2]5 [SIZE=2]OL/TE George Brown from Colerain was[SIZE=2] with a[/SIZE][/SIZE] ton of his close friends in Lexington, who also happen to be some of the top junior recruits from the Buckeye State. Kentucky is in outstanding shape with Brown early, and the Cats' position will only improve as the commitments from Ohio pile up. He loves Kentucky and is building relationships with Schlarman. FWIW, he's become tight with Matt Elam in addition to all the Ohio guys. [/SIZE]He's currently repping UK to other recruits on twitter, & has the ability to be another catalyst self-recruiting guy. He's also a cousin of Mike Edwards, whom is likely to commit to UK by the week's end.
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