Big Ten
By BJ Bennett
SouthernPigskin.com
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Days away from National Signing Day, some of the south’s top prospects have yet to decide. Here is a look at ten elite players who will make their college decisions in the coming days.
Stephone Anthony, LB, Wadesboro, NC
This physical linebacker from North Carolina might be the nation’s top outsider linebacker. Athletically, Anthony is ready for big-time college football. He gets a great burst off the snap and can chase down fleeing tailbacks across the field.
List — Clemson, Florida, North Carolina, NC State, Virginia Tech
Jadeveon Clowney, DE, Rock Hill, SC
The nation’s top prospect, Clowney says he’s not close to a decision and may not sign, ala Ohio State quarterback Terrelle Pryor, until after National Signing Day. Some feel he is a South Carolina lean, but the 6’6”, 250 pound end has played it close to the vest.
List — Alabama, Clemson, Florida State, South Carolina
Isaiah Crowell, RB, Columbus, GA
The nation’s top tailback has SEC fans thinking Marcus Lattimore-type production in year one. The powerful runner will pick between Alabama, Auburn and Georgia and some feel the Bulldogs are the favorite as Mark Richt looks to complete his in-state “dream team”.
List — Alabama, Auburn, Georgia
Ray Drew, DE, Thomasville, GA
Active and athletic, Drew could play along the interior or off the edge in college. He has the frame to add more bulk to his body. His mobility and ability to move along the line of scrimmage might be his best asset. Some feel UGA may be the team to beat here too.
List — Auburn, Clemson, LSU, Georgia, Tennessee
Curtis Grant, LB, Richmond, VA
Has improved his stock this winter with his performances in workouts and all-star games. Grant is a quick, athletic linebacker who seems to have a knack for being in the right place at the right time on the field. He could leave the region.
List — Florida, Michigan, North Carolina, Ohio State, Virginia
Tim Jernigan, DT, Lakeland, FL
Strong interior lineman has proven himself against the best of the best in central Florida. Jernigan may need to bulk up some, but his quickness make him tough to block and therefore contain in the trenches. Has a low center of gravity.
List — Alabama, Florida, Florida State, LSU, Michigan
Cyrus Kouiandjio, OT, Hyattsville, MD
The top offensive lineman in high school football looks like a college veteran now. He is play-ready at 6’7”, 325 pounds and will physically be able to hold his own with most from day one. Plays with a noticable toughness.
List – Alabama, Auburn, Iowa
Nick O’Leary, TE, Palm Beach Gardens, FL
This elite tight end stands alongside UGA-verbal Jay Rome as the best at his position in high school football. O’Leary has a good, solid build at 6’4”, 230 and is a reliable pass-catcher in coverage. Some think he stays in state.
List — Alabama, Florida State, LSU, Miami
Tony Steward, LB, St. Augustine, FL
Versatile linebacker who can play inside or outside. Steward has long been one of the nation’s top prospects. His speed, quickness and agility in the open field help him make plays a variety of different ways. May stay in the Sunshine State.
List – Auburn, Clemson, Florida, Florida State, UCLA
Gabe Wright, DT, Columbus, GA
Isaiah Crowell’s teammate is the defensive-side of the top one-two tandem in high school football. Is big and strong with the potential of becoming a consistent interior anchor for a college team. Is already near 290 pounds.
List — Auburn, Alabama, Clemson, Georgia, Tennessee
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