[jwinslow]

It's remarkable how many of the "missed targets" by JT have already proven to be headaches... here's another we probably are better off not having:

Mathis makes grade for college football
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By DUANE RANKIN
duane.rankin@timesnews.com

A relieved Andre Mathis now focuses on college life instead of wondering whether he'll qualify academically to play football for the University of Tennessee.

Recruiting coordinator Greg Adkins comfirmed that Mathis, a standout linebacker at Cathedral Prep, made it through the NCAA Clearinghouse to gain eligibility for the upcoming football season.

"All the stress is off my shoulders," Mathis said.

Mathis, 18, said he was cleared July 1 and has been on campus taking summer school courses since Tuesday. A 6-foot-2, 237-pound linebacker, Mathis arrived in Knoxville a week ago today.

With a 2.86 grade-point average, Mathis scored a 790 on the Scholastic Aptitude Test to become eligible.

Now 596 miles from his hometown of Erie, Mathis lives the furthest north of any player Tennessee signed Feb. 2. He's part of a recruiting class ranked first nationally on Sport Illustrated's Web site, www.si.com.

Mathis was a first-team Class AAAA all-state selection after making 85 tackles his senior season. He forced three fumbles, had three fumble recoveries and posted 1 ½sacks. Mathis also caught 13 passes for 220 yards and four touchdowns.

A PrepStar All-American, Mathis said he'd rather play this season than be redshirted, but isn't against sitting out his first year at Tennessee.

"I'm just trying to pass my classes and have a chance to play linebacker this year," Mathis said. "If I don't play linebacker, I want to play special teams. I'll redshirt so I can get more experience, but I would like to play."

Tennessee's season opener is a Sept. 3 home game against Alabama-Birmingham.