3yardsandacloud
Administrator Emeritus
<font color="#b90000">Tuesday, January 18, 2005</font> Recruiting News - 01/18/05
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TD Club hands out awards (Alex Boone, Freddie Lenix, Jamario O'Neal) - Cleveland Plain Dealer
TD Club hands out awards
Tuesday, January 18, 2005
From staff reports
The Cleveland Touchdown Club honored a number of Northeast Ohio residents Monday night during the group's 57th annual awards banquet at the Sheraton City Centre in downtown Cleveland.
Judge Dick Ambrose, a former Browns linebacker, was the guest speaker. Dan Coughlin of WJW Ch. 8 was the master of ceremonies.
Award winners included:
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St. Edward offensive lineman Alex Boone, Lou Groza MVP Award, which goes to the top area high school player.
Avon Lake running back Bobby Doyle, high school Offensive Player of the Year.
Glenville linebacker Freddie Lenix, high school Defensive Player of the Year.
Glenville coach Ted Ginn Sr., Dr. Lee and Eloise Tressel Coaches Award.
Browns long snapper Ryan Pontbriand, Doug Dieken Humanitarian Award.
University of Akron quarterback Charlie Frye, Joe Fogg Award.
University of Michigan defensive lineman and St. Ignatius grad Patrick Massey, Chuck Heaton Hometown College Award.
Mount Union College, Bob Gain Collegiate Cup.
Mount Union defensive coordinator Don Montgomery, College Coach Service Award.
Howard Eckert, Bobby Brown Officials Award.
Republic Anode Fabricators Inc., Billy Reynolds Award.
The municipal football MVPs are Marcus Bagley, Deshawn Copeland, Kevin Johnson and Robert Walton Jr.
Two on Parade team:
Northeast Ohio has two representatives on the prestigious Parade All-America Football Team.
In addition to being one of 58 seniors selected to the team, St. Edward offensive lineman Alex Boone has been named top lineman by the weekly publication. The area's other team member is Glenville cornerback Jamario O'Neal.
Both Boone and O'Neal have orally committed to Ohio State.
The Parade team was chosen by coaches, scouts, recruiters and other experts. The article will appear in the Jan. 23 issue of Parade Magazine, which is included in The Plain Dealer each Sunday.
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Final Thoughts - Midwest Edition - Scout
Final Thoughts - Midwest Edition
By Chris Pool Midwest Recruiting Analyst
Date: Jan 18, 2005
From Marques Slocum to Fred Rouse, here are some final thoughts after spending the past 8-days with the U.S. Army All-American team.
Future Star - Marques Slocum wants to play defensive tackle but he’ll be an offensive guard at the next level. The 6-foot-5, 325-pounder from Philadelphia was one of the most impressive looking prospects that I saw in San Antonio, Marques will be an All Big-Ten performer at Michigan or Michigan State.
Unmatched Work-Ethic - Future Texas defensive tackle Roy Miller had an MVP type game in the Alamo Dome and that was because nobody worked harder than he did in practice during the week. Miller is continuously looking to get better and that’s why he’ll be a success in Austin.
QB Controversy - Mark Sanchez and Ryan Perrilloux would have been the only quarterbacks considered for the U.S. Army All-American Bowl a year ago. The East had three good quarterbacks but none were near as good as last years group.
The Sky’s the Limit - Dan Doering and Alex Boone can play football as long as they choose. Both are hard workers and are always looking to get better. Having to go against Roy Miller, DeMarcus Granger and Jerrell Powe gave them a pretty good idea on where they stand as football players and what kind of work they need to do to take their game to the next level.
What a Leg! - I’ll never forget Michigan Commitment Zoltan Mesko trying to hit the scoreboard in the Alamo Dome at Friday’s walk-through. Mesko has a powerful leg and impressed everyone all week.
In 4-years I’ll be trying to get Jonathan Stewart in my fantasy football draft.
In 3-years - I’ll be trying to get Patrick Turner in the 1st round of my fantasy football draft.
Trash Talkin’ - Nobody talks more trash than kids from Miami. Let’s just say the boys from the 3-0-5 are very confident. Always have been and always will be.
What a Sight - Watching Kenny Phillips lock down wide receivers from the East during practice. Not only did Phillips defend the receivers, he didn’t let them off the line of scrimmage. He has the potential to write his name among the best safeties to every play college football.
He’s #1 I saw the top three tight end prospects in San Antonio and none were better that Tony Moeaki. The Iowa pledge had everyone’s attention because of his playmaking ability and natural athleticism.
New Position, No Problem - Ryan Bain went to San Antonio a linebacker and left a defensive tackle. Bain drew high praise from his coaches and teammates. He worked extremely hard all week and says he’ll at 35-pounds to his frame and play 3-technique for Iowa. Bain was relentless all week long. He’s definitely got what it takes to be successful at the next level.
Take your pick - DeShaun Jackson is either that good or the East defensive backs are all overrated.
Mr. Personality - They don’t come any better than Greg Paulus. Greg is a tremendous leader that had the respect of his coaches and teammates. No wonder “Coach K” wants Paulus to run the show for him in Durham.
Your table is ready #1 - Tyler Blum might play 8-man football but he proved he belonged with the big boys all week long. He played defensive end and tackle for the West. He has the frame to add 30-40 pounds and he has long arms. He’s going to be a solid football player for Iowa.
Are you kidding me? - West linebackers – Rey Maualuga, Ryan Reynolds and Phillip Dillard. All three could play immediately in college. Maualuga had the instincts, Reynolds the speed and Dillard was the total package. Don’t be surprised if you see these guys playing together in a few Pro Bowls in the future.
All name team Slick Shelley. “Dickie V” would have had a field day with this name. Slick looked just that in the U.S. All-American game on Saturday. Shelley made some very nice grabs and proved he could be a go-to-guy at the next level.
Big Country - Was there anyone tougher than Mississippi’s Josh McNeil? This kid is all about taking the air completely out of his opponent. Josh didn’t fear anyone all week. Trust me when I say that McNeil talked the talk and walked the walk.
I’m a defensive end Melvin Alaeze couldn’t be convinced that he’ll play defensive tackle in college. For every argument we had for keeping Melvin at defensive tackle, he had the best comeback… “Yea, but I’m a defensive end.” Good luck at Maryland Melvin. We hope you play defensive end but we still feel you’ll be a d-tackle.
Sky’s the limit #2 Nyan Boateng. If Nyan wants it bad enough, he’ll be a great player for the Gators. There’s no doubt that Boateng has a ton of athletic ability. He was favoring the ankle that he broke early in the season all week long but still showed flashes of greatness.
Just Plain Nasty Brian Cushing doesn’t want to make the tackle, he wants to see if can completely knock body parts off of a ball carrier. Cushing is whole lotta nasty!
Rest that Hammy! - Rashard Mendenhall was easily the best and most complete back for East squad on Monday and Tuesday but re-injured a hamstring on Wednesday. Rashard pulled the same hamstring earlier in the season and had to sit out most of the season. Here’s to hoping Rashard can rest his hamstring and be ready for spring ball at Illinois.
Hard to Believe - Jamario O’Neal was chosen to play for the East because Derrick Williams was injured. O’Neal was one of the best athletes on the East squad all week long. Jamario should have brought Freddie Lenix with him also, Lenix definitely belonged in San Antonio.
A Gamer - A college coach once told me that you have practice players and game players. The game players you just leave alone during practice because you know that they’ll show up on Saturday. Meet James McKinney. James didn’t like the whole practice idea of the Army All-American Bowl but he showed up at the Alamo Dome on Saturday and we’re still looking to see if anyone can block him one-on-one.
Your table is ready #2 - Trey Stoss. You didn’t play very much on Saturday but the Scout.com recruiting team felt that you were one of the most talented football players we saw all week long. Good luck at Iowa.
Last but not least - Fred Rouse was the most talented football player in San Antonio this past week. He hurt his ankle early in the week and that slowed him down but this Florida phenom is a serous talent folks. Here’s to hoping that Fred surrounds himself with the right people, understands the importance of education, listens to his coaches and takes his game to the next level. Good luck Fred, I can’t wait to watch you on Saturdays.
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SuperPrep's Elite 25 - Scout/SuperPrep
SuperPrep's Elite 25
By Allen Wallace National Recruiting Editor
Date: Jan 18, 2005
SuperPrep magazine's number one prospect for 2005 is offensive lineman Eugene Monroe, who was also named as Superprep's Northeast Offensive Player of the Year.
1. Eugene Monroe, OT, 6-6, 320, 5.2, Plainfield, N.J. -- Virginia commit
2. Mark Sanchez, QB, 6-2, 215, 4.85, Mission Viejo, Ca -- USC commit
3. Derrick Williams, WR, 6-0, 189, 4.4, Greenbelt Eleanor Roosevelt, Md -- Penn State commit
4. Patrick Turner, WR, 6-5, 210, 4.6, Madison Goodpasture, Tn -- USC, Tennessee
5. Kenneth Phillips, DB, 6-2, 195, 4.4, Miami Carol City, Fl -- Miami, Tennessee, Florida State, North Carolina
6. Brian Cushing, LB, 6-3, 230, 4.5, Oradell, N.J. -- USC, Florida , Miami, Louisville, Notre Dame, Boston College, Virginia
7. Justin King, CB, 5-11, 180, 4.4, Monroeville Gateway, Pa -- Penn State commit
8. DeMarcus Granger, DT, 6-2, 325, 5.2, Dallas Kimball, Tx -- Oklahoma, Tennessee, Arizona State
9. Antone Smith, RB, 5-8, 185, 4.3, Pahokee, Fl -- Auburn, Florida State, Miami
10. Fred Rouse, WR, 6-4, 190, 4.4, Tallahassee Lincoln, Fl -- Florida State, Miami, Alabama, Texas
11. Rico McCoy, LB, 6-1, 212, 4.55, St. John's, D.C. -- Tennessee commit
12. Callahan Bright, DL, 6-4, 320, 4.9, Rosemont Harriton, Pa -- Purdue, Florida State, Texas A&M
13. Melvin Alaeze, DE, 6-2, 282, 4.6, Randallstown, Md -- Maryland commit
14. Derek Pegues, CB, 5-10, 175, 4.5, Batesville South Panola, Ms -- LSU, Mississippi, Tennessee, Mississippi State
15. Marlon Lucky, RB, 5-11, 200, 4.5, North Hollywood, Ca -- Nebraska commit
16. Jerrell Powe, DT, 6-2, 332, 5.15, Waynesboro Wayne County , Ms -- Tennessee commit
17. Ryan Perrilloux, QB, 6-2, 207, 4.5, Reserve East St. John, La -- Texas commit
18. Jamario O’Neal, CB, 6-1, 190, 4.4, Cleveland Glenville, Oh -- Ohio State commit
19. Josh Portis, QB, 6-3, 190, 4.55, Woodland Hills Taft, Ca -- Florida commit
20. Alex Boone, OL, 6-8, 300, 5.1, Lakewood St. Edward, Oh -- Ohio State commit
21. DeSean Jackson, WR, 5-11, 170, 4.4, Long Beach Poly, Ca -- USC, California, Florida
22. Selwyn Lymon, WR, 6-5, 190, 4.4, Ft. Wayne Harding, In -- Purdue commit
23. Dace Richardson, OL, 6-6, 290, 5.0, Wheaton Warrenville South, Il -- Iowa commit
24. Kevin Grady Jr, RB, 5-10, 227, 4.45, Grand Rapids East, Mi -- Michigan commit
25. Rashard Mendenhall, RB, 5-11, 203, 4.4, Skokie Niles West, Il -- Illinois commit
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Will James McKinney take any more visits? - Rivals PREMIUM
January 18, 2005
Will James McKinney take any more visits?
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Sean Stevens
HuskersIllustrated.com *
Rivals.com four-star defensive tackle prospect James McKinney is back from the Army All-American Bowl in San Antonio. He enjoyed his time there. Although rated as the No. 9 defensive tackle prospect in the nation, he said that most teams are in fact recruiting him at other positions. He told us that his weight has dropped to 270 pounds and he's added an inch to his frame, now checking in at 6-foot-3.
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Is Carlos Thomas still looking around? - Rivals 100 PREMIUM
January 18, 2005
Is Carlos Thomas still looking around?
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Jeremy Patterson
Rivals100.com Recruiting Analyst *
Recently College Park (Ga.) Banneker wide receiver/cornerback Carlos Thomas committed to South Carolina, but already rumors have circulated that Thomas may not be through. Rumor has it that he could still be eyeing a certain Big 12 school, so Rivals.com went straight to the source to find out.
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Decision looming for Bemoll - Rivals 100 PREMIUM
January 18, 2005
Decision looming for Bemoll
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Greg Biggins
Rivals100.com Recruiting Analyst *
Mission Viejo (Calif.) offensive lineman Kevin Bemoll took an official visit to Oregon this past weekend and checking out Cal the previous week. According to Diablo coach Bob Johnson, Bemoll loved both visits and could decide in the next couple of days.
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Is Gamecock commit Sledge done? - Rivals 100 PREMIUM
January 18, 2005
Is Gamecock commit Sledge done?
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Bill Kurelic
Rivals100.com Recruiting Analyst *
Apopka, Fla., standout Eric Sledge committed to South Carolina over the weekend. But that doesn't mean an official visit to Ohio State this weekend is out of the question. Sledge talks about that possibility and Florida as well.
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It looks like the Big Ten for Floridian - Rivals 100 PREMIUM
January 18, 2005
It looks like the Big Ten for Floridian
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Bill Kurelic
Rivals100.com Recruiting Analyst *
Orlando (Fla.) Phillips defensive end Neal Jones was in Big Ten country this past weekend. And as of right now it appears that is where he will likely play his college football.
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New team moving in on Gwaltney - Rivals 100 PREMIUM
January 18, 2005
New team moving in on Gwaltney
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Mike Farrell
Rivals100.com Recruiting Analyst *
Long Island (N.Y.) North Babylon running back Jason Gwaltney had a great week in San Antonio, earning Rivals.com Offensive MVP honors for his East team and raising his stock even further. While he was close to a decision last week, a new team will put the brakes on an announcement for now.
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Reebok's U.S. Army National Combine in Pictures - Scout
Reebok's U.S. Army National Combine in Pictures
By Gary Housteau
Date: Jan 18, 2005
Over 600 young men participated in the U.S. Army National Combine sponsored by Reebok this past weekend. After the all-star game concluded, there was a concert by country singer Darryl Worley and while the Alamodome field was being cleared, the players began to prepare for the event. In this particular photo gallery, some of the Ohio participants at the combine are pictured and a few action photos of the combine are be included as well.
There was a rather large sampling of Ohio flavor who attended the national combine at the Alamodome in San Antonio. For many it was a first-time experience and for others it was just another chance to get their name and face in front of media members from Scout.com and others from all over the country.
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Exciting time for recruit, his mom (Lawrence Wilson) - Columbus Dispatch SUBSCRIPTION
Summary: Talks about the seven ND coaches visiting. LW is still very interested in OSU (and ND). Buckeyes still after Jason Gwaltney (OSU, USC), Kyle McCarthy (OSU, ND, Navy), Tavares Kearney (OSU, South Carolina), Walker Ashley (OSU, USC, OU, Minny, PSU)
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OHIO STATE REPORT (Maurice Wells) - Akron Beacon Journal
Posted on Tue, Jan. 18, 2005
OHIO STATE REPORT
Florida record-holder
chooses Ohio State
Buchtel product Antonio Pittman has another competitor for the tailback position at Ohio State.
Maurice Wells, who owns the season-season state rushing mark in Florida, has orally committed to the Buckeyes.
The 5-foot-10, 180-pound back from Jacksonville reportedly made his commitment in November and tried to keep it a secret.
He made his intentions public Saturday at the U.S. Army All-American Bowl in San Antonio.
Wells rushed for 3,076 as a junior and 1,908 in just nine games as a senior.
He has been likened to a Warrick Dunn-type of back.
The Buckeyes have just two tailbacks on scholarship -- Pittman, who rushed for nealy 400 yards as a freshman last season, and redshirt freshman Eric Haw.
Wells becomes the 15th OSU recruit in a class that could include as many as 20.
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St. V-M balance topples Euclid (Lawrence Wilson) - Akron Beacon Journal
Posted on Tue, Jan. 18, 2005
St. V-M balance topples Euclid
Wilson inside, Nygaard outside lead Irish to win
By David Lee Morgan Jr.
Beacon Journal staff writer
Whenever St. Vincent-St. Mary needed to establish the inside game, there was 6-foot-6, 240-pound center Lawrence Wilson. The area underneath the basket belonged to him.
Whenever the Irish needed to score from the perimeter, there was sharp-shooting junior guard Patrick Nygaard lighting it up from the outside.
And when the Irish needed someone to do both -- score from the inside and also hit the outside jumpers -- there was 6-3 guard Marcus Johnson.
All three players were solid in leading the Irish to a 75-55 win over visiting Euclid on Monday night.
Wilson led the top-ranked Division II team in Ohio with 22 points, 12 rebounds and was 8-of-9 from the free-throw line. Nygaard and Johnson scored 17 points apiece for the Irish (11-1), who play tonight in Youngstown against Cardinal Mooney.
``Honestly, we just have guys who do what they do,'' Irish coach Dru Joyce II said about his top three players. ``Pat hit his shots when we got him the ball, Lawrence was very effective playing down low on the blocks, Marcus can create on his own and the rest of the guys filled in the blanks.''
Nygaard finished with five 3-pointers.
``I don't really look for my shot but with Marcus and Lawrence down low, as soon as they start double-teaming them, they kick it back out to me and I'm wide open,'' he said.
Johnson said his game is all about creating.
``I'd rather drive than shoot the jumper because I'm a strong finisher,'' he said. Johnson finished with eight rebounds.
As for Lawrence, he never let up inside.
``It's important for me to establish my game early so that it can open things up for the rest of the guys outside.''
Euclid (6-6) has an outstanding post player in 6-4 junior forward Desmond Motley. He led the Panthers with 16 points and eight rebounds and was the only Euclid player to score in double figures. Motley scored 10 points in the first half.
``We were allowing them to get away with certain things in the first half, and Motley was making a lot of shots,'' Joyce said. ``He finished with 16 points and had we allowed him to continue what he was doing in the second half; he could've scored more.''
St. V-M led 29-24 at halftime but its defense tightened as the Irish outscored Euclid 21-13 in the third quarter and led 50-37 heading into the final period.
Joyce said another defensive key to the game was not allowing Panthers senior guard John Dickinson to catch fire from the outside. Dickinson finished with seven points.
``When I scouted them, Dickinson was their main outside shooter and he had a good game,'' Joyce said. ``I challenged our guys not to let Dickinson have a good game. We felt that if he (Dickinson) didn't have a big game, Motley wasn't going to get enough to beat us.''
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TD Club hands out awards (Alex Boone, Freddie Lenix, Jamario O'Neal) - Cleveland Plain Dealer
TD Club hands out awards
Tuesday, January 18, 2005
From staff reports
The Cleveland Touchdown Club honored a number of Northeast Ohio residents Monday night during the group's 57th annual awards banquet at the Sheraton City Centre in downtown Cleveland.
Judge Dick Ambrose, a former Browns linebacker, was the guest speaker. Dan Coughlin of WJW Ch. 8 was the master of ceremonies.
Award winners included:
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St. Edward offensive lineman Alex Boone, Lou Groza MVP Award, which goes to the top area high school player.
Avon Lake running back Bobby Doyle, high school Offensive Player of the Year.
Glenville linebacker Freddie Lenix, high school Defensive Player of the Year.
Glenville coach Ted Ginn Sr., Dr. Lee and Eloise Tressel Coaches Award.
Browns long snapper Ryan Pontbriand, Doug Dieken Humanitarian Award.
University of Akron quarterback Charlie Frye, Joe Fogg Award.
University of Michigan defensive lineman and St. Ignatius grad Patrick Massey, Chuck Heaton Hometown College Award.
Mount Union College, Bob Gain Collegiate Cup.
Mount Union defensive coordinator Don Montgomery, College Coach Service Award.
Howard Eckert, Bobby Brown Officials Award.
Republic Anode Fabricators Inc., Billy Reynolds Award.
The municipal football MVPs are Marcus Bagley, Deshawn Copeland, Kevin Johnson and Robert Walton Jr.
Two on Parade team:
Northeast Ohio has two representatives on the prestigious Parade All-America Football Team.
In addition to being one of 58 seniors selected to the team, St. Edward offensive lineman Alex Boone has been named top lineman by the weekly publication. The area's other team member is Glenville cornerback Jamario O'Neal.
Both Boone and O'Neal have orally committed to Ohio State.
The Parade team was chosen by coaches, scouts, recruiters and other experts. The article will appear in the Jan. 23 issue of Parade Magazine, which is included in The Plain Dealer each Sunday.
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Final Thoughts - Midwest Edition - Scout
Final Thoughts - Midwest Edition
By Chris Pool Midwest Recruiting Analyst
Date: Jan 18, 2005
From Marques Slocum to Fred Rouse, here are some final thoughts after spending the past 8-days with the U.S. Army All-American team.
Future Star - Marques Slocum wants to play defensive tackle but he’ll be an offensive guard at the next level. The 6-foot-5, 325-pounder from Philadelphia was one of the most impressive looking prospects that I saw in San Antonio, Marques will be an All Big-Ten performer at Michigan or Michigan State.
Unmatched Work-Ethic - Future Texas defensive tackle Roy Miller had an MVP type game in the Alamo Dome and that was because nobody worked harder than he did in practice during the week. Miller is continuously looking to get better and that’s why he’ll be a success in Austin.
QB Controversy - Mark Sanchez and Ryan Perrilloux would have been the only quarterbacks considered for the U.S. Army All-American Bowl a year ago. The East had three good quarterbacks but none were near as good as last years group.
The Sky’s the Limit - Dan Doering and Alex Boone can play football as long as they choose. Both are hard workers and are always looking to get better. Having to go against Roy Miller, DeMarcus Granger and Jerrell Powe gave them a pretty good idea on where they stand as football players and what kind of work they need to do to take their game to the next level.
What a Leg! - I’ll never forget Michigan Commitment Zoltan Mesko trying to hit the scoreboard in the Alamo Dome at Friday’s walk-through. Mesko has a powerful leg and impressed everyone all week.
In 4-years I’ll be trying to get Jonathan Stewart in my fantasy football draft.
In 3-years - I’ll be trying to get Patrick Turner in the 1st round of my fantasy football draft.
Trash Talkin’ - Nobody talks more trash than kids from Miami. Let’s just say the boys from the 3-0-5 are very confident. Always have been and always will be.
What a Sight - Watching Kenny Phillips lock down wide receivers from the East during practice. Not only did Phillips defend the receivers, he didn’t let them off the line of scrimmage. He has the potential to write his name among the best safeties to every play college football.
He’s #1 I saw the top three tight end prospects in San Antonio and none were better that Tony Moeaki. The Iowa pledge had everyone’s attention because of his playmaking ability and natural athleticism.
New Position, No Problem - Ryan Bain went to San Antonio a linebacker and left a defensive tackle. Bain drew high praise from his coaches and teammates. He worked extremely hard all week and says he’ll at 35-pounds to his frame and play 3-technique for Iowa. Bain was relentless all week long. He’s definitely got what it takes to be successful at the next level.
Take your pick - DeShaun Jackson is either that good or the East defensive backs are all overrated.
Mr. Personality - They don’t come any better than Greg Paulus. Greg is a tremendous leader that had the respect of his coaches and teammates. No wonder “Coach K” wants Paulus to run the show for him in Durham.
Your table is ready #1 - Tyler Blum might play 8-man football but he proved he belonged with the big boys all week long. He played defensive end and tackle for the West. He has the frame to add 30-40 pounds and he has long arms. He’s going to be a solid football player for Iowa.
Are you kidding me? - West linebackers – Rey Maualuga, Ryan Reynolds and Phillip Dillard. All three could play immediately in college. Maualuga had the instincts, Reynolds the speed and Dillard was the total package. Don’t be surprised if you see these guys playing together in a few Pro Bowls in the future.
All name team Slick Shelley. “Dickie V” would have had a field day with this name. Slick looked just that in the U.S. All-American game on Saturday. Shelley made some very nice grabs and proved he could be a go-to-guy at the next level.
Big Country - Was there anyone tougher than Mississippi’s Josh McNeil? This kid is all about taking the air completely out of his opponent. Josh didn’t fear anyone all week. Trust me when I say that McNeil talked the talk and walked the walk.
I’m a defensive end Melvin Alaeze couldn’t be convinced that he’ll play defensive tackle in college. For every argument we had for keeping Melvin at defensive tackle, he had the best comeback… “Yea, but I’m a defensive end.” Good luck at Maryland Melvin. We hope you play defensive end but we still feel you’ll be a d-tackle.
Sky’s the limit #2 Nyan Boateng. If Nyan wants it bad enough, he’ll be a great player for the Gators. There’s no doubt that Boateng has a ton of athletic ability. He was favoring the ankle that he broke early in the season all week long but still showed flashes of greatness.
Just Plain Nasty Brian Cushing doesn’t want to make the tackle, he wants to see if can completely knock body parts off of a ball carrier. Cushing is whole lotta nasty!
Rest that Hammy! - Rashard Mendenhall was easily the best and most complete back for East squad on Monday and Tuesday but re-injured a hamstring on Wednesday. Rashard pulled the same hamstring earlier in the season and had to sit out most of the season. Here’s to hoping Rashard can rest his hamstring and be ready for spring ball at Illinois.
Hard to Believe - Jamario O’Neal was chosen to play for the East because Derrick Williams was injured. O’Neal was one of the best athletes on the East squad all week long. Jamario should have brought Freddie Lenix with him also, Lenix definitely belonged in San Antonio.
A Gamer - A college coach once told me that you have practice players and game players. The game players you just leave alone during practice because you know that they’ll show up on Saturday. Meet James McKinney. James didn’t like the whole practice idea of the Army All-American Bowl but he showed up at the Alamo Dome on Saturday and we’re still looking to see if anyone can block him one-on-one.
Your table is ready #2 - Trey Stoss. You didn’t play very much on Saturday but the Scout.com recruiting team felt that you were one of the most talented football players we saw all week long. Good luck at Iowa.
Last but not least - Fred Rouse was the most talented football player in San Antonio this past week. He hurt his ankle early in the week and that slowed him down but this Florida phenom is a serous talent folks. Here’s to hoping that Fred surrounds himself with the right people, understands the importance of education, listens to his coaches and takes his game to the next level. Good luck Fred, I can’t wait to watch you on Saturdays.
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SuperPrep's Elite 25 - Scout/SuperPrep
SuperPrep's Elite 25
By Allen Wallace National Recruiting Editor
Date: Jan 18, 2005
SuperPrep magazine's number one prospect for 2005 is offensive lineman Eugene Monroe, who was also named as Superprep's Northeast Offensive Player of the Year.
1. Eugene Monroe, OT, 6-6, 320, 5.2, Plainfield, N.J. -- Virginia commit
2. Mark Sanchez, QB, 6-2, 215, 4.85, Mission Viejo, Ca -- USC commit
3. Derrick Williams, WR, 6-0, 189, 4.4, Greenbelt Eleanor Roosevelt, Md -- Penn State commit
4. Patrick Turner, WR, 6-5, 210, 4.6, Madison Goodpasture, Tn -- USC, Tennessee
5. Kenneth Phillips, DB, 6-2, 195, 4.4, Miami Carol City, Fl -- Miami, Tennessee, Florida State, North Carolina
6. Brian Cushing, LB, 6-3, 230, 4.5, Oradell, N.J. -- USC, Florida , Miami, Louisville, Notre Dame, Boston College, Virginia
7. Justin King, CB, 5-11, 180, 4.4, Monroeville Gateway, Pa -- Penn State commit
8. DeMarcus Granger, DT, 6-2, 325, 5.2, Dallas Kimball, Tx -- Oklahoma, Tennessee, Arizona State
9. Antone Smith, RB, 5-8, 185, 4.3, Pahokee, Fl -- Auburn, Florida State, Miami
10. Fred Rouse, WR, 6-4, 190, 4.4, Tallahassee Lincoln, Fl -- Florida State, Miami, Alabama, Texas
11. Rico McCoy, LB, 6-1, 212, 4.55, St. John's, D.C. -- Tennessee commit
12. Callahan Bright, DL, 6-4, 320, 4.9, Rosemont Harriton, Pa -- Purdue, Florida State, Texas A&M
13. Melvin Alaeze, DE, 6-2, 282, 4.6, Randallstown, Md -- Maryland commit
14. Derek Pegues, CB, 5-10, 175, 4.5, Batesville South Panola, Ms -- LSU, Mississippi, Tennessee, Mississippi State
15. Marlon Lucky, RB, 5-11, 200, 4.5, North Hollywood, Ca -- Nebraska commit
16. Jerrell Powe, DT, 6-2, 332, 5.15, Waynesboro Wayne County , Ms -- Tennessee commit
17. Ryan Perrilloux, QB, 6-2, 207, 4.5, Reserve East St. John, La -- Texas commit
18. Jamario O’Neal, CB, 6-1, 190, 4.4, Cleveland Glenville, Oh -- Ohio State commit
19. Josh Portis, QB, 6-3, 190, 4.55, Woodland Hills Taft, Ca -- Florida commit
20. Alex Boone, OL, 6-8, 300, 5.1, Lakewood St. Edward, Oh -- Ohio State commit
21. DeSean Jackson, WR, 5-11, 170, 4.4, Long Beach Poly, Ca -- USC, California, Florida
22. Selwyn Lymon, WR, 6-5, 190, 4.4, Ft. Wayne Harding, In -- Purdue commit
23. Dace Richardson, OL, 6-6, 290, 5.0, Wheaton Warrenville South, Il -- Iowa commit
24. Kevin Grady Jr, RB, 5-10, 227, 4.45, Grand Rapids East, Mi -- Michigan commit
25. Rashard Mendenhall, RB, 5-11, 203, 4.4, Skokie Niles West, Il -- Illinois commit
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Will James McKinney take any more visits? - Rivals PREMIUM
January 18, 2005
Will James McKinney take any more visits?
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Sean Stevens
HuskersIllustrated.com *
Rivals.com four-star defensive tackle prospect James McKinney is back from the Army All-American Bowl in San Antonio. He enjoyed his time there. Although rated as the No. 9 defensive tackle prospect in the nation, he said that most teams are in fact recruiting him at other positions. He told us that his weight has dropped to 270 pounds and he's added an inch to his frame, now checking in at 6-foot-3.
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Is Carlos Thomas still looking around? - Rivals 100 PREMIUM
January 18, 2005
Is Carlos Thomas still looking around?
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Jeremy Patterson
Rivals100.com Recruiting Analyst *
Recently College Park (Ga.) Banneker wide receiver/cornerback Carlos Thomas committed to South Carolina, but already rumors have circulated that Thomas may not be through. Rumor has it that he could still be eyeing a certain Big 12 school, so Rivals.com went straight to the source to find out.
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Decision looming for Bemoll - Rivals 100 PREMIUM
January 18, 2005
Decision looming for Bemoll
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Greg Biggins
Rivals100.com Recruiting Analyst *
Mission Viejo (Calif.) offensive lineman Kevin Bemoll took an official visit to Oregon this past weekend and checking out Cal the previous week. According to Diablo coach Bob Johnson, Bemoll loved both visits and could decide in the next couple of days.
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Is Gamecock commit Sledge done? - Rivals 100 PREMIUM
January 18, 2005
Is Gamecock commit Sledge done?
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Bill Kurelic
Rivals100.com Recruiting Analyst *
Apopka, Fla., standout Eric Sledge committed to South Carolina over the weekend. But that doesn't mean an official visit to Ohio State this weekend is out of the question. Sledge talks about that possibility and Florida as well.
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It looks like the Big Ten for Floridian - Rivals 100 PREMIUM
January 18, 2005
It looks like the Big Ten for Floridian
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Bill Kurelic
Rivals100.com Recruiting Analyst *
Orlando (Fla.) Phillips defensive end Neal Jones was in Big Ten country this past weekend. And as of right now it appears that is where he will likely play his college football.
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New team moving in on Gwaltney - Rivals 100 PREMIUM
January 18, 2005
New team moving in on Gwaltney
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Mike Farrell
Rivals100.com Recruiting Analyst *
Long Island (N.Y.) North Babylon running back Jason Gwaltney had a great week in San Antonio, earning Rivals.com Offensive MVP honors for his East team and raising his stock even further. While he was close to a decision last week, a new team will put the brakes on an announcement for now.
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Reebok's U.S. Army National Combine in Pictures - Scout
Reebok's U.S. Army National Combine in Pictures
By Gary Housteau
Date: Jan 18, 2005
Over 600 young men participated in the U.S. Army National Combine sponsored by Reebok this past weekend. After the all-star game concluded, there was a concert by country singer Darryl Worley and while the Alamodome field was being cleared, the players began to prepare for the event. In this particular photo gallery, some of the Ohio participants at the combine are pictured and a few action photos of the combine are be included as well.
There was a rather large sampling of Ohio flavor who attended the national combine at the Alamodome in San Antonio. For many it was a first-time experience and for others it was just another chance to get their name and face in front of media members from Scout.com and others from all over the country.
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Exciting time for recruit, his mom (Lawrence Wilson) - Columbus Dispatch SUBSCRIPTION
Summary: Talks about the seven ND coaches visiting. LW is still very interested in OSU (and ND). Buckeyes still after Jason Gwaltney (OSU, USC), Kyle McCarthy (OSU, ND, Navy), Tavares Kearney (OSU, South Carolina), Walker Ashley (OSU, USC, OU, Minny, PSU)
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OHIO STATE REPORT (Maurice Wells) - Akron Beacon Journal
Posted on Tue, Jan. 18, 2005
OHIO STATE REPORT
Florida record-holder
chooses Ohio State
Buchtel product Antonio Pittman has another competitor for the tailback position at Ohio State.
Maurice Wells, who owns the season-season state rushing mark in Florida, has orally committed to the Buckeyes.
The 5-foot-10, 180-pound back from Jacksonville reportedly made his commitment in November and tried to keep it a secret.
He made his intentions public Saturday at the U.S. Army All-American Bowl in San Antonio.
Wells rushed for 3,076 as a junior and 1,908 in just nine games as a senior.
He has been likened to a Warrick Dunn-type of back.
The Buckeyes have just two tailbacks on scholarship -- Pittman, who rushed for nealy 400 yards as a freshman last season, and redshirt freshman Eric Haw.
Wells becomes the 15th OSU recruit in a class that could include as many as 20.
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St. V-M balance topples Euclid (Lawrence Wilson) - Akron Beacon Journal
Posted on Tue, Jan. 18, 2005
St. V-M balance topples Euclid
Wilson inside, Nygaard outside lead Irish to win
By David Lee Morgan Jr.
Beacon Journal staff writer
Whenever St. Vincent-St. Mary needed to establish the inside game, there was 6-foot-6, 240-pound center Lawrence Wilson. The area underneath the basket belonged to him.
Whenever the Irish needed to score from the perimeter, there was sharp-shooting junior guard Patrick Nygaard lighting it up from the outside.
And when the Irish needed someone to do both -- score from the inside and also hit the outside jumpers -- there was 6-3 guard Marcus Johnson.
All three players were solid in leading the Irish to a 75-55 win over visiting Euclid on Monday night.
Wilson led the top-ranked Division II team in Ohio with 22 points, 12 rebounds and was 8-of-9 from the free-throw line. Nygaard and Johnson scored 17 points apiece for the Irish (11-1), who play tonight in Youngstown against Cardinal Mooney.
``Honestly, we just have guys who do what they do,'' Irish coach Dru Joyce II said about his top three players. ``Pat hit his shots when we got him the ball, Lawrence was very effective playing down low on the blocks, Marcus can create on his own and the rest of the guys filled in the blanks.''
Nygaard finished with five 3-pointers.
``I don't really look for my shot but with Marcus and Lawrence down low, as soon as they start double-teaming them, they kick it back out to me and I'm wide open,'' he said.
Johnson said his game is all about creating.
``I'd rather drive than shoot the jumper because I'm a strong finisher,'' he said. Johnson finished with eight rebounds.
As for Lawrence, he never let up inside.
``It's important for me to establish my game early so that it can open things up for the rest of the guys outside.''
Euclid (6-6) has an outstanding post player in 6-4 junior forward Desmond Motley. He led the Panthers with 16 points and eight rebounds and was the only Euclid player to score in double figures. Motley scored 10 points in the first half.
``We were allowing them to get away with certain things in the first half, and Motley was making a lot of shots,'' Joyce said. ``He finished with 16 points and had we allowed him to continue what he was doing in the second half; he could've scored more.''
St. V-M led 29-24 at halftime but its defense tightened as the Irish outscored Euclid 21-13 in the third quarter and led 50-37 heading into the final period.
Joyce said another defensive key to the game was not allowing Panthers senior guard John Dickinson to catch fire from the outside. Dickinson finished with seven points.
``When I scouted them, Dickinson was their main outside shooter and he had a good game,'' Joyce said. ``I challenged our guys not to let Dickinson have a good game. We felt that if he (Dickinson) didn't have a big game, Motley wasn't going to get enough to beat us.''
