Jump to content

Search the Community

Showing results for 'Quay Davis' in content posted in Texas Recruiting Notes 2021.

  • Search By Tags

    Type tags separated by commas.
  • Search By Author

Content Type


Forums

  • Sports
    • Football
    • Basketball
    • Baseball
    • Other Sports
    • 🤫$9.95🤫
    • Gambling
  • Entertainment
    • Movies and TV
    • Music
    • Hobbies
    • Lulz
    • Food and Travel
  • News & Business
    • Daily Texan
    • Cloak Room
    • 6th Street Journal
    • You Can't Sit With US
  • Other
    • Can You Help Me With This?
    • Best Buy Coupons
    • Please do this better?
    • Surly 1%
    • Purgatory

Product Groups

  • Big Donor Area
  • Buy TreeFiddy for a friend
  • Burnt Ends
    • Merch
  • Surly Horns NIL Slush Fund
  • Tailgate Donation + Payments

Categories

  • Firings
  • 2020 Hires
  • 2020 Season
  • 2021 Season
  • 2022 Season
  • 2023 Season

Categories

  • Movies and TV
  • Music
  • Hobbies
    • Video Games
  • Lulz

Categories

  • Basketball
  • Baseball
  • Other Sports
    • Futbol
  • Gambling

Categories

  • Daily Texan
  • 6th Street Journal

Find results in...

Find results that contain...


Date Created

  • Start

    End


Last Updated

  • Start

    End


Filter by number of...

Joined

  • Start

    End


Group


  1. Per Nahlin's earlier report: Conner has long been a frontman in the class in staying active in group chats and checking in on recruits as a couple newer commits have joined him in staying vocal with the rest of the class. "Charles Wright, he's a stud and a great recruiter," he said. "Derrick Harris, Ja'Tavion [Sanders]. We all text in our group chat and keep up great relationships with everybody." Besides, if it was Sanders, I would think OU would be the choice moreso than aggy. Maybe Ish? A linebacker core of Cooks and Blackwell would be amazing. If Harris can get back healthy, this would be an outstanding group. Thomas and go after Ike and it's a solid DLine--prolly better than we should be able to get. I can't see any linebackers and defensive linemen thinking wow, this defense is regressing. However, if I'm a corner, I may be researching some personnel. I'm good with Johnson and Coffey. Still need 2 true corners. On offense, we have Wright and Conner, please keep Alexis and Davis at all costs. Maybe Cain is reaching out to aggy--just hoping it's none of those already listed.
  2. I can't remember the last season where I wouldn't have happily traded our DL for Iowa's DL. I'd hold off on shitting on the kid just yet. He's a contingency plan in a year where there's a pretty dramatic talent drop off in state. JaTavion Sanders (if he plays D), Landon Jackson, Jordan Thomas - and then who? Burris and Turner both seem like guys that will end up inside. It's a very down year for depth at the DE spot. I think Landyn Watson's frame is going to be an issue even at WDE and past him it's an absolute fucking ghost town right now. There likely will be some late risers (like Terrell Tilmon if he proves that he can add 25+ (read: 40) pounds or E’maurion Banks if he can stay outside) but the Texas staff being in contact with Booker -- who if you watch his highlights is a guy who is clearly just coming in to his frame/physical development but still shows the natural ability to get to the QB-- that's all good in my book. Esp. if it's simply continuing an already established relationship. I will say that If I was Chris Ash I'd be lobbying to get Juan Davis on D from the drop.
  3. Don't forget his brother is already here as a PWO Found this recently: 2018 PWO List (Aug 2018) #96 Tristan Bennett, DL-Soph., 6-3 240, Irving (TX) Ranchview #46 Luke Brockermeyer, LB-FR, 6-3 215, Fort Worth (TX) All Saints Episcopal #79 Matt Frost, OL-FR, 6-3 265, Folsom (CA) #52 Jackson Hanna, LB-FR, 6-2 215, Houston (TX) St. Thomas #54 Justin Mader, DS-FR, 6-4 225, Magnolia (TX) #18 Tremayne Prudehomme, QB-FR, 6-1 185, Houston (TX) Aldine Davis #23 Jarrett Smith, RB-FR, 5-7 195, Webster (TX) Clear Brook #23 Turner Symonds, DB-FR, 6-0 175, Fort Worth (TX) Country Day #62 Jeremy Thompson-Sevon, DL/OL-FR, 6-2 240, Lewisville (TX) Hebron #63 Troy Torres, DL-FR, 5-11 290, El Paso (TX) Bowie #15 Travis West, WR-FR, 6-0 175, Dallas (TX) Wilson #36 Kamari Williams, RB-FR, 5-9 175, Conroe (TX) Oak Ridge
  4. IT Inside Scoop JUAN DAVISIn addition to two defensive line targets in 2020, Texas hosted one of its first 2021 commits in Everman ATH Juan Davis.Whenever Davis leaves these events to speak with the media, he doesn't say a whole lot. He loves coming back to Texas and said return trips like this remind him why he committed in the first place.The smile all his words travel through shows what returning to Texas means. Even being able to watch Texas basketball was something Davis enjoyed."It's great being on campus," Davis said. "It's really fun. I love it when I come down to Texas."Davis used this visit as an opportunity to get to know new tight ends coach Jay Boulware. Davis said Boulware didn't recruit him while at Oklahoma, but enjoyed his first interaction with him."He really loved me," Davis said. "He said when he first got here everybody had a lot of good things to say about me and he's really excited to see me."Davis said he felt at home while on campus, and isn't currently hearing from other schools.TERRENCE COOKSThe 2021 Shadow Creek LB enjoyed the "open and welcome environment" Texas put together for Elite Day."Now, I fell in love with Texas," Cooks said. "Definitely a top school if not the top school. Texas has a sense of program family that I buy into. I love my position coach, Coach (Hutzler), I love him. Coach Herman, love the recruiting department with Mr. Carrington, they do everything for me. I think in the next four years they have a great team coming."Cooks was a state champion with 2020 Texas signee Xavion Alford. If Alford speaks to Cooks about Texas, Cooks listens."Xavion is going to be in my ear," Cooks said. "I’ve played with him since middle school, actually. That’s like family. I can trust him, so I can listen."Speaking of family, Cooks connected with another Texas commit and someone who could be playing a similar position to him, New Caney's Derrick Harris Jr.Cooks knows he plans to take an official visit to Texas, but wasn't quite sure of the date. That's because he wants his visit to coincide with Harris'."My plan is to come in the spring with Derrick," Cooks said. "Whenever Derrick says he's coming, I'll be right there with him."Texas sold Cooks on playing a will linebacker spot in Chris Ash's defense, and they called him their No. 1 prospect at linebacker. Currently, Oklahoma and Washington are two schools in addition to Texas that stand out to Cooks.When it comes time to make a decision, academics will certainly factor."Academics in the biochemistry program," Cooks said. "Family and love, I want to feel like I’m a part of something and not just in something, not like a robot or a figure. I want to be a factor in this school.”From: @Justin Wells LJ JOHNSONUT made a great impression on a handful of prospects over the weekend, but Texas really moved the needle with the four-star tailback from Cy-Fair. At 5-foot-11 and 205 pounds, he's got the frame for heavy lifting in a college backfield. While he lacks the track speed of Camar Wheaton, Johnson actually is an upgrade in the other categories; drive, vision, ball skills, reading holes, and breaking tackles.Texas RB coach Stan Drayton has been a fan of Johnson, and with new OC Mike Yurcich on board, LJ is digging the Texas vibe.Inside Texas: UT has some new coaches around campus. Did you get a chance to familiarize yourself with any today?LJ Johnson: "Coach Yurcich spoke to me about the offense, and what I can bring to the team. He wants to bring physicality and mental toughness. Being smart and working with the personnel he has."IT: With your relationship with Coach Drayton, does Texas seem like a fit for your skills?LJ: "I think it would be after what they were talking about today. (Drayton) said if I come here, I could work for a spot and he'd develop me in the first year. But the life after football, that'll be huge."IT: How important was it for UT to keep Coach Drayton?LJ: "I think it's very important. He's been coaching for the last 20 years and keeps sending guys to the NFL. He coached Zeke Elliott so I think him staying will play a huge part for me."IT: How much do you hear from Milroe and Conner, and those guys?LJ: "A lot. Especially Jalen. He wants me to come here bad. We keep in touch all the time."IT: A few of the current commits were talking about you earlier. What's been their message?LJ: "They just said 'why not Texas? It can set you up for life.' Great city, great football, and just a great place to be."IT: The last few months, your offers have really increased. Who are some of the schools in your ear?LJ: "I've been talking to Georgia a lot. Ohio State too. I'll probably visit both this spring."Johnson mentioned he'll take a few officials this summer, then drop a top 5. After that, he said he could commit at anytime.KATY TAYLOR DUO It feels like we've covered Hayden Conner and Bryce Foster for years. Well, we kind of have. I remember going to see Max Wright years ago and him telling me about the insane talent coming up the Taylor Mustangs pipeline. He was right. They were only freshmen at the time, but Conner and Foster looked special from the start.Fast forward to the weekend and it marked the third time in three seasons the elite OL pair had visited for an Elite/Junior Day-like event. Each year, these kids get bigger and bigger. Sometimes it's really noticeable, like with Foster. I remember the kid at 6-foot-1, 250 in 2018. On Saturday, it looked like Foster ate the freshman version of himself.If you say you're 6-foot-5, 348 pounds, I'd be a little worried. That's a lot of weight to keep on a HS kid. But when you see the way Foster carries it, it's....beautiful. He still runs a sub 5.0 40-yard dash. His calves are bigger than Barry Sanders', and from the way he puts it, he's still light on his feet. He's the Mountain and I believe him.Inside Texas: What was it like getting back to Austin today?Bryce Foster: "It was pretty great seeing the new Hall of Fame and all the accolades and accomplishments at the University of Texas."IT: How involved is the track & field team at Texas for you?BF: "It was my second time meeting them. We spoke at the K-State game last year. I'm really glad the coaching staff is on board with letting me throw (shot put) as well as letting me play football."IT: How big of a priority is that towards making your college decision?BF: "It's really big. It's one of the main reasons I like Texas. It's something I've always wanted to do when I get to college. It's cool because my first year to be draft eligible will also be the Summer Olympics. I think that would be an awesome opportunity. Like Marquise Goodwin."IT: You've always told us about your great relationship with Coach Hand since 8th grade. What stands out about him and how much of a factor will it be?BF: "We just went over his Powerpoint presentation and how he coached 16 guys who are in the NFL. That speaks for itself. His resume is undeniable. He's probably one of my favorite coaches. We have a strong relationship. Almost to the point...like we're friends."IT: What's your plan for officials visits and making a decision?BF: "Depending on my schedule, track season, and this summer, I might take a few in the spring or wait until the fall."IT: How much is Hayden Conner recruiting you? Or does he not care where you go (joking)?BF: "Ohh he does (laughs). Him and Jalen both persuade me, always throwing facts about UT at me. It's fun messing with them about it."Foster spoke about his Pluckers lunch and staying in the 340-pound range. Next up for the elite target are Oklahoma and Texas A&M visits. He'll have a top 5 and take all five officials, and he let us know Texas will get one of those visits.Let's slide over to the other monster teammate, 6-foot-7 four-star o-lineman and Texas pledge Hayden Conner. The Big NASA never misses an opportunity to hang with fellow UT commit Jalen Milroe and the chance to help persuade fellow recruits to join UT's C/O 2021.Inside Texas: As a current commitment for Texas and seeing new faces, what's it like attending these events?Hayden Conner: "It felt normal, like home. It was good to meet Coach Yurcich and all the new coaches on board. It feels like they're meant to be here."IT: How easy is it for your position group with Herb Hand remaining on staff?HC: "It's perfect. If there was a coaching change, I wouldn't de-commit because I love Texas, but Coach Hand makes my job a lot easier."IT: Attending Elite Day gives you a chance to help recruit this class. How do these events help you?HC: "Me and Jalen (Milroe) talked to Latrell (Neville) earlier today before it all started. We only spoke to a few non-commits, but I'm always on Bryce (Foster). Everyday."IT: What's your selling point to Foster?HC: "It's just family. It's me and Jalen. We've all played forever. We won the national championship together with FBU. It's home. Eventually he'll figure it out. He really enjoyed it. He might not say it to you, but he'll say it to us."IT: What was Katy Taylor's playoff run like?HC: "It was nuts. It kind of came out of nowhere. We shocked a lot of people. I think the stuff we did in the offseason after losing to Cy-Creek in the second round our sophomore year, we were upset. We were tired of being overlooked and came out fighting."Conner offered this last nugget: "We know the future at Texas is so bright and others are starting to learn that."
  5. I've been thinking it for awhile, but I didn't want to post it because it comes off like sour grapes if you're reading the tea leaves. But objectively, the red flags are there: NFL father / college coach or analyst or whatever, spending the Covid days training his kids, and then becomes an assistant coach on their high school team. A private north Texas parochial high school team at that. And Tommy missed his entire junior season with an injury. If they weren't legacies, then I think there would be more discussion about this. OL is the most difficult position to project from high school, anyway IMO. The services have been historically bad at their OL evals, especially in comparison to other positions. I've seen too many camp warriors who are maxed out and never make the leap as their competition improves and ages. Or maybe I've just been soured by the long and distinguished list of 4 and 5 star OL busts that UT has endured over the last decade? There are few freaks of nature that stand out, guys like Leonard Davis, but for the most part it seems like a crapshoot when the $9.95ers do their OL evals. Bag on Herman for a lot of things, and he will get shit on massively around here if/when the Brocks take their talents to Tuscaloosa, but he hasn't been a star fucker on the OL and he's rebuilt that room from the ground up into a strength. Whatever metrics they are using to evaluate high school linemen seem to be working.
  6. I’m finally going through the 2021 class now after taking a break for much of this recruiting cycle. Just going through offense first and I’m just now realizing we signed some ballers at wide receiver. I had no idea how good Alexis and Davis were but the one that intrigues me the most is Lee. His skill set does not match his body type at all. If someone described a receiver recruit to you as possessing great hand hands, elite body control, above average 40 speed but played tough over the middle and relished breaking tackles and stiff arming people you would assume that player was a 6”4, 215 pound Lil Jordan Humphrey type player and not a 5”10, 175 point cat quick inside receiver. This is the kind of player that goes to Kansas State and fucking destroys us for four years. I’m guessing his 40 time is not elite and combined with his size that probably took him off the radar for most teams? If he can bulk up and stay that quick (which should not be a problem) he should wreck shop in the B12. It doesn’t matter what his top end speed is if his first 10 yards are elite and he has that body control. This guy is going to be a really good player for us and he is wildly underrated, IMO. I assume the recruiting nerds are going to tell me why I am wrong and why it is we were fighting UTSA for him and not LSU.
  7. Whoops. I pretty much never go into the CR but at this point, I can’t even keep track of what thread I’m in because everything seems to be converging right now. To get us back on track, I looked out our offers by position in this class. Defense looks pretty damn good across the board. DT could get a little iffy if we miss on Turner, but we’ve at least identified and offered backup plans. We’re on Plan A or B at almost every other position. Offense is a different story... We’re set at QB, and we have our RB2, but it looks like we’ll whiff on Wheaton and Jackson. After that, we don’t have any offers that are realistic. Drayton needs to be working to identify OOS RB1s, not sitting around His house watching NCSI all day. It’s truly insane what a lazy, low volume recruiter he is, and that Herman lets him get away with it. WR isn’t great, but if we land Ketron Jackson and Alexis, then we’re in a decent spot and have some options for the last WR in the class. We probably need a couple more OOS offers here, too. At TE, Davis is a question mark to stay and we didn’t take a TE last year, so we at least need Davis plus another. I wouldn’t hate taking 2 true TEs if we can find good ones. Boulware just made some offers, but we’ll have to wait to see if we have a chance with them. Helm seems like the most realistic, but he’s no lock. Hopefully we can find a late riser here as those guys tend to be the beat TEs anyway. Guys who’ve been TE size since their SO year tend to not work out. OL isn’t good either. Even if I put on my burnt orange colored glasses, I can’t come up with a 5 good, realistic options based on our current offers. We’ll definitely need a second wave of offers soon. Overall, the lack of backup offers on offense when we’re not in a great spot for our primary targets is not a good sign. it seems like Herman’s betting the offense will be good this year and our current offers will turn towards us, but as we’ve already seen multiple times, that kind of hubris can really hurt us. This football season is becoming more and more of an all or nothing proposition not just for Herman, but for the whole football program. If he lays an egg this season regardless of whether he stays or gets fired, this will become a really, really rough class and will undo a lot of the good work Herman’s done on the recruiting trail to raise the talent level in the program in the last three classes. A small 2020 class combined with a bad 2021 class will weigh down the program and cause depth issues for the next 3-4 years, like we’ve seen with Mack and Charlie’s departure. On the other hand, if we do win big, this roster will be one of the top 5 or 6 most talented in the country for the next 3-4 years with a deep and talented QB room and Herman will be set up for success for the foreseeable future.
  8. IT Humidor COACHING SEARCHWhen Tom Herman says he's going to have a process he means it. On NSD1 he said he was in no hurry to make hires and he is proving that by the minute, day, week, and now, *checks calendar* month.[Halley's Comet flies by]So what? They aren't missing games yet.The school has done a pretty good job -- about as good of a job as can be expected -- in keeping these searches under wraps. When fans do get a credible name, they tend to think 'that's the guy!' and rush to judgement. Then, if he isn't signed a day later 'he turned Texas down!' Maybe there's more to it.An example is Frank Okam. It's widely reported that Okam interviewed. I heard that interview went well on both sides. At this time it doesn't appear that an offer has been extended. The only logical conclusion is Herman is vetting other candidates who have yet to be named in addition to Okam. Sounds like a thorough, well run search.Of course some coaches have turned Texas down for varying reasons. Maybe the money wasn't right or maybe those coaches are already in a good, stable situation. Don't ever underestimate the value of the latter in that profession.When you target coaches who have numerous options it makes things even more difficult and drawn out. Herman's methodical approach along with targets weighing all their options has extended the process, and those factors could be what draws the remaining two hires out further. In some cases Texas might be hostage to variables out of its control. If you want to get your guy, you have to be patient.I won't begin to formulate an opinion on staff composition until I see it in total. Maybe a big development awaits. Or maybe Herman adds a detail and process guy who excites nobody but adds tons of hidden value.I will mention, recruiting ability should definitely be taken into account for the remaining two openings of tight end and defensive tackle. Without a doubt.DB vs WRHiring Jay Valai and Andre Coleman didn't necessarily excite fans. Not that it matters, but those could prove to be very good hires despite lack of fanfare.I've shared some glowing comments on the new DB and recently received some more. He's already been recruiting via phone calls. Theadis Reagins, the defensive back coach at North Shore who was previously at Lamar, had this to say after I asked him what makes him say Coach Valai is a good pick up: "He's a Texas guy. He will bring energy and good technical teaching. I saw his work in person when he was GA at UGA."Reagins had a good relationship with Coach Washington but will likely build the same with Valai, especially as the new coach recruits stud corner Denver Harris for the 2022 class. Valai has already taken the first steps towards that end. If he can pick up where Washington left off, Quinn Ewers won't be the only five-star Texas is in good position for in that class.Throughout the season I heard some criticisms of Drew Mehringer's coaching of wide receivers. What I heard was so bad it was hard to believe, effectively, he didn't teach the receivers how to beat press coverage. Not that he tried and couldn't get his teaching across....he didn't teach it at all. He would tell his big receivers to use their size and power advantage and that's it. Thinking back to Malcolm Epps' struggles getting off the line it all makes sense. I'm shook.When the discussion turns to players not being developed, this is a prime example. I had this information confirmed this week as I received positive news on Coleman. With Mehringer they just worked on routes, and not very good ones, and drills they didn't seem to benefit from. Coleman immediately went to work on getting a good release and they saw immediate improvement.Coleman's becoming a popular guy and should be a value add on the recruiting trail.STATE OF RECRUITING With over half the staff replaced and settling in, the off-season journey to the 2020 season has begun.Today it will be time to officially get to work as the dead period ends. Texas still has at least 3-4 spots available for the 2020 haul and will be hosting a few targets for official visits next weekend.This weekend they'll be more focused on the class ahead, but let's start with #cloUT2020.UT is bringing in unsigned seniors Kelvontay Dixon (ATH Carthage) and Isaiah Dunson (CB Tucker, GA) on official visits beginning next Friday.Dixon scheduled officials for Arkansas and UTSA recently, but those appear to have been cancelled. I believe Texas is pushing once again and this thing might need a bow. Dixon spoke about getting to know new wide receiver coach Andre Coleman and I believe he'll receive a visit soon. Jeff Traylor caught Dixon's attention earlier this month after grabbing the UTSA job, but it seems as though this a guy UT wants to close with. At one point last season, Tom Herman told the staff Dixon would be in this class. That looks more likely now.Dunson is another where I feel like UT is pushing the right buttons. When you speak with the four-star Georgia native, the Horns seem to have a clear lead. I know Ole Miss and a few others have shown interest but things are looking good for Texas and Dunson today. You can't go wrong with him or Ennis Rakestraw, but I think the 6-foot-2 Dunson is the take today. They'll likely only take one, but it isn't wise to rule much out in recruiting.Another name to know for next weekend could be Lancaster running back Tre Bradford. He wants to visit Austin in the worst way, and I believe the staff is evaluating all options in case they vote to take a second running back in the class.I also believe if the right player comes across the staff's path, they'll give them a hard look. Example: Texas might want to take a flier on a wide receiver like Savion Williams (Marshall, 6-foot-4.5, 205 pounds) or someone else. We expect Williams to receive a visit soon.With NSD2 a little over three weeks away, I feel the most confident in Dixon, Dunson, and Alfred Collins for this class. All signs seem to be pointing in this direction, which would allow UT to finish with another Top 10 rated class.Now, about Saturday. Last year, following the Sugar Bowl win over Georgia, UT decided to capitalize on that momentum by hosting a group of 2020 prospects in mid-January. It was basically a Junior Day, but a month early and for the biggest priorities. Recruiting never sleeps and the staff found an edge by getting these targets on campus a little earlier. That edge would go on to dull in that cycle, but it was an aggressive move that they'll duplicate. Tomorrow, the 2021 version arrives. Here's a quick rundown on who is expected, with the potential a few other names will surely be added.2021QB Jalen Milroe, Katy Tompkins (TEXAS): The man known as #Milroe helped jump start a recruiting movement for the cycle. He's got that alpha male persona for the position and the more he's actively recruiting for UT, the better. Highly respected by his fellow recruits, it's time to find him some toys at running back and wide receiver and some protection up front on the offensive line.RB LJ Johnson, Cy-Fair: If Camar Wheaton is the state's top tailback, then LJ is probably No. 2. The influx of offers that came Johnson's way in the last month and a half alone (Georgia, Florida, Ohio State, Penn State) are indicative of his ability and potential. Texas can lay a decent claim with a solid weekend. UT quietly led at one point. If the staff begins to push harder it could regain that lead. Johnson would prefer to stay closer to home. He and Milroe were on the same junior high team.WR Teddy Knox, The Woodlands: The slot receiver from The Woodlands, Knox is lightning in a bottle with an electronic 4.42 40 yard dash. The speed shows up on tape, too. His middle name on his Hudl profile is Roosevelt and well, I don't know if it's more awesome if that's real or he made it up. He's a move in from Baton Rouge but I know he was high on Texas when the staff went on the run of 2021 commits last Summer.WR Quay Davis, Dallas Skyline: The former SMU commit, Texas commit, and current de-commit will make his way back to Austin this weekend. Davis has a complicated life, which in recruiting leads to uncertainty. But one thing that's undeniable is his fondness for the Longhorns remains. A re-commitment wouldn't surprise anyone.WR Latrell Neville, Fort Bend Hightower: He's still the kid with potential awaiting awaiting a break out on the field. Neville is a good kid, with great size and upside, but again, his on-field performance might dictate just how much Texas and others push the promising pass-catcher from Fort Bend County.WR JoJo Earle, Aledo: For months and months Texas was virtually the only school putting in significant effort for the explosive scoring machine. Then, during another productive season on the field, teams started noticing. LSU and TCU seem to be the ones in his ear the most, but now that Texas settled in on a receivers coach, let the new relationship-building begin. Earle left UT out of his Top 5, but that might end up being meaningless. It could be telling that before the season began he liked Texas and Oklahoma State. Texas can now sell the Oklahoma State offense in Austin. Also, Andre Coleman is a popular man with the wide receivers. It's time to get Earle around some of that current group.OL Bryce Foster, Katy Taylor: One of the nation's top guards will be in Austin tomorrow. A Herb Hand favorite, getting the Mountain back on campus is big. You know UT commits Hayden Conner and Jalen Milroe are in his ear. They won't try to steer him, but they won't not not try to steer him.OL Hayden Conner, Katy Taylor (TEXAS): The Big NASA will be accompanying his boys from Katy and help recruit for the class as he drops. Conner's looking more and more like a guard, but that's good, Texas needs to add some size to the position.DL Shemar Turner, Desoto: At 6-foot-4 and 265 pounds, the defensive end prospect is an interesting projection. With his length it's likely he'll fill out and play inside in college. He showed vast improvement from his sophomore year to junior season. He's a surefire take and would replace missing on Marcus Burris, should that go as expected.DL Tunmise Adeleye, Katy Tompkins: Perhaps the best defensive line prospect in-state for 2021 (that distinction will go down to the wire), the supremely self-confident kid who shares a locker room with the Milroe might be the biggest fan of UT's expected four-man front from new DC Chris Ash. Every school wants him - Alabama, LSU, OU - but a strong season from the Horns puts them squarely in this, if they aren't already. Kicking and screaming, imo.DE Ja’Tavion Sanders, Denton Ryan (TEXAS): Because they committed early and with little fanfare it probably goes understated how important it was landing Sanders and Billy Bowman Jr last season. Their subsequent performance in 2019 left them a few plays away from a 5A DI state title, but the on-field production displayed by Sanders can't go ignored. Sanders took the talent many knew we had and made it impossible to miss over the course of the playoffs His stock is scorching right now. He'll be a defensive end in college. This shift in scheme benefits him greatly.DE Landon Jackson, Pleasant Grove: After a simply dominating junior campaign, that included a birth on the USA Today All-American first team and another 4A DII state title, Jackson's on-field production cannot go ignored. At almost 6-foot-6, 250, his future as and edge rusher is bright, whether he's standing up or has his hand in the ground. Texas looks good here but A&M and Ohio State have his ear. I don't think LSU or Arkansas are in this.LB Derrick Harris, New Caney (TEXAS): The athletic 'backer and UT pledge was the glue for New Caney as they went undefeated during the regular season. Harris has some positional flexibility but will likely end up at off-the-ball linebacker.CB Ishmael Ibraheem, Dallas Kimball: You can keep Latrell McCutchin, Ibraheem is my top corner in-state for 2021. Former cornerback coach Jason Washington did a tremendous job laying the foundation for his services, but now he's Jay Valai's responsibility. Let's see those DFW ties put to use. This kid can turn-and-burn.DB Billy Bowman Jr, Denton Ryan (TEXAS): Offense, ok. Defense, yeah. Another elite prospect that could be the quick-twitch receiver this program needs or nickel/safety who just keeps coming up big. Bowman earned national honors from Max Preps for his junior season.DB JD Coffey, Kennedale: Things grew stale with Coffey and Texas. He didn't have the best junior campaign, but new defensive coordinator Chris Ash recently reached out to the Kennedale product to starting building the relationship. In a down year for safeties, the four-star with 15+ offers might be a commodity over the next 12 months. He's a good fit for the defense in the same way Xavion Alford is. These are heady types who excel in coverage. Coffey is more physical.CB Hunter Washington, Katy: Texas was a little later than most in offering Washington but that won't hurt. At last check he's going to take his time. He's friends with the rest of the Katy faction.2022OL Devon Campbell, Arlington Bowie: At 6-foot-4, 260, Campbell is looking like an early take and Texas did well to offer him so soon. This kid is a bull and I'm curious about his projection; guard or tackle. If he grows a little more, we're probably looking at a tackle. He has tons of athleticism.We'll add more names once we get more confirmation.Two final notes:-- Andre Coleman will be by Aledo to see JoJo the Juke of Earle, as well as Everman to see 2021 tight end commit Juan Davis and Skyline to see Quay Davis.-- Herb Hand will trip to Fort Worth All Saints to see the brothers Brockermeyer. [Edit: Hand and Yurcich already went by]
  9. IT Quick Notes from Elite Day Texas' first major recruiting event of the new year had two 2020 defensive linemen and a handful of top prospects from the 2021 and 2022 classes. Here are a few quick notes from speaking with the recruits after the event. From: Justin Wells 2021 Cy-Fair RB LJ Johnson... Johnson saw his offer list grow over the last few months. He wants to see LSU and Ohio State, but I still think Texas made a big jump today. Milroe, Harris, and other commits are pushing and he’s listening. He met Mike Yurcich, who told Johnson he's the type of tailback Texas needs. Stan Drayton spent some time with the Houston-area product, too. Texas looks dandy here. Big NASA and The Mountain... aka 2021 Katy Taylor O-linemen Hayden Conner and Bryce Foster were in the house. Conner looks 6-foot-7. Foster told me he runs a sub-5.0 forty at 6-foot-5, 348 pounds.. The Texas track & field staff spoke to Foster and that’s going to be a factor for his signature. Foster says he could take some OVs this spring and Texas is definitely getting one. His relationship with Herb Hand is also key. 2021 New Caney LB Derrick Harris Jr...The Texas commit runs the 200m and 400m in track and also swims competitively. If only more young athletes understood the advantage being a strong swimmer can do for your athletic development. 2021 Kennedale DB JD Coffey wanted to hear more from Texas. New DC Chris Ash made it happen and gave a great first-impression to Coffey and his parents. The four-star loved bonding with the new staff and will be back soon. Notre Dame is getting a visit too. More 2020 Bastrop Cedar Creek DL Alfred Collins... Joe spoke with the 6-foot-6, 282-pound defensive lineman but I caught up with his mother, Benita Pollard-Collins. She's been a very gracious lady throughout this process, and you can tell she’s ready for NSD2 to get here. Tom Herman and Oscar Giles prioritized Collins and it shows. She’s very comfortable with the school and staff. I’m sticking with my Texas pick. 2021 Denton Ryan ATH Ja’Tavian Sanders knows he’s probably a DE at 6-foot-4 weighing 235 pounds, but the Texas pledge is going to keep an open mind to playing WR. He met with Chris Ash, and that should tell you where he’ll play. Kid has filled out. He’s a 5-star. 2021 Texarkana Pleasant Grove DL Landon Jackson...I keep reading about Texas A&M, Ohio State, and LSU. Well, going to a four-man front is huge for the East Texas five-star. He spoke at length with Chris Ash and Oscar Giles. Texas will get one of his five spring OVs, and they’ll be in his top 5 this summer before announcing in August. From: Joe Cook 2021 Katy Tompkins QB Jalen Milroe met Mike Yurcich face-to-face for the first time today and said he enjoyed getting to know his future offensive coordinator. He spent time getting to know not just offensive coaches, but even coaches on the other side of the ball. Worked on LJ Johnson, Latrell Neville, and Bryce Foster today. He sounded very excited for the offensive changes, and said there should be more downfield passing in the offense. 2021 Everman ATH Juan Davis returned to his future home. He spoke with new TEs coach Jay Boulware and started building their relationship since Boulware didn't recruit Davis while at Oklahoma. Davis is firmly committed and said he isn't hearing from other schools.Alfred Collins might be the top remaining target on Texas' board. He met with Chris Ash today and said he liked what he heard from the staff regarding Texas' new defensive scheme. Baylor is out. Lincoln Riley and Tom Herman have yet to go in-home. Nick Saban will be in Bastrop on Monday. Collins plans to decide NSD2, but getting him back on campus was a big plus for the Longhorns.2021 Missouri City Hightower WR Latrell Neville was on campus once again. Mike Yurcich recruited Neville while at Ohio State, and Neville noticed the numbers produced by offenses with Yurcich's influence. Said on the record that he wants to stay in state. Neville and Andre Coleman have a relationship that comes from Coleman's days at Kansas State.2020 Manor DL Princely Umanmielen spoke with Chris Ash as well. The four-man front is big for him, and Texas spoke with him about playing at 5-tech. Oregon, Auburn, Florida, and potentially Alabama are the schools Texas is contending with. Umanmielen spoke with Troy Omeire, Xavion Alford, and Hudson Card while on campus.2021 Texarkana Pleasant Grove DL Marcus Burris tripped to Austin with teammate Landon Jackson. Burris plans to take his official visits in the spring and knows right now he will see Texas and Texas A&M. Per Burris, the coaches did a good job today of letting him know how he would be utilized if he came to Texas, likely on the interior of the DL.2021 Magnolia OL Matthew Wykoff spent time with Herb Hand today. He's camped and seen a game in Austin before, and said he was excited to receive his recent offer. He was complimentary of the culture at Texas.
  10. Bobby Burton Just 48 hours before national signing day, the Longhorns are hoping to add five players to a class that already includes 18 high school prospects and three college transfers. The players : RB LJ Johnson - Cy Fair WR Keithron Lee - Bryan Rudder OL Austin Uke - Dallas Parish Episcopal DL David Abiara - Mansfield Legacy CB Ishmael Ibraheem - Dallas Kimball ** Justin Wells reported late last night that Ishmael Ibraheem, one of the state’s best corner prospects, was now expected to sign his letter of intent on Wednesday. That decision bolsters a Texas secondary class in serious need at cornerback. The only other corner in the class is Jamier Johnson from California, who many actually peg as more of a safety in new defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski’s scheme. At 6-1, 175 pounds, Ibraheem is a long-armed corner who is just beginning to tap into enormous potential. If he works hard in Austin, it’s difficult for me to see him not eventually becoming a starter for the Horns. ** The LJ Johnson recruitment saga will likely end on Wednesday. Johnson is expected to choose either Texas or Texas A&M. Rumors had Johnson secretly visiting Austin yesterday. Interestingly, Johnson could have already enrolled at any either school but has chosen not to. So the question now becomes, for whichever school he selects, will he enter immediately or will he wait until summer to enroll? Given the lack of quality numbers for the Longhorns at running back, Texas would clearly hope he joins the team immediately and participated in spring ball. ** Texas’ recruitment of offensive linemen for the 2021 class was an embarrassment. No other position struck out on so many of its top targets so often. It was truly ugly to watch transpire. So Austin Uke, a likely tackle, would add a key component to the class. But the Horns have their work cut out for them yet again. Stanford, among others, is also in pursuit and has built a longer relationship with him. Texas is not out of the race, but the Horns are definitely fighting to the end. Steve Sarkisian making quick contact with Uke’s private line coach Donald Hawkins (a former Horn) helped matters. So has new line coach Kyle Flood’s pedigree and recruiting. But will it be enough? ** While the previous Texas staff came up short in many ways, I always felt like the Horns player personnel department did a fine job of identifying players later in the process. Keithron Lee is a perfect example of that. Lee, who is already committed to Texas but postponed his signing because of the uncertainty surrounding the coaching situation in December, is set to ink with the Horns Wednesday morning. He is a twitchy, long-armed, fluid athlete. The Horns recruited him to play receiver, but he’s the type who could easily play on either side of the ball if he so desired. Lee may not receive the fanfare of other big-name recruits on Wednesday, but I feel like the Texas personnel staff really found something in Lee. ** David Abiara, the 6-4, 248-pound defensive end from Mansfield Legacy, initially committed to Notre Dame. Texas finished second in that recruitment. However, Abiara was said to be in the wrong place at the wrong time and had some legal issues. That pushed Notre Dame out of the picture. However, with those issues now resolved, Abiara has been in close contact with Texas and new DL coach Bo Davis since Davis’ very first day on the job. It would be a surprise if Abiara opted for another program than Texas on Wednesday. And that’s a good thing for the Horns. Texas wants Abiara in a big way and he certainly adds another impressive, young DL for Texas. Interestingly, if Texas had not re-entered the picture for Abiara, he likely would have ended up at Washington, where Kwiatkowski would have been happy to have him. But now it’s more likely the two unite in Austin instead of Seattle. ** One final note: With almost an entirely new staff in place, do not be surprised if a new prospect emerges or is even signed on Wednesday. These new coaches could easily circle back to a prospect they liked at their previous school. There have already been a few names surface, like a running back from the Southeast.
  11. @closetojumping brought up in the other thread landing, anything less than 10 of the top 20 for this class is unacceptable. Let's take a look how things stand at the moment. Feel free to chime in. 1) T. Brockermeyer - still think we land him in the end, but this would be the biggest miss/screwup I think we'll ever witness if it doesn't happen. 2) Wheaton - seems like this will be a tricky recruitment that could go a lot of different ways. Are we going to play the game on this one? Boulware seemed to be the lead recruiter on him for OU. 3) Byrd - looking good here (supposedly). 4) L. Jackson - has a Collins feel to it IMO. Will visit a few more times, $9.95ers will get our hopes up, but the legacy wins out in the end. Hope I'm wrong. 5) Sanders - COMMITTED. Absolute stud, may end up 5* in the end. 6) D. Jackson - was a Texas lean early in the season until we couldn't get out of our own way. Don't see a flip here. 7) Stone - nothing to say here. 8 ) Milroe - COMMITTED. Leader of the class. 9) Banks - aggy commit. Never really showed interest. 10) Burris - doubtful, although probably in the best spot with him we've been. Aggy likely. Hope to be wrong on this. 11) Foster - would already be a Texas commit if not for the aggy mom. Aggy mom is the only thing that may keep him from us. Kid loves Coach Hand and probably knows Henson is a scrub coach. 12) McCutchin - Bama' commit and mad at Texas because we offered 24 hours late or something 13) Davis - one time Texas commit and likely to rejoin. 14) LJ Johnson - I think Texas is in a good spot here. 15) Bowman - COMMIT. Bad ass Billy is another big time stud. Borderline 5* in the end imo. 16) JoJo - at one point Texas was leader, but didn't have us in a recent top 5. Need to get back in on this one. 17) C. Jackson - OU commit. 18) Fatheree - seems to be higher priorities on the board and seems like a candidate to drop throughout the year. 19) Clayton Smith - kid likes Texas, but doesn't appear to much communication with him from the new staff. Is he a DE or an off the ball LB? 20) Blackshire - doubt this one happens. As always, a lot will change in the rankings and this will look a lot different down the line. Thoughts?
  12. 1) Prove it - Is he still doing what he set out to do? No. He attempted something, saw little traction, and abandoned the business as far as I understand. 2) Reminds me of a guy that was an aspiring artist, became a war veteran praised by his superiors for bravery, then began a career in politics, founded a movement, eventually was elected into leadership on the global stage and built allies to run a global empire. That guy also sounds fucking awesome! Don't fucking spin me, dude. A college degree is a dime a dozen. Starting a business is quite easy. I've done it many times. I know plenty of other idiots that have started businesses of their own. Running a successful one is way fucking harder, and there's no evidence of Valai doing that. Told to leave at UGA, told to leave at KC, told to leave at Rutgers, yet here you are claiming these brief interludes in the world of football coaching as virtues for this guy. If all that looks swell to you, terrific. It highlights you as a fucking pollyanna rube to anyone else paying attention. 3) You are going to have to explain to me what "Summating" is. I consider myself a moderately well-read guy, but I don't know if I've ever encountered that verb. As to calling the guy a proven loser, thus far in his career, that's all he is. He's a currently unemployed 20-something with a history of poor performance in his profession, no tenure at any job, and only circular references to support him, of which one just happens to be in hiring mode at a new gig. I don't know if you've reached a role yet in which you have personnel responsibilities, but if you have and you're defending this guy's resume for a job at Texas, you must be a fucking joke of a manager with an absolutely shit team. 4) This is what you get when you hire meatheaded clowns like Chris Ash and Tom Herman. Weak hires with little substance to their backgrounds beyond personal affiliation with the people doing the hiring. People are attempting to defend all of this shit. It's unbelievable. I saw people defend Carl Reese and Greg Davis and Mac McWhorter for years. I watched people defend Shawn Watson and Tim Beck and Tim Nunez and Bobby Kennedy. Large Swaths of the fanbase vehemently defended Chuckles Strong as he finished each year with embarrassing losses and an overall losing record. All of the people doing this have been on the wrong side of Texas football history. Yet they keep showing up, in fucking waves, to celebrate the next reach below our punching weight because they cannot fathom the fucking premise that Texas is a place that apparently breeds entitlement, complacency, and sloth in its ranks as it counts its money.
  13. With the obvious caveat that we’ll all look like idiots if Herman shits the bed this season, I agree with most of this. I say we’ll finish 5th this year with the top 5 all being close together and us having a class score right around 300. I could easily see Texas finishing top 3 with a good season and willingness to win some OOS auctions. I’d drop Florida out of the top 5 in exchange for either LSU or tOSU. I could see Clemson falling out of the top 5 just due to class size (they’ve taken 52 over the last two classes, which is a ton for them. Numbers are hard to predict for them due to all the early entrants), though they may average like a .96 per recruit so their finish will be very dependent on class size. I fully expect them to have the highest average per recruit. As for specific prospects and positions, I really like the offers of Cooks and Blackwell at LB. it shows a good understanding on the part of Ash and the defensive staff of the changing profile of college and pro linebackers. You’re way better off taking guys in the 190-200 lb range in HS that are damn good football players and athletes and then bulking them up to 220 in college. Side note: the recruiting services haven’t figured this out yet, so I’ll be perfectly ok with taking 3 stars at this spot. If you look at the last five or so years, there are a ton of 4 and 5* busts at LB because the services fall in love with guys who are 240 in HS and already look the part instead of projecting. The 2016 class is a great example of this. Our LB offers also speak well to Ash’s understanding of how to use our current (and potential spin down) LBs for this upcoming season. I think Harris Jr. is a better edge rusher than off ball LB and, especially if we miss on Jackson, he will hopefully be viewed as edge defender/DL instead of off ball LB like he would’ve been in Orlando’s defense. I think we’ll go out of state to find elite talent at WR, CB, and possibly safety. Guys like Franklin and Mario Williams are the type we’ll need to land to get a top 3 class. Im not sure who it would be, but we also need to land a legit TE. With Herman’s insistence on using the TE (Yurcich uses a TE heavily too, although he’s not as obstinate about it), not taking a true TE in 2020 was a mistake and Juan Davis is a great prospect, but I’d like to see him paired with a true in-line TE.
  14. https://247sports.com/college/texas/Article/Jay-Valai-Chris-Ash-Big-12-recruiter-rankings-247Sports-recruiter-rankings-150750905/ Valai and Ash remain at the top of Big 12 recruiter rankings ByMIKE ROACH 3 hours ago As the 2021 class heads into the fall, two members of the Texas staff stand out as impact recruiters. Texas cornerbacks coach Jay Valai has been a whirlwind of energy since he arrived in Austin, and it’s paying off on the recruiting front. Valai currently ranks at No. 25 in the nation, according to the 247Sports Recruiting Rankings. Valai also ranks at No. 1 in the Big 12 with four commits charged to his tab. Valai has wins as the primary recruiter for four-star Denton Ryan ATH Billy Bowman and four-star Dallas Kimball cornerback Ishmael Ibraheem. He’s also credited as the secondary recruiter for four-star Kennedale safety JD Coffey and four-star Pasadena (Calif.) John Muir cornerback Jamier Johnson. Valai’s 59.37 points and 93.84 average rating both rank tops in the Big 12 conference with Oklahoma cornerbacks coach Roy Manning trailing him in second place. As the D-FW area recruiter, Valai is also in on players like Shemar Turner. As the secondary coach recruiter for Andrew Mukuba, he could still score more points if the Longhorns can sign the Austin LBJ safety. Chris Ash isn’t far behind Valai in the Big 12 recruiter rankings. As the primary recruiter for JD Coffey and Jamier Johnson and the secondary recruiter for Ishmael Ibraheem and Morice Blackwell, Ash is right on Manning’s heels as the No. 3 recruiter in conference. Ash ranks No. 56 nationally, and he is still in the game for several prospects on the board. Ash is probably a bit shortchanged in the rankings, because his active recruiting style could make him the secondary recruiter for most of the defensive prospects Texas is recruiting. Ash is also intricately involved for Terrence Cooks, Andrew Mukuba, Shemar Turner, Jaydon Williams, Ikechukwu Iwunnah and Albert Regis. Elsewhere in the conference, Texas linebackers coach Coleman Hutzler checks in at No. 18 in the Big 12 with 2 commitments from Derrick Harris Jr. and Morice Blackwell. Hutzler could still cash in on Cooks and Williams as well. Herb Hand and Andre Coleman check in at No. 29 and No. 30 respectively in the conference. Coleman still has some targets on the board that could elevate his ranking while Hand has the opportunity to add one or two more prospects to his tally. Texas tight ends coach Jay Boulware comes in at No. 36 in the Big 12 with commitments from Juan Davis and Gunnar Helm. Stan Drayton checks in at No. 47 in the conference with one commitment from Hallettsville RB Jonathon Brooks. Drayton is still in the hunt and could be considered a favorite for Cy-Fair running back LJ Johnson Jr. If he can cash in there, his cycle would be considered a success in this cycle.
  15. Nahlin: RECRUITING MATTERS RB LJ Johnson, Cy-Fair (2021). Texas and Texas A&M have given him a hard date: February 3rd. They want him to decide and sign on Wednesday. Despite reports, he hasn’t visited Austin recently, but that hasn’t deterred the staff from pursuing. Coach Drayton and Coach Harris have remained in consistent pursuit. Conventional wisdom has Texas as the most likely destination, but our latest intel has us thinking A&M has the upper hand as of this morning. Could there be another plot twist, maybe so, but we don’t think so at this time. [Per a source close to Camar Wheaton, the Texas staff made a very late and quiet run at the running back but he’s going to stick with his commitment and sign with Alabama on Wednesday.] CB Ishmael Ibraheem, Dallas Kimball (2021): As IT reported Sunday night Ishmael Ibraheem is expected to sign with Texas on Wednesday. “I’m excited to talk with the coaches. Coach Joseph especially. I’ll definitely keep working out and be ready. There’s no time to celebrate,” said the lengthy corner. Ibraheem has been staying in shape, hoping he’d get the clearance to ink with Texas on National Signing Day. Now, that looks like a reality. DE David Abiara, Mansfield Legacy (2021): IT checked in with a source close to Mansfield Legacy four-star DE David Abiara again over the weekend. The answer was the same on the status of Abiara’s recruitment, “If he doesn’t sign with Texas Wednesday, I will be very surprised.” The 6-foot-4, 245-pound DE with broad shoulders and long arms was leaning to Washington prior to the new Texas staff being hired, which included Pete Kwiatkowski, who was recruiting Abiara for the Huskies. DT Bear Alexander, Denton Ryan (2022): Denton Ryan 2022 DT Bear Alexander’s tweet caused quite the storm yesterday. According to a source close to Bear, the near 6-foot-4, 325-pounder does plan to announce his college commitment Wednesday. When IT stopped by Denton Ryan three weeks ago, the three schools mentioned at the top of the list were Ohio State, Georgia, and Texas … with Texas A&M, Oklahoma, Alabama, and Miami in the hunt. Since that time, Bear and his circle have been in contact with Texas DL coach Bo Davis via text and phone, and there was a phone call with Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian last week. In talking with a source close to Alexander’s recruitment last night, Texas A&M, Oklahoma, Georgia, and Texas are mentioned as most likely group where the pick will come from, but IT is not discounting Ohio State’s chances yet. Alexander and family were on the move this weekend, and one source believes there was a student visit but that school is unknown. The same source does not expect Texas to be the pick, should he stick to his February 3 announcement. One source thinks OU has the upperhand. Like we saw with Evan Stewart, there will be a large group of coaches working to prolong Alexander’s decision. DB Landon Hullaby, Mansfield Timberview (2022): Little brother of UT linebacker Jaden Hullaby, the three-star knows the University of Texas well. Real well. He was re-offered by the UT staff recently. “I want to work on being more of a leader on and off the field,” said Hullaby. “Also just want to keep working on the little things to make my game better and keep improving.” Plenty of schools are in this pursuit, but Texas feels like the leader. “I’d have to say Texas, Baylor, Oregon, and Notre Dame are recruiting me the hardest right now,” said Hullaby. “Whichever college gets me will get a hardworking dog that will come and make an impact immediately.” What is it about Longhorns, Lando? “Of course being from the state of Texas, the UT offer always means a lot and holds a lot of weight and with my brother going there,” Hullaby explained. “It just makes it even more cool to have an opportunity to be able to play with him again and Texas is definitely high on my list.” His timeline sounds like a summer decision, but with recruiting, could be sooner. “I plan on making my decision in the summer or earlier if the time feels right,” Hullaby said.
  16. Roach Four-star Kennedale safety JD Coffeyenjoyed meeting with Chris Ash today. Coffey said the new defensive staff did a great job of breaking down how the new system will look. Coffey plans to make a bunch of visits, but he said that it was good to see he’s still a big priority for Texas moving forward. If the Longhorns push, I think they can comfortably win this one. — Texas commit Ja'Tavion Sanders said that the visit affirmed his belief that Texas is the place for him. Sanders met with both the offensive and defensive staff since he plays on both sides of the ball, but he said he feels the defensive scheme will fit him as an edge rusher. Sanders said he's not entertaining any other schools at this time. — Alfred Collins said he enjoyed meeting with Chris Ash today to get an idea of what the defense will look like. Collins said Baylor is out of contention for him and he’s focusing on the top three of Oklahoma, Texas, and Alabama. Nick Saban will go in-home on Monday, and Collins talked about maybe taking unofficial visits to Alabama and Oklahoma, though his mother said they likely wouldn’t make those visits. — Princely Umanmielen has three official visits left, and he will likely visit Florida next week with Alabama or Auburn. Texas is in the mix to get a mid-week official visit if he decides to use it, but Texas is largely in the picture because of the move to a four-man front. Umanmielen mentioned the visit was less awkward than he thought it would be. — Keep an eye on Weatherford safety Cisco Carson. He made a visit today and said Chris Ash has been in contact. Carson holds offers from Illinois State and Kansas, but he’s well-built and should pick up some attention this spring. — Shadow Creek linebacker Terrence Cookssaid that Texas is a top school after this visit if not the top school. Cooks seemed to hit it off with Texas commit Derrick Harris Jr, and he said he wants to take his official visit when Harris takes his. Texas made a big move for Cooks today and could corner the market on two big and athletic linebackers. — Jalen Milroe said he loved meeting with Mike Yurcich. He said the offense will likely stay the same but will play with more tempo. Milroe had his recruiting hat on today and was working hard on other prospects. He remains one-hundred percent committed. — Derrick Harris said his commitment is stronger after visiting today. Harris said he liked what he heard from Coleman Hutzler and felt the two would mesh well. Harris is all Texas at this point and not entertaining other schools. — Hayden Conner is working hard on Bryce Foster. He remains fully committed because of his love for Herb Hand and the aerospace program. — Bryce Foster said that he’s planning to cut to a top-five list soon and figure out where he wants to take his official visits. Oklahoma is already slotted for one and Foster said there’s a strong chance Texas gets one. Foster met with the track and field coaches today to discuss throwing shot and disc in the future. — LJ Johnson said that the commits were all over him during the visit. The four-star running back from Cy-Fair has a good relationship with Stan Drayton, and he’s been impressed with his resume. Johnson said he enjoyed talking with Mike Yurcich, and he feels Texas is a strong fit for his skillset. Of the guys I spoke with today, I feel Texas made the biggest impression on Johnson. — Pleasant Grove defensive end Landon Jackson said Texas and Texas A&M will get official visits from him along with Ohio State. He plans to make spring official visits before making a decision in the summer. Jackson said he’s enthused about the move to a four-man front and he feels that Chris Ash can utilize him in the right way. 8COMMENTS — Pleasant Grove defensive tackle Marcus Burris called this visit the best one he’s made to Texas yet. The four-star prospect said he finally got a clear view of how he would be used at the next level. Burris said that Texas will definitely get an official visit in the spring along with Texas A&M. It feels like Texas made up a ton of ground on this visit. — Everman tight end Juan Davis said everything is the same with him, and he loved meeting new tight ends coach Jay Boulware. No other schools are really talking to him right now.
  17. IT Scoop After posting how closely the staff monitors body fat percentage I was curious how involved nutritionists were with the players. It sounds like they're very involved with meal planning, even up-to-the-minute, as the players are picking their meals in real-time. They'll walk players through, detailing what they need when it comes to protein, carbs, and fats based on the player's individual goals. Basically, nutritionists are the good angel sitting atop the player's shoulder.I asked about a few players we haven't talked about much. Inevitably, if we discuss 25 players we'll be asked about a 26th. We were asked about redshirt freshman wide receiver Kennedy Lewis on Friday.I was told he did a good job on scout team last season. Whoever the best receiver was on the offense the defense was preparing for, that would be Lewis. Whether it was Ja'Marr Chase or Denzel Mims, Kennedy Lewis would give the defense the best look he could. The source said Lewis got better looks than any receiver in practice last year because he got to compete versus the ones the most. He made his share of plays as well. He showed hands, speed, and competitiveness. He's starting to fill out and getting stronger. He'll work at Z in the spring but behind who remains in question. This year he'll be able to compete for snaps.I also asked about redshirt sophomore defensive lineman Daniel Carson and redshirt freshman defensive end Myron Warren. I heard essentially the same thing on each. They're both working hard and do everything that's asked of them. They're both dropping excess weight. Carson is about 290 and Warren is about 270. Their biggest issues are the amount of bodies ahead of them. At this point it just comes down to performance.I asked about redshirt freshman Peter Mpagi. I don't know the full details of his issue, but he is still not cleared to participate.You may have noticed Spring football was pushed back a little later in the calendar than normal. It won't begin until March 24th and will conclude with the spring game on April 25th. Typically spring ball is over around the 15th. This was done so the players can absorb as much of the new schemes as possible. The coaches want the players to hit the field with as much understanding as possible. Smart.Tom Herman and his staff will hold yet another coaching clinic. In years past Herman's keynote speaker has been Bill Belichick and Sean McVay. This year's headliner won't be a huge surprise. Edit: Mike VrabelJAYLIN SMITHEarly ratings and rankings are bad. If you're the sort to watch film it's important to watch a player before looking up his profile page. When defensive back Jaylin Smith was offered last week it didn't stir conversation like a national elite being offered would have, but it should have.The athlete from Alemany high school in Mission Hills, California, is currently rated an .86 but he's in for a significant bump as the network corrects to the market input that matters most -- offers.In addition to picking up a Texas offer on the 11th, he also picked up a Clemson offer on the 10th.Inside Texas: It's early, but what schools are standing out?Jaylin Smith: USC, Washington, Penn State, Clemson, and Texas all stand out the most. They have winning tradition and a championship mentality to push their players to a higher level.IT: Where have you visited so far and where do you plan on going?JS: I've been to USC and Cal. On my spring break I plan on visiting Washington, Clemson, and Texas.IT: What are you looking for in a school?JS: A good home with great people around me. Guys who want to work, that want to push guys to do good things and just be a good citizen. Academics have to be a good fit for me.IT: How did the relationship with Texas get started?JS: Coach Ash came to one of our 6:00 a.m. workouts. We met at the school and have been talking and texting for about three weeks now.IT: Texas fans are still getting to know Coach Ash. How does he come across?JS: He's a great guy, a great coach, great mindset. He knows a lot about the game. He sends me film of the Texas guys. We talk about scheme but we don't just talk about football, we talk about being a good man.IT: What position does he see you at? You already play nickel, but you seem like you can play anything in the secondary. What's your current size?JS: Hybrid safety, all of them. I'm up to 6-foot and 185 pounds.IT: Does Ash's time at Ohio State resonate with you?JS: Growing up watching those games is something in the back of my mind.IT: Do you have any family members playing football in college? (He was putting off a football vibe like a Texas recruit)JS: My whole background is football. My brother played, my cousins play, my little brothers play, and my dad has coached for 20 years.Smith comes across as well over the phone as he does on his highlight tape. He's going to be successful no matter where he goes.Beyond Smith, I think it's telling how Ash goes about recruiting. Pretty impressive for a defensive coordinator.TWO QUICK DB NOTESTexas looking out-of-state for safeties shouldn't come as too big of a surprise. The in-state crop has a lot of solid options but it's hard to know which player, if any, might emerge as a sure-fire take over the course of their senior year. Rather than wait until it's too late to find that out, the staff is being proactive.Skyline's Isaiah Nwokobia and Cy Ranch's Romario Noelpicked up offers just before the dead period.Nwokobia: Been hearing from Texas, SMU, and Minnesota the most. He's going to visit those schools this spring and see what other offers come in before setting official visits later in the spring/early summer ahead of a summer announcement.Noel: He committed to the previous Baylor staff but has remained committed to Dave Aranda. I think he could be a linebacker long-term. He's hearing the most from UT, Baylor, and Kansas. He's waiting for his dad to return stateside before figuring out a visit schedule.Expect Texas to continue to mine out-of-state players while recruiting domestically.From: @Justin Wells It might be the dead period for college coaches, but we still get contact with some of the state's and nation's best athletes.I caught up with three Texas targets for 2021 to better understand where they are with the Horns heading into the spring. Plus some Pylon 7-on-7 notes from Sunday's event in Fort Worth.Jonah Miller, 6'8, 300, Salpointe (Tucson, AZ) ---After a big season in 2019, Miller is looking to slim down and get his body reshaped for his final year at Salpointe Catholic."My plan over the offseason is to kind of shred some baby fat off and get just overall faster, more lean," said Miller. "I want to work more on my footwork and master those fundamental skills to push my game further than it already is.“Miller holds offers from the top west coast programs - Oregon, Washington, USC - as well as Florida and Tennessee. While the Ducks are the school to watch out west, he's still has eyes for Texas.“Texas is one of my top schools," said Miller. "The program speaks for itself. It would be great to maybe be a part of the rebuilding they are doing."Playing with former five-star teammate and current Texas signee Bijan Robinson isn't too shabby either.“Austin is one of my officials," Miller said. "I've been twice and can't wait to get back."This dude is all Texas. In 2021, the OL numbers will be interesting. I could see at least five, maybe six takes in this cycle. Miller might be a bird in the hand.Garrett Nussmeier, 6'2, 182, Flower Mound Marcus ---Texas, LSU, and North Carolina; those are the three schools that will get unofficial visits very soon. He's set a commitment date for April 12, 2020. Now, he won't go public for at least a week following, but he'd like to do it around Easter, when he'll be with his family and friends.The four-star signal-caller from Flower Mound Marcus picked up his Texas offer right after UT hired OC Mike Yurcich. He had a previous relationship with Yurcich from Okie State and Ohio State, and when Yurcich got the gig, he almost predicted an offer.He knows Texas wants two quarterbacks in 2021. He also knows Jalen Milroe is one of them. Right now, with LSU hiring Scott Linehan to replace Joe Brady, who worked with his father with the Dallas Cowboys, they might have the quiet lead. But Nussmeier spoke highly of Yurcich and Tom Herman, along with Mack Brown and Ed Orgeron.I'd expect to see Nussmeier in Austin over the next couple months. Along with Lubbock Coronado's Sawyer Roberston, Yurcich has identified who he wants to join the 2021 class.For LSU, five-star QB Caleb Williams might be the decider. If he doesn't choose Clemson, and picks the Tigers, then UT might lead with Nussmeier. Williams is a domino to watch.Deuce Harmon, 5'9, 182, Denton Guyer ---The 2021 defensive back was impressive Sunday. He can plant and go with great quickness. He also brings a dog mentality. He opened up on recruiting and 2020. Texas A&M and Notre Dame will be factors here, but a Texas offer would change things.On Pylon 7-on-7 and bonding with teammates:"I'm trying to get this good connection going and have a fun weekend with them. I'm ready for this 7-on-7 to start back up. I've been waiting since last year since it ended because we didn't really have good stuff going on. I've been hungry for this."On expectations for senior year:"I'm expecting to build on it. We're a little bit low, but I think we're going to find a way with our quarterback being out. We're going to hold it down until he gets back. Hopefully, he comes back stronger and that's what I'm praying for, but I think we'll be good." On improvements as a technician:"I always can improve on everything, even the stuff I'm good at - I still have more room for improvement. I want to be a student of the game and tell what they're running or have a good idea of the plays they're running before they hike the ball. That is always good and it's a matter of studying." On recruiting:"Texas A&M is pushing for me hard. Oklahoma State, SMU, TCU are all pushing for me hard. I just got Virginia Tech and they're going for me hard. Notre Dame is getting after me hard. I have big-time colleges trying to push for me."On Notre Dame:"They're telling me they really want me and I'd be a good fit for them not only on the football side, but the classroom side too."On the ND brand:"I feel good about them. I can't wait to go over there and take a visit. I'm going on April 4th."On Texas:"We have a good connection. I've worked out with him when I was young. What I've heard, they're waiting to see my press and if I can press and run. I know I can do that.You feel good about Texas?"I think they'll be offering me soon."A trio of 2022s will also be visiting Texas this spring. Four-star's Armani Winfield (Lewisville), Jadarian Price (Denison), and unranked Jay Rockwell (Spring Hill) are three that jump off the page.For Winfield, it's not the 26 offers from schools like Alabama, LSU, and Florida, it's the attention he gets from UT, Oklahoma, and Texas A&M. For the Horns, they stopped by Lewisville twice last month checking on the 6-foot-2, 190-pound pass-catcher. Winfield has been talking to coach Yurcich and coach Coleman. He's looking forward to getting back to Austin in March.For Price, I see one of the state's top tailbacks in the 2022 class. He joins Jaydon Blue (Klein Cain) and Emeka Megwa(FW Nolan Catholic) as my top junior ball-carriers in-state. Price will take visits this spring, with UT, Ohio State, and USC as potential spots. he hopes to build a better relationship with Stan Drayton and Mike Yurcich. This kid loves Texas, y'all.For Rockwell, it's a matter of time. At 6-foot-3, 188 pounds, he's the one most under the radar. With early offers from UTSA and Florida International, he's starting to here from bigger schools like UT, TCU, and Baylor. His older brother, Vincent, recently inked with Lamar. He's one to watch.BOLD PREDICTION: If Dallas Skyline WR Quay Davis' odds were Texas or the field, I'd say orange house.
  18. Mike Roach Stampede part 1 The 2021 recruiting cycle has been one of incredible ups and downs for the Texas staff. For each piece of good news, it seems that Texas faces a bit of bad news. In that spirit, I bring you another round of up and down news. Texas is surging for multiple targets on their board while they appear to be more of a wildcard for some others. As the recruiting class faces a pandemic that could shape it in unprecedented ways, the Texas staff plows ahead in hopes that a strong performance in the fall could change the trajectory of this class. We have so much information this week we've decided to double up on the amount of scoop we drop on Monday morning. In the first part of this week's edition of The Stampede, Horns247's weekly gathering of recruiting intel, we discuss the latest in tight end recruiting, new crystal ball picks in favor of the Longhorns, long term recruiting strategy for Texas and much more. WHERE DO THINGS STAND AT THE TIGHT END POSIITON? 2021 TE Landen King (Photo: Brian Perroni, 247Sports) Texas lost a commitment from Landen King on Friday. I spent the weekend digging deeper on the issue and, it sounds like there was really nothing Texas could do. I’ve been critical at times of the Texas staff in this cycle, but I’m not sure anyone could have done anything different to change the situation. King simply felt he made the decision too quickly and sources near him said he felt an attraction to the SEC. Nick Harris will have more on possible tight end options in part two of The Stampede. I mentioned that Georgia and Alabama were two schools recruiting him hard before picking Texas, and Auburn is in that mix as well. The Tigers are thought to be in strong position after landing a commitment from King’s close friend Dematrius Davis. Auburn is also targeting former Texas commit Lake McRee at the position. King is also still considering Texas, and I’m told that Texas still likes him despite the fact that a decommitment leaves some tension on both sides. I’d expect Texas to continue to pursue the Atascocita tight end while looking for other targets at the position. TEXAS SURGING FOR MULTIPLE TARGETS? Four-star cornerback Ishmael Ibraheem(Photo: Mike Roach, 247Sports) Late last night I entered a Texas crystal ball pick for four-star Kimball cornerback Ishmael Ibraheem. I’ve spoken in the past about the job Jay Valai and Chris Ash are doing with Ibraheem, and I feel they’ve moved into the lead. Texas is one of the schools Ibraheem was able to visit before the quarantine, and the coaches have been all over him since they arrived in Austin. One of the sources I spoke with in Austin said the Longhorns had Ibraheem very high on the board and viewed him as the player with the most upside at the position in the country. Add in Ibraheem’s relationship with Texas target JD Coffey who is also trending for the Longhorns and there are a lot of things working in favor of the Texas staff. I’ve heard Ibraheem could be closing in on a decision this summer and as soon as the next month or two. Pompano Beach (Fla.) Monarch WR Jaden Alexis (Photo: Andrew Ivins, 247Sports) I also entered a crystal ball for Pompano Beach (Fla.) Monarch wide receiver Jaden Alexis. This is a bit more of a projection with a slightly lower confidence score. I’ve heard really strong things about Texas and the speedy wide receiver, and a source I spoke with indicated the Texas staff felt strong about where they stood. My only trepidation is a lack of strong sourcing in Florida. So far, everyone I spoke with out there acknowledged Texas was a school on Alexis’ mind, but they were having a hard time reading him right now. This is one I’m going to enter and monitor closely over the next few months and the story will be how high or how low the confidence score goes. WHERE DOES TEXAS STAND WITH KETRON JACKSON? (Photo: Mike Roach, 247Sports) Speaking of wide receivers, I’ve been doing some digging on Royse City wide receiver Ketron Jackson. The four-star pass catcher remains quiet, but Texas has been trying to come on since offering in March. The Longhorns are at a bit of a disadvantage with the inability to host visits and Jackson made the rounds to the other schools on his list before the quarantine. In talking with Jackson and those around him, I get the feeling Texas will hang around in this race though it’s tough to get a true read on it. In talking to sources, Arkansas and TCU are the schools mentioned for him the most while Baylor holds strong position (despite having almost a full class at receiver already). The idea I get is that Texas is a bit of a wildcard in this race, and their long-term outlook is almost directly tied to how long Jackson waits on his recruitment and how Texas plays this fall. WHO HOLDS THE EDGE FOR ANDREW MUKUBA? Over the last week I’ve tried to dive in on Andrew Mukuba to determine where things stand with the Austin LBJ safety. He recently released a Top 12, but right now, it sounds like only three schools are a factor in the equation for him. Texas, Clemson and LSU are the ones I hear the most for Mukuba and the leader depends on when and who you talk to. One source I spoke with said Mukuba is tough to nail down because he frequently changes his focus when talking behind the scenes. Chris Ash is working diligently in this recruitment and I’m told that Mukuba has an affinity for him. That said, other schools have been in his ear about instability on the Texas staff. It will be interesting to see Mukuba’s actions once quarantine lifts and he’s able to take visits. TEXAS STILL IN CONTACT WITH COMMITTED PROSPECTS LSU commit JoJo Earle (Photo: Mike Roach, 247Sports) Fall results are starting to play a big role in the way this recruiting cycle will ultimately unfold. A source I spoke with said the staff understands what’s at stake and feels they have the experience necessary to win this year with the current state of Big 12 turnover. If they do, they feel they might be able to flip some guys down the line or capitalize once the expected wave of decommitments hits this fall. The staff is trying to keep in contact with everyone, and that includes targets that have already made commitments. I’m told that contact with Clayton Smith is running cold since he committed to Oklahoma, but the Longhorns have been able to keep the lines of communication open with LSU commits JoJo Earle and Landon Jackson. Don’t take this to mean that either of those guys are close to decommitting because I believe they are solid in their commitments, but the continued communication could be the difference maker if the Longhorns have a big year. BACKGROUND ON NEWEST TEXAS OFFER The Texas staff made a few offers over the weekend, and one I really liked was Garland Lakeview Centennial DL Ikechukwu Iwunnah. The big defensive lineman is raw, but at 6-foot-4, 275 pounds, he shows some interesting things on film. Iwunnah also competes in track and field where he throws the discus and even triple jumped at an event this year. I’m a big fan of finding athletic big frames on the defensive line and developing them, and that’s what it looks like Texas is targeting here. The Longhorns have been in contact with Iwunnah for about a month before offering and it sounds like the Centennial staff has been pleased by their approach. Mark Hagen is the lead on this recruitment and I’m told Texas is expected to be a front runner. Iwunnah is the teammate of five-star running back Camar Wheaton, but it sounds doesn’t sound like Iwunnah will influence him much. I was told it won’t hurt, but it probably wouldn’t help that much either way. Centennial is loaded with talent this year. Outside of Wheaton and Iwunnah, Lakeview Centennial’s center Ezra Oyetade is another guy with a ton of upside on the offensive line. I’m told the Longhorns have looked into Oyetade as well but they haven’t offered as of yet.
×
×
  • Create New...