Wednesday, March 3, 2010

Underclassmen compete at Miami NUC Barton Simmons Recruiting Analyst


February 25, 2010
Underclassmen compete at Miami NUC
MORE: Houston NUC: Underclassmen standouts | Rivals.com Scouting the Nation 2010

COOPER CITY, Fla. - Ft. Lauderdale (Fla.) St. Thomas Aquinas was undoubtedly one of the most talented teams in the nation last season. Ten players from its roster signed scholarships to FBS programs after an undefeated season ended with an upset loss in the state semifinals. The only downside to having such a talented team is finding replacements to step in.

Dami Ayoola won the running back MVP award.
On Saturday at Cooper City High School, a few of those potential replacements emerged.

One of those prospects is running back Dami Ayoola. Ayoola, who took home the running back MVP award, has decent size at 5 feet 8.5 and 192 pounds with good speed and good pass-catching ability. He clocked in at 4.66 in the 40 while also showed good hands and body control out of the backfield. Of all the backs at the event Ayoola looked the most natural with the ball in his hands.

While Ayoola was tops at his position, his teammate Joseph McClary was certainly among the best at his position as well. McClary is only 5-7 and a slight 136 pounds but if he can add an inch or two and some weight over the next two years, he is very reminiscent of former teammate Cody Riggs of the 2010 class. McClary ran a 4.51 in the 40, his shuttle time was a 4.27, his standing broad jump was an impressive 9 feet 5 inches and he even has strength with 17 reps at the bench press.

McClary was extremely fluid in his backpedal, showing good feet, quickness and instincts. McClary definitely needs to develop physically but has all the tools to add to St. Thomas Aquinas' defensive back lineage.

The third St. Thomas Aquinas standout was at wide receiver in Gavin Sinclair. Another player that was slightly undersized at 5-10 145 pounds, Sinclair makes up for average speed with great change of direction and a 4.1 shuttle time. His route-running and ability to get separation helped him stand out as one of the better wide receivers at the event.

Though St. Thomas Aquinas had a strong representation at the event, it still was not home to the top college prospect in attendance. That distinction may well go to Deon Bush out of Miami (Fla.) Columbus. The sophomore safety has the complete package. He has good height at 6-1 and a 165-pound frame that should easily add weight over his high school career. The testing numbers were there for Bush with a 4.58 40, a 4.11 shuttle and a remarkable 10-2 standing broad jump.

Deon Bush may have been the top college prospect in attendance.
All of that is irrelevant if Bush doesn't have coverage ability but his athleticism was quite functional. He was physical but had the hips to turn and run with receivers as well as natural coverage instincts.

Purely on an athletic level though, no prospect could top Ryan Janvionout of Dade Christian. Janvion was an average 5-10, 169 pounds but his testing was phenomenal. As an athlete prospect, he ran a 4.58 in the 40, a 3.99 in the shuttle, had a 38.5-inch vertical and a broad jump of 10-7. With the exception of the 40, all of his marks were tops at the camp.

Class of 2011 prospect Davonte Allen worked out among the 2012 kids and showed great size and athleticism at wide receiver. He's 6-2, 176 pounds with a 4.68 40 and explosive athleticism, evidenced by his 10-1 broad jump. Formerly at Glades Day, Allen has transferred to Glades Central and should add another scary threat to its already potent receiving corps. Currently, Allen is getting the most interest from Marshall to this point.

On the other end of the spectrum there was a 2013 prospect working out that looked very much at home against the older prospects. Leon McQuay IIIout of Armwood High School looks like he could be a superstar in a few years. He already looks the part at 6-1 and 176 pounds. He got significant playing time as a freshman for Armwood but at this point he could project any number of places depending on his development.

McQuay already looks like a safety, and has the ability to play safety but he wants to grow into a defensive end. The reality may be somewhere in the middle as he could end up at outside linebacker in the end. McQuay, the brother of 2010 standout Khiry McQuay, is very reminiscent of Florida signee Gideon Ajagbe at the same stage of development.

Other standouts on the day included Elston Lane, a wide receiver out of Gulliver Prep, Larry Byrd, a speedy wide receiver out of Norland, cornerback Adrian Burton out of Pompano Beach Ely, linebacker Keith Brownout of Norland, and at quarterback Kevis Jones out of Northeast. 

Sophomores shine at Miami NUC Barton Simmons Recruiting Analyst


Sophomores shine at Miami NUC
MORE: Miami NUC: Underclassmen standouts | Rivals.com Scouting the Nation 2010


COOPER CITY, Fla. - The Miami National Underclassmen Combine was supposed to showcase some of the top juniors in the South Florida region. As it turned out, the prospects that stole the show were a pair of sophomores.

Danny Isidora of Weston (Fla.) Cypress Bay and Abraham Garcia of Ft. Lauderdale (Fla.) University School don't look like sophomores. Isidora is a 6-foot-4, 320-pound offensive tackle; Garcia is 6 feet 6 and weighs 339 pounds. As big as they are, neither prospect carries the weight badly. They have very little body fat for sophomore linemen. They also both ran extremely well, Isidora clocking a 5.5 40-yard dash and Garcia reaching the 5.4 mark.

Danny Isidora was one of two sophomore offensive linemen who stood out at the Miami National Underclassmen Combine.
Once the one-on-ones began, both prospects performed well during the period. Isidora is the more ready of the two right now. He has a huge base, good feet and a little bit of a nasty streak -which you like in a lineman.

Garcia also showed some flashes of terrific ability in one-on-ones. His body and feet are phenomenal for a big kid, and he moves effortlessly in his pass-set. The only knock on Garcia right now is he is not physical enough. He plays almost as if he's scared he is going to hurt his opponent. Once he lets lose a little bit and plays with a little more recklessness, the sky is the limit for him.

Though they were the only sophomores to have dominating performances, Garcia and Isidora were not the only duo in a position group to separate themselves from the pack. There were several defensive backs that had strong days, but the two that made the biggest impact were Anthon Samuel and Darryl Brown.

Samuel is a 5-foot-11, 171-pounder that can play either safety or cornerback. He has enough size to bring a physical presence, but he also showed great instincts and reaction. He appears to have enough natural ability to develop into a cornerback.

Brown, the co-MVP at the defensive back position, is a pure cover corner. He doesn't have great size at only 5-9 and 150 pounds, but he's extremely polished at the position. He displayed great feet and instincts. Brown wasn't a blazer in the 40 (4.68), but he is very quick out of his breaks. He was as effective as anyone in coverage.

The overall MVP of the camp was a wide receiver that did everything well. Andrew Flory of American Heritage was solid across the board all day. He caught the ball well with his hands, making both the spectacular catches and the routine ones. Though he doesn't have elite speed, he's able to create separation with good routes and body control. He also has the mental toughness to finish the play.

 Perhaps the top overall athlete at the combine was Courtney Moshood out of LaSalle. He was certainly the top tester. Moshood, a wide receiver, ran the fastest 40 with a time of 4.45. He also ran the shuttle in 4.10 seconds and had a 38-inch vertical leap.

 At linebacker, Joey Lohmann stands out simply because of his physique. He is 6-foot-1, 225 pounds with no bad weight. He also tested well, running a 4.7 in the 40 and a 4.1 shuttle. He is a little bit stiff in coverage and is definitely a true middle linebacker, but his performance was good enough to land him the linebacker MVP.

 Michael Fratianni is an interesting prospect at tight end. He is light right now at only 206 pounds, but at 6-foot-4 he has a good frame. More importantly, Fratianni has soft hands and great body-control. If he is physical in the run game and can add some weight, he could be a sleeper at tight end. 

Dutchtown SS tops at sophomore event by Tensey Pricer PelicanPreps.com Publisher


February 28, 2010
Dutchtown SS tops at sophomore event
Dutchtown strong safety Landon Collins was named the Combine King and Overall MVP at Saturday's Sophomore National Underclassman Combine event at Zachary High School. The event drew nearly 200 kids from throughout Louisiana.

There is little doubt Collins will be one of the Class of 2012's top prospects. The 5-foot-11.5, 199 pounder posted the fastest 40-yard dash time at 4.48 seconds and also had the best vertical leap of 35.5 inches. Factor in an impressive broad jump of 10 feet, 6 inches and his 24 bench reps at 155 pounds.

Landon Collins was Combine King with the fastest 40 time at 4.48 seconds.
Collins also performed extremely well in defensive back drills and one-on-one drills. He is fast, but alo very physical with great ball skills as well. He can legitimately play every position in the secondary and is physical enough to project at a linebacker spot.

"I just work hard to keep up with the fastest guys on my team," Collins said, smiling.

The future continues to look bright to Lutcher. The Bulldogs had four players share MVP honors. Teammates Kyron Jackson and Ian Podufalski were Defensive Backs Co-MVPs. Podufalski ran the event's fastest shuttle time of 4.19 seconds and Jackson was impressive in drills.

Standout Bulldogs running back Daniel Taylor, who already has several major unofficial scholarship offers, was the Running Backs Co-MVP with Peabody's Jalen Richard. Lutcher wide receiver Dorian Simien was a Wide Receivers Co-MVP along with Donaldsonville's Devon Breaux.

The Linebackers MVP was Sulphur standout Holden Rogerswhose sophomore video was recently featured on PelicanPreps.com.

The Quarterbacks MVP was Teurlings Catholic's D'Shaie Landor, who was fantastic in agility drills and then put on the most impressive passing display in drills and one-on-ones.

The Offensive Line MVP was Beau Chene's Jordy Wyble, who consistently dominated against an impressive collection of defensive linemen. The Defensive Lineman MVP was Justin Woods, who was literally unblockable.

The Strongest Man went to Dutchtown's Aaron Davis, who benched 185 pounds 28 times.

Stay tuned to PelicanPreps.com for more stories -- and photo galleries -- on players from both the sophomore and junior combines.

Milton, Douglas do it again at NUC by Tensey Pricer PelicanPreps.com Publisher


March 2, 2010
Milton, Douglas do it again at NUC
David Schuman, director of the National Underclassmen Combines, has conducted events all over the country for years. But he said no state churns out athletes and eye-popping combine scores like Louisiana.

Schuman was reminded of such on Sunday for the Junior NUC Showcase and Combine at Zachary High School. And several of the event's MVPs were familiar names.

Running back Derrick Milton took the Overall MVP this time around.
The Overall MVP was Pineville running back Derrick Milton, who for the two previous years was the Combine King. He tested well once again, posting a 39.5-inch vertical leap to go along with 9-foot-10 broad jump, a 4.57-second 40-yard dash and a 4.49 shuttle.

He also did well in position drills and in the showcase, displaying his explosive play and great hips. Milton -- who's eligibility under LHSAA rules will expire right before the start of the 2010 season because of his age -- said next season he will be playing at Hargrave Military Academy.

"It is exciting to finally win the Overall MVP," Milton said. "Two years in a row I was the Combine King and I really wanted the MVP."

Last year's Overall MVP in the sophomore event, quarterback Stevie Douglas, had to settle for Quarterback MVP on Sunday. At 6-foot-4, 196 pounds, the home school player for the Baton Rouge Christian Patriots looks the part. But he also delivered in the position drills and the showcase. He has a tremendous arm and a very quick release.

Ironically, Douglas has not been able to throw much during his career with his home school team given the often limited talent and experience level of his teammates. That's why performing well at events like the NUC have been so valuable.

Home School quarterback Stevie Douglas was the Quarterback MVP.
"(Winning the MVP last year) changed my recruiting," Douglas said. "That really got me going. I've always been known for having a strong arm, but I really have not been able to show that in games because of inexperienced receivers. Last year we had just seven players out for spring practice before recruiting some more."

Douglas said that there are only 13 on the team now. Like last year, he is bracing for the possibility of not being able to field a team. He and his family will likely be weighing a number of options, including playing for a tradition high school football program.

The Combine King was Thibodaux standout Raheem Richard, who ran a 4.44 in the 40 and had a 39-inch vertical leap. The 5-foot-7, 152-pound Richard said he is holding offers from Ole Miss, UCLA, and Southern Miss. The offers are for either running back or slot receiver.

The event's Fastest Man honor went to Cecilia's Montrel Carter, who ran a 4.40. He also had a 4.41 shuttle, an 8-6 broad and a 31-inch vertical leap. Carter is a second cousin to recent TCU signee Curtis Carter of North DeSoto, who coincidently was the NUC's Fastest Man last year.

The competition was so fierce for many of the position awards that there were a number of Co-MVPs. Even for the Strongest Man crown, two players both ripped off 33 reps at 185 pounds, including last year's strongest man, Darren Harrell of Marksville. The 6-foot, 435-pounder guard was also an Offensive Lineman Co-MVP, showing off tremendous footwork for a player over 400 pounds.

Thibodaux's Raheem Richard was the Combine King.
The other Offensive Lineman MVP was the towering, 6-6 Southern Lab tackle Ezekiel Alexander, who despite being raw, his tremendous wingspan helped him control virtually every would-be pass rusher. The other Strongest Man was Northshore defensive lineman Tyler Porter, who also had 33 reps.

Another Northshore player, defensive lineman Brandon Taylor, and Shaw's Donald Phillips were the Defensive Lineman Co-MVPs with both showing quick feet and excellent technique against stout offensive linemen.

Thibodaux's Joshua Johnson rose to the top of a solid running back crew to win Running Back MVP. Johnson tested well, including a 33-inch vertical leap, and then displayed a good combination of agility in drills and one-on-ones, coupled with a great attitude and leadership.

There were Co-MVPs for a very deep wide receivers group. Wilkinson County, Miss., standout Devin Fosselman was very impressive during the showcase, grabbing every ball thrown his way. Ellender's Jermaine Johnson was quite a find, though. At 6-3, 168 pounds, Johnson posted a blazing 4.47 40, a 9-8 broad, and a 34-inch vertical leap. He had good hands on top of it all.

There were Co-MVPs for both the defensive backs and the linebackers.

The defensive backs were Belle Chasse's Brock Matherne, the younger brother of former Mr. Football Blake Matherne, and Central's James Richardson. Matherne had a 4.5 40, a 30-inch vertical and 24 reps in the bench to go with outstanding eyes and hips in the drills. Richardson was among the day's fastest with a 4.46 40-yard dash.

The linebackers were Ascension Catholic's Parris Stewart, who tested well and looked the part in the showcase and drills, and Hammond's Matthew Brown, who posted a 4.54 in the 40 and is put together well at 5-foot-9, 196 pounds.

NUC Baton Rouge WR MVP Junior Day-Devin Fosselman and Jermaine Johnson




Jacksonville NUC: Underclassmen standouts by Barry Every, Rivals.com


March 1, 2010
Jacksonville NUC: Underclassmen standouts
MORE: Houston NUC: Underclassmen standouts | Rivals.com Scouting the Nation 2010
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - On an unseasonably cold day on Florida's First Coast, approximately 140 underclassmen gathered at Jacksonville (Fla.) Raines High School to show off their football acumen.
The skill position players that were the hot topic of the day.
Below are those athletes that caught the attention of National Recruiting Analyst Barry Every.

Jacksonville National Underclassmen Combine Standouts: 2012/2013 class
TONY CLARK, 5-11/190, RB DOUGLASVILLE (GA.) COFFEE (2012)
ASSETS: Tremendous overall body structure and excellent growth potential. Clark also has good speed.
AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT: Needs to work on catching the ball away from his body at its highest point.
WHAT WAS MOST IMPRESSIVE: Ran an incredible 4.5 40 on a bad surface while jumping 35½ inches in the vertical testing. Not only did he run the fastest 40 of the day, he ran away with the title of Combine King.
CONCLUSION: No question that Clark has the size and overall athletic ability to play FBS football. Don't be surprised if he grows into a huge outside linebacker before it is all said and done.
MARCUS CLARK, 5-6/164, APB, TALLAHASSEE (FLA.) CHILES (2013)
ASSETS: Has good body structure, soft hands and above average speed.
AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT: Clark will need to add some overall size and weight in order to get a ton of looks as a running back.
WHAT WAS MOST IMPRESSIVE: On top of running the fastest time for all freshmen at a 4.6, he was able to come out of the backfield and consistently catch the ball while showing the ability to get upfield in a hurry.
CONCLUSION: He has three more years to add the needed size and strength while improving his overall skills as a football player. I would say the odds are better than 50/50 that he will end up signing a football scholarship.
J.J. GREEN, 5-8/160, CB, KINGSLAND (GA.) CAMDEN COUNTY (2013)
ASSETS: Very physical, has good ball skills and above-average recovery speed.
AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT: Sometimes he is too aggressive, leaving himself susceptible to a double move by the receiver.
WHAT WAS MOST IMPRESSIVE: Displayed the best ability coming out of his backpedal and making a play on the ball. Green also physically intimidated several receivers off the line of scrimmage. His efforts earned him DB MVP.
CONCLUSION: Green plays at a high-profile school that is fresh off an AAAAA state title. With three more years left in high school, he will surely catch the attention of several college coaches.
JOSEPH JACKSON, 6-1/186, OLB, JACKSONVILLE (FLA.) FIRST COAST (2012)
ASSETS: Has excellent overall body structure, very quick feet and tremendous growth potential. Jackson really took to coaching at the event.
AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT: Staying low in his backpedal and keeping his balance while changing directions. Jackson is very raw and just needs more practice time to hone his skills.
WHAT WAS MOST IMPRESSIVE: This high-effort competitor was able to run a legit 4.73 40, shuttle a 4.38, while jumping 29 inches in the vertical. Jackson had to leave early but made sure to shake everyone's hand and thank them for the opportunity to learn at this event.
CONCLUSION: There is no question that he possesses the size and overall athletic ability to play at the highest level. It really is going to come down to what happens when the pads are on and the ball is being run right at him. Jackson's high school has pumped out several good athletes over the last few years, and he could bet the next.
ANDRE JOHNSON, 5-10/181, CB, OCALA (FLA.) TRINITY CATHOLIC (2012)
ASSETS: Has excellent overall size and a powerful body structure for a defensive back.
AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT: Needs to improve overall speed just a tad.
WHAT WAS MOST IMPRESSIVE: He may have been the most physical corner. Johnson was able to use his size to his advantage and push receivers off course. His performance did not go unnoticed; he won the Sophomore DB MVP award.
CONCLUSION: Ocala (Fla.) Trinity Catholic is really starting to build a reputation of producing good talent. Johnson should be one of several players on his team that sign scholarships over the next two years.
PERRY ORTH, 6-1/186, PQB, JACKSONVILLE (FLA.) EPISCOPAL (2012)
ASSETS: Excellent rotation on his passes and very accurate. He also showed above-average footwork.
AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT: Add some size and strength while improving his overall athleticism, which will give him the ability to buy more time in the pocket.
WHAT WAS MOST IMPRESSIVE: Had the best follow through of any quarterback. He has an NFL wrist flick, which causes the ball to come out like a bullet leaving the barrel of a rifle. Orth earned QB MVP honors for the sophomore class.
CONCLUSION: He only split time at the quarterback position this past season. He really needs to get more game opportunities before a decision is made on whether he can play football at the highest level.
JUSTIN OSBORNE, 5-9/143,WR, JACKSONVILLE (FLA.) FIRST COAST (2012)
ASSETS: Possesses good speed, exceptional quickness and very soft hands.
AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT: He will definitely need to add some size and strength over the next two seasons. Osborne may find it really hard to get off the jam versus physical corners at his current weight. Added size and strength will also make him less susceptible to injuries.
WHAT WAS MOST IMPRESSIVE: He did the best job of selling his routes. He also made sharp cuts, which created huge gaps between him and the defender. Osborne was the most consistent pass receiver on the day. His stellar showing earned him Overall MVP honors for the sophomore class.
CONCLUSION: Has the ability, but lacks ideal size at this time. Osborne is at a high-profile high school for college recruiters and still has two more years to get bigger. The chances are better than 50/50 that he will end up signing a scholarship at the highest level.
SHAKEEL RASHAD, 6-2/206, OLB, JACKSONVILLE (FLA.) EPISCOPAL (2012)
ASSETS: Excellent overall size and growth potential. He has good speed and overall athleticism.
AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT: Rashad needs to keep his feet under himself at all times while in pass coverage. Sometimes he was a tendency to get off balance, making it difficult to come out of his backpedal and break on the ball.
WHAT WAS MOST IMPRESSIVE: Perhaps the top overall prospect based on testing numbers and on the hoof. Rashad ran a 4.7 flat, while jumping 31 inches.
CONCLUSION: It is not out of the realm of possibility that he grows into a weakside defensive end. Rashad is also an excellent student. This will only amplify the number of offers he will receive one year from now.
BRICE RAMSEY, 6-2/182, PQB, KINGSLAND (GA.) CAMDEN COUNTY (2013)
ASSETS: Has excellent size for his age, good footwork, excellent arm strength and superb throwing mechanics.
AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT: Improve overall athletic ability and continue to get physically stronger.
WHAT WAS MOST IMPRESSIVE: At times, Ramsey throws the football as good as any rising senior in the country. Not only did he show off a big arm, but he had uncanny accuracy. He was a runaway winner for Overall MVP honors in the freshman class.
CONCLUSION: Ramsey really just needs the opportunity to play at the highest level. Many fear he will not get that opportunity to display his talents because he is in a Wing-T offense. I strongly disagree because he will be taking snaps under center, which is becoming a lost art. Takings snaps under center is an essential task in the development of a quarterback.
WILLIAM ZIRZOW, 6-5/191, PQB, FLEMING ISLAND (FLA.) (2013)
ASSETS: Exceptional height, good throwing motion and above average accuracy.
AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT: Needs to improve his overall footwork, especially getting depth on his drops.
WHAT WAS MOST IMPRESSIVE: His overall size will surely attract college coaches looking for the traditional NFL-sized quarterback. At times he showed excellent arm strength and truly looked the part of an elite prospect. Zirzow's effort earned him QB MVP honors for the class of 2013.
CONCLUSION: Has all the physical tools to be a national recruit. Zirzow really just needs game experience. Playing time will help him learn how to read defenses and make precise decisions at the line of scrimmage.
OTHERS WHO IMPRESSED:
Javakiel Brigham, RB, Blountstown (Fla.) (2013); Ulysses Bryant, ATH, Jacksonville (Fla.) Robert E. Lee (2013); Ian Caldwell, CB, Jacksonville (Fla.) First Coast; Sherard James, RB, Jacksonville (Fla.) Robert E. Lee;Marquel Holmes, ILB, Ocala (Fla.) Trinity Catholic; Greyson Lambert, PQB, Jesup (Ga.) Wayne County;Kendrick Singleton, S, Glen St Mary (Fla.) Baker County; Deshone Walker, WR, Jacksonville (Fla.) Cedar Creek Christian School; Dominic Washington, WR, Tallahassee (Fla.) Chiles (2013); Lorenzo Washington, CB, Ocala (Fla.) Trinity Catholic.

Jacksonville NUC: Class of 2011 standouts by Barry Every of Rivals.com


March 2, 2010
Jacksonville NUC: Class of 2011 standouts
MORE: Jacksonville NUC: Underclassmen standouts | Rivals.com Scouting the Nation 2010
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - Two linemen stole the spotlight on the second day of the NUC event in Jacksonville.
Two-way player Chris Jones from the host Raines High School had several heated battles against Chris Terryof Jacksonville (Fla.) First Coast.
Below is a breakdown of those two warriors along with the other top performers as seen by Rivals.com National Recruiting Analyst Barry Every.

Jacksonville National Underclassmen Combine Standouts: 2011 class
BRYAN HOLMES, 6-0/170, WR, LAKE BUTLER (FLA.) UNION COUNTY
ASSETS: Has excellent speed, change of direction and overall athletic ability.
AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT: Needs to work on catching the ball away from his body.
WHAT WAS MOST IMPRESSIVE: Put up the fastest 40 time of the two-day event with a 4.55 on an extremely slow surface.
CONCLUSION: Must be something about speed and Lake Butler, Florida. Holmes could be a serious deep threat and a possible kick returner at the next level. If his junior film matches up with his athletic ability he should start receiving offers soon.
JABARI HUNT-DAYS, 6-2/224, OLB, POWDER SPRINGS (GA.) HILLGROVE
ASSETS: Tremendous overall size and athletic ability which is a dangerous combination.
AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT: Could improve his lateral movement and add muscle mass and strength in his upper body.
WHAT WAS MOST IMPRESSIVE: Did an excellent job turning and running stride for stride with faster, smaller backs. Hunt-Days also put up some nice testing numbers running a 4.8 40, 4.42 shuttle and jumping 33 inches in the vertical testing.
CONCLUSION: Already has a MAC offer from Toledo, but I am certain that many more are on their way. Hunt- Days could project as an OLB, ILB or even a WDE. He really reminds me of former Gamecock Eric Norwood.
JALEN JOHNSON, 6-2/180, S, TALLAHASSEE (FLA.) RICKARDS
ASSETS: Has excellent height, covers a lot of real estate, and has serious ball skills for a defensive back.
AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT: Needs to work on staying lower in his backpedal, thus keeping his balance and making it easier to change directions.
WHAT WAS MOST IMPRESSIVE: Recorded numerous picks during the one-on-ones and final showcase. It was amazing watching someone that tall and lean stay with much smaller receivers.
CONCLUSION: Based on this camp and his reported academic standing he should definitely be considered a mid-level to BCS-level recruit. He has the size, ball skills and ability to excel on most special teams.
CHRIS JONES, 6-5/260, OT/DT, JACKSONVILLE (FLA.) RAINES
ASSETS: Possesses the desirable height, effort level and overall athletic ability for an offensive lineman.
AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT: Must improve his size and strength from the waist down. This will only improve his powerbase and ability to dominate opponents.
WHAT WAS MOST IMPRESSIVE: Worked out as a DE, DT and OT at the event and was part of some heated exchanges with Chris Terry.
CONCLUSION: Currently has an East Carolina offer, but with his willingness to play offensive tackle I expect his recruiting to skyrocket. There is a shortage of quality offensive linemen in this 2011 class and he definitely fits the bill.
GEORGE MAXEY, 6-0/196, RB/S, JACKSONVILLE (GA.) RAINES
ASSETS: Has magnificent overall body structure, is an excellent student, possesses good character and possesses above-average athleticism.
AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT: Must improve overall flexibility and forward body lean if he wants to be a tailback at the next level.
WHAT WAS MOST IMPRESSIVE: Demonstrated excellent ball skills while catching passes out of the backfield. Maxey also displayed very quick feet, making it hard for the linebackers to lay a hand on him.
CONCLUSION: Already has three BCS offers from Duke, Georgia Tech and Illinois. He is being recruited as a SS and a RB, but do not be surprised if he ends up a speedy, muscular outside linebacker.
MICHAEL SHOWERS, 6-2/185, WR, KINGSLAND (GA.) CAMDEN COUNTY
ASSETS: Has good height, excellent upper body strength and above-average hands.
AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT: Could improve overall speed and change of direction just a tad.
WHAT WAS MOST IMPRESSIVE: His overall size and ability to make catches when covered set him apart from most of the other receivers. Showers also sacrificed his body by showing the willingness to go down low and keep balls from hitting the playing surface.
CONCLUSION: Missed most of last year with an injury and plays in a run-oriented offense which does not help his visibility to college coaches. Showers must hit the camp circuit this spring in order to show off his skill set.
CHRIS TERRY II, 6-4/230, SDE, JACKSONVILLE (FLA.) FIRST COAST
ASSETS: A tremendous frame to build upon, quick hands, and a high-effort participant.
AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT: Needs to improve pad level at the point of attack and add upper body size and strength.
WHAT WAS MOST IMPRESSIVE: During the one-on-ones he used his hands like a martial artist, carving up offensive linemen and throwing them to the wayside.
CONCLUSION: Did not participate in football last season, so a lot of his recruiting will depend upon the camp circuit and spring ball. He clearly has serious tools and could project as a SDE or even as DT one day.
OTHERS WHO IMPRESSED:
Oreion Cobbs, CB, Jacksonville (Fla.) University Christian; Reginald Martin, WR, Jacksonville (Fla.) Ed White;Ey'Shawn McClain, ILB, Jacksonville (Fla.) Raines (2012); Jalen Simmons, S, Kingsland (Ga.) Camden County

NUC Top Prospect Bernard Thomas, Blue Spring HS, Class of 2011, DB

NUC Top Prospect Bernard Thomas, Blue Spring HS, Class of 2011, DB

Bernard has tremendous feet, athleticism and ball skills, his break on the ball and acceleration whether coming up on the run or making a play on the pass, makes him a great Defensive threat. An NUC MVP and u100 Top Prospect Camp Top 5 DB Bernard should be a 10 plus offer DB.

http://rivals.yahoo.com/video/recruiting-football/Bernard-Thomas-Highlights-1-84399

Monday, March 1, 2010

NUC Hawaii Article-Underclassmen Show Promise in Hawaii!

Underclassmen Show Promise in Hawaii!

The NUC hit beautiful Aloha Stadium last weekend in Honolulu, HI not knowing to what to expect. This was the first time they hit the same place where athletes are regularly subjected to subpar recruiting since this gorgeous island is literally disconnected from the United States map. Even though Hawaii isn’t particularly known for homegrown football talent, we have every reason to believe that they will be producing a number of terrific players in the near future.

Saint Louis HS’ Jeremy Tabuyo won the Overall MVP and Fastest Man award. A skilled 5’10 166 lb wide receiver, Tabuyo had an 8’7 broad jump, ran a 4.32, 4.51 50 and did a great job during the individual period. His quickness caused major problems for the DB’s and he has good hands.

Reeve Koehler, the OL MVP and Strongest Man, was literally larger than life (or at least the current freshman). Koehler dominated during 1 on 1’s, bench pressed 155 lbs 29 times and had solid athleticism for a big man. I can only imagine what it is like for an athlete one year out of 8th grade to match up against this Saint Louis HS giant.

At 5’4 135 lbs, Keoni Piceno – also from the Ultra talented Saint Louis HS - was definitely undersized, but had more than enough talent to compensate for it. Piceno ran a 4.49 shuttle, bench pressed 135 lbs 18 times and did a terrific job during 1 on 1’s en route to claiming the Combine King. He needs to get bigger, but his quickness makes him a threat nonetheless.

Kailua HS’ Jarrin Young, the top RB of the day, is quick, athletic and has a great push. The 5’7 153 lb young ran a 4.48 shuttle, had an 8’4 broad jump and was easily the best player at his position during 1 on 1’s.

Jacob Lacade, yet another star from Saint Louis HS, was by far the best 8th grader at the camp. Lacade had an 8’1 broad jump, ran a 4.48 shuttle (sensational for a player his age), and displayed a ton of potential at linebacker during 1 on 1’s. The 8th grade MVP and LB MVP already has a lot of skill.

In addition to finding out that Saint Louis HS is Hawaii’s Don Bosco, we now know this little Island has plenty of big time players on the gridiron.

NUC Hawaii-HONOLUNU HI 8TH - 9TH grade NUC Schuman’s Outstanding Performance List


HONOLUNU HI 8TH - 9TH grade NUC Schuman’s Outstanding Performance List
Jeremy Tabuyo
Saint Louis HS, HI
9th
WR #50
Tabuyo stole the show at inaugural freshman session in Hawaii, taking home the Overall MVP and Fastest Man award. Tabuyo, 5’10.5 166, had an 8’7 broad jump, ran a 4.32 shuttle, 4.51 50 and starred during 1 on 1’s. If Hawaii continues to produce players like Tabuyo, expect to see recruiters coming over in hula necklaces!

Jacob Lacade
Saint Louis HS, HI
8th
LB #30
Lacade, 5’8 162, won the 8th Grade and LB MVP. Ladace had an 8’1 broad jump, ran a 4.48 shuttle, led by example and did a great job during 1 on 1’s.

Malik Lockett
Kapolei HS, HI
9th
WR #15
Lockett took home the WR MVP after a solid day on the gridiron. At 5’9 135, Lockett ran a 4.32 shuttle, had great hands and ran solid routes during 1 on 1’s.

Keanu Kaira
Kapoki HS, HI
9th
WR #18
Karia, 5’4.5 137, was the DB MVP award winner. Kariya played with great intensity and wrecked havoc on the offense during 1 on 1’s.

Reeve Koehler
Saint Louis HS, HI
9th
OL #98
A monstrous 6’3 279 lber, Koehler won the OL MVP and Strongest Man award. Koehler bench pressed 155 lbs 28 times, had a 29 inch vertical, had great power during 1 on 1’s and was very coachable. I don’t believe I have ever seen a freshman as physical as Koehler.

Jarrin Young
Kailua HS, HI
9th
RB #14
Young may be exactly that but after taking home the RB MVP, he showed why his future looks very bright. At 5’7 153, Young had an 8’4 broad jump, ran a 4.48 shuttle and displayed terrific quickness during 1 on 1’s.

Justin Tago
James Campbell HS, HI
9th
QB #20
Tago, 5’8 140, won the QB MVP. Tago had very good accuracy, impressive arm strength for a freshman and good fundamentals.

Solomon Leatno
Campbell HS, HI
9th
LB #59
Leatno, 5’8 177, picked up the Leadership award. Leatno kept the other players fired up and hustled throughout the event. He was a pleasure to coach and would be an asset to any team.

Keoni Piceno
Saint Louis HS, HI
9th
WR #57
Piceno was crowned Combine King. At 5’4 135, Piceno ran a 4.49 shuttle, bench pressed 135 lbs 18 and did a nice job during 1 on 1’s. Saint Louis HS sure looks like king of the island!


NUC Exclusive Interview with: Marcus Nesbitt, HOUSTON LB MVP SOPHOMORE

Coach Schuman: What did you do to prepare for the National Underclassmen Combine?
Marcus Nesbitt: I worked with my football coach to prepare, him and my track coach gave me drills and workouts to get right for the combine.

Coach Schuman:Have you been to the NUC before? How did you do? What were your expectations going into this years event?
Marcus Nesbitt: Yes, I went to NUC when I was a freshman and didn't do to good, I didn't even make it to the U100 camp, so this year i knew what was needed to get noticed at the camp and just improved and worked hard on it.

Coach Schuman:You were MVP! What are your goals now?
Marcus Nesbitt: My goals now would have to be to do good with my 7 on 7 team, and to win MVP at the U100 camp.

Coach Schuman:How did you hear about the National Underclassmen Combine and what was your favorite part about the event?
Marcus Nesbitt:I heard about National Underclassmen Combine through some friends in the locker room, and just went home and researched some more on it, and registered. My favorite part would definitely have to be the showcase, with all the intensity it was fun.

Coach Schuman:If you can choose 5 schools where you would be interested in playing what would they be?
Marcus Nesbitt: Universtiy of Miami, UT, TCU, LSU, Michigan

Coach Schuman:What do you like about high school football? What are your goals for your team and yourself?
Marcus Nesbitt: The best part of highschool football to me is playing football with the friends you grew up with, in college you meet new people, so once highschool is gone, it's gone. My goals for the team this year is to make it back to the playoff's, we have some unfinished buisness, and as for me i'm just trying to be the best I can, and what happens, happens.

Coach Schuman:Do you play other sports? Tell about your accomplishments?
Marcus Nesbitt: Yes, I run track and play baseball. For track we were district champions, and in baseball...we have room for improvement.

Coach Schuman:What is your favorite thing about football? what makes it a great sport to you?
Marcus Nesbitt: The best part about football is competing, trying to be the best. The love of the game, and the fact I like to be number one, and aggressive makes it great to me.

Coach Schuman:Tell me about your training regimen...How do you get better every day?
Marcus Nesbitt: During the week, I go to 5th period football at my school, and after that i go to track. During weekends, I try to hit the gym at least once or twice.

Coach Schuman:What are you looking for in college? Academically? football?
In a college i'm looking for a place where i can feel at home, some place i'm comfortable at first. A good education program is necessary, and a decent football team is just a plus.+

NUC Exclusive Interview with: Nestor Lantigua NUC Miami Junior Combine king

Coach Schuman: What did you do to prepare for the National Underclassmen Combine?
Nestor Lantigua: I did some speed training and went to the Combine Prep that you offered.

Coach Schuman:Have you been to the NUC before? How did you do? What were your expectations going into this years event?
Nestor Lantigua: I have went to NUC my 9th and 10th grade years. For my 10th grade year I won RB MVP and was invited to the ultimate 100 southeast. ....I expect to do do much better than my last year and win a award.

Coach Schuman:You were MVP! What are your goals now?
Nestor Lantigua: My goal now is to work hard enough to go to the Ultimate 100 camp.

Coach Schuman:How did you hear about the National Underclassmen Combine and what was your favorite part about the event?
Nestor Lantigua: I heard about it through the Internet. I love the intensity and competitive enviorment.

Coach Schuman:If you can choose 5 schools where you would be interested in playing what would they be?
Nestor Lantigua: USF, UM, FSU, UCF, and FAU

Coach Schuman:What do you like about high school football? What are your goals for your team and yourself?
Nestor Lantigua: I like being able to be part of a team and win games. The goals I would like to accomplish this year are to win back-to-back state championships and be the leading rusher in my area.

Coach Schuman:Do you play other sports? Tell about your accomplishments?
 
Nestor Lantigua: I also do Track and Field. Last year I made it to the meet before states in one of the toughest county's.

Coach Schuman:What is your favorite thing about football? what makes it a great sport to you?
Nestor Lantigua: I love the action, teamwork, and competition. These are also the reasons that make football a great sport for me.

Coach Schuman:Tell me about your training regimen...How do you get better every day?
 
Nestor Lantigua: I have been lifting and conditioning Mon-Thu. I make sure I work hard and increase in weight for lifting and reps for conditioning.

Coach Schuman:What are you looking for in college? Academically? football?
Nestor Lantigua: I am looking for a enviorment were I can call home. I would like a college that has a good academic reputation. Football wise I am looking for a place to make a impact early.

NUC Exclusive Interview with: NUC Houston DL MVP-MVP Jaylen Jordan

Coach Schuman: What did you do to prepare for the National Underclassmen Combine?

Jaylen:  I worked longer and harder in the gym as well as working on a few pass rush moves. 

Coach Schuman: Have you been to the NUC before? How did you do? What were your expectations going into this years event?
Jaylen:  Ive never been nefore.I think i did good but i feel as if i could have done better. I was expecting to learn things that would help me next season.

Coach Schuman: You were MVP! What are your goals now?
Jaylen:  My goals are now to take what i learned from the camp and use that in the season as well as the next camp.

Coach Schuman: How did you hear about the National Underclassmen Combine and what was your favorite part about the event?
Jaylen:  I heard about the NUC through my teammates;  my favorite part were the 1 on 1's

Coach Schuman: If you can choose 5 schools where you would be interested in playing what would they be?
Jaylen:  My 5 schools would be OU, LSU, OSU, University of Colorado, and NotreDame.

Coach Schuman: What do you like about high school football? What are your goals for your team and yourself?
Jaylen:  I like the fans and my teammates who are there for me no matter what.  My goal for my team is for us to make it deep in
playoffs and my personal goals are to get 2 sacks per game and to help my team go undeafeated.

Coach Schuman: Do you play other sports? Tell about your accomplishments?
Jaylen:  No i only play football its a full time job.

Coach Schuman :What is your favorite thing about football? what makes it a great sport to you?
Jaylen:  My favorite thing is the contact on everyplay.  Its a great sport because not all people can handle the sport physical demands.    

Coach Schuman: Tell me about your training regimen.  How do you get better every day?
Jaylen:  My training regimen consist of working out a different part of my body everyday and running. I get better everyday by doing drills with my teammates and eating right. 

Coach Schuman: What are you looking for in college? Academically? football?
Jaylen:  Im looking for a school that has a nice campus as well as a nice medical program and football im looking for a place that i will make a difference in as well as enjoy playing there.