NCAA Football

If you are an Oregon football fan, it's time to start holding your breath. Maybe if you all do it together, the Ducks can hold onto Thomas Tyner, the special 5-star recruit from Aloha, OR.

After a shaky period back in October 2012, in which Tyner decommitted from his Oregon verbal pledge, and then quickly recommitted two days later, the terrific running back has appeared to be solidly in the Ducks' camp.

However, until this week's national signing day, fans can't really feel secure in their favorite team's commits. Sometimes strange and horrible things happen on that day. Sometimes strange and wonderful things happen, too.

Oregon fans should want one thing more than anything else on Feb. 6—Thomas Tyner's signature on the Ducks' letter of intent. Tyner is a very special player, the kind that doesn't come along often, and here's why.

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If you are an Oregon football fan, it's time to start holding your breath. Maybe if you all do it together, the Ducks can hold onto Thomas Tyner , the special 5-star recruit from Aloha, OR...

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The long road to National Signing Day finally comes to an end on Wednesday, when Brian Kelly will announce the members of Notre Dame’s 2013 class. The class of 22-to-25 signees, depending on final decisions on Wednesday, is expected to rank in the top five by most recruiting services.

Last year’s class was relatively low in quality and quantity, but the Irish did receive significant contributions from its members during its run to the BCS Championship Game. Cornerback KeiVarae Russell, defensive end Sheldon Day and wide receiver Chris Brown all were valuable parts of the 12-1 Irish.

Notre Dame’s 2013 class is much stronger than that of a year ago, and the Irish may receive even more immediate contributions from this group. Exactly how much will be based partially on need, but also on how each player fits into Notre Dame’s system.

Despite the Kelly offense at Cincinnati in 2009 looking far different than the one Notre Dame rode to a 12-0 regular season in 2012, Kelly still has certain skills that he look for in offensive prospects.

Let’s look at five Irish recruits who appear to be ideal fits for Kelly's offense.

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Recruiting season is almost in the books, but college coaches are still holding their collective breath. On February 6, the last of the nation’s top recruits will announce their future schools.

Many recruiting classes are highlighted by several standout, can't-miss high school candidates and this year's crop is no exception. While many have already chosen a school, there are a number of potential program-changing players yet to decide.

The usual suspects are at the top of the recruiting board this year, including Alabama, Ohio State, Florida, Michigan and Notre Dame, while USC and LSU aren’t far behind. For any program already near the top of the rankings, one more big-time recruit can be the missing piece that puts them over the top.

There are also several schools currently ranked outside of 247Sports’ top 10 that have a chance to make a significant move on Wednesday's National Signing Day, including Ole Miss. The Rebels have a number of terrific prospects still on their radar and landing just one of them would likely push the program into the recruiting top 10 this year.

We’ll take a look at some of the most significant undecided recruits and speculate as to where they might land on February 6.

*All rankings courtesy of 247Sports.

 

Robert Nkemdiche: 5-star defensive end

All the pieces will begin to fall in place when Nkemdiche announces his decision at 7:35 a.m. EST on National Signing Day.

Nkemdiche is the consensus No. 1 prospect this year and he’ll be an immediate boost to whichever school he chooses. With a 6’4”, 285-pound frame, the 5-star defensive end is ready to play and contribute immediately at the college level.

Ole Miss is the favorite to secure a commitment from Nkemdiche, a move that would likely move the Rebels into the top 10. They also have a number of other high-profile targets on the radar and Nkemdiche’s decision could be a game-changer for the Rebels.

According to Shea Dixon of 247Sports, it may not be too late to count out LSU, though:

There are always surprises on National Signing Day and it appears Nkemdiche will keep us all guessing until February 6.

 

Laremy Tunsil: 5-star offensive tackle

Tunsil is another top target for Ole Miss, and the interest seems to be mutual. According to 247Sports National Recruiting Director JC Shurburtt, talk is still swirling of an Ole Miss/Tunsil union:

Tunsil would not only be a boost for Ole Miss, but any program that manages to land the nation’s top offensive line prospect. At 6’6” and 295 pounds, he is a mauler with quick feet and good technique and he’s ready to start at the next level.

Georgia and Alabama are also on Tunsil’s short list, but all recent indications point to the big tackle taking his talents to Ole Miss. We will all find out on February 6 at 9:35 a.m. EST on Wednesday.

 

Matthew Thomas: 5-star outside linebacker

Thomas attends Booker T. Washington high school in Miami, and it looks like he’ll continue his playing career in his home state.

According to 247Sports, Miami and Florida State are the two leading candidates for one of the nation’s top linebacker prospects. According to Manny Navarro of the Miami Herald, Thomas is still considering Miami, despite reports that he was leaning toward attending Florida State:

Shurburtt has heard otherwise:

Florida State currently has the No. 14 recruiting class in the country, while Miami is at No. 32. Landing Thomas would be a huge boost for either school and he has a chance of seeing immediate playing time on either roster.

Thomas will make his final decision at 9:15 a.m. EST on national signing day. Until then, Florida State and Miami will have to wait patiently for his decision.

 

Vonn Bell: 5-star safety

Bell is the No. 3 safety in the nation and, with a good mix of size and speed, he offers a versatile, athletic option for college coaches. Bell has the potential to line up all over the secondary and he could be an impact player very early in his career.

According to 247Sports, Bell is considering Tennessee, Alabama and Ohio State as his top three choices. While it seems Alabama has fallen behind in the race, Tennessee and Ohio State are gaining steam.

Rivals.com national recruiting analyst Mike Farrell believes Bell’s decision will benefit the Volunteers:

Tennessee ranks No. 26 this year in recruiting, and the Volunteers have failed to land a 5-star recruit thus far. Bell’s commitment would be a huge boost for the team, and would also vault Tennessee up the recruiting ranks.

While signs point to Tennessee as his destination, we won’t know for sure until 10:05 a.m. EST on National Signing Day, when he is scheduled to make his announcement.

 

Montravius Adams: 5-star defensive tackle

At 6’4” and 310 pounds, it’s easy to see why so many schools coveted Adams this year. He’s an absolute mauler at the defensive tackle position, and he has the frame to be a plug-and-play option at the next level.

Adams is 247Sports’ No. 2 defensive tackle prospect, trailing only Eddie Vanderdoes in the rankings. He’ll make his final decision at 9:45 a.m. EST on February 6 and it appears now like he may be leaning toward Georgia, according to UGARecruitingInsider:

Apart from Georgia, Adams has also been considering Clemson, Auburn and Alabama. Alabama is widely considered to have the best recruiting class in the nation at this point and Georgia holds the No. 9 position, but Auburn (17) and Clemson (19) would greatly benefit from adding a 5-star prospect of Adams’ caliber.

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For Trojans fans, these are desperate times.

Coming off of a disappointing 7-6 record for the 2012 college football season and entering into the post-Matt Barkley era, USC is in need of a new hero.

And of course, this gridiron savior can't be just any football player. He must guide the program as a quarterback, a position that most agree requires leadership to go along with fabulous athletic ability.

Under these auspices enters Skyline (Sammish, WA) quarterback, Max Browne.

Browne, a Scout.com 5-star prospect and Gatorade National Player of the Year, certainly carries the credentials to ascend to such lofty ambitions.

Rated the No. 1 quarterback in the nation by Scout.com and Rivals.com, Browne's skills makes him a natural to lead a program that is in need of resuscitation.

But what exactly does Max Browne bring to the table that would warrant such high hopes from an anxious fan base?

This slide show will look at some of the reasons why Browne is so special and considered a "can't-miss" prospect for the Trojans.

Embarking on a critical period of USC football, this is the guy the Trojans hope will lead them out of the wilderness.

And why their faith has been placed in the right hands.

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For Trojans fans, these are desperate times. Coming off of a disappointing 7-6 record for the 2012 college football season and entering into the post-Matt Barkley era, USC is in need of a new hero...

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Already owning the 15th-ranked recruiting class (according to ESPN), the Auburn Tigers are still in the hunt for some of the top recruits in the nation.

Boasting 19 total commits, including 5-star defensive end Carl Lawson, the Tigers will look to build their roster with a new coaching staff at the helm.

Here are the latest updates regarding potential Auburn recruits.

 

Mackensie Alexander, CB

Alexander is one of the most sought-after cornerbacks on the recruiting trail, given his potential upside as a lockdown corner.

The 5'11" corner has offers from Texas A&M, Clemson, Mississippi State and Auburn and will be visiting with the Tigers this weekend, according to Yahoo! Sports' Justin Hokanson:

It sounds as though Alexander has enjoyed Auburn's recruiting campaign and the moves its made with its coaching staff, as you can see in this video, courtesy of Alabama.com.

While there was a rumor that Alexander had committed to Miss. State, those rumors were squashed by 247 Sports' Luke Stampini.

Alexander appears to be keeping his lips closed, but no matter where he signs, that program will be getting one of the best cornerback recruits in college football.

 

Montravius Adams, DT

As a Georgia native, Montravius Adams would be a hometown favorite if he were to sign with the Tigers.

The 6'3", 281-pound defensive tackle is surprisingly quick for his big frame, possessing quick feet and hands to get off the line.

Adams has offers from multiple schools, including Auburn, Florida, Clemson, Alabama and Georgia, but will be on the Tigers' campus this weekend, reports Hokanson:

Adams is slated to make his announcement at 9:45 a.m. ET on Wednesday.

 

Reuben Foster, LB

According to Alabama.com, Auburn native Reuben Foster will make his announcement at 9 p.m. ET Monday night on Fox Sports South.

As to where he'll be signing, Foster hasn't given us any indications as to where he'll end up.

Alabama.com reports that Foster's list is down to Auburn, Georgia and Alabama, but is it possible that the hometown kid could spurn the Tigers in favor of the Crimson Tide?

Peep this from Yahoo! Sports' Jake Rowe:

With Foster dissing the Tigers in favor of Alabama, it's not looking good for Auburn signing the linebacker.

 

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As I've stated before, the junior college aspect of recruiting is a frontier that can be very fertile for a program. Many schools use the JUCO route to get players that can immediately help and other prospects that are just too good pass up. Landing a couple JUCO recruits pay off quickly for a program.

Some program attack the JUCO route more rigorously than others, as you look at what Charlie Weis has done this recruiting year at Kansas. However, when you land a JUCO recruit, he's expected to contribute and contribute quickly.

The top JUCO prospects this year are of that same traditional mold and the following piece will be of predictions for the nation's top uncommitted JUCO prospects. So while you may not have heard too much about these guys, theses uncommitted JUCO recruits are hot commodities on the recruiting trail.

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As national signing day approaches, some of the biggest names on offense have yet to decide where they'll be attending school in the fall.

We're still waiting on big-named defensive players like 5-star defensive end Robert Nkemdiche and 5-star cornerback Mackensie Alexander to decide as well, but let's focus on offense.

Here are the latest updates and predictions surrounding the top offensive recruits left.

 

Laremy Tunsil, OL

At 6'6", 295 pounds, offensive lineman Laremy Tunsil will be an asset to whatever program he signs with.

He'll excel in pass protection with his long arms and arm strength and should be coached into a solid run-blocker as well.

The Florida native has offers fro Ole Miss, Georgia and Alabama on the table (via ESPN), but 247 Sports' JC Shurburtt gives us the scoop on where Tunsil may be signing:

If Tunsil does decide on the Rebels, he'll be the first 4-star OL to join Ole Miss during this recruiting season, making him one of the most important recruits for the Rebels.

Prediction: Ole Miss

 

Alvin Kamara, RB

It's down to Alabama and Georgia for the 4-star RB recruit, Alvin Kamara.

Kamara is one of the most athletic recruits in all of college football and possesses a great combination of power and speed, especially while running downhill.

As to where the 5'10" back will play next season, ESPN's Kipp Adams tweets that Kamara was in Alabama on Saturday:

Furthermore, Greg Ostendorf of ESPN (Insider access required) suggests that Kamara will eventually end up signing with the Crimson Tide.

Already boasting ESPN's No. 2-ranked recruiting class, look for Alabama to get a little bit deeper if Kamara signs.

Prediction: Alabama

 

Stacy Coley, WR

With three Florida teams gunning for him (Miami, Florida State and USF), hometown wideout Stacy Coley knows he won't be playing far from home.

The 6'1" receiver is a smooth athlete, has decent speed for his size and can be utilized in jump-ball situations, as he possesses great hands.

While Coley is keeping his silence as to where he'll sign, 247 Sports' Josh Newberg (account required) reports that FSU head coach Jimbo Fisher may have the upper hand:

It's still anyone's guess as to where he'll land, but with Fisher making one last push to acquire Coley, I'll roll with FSU.

Prediction: Florida State

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Arizona Cardinals defensive lineman Darnell Dockett must be bored this offseason. The veteran NFL star has made a hobby of trying to steal Katherine Webb, the former Miss Alabama, away from Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback AJ McCarron. 

The football stars have been going back and forth at each other on Twitter ever since Webb was given considerable camera time in the stands at the BCS National Championship Game. Dockett saw her on television and tweeted his phone number to her. 

Thus began a war of words on Twitter, which didn't last long...initially. After a few weeks off, Dockett reignited the drama on Friday with this tweet:

McCarron wasted little time firing back with a response of his own, beginning to display some frustration and effectively calling out Dockett:

Not surprisingly, Dockett replied:

@10ajmccarron you saw me and didn't speak ? Where's your manners? Tell kath I didn't notice her, sorry but ill be on look out now 👀

— DARNELL DOCKETT (@ddockett) February 2, 2013

If the two men were to settle this without their smart phones in hand, I'm certain Dockett would have the edge.

At 6'4", 290 pounds, the 31-year-old NFL defensive tackle would win every time over the 210-pound college quarterback.

In the end, this entire episode is nothing more than Dockett seeking attention and McCarron desperately wanting to protect his pride. The sooner McCarron realizes that he's already won (he's dating Webb, isn't he?) and logs off Twitter, the sooner this whole mess will be over with.

 

Follow Bleacher Report Featured Columnist Patrick Clarke on Twitter. 

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Monday evening will bring an end to one of the most dramatic, topsy-turvy recruitments that the Southeast has seen in quite some time when 5-star linebacker Reuben Foster makes his college choice between Alabama, Georgia and Auburn (h/t 247Sports). 

At least we think it will come to an end.

The 48 hours between Monday and national signing day on Wednesday are crazier than watching the popular TV show, The First 48 on A&E. 

You can watch the announcement live on Fox Sports South at 10:00 p.m. EST on Monday night. 

Despite Foster's flair for the dramatic in his recruitment, he is Auburn's most important target going into the final week of the 2013 recruiting season because of the position he plays and the recruiting momentum he would give Auburn should he choose the Tigers on Monday. 

Foster's story begins in the summer of 2011, when he committed to the Alabama Crimson Tide. Originally from Troup County, Ga., Foster transferred to Auburn High School in Alabama after the departure of his high school coach. 

While he remained committed to the Crimson Tide during and after transferring to Auburn High School, the pressure of being so close to Auburn University, the previous coaching staff and their children (his teammates) took its toll. 

He decommitted from Alabama and switched his commitment to Auburn. Foster made news when he had Auburn's "AU" logo tattooed on his forearm. 

When former head coach Gene Chizik was fired, Foster remained committed. It was when assistant coach Trooper Taylor was fired that Foster decided to open back up his recruitment. 

Foster has made the most of his recruitment, going on official visits to San Diego State and the University of Washington. He has also formed bonds with Auburn's new coaches. 

And here we are, on the last weekend before he announces his college choice. Would you expect anything less than more drama? Foster started the weekend out on an official visit to Auburn as one of four 5-stars officially visiting the Plains. 

Reports surfaced on Saturday evening that Foster had left his official visit at Auburn to go to Tuscaloosa. That is, of course, home to the Alabama Crimson Tide.

Don't you just love recruiting season?

Signs are beginning to point toward Alabama head coach Nick Saban being able to pull off yet another monster recruiting class that includes Foster.

Auburn needs to rally in Foster's recruitment to shore up the linebacker position.

Since the departure of former middle linebacker Josh Bynes, Auburn has struggled to find the productivity it needs in the middle of its defense at the linebacker position. 

Bynes was the unquestioned leader of the 2010 defense that ranked ninth in the country in rushing defense.

In 2011, Auburn platooned linebackers Jake Holland and Eltoro Freeman at the middle linebacker position.

In 2012, Holland and Cassanova McKinzy saw most of the action at middle linebacker. A less-than-100-percent Holland and an inexperienced McKinzy were not able to get the job done. Missed tackles and the ability to get off blocks were a problem for both as the Tigers front seven were pushed around all season long. 

If Foster chooses Auburn on Monday, he will immediately be considered a factor in the race to be one of Johnson's two starting linebackers in his 4-2-5 scheme in 2013. 

The No. 1 inside linebacker in the 247Sports composite rankings was a man among boys at the high school level in 2013. His 6'1", 245-pound frame to go along with his 4.5 40-yard dash makes him ready to play against SEC competition from the time he steps on campus. 

Don't believe me? Just watch his scouting report from the good folks over at Bleacher Report's Full Ride. 

You can see how well he reads his keys and fills running lanes. He has fantastic closing speed and he plays with a physicality and an attitude that is needed in the middle of an SEC defense. 

Away from the field, Auburn needs Foster to start the recruiting momentum leading up to national signing day on Feb. 6. 

Foster is a character who has proven to be magnetic with other recruits. He will have 48 hours to join the Auburn coaching staff to recruit other elite prospects to join him in the 2013 recruiting class. 

In this day and age, elite prospects want to play with other elite prospects. 

Also on Monday, Auburn will find out if 5-star defensive end Carl Lawson will remain committed to the Tigers after flirtations with Clemson and Tennessee. If both prospects choose Auburn, momentum on the recruiting trail will be as high as it has been since Auburn finished with the No. 4 recruiting class in 2010. 

If things go Auburn's way on a big weekend of official visits, head coach Gus Malzahn's first class could wind up in the top 10. If Foster commits to Auburn on Monday, it could be the spark that it needs.

A spark is all it takes for a fire to get started. 

Follow @TrueBlueAU

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We're only days away from national signing day (Feb 6.) and the day figures to be another signing day full of suspense and high anticipation. Not only will fans be anticipating big news, so will a ton of programs. Coaches have worked hard all recruiting cycle and NSD is when all their hard work comes to the forefront.

Every program will sign a class that they will "really like," but their are some programs who are flat-out giddy over the class they will sign.

Whether it's a big class due to numbers, a big class due to circumstances or it's a big class because it's full of program-changing recruits, I see 10 programs right now who figure to be ready to celebrate a "big" recruiting class.

Signing season is among us!

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With 23 new recruits already committed to play for Ohio State next season and a couple more who might join the team on national signing day, the future of Ohio State football is looking as bright as ever.

Urban Meyer hit the recruiting trail hard in preparation for a successful run with the Buckeyes. His team’s 12-0 season in 2012 laid the ground work, but it’s Meyer’s track record that has some of the nation’s best high school players ready to take on the Big Ten next season.

Meyer did a terrific job recruiting prospects from all over the country. Ohio State secured commitments from 13 players from outside Ohio, including cornerback Eli Apple (96 rating from 247Sports) and 4-star linebackers Trey Johnson and Mike Mitchell.

While not every new commit will see much action on Saturdays next season, this class will be a solid foundation on which the Buckeyes can build. We’ll take a look at this year’s recruiting class, position by position.

*All rankings courtesy of 247Sports.

 

 Quarterback

Ohio State only secured a commitment from a single quarterback this year, but it isn’t a position of need at the moment. Braxton Miller will be under center in 2013, and the Buckeyes have Kenny Guiton and Cardale Jones waiting in the wings. Next year may be a different story, but for now, Meyer doesn’t need to worry about the quarterback position.

J.T. Barrett is a 4-star dual-threat quarterback recruit who chose OSU this offseason, but he likely won't see any time under center in the near future. He has potential, and he'll have time to develop it from the sidelines.

 

Running back

There’s nothing much to report at the running back position, either. The Buckeyes have tons of depth at the position, and with Jordan Hall, Rod Smith, Bri’onte Dunn, Carlos Hyde, Warren Ball and Darryl Wood all ready to go for the 2013 season, adding to the position wasn’t a necessity this year.

Ezekiel Elliott (4-star all-purpose back) will join the Buckeyes in 2013, but with a logjam at the position, he probably won't see much action early in his career. Elliott was a nice signing, and at 6'0" and 212 pounds, he'll certainly find a fit on the team in the coming years. It just won't be this year.

 

Wide receiver and tight end

Meyer’s up-tempo offense calls for a little more speed, and the Buckeyes found it in this year’s recruiting class.

Four-star receivers Jalin Marshall and Corey Smith committed to OSU this offseason, and both have a chance to see some action almost immediately. Both are short but speedy, and both are rated a 95 overall by 247Sports.

The Buckeyes had a young receiving corps in 2012, and it will get even younger this year with the addition of Marshall and Smith. Given Meyer’s propensity for fast, versatile skill players, the duo should find a strong fit in Ohio State’s offense in the coming years.

Tight end Marcus Baugh also committed to OSU for next year. At 6’4” and 225 pounds, the 4-star tight end doesn’t exactly fit the mold of Meyer’s former tight ends, but he’s a perfect fit for Big Ten football.

Baugh is big and physical with room to grow, and he’ll prove to be a valuable asset stretching the middle of the field. He’ll need to work on blocking, but with a 95 overall rating, he has incredible potential at the college level.

 

Offensive line

The Buckeyes’ recruiting class wasn’t all that deep at offensive line positions, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t talented.

Offensive tackle Evan Lisle is rated a 95 by 247Sports, and while he likely won’t see much action in his first year with the team, he has a very high ceiling. Lisle is listed at just 260 pounds, and he’ll have to add some mass to play at the college level. With a strong returning offensive line corps, rushing him into a starting role won’t be necessary.

Ohio State also receiving a commitment from 4-star offensive tackle Timothy Gardner, whose frame is much more suited for a more immediate role with the Buckeyes offense. Gardner is a 6’5”, 310-pound mauler who will fit well in a Big Ten offense. He needs some polish, but Gardner could garner some playing time early in his career.

 

Defensive line

The defensive line is the strength of this Ohio State recruiting class, and with Johnathan Hankins and John Simon leaving for the NFL draft, adding depth at the position was a necessity.

The Buckeyes added three defensive ends and three defensive tackles this offseason, five of which are of the 4-star variety.

Defensive end Joey Bosa could see immediate playing time with the Buckeyes next season. The 4-star strongside end is versatile, tough and talented, and at 270 pounds, he has the frame to hold up almost anywhere on the line at the college level.

Donovan Munger and Michael Hill are both defensive tackles with 90 ratings from 247Sports. At 315 pounds, Hill could be the big body OSU needs to replace Hankins on the defensive line. He still has to work on his technique, but it won’t be long before Hill is clogging up running lanes and taking down Big Ten running backs.

 

Linebacker

Ohio State’s linebacker class isn’t deep, but the talent is undeniable. The Buckeyes secured commitments from two of the best linebackers in this year’s class.

Mike Mitchell and Trey Johnson have the potential to be the future of the Buckeyes’ linebacking corp. Each was given a 94 rating by 247Sports, and neither has that far to go before being ready to start at the college level.

Johnson projects as an inside linebacker due to his solid recognition skills and willingness to shoot gaps and take on opposing blockers. He’ll have to bulk up a little, but he has the frame (6’2”, 218 pounds) to be a sideline-to-sideline defender.

Mitchell is one of the Buckeyes’ most highly regarded incoming freshman. With some holes to fill at outside linebacker, Mitchell has a chance to start immediately on Saturdays. He’s quick, intelligent and extremely tough, and he’ll only get better with a little coaching.

 

Defensive back

As if Ohio State’s defensive recruiting class weren’t strong enough, Meyer managed to secure commitments from several quality defensive backs.

At 96 overall, cornerback Eli Apple is Ohio State’s best incoming freshman. He’s a 6’1”, 185-pound speedster with all the tools coaches look for in a highly versatile pass defender.

The Buckeyes also added cornerback Cameron Burrows, safety Jayme Thompson (both 4-star recruits) and 3-star cornerback Taivon Jacobs. With an infusion of young, talented defensive backs, Big Ten offenses will have trouble passing on the Buckeyes in the coming years.

Meyer also has a chance to land one of the best safety prospects in the nation on national signing day in Vonn Bell. According to Brad Bournival of ESPN, Bell is considering Ohio State as one of his three choices for next season. Tennessee appears to be leading the race, but there is always the chance Bell will change his mind on February 6.

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Notre Dame has a national championship appearance in the BCS era, a coach that rebuffed NFL offers and a talented group of younger players to replace the ones leaving for the NFL. That being said, it's not surprising recruits are lining up to head to South Bend, and that this will be head coach Brian Kelly's best recruiting class to date.

Top to bottom, Notre Dame figures to be loaded next season—both in current players and incoming recruits from the 2013 class.

QB Everett Golson will continue to improve under Kelly's tutelage and with the experience he gained as the signal-caller for a one-loss team. Louis Nix III is returning on defense, and the skill players on the outside will grow the same way their QB is slated to.

Recruits are noticing that the Irish are on the rise.

Different scouting groups have different rankings on schools each year, but you'd be hard-pressed to find a credible site that ranks the Irish anywhere out of the top five when it comes to overall ranking. When you have guys like Jaylon Smith, Max Redfield, Hunter Bivin and Greg Bryant wanting to come play for you, it's no surprise.

Sure, the prestige of Notre Dame will usually be enough to help the Irish jump into the top 20 of ranking boards when national signing day is over—they did it for years when the program was struggling under Charlie Weis.

However, the feel around the Golden Dome is different these days, and you need look no further than some of the recruits that have held true to the Irish during what could have been a disaster period for both the school and the recruits themselves.

For starters, Kelly fielded NFL offers less than 24 hours after his Irish lost to Alabama in the National Championship, reportedly declining an offer from the Philadelphia Eagles at the end of the process.

Then, the Manti Te'o scandal broke, and the University looked extremely embarrassed with both their own handling of the situation and the fact that they let the most publicized player from the school in the last decade be involved in something so disheartening.

Recruits have been largely unfazed, and the list keeps growing.

Smith rebuffed a late push from Michigan (h/t Detroit Free Press) to remain in South Bend, and his quote over the weekend helped prove that he's a Golden Domer through and through—without a day of class under his belt:

He told me there was still a spot at Michigan for me if anything changed, Smith said. I appreciated that, but nothing was going to change. The Golden Dome isn't going anywhere.

The 5-star LB from Indiana headlines the list of recruits for the Irish that are sticking with South Bend despite many distractions, but he's not the only one.

Tarean Folston is headed to the University of Notre Dame, confirmed by his head coach (via MaxPreps) just a little under a week until the Feb. 6 event. He and Bryant will likely battle it out for carries as first-year players, but the Irish got two blue-chip running backs to come to town without much opposition.

Five kids enrolled early, including Corey Robinson—the freakish athlete and son of former NBA star David Robinson—and the Irish have also picked up late recruits over the past two weeks. One of those is Durham Smythe, the Texas native and TE prospect that decommitted from the Texas Longhorns earlier in the process.

Notre Dame got a verbal commitment from Smythe after his visit on Jan. 27, and there's sure to be a few more pieces that fall into place (CB Mackensie Alexander and OT Laremy Tunsil come to mind).

Simply put, the Irish are quietly dominating this year's recruiting class, and with a solid national signing day, they could very well end up as the No. 1 school when it's all said and done.

Success will do that to a program.

 

Ethan Grant is a featured columnist for B/R's Breaking News Team.

Follow @DowntownEG

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National signing day takes place on Wednesday, Feb. 6, and while some players have committed to certain schools, there is still an unpredictable nature to their ultimate decision.

Just because a player has committed to a school doesn't necessarily mean he will sign there, and that could make for some huge surprises come the big day. Other players simply haven't made up their minds yet, thus further giving an opportunity to multiple schools for their services.

Let's take a look at some of the top recruits in this year's class and examine why they are so unpredictable.

 

Vonn Bell, 5-Star Safety

Alabama and Ohio State were the two early favorites to land Bell (per 247Sports.com), but after an enjoyable recent trip to Tennessee (per Patrick Brown of the Chattanooga Times Free Press), the Volunteers are now in serious contention for the talented safety.

Just this week, Bell met with Alabama and Ohio State, who made their respective last-second pitches.

JC Shurburtt of 247Sports.com let us in on just how hard this decision is for Bell:

Per @govols247 -#Bama saw Vonn Bell this week. Per his coach he's "torn up" about the decision (VIP) bit.ly/XdwuCa #SigningDay

— JC Shurburtt (@jcshurburtt) February 2, 2013

Looks like this one will come down to the wire.

 

MacKensie Alexander, 4-Star CB

Alexander has several teams in contention for him with Auburn, Mississippi State, Clemson and Rutgers being at the top of the list (per 247Sports.com).

Initial reports had Alexander committed to Mississippi State, but Luke Stampini of 247Sports.com refuted that news:

Mackensie Alexander denies committing to Miss. St. Take it for what it's worth. mississippistate.247sports.com/Board/59413/No…

— Luke Stampini (@LukeStampini) January 19, 2013

JC Shurburtt of 247Sports.com projected that Alexander will land with Auburn:

So @gerryh247sports and I projected MacKensie Alexander to #Auburn earlier tonight in this article bit.ly/1165QTP #SigningDay

— JC Shurburtt (@jcshurburtt) January 30, 2013

Just when you thought things might be clear for this defensive stud, Shurburtt threw a wrench into everything, admitting nothing is certain about Alexander's future:

We will stick with that prediction, but honestly, MacKensie Alexander could end up anywhere. bit.ly/1165QTP

— JC Shurburtt (@jcshurburtt) January 30, 2013

News on Alexander has been all over the place, so take any information about his decision with a grain of salt at this point. The only way to truly know where he will go is to watch his announcement.

 

Altee Tenpenny, 4-Star RB

Toward the end of January, Tenpenny committed to Alabama and head coach Nick Saban (per 247Sports.com), but after a recent successful visit to his home school of Arkansas (per Richard Davenport of the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette), that commitment isn't so certain:

North Little Rock running back Altee Tenpenny said he enjoyed hanging out with his two hosts, cornerback Tevin Mitchel and offensive lineman Cordale Boyd. He said the players told him the same as others and to be a Hog and stay in-state. He wants to go back home and talk to his parents and see how they liked the trip. He said the staff seemed down-to-earth and were hungry to win. He'll make his final decision on signing day.

Did you read that?

Tenpenny will make his decision on signing day, so clearly Alabama hasn't landed him just yet. Arkansas seems like a better choice from both playing time and sentimental standpoints, but there's no question Alabama will give him the best chance to win.

We'll see whether home or winning matters more.

 

Carl Lawson, 5-Star DE

Lawson has been committed to Auburn for nearly a year now, but he is also interested in Clemson and Tennessee (per 247Sports.com).

However, also listed in his preferred destinations is Georgia Tech. The Yellow Jackets have by no means been a favorite all this time, but thanks to the hiring of a new defensive line coach, that could change.

Here are the details, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution's Georgia Tech Twitter account:

Thanks to new DL coach Mike Pelton, #gatech now in running for Milton DE Carl Lawson, No. 2 prospect in country. bit.ly/U0xUVO

— ajcgatech (@ajcgatech) January 31, 2013

Michael Carvell of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution admitted experts can't decide where Lawson will end up:

There sure are a lot of experts switching ... Carl Lawson from #Vols to #Auburn & Vonn Bell from #Bama to #Vols

— Michael Carvell (@RecruitingAJC) February 1, 2013

With a late entry into this race for one of the best defenders in the nation, Lawson could land at just about any of his desired schools.

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It’s no surprise that Urban Meyer is all over the signing day news ticker, but he may do more harm than good for this 2013 Ohio State recruiting class.

Meyer is making moves to shore up his newest class, going for his targeted recruits while making time to talk to “commits” at other schools.

That practice may backfire for Meyer, though, because his recruits are not sticking around if they don’t continue to get attention.

Two commits have already been in the news for potentially flipping their decision from Ohio State. Whether it’s true or not, the situation in Columbus is one to watch heading into signing day.

Here's the latest news out of Buckeye land.

 

Ezekiel Elliott Sticks With the Buckeyes…For Now

Elliott has been committed to Ohio State since April and serves as a main cog in Meyer’s class. A running back with 4.40 speed often does.

But there’s uncertainty coming from Elliott’s camp after he took a visit to Missouri, where he has legitimate family ties. Of the visit, Elliott told STL Today: "It’s one last look at Missouri and showing respect to my home school and to my mother and father’s alma mater."

While it seems Elliott was just taking a courtesy visit, a recruit’s word is just as good as a politician’s.

 

The Pursuit of 4-Star RB Dontre Wilson

Wilson hasn’t budged from his original commitment to the Oregon Ducks in May 2012, but he’s taking a few more visits just to be sure.

One of those excursions will be to Columbus to see what Urban Meyer and Co. have to offer (per Ty Duffy of The Big Lead).

It has been noted that Wilson will decide between Oregon, Ohio State and Texas. He also plans to visit the latter before he ends his recruiting process.

Texas will get the last look, but the Buckeyes look to be a player in this race more than ever.

 

Trey Johnson Takes a Visit to Merely Take a Visit

While a group of running backs decide if Columbus is right for them, one of the Buckeyes’ linebacker commits dispels a rumor about leaving Meyer and Co.

Four-star linebacker Trey Johnson did take a visit to Tennessee, as initially reported, but does not have any intention to leave the Buckeyes.

His high-school coach Todd Wofford comments that he has been sold on Ohio State for a significant period. He just wanted to take a visit (per Brad Bournival of ESPN):

He only took one before that and it was Ohio State. He took an official visit. It’s one of those things where it was a once-in-a-lifetime thing. He knows what his job is and what his future is. He had an opportunity to take a visit, so he took advantage of it. He’s done, but the wolves haven’t stopped trying.

The recruiting experience is once in a lifetime, and it was very cerebral of Johnson to notice that. Hopefully that self-awareness will translate to football on the next level.

Mike Shiekman is a Breaking News Writer for Bleacher Report.

Follow @TheRealShiek

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As Jerry Kill continues to build his 2013 recruiting class, the third-year Gophers coach landed a verbal commitment from a 4-star, in-state running back in the class of 2014

Jeff Jones, a 6'0" 190-pound running back out of Minneapolis Washburn, gave an unexpected early commitment.  He also had offers from Big Ten foes Illinois, Iowa, Michigan State and Wisconsin, along with Syracuse.

"I wanted to be a part of something special, and I think we can do that here in my home state of Minnesota," Jones said when discussing his commitment to the University of Minnesota.

The shifty runner was named to the Rivals250 2014 list and becomes the first 4-star commitment in Jerry Kill's tenure.

Kill, 9-16 in his two years at Minnesota, has not lit the world on fire in recruiting elite talent to Minneapolis, but he has compiled an intriguing 2013 class following a verbal pledge from mammoth 6'9" tight end Nate Wozniak (Greenwood, Indiana) this week.

Also included in this year's class is another talented running back in Berkley Edwards, a 3-star recruit from Chelsea, Michigan and brother of NFL player Braylon Edwards.

National Signing Day is this coming Wednesday, when Edwards and the 15 others are expected to officially sign on with the Gophers.

Jones becomes the first member of Kill's 2014 class.

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Nebraska football has put at least one player in the Super Bowl for the last twenty consecutive years. That’s a remarkable streak, given that Nebraska is not usually thought of as a school that churns out NFL talent. That record, according to Randy Gregory on Huskers.com, is six better than the next-closest rival. In total, 52 Nebraska players have made a total of 67 appearances in the Super Bowl.

So when I saw that statistic, it got me thinking. What would it look like if we took all the Nebraska players in the Super Bowl and made an all-star team out of them? As I went through the project, it was interesting (and at times surprising) to see at what positions Nebraska alums were thin and where they were plentiful.

Included in the rosters are the Super Bowls each player was in, the year of the NFL season, and the teams the player represented. Unfortunately, if we carry the project to its logical conclusion, the head coach of the team would be Bill Callahan (XXXVII, 2001, Oakland Raiders). So while the team might be pretty good, I’m not sure how much I would stake on the Nebraska all-star squad winning the game. Thankfully, though, a particularly smart and handsome analyst has already told us Callahan wouldn’t throw the game.

Begin Slideshow

National signing day is still four days away but the Ohio State Buckeyes have already established themselves as one of the top recruiting classes of 2013.

The class includes a 5-star cornerback and a multitude of 4-star studs, and the Buckeyes aren't finished.

ESPN's recruiting page shows that Ohio State is still looking to add 4-star safety Vonn Bell to its secondary. 

With a solid 2013 recruit class, we highlight the five best signings so far.

 

5. Jayme Thompson, 4-star S

The safety position was a big issue for the Buckeyes last season, as they lacked a lot of help over the top in the passing game.

Ohio State will see a lot of DBs leave the program during the course of the next two years, making the swaying of Jayme Thompson one of the most important additions to the Buckeyes defense.

As he progresses, the 6'2", 183-pound safety will be a crucial, hard-hitting leader of this Ohio State defense in 2014.

 

4. Evan Lisle, 4-star OT

In 2014, Ohio State will see five offensive linemen graduate, opening up a real need for an offensive tackle.

Eval Lisle excels in the run-blocking game, which is what the Buckeyes mainly feature in their offense.

At 6'5", 265-pounds, Lisle is both strong and athletic and will only get stronger as he enters the Buckeye program.

3. Jalin Marshall, 4-star WR

Primarily a rushing offense, the Buckeyes were in need of a wide receiver for the future who could be a game changer.

They got that in 5'11' Jalin Marshall, who can run the wildcat offense as a QB but also has the ability to switch to WR or even DB.

As one of the most versatile players of the incoming class, Marshall highlights a long-running list of important recruits for Ohio State.

 

2. Gareon Conley, 4-star CB

Ohio State really struggled defending the pass in 2012, ranking 61st in the nation in terms of passing yardage allowed.

With five DBs leaving the Buckeyes this season and another four in 2014, there's a real need for secondary help and Urban Meyer surely filled that void with 6'1" corner Gareon Conley.

Boasting great anticipation and instincts, Conley should make an immediate impact for the Buckeyes in 2014.

1. Eli Apple, 5-star CB

He is the only 5-star recruit the Buckeyes have and he's certainly an excellent signing.

I already highlighted Ohio State's need for secondary help, but with 6', 185-pound Eli Apple, the Buckeyes get an elite corner who plays both the run and the pass exceptionally well.

With a slew of DBs leaving the Buckeyes over the course of the next two years, Ohio State will look to Apple to lead the defensive secondary.

 

Follow @Pete_Schauer

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National Signing Day (NSD) is Wednesday, Feb. 6, and the Ole Miss Rebels simply can't wait.

Hugh Freeze, entering only his second year at the helm, has already put together a 2013 recruiting class currently ranked No. 13 by scout.com. However, Freeze and the Rebels hope to climb from the No. 13 ranking mightily on NSD. 

Among a host of other players, the Rebels have already received verbal commitments from 5-star wide receiver Laquon Treadwell; 4-star defensive end Elijah Daniel; 4-star tight end Christian Morgan; 4-star running back Kailo Moore; 4-star running back Mark Dodson Jr.; 4-star defensive end Lavon Hooks; 4-star defensive end Jarran Reed; and two 4-star quarterbacks, Ryan Buchanan and Devante Kincade.

However, Freeze and company still hope to build upon the very strong class already in place.

Recruiting information courtesy of scout.com

 

Which Uncommitted 5-Star Recruits Do the Rebels Have a Chance to Land on NSD?

Robert Nkemdiche, DE: No. 1 DE and Overall Prospect

The 6'4'', 282-pound defensive end from Grayson High School (Loganville, Ga.) is the single most highly coveted recruit in the country.

How does a 7-6 Ole Miss team even have a shot at landing Nkemdiche? The main reason is quite simple: Robert Nkemdiche's older brother and rising Southeastern Conference star, sophomore linebacker Denzel Nkemdiche, plays for the Rebels.

With the Nkemdiches supposedly a close-knit family, many across the country feel Robert will ultimately decide to suit up on the field to make it a family affair.

Main Schools of Interest: Ole Miss, LSU and Florida

 

Laremy Tunsil, OT: No. 1 OT, No. 7 Overall Prospect

The 6'6'', 295-pound offensive tackle from Columbia High School South (Lake City, Fla.) is one of the more recent top prospects to give the Rebels serious consideration. Tunsil is set to make his college announcement on ESPNU at 7:35 a.m. on National Signing Day (via ESPN).

Why is it thought Tunsil is so interested in Ole Miss after favoring Georgia for so long? Many feel he simply wants to join other top recruits set to ink with the Rebels and Hugh Freeze.

Main Schools of Interest: Ole Miss and Georgia 

 

Chris Jones, DE: No. 2 DE, No. 24 Overall Prospect

The 6'0'', 190-pound DE from Houston High School (Houston, Miss.) is a young man under a great deal of scrutiny.

Having originally verbally committed to rival Mississippi State, Jones has shown a late, strong interest in potentially joining forces on defense with potential commits DE Robert Nkemdichie and DE Elijah Daniel.

Regardless of the choice Jones ultimately makes on NSD, he will be the subject of a great deal of attention from fans of the schools he spurns throughout his college career.

Main Schools of Interest: Ole Miss and Mississippi State

 

Antonio Conner, S: No. 1 S, No. 31 Overall Prospect in America

The 6'1'', 205-pound safety North Panola High School (Batesville, Miss.) attends high school a mere 20 miles away from Ole Miss. Thought by many to be one of the better chances of Freeze landing a top recruit, Conner may in fact be one of the more difficult ones to call on NSD.

Alabama has made a strong push for Conner in recent weeks, but will it be enough to pull the coveted safety out of his home state?

Main Schools of Interest: Ole Miss, Alabama and Mississippi State

 

What Uncommitted 4-Star Recruits Will Ole Miss Keep an Eye on Come NSD?

Denver Kirkland, OG: No. 5 OG Prospect

Ira Denson, OG: No. 9 OG Prospect

Austin Golson, OT: No. 10 OT Prospect

Jason Hatcher, DE: No. 10 DE Prospect

 

If Hugh Freeze can land even a couple of these top uncommitted prospects, Ole Miss should easily finish with a top-five recruiting class in 2013, and the folks in Oxford will be on cloud nine.

For a little college town known for throwing great parties, landing a top-five recruiting class may set off a party the likes of which Oxford hasn't seen in quite a while.  

NSD sets up to be some great drama.

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