Tidbits & More

Let's take a look around the country, and see what the latest happenings, rumors are around the country.

- Auburn had a nice pick up in 4* LB LaDarius Owens(6'2" 225 4.5). Owens also had offers from Alabama, Arkansas, Clemson, Florida State, LSU, Ole Miss, Mississippi State, & Tennessee.

- 4* QB Tyler Bray, out of California, who is a San Diego State pledge, visited Tennessee this past weeked for the Western Kentucky game. Bray, who has stated all along he would not go back on his word, is not sure if he will make an official visit to SDSU this year or not. "Right now, it's just those two schools." Bray said it's doubtful he'll take an official visit to San Diego State."I don't think I'll be able to," said Bray. "I might take an unofficial if I have time."

- Missouri City, TX 3* CB Harvey Jackson(6'2" 185)has given a verbal to Nebraska. Jackson had offers from Oklahoma State, Purdue, Missouri among a host of others.

- WR Kyle Prater made it official, that he is indeed committed to Southern Cal.

- 3* QB Clint Trickett has committed to play for the Florida State Seminoles. Trickett received a late night committable offer from the Seminoles, and made his decision shortly there after.

- Arkansas picked up Louisiana prep DT LaCraig Brown. Brown has good size, and picked the Hogs over Alabama, Mississippi State, & Louisiana Tech.

- 4* DE Alfy Hill will made his announcement on September 9th. Hill is deciding between Alabama & North Carolina.

- Jordan Hicks has released his 6 favorites as of right now. Texas, Florida, Ohio State, Southern Cal, Georgia, & Alabama

CB Ricardo Allen: LEAVE NO DOUBTS

Mainland HS in Daytona, FL seems to be on a mission this year, in hopes of running the table, led by Senior CB Ricardo Allen(5’9 ½”, 178, 4.3 forty).


Allen feels like Mainland came up just short of completing their goals a year ago, “That left a big mark in my mind all summer,” he says. “It made my team and I work harder this summer, so that when we do get down by a little, we can make that extra point, or we can convert that two point conversion.”


The Mainland senior says that their goals are lofty this year, but everyone has lofty expectations during fall camp, “We want to go 15-0 this year, but everyone does, our team motto this year is, LEAVE NO DOUBTS.”


Right now, Ricardo Allen has left no doubts that he is in fact, a big time prospect out of the Sunshine state. Allen reports offers from Arkansas, Illinois, Michigan, Purdue, South Carolina, Wake Forest, & Central Florida. “I haven’t really gotten close to making a decision yet. I don’t really have a preference on what conference I want to play in.” Although not ready to make a decision on where he ends up playing at the next level, Allen admits that the recruiting process takes a toll on him, “Recruiting is cool, but it sometimes does get a little bit out of control.”


As of now, Allen does not have a favorite in his list of offers, but he does have one official visit set up with teammates O.J. Ross and Chevin Davis, “So far, I’ve set up one, October 16 to Purdue. I am going with a couple of my teammates.” Allen says. “My mother is in love with the Arkansas Razorbacks, but with me being a team captain this year, I’ve put all my focus on the team goals for the season, and what we have to do to make it to the state championship game. I haven’t really been focusing on recruiting lately.”


There are quite a few things Allen is looking for in his college choice. One, being how long the coach plans on staying at the school. “ I don’t want a coach who likes me, then the coach leaves, and the new coaching staff likes 6’1” corners, which I am not.” Another thing Allen is looking at, is academics, if football does not work out, he sees his future in the medical field. “I want to be a nurse, or a doctor, “ Allen says.


Allen’s biggest asset may be his footwork, but he believes he brings much more to the field, “I bring technique, discipline, and heart. My main thing is technique. I have to have good technique in order to beat a bigger, faster, stronger wide out.” Allen says, “ I train on my technique and footwork, so things will come a lot easier for me.”


When asked who is the best player he has faced at camps this year, “Markeith Ambles, he is the only WR to get a catch on me.


Well, one thing is for certain, Ricardo Allen is on a mission, to “Leave No Doubts.”

Tidbits & More

by: Tony James

TBWNN takes you through what has been happening, what is happening right now on the recruiting trail....Buckle your seat belts, here we go.

- 4 star Ocola, FL WR Kardon Boone as finally come public with his commitment to Texas Tech. This is the Red Raiders second high profile WR commit from the sunny state of Florida. Earlier Ft.. Lauderdale WR Shawn Corker committed to Texas Tech.

- Also 4 star WR/OLB Justin McCay (Shawnee, OK) committed to Oklahoma.

- With so many WR's making their decisions it just seems natural that rumors are starting to spread about possible WR silent commits. First off it appears that DeMarco Cobbs has given Tennessee the dreaded "silent" commit. Cobbs will take his official visits. Arkansas is one he is really talking up.

- Another rumor is Hillside (IL) WR Kyle Prater has silently committed to USC after an unofficial visit. Rumors are Kyle will make his decision public in early September.

- It appears that 6'3" 230 pound Athlete BJ Butler (UGA commit) will take some official visits. Outside of a possible visit to USC (the real one) his other planned visits are too see schools where he has family currently on their roster (Colorado State and Auburn)

- Florida commits Matt Elam and Gerald Christian have re-affirmed their commitment to UF. There were strong rumors of these young men take an official to OSU but it appears that will not happen. They will though, likely, follow their teammate Robert Clark to WVU on his official.

- From all reports it sounds like Victor Beasley will commit to Clemson on Thursday 8/13. Clemson was battling Alabama for Beasley's commitment but Victors want to play offense was too much.

- 3 star Safety Andre Simmons (VA) will likely make his decision soon from Rutgers, BC and Vandy.

- Strong rumors of the Northern Guilford trio + 1 may be heading to Oregon. King, Allen, Scales and McCain are a pretty tight group. Now they could very well break their own way but for the time being the "package" deal may still be in play.

- Highly rank GA RB Storm Johnson is no longer going to be part of LSU's class and is looking for another school. FSU is a real possibility but FSU is higher on others at that position.

Alabama Prep OLB Nigel Terrell

Pelham, AL prep OLB Nigel Terrell(6'2" 215 4.4 forty)is close to ending the recruitment process, "I am about to end this process soon because I want to focus on the season and the football team." Terrell says. "The process has been going well, it is just a little exhausting and frustrating at times, other than that, it has been good."

Terrell recently named Florida State and Ole Miss as his top 2 choices. Terrell says he really likes the coaching staffs at both schools, but distance from his family also plays a major roll in his decision. "I have them on top because they are far enough where I can be independent at the same time be able to travel home when need be." Terrell says. " These two places are where I feel comfortable with the coaches and their plans with me in the up and coming seasons. I also like that they have a pretty large academic list to pick from."

The star OLB also said that playing in the SEC really will not be a deciding factor in his decision. "I'm not into the whole conference deal myself. I do believe it's one of most competitive conferences, but I'm not going to commit to a school just by the conference it's in. Although I do like to compete."

"I'm looking for a place where I feel at home and is not too hard on my family if they want to come to game or something of that nature. Some place where I can possibly play early and get a great education and a major I feel comfortable with."

The senior at Pelham HS says that he does still have some unfinished business to tend to at the high school level in his last year. "Our first goal is to win the region, and then state of course." he says. "This year I am wanting to become a better player and to polish my skills at OLB, become a better leader not only vocally but through my actions."

Terrell also feels like he has some things he needs to work on, to become more of a complete player, "I believe my strengths are my speed and change of direction, also my ability to play over the tight end. I want to work on all areas of my playing but I want to focus a little more on tackling. I want to become more of a sure tackler. I also want to gain more weight, as it is kind of jumpy."

The sky seems to be the limit for Terrell. One of two lucky schools will earn his signature come signing day.

Navarro JC DE Lawrence Rumph

Navarro JUCO DE Lawrence Rumph(6'4" 270 4.8 forty) sports offers from Arkansas, Oklahoma State, Southern Miss, Kansas, Kansas State, & Baylor.

The December graduate will be enrolling at his new school in January of 2010. Rumph seems to be happy with the offers he has garnered so far, but there is one offer he would still like to receive. "I would not mind having a few more," Rumph says, "I would really like an offer from Florida, but there are some very good schools looking at me, and I am happy with them."

Rumph feels that he is ready to take his game to the D-1 level, and in a big time conference. He says he has improved his speed, strength, & quickness in what will be two years at Navarro. "My play on the field, my actions off the field, and my work ethic has improved so much since coming here," says Rumph.

There are a few things the DE is looking for in his new school next year. "I am looking at their depth chart, academics, how far they are away from home, & the success of the program this year."

Right now, Rumph says he does not have a favorite, as everyone is "sitting even" with him so far. He says he will wait until football season to take any visits, "I am not going to take any visits until after football starts. As of right now, I am not sure where I want to take all of my visits."

In the mean time, Rumph and Navarro JUCO have a season to play. He seems to have some pretty lofty goals, but he believes all of his team & personal goals are reachable, "We want to win a national championship, I want to lead the NCAA in sacks, and I want to be an All American, those are my goals," Rumph says.

Whether Rumph and his team are able to reach those goals remains to be seen, but the attention the JUCO DE is receiving right now from some high profile schools is legit. He will make one school a great DE in the coming years.

Florida Prep QB Clint Trickett

TBWNN had the opportunity to speak with Clint Trickett about how his summer has been going, where he is at in the recruiting process, what his goals are for this upcoming football season, and who is in the running for his services.....

- Clint, you have been a very busy body this summer. Your stock seems to be rising faster than any QB in the country right now. What have you taken away from all the camps this summer, and are you satisfied with your performances thus far?

Clint- Well I appreciate the compliment, but I feel like I've gotten better everyday and at every camp, which is something you want. The only camp I wish I could do over is the Seminole Showtime, I had an average performance at best and that’s not what I want.

- You have a pretty long and impressive list of offers that have been thrown your way. With the great summer you have had, have you picked up any more offers lately, or is it still the same group that are after your services?

Clint- I have picked up a couple more offers this summer with USF and Pitt jumping in. I am just blessed that I've gotten the opportunity

- As a youngster, was there a certain QB that you looked up to, and maybe tried to mirror their game? And Why?

Clint- Growing up around college football, I had a few favorite players. My two favorites were Dameyune Craig and Chris Weinke. They're the reason I'm number 16. Also, when Chris sent me a 3 page text message last week, I was humbled to say the least. Both were winners and both made plays.

- You have been to quite a few camps this summer, including Friday Night Lights last weekend. You always hear recruiting services talk about certain recruits, and maybe how good they are. In your opinion, who are the best athletes you have camped with this summer?

Clint- Chris Dunkley always impresses everywhere he goes. Ronal Powell is a DE from California and an absolute animal. Christian Jones is the best Linebacker in Florida (that includes Jeff Luc). Kenny Shaw is the most under rated WR in the country.

- You were in Fayetteville, AR not too long ago with your father. What is it about the University of Arkansas, that has really drawn your attention?

Clint- Coach Petrino is the main reason, actually both of them. The head guy is obviously a offensive genius and there are few that can do it better than him. Besides the coaches that I've known throughout my life, Coach Paul Petrino is the coach I'm closest to out of all the coaches recruiting me. Also, it doesn't get better than the SEC.

- Your senior season at NFC is coming up. What are your expectations for yourself & for your team this coming season? Any personal goals you have set for yourself?

Clint- We start camp August 9th and we are working our way to an undefeated season. Out of 6 state championships, NFC has never had an undefeated season. We just have to stay humble and stay hungry and we will be the first. My only personal goal before the season was to get into the Elite 11 camp, now it's to prove that I should have.

- What is your current weight & height?

Clint- I measured in at FNL at 173 lbs, 6'2 1/4.

- It is almost August now, and nearly time for you to get ready for fall camp. Do you have a timeline on when you are planning on committing?

Clint- Whenever I feel most comfortable.

- If you were to give us a list of schools that you have the most interest in, who would they be, and who would be your favorite at this point?

Clint- All of the schools that have offered me are the ones I'm most interested in. My favorites are (no order) Pitt, Arkansas, & USF.

- Did you get a chance to eat at the Catfish Hole while you were in Fayetteville?

Clint- (laughing) Yes I did and it was wonderful. Of course I got the catfish and the hushpuppies were great. The owner was extremely welcoming.

- Are you planning on making it to a game this fall in Fayetteville, AR?

Clint- As of now, Arkansas would be one of my 5 official visits and I want to take my visits in season to see a game like atmosphere.

- Tell us in your own words, what are the best parts of your game, and what are the area's that you feel like you need to work on?

Clint- Accuracy tends to be the most popular choice by the "recruiting experts", but in my opinion I think my knowledge of the game and leadership are my best attributes. Also, everything needs to get better, but most of all my size. Don’t get that confused with arm strength, but body size.

- What has this process been like for you? We know you have been around the college game with your father. On a personal level, what has this meant to you, to be wanted by so many college football programs? And have you learned anything during the process that maybe you didn’t know before?

Clint- The process has been getting a little bit tiring, with people trying to pull you in every direction. That's a good problem to have though. I'm just lucky to have the opportunity and have God bless me. But I also knew going into it that you can't trust every person.

Arkansas commit DT Jeremiah Jackson

TBWNN got the chance to speak with Jeremiah Jackson and asked him some questions about what it means to be a Razorback, what he expects at Spain Park this year, and how solid he is to the Razorbacks.......

- Jeremiah, you committed to play for the University of Arkansas just over a month ago. How hard of a decision was that for you?

J.J.- It was very tough but anytime you’re making a decision about your future its a tough decision, only because you want to make sure its the right choice. Although a tough decision, I am very excited to be coming to the University of Arkansas.

- This year's trend seems to be committing early. You can clearly see it across the nation, as prep stars like yourself seem to be wanting to get on the bus a lot sooner than in years past. Why do you think that is, and why did you commit so early in the process to Arkansas?

J.J.- Well I cant speak for those guys but as for myself, I did it because I knew Arkansas was the right place for me. After a lot of praying and seeking God about it, I felt no need to wait.

- What would you say are your strengths and weaknesses?

J.J.- My strengths are definitely my hands and explosiveness off the ball, as far as weaknesses. I believe I can improve on every part of my game.

- You guys at Spain Park had an average season last year. What are your goals for this year?

J.J.- We want to win, I was very disappointed in last year, but we experienced growing pains and now we feel prepared to get to the playoffs and make some noise.

- It is a long time until signing day Jeremiah. Are you solid to Arkansas, or do you plan on taking more visits?

J.J.- No sir, I am solid to the Razorbacks.

- What will be your personal/team goals once you step on the University of Arkansas campus?

J.J.- I just want to play early and help the team out anyway I can.

- Since you made your commit to Arkansas. Have other schools backed off, or have some of them just turned up the heat on you?

J.J.- Its been pretty much the same, none have really backed off, and none have really turned up the heat.

- It is a really good day, and you can have any type of food you want. What is your meal going to consist of?

J.J.- (laughs) My moms fried chicken and my grandmas dressing.

- How exciting has this entire process been for you and your family? Has playing SEC football been a life long dream of yours?

J.J.- Its been very exciting, we feel blessed that God has given me the opportunity to free my parents of a major burden.. which is paying for college and growing up in the south, yes sir its always been a dream of mine to play in the SEC.

- What will it mean to you, to wear the Hog on your helmet?

J.J.- Everything. I’m so excited to have that opportunity, but first I have to earn that privilege.

- 76,000 fans packed into Razorback Stadium on a Saturday, calling the Hogs. What is the first thought that comes to your mind?

J.J.- (laughing)I’d probably be thinking of how excited and blessed I am to be playing this game of football at such a high level.