2009 RB puts up monster numbers

There's plenty of talent on the offensive side of the ball in St. Louis in the 2009 class.

Everybody already knows about St. Louis University High running back Ronnie Wingo and Gateway tight end Sheldon Richardson, but there's another offensive star putting up big numbers and garnering attention from the college coaches. That other guy – who will definitely be a household name by next season – is Wentzville (Mo.) Timberland running back Montee Ball.

The 5-foot-11, 204-pounder has put up monster numbers again this season after earning first-team all-conference, first-team all-district and second-team all-state honors in 2006.

"Our team is 8-1 this season, with our only loss against a very good Class 5 team in double overtime," Ball said.

"We're traveling to Hannibal this weekend to try and clinch the Class 4, District 8 championship and get ready for the playoffs. I currently hold the Missouri state rushing yards per game records and all the rushing records at my school."

So far this season, Ball has rushed for 2,284 yards and 22 scores. He averages 8.5 yards a rush. He's also got three receptions for 33 yards – good for an 11.0 average.

"I don't know if he's as fast as the kid at SLUH, but few are," Timberland coach Craig Collins said.

"But Montee is a tough runner that really gets the job done for us. We know we can count on him to always pick up positive yards, and he can turn any play into a touchdown if you give him the slightest chance."

Ball is already starting to get plenty of recruiting attention.

"I'm getting mail from Louisville, Iowa, Illinois, Florida, Kansas, Nebraska, Minnesota, Washington, Alabama, Florida State and Florida," Ball said. "My top six college choices are Louisville, Iowa, Illinois, Florida, Kansas and Nebraska."

Ball is searching for his first offer, but with the numbers he's put up and his reported 4.5-second time in the 40-yard dash, he's sure to have some early looks.

Ball said the football team's offensive style, academics, coaching tenure, location and the chance to play early will be the biggest factors in his decision.