2014 DT returns to Purdue

Heavily-recruited class of 2014 defensive tackle Enoch Smith Jr. of Chicago Mt. Carmel raved about a mid-summer visit to Purdue. On Saturday, the 6-foot-3, 265-pound prospect returned to West Lafayette for the Boilermaker's season opener.

"Going down there [Saturday] to see them play Eastern Kentucky, the fans were involved the entire time," Smith said.

Smith attended Saturday's game with his teammate and classmate, Nate Oquendo and had a chance to talk with head coach Danny Hope.

"I had a short conversation with Coach Hope," Smith said. "He was telling me he wants me to be a Boilermaker when it is time to make my decision. He told me to enjoy the recruiting process and remember he wants me to play on his team. I told him I enjoyed myself at the game and when I came down last time to visit."

Now having visited Purdue for an academic tour and a game day experience, Smith holds the Boilermakers in high esteem.

"I am extremely excited about them overall, especially with the academics they have there," Smith said. They have a great football team and will be able to improve on what they have.

Purdue is one of eight schools that has already offered Smith. He is scheduled to take the ACT this coming Saturday, and his season schedule affects other potential unofficial visit weekends. At this time no other fall game visits are scheduled.

"If I had the opportunity I would love to see all the teams, but I know that's not possible," Smith said.

College coaches have been able to email and message class of 2014 recruits since the start of September, and Smith reported contact with Michigan State, Michigan, Minnesota, Vanderbilt, Illinois, Cincinnati, Georgia Tech. Smith also received a message from Oklahoma, which is a school he had not heard much from in the past.

"I had received a message on Facebook from Oklahoma," Smith said. "He messaged me and said he looks forward to getting to know me."

Smith recorded two sacks and a forced fumble in his game this past weekend to help lead his team to a 2-0 start. This Friday they will take on Chicago De La Salle which features fellow class of 2014 prosepcts Mikale Wilbon and Jamarco Jones.