Anything is possible for speedy CB

When it comes to defensive backs among the Class of 2009 you won't find many better than Branden Smith. Smith, 5-11 and 175 pounds, is from Atlanta (Ga.) Booker T. Washington High School. Aside from being the nation's No. 54 prospect overall (in the Rivals100), he also happens to be one of the nation's fastest players. This spring he ran the fifth fastest time in Georgia high school history in the 100 meters (10.5) and finished second in the event. Since, he has been working real hard to better his game.

"Actually, I have had a good summer and been working on all areas of my game," Smith said. "I have been working on the basics, especially the fundamentals."

This summer Smith has made two unofficial visits, one to Athens and one to Auburn.

"I got to visit Georgia and it was a very good trip. Georgia treated me real good. I met with the coaches and we had good talks. I am pretty comfortable up there and I feel like I have a good connection with coach (Mark) Richt.

"I worked out at Auburn at their camp and met everybody I needed to meet. I worked well with their DB (Paul Rhoads) coach. I have a good bond with him and feel good over the there too.

Smith has also visited Clemson and Georgia Tech (in the spring).

Smith does have some help with the recruiting process. His older brother (Darrell Hackney) starred at Atlanta (Ga.) Douglass. He went on to quarterback UAB and is now a member of the Denver Broncos. Hackney's best friend, Roddie White, played at UAB and was a first round draft pick by the Atlanta Falcons. He's also Smith's God brother.

"They have both been a big help. They basically told me to take it easy, be patient, to think about things and everything will come. I am just taking things slowly like they have suggested.

"I have nothing right now as far as a top five or ten. I hope to have things narrowed down this season. I guess I am still considering everyone that has offered. Anything is possible."

Georgia, Auburn, Alabama, Florida, LSU, Tennessee, FSU, Clemson, Georgia Tech, Michigan, Notre Dame and South Carolina are just some of the many schools that have extended Smith scholarship offers.