Army Bowl: Predicting commitments for five top prospects
SAN ANTONIO - Half the week is finished at the U.S. Army All-American Bowl and there are still many uncommitted prospects left on the board. Here is a look at five more as the all-star event continues to roll on.
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The skinny: The former Oregon commit is gearing up for a busy January with a bunch of schools still in contention. Even more programs could get involved as National Signing Day approaches, especially since the four-star has been so tremendous during Army week so far. USC, Nebraska, Oregon and North Carolina are the main contenders with a number of visits coming up.
Prediction: Oregon. It seems like USC could be the trending pick here especially since coach Clay Helton has stepped in up recently and wants to use Lenoir like Adoree’ Jackson. That could be appealing. There’s no doubt Nebraska is in the mix and the hiring of position coach Donte Williams was huge. North Carolina is the outside pick and that would be a surprise. But watch out for Oregon. New coach Willie Taggart is trying his best, the recent hiring of Keith Heyward is big for Lenoir and Los Angeles Salesian teammate Nick Pickett is already committed to the Ducks.
The skinny: Isisbor is serious about finding the right fit both academically and athletically because the three-star wants to be a doctor along with a top defensive end. So to that end UCLA, Arizona State and Texas A&M have emerged, but do not count out Harvard and Yale in his recruitment.
Prediction: UCLA. During his research, Isibor has liked UCLA’s medical offerings plus he’d have the ability to play top-level football while getting an excellent education. Arizona State is still very much in the picture and Isibor seems to like Texas A&M’s football maybe the most, but is a little less thrilled on the academic side.
The skinny: Arizona State, USC and Washington are the three finalists for the four-star prospect who’s had a solid week at Army so far and he’s going to take the next few weeks to really work through his favorites and see which one fits best.
Prediction: USC. The Trojans have targeted Jackson as one of the top priorities in this class and he’s been very receptive throughout the recruiting process. The Sun Devils are definitely a possibility as well since he’s been a top target for years, but our guess is that he plays for the Rose Bowl champs.
The skinny: There could still be a lot going on with Hunter’s recruitment but Virginia Tech and Florida are battling it out with the Hokies having a slight edge at this point. But Hunter is going to visit with the Gators later this month, so that could swing in their favor. Don’t count out Auburn, either, and watch to see if Clemson tries to get back in after missing out on four-star Xavier McKinney to Alabama.
Prediction: Virginia Tech. This one is still very close, but the Hokies have done a great job recruiting the in-state four-star and Virginia Tech also has a tremendous history of great defenses. Florida could be tough here, especially if Hunter is sold on being the next big-time Gators DB to be drafted. Also, if Clemson makes a run at him after losing McKinney, then anything could happen since the Tigers are so hot right now.
The skinny: Slaton will visit Florida the weekend of Jan. 20 and that’s a big one because it’s no secret the Gators are the team to beat. He said so himself this week during Army practice. Ole Miss and Kentucky are also possibilities for January visits with Baylor making a late push to steal the four-star away. Miami is also in his top five.
Prediction: Florida. It would be a shocker if Slaton doesn’t end up with the Gators, especially since he said they’re out front this week and he’s going to take his official visit to Gainesville in a few weeks to firm things up. Miami might be able to slide in there if Slaton doesn’t feel the Gators are the right fit. Others would be a long shot at this point.
