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Augusta picks the Tigers

Once he decided to forgo an official visit to Illinois this weekend, Peoria (Ill.) defensive tackle Josh Augusta's college selection became a foregone conclusion. On Saturday, the three-star prospect made his commitment official.
"It's Missouri," Augusta said. "I just really love the coaches, and they have a real good academic system set up there for me."
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Missouri has been the leader for Augusta since the fall, but a Dec. 7 official visit to Columbia assured the Illinois native that he wanted to be a Tiger.
"It was just a good atmosphere," Augusta said. "There were a lot of players I connected with. They were real cool, and I like how when you first come in they set you up with a 'big brother' who guides you through your freshman year."
Assistant coach Cornell Ford was Augusta's primary recruiter from Missouri. Head coach Gary Pinkel made his in-home visit last weekend and impressed the Augusta family.
"My mom loves him a lot," Augusta said.
At 6-foot-5 and 300 pounds, Augusta is athletic for his size. He played tight end and even wide receiver on offense the last two seasons for Peoria Central but will project to the defensive line in college. Although academics and overall comfort were the most important factors in his decision, Augusta said he "like[s] the defense a lot."
Augusta, who also plays basketball for Peoria Central, finished his senior football campaign as an all-state selection. He was grateful for the help from many in his community for helping him reach this point in his career.
"I just want to thank my coaches, all my teachers, my family and Coach Bloom's mom for helping me with my decision," he said.
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