Benn on birthday

Washington (D.C.) Dunbar wide receiver Arrelious Benn has narrowed his list down to five schools and has a decision date in mind although it's not set in stone. If Benn has his way, he'll make his decision on his birthday, Sept. 8.

"That's just a date I'm throwing out there," said the 6-foot-2, 210-pounder. "That's what I'd like to do but I haven't set anything up yet or anything like that. I'd just like to do it on my birthday, that would be cool."

Benn is down to Florida State, Miami, Notre Dame, Southern Cal and Maryland as his final five. He's already been to Maryland and Notre Dame and hopes to visit his other three this summer.

"I'm visiting USC at the end of June or beginning of July and I plan on getting down to Tallahassee and Miami during the summer as well."

Benn admitted that three schools of those five stand out a bit.

"Notre Dame, Southern Cal and Florida State are a bit out in front," he said. "I've been to Notre Dame twice and I feel I could fit in there. The offense and coaching there is great. USC I like the program and the offense. How do you have two 1,000-yard rushers and still pass for all that yardage? That's a great offense.

"As for Florida State, I always liked FSU, I grew up on them. They've always been one of my favorites and I like the offense. They don't have any big, physical receivers like me so I think I fit."

Benn said if he needs to delay his decision he will.

"If I need my official visits, I'll take them," he said. "I'd like to get it over with early, but if I'm not ready then I won't rush."