Buffs in good shape with RB

Mission Viejo, Calif., is always one of the top talent producing programs in California and it looks like the program is stacked again this year. One of its top prospects for the class of 2007 is two-star all-purpose running back Brian Lockridge.

The 5-foot-7, 164-pound Lockridge has scholarship offers from Colorado and Boise State. He said he's definitely thinking hard about the Big 12 program the most.

"I was also hearing from Florida State, Utah and UNLV before the quiet period," he said. "I expect to start getting a bunch of calls when the quiet period is over.

"I like (Colorado) a whole lot. That's one of the schools I've mostly talked to. I like their whole personality. I haven't been able to meet the team yet, so I can't comment on that, but talking to the coaches has been great. I like the sound of their program, and I'm confident in their program's future. They're definitely my top team right now."

Lockridge said he talks most with Darian Hagan at CU, but he's also gotten to know new head coach Dan Hawkins. While CU does hold the No. 1 spot, he's not ready to commit to anything quite yet.

"I'm still open-minded right now, though," he said. "You don't really know about a school until you get there in person and talking to the coaches in person. So, I'm staying open minded.

"I'm not planning on committing early to anyone. My coach doesn't let us take visits during the football season, so I won't be able to take any until after that's over. I don't think I'd make a decision without seeing the school first."

Lockridge, a second-team all-league pick, said he's got a few important things he will look at when it comes time to make a decision.

"I'll be taking a look at the personality of the football program," he said. "The coaching staff, as well as the team, will be important. Also, academically I'm very studious, so that's a big key for me.

"I'm not just a football player; I take academics seriously, as well. I love football, but academics along with the fellowship I share with the team and the coaches, the family-type of bonding, will be the ultimate factor for me. I'll be with these guys for four or five years of my life so the team needs to feel like a family to me. I'm also very religious and if the campus had a church base it would help tremendously."