Bulldogs early leader for 2012 QB

Class of 2012 pro-style quarterback Chad Voytik admittedly is a long way from picking a school, but that hasn't stopped him from naming an early leader.

"Definitely Mississippi State," Voytik said Saturday.

The Bulldogs are one of two programs Voytik claims offers from, the other being Vanderbilt. He also is hearing from, among others, Clemson and Virginia, each of which he said has given him the vibe offers could be on the way.

The 6-foot, 195-pounder, who is from Cleveland Tenn., completed 121 of 211 passes for 1,850 yards, 17 touchdowns and five interceptions in 2010. He rushed for 439 yards and seven touchdowns.

Voytik competed in the annual U.S. Army National Combine last week in San Antonio. Rivals.com recognized him for his showing by naming him an honorable mention selection at his position.

"I felt like I did really well," Voytik said. "I know sometimes the people picking the first team and second team are going to look at height and everything first, then how you perform. I know 6-foot isn't prototypical size, but I felt like I out-threw the rest of the quarterbacks there in my group. I came away feeling really confident in how I did."

Now, regarding Mississippi State …

According to Voytik, he attended a Bulldogs camp last summer and had the chance to interact with head coach Dan Mullen. In the fall, he went to a game in Starkville. Both trips were positive experiences.

"They really feel like I could be their guy someday," Voytik said. "It's a good place to be. It's a good atmosphere. It's definitely a college town and has a good feel to it."

What has put the Bulldogs in front?

"How they showed confidence in me early," Voytik said. "They trusted my skills enough to offer me. I'd definitely say they're in front. Obviously, they're a program on the rise."

But, he added, "that doesn't mean I don't have an open mind."