Carson likes three, making plans

Tulsa (Okla.) East Central linebacker Kimmie Carson entered the season holding offers from Arkansas State, New Mexico, and South Dakota, and receiving plenty of interest from several top programs.

The 6-2, 215-pound backer now has a few games under his belt in 2012, and continues to receive considerable interest from college coaches.

"Right now I'm just waiting on the Oregon State official offer. They've offered me unofficially," Carson said. "I'm waiting on Mizzou and Arkansas as well. They said they wanted to see my first three games and I already played four so I should get some feedback in a couple of weeks. That's what I'm waiting on right now."

In addition to Oregon State, Arkansas, and Missouri, Carson has also seen Washington State join the mix. The Cougars have yet to extend an offer, but they invited him up for an official visit and let him know if a scholarship becomes available he's a guy they want.

Carson does not have any official visit dates scheduled but Washington State is one program he plans to check out.

"Whenever Stanvon (Taylor) is going," Carson said of visiting Washington State. "He wanted to go the same day as me, so it really depends on Stanvon and when he's going up there."

Washington State is not the only visit on his mind.

"I was about to go to New Mexico on Saturday, but it's not convenient for my dad. They just told me when I can get down there to let them know," Carson said. "I'm going to take one to New Mexico and Washington State right now, but those are my only two that are set that I'm going on."

Missouri has also talked to Carson about taking an unofficial visit. He has been keeping in touch with the Missouri staff, and he has the Tigers high on his list with a couple of other programs.

"Really Missouri is my top school. That's where I want to go, but it's really out of Mizzou, Arkansas, and New Mexico," Carson said.

"Missouri, I've always been a fan of them. I always watched them as a kid. Arkansas is my second top school. When I went down there last year for a game they had the fans with the pig sooie, I fell in love with it. New Mexico, the reason they're in the top three is because they're showing major interest. They really want me to get down there for an official. They said I could play as a freshman, so we'll see how that goes."

When it comes to a decision, Carson is taking his time as the recruiting picture takes shape. He is currently ranked a 5.5, 3-star prospect, and No. 13 in the Rivals.com Oklahoma Top 20.