Change Of Tune For RB

Elizabeth, N.J. star running back Ibrahim Halsey has decided that the University of Illinois was just a better fit for him. Ibrahim had made a verbal commitment to the University of Georgia on his Dec. 7 visit to Athens, but right from the start he began to have second thoughts.

"When I went down to Georgia I was very excited about everything I saw," said the 5-foot-11, 190-pounder. "When I had my meeting with coach Richt, I just committed without really thinking -- I was caught up in the moment. I feel bad about it, but I need to do what's right for me. Georgia is a great school and a great program and I wish them all the best but I'm going to Illinois."

The first team AP selection visited Illinois on Nov. 30 and came home very impressed. It was a surprise to everyone back home that he gave a verbal to Georgia after raving about his previous trip with the Illini.

"On the way back home from Georgia, I was feeling a little unsure about what I did. I talked it over with my family and coach and just didn't feel right about going to Georgia."

Halsey also visited Wisconsin on Dec. 14 and had scheduled visits to Georgia Tech and Notre Dame in January.

So is he really committed to Illinois?

"No doubt and you can print it," he said. "I just felt so much more comfortable at Illinois -- the coaches, players and the style of offense that they run. Illinois has the whole package for me and I feel very relieved about the whole thing."