Cox has attention of major programs

To say the least, receiver James Cox of Tuscaloosa (Ala.) Northridge is enjoying the 2011 season. His team is 6-0 and ranked. And he has been a big factor.

"I've got somewhere between 25 and 30 catches," Cox said. "And I've got three touchdowns right now. I feel like I'm playing great. Way better than last year. My blocking is tremendous."

On the recruiting front, the 6-feet, 190-pound Cox has one offer. It came from Mississippi State earlier this year. He said he also is hearing from a number of other programs.

"FSU, LSU, Auburn … Auburn is starting to recruit me pretty heavy now," Cox said. "Tennessee has actually started to make some noise. Louisville has invited me to a couple games. Oregon, Vanderbilt, Ole Miss, Notre Dame, N.C. State and Georgia Tech [also are recruiting him]. Probably Auburn, Tennessee, Vanderbilt, LSU, Alabama and Mississippi State [are showing the most interest]."

Who might be next to offer?

"I think it will be Vanderbilt or Auburn just because of the way the coaches have been talking," Cox said. "I have to call them. Coach [Trooper Taylor] really wants me down there. So I've got to get down there for a game. Every time I get a chance to talk to him, he tells me he wants me to get there. I haven't had a chance yet."

Cox has, however, seen the hometown Tide play.

"I've been to all the Bama games," he said. "I know I want to go watch Tennessee play. I want to go watch Auburn. I want to get down to LSU for a game. I think I might go see Ole Miss play. I know I will be at Mississippi State for the Alabama game. And I know I'll be at the Iron Bowl at Auburn."

Keith Niebuhr can be reached at kneebs01@aol.com. You can follow him on Twitter @KeithRIVALS.