Crest Senior has three more to watch in 2008

Linebacker Duane Maddox isn't the only player to watch out of Shelby (N.C.) Crest Senior in 2008. Three other players are getting major looks according to head coach Roy Kirby.

The first is 6-foot-5, 330-pounder offensive lineman Todd Blanton.

"I think he's going to be a big-time recruit," he said. "Right now he's sort of under the radar, but once highlight tapes get out on him coaches will be coming back. I'd be very surprised if the ACC schools don't go after him."

Kirby went on to say what stands out about his first team all-conference lineman.

"We had him at left tackle because of his feet and size, but I see schools sliding him in probably to center," he said. "He has a terrific shotgun snap. He's not fat at all either. He's one of those guys with big legs and he has a mean streak. He's tough when he gets his hands on you and quick enough to pull out."

Following behind Blanton is 5-foot-11, 195-pound running back Ron Black.

"He's going to be recruited too," he said. "He's already getting looks from North Carolina and North Carolina State. Not a lot of people know about him right now and I don't think he has any favorites. He just wants to go somewhere he can play."

Last season Black ran for 1,000 yards and 12 touchdowns.

"He wasn't our starter and actually split time with our other starter," he said. "He's a powerful running back that likes to run over people. Right now he's already taking a leadership role in the weight room and is just a special kid for us. He's also a good student with a 3.5 GPA."

Rounding out the recruits is 6-foot-2, 250-pound defensive tackle Nelson Bullard.

"I think he's going to be a special lineman," he said. "He played nose guard for us and is very explosive and can run. I think a lot will depend on what he does in the weight room, but he could be very dominant and has a chance to be a special player.

"His speed of the ball is great and he has terrific hands. When he locks on to you, it's hard to get off. Thinking about it, I don't recall anyone single blocking him successfully. He got a lot of double teams and still got in the backfield."

Off the field, Kirby spoke highly of his junior tackle.

"He's a good student and should be a qualifier," he said. "He comes from a great family and just loves to play football. I know coaches want players like that and this kid is hungry to go out there and make plays."

Teams including Clemson and Tennessee have already taken an interest in Bullard.