Cushing meets with Weis

Oradell (N.J.) Bergen Catholic linebacker Brian Cushing and his family played host to new Notre Dame head coach Charlie Weis on Monday night. Will the Irish get an official visit from him?

"I don't think I'm going to take an official there because I've already been," said the 6-foot-4, now 238-pounder. "Coach Weis is as straight forward as they come and very agressive in recruiting. My family all wanted me to schedule a visit and so did coach Weis so it was tough not to, but I held out. I want to make a plan and try to stick with it, but it's confusing."

Cushing has already been to Louisville on an official visit and still has his trip set to Southern Cal for Jan. 16, the day after the U.S. Army All-American Bowl.

"That's still on, but it might move," he said. "I know for a fact I want to take a visit to USC and that would be the easiest when it comes to flying, but I also might just want to come home after the week in San Antonio. Right now I plan on taking the trip to USC that Sunday through Tuesday though. Coach Carroll called me Tuesday night a couple hours before kickoff. That was cool. For him to be thinking of me when he had so many other things on his mind, that was really cool."

The only other date set right now for sure is Miami on Jan. 21. His official visit to Florida could happen either right before or right after his Miami trip.

"I might go to Florida first and then straight to Miami or do Miami first and go to Florida from there," he said. "Those might be my last two official visits as well. I'm leaning towards taking four officials and then taking the last couple of weeks to just think about things."

Where does that leave Boston College and Virginia, two other schools Cushing has been interested in for a long time?

"BC is just three hours away, so I could do that unofficially," he said. "I'm not sure about Virginia at this point. If I take a fifth visit it will be between those two I think. Notre Dame wanted me to come out on Jan. 28, but I don't want to waste a trip if I decide to take a fifth. My trip to Notre Dame was great back during the season and I now have a feel for coach Weis, so they're in there with the others."

Does USC still lead the way?

"Yes, they've been on top for awhile," he said. "They're the No. 1 team in the nation and I can't wait to take a look out there."

Cushing is ranked as the No. 50 player in the nation and No. 4 outside linebacker. He is looking forward to the All-American Bowl.

"I'm up to 238 pounds and ready to go," he said. "I can't wait to get out there and compete against the best."