DT favors PSU, MD, UNC

One of the top defensive tackles in Pennsylvania in 2006 is Downington East's Mike Lukenda.

The 6-foot-2, 260-pounder out of Exton (Pa.) Downington East has already received heavy interest from Rutgers, Syracuse and Indiana. He's also heard from Penn State, North Carolina, Georgia, Michigan and Maryland.

Lukenda hopes to hear from Wake Forest and Clemson in the future.

"I really like both of those schools, particularly in the North Carolina, South Carolina area."

This season Lukenda helped Downington East to an 8-2 record as they just missed the playoffs. He went on to post eight sacks, one interception and three fumble recoveries as he was named first team all-Chestmont, first team all-area, best defensive player in the Chestmont region and best defensive tackle in the area.

"At the beginning of the season our offense was known for scoring a lot of points, but our defense would give up even more, but by the end of the season our defense was ranked number one in the league," Lukenda said. "We impressed a lot of people with how our defense played.

"I definitely improved my run stopping this year as well as taking on combo blocks and teams double teamed me a lot more this season."

So what is he looking for out of a school?

"Location is going to be a big factor," he said. "I'm looking for the prestige of the school, the coaches and a team that is focused on defense. I'd prefer a football atmosphere where the college and sports team are the main attraction and I'm looking for a school in the country area, although I'd like to be closer to home and stay on the East Coast. Finally, academics will play a huge part.

What are the top schools on his list?

"I would say Penn State, North Carolina and Maryland are my top three schools right now," Lukenda said. "Penn State, I've always loved because I live here. I like the whole football atmosphere and how they are focused on football, as well as all the fan support at the games is unbelievable and the facilities are amazing. North Carolina and Maryland have been my favorite schools my whole life."

Which of those three has the edge in the early going?

"I'm a huge fan of North Carolina, mostly for their basketball team, but I love the whole school. I think if it came down to it, I'd choose them over any other school."

This spring Lukenda plans to attend the Nike Camp at Penn State.

As for this summer, he mentioned he's looking into heading to summer camps at Maryland, Penn State, Rutgers and Wake Forest.