DT Holmes picks Rutgers

Hoboken, N.J. defensive tackle Isaac Holmes was supposed to wait until Wednesday to announce his college destination. And he was also expected to choose between Pitt and Maryland with Rutgers on the outside looking in. But as with everything recruiting, things change quickly.

"Isaac committed to Rutgers on Monday," said Hoboken head coach Lou Taglieri of his 6-foot-3, 295-pounder. "I was shocked to be honest because I really thought he was going to either Maryland or Pitt but he told me he felt so much more comfortable at Rutgers on his visit and felt he fit in better. Kyle Flood did a great job recruiting him and he's the main reason Rutgers is getting Isaac."

Holmes was expected to announce his decision on Wednesday but his coach felt there was no reason to wait.

"I contacted Pitt and Maryland and told them on Monday," he said. "If he knows where he's going then there's no point in waiting. At least this gives those two schools a couple of days to maybe find a replacement rather than being stuck out of luck on Signing Day. I have a good relationship with the coaches at both Maryland and Pitt and I don't see any reason for them to have to wait to find out."

The four-star Holmes is a great get for Rutgers.

"With Isaac and Antwan Lowery Rutgers has a great pair of defensive tackles," Taglieri said. "Rutgers is obviously a rising program and it looks like they have a strong recruiting class. In Isaac they are getting a smart kid, a hard worker and an impact player."