Florida DB has a favorite
One of the Sunshine State's top prospects says he
likes the direction and opportunity available in Kentucky's program.
Advertisement
"Right now I'm open, but Kentucky is No. 1 on my
list," said Hollywood Hills defensive back
Donnell Ford. "They've been one of the most interested teams
recruiting me, them and Wake Forest. Both of those have told me I have a
chance to come in and contribute early, which is the big thing I'm looking
for, and with Kentucky playing in the SEC, I see that as a big opportunity.
"I know they're losing their starting safety, and
coach (Wesley) McGriff tells me I have the ability to come in and compete
with their other players for that job."
Ford (6-2, 180, 4.5) is a three-star player and a member of the Rivals.com
Top 100 team. As a junior, he recorded 109 tackles and
established a reputation as an enforcer in the secondary. Through seven
games this season, he's made approximately 50 tackles and intercepted one
pass.
He's receiving regular interest from Florida,
Colorado State, Kansas State, Missouri, Iowa and UConn in addition to the
Wildcats and Demon Deacons. Each school on his list has offered a
scholarship.
Asked why the home state Florida Gators aren't a
bigger factor in his thinking process, Ford said it's a matter of playing
time.
"I like their program and all, don't get me wrong,"
he said. "But if I went there or Miami, I may be a junior before I ever get
a chance to play. I've been looking at the depth charts and that sort of
thing, so it may be to my advantage to go out of state. I don't mind that at
all. It would be nice to experience something new, plus I like the
educational programs they're talking about at Kentucky and Wake Forest. Both
of them sound strong in that area."
After Kentucky and Wake Forest, Ford rounded out his
top five with Colorado State, UConn and Iowa or Syracuse. "I'll have to wait
and see on that last spot. Syracuse was real interested, but I haven't heard
as much from them lately as the other teams."
He's planning a visit to Kentucky on Nov. 16 to see
the Wildcats play Vanderbilt.