Fresno State lands talented NorCal DE

Clovis (Calif.) Buchanan is loaded with talent this year and could have as many as five guys sign with a Div I school next February. Offensive lineman Justin Prueitt has already committed to Cal and now defensive end Taylor Smith has made his college choice as well.

"I committed to Fresno State," Smith said. "I've always loved and followed Fresno State, ever since I was a kid. I've been going to their games for a long time and Fresno State was always my No. 1 choice. I went to their prospect camp and then they invited me back to their individual camp. I did pretty well and on the last day, Pat Hill offered me a scholarship.

"I basically committed on the spot. They knew how much I liked them so I don't think they were surprised. It's good to have this out of the way so I can focus on my senior season. We play a brutal schedule and I didn't want to have any distractions."

Smith plays both linebacker and defensive end for Buchanan and said he could play either spot in college.

"I'll play wherever they want me," Smith said. "I think it will depend on how much weight I put on. I'm about 6-3, 230 pounds now so I could play down or play as a standup outside linebacker. I'm just excited about going to Fresno State. Their motto is, 'anyone, anywhere,' meaning they'll take on an any school and don't care where they play them. I believe in that too. They're playing USC next year and I bet they out-hit them. USC might have better athletes but no one will out-hit Fresno State."

Smith had a strong junior season a year ago totaling 84 tackles and 10 quarterback sacks. He also looked good at the NorCal Nike camp where he clocked a 4.84 in the 40, jumped 31 inches in the vertical and did 23 reps on the bench.