FSU earns big-time commitment

A few years ago Florida State reached into the heart of Tobacco Road and received a commitment from Nick Maddox. Once again the Noles have beaten the 'Heels and Wolfpack out for a stud running back recruit.

"Jamaal verballed to to Florida State yesterday," said Greensboro (N.C.) Dudley head coach Victor Floyd of his star running back Jamaal Edwards. "Florida State was his childhood favorite, and in the end that's what really mattered."

It was a tough choice for the star tailback.

"North Carolina came on strong in the whole recruiting process being the local school, but he's always been a Florida State fan. UNC made a good run for him, but he's a 'Nole at heart.

"He loved the visit down to Florida State, and he saw what he was hoping to see. He loves FSU and we're glad he's found the place for him. He was their No. 1 target at running back and has been to their camp every year since eight grade. It's a dream come true for him."

The 6-foot-0, 202-pound back runs the 40-yard dash in 4.4 seconds and bench presses 320 pounds. He is the No.6 running back in the nation and the No.2 player overall in North Carolina according to Rivals100.com.

There had been rumors that all the Dudley stars -- Martel Thatch, Demario Pressley and Edwards, would try to attend college together. That apparently was only a rumor.

"Oh yes, that was never true," said Floyd. "There's always speculation in recruiting, but people outside of these kids families or close circles don't know what's going on.

"These guys have really grown to be their own men in this process. They've realized that what's best for another guy may not be what's best for them. We all thought Martel would end up at Virginia for the longest time, but it's a very unpredictable process. That's just the way some things are. Demario's decision won't be affected by either Martel or Jamaal's decisions."

As a junior Edwards had 346 carries for 2,387 yards and 31 touchdowns. He was a national junior champion in the 100-meter dash at age 13, and led his team to the 3-A state championship game last year.

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