George Bell back from NC State

Some believe that when healthy, running back George Bell is the top offensive player in North Carolina. He's back from an official visit. Does one school stand out?

"NC State is at the top of my list," said Bell, who returned from Raleigh on Sunday after watching the Wolfpack beat Texas Tech 49-21. "They've been the team to beat for a while, and they would still be the school I would choose if I had to right now. I really like the way they use the running back as a versatile player in their offense. I want to be able to get a good amount of carries, but I also want the opportunity to catch the ball out of the backfield."

The 5-foot-11, 225-pound back from Fayetteville (N.C.) Jack Britt runs the 40-yard dash in 4.45 seconds and bench presses 365 pounds. What other schools are in the mix?

"Michigan is definitely number two," he said. "I wish they had been able to stay undefeated, but they're still going to have a great year. I love their tradition and the atmosphere surrounding their football program. They run the ball a lot, and that's attractive."

Bell has now taken official trips to NC State and Michigan. Will he take others?

"Yes, I'm going to take all of my official visits before I make my decision. I'm going to North Carolina on Oct. 3rd the weekend they play Virginia. The next week I'll be at Virginia Tech, and then on the 17th I'll be at Miami. I'm going to go to all three of those schools before announcing my decision. But after I take those trips I should be just about set to decide."