Gwaltney set for final visit

Back in the summer, Long Island (N.Y.) North Babylon running back Jason Gwaltney was all set to take an official visit to West Virginia sometime in January just to cement his commitment to the Mountaineers. My how things have changed in a few months. Now Gwaltney is ready for his West Virginia trip as an uncommitted player, and the 'Neers are trying to earn his commitment once again.

"I leave for West Virginia on Thursday and come back Saturday morning," said the 6-foot-0, 234-pounder. "Then it's off to San Antonio for the All-American Bowl. It will be a busy couple weeks."

This is the last official visit for Gwaltney as he's already been to Ohio State, Central Florida, Southern Cal and Michigan State.

"Central Florida is out," he said. "Beyond that my top three are West Virginia, Southern Cal and Ohio State with Michigan State a little bit behind them."

Gwaltney, who rushed for nine touchdowns in one game this past season, is ranked as the No. 5 running back in the country and the No. 29 player overall. There had been rumors that he committed to Southern Cal on his visit in December.

"Those rumors have pretty much faded," he said. "That didn't happen. I never committed to them. West Virginia was the only school I committed to, but that was too soon. I'm glad I checked around and have some things to compare right now. I am looking forward to my visit to West Virginia."

Gwaltney was originally going to announce his decision during the U.S. Army All-American Bowl, but thinks he needs a bit more time.

"I don't want to rush it again," he said. "I'd like to let the West Virginia visit sit for awhile, enjoy the week in San Antonio and then come back home and weigh things out. I'll probably commit on ESPNews sometime near Signing Day."