Hogs, Noles, Terps top DTs list

Three-star Newnan (Ga.) defensive tackle Earnest Mitchell Jr. is having a monster senior season that he hopes will culminate in a state title.

“We’re 11-1 right now, and right now the only thing on my mind is getting that championship,” he said. “It’s been a great season for me. I’ve had 124 tackles, 18 tackles for loss, 10 sacks and 20 quarterback hurries, but most of all I want the championship. We have a huge game Friday night against Parkview.”

Until his final game is wrapped up, Mitchell (6-1, 280, 4.85) says he’s tried to put recruiting on the back burner.

“It’s kind of hard, though, because I’m getting all kinds of calls and people visiting,” he said. “FSU came here tonight. Coach Odell Haggins was at the house. I had a good time hanging out with him. Maryland came to our practice, too. It’s been pretty crazy.”

Mitchell said Florida State, Arkansas and Maryland top his current list of favorites. He plans to take official visits to all three of those schools.

“I’m also thinking about Clemson and Auburn,” he said. “Auburn is showing more interest now. They thought I wasn’t interested in them by the way I talked on the phone, but the last time they called, I told them that’s just how I talk with everybody. I try not to get too excited. So they might be another school I want to visit.”

Any leader at this point?

“No. They’re all about even,” he said. “They’re all good schools for football and academics. It will come down to where I feel like I fit in best, where I feel the most comfortable.”

Academically, Mitchell carries a 2.6 GPA and has scored a 17 on the ACT.