Houston prospects wait for offers

Miami (Fla.) offensive lineman Reginald Youngblood is the inspiration to Houston Booker T. Washington athletes James Cooper and Dennis Smith.

"I saw him on television the other night against Florida State," Cooper said. "I kept looking for him on the sideline and there he was with Dajleon Farr. He said they have become good friends and they like it up there."

While their highly recruited teammate from a year ago is on the tube, Cooper and Smith are fighting to get there. Cooper is being recruited as a cover corner, and Smith has the size and motor to be a legitimate defensive end. Both are getting assistance from their counselors and will be taking the standardized tests in October.

Cooper likes Oklahoma State and would commit if offered, while Smith is hearing from Arkansas, Texas Tech and UTEP.

"I'm doing it all right now from returning kicks, catching passes and playing defense," Cooper said. "I've got two picks right now. I'd say I'm a cover guy who isn't afraid of coming up to hit."

Cooper's former teammate and Oklahoma State wide out Jeremy Broadway can attest to his skills having gone up against Cooper in practice for years. Cooper's interest in the Cowboys also has something to do with is former teammate.

Smith has four sacks in two games for Washington and can measure himself against one of the best ends in the area – Rajon Henley of Galveston Ball – who Washington will face this weekend.

"I'm getting a lot of mail and I'm just waiting to see what happens," Smith said. "I worked out a lot this summer, but also had to help out my mom doing some jobs. I know Ball has some ends over there, but I can play too."