Huge NC TE picks Heels over Cavs

The Tar Heels added some more local talent when Charlotte (N.C.) Providence Day School tight end Vince Jacobs committed to North Carolina over an offer from rival Virginia.

The 6-foot-7, 218-pounder was down to North Carolina and Virginia before making his final decision. What made him want to stay in-state?

"There are so many positives about both schools," he said. "Both have great football and academics. For me, it just came down to the little things like my relationship to the coaches. I realized that Virginia has a few tights ends my size, while North Carolina doesn't. I think I can stand out and have a bigger impact at UNC because of my uniqueness to the program.

"I like everything about UNC, everything there is first class. They are an up-and-coming program and were the only team from North Carolina to go to a bowl game last year. It's a great place to be and I'm excited about this recruiting class, we're going to try to make it one of the better ones in school history."

Growing up in-state, Jacobs has always been a fan of the Tar Heels. What does it mean for him to finally become part of the team?

"I guess it's like a dream come true, to be a part of the home state school and a great program," he said. "I'm creating a legacy for myself and the school at UNC."

The tight end prospect told coaches Bunting and Brock of his decision this afternoon.

"Coach Bunting was very excited as was coach Brock, my recruiting coordinator," he said. "They both said they are looking forward to my visit to UNC on August 11th. One thing the coaches said that stuck out was that they feel North Carolina is a better program now then it was 20 minutes ago and I feel the same way."

Jacobs impressive size should create difficult situations for opponents.

"I think I can bring them a tight end that's going to create a lot of mismatches for ACC teams," he said. "A lot of ACC teams play man coverage and that leaves me alone to make plays. I hope UNC is looking to explore and take advantage of that."

After the pressure of deciding between two schools, the tight end prospect is happy to have the decision behind him.

"I'm really excited now that it's all over," he said. "Now I can concentrate on Providence Day and look to have a successful season. The number one thing I know I need to improve on is pure strength. That's my number one priority between now and next July. I want to be strong enough to compete, be healthy and successful. I don't want to be too weak where I get injured all the time."

As stated above, Jacobs is planning to visit North Carolina on August 11th. He is also planning for an official visit sometime this winter after his senior season is done. Though he won't take an official during the season, the prospect is planning to attend as many games as possible.

"It's just going to be exciting to go watch them and I'm looking forward to doing it," he said. "I understand if there's going to be some rebuilding, but their outlook is good and they are a bowl-caliber team."

Jacobs had one final word to say to other North Carolina recruits.

"North Carolina is a great up-and-coming program and we're building a great recruiting class," he said. "To all the in-state players, come help build our school to be one of the top schools in the nation."

Jacobs hauled in 12 receptions for 153 yards and four touchdowns his junior year.