Illinois impresses Juco OL

Four-star offensive guard Brandon Walker out of Coffeyville (Kan.) Community College took his second official visit of the recruiting season to Illinois. The 6-foot-3, 315-pounder had a wonderful time in Champaign, but what was it that stood out about his visit?

"I had a lot of fun at Illinois," he said. "All the players and coaches are fun and it's a really nice college town. I got there on Friday around 5 PM and took a tour of the indoor facilities and then I ate and met up with my host Pierre Thomas who was a cool guy. That night we went out to party. On Saturday, I took a tour of the classrooms and academics. I also sat down and watched film with my position coach.

"Finally today I talked with coach Zook and that went really well. He told me how there was a big need for offensive linemen and how I can make a difference in the program. I could see that they have a sophomore guard that I could probably come in and take his spot."

Walker rated his trip to Illinois a solid nine.

"Everything there was nice and fun. I really enjoyed myself with the coaches and facilities," he said. "I've known many of these coaches a long time now because they were recruiting me out of high school in Detroit."

Heading into this visit, the No. 10 junior college prospect in the country had Oklahoma as his leader, but the Illini are right in there according to Walker.

"I'd say it's neck-and-neck between those two for my top spot," he said. "I like Oklahoma because I know they are going to compete for a national title very soon. They also have a need on the offensive line and I can come in and play early. I'd see my visit to Illinois was just as good as my one to Oklahoma."

Next week Walker is taking his third official to Arizona State.

"I'm hoping to have a good time out there and enjoy myself," he said. "I don't have many expectations because I'm hoping to learn a lot. All I know is that they have warm weather."

Three other schools Walker continues to be interested by are Oklahoma State, Michigan State and Tennessee.

"I don't know much about Oklahoma State so I want to go there and see how it is," he said. "The thing about Michigan State is that they are closer to home, but that's not important to me anymore because I've been away for two years. Finally, Tennessee is a good program and was one of my favorite teams growing up. I also know Walter Fisher who already committed to them, so I know he's going to try to get me to come there with him."