Illinois visit only average for DT

Defensive tackle Garrett Brown out of Fairfield (Conn.) Fairfield Prep took his second of three consecutive official visits this weekend to Illinois. The 6-foot-2, 286-pounder enjoyed his time in Champaign, but certain aspects dragged his visit down.

"I'd rate my trip there a six or seven," he said. "They are kind of out there in the middle of nowhere and I'm used to the city. It wasn't really that bad of a trip, I still had a good time and I thought it went really well, but it was very different and I tend to like the city a little more.

"I got there Friday morning and they took us on a campus tour and then I met with the academic advisors and position coaches. On Saturday, I went to the senior banquet and hung out with my host Rashard Mendenhall that was good and he showed me what the school had to offer and how they are a family there. He also stated that their record doesn't reflect the type of team they are and he thinks they are on the rise."

Brown's flight left early this morning, but last night he met up with coach Zook.

"I talked to him for awhile last night," he said. "We talked about where they stand and how they are turning the program around and I can be a big part of that. I really like how he's really energetic and passionate. He also talked to me about playing time and mentioned there is an opportunity to play early to earn your spot."

Last week the three-star prospect went to Rutgers. How did the Illinois visit compare?

"I can't really compare them, but I'd say they were both good," he said. "I don't want to put one above the other since I still have one more visit next week. I can say both of the schools were very different."

This week Brown heads to Minnesota. What does he like about them?

"I can't wait to go there and see what it is like," he said. "I have a cousin that lives out there and I really like the city atmosphere and can't wait to check out Minneapolis. I know they have also been talking to me about playing as a freshman, so that's another plus."