Its hard to overlook Virginia OT Crane

Spotsylvania, Va. is home to a big 2008 offensive tackle Bruce Crane. According to his head coach Myron Matthias, colleges are just starting to take notice of the 6-foot-5, 280-pounder.

"As of right now, the only mail I get for him is from Virginia," he said. "That's probably because he didn't play his sophomore year, but he played well as a junior and now is trying to get his name out there. I do know that he would definitely like to stay in-state."

Matthias believes Crane will possibly attend Virginia's camp this summer.

Last season the Commonwealth lineman registered 24 pancakes on his way to honorable mention all-district honors.

"I think he could play either side of the ball," he said. "This season was his first playing on the offensive line and he led our team in pancakes and grading out. He's a tough, aggressive kid that is still learning the position, but has a lot of potential. I think once the weight room kicks in, he has the chance to be a real good player for us next season.

"Defensively, he moves well and has good feet. I think there's a chance he has the potential to play there too."

Matthias spoke highly of his talented lineman off the field too.

"He's a hardworking kid that is yes sir, no sir," he said. "He goes 110% in everything he does and is definitely one player you can count on. He's got the respect of his teammates and works hard in practice every day.

"As a student, he's got some work to do. He's back on track and finishing up strong this year."

Matthias believes Crane isn't the only recruit at Spotsylvania this year with athlete Freddy Richardson starting to pick up interest.

"He's a playmaker and nasty for us," he said. "He does a bit of everything. Plays quarterback, wide receiver, running back and is a return man. Anytime you get the ball in his hands, he makes plays and has the speed to take it all the way.

"Recruiting hasn't taken off. I think a lot of it will depend on how much stronger he gets and if he commits himself to the weight room. He does have the potential to play at a high level and could go to the Division I-A or I-AA."

The 5-foot-10, 170-pounder earned honorable mention all-district wide receiver and second team all-district defensive back last season.

What stands out about the athlete as a person?

"Freddy is a very competitive kid that wants to win and will do whatever he can to help the team win," he said. "He's got a little bit of work to do in the classroom, but he's on track."