La. DE Josh Smith talks top three, Houston, LSU and Missouri
HARVEY, La. — Josh Smith was offered by Missouri just over a year ago and he committed to the Tigers August 1. After being committed for almost six months, the junior defensive end out of New Orleans (La.) Landry Walker that checked in at 6-feet, 3-inches tall and 250 pounds at the Rivals New Speed Combine backed off his pledge.
Since re-opening his recruitment, Smith has Houston, Iowa State, Middle Tennessee, Southern Miss, Troy and UAB. He is still in talks with LSU, an in-state school and those Tigers are one of his favorites.
He currently has three schools on top of his list.
IN HIS OWN WORDS: "I de-committed from Missouri because I felt like I committed too early and that I just needed to take more time to weight my options out," said Smith. "Since I opened things up I have gotten some new offers and I think more will come. I just wanted to look around some, but I still like Missouri.
"Missouri is still one of my top schools. My top three schools are Houston, LSU and Missouri. I still talk to coach [Brian] Odom (linebackers) and coach [Brick] Haley (defensive line) of Missouri. Nothing has really changed. They still are recruiting me and I love their defensive scheme. I will be going up there for my first visit next week.
"Houston is a school that is pretty close to home and I like how they play. Their defense plays a lot like we play at Landry Walker and I think I could fit in good there. I will be there March 25. The coach I talk to there is coach [A.J.] Blum, the defensive line coach.
"If I got the offer from LSU, that would be pretty big for me. I have been up there and the coaches just tell me they are going to keep recruiting me and building that relationship with me. I would not say I would commit if LSU offered, but they would be up there for me for sure."
RIVALS REACTION: Smith is a prospect who is strong and that moves well for his size. Obviously, you have to watch LSU if the Tigers decide to offer, but it does not appear one is imminent. Houston and Missouri are the two at the top and the Cougars could have a small edge at this time. Smith said that his family would be able to see him a lot if he chose the Cougars. The next two weekends could be big as he plans to see Houston and Missouri for the first time.
