Junior RB with two quick offers

Mike Blakely is a junior in the Class of 2011 that will be considered one of the top running back prospects in the Sunshine State. Blakely, 5-9 and 193 pounds, is at Bradenton Manatee High School. He's off to a big start to this season. In their win against Tampa Plant, he rushed for 85 yards on nine carries. Last week in their victory over Bradenton Bayshore, Blakely rushed for 110 yards on four carries and scored one touchdown.

"We won big," Blakely said. It was a good game for us."

This is a new season for Blakely and he's excited about what's in store. Last year he missed the first half of the year because of a shoulder injury.

"I only played in five games last season. I actually had shoulder surgery the summer of my 10th grade year. I am fine now.

Blakely is a smooth running back prospect with good speed, size and vision. He makes things look easy out on the gridiron.

"I have gotten bigger and gained 12 pounds since last year. I am faster now to because I run track. I am also more focused on football

"Out there I see everything that goes on before it happens. I think I read defenses better than most running backs and I know where to go. I guess it just instincts. I also think I can play in any kind of offense."

So far Blakely has two scholarship offers; from Clemson and Syracuse.

"I went up to Clemson on the way back from a camp and I really liked the coaches there. Of course I like the offense too. I really don't know much about Syracuse right now."

So is there a team to beat for Blakely?

"Everyone in my family played football and there was never one college that I really liked. I just watch everyone. Right now I am open with everyone."

Tomorrow, Manatee takes on Palmetto.