Lucas has two official visits in mind

PHOENIX, Ariz. -- Paul Lucas admits he had to work through an academic hurdle or two. He doesn't mind discussing those, either. That's mostly due to the fact that, according to Lucas, they're in the past.

These days, the four-star running back is concerted on his senior season and his impending college choice. Life is simpler for Lucas now, and that's just the way he likes it.

"I'm just setting up my visits right now because I just got put in the NCAA clearinghouse, so I'm trying to figure out the top five," Lucas said. "Everything is good on the grades front now."

And so the speedy Lucas will move forward. He has no dates for official visits set in stone as things stand now, but he does have a pair of destinations finalized. According to Lucas, he will take officials to both Oregon State and in-state Arizona State, the program that most believe leads his recruitment.

"Ever since they offered, they have been at the top because they are a real good program and in Arizona. I'm not sure there is one clear leader, really, but I like Arizona State and how they would use me."

According to Lucas, who plays multiple positions at Mountain Pointe, every school but Wisconsin plans to use him as a slot wide receiver at the college level. The badgers would instead use him as a running back. Still, Oregon State's scheme in particular has his attention.

"Oregon State's offense is a true pro-style offense, so it will give NFL scouts a really good look," Lucas said. "They've been putting receivers in the NFL for a while. They have had a really good receiving corps for the last three of four years. They have been running jet sweeps and stuff, so I know they will do that with me if I go there."

Beavers wide receivers coach Brent Brennan is spearheading Lucas' recruitment for Oregon State.

Lucas, who lists a total of 10 scholarship offers, has been one of defensing state champions Mountain Pointe's best offensive weapons for the better part of two seasons but has missed significant time this year because of an injury to his ankle. He has set no timetable for a verbal commitment.