Lucky 13 for nations top back

Richmond (Va.) Hermitage running back Derrick Green, the nation's top player at his position, has narrowed down his list of schools to 13. With some big unofficial visits coming up this month, he hopes to narrow down things even further before his season starts.

"I'm down to 13, lucky 13," said Green, a 6-foot-0, 215-pounder who is the nation's No. 12 player overall. "In no order, they are Tennessee, Michigan, Oregon, Ohio State, Ole Miss, Virginia Tech, Auburn, Clemson, Alabama, Miami, Pitt, Oklahoma State and Oklahoma."

Green said that each school has something in common, something he is looking for.

"The depth chart is favorable at each, they have good academics and they run the ball a lot," he said. "I also have a good feel for the coaches at each school and playing time is there if you work hard. Those are all key factors."

Green also has some key visits coming up. He's already been to Tennessee, Michigan, Ohio State, Virginia Tech and Clemson and he will see some new schools and take additional visits to others.

"July 15 I'm going to Pitt to check things out," he said. "Then I'm going to Alabama, Auburn and Ole Miss from July 19-21, one school each day. After that I'm going to the Michigan BBQ July 27-29 and I will stop at Ohio State before that. Once I get into August that's football camp time so I can't really take any visits then."

Green hopes to narrow down his list below 10 by the start of his senior season.

"That's the goal," he said. "I don't have any official visits scheduled, after July I want to focus on my season and teammates."

Green will be at The Opening by NIKE this weekend but won't get a chance to see Oregon, one of his top 13.

"I'm looking forward to seeing the area though," he said. "Just seeing what the state is all about."

While Ohio State and Clemson have been named as leaders in the past by Green, he claims no favorites at this time.

"I'm keeping it open and even," he said. "No favorites."