Major programs eyeing 2014 Louisville pledge
Travonte Valentine, defensive tackle from Bayside High School in Palm Bay, Fla., had one of the top overall performances at the Rivals.com Underclassmen Challenge this past weekend. Valentine gave an early commitment to Louisville, but he is considering other schools. He also has a SEC trip planned for this weekend.
"It's good to come out and compete against good people from across the country," said Travonte Valentine. "It was an honor to come out here and compete against other top players. There are players out there who don't have offers who are going to come out of this event with offers.
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"I am trying to get up there to five-stars with guys like De'Shawn Hand and Andrew Brown. I was happy to see them do their thing at the Rivals Five-Star Challenge and represent the 2014 class."
The Rivals.com Underclassmen Challenge Co-MVP on the defensive line talked about his early commitment.
"I committed early because of the coaching staff," Valentine said of Louisville. "They are respectful, and I respect them. They treat me like family. I like the facilities and the town. When I talk to the coaches on the phone it's always very good."
Valentine discussed some of the other schools showing high interest.
"Clemson is definitely a school I like," he said. "I'll always keep them as a favorite. I like the defense at Florida State. I like their facilities and football field. My coach at my school was a defensive end at Florida State. I also like Florida. My coach coached Reggie Nelson back in the day.
"Alabama is definitely a school I am considering. I am also looking at Oregon. I hope to get an offer from LSU soon. I like them. I also like Texas."
Valentine has received several scholarship offers including Louisville, Alabama, Auburn, Michigan State, West Virginia and Marshall. Valentine says his commitment to Louisville is about "80-percent" at this time. He'll visit Tuscaloosa this weekend.
"I am going back up to Alabama this week," he said. "It's cool up there. I like talking to Bobby Williams. He is my recruiting coach. I am definitely interested in Alabama."
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