MD back chooses UNC

The Tar Heels have added more speed to their backfield with the 22nd commitment of the recruiting season in running back Aaris Reed. The Waldorf (Md.) Westlake star told coach Bunting, Thigpen and Powell of his decision this morning.

"I told my coach at weight training this morning of my decision and then I called UNC's coaches," he said. "Coach Powell, Thigpen and Bunting were all on the phone at the same time and very excited. They told me I'll be doing a little bit of everything there including catching screens, power running and just being an all-purpose back. I'm looking forward to getting down there and I can't wait until Signing Day."

What stood out about the Tar Heels to Reed as he chose them over offers from Marshall, Akron, Illinois and Vanderbilt?

"I've always liked the school, ever since I was little and I finally got the opportunity to go there," he said. "I saw them beat Miami last year and that was really exciting and the next thing you know January comes around and they offered me. Then I went down there and I just fell in love with the campus and coaching staff. I felt this was the place I needed to be. The atmosphere and campus is beautiful and they've got a nice education there too. You can't be dumb and go to UNC.

"Coach Powell, Thigpen and Bunting all stuck out to me, coach Powell has already taught me stuff I didn't know about the game. I like the way he coaches because I understand him. Coach Thigpen is one of the nicest people I know and coach Bunting came to my high school during my sophomore year and asked my coach then if I wanted to be a Tar Heel and I told him I did."

The future Criminal Justice or Business Management major is glad to have a decision behind him.

"I felt like I knew where I wanted to be and I'm relieved that it's over, now is where it all starts for me."

The No. 24 player in Maryland is hoping to make it to every Tar Heel home game this season.

"I'll probably go to all the home games, but I'm really looking to go to the Maryland one," he said. "I'm going to keep an eye out for how the offense is run and how the team bonds together this year. I'm going to look for their strengths and weaknesses and I'm just really excited about watching college football."

Reed added one final note to fans.

"Tell them I am on the way and I'm just looking forward to going there."

The Maryland prospect ran for 1,336 yards and 18 touchdowns last season as he was named first team all-conference and all-Southern Maryland. He added 19 tackles, three sacks, two interceptions and five deflected passes on defense.