Moore nearing a decision

Three-star linebacker AJ Moore has held two offers for months. According to his coach, the 6-foot-2, 217-pounder is closing in on a decision.

"I think he has a favorite, but I'll let him tell everybody what that is," Highland Springs, Va. head coach Loren Johnson said. "I'm pretty sure he does have a favorite though. He wants to be committed to somebody soon."

Coach Johnson explained how he usually handles the process with his players.

"We try to suggest it by the third week of the season, but if someone else comes in I think he'll definitely look into it," he said.

Right now though, Moore has offers from Miami and West Virginia. Those two programs are at the top of the list.

"Miami and West Virginia are his two leaders," he said. "West Virginia plays a fast-paced tempo and it's close to Virginia. That's his thoughts about that school."

Coach Johnson also discussed Moore's draw to Miami.

"Miami is Miami, it's in Florida and he likes the type of defense they are going to start playing the next few years," said Moore. "He seems excited about both of those schools, one in the ACC and the other in the Big 12. He likes the direction they are going and the chance to play for a BCS program."

Part of the reason more schools have not moved in yet at least is academics, but Moore has worked hard in the offseason to correct that.

"He took summer school classes to get himself ahead of the game and recover his GPA a bit," said Coach Johnson. "He's ready now after getting an A and that has allowed him to take some other classes during the regular school year to stay ahead of the game. Now, we're trying to get that out there that he has gotten himself squared away."

On the field, the Richmond prospect is stepping up.

"He's doing extremely well," he said. "I don't have the stats in front of me, but his understanding of the game is a lot better than last year. He's a year older and more mature. He hit a big growth spurt and is a better football player."