Next in line at Pearland
It's been a tradition at Pearland (Texas) High School that when the running back baton is passed, that athlete holds onto it for two seasons. The last four Oiler running backs under coach Tony Heath have all gone onto Division I schools, and it looks like that tradition will continue in 2009.
Foswhitt Whittaker ended up at the University of Texas after two successful seasons and a state semi-final run last year. Before Whitaker, Brandon Roberson became the eighth all-time leading rusher in Texas Class 5A football, before signing with Northwestern University.
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The Houston Cougars nabbed Pearland's Anthony Evans in 2000 after a tremendous prep career, and Evans become one of the schools top all-time career leaders in rushing yards, attempts and touchdowns.
So who's next?
Junior Kasey Carrier backed up Whitaker last season but still managed to compile 502 yards on 70 rushes and five touchdowns last year. This weekend he opened up with over 196 yards on 26 carries and a touchdown in Pearland's win over Kempner High School.
"It's been pretty quiet this summer, but we've received a ton of hard-written letters this week," father Kevin Carrier said. "Vanderbilt, Oklahoma State, Kansas State and Texas A&M have all sent hand-written letters.
"I think we are going up to Texas A&M this weekend and he met Coach (Mack) Brown last spring. Kasey has dreamed as a little kid to play for Miami, but he's very open."
Carrier has gained 22 pounds over the summer through off season workouts and swimming. He's been clocked at 4.4 in the 40-yard dash and stars on the Pearland track team in numerous events.