ONeal moves visits around

Oakland (Calif.) McClymonds linebacker Kyler O'Neal was set to visit to Colorado in two weeks but the visit, along with one later in the month to Nebraska have both re-scheduled for later in the year.

O'Neal, 5-11, 190 pounds has had a solid season so far this year although according to Warrior coach Alonzo Carter, he could be playing on an even higher level.

"It's been tough for Kyler at times because we just don't have the same defensive line in front of him that we did last year," Carter said. "He has so much pressure on him to go out and basically make every big play for us. He's definitely up to the challenge and thrives on that kind of pressure but I always expect a lot out of kids like Kyler.

"He has made a lot of big plays for us this year but he's also missed some plays I think he should have made. Overall though, I think he's living up to the hype. He's a big, fast and physical player who really needs to step up for this weekend because we're going out to Los Angeles to play Crenshaw. I already told him, 'Kyler, you're going up against Raymond Carter, one of the best backs in the state and it's up to you to contain him.' We'll see how it goes."

As we mentioned in a previous article about Warrior teammate Willie Griffin, recruiting has been put on the backburner for now.

"I felt like a lot of our players were worrying too much about recruiting instead of the football season so I moved all the trips the kids had until later in the year," Carter said. "Kyler is now going to visit Colorado (Dec. 8), he was supposed to visit in a couple of weeks. I also moved the Nebraska trip. We haven't set that date yet but it's going to be in late November. I just moved them this morning but I think it's the best thing for the kids.

"I just think a lot of these kids have been spending a lot of time reading their press clippings and don't look as focused as they should. Now don't get me wrong, none of my guys would ever go out there and not try their hardest, but I almost think they lose a little of their passion and desire for their game when they're constantly reading about how great they are. So I just want them to get back to football and now worry about anything else."