Oregon, Louisville lead for South Florida-based linebacker

MIAMI -- A one-time Auburn commit, Robert Hicks has long been back on the recruiting market. The massive linebacker’s options are very much open. Still, that doesn’t mean some of said options aren’t more appealing than others.

The Miami Central High School star has a pair of favorites in mind. And while other schools could join the group going forward, his top two is simple.

“It’s Louisville and Oregon,” Hicks said. “It’s pretty much them right now.”

There’s a still-forming list of offseason visits that could change things, however. Much of Hicks’ recruitment could hinge on which schools decide to push for his services down the stretch.

It’s why, despite his top two, Hicks will explore. His horizons are broadening.

“I’m headed to Louisville, Georgia, Florida and Western Kentucky over the spring,” Hicks said. “I’m going to look at a lot of schools.”

A high three-star prospect, Hicks is ranked as the No. 17 inside linebacker in the class of 2018.

IN HIS WORDS: “Oregon being so far is the only problem. I’m going to visit, though. And if that’s the best fit, I’m gonna go.”

RIVALS REACTION: If Hicks’ recruitment comes down to Louisville versus Oregon, the Cardinals will likely hold the edge. Hicks has been high on Bobby Petrino’s program for some time and those relationships are in place. Add in the fact that, because of the distance, going to Oregon often sounds better in theory than in practice to South Florida-based athletes and Louisville has to like its chances. The Wildcard here would be an offer from one of the in-state programs or an SEC program pushing hard down the stretch.