PA back looking for first offer

Running back Donte Harden out of Erie (Pa.) Strong Vincent had a phenomenal year last season rushing for over 1,500 yards of offense and 18 touchdowns while averaging 8.6-yards per carry. Surprisingly the big season hasn't resulted in a lot of interest from colleges for the 6-foot-0, 185-pounder yet.

"Right now Donte is getting a lot of mail from the MAC including Kent State, Buffalo, Temple and others," Strong Vincent coach Chris Spooner said. "Other schools including Pittsburgh, West Virginia, Connecticut and Ohio State are also taking a look, but they really want to see him in person at camp first. He just has to pass the eyeball test."

Does the Pennsylvania running back have any favorites at this time?

"I don't think he has any now," he stated. "I think that whoever gives him the first offer probably will be his favorite though since he is a pretty loyal guy."

What makes Harden stand out as a prospect?

"I truly believe he can be a Division I tailback, but I know a lot of schools are interested at making the switch to put him on defense right away," he said. "Donte is a football specimen that is fast and hits the holes hard. He is a great runner that can run through a brick wall. When the game is on the line, he is the type of kid you want the ball to be in his hands and even if he's banged up he'll do what you ask.

"Defensively he's a solid strong safety that can hit. He finished last season with one interception and 82 tackles. He is also a good character kid that is smart with a 3.0 GPA."

Harden his junior season by earning second team all-state, first team all-district and first team all-region honors.

This summer he is looking at heading to camps at Ohio State and Pittsburgh.