Pattersons schedule shaking out

Darreyl Patterson's first visit is a few weeks in the rear view. The Lawton (Okla.) High School cornerback toured Iowa State during the Cyclones' Aug. 30 game with North Dakota State. He left Ames spouting post-visit platitudes and without making a verbal commitment.

Paul Rhoads' program is still in the mix to land the three-star prospects commitment, sure, but Patterson's recruitment is moving forward and other trips are being scheduled.

"I'm going to Washington State on Sept. 20," Patterson said. "That one is set. I don't really know a lot about Washington State because it's so far away, but I'm going up there to learn. I'm going to find out more about it and the facilities."

The Cougars and Cyclones join Kansas State and Arizona State as the frontrunners to land Patterson. And while no visit to Kansas State has been discussed as of yet, ASU is moving forward with bringing Patterson in on a visit. That date is all but finalized.

"I'm going to Arizona State the second week in December," Patterson said. "After that, I'm not sure. I might take another one. I don't really know."

When Patterson talks about the one visit he's already made, his words are not unique. They aren't overwhelming either. Patterson's assessment of Iowa State reads like a condensed version of every visit recap in history.

"The people, the players and the coaches were great," Patterson said. "Everything was wonderful."

Because of a desire to take a handful of official visits before settling on a school, Patterson plans to wait until after his senior season to announce his commitment. His decision is one that will be based in personal relationships, as the defensive philosophies and depth charts of the programs involved in the chase will have minimal influence on his choice.

"It's about the coaches and stuff like that," Patterson said. "I'll play any style. There isn't just one that fits me, so it's about the coaches and if I like them."