Peterson on the junior day tour

Rivals250 lineman Lovell Peterson of Huber Heights (Ohio) Wayne saw his recruiting process start very early. It has cooled down the last few months for the 6-3, 280-pound prospect, but he is beginning to restart it by scheduling several junior day visits.

"I went to the Ohio State junior day [Jan. 29]," Peterson said. "This was my first time actually meeting the newer staff. They were mainly just talking about the new coaching staff and what they are trying to bring to Ohio State. It seems like it is going to be a nice program and he's going to rebuild off the season they had last year. I'm excited to see what they do this year."

Peterson would like to follow up the Ohio State junior day visit with several more to schools within driving distance from his home, and has one trip already scheduled.

"On [Feb.] 25th, I believe me and [teammates] are going to the Kentucky game," Peterson said. "I know I am probably going to head up north to Michigan or Michigan State. I am probably going to try to take a trip out to West Virginia and Illinois. Toledo was looking at me too and they want me to come up there soon."

An early offer from Illinois kicked off Peterson's recruitment, but that tender came through when Ron Zook headed up the program. Communication with the new coaching staff in Champaign has been minimal.

"They hit me up on Facebook, but I haven't really been in contact with them recently," Peterson said.

"My coach said West Virginia verballed me, but I don't know how official that is."

When he is not visiting schools, Peterson can be found in the weight room trying to add strength and bulk. He battled a sickness toward the end of his junior season that had dropped his weight all the way down to 235 and is still working to get back to his normal playing weight.

Peterson played primarily on the offensive line for Huber Heights Wayne last season, but has the size and tools to also project to defensive tackle in college.

"Here and there I'll see coaches wondering why I'm not playing defense," Peterson said. "When I get to college they'll put me where they want me even though I prefer to play defense."