Pooler closing in on a decision

Morristown (N.J.) Lawrenceville Prep linebacker Ben Pooler is focusing in on one school. The 6-foot-1, 238-pounder thinks he could commit there sometime before the first game of the season.

"I really like Maryland a lot right now," he said. "It works out well that the only school that has offered me is the one I like the most. Now I just have to make sure it's the right fit for me for football, school, atmosphere and all that.

"I do like them a lot though first and foremost because they are very successful with linebackers. On top of that, everything else about the school seems fine and I like the coaches a lot."

With an offer in-hand from his favorite, when will Pooler decide?

"I definitely want to get it done before our first game of the season," he said. "I don't want to worry about colleges anymore. If I do commit, I think I'll still take other visits because I just don't have the time to look at schools right now. Some other schools showing interest include South Florida, Virginia, Rutgers, Cincinnati and Syracuse."

At this time, the three-star prospect is looking forward to the season.

"I can see a big improvement in myself this year," he said. "I've lost some weight and am down to about 220-pounds. I'm also a lot faster and didn't lose any strength; in fact I think I'm stronger which should make me a more effective player."

Pooler accounted for over 500 yards of offense and added 47 tackles, four sacks and one interception on defense.