Prediction time: Where are top Rivals Camp Series prospects headed?
CELEBRATION, Fla – The 2018 Rivals Camp Series presented by adidas made its stop in the Orlando area over the weekend, and a massive group of top prospects with long lists of scholarship offers turned out for the event. The camp was as much a media frenzy as it was a football setting, however, as chatter was everywhere before and during the competition. Below, Rivals.com takes a stab at predicating the college destinations of five campers based on intel gathered during the weekend that was in Central Florida.
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Zipperer’s recruitment could go a number of ways, but Clemson and Florida seem to be the most likely landing spots for the versatile tight end. Oklahoma is also involved, but needs to get him on campus to be considered a real player. If that happens, all bets are off because Zipperer is aware of how well he fits the Sooners’ system. For now, however, the two regional powers seem to be smarter plays. Clemson’s stability is attractive, as Zipperer and other recruits are likely waiting to see what the start of the Dan Mullen Era holds before forming a solid opinion on the Gators.
The pick: Clemson
Originally from the Midwest but playing his high school football in Florida, Coleman may well return to his home region for college. The four-star receiver grew up in the St. Louis area, so Missouri will likely be a player. Still, Coleman also has an interest in Nebraska, which is now armed with a celebrated young head coach. Scott Frost’s ties to Central Florida area won’t be lost on Coleman while he’s attending IMG Academy, and Nebraska’s Midwest location is appealing to his family. This sets up well for the Huskers as things stand.
The pick: Nebraska
Jay arrived at camp fresh off a junior day visit to Florida State that clearly made an impact in his recruitment. He was rocking FSU shoes and didn’t mind detailing how much he enjoyed his time in Tallahassee. Jay holds a number of major offers, including ones from Miami, Alabama and Tennessee but every other school on his list has ground to make up. At least for the moment, the defensive back seems like a near lock to land at FSU.
The pick: Florida State
A Tallahassee-based defensive back, Andrews has plenty of options. It’s why a lot can change between now and his Signing Day, but it seems as though Alabama gained an edge during the defensive back’s November visit to Tuscaloosa. A solid season from Florida State could make things interesting, as holding off the hometown college is never easy. On the flip side of that coin, another mediocre (or worse) season from the Seminoles would make Andrews’ decision a bit easier. For now, Alabama seems like the smart bet, but FSU could change his mind in a hurry if the Willie Taggart Era gets off to a hot start.
The pick: Alabama
Like Jay, Summerall is also coming off a recent visit to Florida State, and the afterglow from said trip is in full effect. Willie Taggart has always found success recruiting the area in which Summerall lives, so the Seminoles have plenty working in their favor. Taggart and FSU will have to fend off some heavy hitters, as Alabama, Auburn and others have offered the long defensive end. Still, that shouldn’t be a problem as long as the on-field product shows growth this season.
The pick: Florida State