Rivals100 DT starts taking unofficials

Rivals100 defensive tackle Adam Patterson out of Columbia (S.C.) Richland Northeast took an unofficial visit to Knoxville last weekend to witness the Volunteers win over Ole Miss. The 6-foot-2, 256-pounder with 4.64-second speed enjoyed his trip and discussed with Rivals what stood out.

"The visit to Tennessee went really good and they have a very good crowd," he said. "It was nice seeing that they were retiring Reggie White's jersey number. I admire Reggie and he was in a position I hopefully will be able to play also. Beyond that, it was just really nice to be up there and I've thought about going back up sometime.

"The game itself was pretty good. They had a lot of people there and you can tell the fans really care about the team and show their support. I got a chance to talk to the defensive coordinator, conditioning coach and my recruiting coach. They all told me about the roster and about how life is at Tennessee if I went there."

Currently, Patterson has Tennessee amongst his leaders.

"I would put Tennessee in my top three with South Carolina and North Carolina State," he said. "I haven't started scheduling visits, but I know I'm going to take two to see check out the Gamecocks and Wolfpack. All of my official visits will be after the season in December and January."

The four-star prospect plans to take another unofficial this week to Penn State.

"I'm hoping to see a very excited crowd and a good game," he said. "I also want to go and see what the coaches are like on gameday and see how the players react. I'm looking for a big event up there. I hope they show me where I fit into their school and if I get along with the players and coaches."

In a few more weeks, Patterson plans to take another unofficial to Auburn.

The No. 4 defensive tackle in the country has helped Richland Northeast to a 6-0 start.

"This is the best start in school history and we're doing some amazing things here," he said. "Now we're in regional play and we have the toughest region in the state as everyone is undefeated or has one loss. Our team has a lot of experience and a good vibe to it. Everyone knows how to play with each other.

Adam Patterson VideoClick "I've been pretty happy with my performance so far. I feel I continuously get better in practice every day. I've seen that I'm much more aggressive, quicker, stronger and wiser on the field this year. I still haven't played to my potential, but I feel one day I will reach that level if I continue to practice and train hard."Here to view this Link.