Rivals250 DL makes decision
Rivals250 defensive tackle Leslie Stirrups has made his decision about where he will play college football.
The 6-foot-2, 274-pounder from Tampa (Fla.) Hillsborough decided to stay close to home, committing to Big East contender South Florida.
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"They are a very young team this year," he said. "By the time I get there and all of that talent is there, we have a chance to be good."
Stirrups, the nation's No. 8 defensive tackle prospect, was impressed by the Bulls' 45-14 victory against a ranked Louisville squad earlier this season and made his commitment just prior to South Florida's 31-16 victory against Cincinnati last Saturday at Raymond James Stadium.
Academics played a major role in Stirrups decision as he has yet to qualify academically. He took the SAT two weeks ago.
"I like the program that they have there," he said. "The coach told me they can get me into school."
USF defensive line coach Earl Lane was the four-star prospect's main recruiter. The commitment is Lane's first for the class of 2006.
Stirrups also considered Miami (Fla.), Florida State, Florida, Tennessee and Ole Miss. He had 57 tackles (five for loss) and four sacks this season as he led his team to the first round of the state playoffs.