Roberts takes Penn State official

Gaston (N.C.) Northampton West offensive center Desmond Roberts took his second official visit of the year to State College last weekend. The 6-foot-5, 265-pounder enjoyed his time at Penn State, but was it enough to change his commitment from NC State?

"The visit went really well," he said. "I got a chance to meet all the coaches, check out the academic center and hang out with the players.

"I was hosted by Gerald Cadogan. He was a nice guy, very down to earth. He took me on a tour around campus and showed me all the history. I had no idea how big the school and campus was there."

Roberts also got a chance to talk to the staff, most notably Joe Paterno.

"I talked to all the coaches, trainers and staff," he said. "I met the line coach and he was really cool and then I talked to coach Paterno. It was really good to meet with him. He talked about my grades and how important they are, he said that's the No. 1 focus. He did talk about football too and said if I came in ready to play I'd be the backup which is a good thing for me."

Overall the three-star lineman rated his trip to Penn State a nine.

"I liked it a lot. It's a real nice place and it was a good chance for me to meet the staff," he said. "I'd say Penn State is right behind North Carolina State."

Next up for Roberts is a trip to Blacksburg this weekend.

"I'm still scheduled to visit there right now," he said. "I'm going on this visit like all the others hopefully just looking for a feeling. I want something that would tip me in that direction."