Roche enjoys surprise trip to MSU

Ramsey (N.J.) Don Bosco Prep offensive tackle Brian Roche committed to Rutgers this summer, but has had second thoughts after another rough season for the Scarlet Knights. He took a surprise visit to Michigan State this weekend.

"It was a last second thing, I actually finalized it Friday and got back on Monday," said the 6-foot-4, 275-pounder. "I had a good time out there. I was hosted by Pete Clifford and was out there with a few other New Jersey guys. Coach Smith is very cool and they don't pressure you, they are very laid back. It's almost like they say 'you should come here' but that's about it."

Roche is in the process of setting up additional visits.

"I'm going to Louisville this upcoming weekend and I have NC State set for Jan. 14," he said. "Virginia Tech, Notre Dame, North Carolina and a few others are schools I'll look at."

And what about Rutgers?

"I talked to coach Schiano and told him I was de-committing," he said. "I will still look at Rutgers after I take all my official visits, but I think I committed too soon. I want to compare schools now."

Roche is ranked as the No. 19 offensive tackle in the country. He doesn't have a leader.

"It's wide open again," he said. "I want to take my time."