Saunders cancels PSU official, adds offer

Three-star defensive end Weslye Saunders out of Durham (N.C.) Riverside was planning to make a trip up to Happy Valley this past weekend. The 6-foot-5, 270-pounder didn't make the trek and instead picked up a major offer from the ACC.

"I cancelled my trip to Penn State," he said. "I couldn't get in touch with the coaches there since they hadn't talked to me in a week and a half. I don't know what's going on with them.

"I'm still trying to narrow down my list, but since Penn State isn't communicating with me. They are quickly falling to the outside."

Certainly the news from Penn State was disappointment, but a new offer livened things up for Saunders.

"I did receive an offer on Friday from Florida State," he said. "That really has changed my whole outlook on things and now I'm back to square one. I think the offer from them puts them up there for me because I've always been a Florida State fan, but I'm not diehard. I especially like their defense, tradition and fans. Coach Bowden is a great coach and I like the atmosphere and winning program there."

The No. 12 player in North Carolina is working on a visit to Tallahassee.

"I'm trying to get one set up with them," he said. "I haven't talked to the coaches yet, but once I get in touch then I'll have something scheduled."

At this time, Saunders has already taken an official to Louisville. Where else does he want to visit before deciding?

"I am planning to take all five of my officials still," he said. "I think I want to try to make it up to Wake Forest and then maybe to Clemson too. Clemson is a very a good team and Wake Forest and coach Grobe are surprising a lot of people. I like both of their defenses and they look like great programs."

This season the No. 24 strongside defensive end in the country has been a force both ways for Riverside.

"The team is struggling as we are 3-5 and lost three in a row," he said. "I thought we were a second half team, but we're just inconsistent.

"I think individually I'm doing pretty well. I have 35 catches for 415 yards and nine total touchdowns at tight end. I also have 7.5 sacks and two interceptions. I'm pretty happy with my play, but I always feel I could do more since my team is losing."