Shanks says many in the hunt
Junior defensive tackle Justin Shanks of Prattville, (Ala.) was more than a little excited when he found out recently he had been selected to play in next year's U.S. Army All-American Bowl.
"I've always wanted to play in it," Shanks said. "I've wanted to go since I went to the [Army combine in San Antonio] after my freshman year. I really enjoyed it. I really like San Antonio a lot. I've watched the game and I could see myself playing there. That dream is finally coming true."
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Playing in the game might not be all that Shanks does at the Army All-American Bowl. He told Rivals.com he just might make what will be a much-anticipated commitment announcement during the game.
"I want to do it there," Shanks said. "I'm thinking about doing it there. If not there, then I'll do it on signing day."
According to Shanks, everyone that has offered is still in the hunt. And that's a lot of teams.
All told, the 6-foot-3, 306-pounder has 20-plus offers. The most recent came from Southern California three weeks ago.
"That one meant a lot to me," Shanks said. "It's special coming from a high-profile team and all. I talked to [Trojans assistant] Ed Orgeron. He's been recruiting me hard. He's supposed to be here Monday for our first spring practice."
Thus far, Shanks has visited Alabama, Auburn and Tennessee. Last week alone, Auburn, Florida State, Ole Miss, Tennessee and Vanderbilt stopped by his school.
"This summer, I want to check out LSU, Florida State and Ole Miss," Shanks said. "I'll probably use USC as an official."
Shanks said Miami and Oregon also are being considered for official visits.
"It's going pretty good so far," Shanks said of his recruitment. "I want to have a top 10 after the summer. I'm getting there. Right now everyone is equal. I don't see anyone being over anybody else."
Despite having so many offers, Shanks said he is excited about proving himself during spring practice.
"Everybody is coming by," Shanks said. "I just want to show them all they didn't make a mistake offering me. I want to back up my offers and show what I can do."