Shepard looking ahead
HOUSTON - One of the state's top sophomores is getting a head start on the recruiting process.
Houston (Texas) Cy-Ridge dual-threat quarterback Russell Shepard took in the Rivals.com Junior Day at Rice University this past weekend. Coming in around 6-foot-1 and near the 183-pound mark, Shepard talked about his first verbal offer and the numerous schools that are showing interest.
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"I went to the Texas A&M junior day with my cousin, Craig Loston, and we both got an offer there," Shepard said. "Boise State, Florida, Texas, Texas A&M, Ohio State, and others are all sending me mail right now."
Shepard says that while his cousin, Loston, made an early commitment to Texas A&M, he's going to wait a while to make his own.
"We both fell in love with A&M when we went there for the junior day," Shepard said. "But, I just want to wait a little longer than him. Craig made a verbal and you know, he really loves the school.
"But, I talked to him on the phone about it. I told him I want to wait."
Shepard, who took over the starting job duties at Cy Ridge at 15 years old, says that he's learned valuable experience at the signal caller position. He prides himself on maintaining his composure and not getting flustered.
He says that one former Texas high school quarterback is a role model.
"One of my role models, Vince Young, I just see how he never gets flustered," Shepard said. "Being a young guy, I had to show my teammates that it's not about talking. You have to let your skills talk for you."
As a junior, Shepard certainly did his talking on the field. He rushed for 1,459 yards and 22 touchdowns from the quarterback spot.
In terms of recruiting, he's got a few favorites that include Florida, Texas A&M, Texas, and Ohio State.
"All of those schools use the type of quarterback that I am," Shepard said. "I know a Cal or a USC are looking for the pro-style type of quarterback. I just want to pick the right school that plays to my potential."