Shields likes everything about Vandy

Two-star tight end Jack Shields out of Dorchester (Mass.) Boston College took an official visit this weekend to Nashville. After his trip, the 6-foot-5, 240-pounder cut his list of favorites to two schools.

"I'd say I'm down to Vanderbilt and Virginia," he said. "I picked up an offer from Virginia last week and am headed there next weekend and then I'll make my decision."

What did Shields think of his trip to Vanderbilt?

"I liked the visit a lot and was really impressed," he said. "I loved the way the people were and the southern hospitality and all that.

"I got there Friday and met the coaches and hung out with the players including my host Brian Stamper. He was a good host that was an all-SEC guy that I could relate to. He told me what's going on with the team and how they keep improving as the coaches are only in their fourth year. He also reminded me that their academics are top 20 in the nation.

"On Saturday, I checked out the school and then met with coach Johnson. He was a really nice guy and I talked with him for a while. He basically told me how I could help the team."

Going into the visit, the No. 19 player in New England was being looked at as an offensive lineman, but that has changed.

"Once the coaches got to check out my size, they said I can come and pick to play either tight end or offensive line," he said. "I like the chance to choose because whatever works will get me on the field."

Overall Shields rated his trip a high eight or a nine.

"I knew nothing about them going in and everything they presented impressed me. I liked the school, teachers, counselors and facilities," he said. "Right now I'd say Virginia and Vanderbilt are pretty even."

What is Shields looking for out of his visit to Charlottesville next weekend?

"I'm just going in with an open mind so that I can see how everything is presented," he said. "I like Virginia because they are a great school that has a good program and the campus is real nice."

The tight end prospect expects to have a decision made soon after his trip to Virginia next weekend.