Small schools appeal to Allen

PANAMA CITY, Fla. - Running back Andre Allen opened his senior season by rushing for 157 yards and a touchdown on 18 carries in a Thursday night loss for Panama City (Fla.) Arnold. His highlight on the evening was a magical 70-yard run where he reversed field and sliced in-between defenders to break off a huge gain. He said his strong night is a credit to his effort during the offseason.

"I have put in a lot of effort and I hope it shows," Allen said. "I always give 100% effort, always, that is how I have been trained to be."

Allen, who attempted to verbally commit to Ole Miss early in the process, has refocused when it comes to his recruitment and hopes his senior season results in more opportunities.

"Recruiting is going good," Allen said. "I believe I am about to pick up more offers."

As of now, the 5-foot-9, 180-pound back has his eye set on a different path when it comes to finding his future home.

"Right now I would say I am leaning towards a smaller school," Allen said. "Someone like Troy, FAU, FIU, and BCU - teams like that."

Allen, who has yet to schedule any official visits, is hoping to check out the likes of Florida Atlantic, Florida International, and Bethune-Cookman during the football season.

"I have already seen Troy, but I want to see all of the smaller schools because I think that is a better fit for me," Allen said. "I think I could play in the ACC or SEC, but I think I have a better chance to play at a small school and do more in an opportunity like that.

"I love the big schools," Allen added. "But I looked at and the smaller schools are better for me. I was talking with the Troy coach and he was talking to me about the running backs they will lose and how they could use me. I watched them and I think I can fit in well there."

At this stage of the process, the Panhandle prospect says that it is fair to call Troy his leader.

"Yeah," Allen said. "Pretty much."

Allen said he heard from Middle Tennessee and Ole Miss on Thursday, the first day college coaches could contact prospects.