Sparks has three on top
For the second year in a row, Merced (Calif.) knocked out L.A. city power Crenshaw, Los Angeles and star receiver Jarrett Sparks was a big reason why. Sparks has three schools at the top of his list and is planning some recruiting visits in the near future.
Sparks, 6-2, 215 pounds is a big, physical receiver and easily among the top football players in the state. He had 42 receptions for 862 yards and eight touchdowns as a junior and is off to a strong start this year as well.
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Sparks caught four passes including a 58 yard touchdown and returned the second half kickoff 79 yards for another score.
"They're a good team and it has been fun playing them the last two years," Sparks said. "I think we'll keep the series going because I think both teams like the competition and it's cool playing a team outside of the area."
On the recruiting front, Sparks has offers from a host of schools and said three sit at the top of his list.
"I like Arizona, Oregon State and Cal," Sparks said. "I haven't set up any trip dates yet but I'm hoping to do so in the next few weeks. I would like to take all my visits during the season so I can see what the school is like on a game weekend.
"Then I'll probably be ready to make my decision by the end of the year. There are a few other schools I'm looking at but those are really the main three I like the most.
"With Arizona, they run the spread offense and I think I could play early. They use a lot of five WR sets so the chance to play right away is pretty good. I think I could play early at Oregon State too and I like those coaches a lot.
"Cal has a nice offense and they put a lot of points on the board. I like how they play fast and I was very impressed with their win over Tennessee last weekend.
"I don't have a leader among the three. The things I'm looking for are the opportunity to play early, the style of offense and the education I can get."