Spence enjoys visit to Syracuse

Akeem Spence is a three-star defensive tackle prospect from Fort Walton Beach (Fla.) High School. Spence, 6-1 and 285 pounds, took his second official visit this past weekend. He traveled up north to see Syracuse.

"Syracuse was fun," Spence said. "I met the players and met the coaches. I really like Coach (Doug) met coach Marrone. He is real cool and down to earth. We ate dinner together and he told me about their plan and how played for Dolphins. Syracuse is definitely in my top three. They are coming here on Thursday.

Spence has already visited Iowa State (October) and will make his last official visit this weekend. That trip is to Illinois (1-23).

"Iowa State is going thru a rough stage right now with new coaches. I met their defensive line coach and the new defensive coordinator is coming over today to my house.

"I am going up to Illinois this weekend. I like their tradition and I like coach (Ron) Zook. I will find out more about them this weekend."

So what is the timetable for Spence's decision?

"I hope to do something next week after I get back from Illinois. Right now it's Syracuse, Illinois or Iowa State. My decision will be based on the coaching staff, my position coach and playing time. It looks like I can play early at all three schools."

Fort Walton Beach finished the season 10-2. For the year Spence had 80 tackles and five sacks. He also played well in the Florida North-South All-State.

"I think I stop the run pretty well. Most of all I think I have good leadership qualities. I take pride in that and lead by example. I just want to win."