Stud lineman emerging in Akron

Akron (OH) Firestone is home to one of Ohio's top sleeper prospects. Tommy Brown measured in at a well put together 6-feet-5 and 332 pounds at Saturday's NIKE Football Combine in Massillon.

The big offensive lineman carries offers from Akron, Ohio, and Ball State. He plans to make a couple of in-state visits later this year.

"I am planning on going back to Bowling Green," Brown said. "I am going to a one day camp there. Their coaches said if I come they are going to offer. I don't want to list that as an offer yet, because they have not made it official in writing. Next would be Ohio State. I am supposed to go to a spring practice."

Brown is hoping that visit will help pick things up with the Buckeyes.

"I am praying I get an offer from Ohio State," Brown said. "I really love Cincinnati too. They are solid and have a nice program."

"I have not been able to get out too much and visit schools. It is really early in the recruiting process for me. I am sure something will catch my eye."

Brown said Oho State, Michigan, and Bowling Green are recruiting him hard.

Though his physical tools are unique, Brown emphasizes the mental side of the game.

"To me the game is more about knowledge versus mechanics," Brown said. "I study film really hard. I watch my opponents, look at their every move and learn how they make their choices. My school doesn't have great video equipment, but as long as I have my VCR and TV, I am good."

"Most of all I am looking for academics," Brown said. "And also a schools with a great tradition. I want a schools with great history and a great reputation. I want a college that when people say its name, they don't tell me I am crazy for going there. "

Akron is the only program Brown has visited among his offers.

"I have been there a bunch of times because they are my hometown. I have been going to their day camps since I was a freshman. I have not been to Ohio yet. One of their coaches took notice of me at Ohio State's summer camp, and liked the way I played on offense and on defense. I just picked up the Ball State offer today."

Brown carries a 3.66 G.P.A. in the classroom.

"I love math. I would like to major in Accounting," Brown said. "Math is one of my strong subjects. I love it."