Syracuse lands local OG

Syracuse picked up a local pledge earlier today from nearby Syracuse (N.Y.) Christian Brothers. The offensive guard and long snapper picked up the offer from the Orangemen and committed immediately.

"I went up to talk to Coach Marrone and they offered. That was my first offer," Christian Brothers center Macky MacPherson said. "I committed and I don't think the coaches were too surprised. I've always loved Syracuse so much and it's been a dream of mine to play there since I've been walking. My grandfather, Dick MacPherson coached there in the 1980's."

MacPherson went further about his choice.

"I love all the facilities and the dome and coaching staff. It's a great coaching staff and I like how everything is run," he said. "It's a beautiful campus and location was a big factor. I wanted to stay in the Northeast.

"Last season: I did pretty well, first team, I have a highlight tape made and all that.

Attributes: I'd say I can run pretty well, I can pull, good technique, and good feet.

Work on: working on my strength a lot, I think I caught up to average."

Marrone was a factor as well.

"He's done a great job improving the team," he said. "I've been watching spring practices for about two weeks now and I've seen an improvement every day. Discipline is the big thing and hopefully that shows on the field when the season comes."

As for playing time, MacPherson will get a shot for immediate time when he enrolls next year.

"I actually talked to Coach Marrone about that. He said I'll be able to potentially make an immediate impact as a long snapper. As an offensive lineman, I'll be in the hunt to compete for the position. He said he likes my technique."