Three lead for Rivals250 LB

Three schools are leading for Absecon (N.J.) Holy Spirit linebacker Marcus Witherspoon. What stands out about the three programs to the 6-foot-2, 215-pounder?

"I like all the schools showing me interest, but Michigan Notre Dame and Georgia are standing out and will probably be in my final list," he said. "The thing about Notre Dame is they are nothing but tradition. They are a good school, have good coaches and all that. Michigan and Georgia are good schools and programs too. I do like that Georgia in particular is building something there. They've got good chemistry together."

At this time, Witherspoon believes he's got approximately six scholarships on the table.

"I know I have verbals from Michigan, Boston College, Connecticut, Rutgers, Georgia and Clemson," he said. "Notre Dame is still talking about possibly offering and there are a few others in touch."

In the near future, the Garden State linebacker plans to head to Pittsburgh and possibly Penn State. Is there anything he's hoping to see?

"I just want to go to the schools and see if it's a good place," he said. "I want to find out how the facilities are and what they have to offer. I also want to meet the coaches and make sure they are right with me."

This summer Witherspoon plans to participate in camps at Penn State, Notre Dame and Michigan.

Last season he registered 90 tackles, 18 sacks and five interceptions on his way to first team all-conference honors.