Top QB Paulus announces commitment

Early quarterback commitments have been a common occurrence in the 2007 class with stars including Jimmy Clausen committing to Notre Dame and Ryan Mallett committing to Michigan. North Carolina has added their own top quarterback of the future when they added Syracuse (N.Y.) Christian Brothers star Mike Paulus today.

"I have committed to the University of North Carolina," the 6-foot-5, 220-pounder said. "I couldn't be more excited about the program and the opportunity to help turn it around. When I went there on an unofficial visit, I fell in love with it and felt like USC and UNC were both home to me. I loved both, and when it came down to it, my heart told me it was North Carolina."

What made Paulus pick the Tar Heels over the Trojans?

"I really liked USC and the idea of backing up Mark Sanchez, so that I could develop, but in the end it came down to being extremely comfortable with the coaches and area at UNC," he said. "I trust that the new offensive coordinator Frank Cignetti will develop me to be the best quarterback I can be and I like that I have a good chance of playing early. I also think they have a beautiful university and the program has a tremendous upside to become a great team at the national level."

The quarterback commitment looks forward to helping North Carolina over the next few years.

"I can promise that North Carolina will be the talk of the country in a few years and this will be the best class they have signed in a long time," he stated. "I consider myself just a small commitment once this class is all wrapped up. I already am doing my best to help recruit a top running back and wide receiver to come along with me."

Paulus verbally committed to North Carolina over offers from Alabama, Miami, Michigan, Southern Cal, Tennessee and a host of others.