Two in regular contact with Byars

Boca Raton (Fla.) running back Keith Byars II took a few trips during the summer months.

"I got a chance to look at some schools, no official visits or anything like that, but I got a chance to see a couple of campuses," Byars said. "I saw Ohio State, Illinois, Louisville, and Tennessee State."

The 5-foot-10, 205-pound back claims offers from Bowling Green, Florida International, Illinois, Louisville, Maryland, Memphis, Ohio, Rutgers, Vanderbilt, and Western Michigan. He says two of those schools stay in contact with him the most.

"I've kept up with Maryland and FIU a lot this summer," Byars said. "I am really interested in them because they have made me a priority. I am not just another guy. They have taken the time out to have conversations and show me how much they want me."

Official visits will wait for Byars, as his primary focus is on his senior season.

"I haven't planned any officials yet," Byars said. "I am not sure who I want to see at all. I haven't really put much thought into it really. I am really just worried about enjoying my last year with our football team and being the best we have been in years. So I haven't really thought about colleges yet."

Byars, who claims no leader at this time, said a decision isn't likely to come until at least the end of his senior season. He intends to use all five official visits before making a decision. He is hoping that his season will extend into December, and feels confident Boca Raton is primed for a strong season.

"Preseason is going great," Byars said. "We have gotten closer. We've had a lot of team bonding. We are after a district and state championship this year."

As a junior, Byars rushed for just shy of 500 yards while scoring seven touchdowns on the ground.