Virginia OLs stock on the rise
A rising offensive line prospect in Virginia is West Springfield's
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Marshall Ausberry.
Blessed with a 6-foot-6, 330-pound frame and an
impressive 5.25 best in the 40-yard dash, Ausberry has garnered offers from
Virginia, Virginia Tech and Marshall thus far, as well as heavy interest from
Maryland and Penn State. Those schools make up his current top five.
Although he says he's keeping his recruitment open, it
sounds like a two-team race between the Cavs and Hokies. He'll be attending UVA's camp next Thursday.
"Virginia is a program that is trying to rebuild and
start a new tradition," he said. "They've shown a whole lot of interest in me
being a part of that. I think it would be neat to be part of building something
there.
"Virginia Tech, on the other hand, is an established
program now that goes to bowls every year and is competing for a national
championship. Every player would want to be part of a successful team like
that."
Ausberry camped at Penn State last summer and came away
impressed with the coaching staff and facilities. "Just great football
tradition," he said. "It was really cool."
Maryland has his attention after claiming the ACC
championship last year and making a BCS run. "That seems like a program on the
rise," he said. "It's also real close to home."
What will his final decision be based upon?
"The main thing I'm looking for is a nice campus, kind
of clean and quiet, where you can concentrate on both football and your
academics," he said. "I'm interested in getting an education degree. Basically,
I'm just looking for the place where I feel most comfortable and fit in the
best."
Despite his massive frame, Ausberry (275 bench, 475 squat) moves extremely
well, a trait that has many top programs taking notice. He says he keeps his
agility by playing basketball when football season is over.
"It really helps my lateral movement," he said. "I have
really good technique and footwork."