Vols, Pack lead for Ash

One of the top players in the Garden State that hasn't committed yet is seeing recruiting pick up like never before. He has two leaders, but one of college football's most storied programs could sway him in the near future.

Offensive guard/defensive end Ell Ash is leaning towards Tennessee and NC State, but that doesn't mean he's eliminated all other schools.

"Yes, I'd have to say those two are my favorites right now, for the time being," said Ash. "I've visited each school the last two weeks and have been really impressed. I can't really say anything negative about either place because I've just been blown away with what I've seen. But I'm not saying it's only those two that I'm looking at. I've got a big visit coming up in a couple of weeks."

'Big visit' could be an understatement. The 6-foot-5, 258-pound lineman plans on taking an official visit to South Bend to check out Notre Dame on Jan. 30.

"I'm definitely looking forward to that one," he laughed. "When you think about Notre Dame you think about the golden helmets and all the tradition. I can't wait to get over there and see it up-close. They have a chance to get up there with NC State and Tennessee, but they aren't there yet."

Ash has also visited Pittsburgh and Clemson, and his trip to Notre Dame will be his final visit.

"I've had coaches coming by and just letting me know they're real interested in me. They all want me as a defensive lineman and are telling me that with my potential I could compete for playing time real early."

Ash is a 3-star prospect and is rated the No. 21 player in the state of New Jersey.