Wood to go through the process

Oxnard (Calif.) Santa Clara running back Cierre Wood is a national recruit and will be among the top rated players at his position in the country next fall. Wood seems to rack up a new offer by the week but has no plans to make an early commitment.

Wood, 6-0, 180 pounds is coming off a big junior season that saw him earn several post-season honors including 1st team all-state underclass. Wood rushed for 2,612 yards and 34 touchdowns (42 total) and is currently the top rated back in the West region.

Wood is one of the most natural running backs we've seen in awhile. He has great instincts, balance and vision and seems to have that rare ability to almost feel where the hole is before it's even there. He has explosive speed, can stop and start on a dime and is a true home run threat that can score from anywhere on the field.

The athlete is now up to 12 scholarship offers including programs like USC, Notre Dame, Florida, Nebraska, Oregon, Washington, North Carolina and several others.

"I plan to go through the process and I want to take all five of my trips," Wood said. "If I committed early, I might worry that I rushed in to the decision and I don't want to look back with any regrets. I want to take my time and really think everything out.

"As for right now, I know I want to visit Notre Dame and Florida. I like USC a lot too and will probably visit there as well. I don't have a favorite team right now though and I'm open to everyone.

"Growing up, I followed players more than teams. I liked watching guys like Reggie Bush, Darren McFadden and Adrian Peterson. Really, there was a lot of backs I enjoy watching. So far, I'm enjoying the process and look forward to just playing everything out."