James Wilder Jr. has committed to play for Florida State.  The 6'2'' 225(lb) running back/linebacker, long thought to be a Gator lock, just committed to the Noles in a press conference at Plant High School.  He recently narrowed his choices to FSU, Florida, and Georgia.  Most thought this was a two team race between the 'Noles and the Gators.  He had offers from literally every BCS school, and the Seminoles won a huge recruiting battle.

The Seminole coaching staff did an especially great job of winning over Wilder's family.  They sold Wilder and his family on him having a future at the running back position.  Wilder said in past interviews that he was most comfortable with FSU's coaches. Coach Eddie Gran and Coach Lawrence Dawsey were particularly close to Wilder's mother.  Coach Jimbo Fisher certainly deserves a ton of credit as well. The staff has certainly shown that it can recruit with the best of them.

As far as rankings go, Wilder checks in at #19 overall (4*, 83 grade) in ESPN's rankings.  Rivals rates him as #3 overall (5*) in the nation.

Click "Continue reading this post" to watch his outrageous highlights and read his scouting reports!

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DT Derrick Mitchell

Derrick Mitchell, a defensive tackle from Jacksonville's First Coast High School has committed to Florida State, Ira Schoeffel confirmed via twitter.  Apologies for not getting this up sooner, but we were unable to reach two of our primary sources.  Mitchell is the eighth commitment for the 'Noles, joining First Coast RB Eric Beverly, Nova DT Nile Lawrence, Navarre OL Sterling Lovelady, Treasure Coast DBs Lamarcus Brutus and Keelin Smith, Deland OL Trey Pettis, and Ridge ATH Karlos Williams.

Vitals:

Recruitment:

Not a shocking commitment by any means.  Mitchell goes to what is considered an FSU feeder school in First Coast.  The 'Noles offered fairly early.  Mitchell visited for the February 20th Junior Day and loved his visit.  First Coast has several other good underclassmen as well, including WR Chris Black. 

TN's Thoughts:

He's a big, strong kid that will most likely be a defensive tackle at FSU.  He's considered a very good athlete for his size.  Mitchell is very raw right now and in the limited film we've seen, plays too high.  FSU will need to coach him up, something DT Coach Odell Haggins has always done well.  Due to his great length, he's still growing into his body and like most defensive linemen, he might not be an immediate contributor.  Mitchell also has a 1993 birthdate, making him one of the youngest kids in FSU's recruiting class.

I'd expect him to get above 300 pounds by his 2nd season at FSU.  He reminds me a bit of a skinnier version of former Tennessee DT John Henderson (Jacksonville Jaguars).  In an odd comparison, his length reminds me of former Marlins 1B (current Cub) Derrick Lee.

From the recent UA combine:

The 6-foot-5, 285-pounder was impressive during one-on-one drills. He showed excellent footwork and used his hands well to shed potential blockers making it tough on offensive linemen throughout the day.

"I think I've got really good speed," he said. "I mean, I weigh 285 pounds, but I don't look it and I don't feel it."

This fall, Mitchell will play end for First Coast, but he potentially projects as big, athletic interior defensive tackle in college. Alabama recently joined a host of schools that have offered early. Others include Florida State (where Mitchell's father played basketball), Clemson, North Carolina, South Carolina and Florida International, among others.

As far as the defensive tackle position goes, FSU might take one more.  

Sort of narrow hipped, but he can easily add 10-15 lbs of good weight in his lower body. Uses his long arms to stalemate blockers and does a pretty good job of shedding. Can get some quick penetration, but must get better at attacking half-a-man and quickly getting into the gap. Needs to learn how to get skinny, slip past blockers and split double teams. When he stays low he can dominate, but when he gets high he exposes his long torso and the blocker can get him. That's common for tall defensive tackles. Once in the backfield his long arms engulf the running back and while he sometimes tackles high, he does stay square and make the play. Bats down a lot of passes with his 6'6" frame and tremendously long arms. Tends to rely a little much on his raw strength and I would like to see him generate more power from his lower body coming out of his stance. Pretty good at finding the ballcarrier. Good GPA and is likely already fully qualified. Dad played hoops for FSU in the late 80s. 6th player from First Coast HS for FSU. Film | Photo | Photo

Derrick Mitchell - First Coast High School - #90 (via dillhyonj)

Nile Lawrence visited for Saturday's junior day and had an excellent time.  He becomes the seventh commitment, joining First Coast RB Eric Beverly, OL Sterling Lovelady, Treasure Coast DBs Lamarcus Brutus and Keelin Smith, Deland OL Trey Pettis, and Ridge ATH Karlos Williams.

Recruitment:

Not really much to discuss.  FSU did an excellent job of discovering (and offering) him before any other school.  Nile has really flown below the radar thus far, but that will probably change considering his commitment and recent combine performance.  There are rumors out there that perennial power St. Thomas Aquinas has tried to get him to play on their squad for a couple of years now. 

Video:

http://prepsreport.com/MediaPlayers/Nova.html?ee_mediahash=05c25d95fbfa07e1aa6d4eaa5d75e660

TomahawkNation's Thoughts:

As you can see in the film, Lawrence plays a lot of linebacker for his school.  He's a wide-bodied athlete with room to grow and possesses excellent quickness given his size.  We like his first step, his footwork, and how he uses his hands as a linebacker.  And of course, he's 299 lbs and ran a 4.90 laser-timed 40-yard dash.  His 3-cone time is insane.

When asked about how he (incredibly) gained 35 lbs in the three months since the season ended, Nile's sister confirmed that their mother is a registered dietician.  She said that the family eats very well and that Nile works out a lot and eats a proper diet.

His school (Nova) is a Research & Development Center School.  A note from a recent graduate:

They test out a lot of different curriculums there. So, there really aren't any requirements other than waiting your turn to get into the school.  But they are well known for their debate team and baseball team. They have a lot AP and college prep courses. As a side note, over 70% of the top 100 of my graduating class attended UF. The rest went out of state.

Nile Lawrence-Stample held only two offers as of last week.  One was from Colorado State.  The other from the Florida State Seminoles.  Part of his low profile was due to Nile playing at a decidedly non-football school.  Nova HS is not a place where coaches usually look for talent.  But FSU fans are really glad the Noles looked because Lawrence-Stample committed to Florida State after visiting last week's Junior Day event.  On that same weekend, he attended a combine in SoFla.  And everyone took notice of the 6'1.5" 299 lb defensive tackle. 

The kid looks up to Dwight Freeney. That might seem unusual, considering Freeney is an undersized defensive end and Lawrence-Stample is a defensive tackle prospect who will eventually play at 310 lbs or so. But remember that Stample played a lot of linebacker last season at 280 lbs (not 265 as previously reported).

What Stample, who was recently added to the ESPNU 150 Watch List (about 385 of the nation's best prospects) did at the combine, however, might become stuff of legend. He benched 185 lbs 32 times. The next best competitor did it 29 times, and none of the other 200 competitors bested 25 reps. Stample ran a 4.90 laser timed 40-yard dash time, which was better than 125 other combine entrants, including many skill position players. His 30" vert is also really good for a 299 lb man.  Keep reading to see the most impressive part of Stample's game:

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Karlos was an expected commitment, as his brother Vince is a linebacker on the team.  He becomes the fifth commitment of the 2011 cycle, joining First Coast RB Eric Beverly, Treasure Coast DBs Lamarcus Brutus and Keelin Smith, and Deland OL Trey Pettis.

VITALS:

Height: 6'2'
Weight: 205 lbs.
40-yd dash: 4.5
ESPN Rating: 
Rivals.com Rating: Not ranked yet (likely Rivals100)
Scout.com Rating: Not ranked yet
Grades:  Not a qualifying concern
Other offers:  Alabama, LSU, Georgia, Miami, Ohio State, Notre Dame, Michigan, Tennessee

Click "Continue to Read More..."

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Christian Green finally ended speculation as he signed with the 'Noles over the likes of Florida, Miami, Southern Cal (Green was the first player in the state of Florida to be offered by the Trojans), Georgia, North Carolina, Ohio State, Tennessee, and Michigan.  He has one of the most impressive offer sheets in the nation. 

VITALS:

Hometown: Tampa, FL (Tampa Catholic High)
Height: 6'2'
Weight: 200 lbs.
40-yd dash: 4.46
Vertical: 36''
ESPN Rating: 82 (4*), #9 ATH (#53 overall)
Rivals.com Rating: 4*, 5.9, #7 ATH (#61 overall)
Scout.com Rating: 5*, #5 WR, #1 overall prospect in Florida
Grades:  Not a qualifying concern

Continue reading for more!  Video, Scouting Reports.

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Christian Jones is considered by many the top linebacker in Florida.  He is a Florida State legacy, with his father, Willie Jones Sr., and his brother, DE Willie Jones Jr.  This is not an unexpected commitment.

Christian might have the most impressive offer sheet in the nation.  Florida, LSU, Miami, Alabama, USC (LB coach Ken Norton called him the best LB he has seen this cycle), Oklahoma, Alabama, LSU, Michigan, Tennessee, and Clemson have all offered.

He joins one of the best defensive classes in the nation.  You know that Joyner, Luc, and Shaw were working on him to join the FSU class at the UA game.

VITALS:

Hometown: Winter Park, FL (Lake Howell High)
Height: 6'4''
Weight: 228 lbs.
40-yd dash: 4.5
ESPN Rating: 83, #27 overall
Rivals.com Rating: 5*, 6.1, LB #2, #20 overall
Scout.com Rating:  4*, #5 OLB
Grades:  Not a qualifying concern

Continue reading for more. Video, Scouting Reports, etc.

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Tampa Athlete Jeremy Deering picked the Rutgers Scarlet Knights over Florida State.  This is a big disappointment for FSU fans as Deering had repeatedly indicated to other FSU commitments that he would sign with the 'Noles. 

Why did he sign with Rutgers?  There are a few possible reasons.  First, Rutgers wanted Deering as a wide receiver.  And they could offer a lot of early playing time.  Florida State wanted Deering as safety and could not likely offer the early playing time.  Deering also has family in New Jersey.  FSU recruited this kid hard.  Rutgers did too.

The TBO has quotes:

The coaches have told him he will play receiver.  "I feel like I'll get the most playing time there my first year."  Deering said he wanted a place where he could stand out. 

Keep reading to see about Deering if you care to.

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UPDATE:  As we speculated on twitter 7 days ago, Demar Dorsey has finally confirmed that UF and him have parted ways.  As indicated below, we consider him an FSU commitment and have since he committed to the 'Noles over the weekend.  He will be a 'Nole unless he decommits and goes to USC.

It's Wednesday.  That means recruiting.  As always, refer to the recruiting board for any info you may need on these prospects!  (or click their name if a link is embedded).  One more week until National Signing Day!  Make sure to be here for all the fun next Wednesday!

Here's an update from JC at ESPN:

Florida State Seminoles
New coach: Jimbo Fisher
The moment it was announced that former coach Bobby Bowden was retiring and Fisher was taking over, the Seminoles went on a tear, getting commitments from several of the top prospects in the country, including five-star CB Lamarcus Joyner (Fort Lauderdale, Fla./Saint Thomas Aquinas) and five-star ILB Jeff Luc (Port Saint Lucie, Fla./Treasure Coast), the nation’s top prospects at their respective positions. The Seminoles are waiting on defensive end Corey Lemonier (Hialeah, Fla./Hialeah), athlete Christian Green (Tampa, Fla./Catholic) and linebacker Christian Jones (Winter Park, Fla./Lake Howell) down the stretch. They have a good shot at the clean sweep, plus a few potential surprises.

This past week Florida State has received a commitment from Boyd Anderson S Demar Dorsey.  Some sites are disputing this and apparently even Dorsey himself is saying that he is undecided, but we believe this is just posturing by the kid to preserve some mystery and draw attention to his "announcement."  We're sticking by the story and our information is that Dorsey is still an FSU commitment.  He could be very good under a defensive backs coach like Florida State's Mark Stoops.

As for the conflicting reports on Dorsey and the accusations of irresponsible journalism stemming from running a story without quotes, we stand by our story.  We learned of the commitment over the weekend, but in discussing the issue with other site managers, elected not to run it unless someone else released the information.  Nobody was willing to be first.  TN did not break the story, but rather linked to the breaking news from Luke Stampini.  Stampini breaks commitments, holds camps in SoFla, and is majorly tapped in to the local high school scene.  He knows when kids elect to go to even the tiniest of schools.  Once the information was out in the open, we shared what we had heard and gave information on Dorsey's profile as a prospect.

The argument that the story somehow damaged FSU's recruiting efforts or aided the coaches of other staffs is similarly flawed.  School A has private investigators tailing the school B's staff.  This is serious business.  To assert that UF or any school gained new information from TN's story is to demonstrate a lack of understanding of the level of information available to college staffs.  UF absolutely knew as soon as Dorsey committed over the weekend, and it was Dorsey himself who told other recruits and staff that he made the switch.  It's a rare occurrence when a coaching staff learns new information via a message board or digital media outlet.  Typically that occurs when a site reports action in real-time, like when a prospect commits during his official visit and the site reports it immediately.  That was not the case here, as the story came more than a day after the event.  College coaches are paid to know this information and you better believe they knew the Dorsey story before the Gator message boards began to discuss the story in the early part of the weekend.

If UF flips him back, or if USC can pull the switch,  they will have wrestled him away from FSU and done so without the aid of any website.  

1/22/10 Weekend Visits:

• FSU firmed up the commitments of Terrence Brooks and Cameron Erving, which was no surprise.  There is some chance Brooks could go to USF, but that would not be a big loss for what is already considered an excellent DB class.  
• ThaRinger.com reports that FSU commitment LB Telvin Smith enjoyed his visit to UGA.  Tharinger feels, as do I, that Smith will be in FSU's class come February 3rd.
• There is a lot of smoke about 4* DE J.R. "Ego" Ferguson's visit.  There are some saying that Ferguson committed to FSU while on the FSU.  Despite this, I do not expect him to end up at FSU, but rather at Miami, where he visits on the 29th.

• Honestly, I am surprised that New Jersey OL Dan Foose has not publicly committed to the 'Noles.  Expect a commitment soon.

• Our Shaydon Akuna source spoke with him late Tuesday night and he indicated that contrary to some rumors, he has not yet canceled his visit to Florida State.  That said, a linebacker from Hawaii committing to a school in Tallahassee, Florida should be considered unlikely. 

Other Assorted Notes:

• Former 'Nole commit Tavaris Barnes is solid to Clemson and let the world know via a rather boisterous face book announcement.  
• LB Christian Jones is probably the most-talked about recruit leading up to NSD this year.  Numerous outlets are reporting that he will make a visit to FSU before NSD, either a mid-week visit or an unofficial on the 29th.  Tharinger.com confirmed that Jones has basketball games Friday and Tuesday.  If he is on campus this weekend, it will likely be Saturday.   
• Tampa Catholic WR Christian Green might be taking a visit to FSU this weekend. Green's brother recently committed to play defensive end for FAMU, a development that bodes well for FSU.  We believe FSU continues to lead over UGA and UF for Green's services. 
  
• DE Corey Lemonier narrowed his choices to FSU and Auburn.  Pretty confident with him.  It will depend on how he bonds with DE coach Darin Eliot and if he buys into the SEC hype machine. 
  
• Some possible greyshirt candidates are Holmes Onwukaife (late birthday and he already wants to redshirt) and Dan Foose.  These are all unconfirmed rumors, and TN is not sure which recruits will greyshirt. 
  
• While we expect that FSU will sign multiple kids with the intention of placing them in Junior Colleges, those kids are not specifically known at this time. 

Inside,  we offer a predicted class!  Click "continue reading this story"

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If you are responding to a current comment it is fine to stay in the story, if you have a new comment please use this new thread so the pages don't slow too badly http://www.tomahawknation.com/2010/1/15/1252486/terrence-mitchell-overflow-thread

As first reported by TBO.com at http://www2.tbo.com/content/2010/jan/14/mitchell-commits-fsu/sports-prepsports/ :

"When I took my visit there last weekend, it just felt like home, a place I could see myself being the next four or five years," said the 5-foot-10, 165-pound Terrence Mitchell. "I got along with all the players, all the coaches and I love the school. It just feels right."

"T-Rex" had offers from FSU, UF, Miami, Alabama (key for DBs), Ohio State, UNC, UGA, and Tennessee.  He was recruited by Jimbo Fisher and Lawrence Dawsey.  Dawsey has done a nice job to re-establish FSU in the bay area, especially because the 'Noles had no Tampa presence in the middle part of the decade.

VITALS:

Hometown: Tampa, FL (Hillsborough HS)
Height: 5'9" (the 5'10" in the Tampa Tribune article is generous)
Weight: 160 lbs.
40-yd: 4.4- (Legit, many kids claim a 4.3 and run a 4.55. Terrence is one of the fastest players in the fastest state in the country)
Other speed:  10.59 100-Meter (Reggie Bush ran a 10.60 as a Jr in San Diego)
Vertical: 35''
ESPN Rating: 80 (4*), #142 National
Rivals.com Rating: 4*, #5 CB, #83 R100
Grades: Fully Qualified

Inside, an evaluation, recruitment story, and lots of film!  Click "continue reading"

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Comment Overflow Section- all new comments should go here. 

Straight to it. 

I got a call during my first class and the content was quite good.  FSU is going to host a kid named Brice Schwab for an official visit.  6'8" 320lb offensive tackle stud.  He is a JUCO, and the guy I spoke with believed he'd be a one-and-done type player, not that he would have only a single year of eligibility, but that he could be good enough to go pro after his junior season.  Lots of questions here.  He was committed to USC, which runs a similar zone-blocking scheme to what FSU runs.  FSU has two returning starters at tackle, but apparently Schwab is the type of kid you don't turn down.  This fits with the new FSU idea of competing for a starting spot at all times, which makes kids give a consistent championship-caliber effort.  Everyone had been recruiting him like he was a SoCal kid because he had committed to USC and went to a California JUCO, but he's a country coal-miner family type kid from Pennsylvania, and could mesh well with Trickett's attitude.  Here's some film:

Considering the size of 2011 commitment Trey Pettis (a huge stud offensive tackle commitment), and Trickett's comments that he'd take 300lb type kids as long as they can move.

Current 2010 commits: (click the links to read more)

• DL Darious Cummings (note:  Cummings committed before FSUncensored took over the site.)
• S Chad Abrams (note:  we did an overview in a March WORT after Abrams committed.)
• DE Tavaris Barnes (note: Recently decommitted to Clemson, some say it's not over)
• LB Holmes Onwukaife
• WR De'Joshua Johnson
• TE/Hback Tank Sessions
• LB Telvin Smith
• WR Jared Haggins
• DBTerrence Brooks    
• DT Cameron Erving
• QB Clint Trickett
• Nigel Terrell
• Damien Jacobs
• Greg Dent
• Mike Harris
• Jeff Luc
• Lamarcus Joyner
• Kenny Shaw

 Notes:

• Some say FSU has a shot with Ivan McCartney because he can't get into UM, and wants to stay closer than West Virginia.
• Mack Brown has set up officials to FSU, UF, and UGA. Although some say that he will not visit UGA or FSU. Some people really believe that FSU has a good shot.
• Demar Dorsey will visit FSU. FSU already has plenty of S, and he has lots of concerns surrounding that world class speed.
• Christian Jones and Christian Green still seem to be heavy Nole leans but want to decide on NSD. Jones' dad does hate the way Bowden's tenure ended.
• Lane Kiffin and crew leaving to go to USC has to help with current UT committs and people being recruited. Calvin Smith may be a Nole. Lemonier was seriously considering them. The main recruiters for UT are now employed either at FSU or USC.
• Jeremy Deering is a sick sick athlete, he will need a redshirt but he has amazing potential.

Continue reading this post »

January!  Recruiting season is in full force.  Prospects' high school football seasons have wrapped up, and that means that they can focus on the recruiting process.

Current 2010 commits: (click the links to read more)

• DL Darious Cummings (note:  Cummings committed before FSUncensored took over the site.)
• S Chad Abrams (note:  we did an overview in a March WORT after Abrams committed.)
• DE Tavaris Barnes
• Holmes Onwukaife
• De'Joshua Johnson
• Tank Sessions
• Telvin Smith
• Jared Haggins
• Terrence Brooks    
• Cameron Erving
• Clint Trickett
• Nigel Terrell 

• Damien Jacobs

  Greg Dent

• Mike Harris

  Jeff Luc

•  Lamarcus Joyner

  Matt Elam
• Kenny Shaw

Notes:

• I think Matt Elam's commitment is on shaky ground.  This has been debated to death.  I can't really get a feel on him, but some are confident he sticks with FSU.
• FSU is in the thick of things for Corey Lemonier's services.  I think FSU lands him.  Coley, Fisher, and Gran are really going to be working on him, as will Haggins and Eliot.
• Here is a 2011 LB prospect that I like a lot.  Name is Tony Steward, out of Jacksonville, FL.
• Christian Green is looking great at WR during the Army game practices.  Reports say he looks very explosive.  FSU is in great standing.
• Due to UF RB coach Kenny Carter leaving the Gators for Louisville, there is a decent possibility that current UF RB commit Mack Brown will open his recruitment up.  FSU has a good shot.
• With or without Elam, this staff is doing a great job on the trail.  They are really taking advantage of the momemtum.
• Check out SWFLNole's excellent coverage of the Under Armour All American Bowl.  It's in the archives.  He had outstanding coverage.

More after the jump, including some video, and my thoughts on FSU's remaining targets

Continue reading this post »

Another one for the 'Noles.  Shaw had other offers from UF, Miami, LSU, UGA, Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, Michigan, and Ohio State.  Shaw committed today during the UA Game.

VITALS:

Hometown: Orlando, FL (Dr. Phillips High)
Height: 6'0"
Weight: 175 lbs.
40-yd dash: 4.5
ESPN Rating: 81
Rivals.com Rating: 4*, 5.8, WR #25

 ESPN Scouts Inc: (some, with video on the page)

Some video:

Kenny Shaw 2008 Highlights (viaUltimateProspects)

He's a very crisp player, and he runs great routes.  Because he needs to gain weight, he will probably redshirt when he gets on campus.  Those might be Shaw's three biggest assets:  speed, polish, and route running.  Shaw is just so smooth when he runs and cuts. His ability to get separation is outstanding.  He will most likely play in the slot while at Florida State.  It will be fun watching him catch footballs from EJ Manuel.

Here is some video from the Gridiron Kings event:

Shaw will have to gain weight when he gets to FSU.  He is very skinny, with thin wrists and ankles. 

Some tidbits:

Shaw -- who is up to 18 scholarship offers including Michigan, Florida State and South Carolina -- ran smooth, precise routes and showed more than adequate speed.

More:

There were several national-caliber WRs in Tallahassee, but Shaw's dominating effort made the MVP selection and easy one for the WR staff. A second team all-state pick last fall after setting school records with 64 catches for 914 yards and 10 TDs, Shaw possesses a great combination of raw speed and route-running ability, and was able to create separation from DBs all day long.

And now, I really want him in this class.  He's made a believer out of me and many others with his Showtime performance, 7 on 7 performances, and his Gridiron Kings video. 

Comparison?  Marvin "Snoop" Minnis.

I expect Christian Green, Jared Haggins, and DJ Johnson to round out the receiver class.

All in all, a very solid pickup for FSU.

The TomahawkNation.com recruiting map has been updated to reflect the commitment.

Make sure to check the TomahawkNation.com Recruiting Board to stay current with all the 'Nole's current targets!

WOW!

Is anyone doubting the recruiting ability of Jimbo Fisher and James Coley now?  Elam, Tomahawk Nation's #2 prospect in Florida, had been committed to the Gators since October 8, 2008, but had reconsidered when the Meyer news broke on December 26th.  He still plans to enroll early.

In addition to his UF, Elam had other offers from OSU, FSU, Miami, UGA, Alabama, Tennessee, LSU, ND, and USC.  Pretty much everyone and their mother had offered Elam a scholarship.

[unrelated note: remember that there is a basketball game tonight]

via www.soflafootball.com

VITALS:

Hometown:  Palm Beach, Florida
High School: Dwyer
Height: 5'11''
Weight: 210
40 Time: 4.45
ESPN: 84 (4*), #2 ATH, #13 national
Rivals: 5*, #2 ATH, #13 National
Grades:  Not a known qualifying concern

Inside - Scouting Reports, Video, and more on this huge commitment!

Continue reading this post »

We don't really have much today.  As a result, this will be a primarily user-driven day. 

 As always, we funnel coverage (except in the next couple of days) to the 2010 Big Board and the 2010 Recruiting Map.  If you have a question, and there isn't a post on the front page, ask it in the 2010 BB.  Remember to get out and watch these prospects play.  On to the coverage.

Current 2010 commits: (click the links to read more)

• DL Darious Cummings (note:  Cummings committed before FSUncensored took over the site.)
• S Chad Abrams (note:  we did an overview in a March WORT after Abrams committed.)
• DE Tavaris Barnes
• Holmes Onwukaife
• De'Joshua Johnson
• Tank Sessions
• Telvin Smith
• Jared Haggins
• Terrence Brooks    
• Cameron Erving
• Clint Trickett
• Nigel Terrell 

• Damien Jacobs

  Greg Dent

• Mike Harris

  Jeff Luc

•  Lamarcus Joyner

Notes:

• Dr. Phillips WR Kenny Shaw says that he will announce his college at the Under Armour All Star game in early January.  I expect him to announce for FSU.
• Another note on that game:  Tomahawk Nation author SWFLNole will be there for the practices and will be live-blogging the game.
• Tomahawk Nation member NIU interviewed LB target Shaydon Akuna here!
• TN member Aussierat went into detail about Mark Stoops' recruiting ability.
• I can't complain about FSU's position with Hialeah DE Corey Lemonier.  I think it comes down to FSU or Miami.  I'm not going to doubt Fisher, Coley, and Gran.
• As this point, if Lake Howell LB Christian Jones doesn't commit to FSU, it will be a minor miracle.
• FSU and Georgia seem to be the two teams battling it out for Tampa Catholic WR Christian Green.  Still, I expect FSU to land him.
• ESPN Recruiting did a pretty good piece on a 2011 target, CB Nick Waisome of South Grove.  He is a heavy Gator lean.
• Speaking of 2011 prospects, Tampa Plant ATH James Wilder Jr. pretty much dominated the state title game.  He likes UF early.  He best projects to be a DE/OLB on the next level.
• Some highlights of St. Thomas Aquinas players at Elite Scouting Services.

Some video inside!

Continue reading this post »

Tomahawk Nation's top prospect in the Sunshine State has committed to the 'Noles.  Lamarcus' mentor (genron187) posts here, so congratulate him as well.

Joyner had offers from basically every premier team in the nation.  Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Miami, USC, North Carolina, Ohio State, Tennessee, etc.  Rumors that the St. Louis Rams offered are still unconfirmed.

VITALS:

Hometown: Miami, FL (St Thomas Aquinas)
Weight: 172 lbs.
40-yd dash: 4.34
ESPN Rating: #5 ESPNU150, 87 Grade (5*)
Rivals.com Rating: 5*, 6.1, CB #2 (#14 overall)
Grades:  Not a qualifying concern

Recruitment:

Most people considered Joyner a heavy FSU lean.  His brother got him interested in the 'Noles, so we have that connection.  The facebook status of his mentor recently read "Joyner's mentor's facebook status after the visit: Just had Jimbo Fisher head of FSU in my crib with coach Odell and Cooley. Had a great time. I think I see a tomahawk chop in my future..." Joyner made visits to FSU in April, July, and November (official).  He loved all three.  Joyner took visits to OSU and Notre Dame, while visiting Florida and Miami a couple of times.

For about two weeks now, everybody had expected Joyner to commit.  But the announcement that came via instant messenger, text, and phone calls...  college football fans felt this commitment.  It prompted an internet explosion.  A radio station here in Alabama reported the news.  As for who hit "submit" first, Hear that "Fish" at Noledigest.com broke it by about 2 minutes and some odd seconds on their message board..  No doubt that FSU did everything in it's power to get the word out.  Even spots that don't cover recruiting had it within 5 minutes.  Warchant.com's Chris Nee Caught up with the elusive Lamarcus($ub required).

After not giving many interviews and playing the recruiting game extremely well, Joyner gave the above interview, and also said this to ESPN affiliate Web site NoleInsider.com ($):

"I just believe personally that Florida State is back. It's always been my dream school. Things were going downhill in the program, but guys like Bobby Bowden and Mickey Andrews were the reason that I liked Florida State. I believe in Jimbo Fisher and the things they've got going on. I am a player that can go anywhere and adapt to different situations, but I just felt at home there."

Joyner apparently wanted to tell the Ohio State coaches in person as the Buckeye's head coach Jim Tressel was reportedly visiting Joyner tonight.  That's a classy move by Joyner, and OSU put up one helluva fight.  And yes, this means that he was so convinced that it was FSU that he didn't even care to sleep on his decision.  To commit to your #1 school with your #2 school in your living room with their head coach and four assistants on the same day?  Also, it is nine degrees in Columbus, OH tonight and 83 in Miami.  To deny Ohio State's coaches the chance at their SoFla vacation would be cruel.

Continue reading for more. Video, Scouting Reports, ect.

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Lots of info today.  As always, we funnel coverage (except in the next couple of days) to the 2010 Big Board and the 2010 Recruiting Map.  If you have a question, and there isn't a post on the front page, ask it in the 2010 BB.  Remember to get out and watch these prospects play.  On to the coverage.

Current 2010 commits: (click the links to read more)

• DL Darious Cummings (note:  Cummings committed before FSUncensored took over the site.)
• S Chad Abrams (note:  we did an overview in a March WORT after Abrams committed.)
• DE Tavaris Barnes
• Holmes Onwukaife
• De'Joshua Johnson
• Tank Sessions
• Telvin Smith
• Jared Haggins
• Terrence Brooks    
• Cameron Erving
• Clint Trickett
• Nigel Terrell 

• Damien Jacobs

  Greg Dent

• Mike Harris

  Jeff Luc

Come inside for much more!

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Reportedly Gran's style did not mesh with Tennessee's other coaches.  This is another example of FSU head coach Jimbo Fisher going after some of the best coaches in the country.

Update:  RockyTopTalk Reacts:

........This is mostly bad news for Tennessee. Gran, one of my personal favorites on the Chimera ever since reading this story about him and his family (and this free story), has contributed greatly to Tennessee's success in a single short year. He was largely responsible for the resurrection of the Volunteer rushing game, and his fingerprints were all over last year's recruiting class as well as the one developing for this year..........

..........Tennessee's ability to recruit Florida obviously takes a major hit. According to Rivals, Gran was the primary recruiter on four of last year's blue chips, and was a factor in landing Bryce Brown.

Coaching:

Here is some of Gran's work with RBs, courtesy of Tennessee's athletic site:

If he produces the same success in the offensive backfield that he has for the past decade, Vols fans are in for a treat. Seven NFL running backs tutored under Gran at some point in their careers, among them Carnell Williams, Ronnie Brown, Rudi Johnson and Deuce McAllister. Williams was an All-America at Auburn and earned 2005 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year, while Brown and McAllister were NFL first-round picks and Johnson earned 2000 SEC Player of the Year.

Brown, Johnson and McAllister all have played in the Pro Bowl.

Other former Gran-coached professionals who have earned elite status include John Avery, who went from Ole Miss to the NFL to stardom in the Canadian Football League; and Brandon Jacobs, an Auburn Tiger who has compiled back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons with the New York Giants.

That does not include the work he has done with current Tennessee RB Montario Hardesty.  Hardesty, under Gran's direction, has made tremendous strides since last year.  Gran was also special teams coordinator at Tennessee and Auburn.

Recruiting:

Gran has a reputation as one of the best recruiters in the country.  His expertise is South Florida, which is pretty exciting for Nole fans.  Some of the prospects he was recruiting for Tennessee include Matt Elam, Jeff Luc, Chris Dunkley, and Merrill Noel.  Marcus Lattmore supposedly has a great relationship with Gran, but I think that ship has sailed in regards to Lattimore and FSU.  There is a chance he could be the recruiting coordinator at FSU.

Future Offensive Staff (in my opinion):

OC:  James Coley
RB:  Eddie Gran
WR:  Lawrence Dawsey
TE: Dameyune Craig*
OL:  Rick Trickett

*That is a guess.  I think that Fisher will find somewhere to put Craig.

These are exciting times, people.  We'll have more to come.

Harris is originally from Miami, Florida.  He will have three years to play two. Harris will be an early winter early enrollee, which means he will be able to participate in spring practice, this is huge for the development, learning, getting to know his teammates, and getting familiar with the 'Noles' new scheme.

Harris had other offers from Alabama, Auburn, Arizona, Ole Miss, Florida, Michigan, and Oregon.  He was a very sought after defensive back.

VITALS:

Height: 6'0''
Weight: 185
40 Time: 4.4
ESPN: No grade
Rivals: 4*

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Go Noles.

http://www.tomahawknation.com/2009/11/28/1176984/fsu-uf-4th-quarter-game-thread

http://www.tomahawknation.com/2009/11/28/1176983/fsu-uf-3rd-quarter-game-thread

http://www.tomahawknation.com/2009/11/28/1176982/fsu-uf-halftime

http://www.tomahawknation.com/2009/11/28/1176980/fsu-uf-2nd-quarter-game-thread

http://www.tomahawknation.com/2009/11/28/1176976/fsu-vs-uf-1st-quarter

Go Noles.

Go Noles.

Go Noles.

3rd Q GAME THREAD

4TH Q GAME THREAD

4TH Q OVERFLOW

Go Noles.

Go Noles.

Lots of info today.  As always, we funnel coverage (except in the next couple of days) to the 2010 Big Board and the 2010 Recruiting Map.  If you have a question, and there isn't a post on the front page, ask it in the 2010 BB.  Remember to get out and watch these prospects play.  On to the coverage.

Current commits: (click the links to read more)

• DL Darious Cummings (note:  Cummings committed before FSUncensored took over the site.)
• S Chad Abrams (note:  we did an overview in a March WORT after Abrams committed.)
• DE Tavaris Barnes
• Holmes Onwukaife
• De'Joshua Johnson
• Tank Sessions
• Telvin Smith
• Jared Haggins
• Terrence Brooks    
• Cameron Erving
• Clint Trickett
• Nigel Terrell 

• Damien Jacobs

NOTES:

• The 2011 Big Board will debut in December.
• Lowndes LB Telvin Smith "decommitted" from FSU and is now down to the 'Noles, UGA, and UF.  I do think he remains a Seminole (especially after a new DC).
• There is a rumor going around that 2011 Lowndes DB Tyler Hunter (heavy FSU lean) will never play football again.    The rumor is that he has spinal stenosis.  Prayers for the kid if true.  Can anyone confirm or debunk this rumor?
• There will be a pretty good visitor haul for the Maryland game.  JuCo DE Wayne Dorsey, DE Adrian Hubbard, JuCo DT Amp McCloud, JuCo RB Debrale Smiley, and TE Tank Sessions are a few expected in.  I happen to think that one of these players (and/or Charles Deas and the unofficials) will commit to FSU on their visit.
• Glades Central ATH Greg Dent straight up murdered the Muck Bowl.  6 catches for 188 yards and 2 TDs; an kickoff return for a TD; 3 PBUs on defense.  Dent will probably be visiting FSU for the Maryland game.  Dent just has a burst that cannot be measured in a combine setting.  I think he will be in this class.
• Everyone knows by now that Dwyer DB Matt Elam took an official visit to FSU for the NC State.  Though he reportedly had a great time, I still think he ends up a Gator.  The only thing FSU has going for it is playing time. 
• Tampa Catholic WR Christian Green still has not committed to anyone.  Good news; I still think he will be wearing garnet and gold at this time next year.
• STA DB Lamarcus Joyner did not drop FSU.  Joyner will be here for the Maryland game.
  
• Lake Howell LB Christian Jones took a visit to Tennessee on October 31 and another one to Alabama the next week.  FSU fans should be thanking their lucky stars because of Jones' love for the school and his family ties.  I would not expect a decision from him until FSU's DC is named.
• Tampa CB Terrence Mitchell is not impressing observers this season.  FSU will receive his final visit, but he is likely favoring USF right now.
• ATH Hasean Clinton Dix (2011) is a recruit that was passed along via Athetevault. He played primarily RB at Orlando (Edgewater) but has since transfered to Orlando (Dr. Phillips) and is playing primarily Safety. He is much better on defense, but is probably D-1 at either (BCS caliber at S). There is RB Film at athletevault under player profiles, S film is FREE right here.
• Columbus Carver DE Corey Crawford has really improved over the last year.  He is a much more explosive player.  He has been committed to Clemson since July, but he made a visit to FSU for a game in October.  He is a recruit that the 'Noles could have a decent chance of turning.
• Hialeah DL Corey Lemonier and Calvin Smith might be in town for the Maryland game.  I still just cannot see these kids in FSU's class.  I'm hoping though.
• Homestead DB Keith Baxter is a new name for 2011 class.  Charles Fishbein of ESS ran a story on this kid, and I found one of his profiles here.  Measurables of 6'0'' 180 4.35 (confirmed) are pretty good, don't you think?
• Treasure Coast LB Jeff Luc will be here for the Maryland game on an unofficial. Rumors still out there that he doesn't qualify for an EE.
• On the new uniforms - As long as the recruits like them, they are cool with me. The players seem to really like them, and I can't believe that the recruits who are here to see them up close and personal won't have similar feelings.  Recruits seem to dig stuff like this. 

Inside - A potential DC's recruiting base, the Manuel effect, and a new DE offer (with video!)

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Go Noles.

Go Noles.