Grambling State signs 21 football standouts

Photo: Grambling State University head football coach Rod Broadway.

by Grambling State Sports Information

Grambling State University head coach Rod Broadway announced today that a total of 21 student-athletes have signed national letters of intent to play football for the Tigers next season.

GRAMBLING, La. – Grambling State University head coach Rod Broadway announced today that a total of 21 student-athletes have signed national letters of intent to play football for the Tigers next season.

With a focus of recruiting in the state of Louisiana during the offseason, the coaching staff went out and signed 10 recruits from the state. Grambling State continued its presence in the state of Alabama and nabbed six standouts in addition to signing three players Georgia and one each from Texas and Virginia. Several players in the class are also highly decorated as eight of the 21 signees earned all-state honors.

Broadway said additional players will be signed through the duration of the signing period.

Sanford Banks OL 6-5 303 Columbus, Ga. (Carver)
Anchored the offensive line on a team that captured the Class AAA State Championship with a 15-0 record…named to the News3 All-Area High School Football Team…earned a one-star rating by Scout.com.

Chris Bearden OL 6-7 330 Stone Mountain, Ga. (Towers)
Participated in the DeKalb County Coaches Association All-Star Football Game…earned a one-star rating by Scout.com…one of two signees from the state of Georgia.

Nico Brown WR 6-1 173 Hodge, La. (Jonesboro-Hodge)
Named Honorable Mention All-State by the LSWA…caught 48 receptions for 479 yards and 10 touchdowns as a senior.

Brendan Crawford QB 6-5 205 El Paso, Texas (Chapin)
All-State performer who transferred into Chapin High School before the start of the 2007 season and made an immediate impact…passed for 2,207 yards and 20 touchdowns…also rushed for 266 yards and nine touchdowns and averaged 40.6 yards per punt with a long of 64 yards.

Maurice Crawford DL 6-2 245 Smiths, Ala. (Glenwood)
Selected to the Alabama Sports Writers Association All-State First team…participated in the AISA All-Star Game…a finalist for the ASWA Mr. Football honor…also a member of Glenwood’s basketball team.

Elijah Duzart WR 6-1 195 Alexandria, La. (Peabody)
Earned back-to-back honorable mention LSWA All-State honors…a member of the school’s nationally ranked basketball team…finished the 2007 season with 38 catches for 500 yards…also scored nine touchdowns.

Michael Harris DE 6-2 240 Bastrop, La. (Bastrop)
Hails from one of the most successful football programs in the state of Louisiana…helped his team capture three consecutive Class 4A Louisiana State Championships…recorded 72 tackles and three sacks as a senior.

Justin Higgins QB 6-2 185 Rayville, La. (Rayville)
One of the top athletes in the state of Louisiana who’ll play quarterback for Grambling State…named to the 2007 Class 3A LSWA All-State Team as an athlete…named as the LSWA’s Outstanding Offensive Athlete as a junior in 2006…passed for over 6,000 yards, rushed for nearly 2,000 yards and surpassed the 60-touchdown mark in his high school career...also was a standout linebacker in high school.

Myron Hobbs WR 6-3 195 Marrero, La. (John Ehret)
Named a 2007 Class 3A LSWA All-State honorable mention…hails from one of the most dominant programs in the state of Louisiana…earned a No. 13 ranking and a six star Super Combine Freak rating by Maxemfingerrecruiting.com…recorded 732 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns during his senior campaign.

Devyn Hyrd DL 6-2 260 Pineville, La. (Pineville)
Named a 2006 Class 4A LSWA All-State honorable mention… earned special mention honors on Jim Stefani’s Class of 2007 Underclassmen Recruiting Blog…hails from a strong high school program.

Sirderrick Landreth DL 6-2 310 Huntington (Shreveport HS)
Earned a one-star rating by Scout.com…one of three players to sign with Grambling State from the city of Shreveport…helped lead his team to the LHSAA Class 5A Playoffs.

Stephan McCord DB 6-2 180 Mobile, Ala. (McGill-Toolen)
Starter on the state’s top-ranked defense…earned honorable mention all-region honors last season in which he returned two interceptions for touchdowns in a single game…a special teams standout and also plays basketball…brother of current GSU defensive back T.J. McCord.

Greg McGrue OL 6-8 260 Birmingham, Ala. (Huffman)
Massive offensive lineman who earned All-State, All-Metro and All-City honors by the Birmingham News…earned a two-star rating by Scout.com and national ranking of 88… named as one of 10 players who could emerge as a major college player and Class of 2008 Sleeper by the Birmingham News.

Donovan Moss TE 6-4 240 Irondale, Ala. (Shades Valley)
High school teammate of fellow signee Van Phillips…a key member of his school’s basketball team…projects as a blocking tight end for the Tigers…continues the long line of talented players from the state of Alabama.

Van Phillips WR 6-2 205 Irondale, Ala. (Shades Valley)
Four-sport athlete…caught 56 passes for 731 yards and six touchdowns in his senior campaign…continues the long line of talented players from the state of Alabama…began his high school career as a tight end before switching to wide receiver…earned All-Metro and All-City honors by the Birmingham News…named as one of 10 players who could emerge as a major college player and Class of 2008 Sleeper by the Birmingham News.

Rodale Pippen ATH 6-0 185 South Boston, Va. (Halifax County)
Athletic player who played both quarterback and wideout…dual threat athlete who’ll play all over the field for Grambling State…recorded nearly 5,000 yards of total offense throughout his career with 2,000 yards passing in 2006.

Demetrius Porter OL 6-5 280 Marksville, La. (Marksville)
Named to the 2007 Class 3A LSWA All-State Team…participated in the 2007 Baton Rouge NIKE Rivals.com Combine…ranked as the 37th best prospect in Louisiana by Dandy Don’s Football Recruiting web site.

Quint Roberts OL 6-6 325 Anniston, Ala. (Anniston)
A member of one of the top offensive lines in the state of Alabama…continues the long line of talented players from Alabama… participated in the 2007 Atlanta NIKE Rivals.com Combine.

Darius Rose OL 6-6 250 Shreveport, La. (Captain Shreve)
One of two players from Captain Shreve to sign with Grambling State…earned All-District 1-5A Honorable Mention honors for his performance after the 2007 campaign.

Naquan Smith SS 6-1 185 Atlanta, Ga. (Mays)
Named Honorable Mention All-Area by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution…tallied 54 tackles, two interceptions and two fumble recoveries as a senior…also nailed 7-of-8 PATs.

Julian Wyndon OL 6-3 315 Shreveport, La. (Captain Shreve)
One of two players from Captain Shreve to sign with Grambling State…earned All-District 1-5A honors for his performance after the 2007 campaign…helped lead his team to the LHSAA Class 5A Playoffs.

Alcorn State releases 2008 Football Schedule

Alcorn State, MS —The Alcorn State University Athletic Department has released its 2008 Football Schedule. The Braves will host five games on the Academic Resort, starting with the August 30th, season opener against Southeastern Louisiana. Alcorn State will play all Southwestern Athletic schools in the upcoming season although the SWAC does not mandate this action.

The Braves will open with FCS opponent Southeastern Louisiana University of the Southland Conference and will play a FBS game at Troy University.

2008 Alcorn State University Football Schedule

Date Opponent Site Time

August 30 Southeastern Louisiana Alcorn State, MS 1 PM
September 6 *Grambling State University Grambling, LA 6 PM
September 13 Troy University Troy, AL 6 PM
September 20 *University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff Alcorn State, MS 6 PM
September 27 *Southern University Alcorn State, MS 1 PM
October 4 OPEN
October 11 *Mississippi Valley State University Itta Bena, MS TBA
October 18 *Alabama A&M University Huntsville, AL TBA
October 25 *Texas Southern University Alcorn State, MS 2 PM
(Homecoming)
November 1 *Alabama State University Alcorn State, MS 1 PM
November 8 OPEN
November 15 *Prairie View A&M Prairie View, TX TBA
November 22 *Jackson State University Jackson, MS TBA
(Capital City Classic)
December 13 SWAC Championship Birmingham, AL TBA

Bold print indicates home contests

* Denotes SWAC Conference Games

Coach Ernest T. Jones-Head Coach (1st Year)
Dr. George Ross-President
Mr. Wiley F. Jones-Interim Athletic Director
Ms. LaToya M. Shields-Sports Information Director

Alcorn State Announces 2008 Recruiting Class

Photo: Alcorn State University head football coach Ernest T. Jones.

Alcorn State, MS—With the first home game a little over six months away, Alcorn State has announced its 2008 recruiting class. The Braves have recruited three (3) linebackers, one (1) middle linebacker, five (5) offensive linemen, three (3) defensive ends, two (2) defensive backs, two (2) quarterbacks and one (1) running back. Alcorn State also has four mid-year recruits from community colleges and universities. This is the first class of recruits for Coach Jones.

ALCORN STATE UNIVERSITY 2008 SIGNEES

NAME POS HT WT HOMETOWN PREVIOUS SCHOOL

1. D’Angelo Buckner DB 6’0 185 Clinton, MS Clinton HS.

2. Josh Cragin* LB 6’2 225 Fort Walton Beach, FL Arizona Western CC.

3. Artis Evans LB 6’2 220 Pahokee, FL Pahokee HS.

4. Cedric Everson* DB 6’0 175 Detroit, MI University of Iowa.

5. Nathan Fears OL 6’5 240 Arlington, TX Bowie, HS.

6. Shavikia Gaines MLB 6’3 230 Fayette, MS Jefferson County HS.

7. John Hughes DE 6’3 225 Tuscaloosa, AL Northridge HS.

8. Obie James DE 6’1 225 McComb, MS McComb HS.

9. Stephen Johnson OL 6’4 265 Crystal Springs, MS Crystal Springs, MS.

10. Antoine Mason DB 6’1 190 Oak Park, MI Oak Park HS.

11. Brandon Morris DE 6’2 240 Arlington, TX Sam Houston HS.

12. Michael Mosley* TE 6’1 240 Cleveland, MS MS Gulf Coast CC.

13. Kenny Roby LB 6’2 225 Macon, MS Noxubee County HS.

14. Ke’onn Rutley RB 5’10 180 Tuscaloosa, AL Northridge HS.

15. Willie Ryas OL 6’4 285 Indianola, MS Gentry HS.

16. Jerry Salas OL 6’3 265 Arlington, TX Sam Houston HS.

17. Aaron Shavers QB 6’0 185 Detroit, MI Inkster HS.

18. Michael Simmons* WR 5’10 185 Jackson, MS Northeast MS CC.

19. Percy Turner QB 6’1 185 Fayette, MS Jefferson County HS.

20. Kavon Tyson LB 6’2 200 Delray Beach, FL Atlantic HS.

21. Isaac Williams OL 6’2 280 Clinton, MS Clinton HS.

* Denotes Mid-year Signees

New contract, new QB make JSU Comegy happy

Photo: Jackson State University head football coach Rick Comegy.

The Jackson State football community got a double-dose of good news on Wednesday's National Signing Day. Head coach Rick Comegy pulled in a recruiting class that he rated an 8.0 on a scale of 10 - a class that includes standout quarterback Dominick Britt.

He also received a contract extension through the 2011 season, pending IHL approval. His original four-year deal was set to expire after the 2009 season. Comegy led the JSU to its first SWAC title since 1996. Athletic director Bob Braddy would not release the details of the contract. "I was really pleased and honored," Comegy said. "It brings some security and stability."

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Savannah State announces Coach Wells first recruiting class

Photo: Savannah State University head football coach Robby Wells

SAVANNAH, Ga.- First year head football coach Robby Wells completed his recruiting class at Savannah State Wednesday with the announcement of 23 National Letter of Intent signees.

The jewels of the class could be athlete Kurvin Curry (6-2, 200) and Deron Talley (6-1, 175). During the 2007 season, Curry passed for 3,000 yards and 30 touchdowns, rushed for 1,575 yards and 15 touchdowns and was voted most valuable player in 2006 and 2007. In 2007, Talley recorded 36 receptions for 626 yards.

Savannah State Tigers 2008 Recruiting Class 2/6/08.

Name Pos. Ht. Wt. High School/Hometown 2007 Stats/Honors

1. Travis Alston DE 6-3 210 Cedar Grove/Ellenwood, Ga. Two-year starter.

2. Jared Brunson OL 6-2 290 Maynard Evans/Orlando, Fla. Graded out at 82% for the season with 48 pancake blocks and 27 knock downs.

3. Chris Bush WR 6-0 185 Bainbridge/Bainbridge, Ga. 52 receptions for 618 yards. 612 kick return yards and 10 touchdowns. 4x100 State Champion.

4. Cedric Chambers WR 6-0 185 Kendrick/Columbus, Ga.

5. Kurvin Curry QB/Ath 6-2 200 Hart County/ Hartwell, Ga. Passed for 3,000 yards with 30 Touchdowns, rushed for 1,575 yards and 15 touchdowns in two years. Team MVP in 2006 and 2007.

6. Jamal Davis OLB 6-3 195 South Aiken/Aiken, S.C. 48 receptions for 680 yards. Region 4-A Player of the Year. 182 tackles and three sacks.

7. Stephen Dorn LB 6-1 200 Apopka/Apopka, Fla. 68 tackles with five TFL along with four sacks and two hurries. One touchdown and one blocked punt.

8. McKeaver Edwards OL 6-2 300 Stephenson/Stone Mountain, Ga. Graded out at 88% with 20 pancake blocks. All Region 5-A. 25 key blocks.

9. Edward Endem OLB 6-0 190 North Clayton/Atlanta, Ga. Two-year starter.

10. Quintez Hayes DL 6-3 260 Thomasville/Thomasville, Ga. 76 tackles, 10 sacks and two pass break-ups.

11. Demetrius Holmes WR 5-11 195 Stockbridge/Stockbridge, Ga.

12. Johnny Howard DT 6-2 255 Dublin/Dublin, Ga. 54 tackles, 37 assists and four sacks. All-State selection and 2006 State Champion.

13. Tametrick Hunt DT 6-0 290 Hart County/Hartwell, Ga. 35 TFL, 15 sacks and team Most Valuable Defensive Lineman.

14. Thelmore Jackson OL 6-6 298 Tri-Cities/Atlanta, Ga. Two-year starter.

15. Timothy Jackson RB 5-7 170 Lovejoy/Hampton, Ga. Three-year starter.

16. Stephan Meyers DL 6-1 275 Camden County/St. Mary’s, Ga.

17. Alex Miller RB 5-11 190 Salem/Conyers, Ga. 183 carries for 1,008 yards and 12 touchdowns. 10 receptions for 145 yards. Team Offensive Player of the Year.

18. Grant Newman OL 6-4 280 Jefferson County/Louisville, Ga. Graded out at 85%. 16 knockdowns.

19. Keenan Ray OL 6-3 290 Lovejoy/Hampton, Ga. Two-year starter.

20. Richie Rucker FS 6-2 185 Hart County/Hartwell, Ga. 58 tackles, five break ups, two forced fumbles and eight interceptions.

21. Deron Talley WR 6-1 175 Orange Park/Orange Park, Fla. 36 receptions for 626 yards.

22. Pat Thomas DB 5-10 180 Mays/Atlanta, Ga. Three-year starter.

23. Anthony Young DB 5-10 170 Gainesville/Gainesville, Ga. Eight interceptions, 35 tackles, 14 assists and five break-ups. Team Most Valuable Defensive Back.

Tennessee State will count on local talent to fill its football needs

Photo: Tennessee State University head football coach James Webster.

Tennessee State Coach James Webster didn't have to go far for this year's football recruiting class. Of the 20 who signed letters of intent with TSU on Wednesday's National Signing Day, 14 are from Tennessee, including eight are from Middle Tennessee.

"We've got quite a few from Middle Tennessee," Webster said. "I thought this year the state of Tennessee had more prospects (than it has) since I've been here. "I wish we had more scholarships to offer but we were limited. But there're some really good players this year."

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Tennessee State University 2008 Football Signees (02/06/08 - 5:00p)

Name POS Ht Wt Hometown HS /Prev. School

1. Michael Becker QB 6-1 190 Nolensville, TN Ravenwood

2. Rogers Gaines III OL 6-7 320 Whitehouse, TN Whitehouse

3. Stevie Shelton DB 6-1 185 Nashville, TN Stratford

4. Edward Sanders Jr. DL 6-3 275 Nashville, TN Mc Gavock

5. Johntae Gleaves DL 6-0 258 Gallatin, TN Gallatin

6. Joshua Gregory TE 6-5 240 Oak Ridge, TN Oak Ridge

7. Sean Cunningham SAF. 6-2 220 Knoxville, TN Bearden

8. Orlandis Jackson DE 6-4 225 Chattanooga, TN Brainard

9. Keyron Hampton NOSE 6-1 280 Reddick, FL N. Marion

10. John Lopez KICKER 5-10 180 Nolensville, TN Ravenwood

11. Ronnie Bonham CB 6-1 190 Memphis, TN Mitchell

12. Rashawn Weatherspoon WR/DB 6-2 175 South Pittsburg, TN S.Pittsburg

13. Tracy Sims FB/LB 5-11 235 Chattanooga, TN Red Bank

14. Justin Bather DB 6-0 180 LaVergne, TN LaVergne

15. Christopher Gray WR 6-1 185 LaVergne, TN LaVergne

16. Johnny Butts, Jr. DL 6-4 265 Altamonte Springs, FL Lake Brantley

17. Deonte Kilgore LB 6-1 220 Marietta, GA Osborne

18. Travis James WR 5-11 180 Miami FL Boyd Anderson

19. Jamal Coleman CB 6-0 185 Hammond, IN Iowa Central CC

20. Marcus Broxie DE 6-3 240 Tampa, FL West Virginia (transfer)

North Carolina Central signs 17 recruits for '08 football

Photo: North Carolina Central University head football coach Mose Rison.

DURHAM, N.C. – North Carolina Central University head football coach Mose Rison announced the signing of 17 high school student-athletes on Wednesday (Feb. 6) as part of his 2008 recruiting class.

NCCU lost 13 starting seniors, including nine on defense, from last season’s squad, which posted a 6-4 record in the program’s first season of competition in the NCAA Championship Subdivision (formerly Division I-AA). With that in mind, Rison said the focus on the recruiting trail was replenishing the defensive unit.

“When we went out recruiting, we knew we had obvious needs on defense, especially on the defensive line and at linebacker,” said Rison, who is entering his second season as head coach at NCCU. “I feel we did a great job of addressing our needs.”

Thirteen of the 17 signees are slated for defensive positions, including four linemen and four linebackers.

“We recruited not only size, but speed,” Rison added. “We’ll be a lot faster on defense. I just can’t wait to get these kids on campus to really see what they can do.” Many of them will not have far to travel to the Durham campus, since 11 of the newcomers live in North Carolina.

“When we go out to recruit, we are looking for the best students and the best football players to fill our needs,” Rison said. “We happened to find many of them right here in North Carolina.”

Rison pointed out a few of the signees that he felt would make the biggest impact:
“Dominique Moore (6-3, 285, DL, Patrick Henry H.S., Roanoke, Va.) has a chance to be a super football player for us. He is big, strong and can run. I believe he will definitely help us.”

“Jordan Sanders (6-2, 210, LB, Warner Robins H.S., Warner Robins, Ga.) had an outstanding senior year. He had 104 tackles for one of the top football programs in the state. He will be a tremendous asset to our football program.”

“We found Malcolm Rook (6-0, 300, DL, J.H. Rose H.S., Greenville, NC) early last year. He can really run as an inside guy on the defensive side of the ball. He is an outstanding student and player.”

“Geovonie Irvine (5-8, 170, WR/KR, Hillside H.S., Durham, NC) is from right in our own backyard at Hillside High School. He is built from the same mold as another Hillside alumnus Brandon Alston (NCCU’s all-time leading punt returner). He is fast and has the potential to be an exciting playmaker as a wide receiver and return specialist.”

Rison also noted that his 2008 recruiting class is not complete. He said he is expecting to receive more commitments in the near future from those wanting to be a part of the Eagles program.

2008 North Carolina Central University Football Signees (as of Feb. 6)

Name Ht. Wt. Pos. High School Hometown Other Notes as H.S. Senior

1. Donavon Harbison 6-4 300 OL Freedom H.S. Morganton, NC

2. Rickie Hubbard 5-11 175 DB Stockbridge H.S. Stockbridge, GA

3. Geovonie Irvine 5-8 170 WR/KR Hillside H.S. Durham, NC 47 recs, 972 yds, 11 TDs, 20.6 ypc.

4. Alex Johnson 6-2 300 OL Sun Valley H.S. Monroe, NC Shrine Bowl participant, 38 pancakes, 0 sacks allowed, 95% grade.

5. Lloyd Leach 6-1 185 DB North Iredell H.S. Statesville, NC.

6. Ben Martin 5-11 165 K Sanderson H.S. Raleigh, NC.

7. Dominique Moore 6-3 285 DL Patrick Henry H.S. Roanoke, VA 14 TFLs, 6 sacks, 1st Team Western Valley District Offense and Defense for 2 years.

8. Brandon Outlaw 5-11 200 LB Grady H.S. Atlanta, GA.

9. Darien Pearson 6-4 200 DB East Burke H.S. Morganton, NC 93 tackles, 6 TFLs, 2 FF, 2 FR.

10. Elroy “Trey” Powell 6-0 215 LB Stockbridge H.S. Stockbridge, GA.

11. Decona Roberts 6-1 190 WR/DB Sun Valley H.S. Indian Trail, NC 54 recs; 796 yds; 8TDs, 4.45 40-yd.

12. Malcolm Rook 6-0 300 DL J.H. Rose H.S. Greenville, NC Shrine Bowl participant.

13. Jordan Sanders 6-2 210 LB Warner Robins H.S. Warner Robins, GA 104 tackles, 2 sacks, 12 FF, 1 INT, 5 PBUs, 2 blocked punts.

14. Eliezer Sandifer 6-0 225 LB Coral Reef H.S. Homestead, FL.

15. Leroy Vick 6-5 275 DL Fike H.S. Elm City, NC 67 tackles, 3 sacks, 3 FR.

16. Tommy Wallace 6-2 230 DL East Mecklenburg H.S. Charlotte, NC 68 tackles, 5 sacks.

17. Lamont Saffore 6-3 175 DB South View H.S. Hope Mills, NC 97 tackles, 3 INTs.

Last season's success pays off for the Norfolk State Spartans

Photo: Norfolk State University head football coach Pete Adrian.

NORFOLK, VA -Three months after Norfolk State's best football season in 23 years, the Spartans continued to reap the benefits. NSU signed 19 recruits Wednesday, including nine who received All-State recognition. Coach Pete Adrian said he expects the 2008 Spartans to be the deepest and most athletic team in the 10 years NSU has been in Division I.

"The big thing when I went into living rooms this time was I didn't have to say, 'If we win,' " said Adrian, whose incoming class includes 17 players from Virginia, one from Washington, D.C., and one from Florida. Adrian said the incoming class will allow the Spartans to be particularly deep at special teams, in the secondary and at linebacker.

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Included among the signees are 19 high school players and two Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS, formerly I-A) transfers who are already enrolled at NSU.

Norfolk State University 2008 Football Signees

Name Pos. Ht. Wt. Hometown/Previous School

1. Michael Alphonse* LB 6-0 230 Miami, Fla./Akron Univ./Norland HS
Spent three seasons at Division I FBS Akron…redshirted 2005 after suffering a knee injury…in high school, tallied 78 tackles en route to all-district and all-county honors as a senior ...made 82 stops as a junior…named All-Broward County...earned second-team all-county as a sophomore, tallying a career-best 90 tackles…has two years of eligibility remaining.

2. Markeith Brisco RB 5-11 195 Stephens City, Va./Sherando HS
First-team All-Northwestern District, All-Region II and second-team all-state Group AA as a senior…rushed 221 times for 1,726 yards and 26 touchdowns, averaging 7.8 yards per carry…led Sherando to the state Division 4 title game…also all-district as a kick returner and intercepted four passes on defense…high school teammates with fellow NSU signee Joey Christine.

3. Dennis Brown* QB 6-3 203 Miami, Fla./Univ. of Connecticut/Central HS
Attended UConn for three years…started two games (Rutgers, West Virginia) as a freshman in 2005, going 28 of 54 for 293 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions…redshirted 2006…went 5-for-12 for 48 yards and one TD as the Huskies’ backup in 2007… in high school, Brown was third-team all-state Class 6A as a senior, when he passed for 2,001 yards and 18 touchdowns…has two years of eligibility left

4. Steven Bunce DL 6-3 270 Richmond, Va./Henrico HS
Honorable mention All-Capital District pick as a senior…three-year starter and team captain…also played three different positions on offense during his career (tight end, fullback, center).

5. Joey Christine OL 6-3 300 Stephens City, Va./Sherando HS
First team all-state selection by the Virginia High School Coaches Association (VHSCA) on the offensive line and second team at defensive line… also first-team all-state (OL) by The Associated Press and Virginiapreps.com… also a two-way first-team All-Northwestern District pick and first-team All-Met by The Washington Post…rated the No. 53 recruit in the state according to The Roanoke Times…did not allow a sack his last two seasons, and helped Sherando rush for more than 3,000 yards his senior season…70 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks on defense as a senior.

6. Frank Clemmons LB 6-3 210 Chesapeake, Va./Indian River HS
Amassed 68 tackles, 27 for loss, as a senior at Indian River…helped the Braves reach the Eastern Region Division 5 championship game…played for an IRHS defense that ranked in the top 10 in the area in fewest points allowed and total defense…teammates with fellow NSU signee Terrence Pugh.

7. Marcus Cooperwood DB 5-10 180 Hampton, Va./Bethel HS
First-team All-Peninsula District at defensive back and wide receiver…also first-team Daily Press All-Star and second-team All-State Group AAA on defense…intercepted 11 passes as a senior, returning five for touchdowns…also caught 21 passes for 510 yards and four scores on offense…helped Bethel to a 10-2 record and a berth in the Eastern Region Division 6 semifinals.

8. Marquis Cuffee DB 5-10 175 Virginia Beach, Va./Kellam HS Second-team All-Beach District…posted approximately 60 tackles to go with two interceptions as a senior…also played some quarterback and running back on offense, averaging 12 yards per carry.

9. Theo Duncan OL 6-4 265 Ashland, Va./Patrick Henry HS
Three-year starter along the offensive line…named to the All-Colonial District team as a junior and senior…also all-district, all-region and all-state in the shot put

10. P.J. Hayden WR 5-11 175 Fredericksburg, Va./James Monroe HS
First-team All-Battlefield District and All-Region I at receiver, defensive back and kick returner as a senior…also a first-team All-State Group AA selection at kick returner by both the AP and Virginiapreps.com…second team all-state by the VHSCA at all three positions…had 2,302 yards receiving and 28 touchdowns in his three years on varsity…had 13 career interceptions and eight career return touchdowns…averaged better than 27 yards per kick return and 22 per punt return in his career.

11. Takeem Hedgeman RB 5-10 195 Charlottesville, Va./Monticello HS
Rushed for a Virginia High School League (VHSL) state record 51 touchdowns as a senior, leading Monticello to its first-ever state Group AA Division 3 title…ran for 2,891 yards in 14 games, the fourth-highest single-season mark in VHSL history…first-team All-Jefferson District, All-Region and All-State…Virginiapreps.com Group AA state player of the year…ran for a school-record 6,385 yards in his career, the 12th-most in state history.

12. Eric Hitch LB 6-1 230 Virginia Beach, Va./First Colonial HS
Played fullback and linebacker for the Patriots…honorable mention All-Beach District at running back his senior season…rushed for 315 yards on 50 carries (6.3 average)…scored five touchdowns (four rushing) and blocked for 1,000-yard rusher Tony Gregory, a Virginia Tech signee

13. Kenneth Johnson TE 6-5 250 Montross, Va./Washington & Lee HS
First-team All-Northern Neck District and All-Region A at offensive tackle…honorable mention all-state Group A…also plays basketball for W&L…former high school teammate of NSU receiver Jermaine Weldon.

14. Devon Lesesne OL 6-4 300 Washington, D.C./Ballou HS
First-team All-District of Columbia Intercollegiate Athletic Association East (DCIAA) East on the offensive line…two-way starter…also posted three sacks as a defensive lineman

15. Kendrick McClary TE 6-4 245 Chester, Va./L.C. Bird HS
Earned first-team Group AAA all-state, Richmond Times-Dispatch All-Metro and All-Dominion District honors as a senior…recorded 32 pancake blocks…had 15 receptions for 328 yards and two touchdowns…helped Bird finish 10 in the regular season and win the district title.

16. Blake Matthews OL 6-4 285 Manassas, Va./Osbourn HS
Second-team All-Cedar Run District on the offensive line and honorable mention all-district on the defensive line…helped Osbourn to the Group AAA Division 6 state title as a junior and to an appearance in the championship game as a senior…gave up just three sacks as a senior…posted 68 total tackles (45 solos) with nine tackles for loss and five sacks on defense.

17. Trent Porter LB 6-3 210 Dendron, Va./Surry County HS
First-team all-district, All-Region A and Group A All-State as a senior…tallied 115 tackles, recovered five fumbles and intercepted seven passes, three of which he returned for touchdowns.

18. Terrence Pugh LB 6-4 205 Chesapeake, Va./Indian River HS
First-team All-Southeastern District and All-Tidewater by the Virginian-Pilot on defense…also second-team all-district at offensive tackle…had 34 tackles for loss, 13 sacks and six forced fumbles…led Indian River to the Eastern Region Division 5 championship game.

19. Andre Purnell OL 6-5 290 Hampton, Va./Phoebus HS
Two-year starter for prep powerhouse Phoebus at right tackle…played on the Group AAA Division 5 state championship team as a junior…as a senior, blocked for the Peninsula District’s best offense, which averaged over 350 yards and nearly 40 points per game

20. Ricardo Volcin SS 6-2 200 Miami, Fla./North Miami Beach HS
First-team All-Dade County and second-team all-state by the Florida Sports Writers Association…recorded 73 tackles, 11 sacks and one interception from his linebacker position…also caught 16 passes for 307 yards and four TDs on offense

21. Tory Williams DL 6-4 250 Virginia Beach, Va./Bayside HS
A two-way starter on the offensive and defensive lines at Bayside…finished his senior season with 34 total tackles, 10 sacks and two forced fumbles…graded out at 89percent on his assignments on the offensive line

* - Denotes 4-year transfer currently enrolled at NSU for spring 2008 semester.

Howard University signs 21 to NLI

Photo: Carey Bailey, head football coach Howard University Bison

Coach Carey Bailey, who completed his first season as head coach, announced 21 recruits for the upcoming season. Howard signed seven offensive linemen, three defensive linemen, three running backs, three linebackers, one quarterback, two defensive backs and two wide receivers. The players are broken down geographically as South Carolina (6), Texas (3), Florida (2), Georgia (2), New York (2) and one each from New Jersey, Maryland, Washington, DC, Tennessee, Illinois and Ohio.

"Overall, I am pleased with the class we were able to bring in," said Bailey. "We were able to get a bunch of East Coast kids as well as some local kids. We have a combination of some older players from the JC's and other transfers who will help the maturation of some of the younger players."

Bison 2008 Signees

1. Aramide Adefemiwa DL 6-6 310 Commack, NY/Nassau CC
2. Jahmaine Rodriguez RB 5-10 190 Commack, NY/Nassau CC
3. Bruce Cabell S 6-0 190 Joliet, IL/Joliet JC
4. Davin Morris OL 6-4 315 Houston, TX/Yates HS
5.Quintin Powell WR 6-3 180 Houston, TX/Yates HS
6. Willie Carter WR 6-2 180 Denmark, SC/Denmark-Olar HS
7. Jeramen Bennette DL 6-4 280 St. Matthews, SC/Calhoun County HS
8. Kashin McElveen OL 6-4 320 Salters, SC/Denmark-Olar HS
9. DeAngelo Moody LB 6-3 225 Denmark, SC/Denmark-Olar HS
10. Terrell Hawkins OL 6-4 320 Temple Hills, MD/Friendly HS
11. D'Angelo Lucas OL 6-6 360 Washington, DC/H.D. Woodson HS
12. Brandon Drayton RB 5-9 170 Miami, FL/Northwestern HS
13. Terell Killings OL 6-4 290 Miami, FL/Northwestern HS
14. Jarad Dorsey QB 6-2 180 Ellenwood, GA/MLK Jr. HS
15. Glynn Jones LB 5-10 215 Kennesaw, GA/North Cobb HS
16. Keith Pough LB 6-2 220 Orangeburg, SC/Scotts Branch HS
17. DeCarlos Knight S 6-0 190 Nashville, TN/Pearl-Cohn HS
18. Ashton Wilder DL 6-4 290 Newark, NJ/Malcolm X Shabazz HS
19. Jarrett Ford OL 6-3 280 Cincinnati, OH/Harmony Community HS
20. Charles Brice RB 6-0 180 Columbia, SC/Keenan HS
21. Quindarole King OL 6-4 310 Texas City, TX/Lamarque HS

Bethune-Cookman signs 19 to NLI for football

Photo: Bethune Cookman University head football coach Alvin B. Wyatt

DAYTONA BEACH -- In Ronald Gaudin, Bethune-Cookman coach Alvin Wyatt saw his next great quarterback -- an athlete in the mold of Allen Suber or Pa'tell Troutman. Unfortunately, Gaudin didn't see it that way. Oh, he signed a letter-of-intent with B-CU on Wednesday. But the Miami Archbishop Curley product wants to play slotback in the Wildcats' triple-action offense. And who's Wyatt to quibble.

After signing the best group of skill players in his 11 years as head coach, Wyatt says Gaudin can play anywhere he wants."He's probably the best athlete we have on board," Wyatt said. "He has that burst of explosive speed. I wanted him to play quarterback, but he'll be just as dangerous at the slot."

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2008 WILDCATS SIGNEES

Name Pos. Ht. Wt. Cl. Hometown/High School

1. Morocko Blash RB 6-0 215 Fr. Dublin, Ga./West Laurens HS

2. James Brown FS 5-11 190 Fr. Miami, Fla./American HS

3, Kenio Brown OL 6-1 286 Fr. Miami, Fla./American HS

4. Jarvis Caffey DB 5-11 175 Fr. Atlanta, Ga./Grady HS

5. Maurice Francois QB 5-10 170 Fr. Palm Bay, Fla./Bayside HS

6. Ronald Gaudin QB/WR 5-10 175 Fr. Miami, Fla./Archbishop Curley

7. Miles Harris RB 6-2 222 Fr. Gainesville, Fla./Eastside HS

8. D.J. Howard DB 5-11 175 Fr. Port Orange, Fla./Spruce Creek HS

9. Richardo Hunter SAF 6-3 210 Fr. Rockledge, Fla./Rockledge HS

10. Kevin James WR 6-1 180 Fr. Tampa, Fla./Plant HS

11. Courtney Keith QB 5-11 175 Fr. Eustis, Fla./Eustis HS

12. Ryan Lewis ILB 6-1 210 Fr. Ft. Lauderdale, Fla./Blanche Ely HS

13.Jameel McCloud WR 6-3 180 Fr. Gainesville, Fla./Buchholz HS

14.Trey Mallory DB/SS 6-1 195 Fr. Jacksonville, Fla./First Coast HS

15.Jonathan Moment RB 5-10 220 Fr. Orlando, Fla./Lake Highland

16.Daniel C. Rhodes DB 5-11 185 Fr. Jacksonville, Fla./First Coast HS

17.Eugene Soloman DE 6-4 245 Fr. Savannah, Ga./Jenkins HS

18.Eli Sprenkel DT 6-0 275 Fr. Madison, Fla./Madison County HS

19.Cornelius Wheeler DL 6-1 245 Fr. Daytona Beach, Fla./Mainland

S.C. State Pough, Bulldogs happy with ‘Super’ signing day

Photo: South Carolina State University Bulldogs head football coach Oliver "Buddy" Pough.

Wednesday was a “Super” day for South Carolina State head football coach Oliver “Buddy” Pough -- and not solely for the signing of Shrine Bowl running back Lennel “Superman” Elmore. While beating out defending three-time Football Championship Subdivision national champion Appalachian State for the “Elite 11” standout was a coup on par with last year’s signing of “Mr. South Carolina Football” quarterback Malcolm Long, Pough was generally pleased with how this 16-member class fills various needs.

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S.C. State 2008 Magnificent 16

Name Pos. Ht. Wt. High School Hometown Facts

1. Lennel Elmore WR 6-0 185 Allendale-Fairfax Allendale, SC Shrine Bowl, All-State, Class A Player of the Year

2. Blake Erickson K 5-10 165 J.M Tate Pensacola, FL All-American Bowl Participant, All-State

3. Ronell Ferguson DL 6-3 245 Lincoln County Lincolnton, GA Augusta Chronicle Super 11, All-State, All-Area

4. Justin Garrick OL 6-2 285 Lower Richland Hopkins

5. Marquel Goodman DB 6-2 180 Irmo Irmo, SC

6. Garry Grace RB 6-0 225 Chattahoochee Atlanta, GA All-Fulton County North

7. Sam Hammond DL/OL 6-4 285 Union County Union, SC Shrine Bowl, Rivals Top 25, All-State, All-Region

8. Randall Hawkins WR 6-0 195 Brynes Duncan, SC All-State

9. Ronald Holiday QB 6-3 230 Douglass Atlanta, GA

10. Arnett James TE/DE 6-3 240 Pee Dee Academy Florence Shrine Bowl, All-SCISA

11. Yari King DB 5-9 170 Irmo Irmo, SC

12. Chris Merrill RB 5-9 185 Hillcrest Simpsonville All-Region, All-County, All-State (HSSR)

13. C.J Missick LB 5-11 190 Stratford Goose Creek North-South All-Star, All Low Country, All-Region

14. Larry Patterson OL 6-5 260 AC Flora Columbia, SC

15. Dyrell Porcha DL 6-4 280 Carver’s Bay Georgetown North-South All-Star, All-State

16. David Wiley QB 6-1 185 Richmond Cty Rockingham, NC Mid-Southeastern POTY

WSSU Football Inks 10 To National Letters Of Intent

Photo: WSSU Rams head football coach Kermit Blount.

WINSTON-SALEM, NC - The Winston-Salem State University football program announced the signing of 10 student-athletes to National Letters of Intent on 2008 signing day on Wednesday in what many have described as one of the most talent-laden classes in WSSU history. The Rams inked student-athletes from six states and the District of Columbia as WSSU signed three athletes from North Carolina, two from Virginia, one from Washington, D.C., and one athlete each from the states of Georgia, South Carolina, Alabama and Maryland.

WSSU 2008 Football Recruits

1. Cameron Demps,5'11/180, DB/PR,Suwanee, GA, Peachtree Ridge
2. Dallas McDaniel,6'3/325, OL/DL, Lynchburg, VA, Heritage
3. Darren Everette,6'4/205, LB, Murfreesboro, NC, Hertford County
4. Dominique Fitzgerald, 6'0/180, WR, Danville, VA, G. Wash. Danville
5. Branden Williams, 6'1/190, QB, Seale, AL, Glenwood
6. Akiem Smart, 6'4/260, DL, Fairfax, SC, Allendale-Fairfax
7. Eric Wiggins, 6'4/290, OL, Washington, D.C., Gonzaga College
8. David Luckett, 6'3/280,OL, Pomfret, MD, Maurice McDonough HS
9. Dave Harris, 6'3/245,DL,Charlotte, NC, West Mecklenburg
10. Lamar Whidbee, 6'3/260, DL, Hertford, NC, Perquimans County

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Late Start Doesn't Deter FAMU's Taylor

Photo: Joe Taylor, FAMU Rattlers head football coach.

TALLAHASSEE - New Florida A&M football coach Joe Taylor wrapped up his first National Signing Day as a Rattler on Wednesday, signing 12 new commitments to his new squad. "It was important to us to make sure that we build this thing from inside-out, meaning that we had to evaluate what was here. That was the biggest challenge, which is always ongoing."

Taylor said that signing only 12 players gives the Rattlers some extra scholarships for exceptional walk-on players, and leaves some scholarships open for any potential Division I-A transfers. "There's some people on this team right now that are not on scholarship that will probably deserve one after spring ball, which will fill out maybe six or seven more scholarships," Taylor said.

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North Carolina A&T signs 27 players for '08

Photo: NCA&T head football coach Lee Fobbs.

When you have the nation's longest losing streak (0-27), you need everything and it appears Coach Lee Forbes recruited like the future is now. The Aggies selected 27 incoming players with size and speed for the offensive and defensive lines.

Twenty-two of the 27 players are from the State of North Carolina, and only four are from the junior college ranks.

NCA&T 2008 Recruiting Class

Fernando White 5-9 165 WR Charlotte, NC (Independence)
Torrian Warren 6-3 175 WR Greensboro, NC (Dudley)
Derek Gould 6-4 185 WR Brownsville, NJ (Pemberton)
Donte Prince 6-3 195 WR Laurinburg, NC (Scotland Co.)
Dreyan Willis 6-1 195 WR Snow Hill, NC (Dean JUCO)
McKinley Morgan 6-2 175 WR Winston Salem, NC (Carver)
Justin Duhaney 5-11 180 RB Charlotte, NC (Victory Christian)
Michael Mayhew 5-10 185 RB Charlotte, NC (East Mecklenburg)
Darius Moore 6-0 190 RB Concord, NC (Central Cabarrus)
Carlton Fears 6-1 185 QB Stone Mountain, GA (Georgia Military)
Brent Walker 6-1 285 OL Durham, NC (Hillside)
Willie Pettiford 6-4 330 OL Roxboro, NC (Person)
Kimeko James 6-5 305 OL Winston Salem, NC (Parkland)
Isiah Holland 6-5 300 OL Wilson, NC (Fike)
Donald Pollock 6-7 370 OL Goldsboro, NC (Goldsboro)
Quay Long 5-10 170 DB Charlotte, NC (West Charlotte)
Justin Ferrell 5-10 180 DB Danville, VA (George Washington)
Louis Muldow 5-10 175 DB Greenville, NC (Rose)
Bobby Hedgepeth 6-3 235 LB Enfield, NC (Northwest Halifax)
Austin Bowden 6-3 235 LB Fayetteville, NC (E.E. Smith)
Aaron Bethea 6-1 285 DL Red Springs, NC (Red Springs)
Terry Davis 6-1 275 DL Bunn, NC (Bunn)
Micah Stanfield 6-2 285 DL Eden, NC (Morehead)
Brandon Young 6-2 260 DL Louisville, KY (Manuel)
Jarrell Herring 6-2 260 DL Detroit, MI (Grand Rapids CC)
Leviston Lewis 6-1 325 DL Charlotte, NC (Joliet CC)

Morgan State signs 23 football players on NSD

Photo: MSU Bears head football coach Donald Hill-Eley has reasons to smile with 23 outstanding recruits including Janary Gray--a Rivals.com 3-star ranked defensive player.

BALTIMORE, Md. – Morgan State University head football coach Donald Hill-Eley announced the signing of 23 high school and D-I transfers Wednesday afternoon on National Signing Day.

The 23 signees included six (6) linebackers, four (4) defensive backs, three (3) defensive ends, three (3) offensive lineman, three (3) wide receivers, three (3) quarterbacks and one (1) punter. The Bears signed 18 from high school and five (5) D-I transfers.

2008 National Letter of Intent Signees

1. Jerry Evans, OL, 6-2/300, Hodgson Vocational Tech, New Castle, DE. 2005 Honorable Mention; All Conference(DL); 2006 2nd Team All-Conference(DL); 2007 1st Team All-Conference(OL, DL);2007 2nd Team All-State(OT, DT); bench presses over 400 pounds.

2. Joshua Durden, OL, 6-1/295, Frederick Douglass HS, Atlanta, Ga.
Offensive Rookie of the Year; Defensive Rookie of the Year; All-City; 400 pound bench press.

3. Stanley Henry, OL, 6-3/290, DeMatha Catholic HS, Hyattsville, MD.
All Metro Conference.

4.Winfield Diggs, WR, 5-8/170, Friendship Collegiate, Oxon Hill, MD. 2007 All-Met Honorable Mention; 1st Team All-Independent League; 2008 Pigskin Club Winner

5. Marcos Archer, 6-0/180, Miramar HS, Miramar, FL

6. Delonte Williams, QB, 6-2/190, Friendship HS, Washington, DC. Passed for over 3,000 yards; Honorable Mention All-Met;and 1st Team All-Pigskin Team

6. Donavan Dickerson, QB, 6’2/190, Martin Luther King HS, Detroit, MI.
All-City; All-State; State Championship MVP; State Champs finished with 14-0 record.

7. Christopher Lloyd, LB, 6-1/225, Friendship Collegiate, Washington, D.C. Pigskin Award; All-Inner High; and 2nd Team All-Met.

8. Bakari Smith, LB, 6-0/250, Blanche Ely HS, Pompano Beach, FL. Sun Sentinel 1st Team All-County; North-South All-Star Game MVP; Broward vs. Dade County All-Star Game.

9. Edgar Pouncy, LB, 6-2/220, Martin Luther King HS, Detroit, MI. All-City…All-State; Most Outstanding Linebacker; State Champs;Honor roll; Rivals.com

10. Jarvis West, LB, 6-2/215, North Cobb HS, Kennesaw, GA. 1st Team All-County; Two-time Defensive Player of the Week; Rivals.com

11. Richard Ndubueze, LB, 6-2/215, DeMatha HS, Lanham, MD. 1st Team All-Conference; PG County Gazette; D.C. Sports Fan Team

12. Dominic Logan, DE, 6-5/230, Southside HS, Atlanta, GA. All-City; 12 sacks as a senior;All-City starter as a power forward on basketball team.

13. Christopher Eugene, DE, 6-4/215, Miami Central HS,Miami, FL. National Honor Society; Had 18 sacks; Rivals.com

14. Steven Timmons, DE, 6-2/225, Westside HS, Augusta, GA. Honorable Mention; Two-time Bone Crusher Player of the Week; Best Defensive Lineman; All-Area; on track team.

15. Steve Gallon, DB, 5-11/165, Miami Northwestern HS, Miami, FL USA Today National Champs; State Champs

16. Janary Gray, DB, 6-0/215, Miami Central HS, Miami, FL. Three stars on Rivals.com…All-Dade County; All-State

17. Nicholas Adams, Punter, 6-2/240, E.E. Smith HS – Fayetteville, N.C. Academic All-State; Honor Roll; North Carolina Scholars; No. 1 punter in North Carolina; Averaged 45 yards per punt; Benches over 400 pounds

Transfers:

18. Carlton Jackson, QB, 6-2/200, Univ. of Akron, Pompano Beach, FL

19. Edward Morton-Green, WR, 6-4/215, Miami of Ohio, Princeton HS - Cincinnati, OH

20. Joseph Ellis, SS, 6-1/200, Univ. of Illinois

21. Rodney Etienne, SS, 6-1/215, Univ. of Akron, Pompano Bch, FL

22. Reggie Hildenbrandt, CB 5-10/175, Hargrave Military, Roosevelt HS, PG County All-Star Game; 1st Team All-Conference.

Delaware State Lavan announces '08 recruiting class

Photo: Coach Al Lavan is expecting to improve upon the Hornets 10-2 record in 2008, with a talented group of incoming players.

Dover, DE – The Delaware State University football Coach Al Lavan announced the signing of 19 recruits and nine players who are enrolled for the 2008 spring semester that he feels is the best class since he took over the helm in 2004.

“This is the best group of kids we have brought in from top to bottom since I have been here,” said Coach Lavan.

Among the group are four junior college transfers and two Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) transfers. The recruiting class includes five defensive lineman, three offensive lineman, two quarterbacks, four wide receivers, four linebackers, five defensive backs, two tight ends, one running back and one long snapper.

Signed were:

1. Jahmel Bashir, TE, 6-3/250, Philadelphia, PA, South Phila. HS
2. Richard Bernard, LS, 6-2/240, Philadelphia, PA, Lackawan JC
3. Tristain Cappel* OL, 6-3/300, Washington, DC, St. John's HS
4. Zachutti Charles* WR, 5-11/185 Winter Haven, FL/Bowling Green U.
5. Lawrence Davis, OT, 6-3/285, Florence, SC, Wilson HS
6. Donnell Dixon* WR, 5-10/175, Hampton, VA, Phoebus HS
7. Nicholas Elko, QB, 6-2/200, Odenton, MD, Arundel HS
8. Anthony Glaud*, QB, 6-3/220,Sicklerville, NJ/Bowling Green U.
9. Avery Grant*, CB, 5-11/180, Brooklyn, NY/Nassau CC
10. Jamil Heath, LB, 6-1/235, Dover, DE/Dover HS
11. Jeffrey Hicks, FS, 6-2/200, Annapolis, MD, Broadneck HS
12. Carl Hinton, DE/TE, 6-5/235, Millsboro, DE/Sussex Central
13. Herman Hinton, SS, 6-2/205, Philadelphia, PA/W. Caholic HS
14. Keith Hunt, LB, 6-2/200, Patterson, NJ, JFKennedy HS
15. David Izebere, DT, 6-5/300, Springdale, MD/CH Flowers HS
16. Darius Jackson*, WR, 5-9/175, Quincy, FL, East Gadsden HS
17. Kristian Johnson, TE, 6-2/220, Lansdowne, PA/Monsignor Bonner HS
18. Stephen Johnson, LB, 6-1/235, Plantation, FL/Los Angeles Pierce College
19. Julian Lang, RB, 6-0/190, Sicklerville, NJ/Timber Creek HS
20. Byron Lewis, DE, 6-3/215, Virginia Bch, VA/Tallwood HS
21. Calvin Miner CB, 5-10/175, Sanford, FL/Lake Mary HS
22. Jermaine Morrison*, OL, 6-4/340, Brooklyn, NY/Nassau CC
23. Neal Muradymov*, OL, 6-7/300, Burtonsville, MD/Paint Branch HS
24. Aaron Richardson, DE, 6-2/220, Washington, DC/St. Johns Col. HS
25. Ernest Robinson, CB, 6-2/185, Cheltenham, MD, Gwynn Park HS
26. Marcus Span, LB, 6-1/200, Patterson, NJ/JF Kennedy HS
27. Travis Tarpley, WR, 5-9/180, Danville, VA/Geo. Washington HS
28. Thomas Threadgill* DL, 6-5/300, Frederick, MD/Frederick HS

*denotes currently enrolled at DSU for Spring 2008 Semester.

DSU finished 2007 as the MEAC Champions with no conference losses, and went to the first round of the FCS Playoffs where they were soundly beaten by the University of Delaware. The Hornets ended the season at 10-2 and are expected to defend the title vigorously with this talented group of newcomers to the conference.

Hampton University signs eight to football national letters of intent

HAMPTON, Va. – The Hampton University football program announced the signing of eight student-athletes to NCAA National Letters of Intent on the first day of the signing period on Wednesday. The Pirates signed student-athletes from five states, including Florida, Ohio, South Carolina, and Tennessee and Virginia.

1. John R. Carter, S, 5-10/200, Camden, SC/Feather River (Calif.)CC
2. Lamarcus Coker, RB,5-10/189, Nashville, Tenn./University of Tennessee
3. Darius Collins, TE, 6-4/250, Andrews, SC/Feather River CC
4. Lawrence Ferrell, FB, 5-10/230, Crewe, VA/Fort Union Military Academy
5. Keith-Sean Foster, TE, 6-3/235, Dayton, OH/Trotwood-Madison HS
6. Jalal Gee, DT, 6-4/297, Richmond, VA/John Marshall HS
7. Jeffrey Martin, LB, 6-3/240, Pembroke Pines, FL/Southwest (Miss.) CC
8. Davion Wright, OL, 6-6/320, Chester, SC/Feather River CC

Hampton continues to contend for first place in MEAC

Photo: Point guard Jordan Brooks, 5-9 freshman from C.H. Flowers H.S., Mitchellville, MD--in the heart of Prince George's County.

Hampton University's men's basketball team has established itself among the handful of teams vying for control of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference race. The Pirates (13-7, 7-1 MEAC) face another challenge when they play at Delaware State (8-12, 5-3) Saturday at 4 p.m. on ESPN2.

Winning road games at Norfolk State and North Carolina A&T left HU, which doesn't play at home again until Feb. 16, a half game behind first place Morgan State. HU's turnovers and poor free throw shooting have allowed some opponents to keep games close.

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Jackson State signs 3-star QB Dominick Britt

The Jackson State University Tigers have bagged a Rivals.com 3-star ranked dual-threat quarterback in Dominick Britt, who selected JSU over Michigan, Ohio State and a host of others. Britt said he did not want to be some one's second choice and feels very strongly about the JSU program. Please click below link for photo gallery and highlight videos on Britt:

http://footballrecruiting.rivals.com/viewprospect.asp?pr_key=55746

Coach Rick Comegy and staff have hit the mother load in recruiting this season and have signed the following players to the program. Jackson State plans to sign 24 players this year - the staff expects 18 to come from the high school ranks.

RB Bloi-Dei Dorzon, Lackawanna CC, 5-9, 205
DL Michael Dukes, NW Rankin, 6-3, 315
PK Jabril Smith, Calloway H.S., 6-0, 180
DL Terrance Onyiuke, Plainfield N.J., Lackawanna CC, 6-1, 290
DE Avon Waters, Atlanta, Southside HS,6-3, 260
DE Antonio Hardwick, Compton CC, 6-3, 270
QB Dedric McDonald, Morton HS, 6-5, 195, 6-5, 190
WR Carlos Everett, Webster, Fla., Hinds CC, 6-3, 190,
DL Jordan Gross, Long Beach Poly, 6-3, 310
ATH James Patterson, East MS CC, 6-3, 220
CB Jeffree Boone, Freedom HS, Orlando, 6-0, 180
QB Dominick Britt, Trotwood-Madison (OH), 6-5, 190

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It's been a long time since an HBCU signed a 3-star ranked quarterback as an incoming freshman. You gotta love the approach taken by the Jackson State football staff to not back-off highly ranked players that are FBC level talent. Great job JSU!

-beepbeep

Scottsboro RB excited about Alabama A&M

Johnson one of 34 players committed to Bulldogs.

The thought first crossed Trent Johnson's mind three years ago. After rushing for more than 1,000 yards as a sophomore at Scottsboro High, Johnson began to think he might earn a football scholarship. The 6-foot-1, 200-pounder ran around, through and away from tacklers with the Wildcats, finishing with 42 TDs and more than 3,800 yards rushing. Johnson averaged almost 117 yards per game during his final three seasons.

Johnson's dream of going to college will come true today when he is expected to sign a national letter of intent to play at Alabama A&M University. "I'm really excited," said Johnson, who is expected to sign during a ceremony at 9 a.m. at the school. "I had a great time on my visit. The players and coaches really bonded well. It was like a family environment. I figured I'd fit in good."

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S.C. State lands Superman--RB Lennell Elmore

Sources have informed the Orangeburg (S.C.) Times and Democrat newspaper that Allendale-Fairfax running back Lennell Elmore will announce his intention to sign with South Carolina State University Bulldogs this afternoon at 2 p.m. The 5'10, 160-pound Shrine Bowl selection chose SCSU over three-time Football Championship Sub-division champion Appalachian State University.

Elmore totaled over 4,500 all purpose yards as a running back and kick returner, the past two seasons. He is expected to join an incoming class of 15 players signed by SCSU later today.

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Superman Elmore is targeted to be used as a slot receiver by the Bulldogs.

Florida A&M University announce football signings

Florida A&M first day national letter of intent signings are as follows:

1. Joseph Hall, DE/T, 6-2/265, Metuchen, NJ
2. Corey Dawe, OG/OT, 6-3/275, Orlando Dr. Phillips
3. Lavontae Page, RB, 5-11/215, Douglas Ga.
4. Oye Ojo, FS/WR, 6-4/190, Florida High, Tallahassee,FL
5. Bryant Frazier, LB, 6-2/230, Meadowbrook HS, Chesterfield, Va.
6. Martin Ukpai, QB, 6-3/180, Fort Lauderdale High, Coral Spring, FL
7. Michael Greene, DB, 6-1/183, Lovejoy HS, Hampton, Ga.
8. Kevin Noble, LB, 6-3, 218, Burlington HS, Burlington, N.C.
9. Jerrell Steward, CB, 5-9/165, Deerfield Beach, FL
10. Nicardo Blake, K, 5-10/160 Boyd Anderson HS, Lauderdale Lakes, Florida
11. Derrick Warthen, CB/RB, 5-10/175, Boyd Anderson, Lauderdale Lakes FL
12. Sean Rush, SS, 6-1/203, Otay Ranch HS Chula Vista, California

Michael Greene is rated a two-star player by both both Rivals.com and Scout.com. Greene was a quarterback up until this season, when he was moved to safety. He had 60tackles this season after throwing for 925 yards and rushing for 404in 2006. He also finished second in the high jump in the Class AAAA state meet last spring with a jump of 6 feet, 6 inches.

Bryant Frazier, DL, Meadow brook: Monarchs' DE was Central District player of the year. Had 51 tackles, including 17 for losses and six sacks. Contributed two blocked kicks and 11 QB hurries.

Martin Ukpai is a dual threat quarterback that is rated 2-stars by Rival.com; Brantley and Greene are rated 2-starts, also.

Delaware State University Gives Canadian Student Major of Her Choice and Much More

Photo: Introducing Delaware State University Soccer player Savitre Bachoo, 5-6 playing the midfield position. The sophomore Nursing major is from Notre Dame Catholic School, Brampton, Ontario, Canada.

Savitre Bachoo chose Delaware State University and there is more than one reason why she did. “I viewed all the other schools that were also interested in me because of soccer and basically at Delaware State the atmosphere here on campus is awesome. Savitre is nineteen years old and in her second year at Delaware State.

She says for her, studying in the United States is a great learning experience. “I think it is not so much how important, but I think it is more of how great it is as a learning experience because in the United States as well as Canada too I can see that there is a lot more opportunities around you as long as you take advantage of it here, anywhere really, but with this is for me I think that there is a lot of things going on that you can always get yourself involved,” she says.

Going to college and playing soccer here is important for Savitre, but she says she also is mindful of having a job once she finishes. “Well, I am originally from Toronto, Canada and the reason why I decided to the United States was because I am on a soccer scholarship right now, but my whole goal in the future is I am a Nursing major and in terms of working in Canada as oppose to the United States, nurses make a lot more here,” she says.

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Delaware State signs Maryland All-State quarterback recruit

Photo: Quarterback Nick Elko, the Capital-Gazette Newspapers' Player of the Year, committed to Delaware State University of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference.

Elko attended a camp at Delaware State this past summer and caught the attention of the coaching staff. Assistant coach Ray Petty, who recruits the Anne Arundel County, Maryland area, kept tabs on Elko and formally offered a scholarship in October.

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Elko will join 19 other recruits and 9 transfers that are already enrolled at Delaware State for the 2008 class. DSU Coach Al Lavan also signed Football Bowl Championship transfer quarterback Anthony Glaud (Sicklerville, NJ), who played at Bowling Green State University of the Mid-American Conference.

Elko should not have to play right away with starting quarterback Vashon Winton returning for his senior year. However, he will need time to learn the complex DSU offense, how to read more FCS defenses and adjust to the speed of the game, especially against programs at Hampton University, Florida A&M, South Carolina State, Bethune Cookman and Norfolk State that have some of the fastest defensive players in the conference.

Hopefully, Coach Lavan can develop Elko to be a solid 1-AA level quarterback in a highly competitive league. You never know how these young kids will grow when they step up in competition. Elko has a great foundation but will have to work extremely hard to become the type of championship player expected at DSU. But more importantly, he will be surrounded by the best talent we have seen recruited at Delaware State during the Lavan era.

-beepbeep

Nike Elko #12--- Maryland 2007 4A Championship Game Highlights: http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid1185218742?bctid=1336721443

Maryland State Public School Records set by Elko and his team.

Team
Most Passing Yards, Season: 3,251 – Arundel, 2007
Most Passed Attempted, Season: 456 – Arundel, 2007
Most Passes Completed, Season: 277 – Arundel, 2007

Individual
Most Total Offensive Yards, Season: 3,933 – Nick Elko, 2007
Most Passing Yards, Season: 3,091 – Nick Elko, 2007
Most Passes Attempted, Season: 430 – Nick Elko, 2007
Most Passes Completed, Season: 260 – Nick Elko, 2007
Most TD passes, Season: 43 – Nick Elko, 2007
Most Receptions, Season: 103 – Brandon Johnson-Farrell, 2007
Receiving Yards, Season: 1,394 -- Brandon Johnson-Farrell, 2007
Most Receiving TD’s, Season: 23 -- Brandon Johnson-Farrell, 2007
Most Receptions, Career: 174 – Brandon Johnson-Farrell, 2005-2007

AA&MU starting to find groove at expense of Texas Southern

Photo: AAMU Student Dawg Pound Section ready to cheer on the Bulldogs.

Bulldogs beat Texas Southern 73-65 for third straight win.

Alabama A&M, which has struggled at home in Southwestern Athletic Conference play this season, was having its way against Texas Southern on Monday night. The Bulldogs, who led by 11 at intermission, opened the second half with an 8-2 run to take their largest lead of the game. However, like it has in so many games this season, A&M let an opponent back in the game. Matthew Miller's 3-pointer with just over five minutes left to play pulled Texas Southern within two.

6-11/205 senior forward Mickell Gladness, who scored in double figures for the sixth game in a row, finishing with 19 points, 13 rebounds and eight blocks.

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