Big 12: Jamal Turner
What's NU's future recruiting in Texas hold?
July, 5, 2011
7/05/11
9:00
AM ET
By
David Ubben | ESPN.com
Nebraska officially left the Big 12 on Friday, but in many ways it may still resemble a Big 12 team. Earlier this year, among the top 75 players in the state of Texas, according to ESPNU, just two signed with schools (Iowa, Michigan) that played the 2010 season in the Big Ten.
But four more -- including three in the top 15 in the state and ESPNU 150 members -- signed with Nebraska. Those three were Nebraska's top three recruits, and five members of the 20-signee class, hailed from Texas.
The Huskers' future recruiting in Texas, where every team in the Big 12 must recruit, as a member of the Big Ten, is a point of debate, but a point with wide-ranging effects for the rest of the Big 12.
I sat down with ESPN's national recruiting director, Tom Luginbill (you can follow him on Twitter at @TomLuginbill), to get his take on the changing landscape of recruiting in the state of Texas.
You look at Nebraska's class last year, they came in and got guys like Aaron Green (the nation's No. 3 running back) and Charles Jackson (the No. 5 cornerback) down in Texas; very elite guys.
And Jamal Turner (the nation's No. 6 athlete). Jamal Turner might be the best one.
True. It looks like he's going to play receiver for them. But you look at this year's class so far, and those kinds of guys aren't there. They've got five commits so far, a small class for now, without any commits from Texas. Do you see this being more of the case moving forward for Nebraska as a member of the Big Ten?
Possibly. And keep this in mind: The fact that they're moving to the Big Ten is more than just the prospect in Texas. So many of those families, they want to be able to see their kids play. And unless there's a home game in Nebraska, they're not going to be able to see many road games. And so the proximity is somewhat similar to TCU moving into the Big East. You're recruiting Texas kids and going to the Big East, but your family's really not going to get to see you play much unless it's at home.
So with Nebraska, obviously it's not in Texas, but it's in close proximity, so I think time will tell. I do believe that there could be some effect there. I don't know how significant. But I don't think it has so much to do with the conference affiliation as much as it does the proximity of games.
Yeah, exactly. And there's been quite a bit of debate on our blog and in other places about what that effect will be. What do you think Nebraska recruiting in Texas will look like in five years?
I still believe they will have a strong contingency in Texas. In my opinion, if you look at the teams who are currently in the Big 12. When it was broken up into the North and South, all of the North teams were always behind the 8-ball, because none of those teams resided in a state with a high population or enrollment of quality prospects. So they all had to go into Texas' backyard and A&M and Texas Tech to get players.
Well, just because Nebraska has moved into the Big Ten, that isn't going to change that. They're still going to have to go into Texas. They're going to have to have strong ties in Texas because they don't have enough athletes within their own states and surrounding states to make up for it. So, I think you'll still see a strong presence from them, but I wouldn't be surprised, too, if you start seeing them popping up in Ohio and Pennsylvania and showing up there more. Because, remember, Bo Pelini is from Ohio. So, I think there will be some ties there where maybe if they're not having as much success in Texas as maybe they've had in the past 25 years, maybe what you'll see is them supplementing that in the Midwest with some kids that already identify within the conference.
But four more -- including three in the top 15 in the state and ESPNU 150 members -- signed with Nebraska. Those three were Nebraska's top three recruits, and five members of the 20-signee class, hailed from Texas.
The Huskers' future recruiting in Texas, where every team in the Big 12 must recruit, as a member of the Big Ten, is a point of debate, but a point with wide-ranging effects for the rest of the Big 12.
I sat down with ESPN's national recruiting director, Tom Luginbill (you can follow him on Twitter at @TomLuginbill), to get his take on the changing landscape of recruiting in the state of Texas.
You look at Nebraska's class last year, they came in and got guys like Aaron Green (the nation's No. 3 running back) and Charles Jackson (the No. 5 cornerback) down in Texas; very elite guys.
And Jamal Turner (the nation's No. 6 athlete). Jamal Turner might be the best one.
True. It looks like he's going to play receiver for them. But you look at this year's class so far, and those kinds of guys aren't there. They've got five commits so far, a small class for now, without any commits from Texas. Do you see this being more of the case moving forward for Nebraska as a member of the Big Ten?
Possibly. And keep this in mind: The fact that they're moving to the Big Ten is more than just the prospect in Texas. So many of those families, they want to be able to see their kids play. And unless there's a home game in Nebraska, they're not going to be able to see many road games. And so the proximity is somewhat similar to TCU moving into the Big East. You're recruiting Texas kids and going to the Big East, but your family's really not going to get to see you play much unless it's at home.
So with Nebraska, obviously it's not in Texas, but it's in close proximity, so I think time will tell. I do believe that there could be some effect there. I don't know how significant. But I don't think it has so much to do with the conference affiliation as much as it does the proximity of games.
Yeah, exactly. And there's been quite a bit of debate on our blog and in other places about what that effect will be. What do you think Nebraska recruiting in Texas will look like in five years?
I still believe they will have a strong contingency in Texas. In my opinion, if you look at the teams who are currently in the Big 12. When it was broken up into the North and South, all of the North teams were always behind the 8-ball, because none of those teams resided in a state with a high population or enrollment of quality prospects. So they all had to go into Texas' backyard and A&M and Texas Tech to get players.
Well, just because Nebraska has moved into the Big Ten, that isn't going to change that. They're still going to have to go into Texas. They're going to have to have strong ties in Texas because they don't have enough athletes within their own states and surrounding states to make up for it. So, I think you'll still see a strong presence from them, but I wouldn't be surprised, too, if you start seeing them popping up in Ohio and Pennsylvania and showing up there more. Because, remember, Bo Pelini is from Ohio. So, I think there will be some ties there where maybe if they're not having as much success in Texas as maybe they've had in the past 25 years, maybe what you'll see is them supplementing that in the Midwest with some kids that already identify within the conference.
Q&A: Ubben on Nebraska's Big Ten move
February, 10, 2011
2/10/11
9:00
AM ET
By
Adam Rittenberg | ESPN.com
Nebraska is officially part of the Big Ten blog, and the welcome wagon hasn't stopped rolling.
To help us learn more about the Huskers, I've reached out to colleague David Ubben from the Big 12 blog. David knows all about Big Red and covered Nebraska during its transition from the Big 12 to the Big Ten. After being nice enough to hand off the Huskers -- actually, I had to pry them from his hands -- Ubben took some time to talk about the Big Ten's newest member.
Let's go back to June 11. What was your initial reaction to Nebraska leaving the Big 12 for the Big Ten?
David Ubben: Ha, well it was certainly an unpopular one among the Nebraska supporters. I thought it was a great move for the university and the football program, but a huge, huge blow to the future stability of the Big 12.
In short, I equated Nebraska leaving to pulling the pin on the Texas Grenade that would blow up the Big 12.
Obviously, that's not what ended up happening, and for a fan base that since June has despised all things Big 12, I was surprised at how much the Huskers didn't want to be blamed for the Big 12's demise. One would think they would relish in it.
At the core, I think there was some fear from fans that their Huskers might be villainized as a program for the self-serving move, but that's not at all what happened to Arkansas, who certainly did much of the same thing to the Southwest Conference when it left for the SEC.
Back to your original question, though, Nebraska leaving definitely meant a weaker Big 12 if it continued to exist moving forward, and anyone who wants to try to argue otherwise is kidding themselves. Nebraska did what it needed to do: secure infinitely more stability and a good amount of cash with a move to the Big Ten, as well as the academic prestige that comes with, to borrow a phrase from deservedly maligned Missouri governor Jay Nixon, aligning themselves with Northwestern and Wisconsin rather than Texas Tech and Oklahoma State.
Yeah, anytime a school wants to upgrade its league, it should remember Mizzou and do exactly the opposite. But back to Nebraska. People know about the national championships, Dr. Tom and the option offense. What should Big Ten fans know about the current Nebraska program and its fan base as the Huskers transition to the conference?
DU: Nebraska's biggest asset is its fan base. People like to knock Huskers fans for being a bit full of themselves, but they have reason to be. They're going to rival any team in the Big Ten when it comes to traveling for road games. Prepare yourselves for a sea of red in your stadiums when Nebraska comes.
One big reason? It might be tougher to get a ticket to see the Huskers in Lincoln. Every single home game has been sold out since Nov. 3, 1962, a streak of 311 games. That's an NCAA record, of course. The ones who do make it into Memorial Stadium on fall Saturdays enter under permanent signs that read "Through these gates pass the Greatest Fans in College Football."
Is it obnoxious? Yes. Will it turn off a few opposing fans? Most definitely.
But I would argue that it's not inaccurate.
Husker fans are voracious supporters. They love their team. They know their team. They read about and are opinionated about their team. They spend money on their team. Any other fan base should admire at least that much. Because of that devotion, among other things, the program is one of college football's blue bloods and is able to make a big move that will benefit the program tremendously.
Let's talk about the team itself. Bo Pelini is an Ohio guy, and his track record on defense speaks for itself. Nebraska has seemed more up and down on the offensive side. How do you see the Huskers' style translating to the Big Ten?
DU: That's presuming Nebraska has an offensive style. Nebraska was all about the run early in the year, and ran over and around just about everybody in the first half of the season. Since no one could stop it, they didn't have to throw much, and when they did, they were so, so dangerous.
But the offense slowed late in the season, and I thought they relied on Taylor Martinez to simply drop back and pass way too often and didn't run the zone read enough.
The latest word from Nebraska's recruits is they want an offense that most closely resembles Oregon's, likely minus the dizzying tempo. Offensive coordinator Shawn Watson would describe his offense as a bit of a hybrid between Oregon's offense and the West Coast passing attack, but he looks like he's on his way out.
I'm a big believer that you have to do what suits your personnel, and with a zone-read whiz like Martinez and quality running backs like Nebraska has, it would seem that's a good fit.
On the whole, though, Martinez has to continue to develop as a passer to really give the best defenses trouble. How much of that happens over the next three years will determine how successful they ultimately are. If he can't do it, there's nothing saying he's guaranteed to be the starter above incoming freshmen Bubba Starling (if he stays with football and doesn't sign an MLB contract) and Jamal Turner. Even Cody Green, who played when Martinez was injured this year, could earn some quality snaps if Martinez struggles as a sophomore.
Wow, sounds like we could soon have a QB controversy. Interesting. What do you think will be the biggest adjustments for Nebraska in transitioning from the Big 12 to the Big Ten?
DU: I'm a big believer in Pelini as a defensive coach, so I think they'll be able to make these adjustments eventually, but they're going to have to change the type of players they recruit defensively. You need so many defensive backs (and good ones) to have success in the Big 12, and winning the line of scrimmage will put you over the top, but teams like Missouri and Texas Tech have had success in the league without doing it on a consistent basis.
The Big Ten is all about the beef up front. The Huskers are big and fast on the defensive line with guys like Jared Crick and Baker Steinkuhler. I don't see many problems there.
Nebraska's best linebacker this year, Lavonte David, made a Big 12-best 152 tackles. He also happens to be 210 pounds. Players like him, while they're incredibly valuable in the Big 12 for their ability to make plays in coverage and provide a speed rush, will be marginalized in Nebraska's future for bigger, run-stopping linebackers.
There will be all kinds of things that will have to change, but the type of defensive personnel will be No. 1 on the list. Specifically, Nebraska will need more, bigger linebackers and fewer defensive backs.
Nebraska always has recruited so well in the state of Texas. How do you think the move to the Big Ten will impact Nebraska's recruiting strategy?
DU: Oh, what a contentious question. So, so much disagreement on this issue.
I don't think there will be a time when Nebraska just has no one from Texas, but their success in the state will take a considerable hit with the move. I do believe the Huskers should continue to recruit the state, but I also think they need to take some of those efforts and resources previously allocated toward Texas and use them to start scraping the Rust Belt and compete with their new conference mates, rather than their old ones.
Pelini knows the area well, and I think the Huskers will have some success doing it. They had a huge year in 2011 in Texas, getting three top-tier, ESPNU 150 players in ATH/QB Jamal Turner, RB Aaron Green and CB Charles Jackson.
I do believe they can keep getting some talent like that in 2012 and 2013, but as recruits and their families really realize what life is like as a parent of a Texas kid playing in the Big Ten, they'll realize why so few Texas recruits elect to play in the Big Ten. I talked with Texas Tech coach Tommy Tuberville about this issue last week actually, and he said for most families, it's a huge deal. Watching on TV simply isn't the same thing as going to games, home or away. And the facts are, a lot of families can't afford to fly to a ton of games.
Nebraska traditionally only played one or two games in Texas during a season, three if they made the Big 12 title game and it was in Texas. That doesn't sound like many, but look at it this way, unless you can pay for a flight or make a ridiculously long drive, you're talking about going four or five months without seeing your son versus around two or fewer if they play games in Texas.
So in short, I don't think there will be a time when Nebraska absolutely can't recruit in Texas, but they need to take advantage of their new opportunities in Ohio and Michigan, too, as compensation for the guys who won't want to play up North.
OK, you're on the spot. How do the Huskers fare in Year 1 in the Big Ten, which has already branded them a legendary team in the Legends division?
DU: The Big Ten certainly didn't do them any favors with their first-year schedule, booking them for trips to Wisconsin, Penn State and Michigan. Hosting Iowa, Michigan State and Ohio State is going to be tough, and they have to play the Buckeyes in the first game with their five suspended players back. Who knows what happens there?
With a still-maturing passer who won't have a ton of help at receiver, they'll have some struggles offensively, but they should be solid again on the defensive end.
I'll say 9-3 or 8-4. Short of what you might call a Legendary season, but certainly a good one.
Thanks to David for his time, and stay tuned as we'll both have more on Nebraska's move to the Big Ten.
To help us learn more about the Huskers, I've reached out to colleague David Ubben from the Big 12 blog. David knows all about Big Red and covered Nebraska during its transition from the Big 12 to the Big Ten. After being nice enough to hand off the Huskers -- actually, I had to pry them from his hands -- Ubben took some time to talk about the Big Ten's newest member.
Let's go back to June 11. What was your initial reaction to Nebraska leaving the Big 12 for the Big Ten?
David Ubben: Ha, well it was certainly an unpopular one among the Nebraska supporters. I thought it was a great move for the university and the football program, but a huge, huge blow to the future stability of the Big 12.
In short, I equated Nebraska leaving to pulling the pin on the Texas Grenade that would blow up the Big 12.
Obviously, that's not what ended up happening, and for a fan base that since June has despised all things Big 12, I was surprised at how much the Huskers didn't want to be blamed for the Big 12's demise. One would think they would relish in it.
At the core, I think there was some fear from fans that their Huskers might be villainized as a program for the self-serving move, but that's not at all what happened to Arkansas, who certainly did much of the same thing to the Southwest Conference when it left for the SEC.
Back to your original question, though, Nebraska leaving definitely meant a weaker Big 12 if it continued to exist moving forward, and anyone who wants to try to argue otherwise is kidding themselves. Nebraska did what it needed to do: secure infinitely more stability and a good amount of cash with a move to the Big Ten, as well as the academic prestige that comes with, to borrow a phrase from deservedly maligned Missouri governor Jay Nixon, aligning themselves with Northwestern and Wisconsin rather than Texas Tech and Oklahoma State.
Yeah, anytime a school wants to upgrade its league, it should remember Mizzou and do exactly the opposite. But back to Nebraska. People know about the national championships, Dr. Tom and the option offense. What should Big Ten fans know about the current Nebraska program and its fan base as the Huskers transition to the conference?
[+] Enlarge
Eric Francis/Getty ImagesNebraska's Memorial Stadium has been sold out for every single home game since Nov. 3, 1962.
Eric Francis/Getty ImagesNebraska's Memorial Stadium has been sold out for every single home game since Nov. 3, 1962.One big reason? It might be tougher to get a ticket to see the Huskers in Lincoln. Every single home game has been sold out since Nov. 3, 1962, a streak of 311 games. That's an NCAA record, of course. The ones who do make it into Memorial Stadium on fall Saturdays enter under permanent signs that read "Through these gates pass the Greatest Fans in College Football."
Is it obnoxious? Yes. Will it turn off a few opposing fans? Most definitely.
But I would argue that it's not inaccurate.
Husker fans are voracious supporters. They love their team. They know their team. They read about and are opinionated about their team. They spend money on their team. Any other fan base should admire at least that much. Because of that devotion, among other things, the program is one of college football's blue bloods and is able to make a big move that will benefit the program tremendously.
Let's talk about the team itself. Bo Pelini is an Ohio guy, and his track record on defense speaks for itself. Nebraska has seemed more up and down on the offensive side. How do you see the Huskers' style translating to the Big Ten?
DU: That's presuming Nebraska has an offensive style. Nebraska was all about the run early in the year, and ran over and around just about everybody in the first half of the season. Since no one could stop it, they didn't have to throw much, and when they did, they were so, so dangerous.
But the offense slowed late in the season, and I thought they relied on Taylor Martinez to simply drop back and pass way too often and didn't run the zone read enough.
The latest word from Nebraska's recruits is they want an offense that most closely resembles Oregon's, likely minus the dizzying tempo. Offensive coordinator Shawn Watson would describe his offense as a bit of a hybrid between Oregon's offense and the West Coast passing attack, but he looks like he's on his way out.
I'm a big believer that you have to do what suits your personnel, and with a zone-read whiz like Martinez and quality running backs like Nebraska has, it would seem that's a good fit.
On the whole, though, Martinez has to continue to develop as a passer to really give the best defenses trouble. How much of that happens over the next three years will determine how successful they ultimately are. If he can't do it, there's nothing saying he's guaranteed to be the starter above incoming freshmen Bubba Starling (if he stays with football and doesn't sign an MLB contract) and Jamal Turner. Even Cody Green, who played when Martinez was injured this year, could earn some quality snaps if Martinez struggles as a sophomore.
Wow, sounds like we could soon have a QB controversy. Interesting. What do you think will be the biggest adjustments for Nebraska in transitioning from the Big 12 to the Big Ten?
DU: I'm a big believer in Pelini as a defensive coach, so I think they'll be able to make these adjustments eventually, but they're going to have to change the type of players they recruit defensively. You need so many defensive backs (and good ones) to have success in the Big 12, and winning the line of scrimmage will put you over the top, but teams like Missouri and Texas Tech have had success in the league without doing it on a consistent basis.
The Big Ten is all about the beef up front. The Huskers are big and fast on the defensive line with guys like Jared Crick and Baker Steinkuhler. I don't see many problems there.
Nebraska's best linebacker this year, Lavonte David, made a Big 12-best 152 tackles. He also happens to be 210 pounds. Players like him, while they're incredibly valuable in the Big 12 for their ability to make plays in coverage and provide a speed rush, will be marginalized in Nebraska's future for bigger, run-stopping linebackers.
There will be all kinds of things that will have to change, but the type of defensive personnel will be No. 1 on the list. Specifically, Nebraska will need more, bigger linebackers and fewer defensive backs.
Nebraska always has recruited so well in the state of Texas. How do you think the move to the Big Ten will impact Nebraska's recruiting strategy?
[+] Enlarge
Cliff Welch/Icon SMI Now that it's left the Big 12, Nebraska will have more difficulty luring elite Texas high school players like Jamal Turner.
Cliff Welch/Icon SMI Now that it's left the Big 12, Nebraska will have more difficulty luring elite Texas high school players like Jamal Turner.I don't think there will be a time when Nebraska just has no one from Texas, but their success in the state will take a considerable hit with the move. I do believe the Huskers should continue to recruit the state, but I also think they need to take some of those efforts and resources previously allocated toward Texas and use them to start scraping the Rust Belt and compete with their new conference mates, rather than their old ones.
Pelini knows the area well, and I think the Huskers will have some success doing it. They had a huge year in 2011 in Texas, getting three top-tier, ESPNU 150 players in ATH/QB Jamal Turner, RB Aaron Green and CB Charles Jackson.
I do believe they can keep getting some talent like that in 2012 and 2013, but as recruits and their families really realize what life is like as a parent of a Texas kid playing in the Big Ten, they'll realize why so few Texas recruits elect to play in the Big Ten. I talked with Texas Tech coach Tommy Tuberville about this issue last week actually, and he said for most families, it's a huge deal. Watching on TV simply isn't the same thing as going to games, home or away. And the facts are, a lot of families can't afford to fly to a ton of games.
Nebraska traditionally only played one or two games in Texas during a season, three if they made the Big 12 title game and it was in Texas. That doesn't sound like many, but look at it this way, unless you can pay for a flight or make a ridiculously long drive, you're talking about going four or five months without seeing your son versus around two or fewer if they play games in Texas.
So in short, I don't think there will be a time when Nebraska absolutely can't recruit in Texas, but they need to take advantage of their new opportunities in Ohio and Michigan, too, as compensation for the guys who won't want to play up North.
OK, you're on the spot. How do the Huskers fare in Year 1 in the Big Ten, which has already branded them a legendary team in the Legends division?
DU: The Big Ten certainly didn't do them any favors with their first-year schedule, booking them for trips to Wisconsin, Penn State and Michigan. Hosting Iowa, Michigan State and Ohio State is going to be tough, and they have to play the Buckeyes in the first game with their five suspended players back. Who knows what happens there?
With a still-maturing passer who won't have a ton of help at receiver, they'll have some struggles offensively, but they should be solid again on the defensive end.
I'll say 9-3 or 8-4. Short of what you might call a Legendary season, but certainly a good one.
Thanks to David for his time, and stay tuned as we'll both have more on Nebraska's move to the Big Ten.
Tracking Big 12 ESPNU 150 signees: 2011
February, 2, 2011
2/02/11
4:00
PM ET
By
David Ubben | ESPN.com
We've taken a look the past few days at what's happened to the best recruits across the Big 12 the past four years. Here's a refresher:
And signing day has arrived, so here's who'll begin their career with plenty of hype and expectation next fall.
No. 7: Malcolm Brown, RB, Texas
No. 11: Aaron Green, RB, Nebraska
No. 21: Quandre Diggs, CB, Texas
No. 31: Desmond Jackson, DT, Texas
No. 35: Brandon Williams, RB, Oklahoma
No. 50: Jamal Turner, ATH, Nebraska (QB)
No. 51: Trey Metoyer, WR, Oklahoma
No. 55: Steve Edmond, LB, Texas
No. 64: Danzel Williams, ATH, Oklahoma
No. 87: Josh Turner, ATH, Texas
No. 93: Sedrick Flowers, OG, Texas
No. 101: Nathan Hughes, DE, Oklahoma
No. 103: Jordan Wade, DT, Oklahoma
No. 109: Charles Jackson, CB, Nebraska
No. 115: Bubba Starling, QB, Nebraska
No. 119: Jordan Phillips, DT, Oklahoma
No. 124: Herschel Sims, RB, Oklahoma State
No. 133: Leroy Scott, CB, Texas
Nobody knows how any of these players' careers will play out, but as we've seen in the past, there might be some guys from this group who never see this field, and there might be a Heisman winner. Right now, you never know.
I learned quite a bit in going over the past five years in recruiting across the Big 12, so I'll have some thoughts and observations later this week from what I saw from the ESPNU 150 from 2006-11.
- Big 12 signees in the 2006 ESPNU 150
- Big 12 signees in the 2007 ESPNU 150
- Big 12 signees in the 2008 ESPNU 150
- Big 12 signees in the 2009 ESPNU 150
- Big 12 signees in the 2010 ESPNU 150
And signing day has arrived, so here's who'll begin their career with plenty of hype and expectation next fall.
No. 7: Malcolm Brown, RB, Texas
No. 11: Aaron Green, RB, Nebraska
No. 21: Quandre Diggs, CB, Texas
No. 31: Desmond Jackson, DT, Texas
No. 35: Brandon Williams, RB, Oklahoma
No. 50: Jamal Turner, ATH, Nebraska (QB)
No. 51: Trey Metoyer, WR, Oklahoma
No. 55: Steve Edmond, LB, Texas
No. 64: Danzel Williams, ATH, Oklahoma
No. 87: Josh Turner, ATH, Texas
No. 93: Sedrick Flowers, OG, Texas
No. 101: Nathan Hughes, DE, Oklahoma
No. 103: Jordan Wade, DT, Oklahoma
No. 109: Charles Jackson, CB, Nebraska
No. 115: Bubba Starling, QB, Nebraska
No. 119: Jordan Phillips, DT, Oklahoma
No. 124: Herschel Sims, RB, Oklahoma State
No. 133: Leroy Scott, CB, Texas
Nobody knows how any of these players' careers will play out, but as we've seen in the past, there might be some guys from this group who never see this field, and there might be a Heisman winner. Right now, you never know.
I learned quite a bit in going over the past five years in recruiting across the Big 12, so I'll have some thoughts and observations later this week from what I saw from the ESPNU 150 from 2006-11.
Get a look at the Big 12's future tonight
January, 5, 2011
1/05/11
4:45
PM ET
By
David Ubben | ESPN.com
For the first time since Dec. 17, there won't be a bowl game on television tonight. That doesn't mean there won't be football.
The Under Armour All-American will be on ESPN tonight at 7 p.m. ET, and there's plenty of talent taking the field that you'll see in the Big 12 next year. Here's an overview of commits to keep an eye on that plan to sign with their respective schools in February.
The game will be played at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Fla.
Nebraska (Yes, I know he'll never play in the Big 12. But we're still covering them here.)
The Under Armour All-American will be on ESPN tonight at 7 p.m. ET, and there's plenty of talent taking the field that you'll see in the Big 12 next year. Here's an overview of commits to keep an eye on that plan to sign with their respective schools in February.
The game will be played at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Fla.
Nebraska (Yes, I know he'll never play in the Big 12. But we're still covering them here.)
- Jamal Turner, QB
- Kendal Thompson, QB
- Nathan Hughes, DE
- Jordan Phillips, DT
- Brandon Williams, RB
- Danzel Williams, ATH
- Quandre Diggs, CB
- Desmond Jackson, DT
- Josh Turner, WR/ATH
- Christian Westerman, OL
- Taylor Bertolet, K
- Le'Raven Clark, OT
Andy, look, all I know is that if I was a girl, and I had to choose between the tall dude who loved Asia, and the you looking dude who loves sweaters and wearing sweaters ... I'd choose you.
- New Kansas athletic director Sheahon Zenger's top three priorities should all be improving football, writes Blair Kerkhoff of the Kansas City Star.
- Kellis Robinett of the Wichita Eagle pegs his best and worst of 2010 for Kansas State football.
- By not inviting TCU to join the conference, the Big 12 proved it was shortsighted and not looking to thrive long term, writes Berry Tramel of The Oklahoman.
- Is Mike Leach a legitimate candidate for Oklahoma State's new offensive coordinator? Bill Haisten of the Tulsa World examines the question.
- Leach told the Associated Press that he doesn't believe his pending lawsuits are preventing him from landing a job.
- Mitch Sherman of the Omaha World-Herald takes a look at Jamal Turner, one of Nebraska's two incoming quarterbacks for 2011.
- Justin Harper of The Oklahoman does the same for the Sooners. Kendal Thompson will enroll early at Oklahoma.
- Texas A&M linebacker Von Miller explains to Chuck Carlton of the Dallas Morning News how he shook off a slow start to rebound and win the Butkus Award.
- Former Missouri quarterback Blaine Gabbert has officially signed with an agent.
- New Colorado Jon Embree coach won't be taking the same national approach to recruiting as former coach Dan Hawkins, writes Kyle Ringo of the Boulder Daily Camera. He wants to focus westward.
Mailbag: System QBs, Heismans and Horns
September, 10, 2010
9/10/10
2:30
PM ET
By
David Ubben | ESPN.com
Good stuff this week, fans. Thanks for all the questions. Let's do it again sometime.
Jenny in College Station, Texas asks: DU, love your blog. My parents are die hard Aggies but I love the Huskers. Do you know if he is single? Also do you think the Aggies will have something to fear when NU comes to town to play the aggies with a mobile QB or do you think they possibly have seen everything they have from Jerrod Johnson who is also a mobile QB and better prepared?
David Ubben: Ha, couldn't shed any light on Jerrod's relationship status. Never came up in my recent visit to College Station, as opposed to when I stopped by Baylor to spend a day with Robert Griffin.
But to your main point, I wouldn't expect Nebraska to be shocked by anything they see, especially when it comes to mobile quarterbacks. The two most mobile guys they faced last year, Tyrod Taylor and Colt McCoy, had awful days when they played the Huskers, but Nebraska still lost both games -- by a point in the final 30 seconds of each game. Taylor completed less than 50 percent of his passes and McCoy threw three interceptions and no touchdowns. Having a guy that can make plays if things break down is nothing new for the Blackshirts.
Scott Anderson in Manhattan, Kan. asks: David, why no love for Daniel Thomas in your Heisman talk? is it because he doesn't have OU on the side of his helmet? and how could you of put kendall hunter on that list but not DT when we all know KSU played a far more difficult opponent. Just curious why the disrespect?
DU: To be frank, yes. It's because he doesn't have OU on the side of his helmet. Or Texas. Or Nebraska. Complain all you want, but the Heisman is somewhat of a popularity contest that boils down to the best skill position player on a team that finishes near the top 5. I don't see Kansas State winning more than 8-9 games this year. Even 2,000 yards probably wouldn't win Thomas the Heisman. If your team doesn't win at least 10 games, you have almost no chance. Maybe that's bad, but I'm somewhat OK with winning being a big part of the award, because even though a player isn't every reason a team wins, he's most often the biggest reason why.
The only recent exception was Tim Tebow, but Florida is a program with a lot of eyes on it. Tebow had an unbelievable year; he was responsible for 51 touchdowns, the Gators won nine games and ranked in the top 15. Occasionally, an outstanding performance by a guy on a team in that second-tier of teams can win it, which is why Jerrod Johnson and Kendall Hunter are on top of my list for the Big 12, but no Big 12 players are on my Heisman Watch ballot.
Moe in Chicago, Ill. asks: Still think Missouri will give NU a problem this year after their aweful performance against Illinois, which is picked to finish last in the Big10 with Indiana?
DU: I do, but the loss of Derrick Washington is more of a concern than anything that happened last week. Missouri dominated that second half after Blaine Gabbert got rolling, but Washington was Missouri's best bet to get a tough yard. With four backs now under 195 pounds, you might see Missouri throw it a little more inside the 10-yard line or on 3rd-and-short, which by nature is going to lower their percentages of success. We'll see if that comes back to bite them later.
Matt in Milledgeville, Ga. asks: If "T-Magic" backs up his stellar performance last weekend with an eqaully as impressive game, do you see Bo Pelini giving him most of the snaps at Washington next week? What would this mean for the future of Cody Green? Transfer? Position switch?
DU: Definitely, for more on Martinez's status as starter, see my story yesterday. I fully expect Martinez to be the guy next week at Washington, but we'll see how he does against his first real competition when he heads to Seattle. I won't venture a guess as to Green's future. He's still very much in the competition, and Martinez starting at Washington doesn't mean Martinez starts forever. We'll see how it goes, but with as much as Martinez will probably run it, you have to also think a little bit about injury, too.
What I find a little more interesting is what happens to Bubba Starling and Jamal Turner, Nebraska's two blue-chip quarterback recruits for 2011, if Nebraska's bringing back a sophomore at quarterback who just won Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year?
2LT Tyler Norris in Schofield Barracks, HI asks: David, Being a recent UT alumni I have been spoiled by the recent success. This team appears to start the season with similiar expectations as to recent teams. The team seemed very unmotivated, and played less than impressive VS Rice. Do you think it was more of a who they were facing issue or is this finally the yr UT doesn't make 10 wins?
DU: I wouldn't worry at all. Texas was going to focus on getting its running game rolling, and knew having moderate success against Rice wouldn't cost them a win. But as for the final score, let's look at this: Rice scored on a Hail Mary, Texas got stuffed on a 4th-and-goal on the 1-yard line, and the UT secondary dropped two easy pick sixes.
Change all -- or at least a couple -- of those plays, and you get a 55-10 final score. Nobody would be complaining about that, which was a few plays away from happening. It's not like that game was ever really in doubt.
Tad in Holly Springs, N.C. asks: I geeked something out this week. In 2008 and 2009, 13 ranked teams went on the road on Thursday night to face an unranked team. Nine of them were upset. Unranked teams have won 8 of the last 9 games against ranked teams on Thursday.(I am writing this during the Auburn-Miss St game, therefore the number will change)As a Nebraska fan, I am looking a little ahead to our game against Kansas State in a few weeks and wonder why you think this situation exists. With that game being immediately before the Texas game, I cannot help but think Nebraska has a lot working against them.
DU: Well, most of those Thursday night games are conference games, and winning on the road in any conference is tough, especially at night with a crowd that's going to be considerably more jacked up than an 11 a.m. kickoff. It's not any weird coincidence, it's teams playing other good teams on the road in hostile environments. In other words, college football. Winning doesn't come easy.
Jacob in Lubbock, Texas asks: What kind of performance would it take from Taylor Potts over the next few weeks to get him in the Heisman contention?
DU: Don't blame me, but it's going to be tough for a Texas Tech quarterback to ever win a Heisman. The majority of voters have dismissed the position as the product of a system after watching guys like Kliff Kingsbury, B.J. Symons, Sonny Cumbie and Cody Hodges do almost nothing at the next level after putting up video-game numbers in Lubbock.
Michael Crabtree had very, very obvious size and talent that helped win him the Biletnikoff Award twice, and you see him using those at the next level. The Heisman isn't an award that's dependent on future success, obviously, but the short post-college careers of those other guys have certainly lent a lot of credibility to the sentiment that the Air Raid is a plug-n-play system. True or not, perception is reality in the world we live in. And the perception among Heisman voters is there are a lot of quarterbacks who can succeed in that system, and play design and play calling are to be credited, not individual talent.
If Graham Harrell couldn't win it at Texas Tech, nobody can.
Ben in St. Peters, Mo. asks: What would Mack Brown do for a Klondike bar? Seriously.
DU: I can't speak to Mack's love of frozen foods, but I would do any number of things for that delicious treat.
Jenny in College Station, Texas asks: DU, love your blog. My parents are die hard Aggies but I love the Huskers. Do you know if he is single? Also do you think the Aggies will have something to fear when NU comes to town to play the aggies with a mobile QB or do you think they possibly have seen everything they have from Jerrod Johnson who is also a mobile QB and better prepared?
David Ubben: Ha, couldn't shed any light on Jerrod's relationship status. Never came up in my recent visit to College Station, as opposed to when I stopped by Baylor to spend a day with Robert Griffin.
But to your main point, I wouldn't expect Nebraska to be shocked by anything they see, especially when it comes to mobile quarterbacks. The two most mobile guys they faced last year, Tyrod Taylor and Colt McCoy, had awful days when they played the Huskers, but Nebraska still lost both games -- by a point in the final 30 seconds of each game. Taylor completed less than 50 percent of his passes and McCoy threw three interceptions and no touchdowns. Having a guy that can make plays if things break down is nothing new for the Blackshirts.
Scott Anderson in Manhattan, Kan. asks: David, why no love for Daniel Thomas in your Heisman talk? is it because he doesn't have OU on the side of his helmet? and how could you of put kendall hunter on that list but not DT when we all know KSU played a far more difficult opponent. Just curious why the disrespect?
DU: To be frank, yes. It's because he doesn't have OU on the side of his helmet. Or Texas. Or Nebraska. Complain all you want, but the Heisman is somewhat of a popularity contest that boils down to the best skill position player on a team that finishes near the top 5. I don't see Kansas State winning more than 8-9 games this year. Even 2,000 yards probably wouldn't win Thomas the Heisman. If your team doesn't win at least 10 games, you have almost no chance. Maybe that's bad, but I'm somewhat OK with winning being a big part of the award, because even though a player isn't every reason a team wins, he's most often the biggest reason why.
The only recent exception was Tim Tebow, but Florida is a program with a lot of eyes on it. Tebow had an unbelievable year; he was responsible for 51 touchdowns, the Gators won nine games and ranked in the top 15. Occasionally, an outstanding performance by a guy on a team in that second-tier of teams can win it, which is why Jerrod Johnson and Kendall Hunter are on top of my list for the Big 12, but no Big 12 players are on my Heisman Watch ballot.
Moe in Chicago, Ill. asks: Still think Missouri will give NU a problem this year after their aweful performance against Illinois, which is picked to finish last in the Big10 with Indiana?
DU: I do, but the loss of Derrick Washington is more of a concern than anything that happened last week. Missouri dominated that second half after Blaine Gabbert got rolling, but Washington was Missouri's best bet to get a tough yard. With four backs now under 195 pounds, you might see Missouri throw it a little more inside the 10-yard line or on 3rd-and-short, which by nature is going to lower their percentages of success. We'll see if that comes back to bite them later.
Matt in Milledgeville, Ga. asks: If "T-Magic" backs up his stellar performance last weekend with an eqaully as impressive game, do you see Bo Pelini giving him most of the snaps at Washington next week? What would this mean for the future of Cody Green? Transfer? Position switch?
DU: Definitely, for more on Martinez's status as starter, see my story yesterday. I fully expect Martinez to be the guy next week at Washington, but we'll see how he does against his first real competition when he heads to Seattle. I won't venture a guess as to Green's future. He's still very much in the competition, and Martinez starting at Washington doesn't mean Martinez starts forever. We'll see how it goes, but with as much as Martinez will probably run it, you have to also think a little bit about injury, too.
What I find a little more interesting is what happens to Bubba Starling and Jamal Turner, Nebraska's two blue-chip quarterback recruits for 2011, if Nebraska's bringing back a sophomore at quarterback who just won Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year?
2LT Tyler Norris in Schofield Barracks, HI asks: David, Being a recent UT alumni I have been spoiled by the recent success. This team appears to start the season with similiar expectations as to recent teams. The team seemed very unmotivated, and played less than impressive VS Rice. Do you think it was more of a who they were facing issue or is this finally the yr UT doesn't make 10 wins?
DU: I wouldn't worry at all. Texas was going to focus on getting its running game rolling, and knew having moderate success against Rice wouldn't cost them a win. But as for the final score, let's look at this: Rice scored on a Hail Mary, Texas got stuffed on a 4th-and-goal on the 1-yard line, and the UT secondary dropped two easy pick sixes.
Change all -- or at least a couple -- of those plays, and you get a 55-10 final score. Nobody would be complaining about that, which was a few plays away from happening. It's not like that game was ever really in doubt.
Tad in Holly Springs, N.C. asks: I geeked something out this week. In 2008 and 2009, 13 ranked teams went on the road on Thursday night to face an unranked team. Nine of them were upset. Unranked teams have won 8 of the last 9 games against ranked teams on Thursday.(I am writing this during the Auburn-Miss St game, therefore the number will change)As a Nebraska fan, I am looking a little ahead to our game against Kansas State in a few weeks and wonder why you think this situation exists. With that game being immediately before the Texas game, I cannot help but think Nebraska has a lot working against them.
DU: Well, most of those Thursday night games are conference games, and winning on the road in any conference is tough, especially at night with a crowd that's going to be considerably more jacked up than an 11 a.m. kickoff. It's not any weird coincidence, it's teams playing other good teams on the road in hostile environments. In other words, college football. Winning doesn't come easy.
Jacob in Lubbock, Texas asks: What kind of performance would it take from Taylor Potts over the next few weeks to get him in the Heisman contention?
DU: Don't blame me, but it's going to be tough for a Texas Tech quarterback to ever win a Heisman. The majority of voters have dismissed the position as the product of a system after watching guys like Kliff Kingsbury, B.J. Symons, Sonny Cumbie and Cody Hodges do almost nothing at the next level after putting up video-game numbers in Lubbock.
Michael Crabtree had very, very obvious size and talent that helped win him the Biletnikoff Award twice, and you see him using those at the next level. The Heisman isn't an award that's dependent on future success, obviously, but the short post-college careers of those other guys have certainly lent a lot of credibility to the sentiment that the Air Raid is a plug-n-play system. True or not, perception is reality in the world we live in. And the perception among Heisman voters is there are a lot of quarterbacks who can succeed in that system, and play design and play calling are to be credited, not individual talent.
If Graham Harrell couldn't win it at Texas Tech, nobody can.
Ben in St. Peters, Mo. asks: What would Mack Brown do for a Klondike bar? Seriously.
DU: I can't speak to Mack's love of frozen foods, but I would do any number of things for that delicious treat.
You've heard a bit about Bubba Starling in this space before. He's one of Nebraska's two top-tier quarterback recruits for the 2011 class, along with Jamal Turner.
But Starling is also one of the top high school baseball prospects in the country, which should force him to make a decision next year: Chase his baseball dreams or leave Kansas to play Big Ten football for Nebraska.
He knows where he's headed if he goes to school, and plans to play baseball for the Huskers if he makes it to campus. But at the Under Armour All-American Game on Saturday, he was one of two or three players who made a strong case to be a first-round draft pick in the 2011 MLB draft, according to ESPN's Keith Law:
Good for Bubba. Bad for Bo Pelini.
If he does decide to play football, he might want to slow his velocity a bit.
But Starling is also one of the top high school baseball prospects in the country, which should force him to make a decision next year: Chase his baseball dreams or leave Kansas to play Big Ten football for Nebraska.
He knows where he's headed if he goes to school, and plans to play baseball for the Huskers if he makes it to campus. But at the Under Armour All-American Game on Saturday, he was one of two or three players who made a strong case to be a first-round draft pick in the 2011 MLB draft, according to ESPN's Keith Law:
At the top of that list, of course, was Bubba Starling, who was extremely impressive in his inning of work, with a fastball from 89-92 mph and a hammer curveball -- the best I've seen him throw -- at 73-76 mph with good depth and two-plane break; all three outs he recorded came via the strikeout. Starling is still just throwing rather than really pitching; he doesn't get his lower half involved, especially not his hips, and between the potential for improving the delivery and the substantial physical projection he offers, it's hard to forecast future velocity below the 92-95 range.
Good for Bubba. Bad for Bo Pelini.
If he does decide to play football, he might want to slow his velocity a bit.
More team-themed Mailbags:
And feel free to check out an earlier Mailbag heavy on the Huskers.
Dave in Kansas City, MO writes: Is it just me, or is Nebraska going to end up being WAYYYY overrated? I don't care what anyone says, it defies logic to say the defense will be better after losing the most dominant player in the NCAA last season. How much better do you think Ndamukong Suh made everyone else look, taking up double teams, still getting to the QB, and leading the team in tackles despite being a DT? That never happens. Also, this is pretty much the same offense that scored 17 points or less 6 times last year, including that 9-7 barn burner against ISU... I say there's a strong possibility they will have already lost 1-2 games by the time they play Texas, and they finish the season unranked. Your thoughts?
David Ubben: Well, the potential is there if Nebraska’s offense isn’t a lot better and the defense isn’t as good as Bo Pelini says it is. Nebraska had a great team last year that lost a lot of close games, but they’re still relying a bit on potential this year, replacing starters in the secondary and of course, Ndamukong Suh. They also obviously need the quarterback play to be a lot better.
But the offensive line brings back four starters from last year’s unit that was already pretty good. You’d be surprised how much better that can make guys like Zac Lee and Roy Helu look when they have time and holes to work with. I think the offense will be better, and it doesn’t make much sense for Bo Pelini to be talking up his defense like he has been if he didn’t feel strongly that those players could validate him. And the man knows defense. We know this.
So overall, I don’t think I agree with you. The potential for letdown is there, but if Nebraska gets past Washington—and I think it will—the Huskers should be undefeated when Texas comes to town.
Diggs1911 in Atlanta, Ga. writes: I live here in Atl, but was born in Nebraska and am a fan for life. I was wondering if Nebraska will turn one of its quarterbacks from the 2011 class into a receiver or a running back. One more question: Is this 2010-2011 class good enough to compete in the Big 10 in the comming years?
DU: I could see that instead of a transfer, like I predicted earlier. The most likely scenario would be Jamal Turner, who’s classified as an athlete in recruiting, moving to receiver. But right now, they’re both coming in as quarterbacks and both sound like they want the job. Starling’s status is somewhat up in the air, but if I had to guess, I think he comes to Nebraska to usher in the Big Ten Era in Lincoln. That said, as a Kansas guy, he might not see as much romanticism in "playing for Nebraska" as a kid from Lincoln, Omaha or a small town in Nebraska.
Jon Weinhold in Omaha, Neb. writes: Okay Dave, time to lay it on the line. How successful do you think a wildcat offense would really be for the Huskers this season, and how much of the success of the Holiday Bowl was related to the fact that Arizona most likely was caught totally off guard?
DU: That might be part of it, but the Wildcat’s going to be a really small part of the Nebraska offense unless the quarterbacks really struggle. I’ve mentioned this on here before, but unique schemes like that become less effective the more you use them. But running Taylor Martinez, Cody Green or Rex Burkhead back there a few times a game against the best defenses the Huskers will face seems like a good estimate.
Don Bowers in Oklahoma City, Okla writes: Follow up question: After I start work in August, how do you recommend I read your ridiculously awesome blog at work without getting caught? I really look forward to keeping up with the [insert team: Nebraska] content. (Admittedly, another lame attempt at fitting your Nebraska prompt). Thanks.
DU: Once again, flattery will get you everywhere on the Big 12 blog. As for your situation, I don't have any practical suggestions, only a statement: Few things are nobler than martyrdom. But don't let me tell you what to do.
Nate Gleaves in Lincoln, Neb. writes: Isn't this the easiest schedule the Huskers have had in a while?
DU: It’s lining up that way. I don’t know that I’d describe it as “easy,” but it’s set the Huskers up for a nice run during what should be a peak year. Going to Washington isn’t going to be simple, but its toughest games (Texas and Missouri) are in Lincoln. The only other big hurdle will be an itchy Texas A&M team in the middle of a brutal run at the end of the season that should have racked up a great record by then without playing any of the top teams in the Big 12 yet. The Aggies play Oklahoma, Nebraska and Texas in November. Nebraska got a nice draw in not having to play Oklahoma, but they might see the Sooners in Dallas at the title game.
Andy in Edmond, Okla. writes: Other than QB (which has been talked to death), which unit's improvement is most critical to Nebraska becoming a national contender?
DU: Nebraska is pretty solid just about everywhere but receiver. Niles Paul should be reasonably reliable, but guys like Brandon Kinnie and Curenski Gilleylen need to make life easier for Zac Lee. Moving sure-handed tight end Mike McNeill to a flex-type position was a good call. He should be a nice security blanket underneath for whoever wins the QB battle.
Bobby in Fort Campbell, Ky. writes: David, do you believe that Nebraska's offense will be as vanilla as it was last year? I think they can win every game on their schedule if the offense looks like it did in the Holiday Bowl...
DU: Nah, they’re going to open it up a lot more. I wrote about that in detail this spring, if you’d like to give it a read. They'll try to look like they did in the bowl game, and you're right, if it does, that's going to get them pretty close to my best-case scenario for the Huskers.
Adam in Omaha, Neb. asks: Why is Nebraska running away from the Big 12? are they afraid they can't compete anymore?
DU: No.
And feel free to check out an earlier Mailbag heavy on the Huskers.
Dave in Kansas City, MO writes: Is it just me, or is Nebraska going to end up being WAYYYY overrated? I don't care what anyone says, it defies logic to say the defense will be better after losing the most dominant player in the NCAA last season. How much better do you think Ndamukong Suh made everyone else look, taking up double teams, still getting to the QB, and leading the team in tackles despite being a DT? That never happens. Also, this is pretty much the same offense that scored 17 points or less 6 times last year, including that 9-7 barn burner against ISU... I say there's a strong possibility they will have already lost 1-2 games by the time they play Texas, and they finish the season unranked. Your thoughts?
David Ubben: Well, the potential is there if Nebraska’s offense isn’t a lot better and the defense isn’t as good as Bo Pelini says it is. Nebraska had a great team last year that lost a lot of close games, but they’re still relying a bit on potential this year, replacing starters in the secondary and of course, Ndamukong Suh. They also obviously need the quarterback play to be a lot better.
But the offensive line brings back four starters from last year’s unit that was already pretty good. You’d be surprised how much better that can make guys like Zac Lee and Roy Helu look when they have time and holes to work with. I think the offense will be better, and it doesn’t make much sense for Bo Pelini to be talking up his defense like he has been if he didn’t feel strongly that those players could validate him. And the man knows defense. We know this.
So overall, I don’t think I agree with you. The potential for letdown is there, but if Nebraska gets past Washington—and I think it will—the Huskers should be undefeated when Texas comes to town.
Diggs1911 in Atlanta, Ga. writes: I live here in Atl, but was born in Nebraska and am a fan for life. I was wondering if Nebraska will turn one of its quarterbacks from the 2011 class into a receiver or a running back. One more question: Is this 2010-2011 class good enough to compete in the Big 10 in the comming years?
DU: I could see that instead of a transfer, like I predicted earlier. The most likely scenario would be Jamal Turner, who’s classified as an athlete in recruiting, moving to receiver. But right now, they’re both coming in as quarterbacks and both sound like they want the job. Starling’s status is somewhat up in the air, but if I had to guess, I think he comes to Nebraska to usher in the Big Ten Era in Lincoln. That said, as a Kansas guy, he might not see as much romanticism in "playing for Nebraska" as a kid from Lincoln, Omaha or a small town in Nebraska.
Jon Weinhold in Omaha, Neb. writes: Okay Dave, time to lay it on the line. How successful do you think a wildcat offense would really be for the Huskers this season, and how much of the success of the Holiday Bowl was related to the fact that Arizona most likely was caught totally off guard?
DU: That might be part of it, but the Wildcat’s going to be a really small part of the Nebraska offense unless the quarterbacks really struggle. I’ve mentioned this on here before, but unique schemes like that become less effective the more you use them. But running Taylor Martinez, Cody Green or Rex Burkhead back there a few times a game against the best defenses the Huskers will face seems like a good estimate.
Don Bowers in Oklahoma City, Okla writes: Follow up question: After I start work in August, how do you recommend I read your ridiculously awesome blog at work without getting caught? I really look forward to keeping up with the [insert team: Nebraska] content. (Admittedly, another lame attempt at fitting your Nebraska prompt). Thanks.
DU: Once again, flattery will get you everywhere on the Big 12 blog. As for your situation, I don't have any practical suggestions, only a statement: Few things are nobler than martyrdom. But don't let me tell you what to do.
Nate Gleaves in Lincoln, Neb. writes: Isn't this the easiest schedule the Huskers have had in a while?
DU: It’s lining up that way. I don’t know that I’d describe it as “easy,” but it’s set the Huskers up for a nice run during what should be a peak year. Going to Washington isn’t going to be simple, but its toughest games (Texas and Missouri) are in Lincoln. The only other big hurdle will be an itchy Texas A&M team in the middle of a brutal run at the end of the season that should have racked up a great record by then without playing any of the top teams in the Big 12 yet. The Aggies play Oklahoma, Nebraska and Texas in November. Nebraska got a nice draw in not having to play Oklahoma, but they might see the Sooners in Dallas at the title game.
Andy in Edmond, Okla. writes: Other than QB (which has been talked to death), which unit's improvement is most critical to Nebraska becoming a national contender?
DU: Nebraska is pretty solid just about everywhere but receiver. Niles Paul should be reasonably reliable, but guys like Brandon Kinnie and Curenski Gilleylen need to make life easier for Zac Lee. Moving sure-handed tight end Mike McNeill to a flex-type position was a good call. He should be a nice security blanket underneath for whoever wins the QB battle.
Bobby in Fort Campbell, Ky. writes: David, do you believe that Nebraska's offense will be as vanilla as it was last year? I think they can win every game on their schedule if the offense looks like it did in the Holiday Bowl...
DU: Nah, they’re going to open it up a lot more. I wrote about that in detail this spring, if you’d like to give it a read. They'll try to look like they did in the bowl game, and you're right, if it does, that's going to get them pretty close to my best-case scenario for the Huskers.
Adam in Omaha, Neb. asks: Why is Nebraska running away from the Big 12? are they afraid they can't compete anymore?
DU: No.
Husker blue-chip QB may not get to Lincoln
July, 14, 2010
7/14/10
1:15
PM ET
By
David Ubben | ESPN.com
Nebraska's 2011 recruiting class already has two of the nation's top quarterbacks, Jamal Turner and Bubba Starling. They may stage a high-profile quarterback battle (albeit a Big Ten battle) in the future, but Starling may never make it to Lincoln, even if he signs a letter of intent.
ESPNU ranks Starling as the nation's No. 6 quarterback, but he's also a possible future draft pick in next May's First-Year Player Draft.
That would be three months after signing a letter of intent with Nebraska, but if he's drafted, he'll have a decision to make about his future: Start working out for fall camp in Lincoln or hit the road as a minor leaguer.
Last week, Starling played on the United States' 18-and-under national team and swept a five-game exhibition series from the Greater New York Sandlot Athletic Alliance All-Stars. I have no idea what that team is or who would be playing on it, but the point is, he's quite good with a bat in his hand. And he took some time out of the tournament to talk to the New York Post, making it obvious that he hasn't made up his mind just yet.
“I’ll just have to see how the rest of my summer goes and as far as the draft goes next year,” Starling told the paper. “We’ll just figure that stuff out then. But if it is going to college, I’ll just keep playing both and after a couple of years I’ll know what to do.”
He plans to play baseball and football at Nebraska if he comes to Lincoln, something that was a big part of his recruitment.
Last weekend, Starling and his teammates were honored at a Mets game, and it's clear Starling's enjoying himself.
“We were getting ready to line up and [Braves pitcher] Billy Wagner threw me a baseball so that was pretty sweet,” he said. “I could see a lot of these guys at that level some day.”
He'll play four more exhibition games for the national team in Minnesota before taking part in the world championships in Ontario later this month.
Meanwhile, Turner hasn't been shy about the competition that may come his way. Ranked as the nation's No. 4 athlete, Turner showed off his quotability to the Lincoln Journal Star last month. He even plans to early enroll at Nebraska, giving himself an opportunity to take part in spring practice before his freshman season.
But Starling sounds ready to go, too, even if he's still not sure which field he'll be stepping onto just yet.
“I’m really blessed,” said Starling, whose given name is Derek. “I just like to be a leader both in football and baseball. Being a quarterback is what, competing and going out every Friday night playing my hardest, the same with baseball, too.”
ESPNU ranks Starling as the nation's No. 6 quarterback, but he's also a possible future draft pick in next May's First-Year Player Draft.
That would be three months after signing a letter of intent with Nebraska, but if he's drafted, he'll have a decision to make about his future: Start working out for fall camp in Lincoln or hit the road as a minor leaguer.
Last week, Starling played on the United States' 18-and-under national team and swept a five-game exhibition series from the Greater New York Sandlot Athletic Alliance All-Stars. I have no idea what that team is or who would be playing on it, but the point is, he's quite good with a bat in his hand. And he took some time out of the tournament to talk to the New York Post, making it obvious that he hasn't made up his mind just yet.
“I’ll just have to see how the rest of my summer goes and as far as the draft goes next year,” Starling told the paper. “We’ll just figure that stuff out then. But if it is going to college, I’ll just keep playing both and after a couple of years I’ll know what to do.”
He plans to play baseball and football at Nebraska if he comes to Lincoln, something that was a big part of his recruitment.
Last weekend, Starling and his teammates were honored at a Mets game, and it's clear Starling's enjoying himself.
“We were getting ready to line up and [Braves pitcher] Billy Wagner threw me a baseball so that was pretty sweet,” he said. “I could see a lot of these guys at that level some day.”
He'll play four more exhibition games for the national team in Minnesota before taking part in the world championships in Ontario later this month.
Meanwhile, Turner hasn't been shy about the competition that may come his way. Ranked as the nation's No. 4 athlete, Turner showed off his quotability to the Lincoln Journal Star last month. He even plans to early enroll at Nebraska, giving himself an opportunity to take part in spring practice before his freshman season.
But Starling sounds ready to go, too, even if he's still not sure which field he'll be stepping onto just yet.
“I’m really blessed,” said Starling, whose given name is Derek. “I just like to be a leader both in football and baseball. Being a quarterback is what, competing and going out every Friday night playing my hardest, the same with baseball, too.”
Ranking the early recruiting classes: Part 2
June, 28, 2010
6/28/10
3:45
PM ET
By
David Ubben | ESPN.com
You saw the second half of the Big 12 this morning. Here's how the rest of the conference stacks up on the recruiting trail for 2011. Here's a look at both halves in one click.
All the information below is from our ESPNU database. And again, remember, each of these commitments in non-binding, and players won't be able to sign an official letter of intent until February 2011.
1. Texas
Total commitments: 22
ESPNU150 members: 9
Top recruit: Christian Westerman, OT
ESPNU ranks the Longhorns' class as No. 1 in the nation, far above No. 2 LSU. They have the most commits and the most ESPNU 150 members, including two of the top prospects at their positions, Westerman and CB Quandre Diggs. The de-committed DT Quincy Russell re-committed over the weekend to bring Texas' total to 22.
2. Oklahoma
Total commitments: 17
ESPNU150 members: 6
Top recruit: Trey Metoyer, WR
Oklahoma has the second-most ESPNU 150 members, behind Texas, and the No. 4 overall class. Metoyer brings some much-needed help to the Sooners receivers, who lost to Texas out on a handful of top wideouts in the 2010 class.
3. Nebraska
Total commitments: 12
ESPNU150 members: 2
Top recruits: Bubba Starling and Jamal Turner, QBs
The Huskers needed help at QB, and they'll be getting it. Turner and Starling could stage some impressive battles in camp, and if I take a gander into the looking glass, I see one of them transferring before his career is over. ESPNU ranks the Huskers' class No. 12.
4-a. Texas Tech
Total commitments: 14
ESPNU150 members: None
Top recruits: Bradley Marquez and Kenny Williams, RB
The Red Raiders' pair of top-25 running backs mean the depth at running back likely won't be gone any time soon.
4-b. Oklahoma State
Total commitments: 12
ESPNU150 members: 1
Top recruit: Herschel Sims, RB
The Cowboys also have the nation's No. 11 QB, J.W. Walsh, who probably just missed the ESPNU 150 list.
6. Missouri
Total commitments: 10
ESPNU150 members: None
Top recruit: Sheldon Richardson, DT
The two-year junior college wait for Richardson could be over soon for the former blue-chip recruit and Tigers’ commit.
All the information below is from our ESPNU database. And again, remember, each of these commitments in non-binding, and players won't be able to sign an official letter of intent until February 2011.
1. Texas
Total commitments: 22
ESPNU150 members: 9
Top recruit: Christian Westerman, OT
ESPNU ranks the Longhorns' class as No. 1 in the nation, far above No. 2 LSU. They have the most commits and the most ESPNU 150 members, including two of the top prospects at their positions, Westerman and CB Quandre Diggs. The de-committed DT Quincy Russell re-committed over the weekend to bring Texas' total to 22.
2. Oklahoma
Total commitments: 17
ESPNU150 members: 6
Top recruit: Trey Metoyer, WR
Oklahoma has the second-most ESPNU 150 members, behind Texas, and the No. 4 overall class. Metoyer brings some much-needed help to the Sooners receivers, who lost to Texas out on a handful of top wideouts in the 2010 class.
3. Nebraska
Total commitments: 12
ESPNU150 members: 2
Top recruits: Bubba Starling and Jamal Turner, QBs
The Huskers needed help at QB, and they'll be getting it. Turner and Starling could stage some impressive battles in camp, and if I take a gander into the looking glass, I see one of them transferring before his career is over. ESPNU ranks the Huskers' class No. 12.
4-a. Texas Tech
Total commitments: 14
ESPNU150 members: None
Top recruits: Bradley Marquez and Kenny Williams, RB
The Red Raiders' pair of top-25 running backs mean the depth at running back likely won't be gone any time soon.
4-b. Oklahoma State
Total commitments: 12
ESPNU150 members: 1
Top recruit: Herschel Sims, RB
The Cowboys also have the nation's No. 11 QB, J.W. Walsh, who probably just missed the ESPNU 150 list.
6. Missouri
Total commitments: 10
ESPNU150 members: None
Top recruit: Sheldon Richardson, DT
The two-year junior college wait for Richardson could be over soon for the former blue-chip recruit and Tigers’ commit.
Lunch links: Huskers, Buffs to escape penalties?
June, 23, 2010
6/23/10
12:30
PM ET
By
David Ubben | ESPN.com
- Tom Shatel at the Omaha World-Herald consulted a few lawyers, and they believe Nebraska and Colorado won't have to pay the full penalty written into the Big 12's bylaws.
- A year off did Kansas OC Chuck Long a lot of good, reports Berry Tramel of The Oklahoman.
- Pac-10 commissioner Larry Scott is confident the addition of Colorado -- without the Big 12 South -- added enough revenue to warrant the invitation, reports Jon Wilner of the San Jose Mercury News.
- Offensive lineman Zach Sterup, the top prospect in Nebraska, is ready to play for the Huskers, reports Brian Christopherson of the Lincoln Journal Star. He also catches up with Nebraska's other quarterback prospect, Jamal Turner, who might become the best interview in the Big Ten, judging by his recent comments.
- Kansas State AD John Currie talks to the Wichita Eagle's Kellis Robinett about the possibility of a Wildcat TV network on cable in the future.
Score Round 1 for Nebraska in the recruiting battles between Kansas coach Turner Gill and his alma mater.
Bubba Starling, the nation's No. 6 quarterback and No. 107 in the ESPNU 150, committed to Nebraska over the weekend, but since he's a member of the 2011 class, perhaps this post is better suited for the Big Ten blog.
"In terms of pure physical tools Starling may very well be one of the most impressive kids in this class. He has all the measurables you want, he has a rare arm and a high ceiling for development. He may be a green now, but love how his future looks if he chooses to play football. His talent in baseball may determine his future though," wrote ESPN Recruiting's Tom Luginbill.
Starling, a 6-foot-5, 195-pound native of Gardner, Kan., is the state's best prospect, and plans to play baseball at Nebraska, too.
"The coaching staffs got to together and came up with a plan that sounds great. That's what I liked about it," Starling told the Kansas City Star. "I'll be playing both sports, keeping up with my academics and managing my time."
Starling chose the Huskers over Kansas and Kansas State, as well as Notre Dame, Alabama and Miami. It also gives Nebraska its second quarterback for the class. Arlington, Texas' Jamal Turner, No. 55 in the ESPNU 150, is ranked as the No. 4 athlete in the country and committed to Nebraska in January. As a speedy dual threat, he could play quarterback or switch positions once he shows up in Lincoln.
Turner and Starling give Nebraska two ESPNU 150 members among its currently 11-member class for 2011.
Here's a look at which Big 12 teams have commitments from ESPNU 150 prospects.
Meanwhile, Texas raided its northern neighbor for the second consecutive year. Josh Turner, the top prospect in Oklahoma, committed to the Longhorns on Saturday.
DeMarco Cobbs, the state's top prospect in 2010, signed with Texas in February.
Turner, a 5-foot-11, 180-pound athlete from Millwood (Oklahoma City, Okla.) is likely to play corner, giving added depth to one of Texas' strongest positions already. He's ranked as the No. 10 athlete and the No. 87 overall prospect in the 2011 class.
"Texas continues to build on its top ranked recruiting class with one of the more versatile playmakers in this class. The top rated prospect in Oklahoma could actually be recruited to play receiver for the Longhorns with his great quickness and hands, but we feel his good length, speed, ball and transitional skills are harder to find at corner. A terrific athlete who should challenge for early playing time at corner and potentially contribute in all three phases of the game during his career in Austin," ESPN Recruiting's Billy Tucker wrote.
Turner's commitment gives Texas its ninth ESPNU 150 commitment, the most of any school. He's also Mack Brown's 21st commitment of the 2011 class.
Turner chose Texas from over 25 offers, including Oklahoma, Nebraska, Notre Dame and Alabama.
Tommy Tuberville's influence in Lubbock showed over the weekend. He reeled in a very early commitment from Derek David, an inside linebacker who is projected as one of the top defenders in the 2012 class.
The 6-foot-4, 225-pound linebacker (and high school sophomore) from Rockdale, Texas, spurned Ohio State, Alabama and Texas to play for Tuberville's Red Raiders.
Bubba Starling, the nation's No. 6 quarterback and No. 107 in the ESPNU 150, committed to Nebraska over the weekend, but since he's a member of the 2011 class, perhaps this post is better suited for the Big Ten blog.
"In terms of pure physical tools Starling may very well be one of the most impressive kids in this class. He has all the measurables you want, he has a rare arm and a high ceiling for development. He may be a green now, but love how his future looks if he chooses to play football. His talent in baseball may determine his future though," wrote ESPN Recruiting's Tom Luginbill.
Starling, a 6-foot-5, 195-pound native of Gardner, Kan., is the state's best prospect, and plans to play baseball at Nebraska, too.
"The coaching staffs got to together and came up with a plan that sounds great. That's what I liked about it," Starling told the Kansas City Star. "I'll be playing both sports, keeping up with my academics and managing my time."
Starling chose the Huskers over Kansas and Kansas State, as well as Notre Dame, Alabama and Miami. It also gives Nebraska its second quarterback for the class. Arlington, Texas' Jamal Turner, No. 55 in the ESPNU 150, is ranked as the No. 4 athlete in the country and committed to Nebraska in January. As a speedy dual threat, he could play quarterback or switch positions once he shows up in Lincoln.
Turner and Starling give Nebraska two ESPNU 150 members among its currently 11-member class for 2011.
Here's a look at which Big 12 teams have commitments from ESPNU 150 prospects.
Meanwhile, Texas raided its northern neighbor for the second consecutive year. Josh Turner, the top prospect in Oklahoma, committed to the Longhorns on Saturday.
DeMarco Cobbs, the state's top prospect in 2010, signed with Texas in February.
Turner, a 5-foot-11, 180-pound athlete from Millwood (Oklahoma City, Okla.) is likely to play corner, giving added depth to one of Texas' strongest positions already. He's ranked as the No. 10 athlete and the No. 87 overall prospect in the 2011 class.
"Texas continues to build on its top ranked recruiting class with one of the more versatile playmakers in this class. The top rated prospect in Oklahoma could actually be recruited to play receiver for the Longhorns with his great quickness and hands, but we feel his good length, speed, ball and transitional skills are harder to find at corner. A terrific athlete who should challenge for early playing time at corner and potentially contribute in all three phases of the game during his career in Austin," ESPN Recruiting's Billy Tucker wrote.
Turner's commitment gives Texas its ninth ESPNU 150 commitment, the most of any school. He's also Mack Brown's 21st commitment of the 2011 class.
Turner chose Texas from over 25 offers, including Oklahoma, Nebraska, Notre Dame and Alabama.
Tommy Tuberville's influence in Lubbock showed over the weekend. He reeled in a very early commitment from Derek David, an inside linebacker who is projected as one of the top defenders in the 2012 class.
The 6-foot-4, 225-pound linebacker (and high school sophomore) from Rockdale, Texas, spurned Ohio State, Alabama and Texas to play for Tuberville's Red Raiders.
The 2011 ESPNU 150 was finalized this week, and four Big 12 teams have secured a handful of commits from the list.
Texas has the most of any team in the nation, with eight of the nation's top 150 recruits pledged to the Longhorns eight months before signing day.
Oklahoma has the nation's second-most, with six commits. Here's how the Big 12 stacked up.
Texas (8):
Texas has the most of any team in the nation, with eight of the nation's top 150 recruits pledged to the Longhorns eight months before signing day.
Oklahoma has the nation's second-most, with six commits. Here's how the Big 12 stacked up.
Texas (8):
- No. 4 Christian Westerman, OT
- No. 17 Quandre Diggs, CB
- No. 25 Desmond Jackson, DT
- No. 51 Steve Edmond, ILB
- No. 70 Sedrick Flowers, OG
- No. 120 Sheroid Evans, CB
- No. 133 Leroy Scott, CB
- No. 140 Garrett Greenlea, OT
- No. 58 Trey Metoyer, WR
- No. 60 Danzel Williams, ATH
- No. 73 Brandon Williams, RB
- No. 89 Nathan Hughes, DE
- No. 102 Jordan Wade, DT
- No. 146 Kendal Thompson, QB
- No. 55 Jamal Turner, ATH
- No. 100 Herschel Sims, RB
Nebraska, Oklahoma get jump on recruiting
February, 9, 2010
2/09/10
11:12
AM ET
By Tim Griffin | ESPN.com
Veteran talent analyst JC Shurburtt of ESPN Recruiting has listed the top 11 programs with the fastest start on their 2011 recruiting classes. Both Nebraska and Oklahoma made the unranked list.
Nebraska has already received commitments from three players, including two selections on the ESPNU 150 watch list. Both of Oklahoma's early commitments made the ESPNU 150 watch list.
The Cornhuskers already have received verbal commitments from two of the nation's top linemen, continuing a tradition that is a bedrock of the Nebraska program. Tyler Moore, a 6-foot-6, 270-pounder from Countryside High School in Clearwater, Fla., is joined by Ryne Reeves, a 6-foot-3, 287-pound center from Crete, Neb. Along with those two on the ESPNU 150 watch list with quarterback Jamal Turner of Sam Houston High School in Arlington, Texas.
And the Sooners have garnered two on the 150 list, including wide receiver Kameel Jackson who is Turner's major receiving target at Sam Houston High School. He is joined by quarterback Kendal Thompson of Southmoore High School in Moore, Okla.
Here's a quick look at what other schools in the conference have gotten an early start (Note: * indicates an ESPNU 150 watch list player):
Nebraska has already received commitments from three players, including two selections on the ESPNU 150 watch list. Both of Oklahoma's early commitments made the ESPNU 150 watch list.
The Cornhuskers already have received verbal commitments from two of the nation's top linemen, continuing a tradition that is a bedrock of the Nebraska program. Tyler Moore, a 6-foot-6, 270-pounder from Countryside High School in Clearwater, Fla., is joined by Ryne Reeves, a 6-foot-3, 287-pound center from Crete, Neb. Along with those two on the ESPNU 150 watch list with quarterback Jamal Turner of Sam Houston High School in Arlington, Texas.
And the Sooners have garnered two on the 150 list, including wide receiver Kameel Jackson who is Turner's major receiving target at Sam Houston High School. He is joined by quarterback Kendal Thompson of Southmoore High School in Moore, Okla.
Here's a quick look at what other schools in the conference have gotten an early start (Note: * indicates an ESPNU 150 watch list player):
- Baylor: None.
- Colorado: C Shaun Simon (Hutchinson Community College)
- Iowa State: None.
- Kansas: None.
- Kansas State: OT Cody Whitehair (Abilene, Kan.), DT Olukayode Akinmoladun (Independence Community College), WR Marcus Kennard (Butler County Community College), QB Angelo Pease (Hutchinson Community College), DE Meshak Williams (Hutchinson, Kan.)
- Missouri: *QB Corbin Berkstresser (Lee Summit, Mo.); WR Wesley Leftwich (Hickman, Mo.); ATH Anthony Pierson (Gateway, Mo.), DT Sheldon Richardson (College of the Sequoias).
- Nebraska: *OT Tyler Moore (Clearwater, Fla.), *C Ryne Reeves (Crete, Neb.), QB Jamal Turner (Arlington, Texas).
- Oklahoma: *WR Kameel Jackson (Arlington, Texas), *QB Kendal Thompson (Moore, Okla.)
- Oklahoma State: *QB J.W. Walsh (Denton, Texas), T Travis Cross (Plano, Texas), S Isaac Maselera (Glenpool, Okla.)
- Texas: None.
- Texas A&M: *T Joseph Creek (Seguin, Texas).
- Texas Tech: *WR Javares McRoy (Lakeland, Fla.)
Big 12 recruiting: Nelson reaffirms A&M pledge
January, 29, 2010
1/29/10
5:28
PM ET
By Tim Griffin | ESPN.com
There was more recruiting news today than the two-man haul Mack Brown and Texas received with commitments from Jackson Jeffcoat and Jordan Hicks.
Texas A&M received some good news as well in these recruiting nuggets provided by Tom Luginbill, director of scouting for Scouts Inc.
Here are some late afternoon Big 12-related recruiting nuggets.
And for up-to-the-minute recruiting information, always look at ESPN.com's On the Trail, which legitimately is one of the highlights of our Insider benefits.
OLB Corey Nelson
Dallas, TX
Skyline H.S.
Scouts Grade: 81
ESPNU150 Rank: 62
Position Rank: 3
Under Armour All-American Corey Nelson remains committed to Texas A&M
Despite other reports, the four-star outside linebacker is still pledged to Texas A&M and has not switched to Oklahoma, ESPN affiliate Web site TexAgs.com reports.
DE Jackson Jeffcoat
Plano, TX
Plano West H.S.
Scouts Grade: 88
ESPNU150 Rank: 2
Position Rank: 1
Five-star prospect Jackson Jeffcoat (Plano, Texas/West) committed to Texas Friday at a press conference at Plano West High School. He selected the Longhorns over Oklahoma and Houston. Jeffcoat also considered Arizona State, USC and Florida.
OLB Jordan Hicks
West Chester, OH
Lakota West H.S.
Scouts Grade: 87
ESPNU150 Rank: 4
Position Rank: 1
Five-star Jordan Hicks (West Chester, Ohio/Lakota West) announced for the Longhorns Friday at a 12:30 EST press conference held at Lakota West High School. He picked Texas over Ohio State and Florida. Alabama and USC were previously included with Hicks' top schools.
QB Jamal Turner
Arlington, TX
Sam Houston H.S.
Scouts Grade: 45
Nebraska has snared a commitment from top junior quarterback Jamal Turner of Sam Houston (Arlington, Texas). The second-team all-state selection and district MVP also has early offers from Oklahoma, Purdue, Texas A&M, Vanderbilt and Memphis.
S Dexter McDonald
Kansas City, MO
Rockhurst H.S.
Scouts Grade: 79
Position Rank: 29
Three-star cornerback Dexter McDonald of Rockhurst (Kansas City, Mo.) has pledged to sign with Kansas after decommitting from Missouri. McDonald (6-foot-2, 190-pounds) had been committed to Illinois before making the move to Missouri last week.
DE Keba Agostinho
Katy, TX
James E. Taylor H.S.
Scouts Grade: 40
Defensive end Keba Agostinho (Katy, Texas/Taylor) has pledged to sign as part of Kansas' Class of 2010, ESPN affiliate Web site TheShiver.com reports.
Texas A&M received some good news as well in these recruiting nuggets provided by Tom Luginbill, director of scouting for Scouts Inc.
Here are some late afternoon Big 12-related recruiting nuggets.
And for up-to-the-minute recruiting information, always look at ESPN.com's On the Trail, which legitimately is one of the highlights of our Insider benefits.
OLB Corey Nelson
Dallas, TX
Skyline H.S.
Scouts Grade: 81
ESPNU150 Rank: 62
Position Rank: 3
Under Armour All-American Corey Nelson remains committed to Texas A&M
Despite other reports, the four-star outside linebacker is still pledged to Texas A&M and has not switched to Oklahoma, ESPN affiliate Web site TexAgs.com reports.
DE Jackson Jeffcoat
Plano, TX
Plano West H.S.
Scouts Grade: 88
ESPNU150 Rank: 2
Position Rank: 1
Five-star prospect Jackson Jeffcoat (Plano, Texas/West) committed to Texas Friday at a press conference at Plano West High School. He selected the Longhorns over Oklahoma and Houston. Jeffcoat also considered Arizona State, USC and Florida.
OLB Jordan Hicks
West Chester, OH
Lakota West H.S.
Scouts Grade: 87
ESPNU150 Rank: 4
Position Rank: 1
Five-star Jordan Hicks (West Chester, Ohio/Lakota West) announced for the Longhorns Friday at a 12:30 EST press conference held at Lakota West High School. He picked Texas over Ohio State and Florida. Alabama and USC were previously included with Hicks' top schools.
QB Jamal Turner
Arlington, TX
Sam Houston H.S.
Scouts Grade: 45
Nebraska has snared a commitment from top junior quarterback Jamal Turner of Sam Houston (Arlington, Texas). The second-team all-state selection and district MVP also has early offers from Oklahoma, Purdue, Texas A&M, Vanderbilt and Memphis.
S Dexter McDonald
Kansas City, MO
Rockhurst H.S.
Scouts Grade: 79
Position Rank: 29
Three-star cornerback Dexter McDonald of Rockhurst (Kansas City, Mo.) has pledged to sign with Kansas after decommitting from Missouri. McDonald (6-foot-2, 190-pounds) had been committed to Illinois before making the move to Missouri last week.
DE Keba Agostinho
Katy, TX
James E. Taylor H.S.
Scouts Grade: 40
Defensive end Keba Agostinho (Katy, Texas/Taylor) has pledged to sign as part of Kansas' Class of 2010, ESPN affiliate Web site TheShiver.com reports.
ABOUT THIS BLOG
David Ubben
Ubben joined ESPN.com in March 2010 after covering Big 12 football for two seasons at the Columbia Missourian and The Oklahoman. Ubben, a native of Springdale, Ark., lives in Dallas.
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