ESPNHS Football

Tramel Terry didn't really know what to expect entering the Charlotte Nike Football Training Camp. After pulling his groin in the state championship game last fall and running track for part of the spring, the Goose Creek (S.C.) junior still wasn't close to 100 percent. Heck, he hadn't even run full speed in weeks.

But despite the uncertainty, Terry would settle for nothing less than an invite to The Opening while at the NFTC. He made good on his personal vow, using impressive route running and several acrobatic catches to secure a spot at the prestigious event set to take place July 5-8 in Oregon.

Adjusting to circumstances is nothing for Terry, who is ranked No. 47 in the ESPN 150. The Georgia recruit played three positions last fall, totaling 1,680 yards and 16 touchdowns as a wide receiver and running back and shining at defensive back in leading the Gators to the Division II-AAAA state championship.

Terry took some time to talk about The Opening, his commitment to Georgia and his favorite position.

ESPNHS: How did you feel about your performance at the Charlotte NFTC?
Terry: I was injured but still out there competing, expecting the best. Every Saturday, I prepared for the camp like it was a game. I would go to the weight room and work on this little machine that works your hips to stay loose. My groin didn't bother me once I got going, so I was able to work with it. At the end, I wasn't sure if I had done good enough to make it to The Opening, but I was real excited and happy when I got the invite.

ESPNHS: How did you hurt your groin?
Terry: I actually hurt it in the state title game. I wasn't resting so it had become a chronic problem and I had to stop running track. I've tried resting some but I committed to going to the NFTC, so I had to prepare for that. Now that I'm done, I'm going to rest up before going to Florida in June to train with Donovin Darius, who used to play for the Jacksonville Jaguars.

ESPNHS: What are your expectations going into The Opening?
Terry: I just want to represent my school, Georgia and my class. It's cool to be seen as one of the best players out there, but I know everybody will be good out there, so I'm just going to learn and do my best. I'm not going to press to be somebody I'm not; I'm just going to play my game.

ESPNHS: What was it like winning a state championship last fall?
Terry: It was crazy. We really should have more than one ring, in my mind. The year before, we lost by five yards [in the semifinals] because we threw a Hail Mary at the end and I caught it just short at the 5-yard line. But it was a tough fight in the state championship and it was great to get the win. Now we're looking to do the same thing next year. The leadership of me and the other seniors will be important because we want to make sure the young guys don't come in and think they don't have to work for another title since we just won one. Hopefully everybody will be humble and work hard.

ESPNHS: Which position did you initially play and how did you end up playing three at Goose Creek?
Terry: My first position was wide receiver, but I didn't play much as a freshman until they started throwing bombs and they saw I could catch them. As a sophomore, they taught me the Wildcat offense, so I started playing running back, too. And then my junior year, I played defensive back along with the other two. Next year, I'm going to start at safety and wide receiver and running back, so I've got to train hard to make some plays out there.

ESPNHS: Which position do you like best?
Terry: I can't lie; I'd have to say running back right now because we play in a running offense and I want the ball so I can make something happen. In our offense, it's a quick way to get the ball. But at the next level, I think I'd be a good defensive back in college. Next season, I'll be working on my transition some to being on the defensive side, but really, it's wherever Georgia wants me to play.

ESPNHS: You committed to and then decommitted from Georgia before committing again in March. What went into your decision?
Terry: I'm happy with it and know I did the right thing. In some ways, Georgia was kind of like Clemson but more of a modern campus. All the guys were real cool, like to have fun and do things I like to do, like fishing. There wasn't any hating from the players because you know sometimes players don't like recruits because they think they are coming to take their spots. But everybody welcomes you in and makes you feel like part of the squad. I love it down there.

ESPNHS: What have the Georgia coaches told you about how they want to use you out on the field?
Terry: They said they are looking at me to probably be like Malcolm Mitchell, where I play offense first and then transition to be a defensive back in the next year or two. The good thing is that I'll be graduating early and enrolling in the spring, so I'll get a head start and be physically ready when the season comes.

ESPNHS: In the meantime, how do you plan to build on the success from this past fall at three different positions, especially with more defenses targeting you?
Terry: Well, I'm not the only guy on the team. I just happen to be the most well-known senior, but we've got so many other weapons. They better not just worry about me. I'm still going to do my thing and produce, though, and make plays.

TRAMEL TERRY
School: Goose Creek (S.C.)
Class: 2013
Position: Wide receiver/running back/defensive back
HT: 5-11
WT: 193
College: Georgia

Brandon Parker covers high school sports for ESPNHS. Follow him on Twitter @brandoncparker or email him at brandon.c.parker@espn.com.

Good Counsel (Olney, Md.) junior Dorian O’Daniel knows all about the importance of tradition.

And it’s tradition that’s helped the Falcons become one of the nation’s top football programs. Specifically, it’s the upperclassmen’s job to pass along all the integral knowledge, like what makes Good Counsel so successful, to the talented newcomers.

So that means spending extra time in the weight room and studying the playbook off the field and then filling your role come game time.

O’Daniel, who moved from Pittsburgh in the seventh grade, was taught all of that coming up at Good Counsel, and now he’s sharing all he’s learned to the underclassmen. And that will be especially important this season as the young Falcons look to replace several talented players from a team that finished undefeated for first time in school history, captured its third straight Washington Catholic Athletic Conference title and was ranked No. 5 in the POWERADE FAB 50.

Rated the nation’s No. 73 recruit in the ESPN 150, O’Daniel played a huge role on last season’s team while splitting time at running back and outside linebacker. He finished with 897 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns on 127 carries (7.1 yards per carry) and 38.5 tackles (15.5 for loss) and five sacks on defense.

This will be O’Daniel’s first season as a full-time starter at both positions this fall, and he and the likes of teammate Kendall Fuller, the No. 27 recruit in the ESPN 150, will look to make sure Good Counsel keeps up its winning ways.

O’Daniel made sure there won’t be any distractions by committing to Clemson in April. And his focus was on display at the Baltimore Nike Football Training Camp, where he earned an invite to The Opening.

Get Familiar with the two-way standout to see what he’s looking forward to this year.

ESPNHS: What does it mean to play for Good Counsel?
O’Daniel: It’s truly a blessing just to be a part of Good Counsel. One of the first things people think about Good Counsel is they produce good student-athletes, and to be a part of that is a good feeling.

ESPNHS: How would you describe what you were able to accomplish last year and how can you do more of the same this fall?
O’Daniel: Coming into the season, we knew everyone was going to try to knock us off the top, so we had to play extra hard every week. It’s more of a responsibility for us this year. We have big shoes to fill. Everyone is going to have to play their role. We’re making sure the young guys are in the weight room every day. You have to start this bond early so things will click once the season starts.

I’m looking forward to (this year) a lot. It’s my senior year. I’m not going to get any games back, so I’m going to leave it all out on the field.

ESPNHS: What led you to pick Clemson?
O’Daniel: Just going down there and getting the whole experience, I got a good vibe. It felt like a family atmosphere. It felt like home, honestly. If I’m spending four years in college, I want to feel comfortable there. There’s more to life than football. I’m focusing on getting a good education at Clemson and being productive in football.

ESPNHS: Have you talked to the coaching staff about letting you play a little running back?
O’Daniel: Right now, it’s strictly linebacker. The thought has crossed my mind about playing both ways.

ESPNHS: Does it help having teammates like Kendall Fuller going through the process with you and are you trying to get him to commit to Clemson now?
O’Daniel: Kendall is my brother. Just to talk about recruiting and comparing and contrasting thoughts to mine is huge. I’m in his ear about Clemson all the time. But it’s all fun and games right now.

ESPNHS: Who do you credit the most for getting you to this point?
O’Daniel: My mom, Kerri. She’s made so many sacrifices for me. I owe it all to her. She stood by me through the whole recruiting process. She’s put a lot on the line to help me.

DORIAN O’DANIEL
School: Good Counsel (Olney, Md.)
Class: 2013
Position: Running back/outside linebacker
HT: 6-1
WT: 205
College: Clemson

FAVORITES
TV Show: “Gruden QB Camp”
Movie: “Friday”
Musical Artist: Juicy J
Athlete: Reggie Bush
Pro Team: Pittsburgh Steelers
School Subject: English
Food: Steak and potatoes

With a name like Taco, it’s hard not to get noticed. But Taco Charlton is also drawing attention for his play on the football field.

Charlton, whose real first name is Vidauntaé and was given the nickname by his grandmother, is rated the nation’s No. 9 defensive end by ESPN and the No. 115 overall recruit in the ESPN 150.

The 6-foot-6, 240-pound junior from Pickerington Central (Pickerington, Ohio) shined on the gridiron this past fall, helping the Tigers to a Division I state runner-up finish. And he showed off his athleticism as the starting center on the Pickerington Central basketball team that captured its first state title in March.

Charlton has impressed throughout the offseason, earning All-Camp honors at the Long Beach Nike Football Training Camp on April 1 and then shining this past Saturday at the Columbus NFTC, where he snagged an invite to The Opening.

Charlton also got the attention of his family, many of whom are Ohio State fans, by committing to Michigan in February.

So what’s this defensive dynamo have in store for the rest of this year? Get Familiar with Taco Charlton.

ESPNHS: Who gave you your nickname?
Charlton: It came from my grandmother. It’s different. Nobody forgets it.

ESPNHS: What led a kid who grew up near Ohio State to pick Michigan?
Charlton: I just love the coaches there. I believe they can get me to the next level. It’s a great family atmosphere on the team, the fans there are crazy about their team and my parents love the academics. I always had Michigan as my leader. That’s where I really wanted to play. My whole family is Ohio State fans. At first they didn’t like it, but they’re starting to come along. They have scarlet and grey around their houses. I’m going to try to get them to change that.

ESPHS: How much does the loss in the state finals sting?
Charlton: It’s making us work even harder this year. We’re trying to get back there and win it this time. I won a state title in basketball in March, and I believe we can do that in football this year. I have to be a coach on the field. I want my senior year to be successful.

ESPNHS: What did it feel like to win a state title in basketball?
Charlton: To win the first state title in school history was crazy. Our school deserved it. We had a huge pep rally. Our coach got the key to the city. It was great to see. I got to go up against (2012 Michigan signee) Chris Wormley in the finals. It was a good matchup. I’ll tease him about it at Michigan.

ESPNHS: Why do you continue to compete at camps with all you’ve proven and having already committed to Michigan?
Charlton: I just love to compete and have fun. This is one of the few chances I can get to go against the best linemen in the country. And there’s the whole teaching aspect.

TACO CHARLTON
School: Pickerington Central (Pickerington, Ohio)
Class: 2013
Position: Defensive end
HT: 6-6
WT: 240
College: Michigan

FAVORITES
TV Show: “The Game”
Movie: “He Got Game”
Musical Artist: Meek Mill
Athlete: LeBron James
Team: Michigan
School Subject: Math
Food: Chipotle burritos

Despite rushing for 1,300 yards and 17 touchdowns last season, Alvin Kamara understands if he's overlooked at times. In fact, the Norcross (Ga.) junior tailback says it's a given, considering the top two players in the ESPN 150 -- Robert Nkemdiche and Reuben Foster -- also starred in Georgia last year. But that doesn't stop Kamara from believing he's the best.

That's why his goals entering the Atlanta NFTC on April 20 were simple -- win the MVP for his position and earn an invite to The Opening. Kamara did just that, using his power and rushing skills to achieve both his goals and stand out among some of the region's best players.

BCS football programs are plenty familiar with Kamara, who once received more than 100 recruiting letters in one day from Alabama. And come this fall, the 5-foot-10, 190-pound rusher is confident that the entire nation will also get familiar with this emerging star.

ESPNHS: What was clicking for you that allowed you to win the running back MVP at the Atlanta NFTC?
Kamara: The way I prepared prior to the NFTC really helped. We do workouts every morning at Norcross -- the same type of stuff we did at the NFTC, like bag work and running cuts and drills, so it was almost like another workout and I was probably better prepared than most. Also, my confidence and the way I approach things helped. I feel like I'm the best. And that's in no type of cocky manner. I just go out to be the best in everything that I do and I think that's what separated me.

ESPNHS: What was your favorite part and what was the hardest part of the camp?
Kamara: My favorite part was the one-on-ones with the linebackers. That's what everybody was waiting for, being able to run plays and routes because either you were going to get the ball or get embarrassed. The hardest part was probably the blocking drills. You didn't really know what to expect at first. I wasn't really ready the first time and the guy went right past me. So I had to refocus and get serious after that so no one else would get by me.

ESPNHS: How big is it in your development as a player to get an invite to The Opening?
Kamara: It feels great. I mean, those are the top 150 prospects in the nation, so to get invited to be a part of that is great. And I feel like with my performance at the NFTC, I definitely earned it.

ESPNHS: You're ranked number 79 in the ESPN 150 among a lot of other Georgia players. How do you feel about where you're ranked?
Kamara: I kind of just busted onto the scene whereas guys like Reuben (Foster) and (Robert) Nkemdiche have been on the map, so I understand and I'm not mad about it. But I'm going to work hard so I can move on up toward the top with some of those guys.

ESPNHS: Last year, you had a star receiver in Jason Croom who got a lot of attention from defenses. Now that's he graduated, all eyes will be on you. How do you plan on adjusting to the extra attention while still being effective?
Kamara: I saw Jason deal with it last year with all the attention he had on him, and he handled it real well. That's what I plan to do -- just stay humble and lead my team the best way I can so we can win.

ESPNHS: What is your biggest strength and what's something you want to improve upon?
Kamara: I'll start with what I want to improve on -- my lateral movement. I'm more of a straight ahead, speed and power guy, so I need to work on the lateral part of my game. I'd say my strength is my vision and speed as a runner.

ESPNHS: Your recruitment has received a lot of attention recently, from the 100 letters from Alabama to you saying that you, Foster and Tray Matthews plan on going to the same college. Where does your recruitment stand right now?
Kamara: My recruitment is still wide open. I'm just enjoying the process, going through it and talking to the schools that are looking at me. I'm trying to learn everything I can learn about each school. As far as me, Reuben and Tray, that's something we want to do and we've flirted with the issue a little. I know they are committed to different schools right now, but if it comes down to us wanting to play together, it will happen. But we'll see.

ALVIN KAMARA
School: Norcross (Ga.)
Class: 2013
Position: Running back
HT: 5-10
WT: 190

FAVORITES
Movie: "The Blind Side"
Car: Black Dodge Challenger
Food: Chicken
Athlete: Tiger Woods ("I've seen some interviews and videos of him and the way he talks about being the best and saying nobody can beat him, I like that.")
Team: Green Bay Packers
Subject: Language Arts

Brandon Parker covers high school sports for ESPNHS magazine and ESPNHS.com. Follow him on Twitter @brandoncparker or email him at brandon.c.parker@espn.com.

A sojourn is traditionally understood to mean a temporary stay or short visit. But in the case of Sojourn Shelton, a star cornerback for Plantation (Fla.), he’s planning on a long football journey that transitions from Friday nights to Saturday afternoons, with a hopeful eye on playing on Sundays in the future.

The 5-foot-9, 152-pound dynamo played big at the Miami Nike Football Training Camp on April 15, earning some serious accolades. Not only did Shelton take home the positional MVP in a deep and talented group of defensive backs, he also earned top billing on the All-Camp team and a coveted invite to The Opening.

With a busy offseason ahead of him and his senior season just months away, it’s time to Get Familiar with one of the Sunshine State’s rising stars.

ESPNHS: What are your goals in this final offseason of your high school career?
Shelton: My motivation this offseason is to improve everyday and become the best player that I can be. You can never rest on what you have accomplished. I’m so excited to have been invited to The Opening and know from my friends Tracy Howard and Duke Johnson and others on my 7-on-7 team that went to it last summer that it’s a special event and a special honor to go there. But at the same time I can’t be satisfied. Motivation comes to me in so many ways; with the ESPN 150 coming out and me not being on it, I feel as though I should be on there and I’m determined to get there.

ESPNHS: What are the goals for Plantation in 2012?
Shelton: Man, making the playoffs for one. Our team goal as seniors is definitely to make the playoffs, especially since we haven’t made them since I’ve been in high school. Just talking to my friends on other teams who have been in the playoffs, and in Florida down here high school ball is so important, it is the type of pressure I want to be a part of and experience that win-or-go home feeling of the playoffs.

ESPNHS: Is there a unique mentality to playing corner?
Shelton: The island mentality is to never let anyone beat you. On every single play when you are out there one-on-one as a corner the risk is six points on every play. There is nothing between me and the end zone, and getting beat can lead to six really quick. You have to have that confidence level knowing you are there to stop the guy you line up against. What I really like is that it’s a position that demands not just ability but confidence. The idea is that I have to protect my island.

ESPNHS: Florida has been known to produce talented players that bring a distinct swagger and confidence to the field. What is it about the football culture there that contributes to this?
Shelton: Everybody down here is competitive and the culture of football down here demands the best of you. The most simple way to put it is that in Florida football everyone wants to be the best and with so much talent you are always being challenged. It’s not that you face a team and they have one guy that is really good, it’s all over the field and everywhere you look you see that. We have that swagger and mentality that down here in the Sunshine State we are the best in the U.S. and when we get around players from all over the country it’s show time and we are always ready to compete.

ESPNHS: Even though you verbally committed to Florida State back in June, you seem to be keeping your options open as you head into your senior campaign. What are your priorities in the recruiting process?
Shelton: My main priority with the recruiting process is to keep an open mind and not close any doors. This is a huge decision and there’s no turning back once it’s clear where I’ll be spending the next four years of my life. I also have to consider how fast can I get on the field and feel really comfortable with the coaching. I also look to the college atmosphere and academics and want to become a stronger and better person all around during the process. There are a lot of things that go into the process, but with my ultimate goal being to play in the NFL one day, that takes the experience of college and playing time is the key to gaining that experience.

Sojourn Shelton
School: Plantation (Fla.)
Class: 2013
Position: Cornerback
HT: 5-9
WT: 152

FAVORITES
TV Show: Whatever is on ESPN or NFL Network
Movie: “The Dark Knight” & "He Got Game"
Athlete: Darrelle Revis
Song: “All Of The Lights” by Kanye West
Food: A great steak that doesn't need any A1

Jayron Kearse has never had to go far for expert advice.

That’s what happens when your uncle Jevon Kearse was a three-time Pro Bowler and your cousin Phillip Buchanon is a current NFL cornerback.

And this offseason, Jayron is taking in any advice he can, from both his family and from coaches, as he learns a new position.

At Cypress Lake (Fort Myers, Fla.), Kearse played safety his freshman season and quarterback the past two years. But after transferring to South Fort Myers (Fla.) in January, the 6-foot-3, 190-pound junior has been prepping to play the spot he’ll be playing this fall and is expected to play in college — wide receiver.

Kearse has been able to focus on strictly on-field stuff the past few months after switching his pledge from Auburn to Miami in January.

Now he’s aiming to follow in the footsteps of current Clemson star Sammy Watkins as the next great receiver from South Fort Myers.

Get Familiar with Kearse before he heads off to work on his game.

ESPNHS: What was it like growing up with an uncle and a cousin in the NFL?
Kearse: It helped a bunch just knowing what it takes to get to the NFL. You’ve got to have great character, be a hard worker and be able to separate yourself from people who don’t have your best interests. Go your own way and don’t follow the wrong people. They also told me that average people don’t make it to the NFL. I’m trying to be more than average.

ESPNHS: How have they helped you the most?
Kearse: My cousin told me to base my decision on all aspects of college — the school, the environment and academics, not just football. Hearing it from him helps a lot. He never told me one time about going to The U. He said to pick the school that fits me the best. My uncle was basically the same. Jevon has told me to stay humble through the whole process. I don’t want to make it seem like I’m better than anybody else.

ESPNHS: What led you to switch from Auburn to Miami?
Kearse: When [Auburn] lost coach (Gus) Malzahn, I didn’t know what my role would have been with them. With Miami, I knew what I would come into and what role I would have based on the year Tommy Streeter had with them, because he’s a big receiver like I am. I like the coaching staff and what coach (Al) Golden is doing with the program. I also like their academic programs. They have one of the top communication programs in the country and that’s what I want to major in.

ESPNHS: How difficult has the transition been from quarterback to wide receiver?
Kearse: It hasn’t been too difficult because I played wide receiver in Pop Warner. But I’m a step behind when it comes to in-game experience as far as running routes. I run a bunch of routes and catch a hundred passes a day after I work out. The toughest part is the concentration. Running routes across the field when people are trying to take your head off is hard. I have people jump out at me when I’m practicing running routes.

ESPNHS: Will you miss playing quarterback at all?
Kearse: When I got to high school, the position they threw me at was quarterback. They wanted the ball in my hands so I could make things happen, so I understood why they put me there. I’ll miss quarterback a little, but it’s nothing I can’t get over.

ESPNHS: Do you feel any pressure to match what Sammy Watkins did at South Fort Myers?
Kearse: I think our playing styles are totally different. He has more speed, but I think I’m more physical. I’m not trying to live up to what he did. I’m trying to be the best I can be since this is really my first year playing wide receiver.

JAYRON KEARSE
School: South Fort Myers (Fla.)
Class: 2013
Position: Wide receiver
HT: 6-3
WT: 190
College: Miami

FAVORITES
TV Show: “The Game”
Movie: “The Blind Side”
Musical Artist: Young Jeezy
Athletes: Calvin Johnson & Robert Woods
School Subject: Math

Growing up, Steven Mitchell dreamed of being the next great running back from Southern California.

But during the summer heading into his sophomore year at Bishop Alemany (Mission Hills, Calif.), Mitchell was switched to wide receiver by his head coach, who believed Mitchell had the potential to be a star at the position.

Turned out to be a good decision.

Now a 5-foot-10, 177-pound junior, Mitchell is considered one of the nation’s top receivers and is an ESPNU 150 Watch List recruit. Mitchell currently holds offers from the likes of Washington, Notre Dame, Oklahoma, Texas A&M and Cal.

Mitchell does most of his damage from the slot, where he uses his speed and route-running skills to burn past safeties and linebackers. This past season, he caught 50 passes for 1,006 yards and scored 17 total touchdowns.

But all Mitchell remembers from his junior season is how it ended. Bishop Alemany went undefeated in the tough Serra League but was upset by St. John Bosco (Bellflower, Calif.) in the first round of the CIF Southern Section Pac-5 Division playoffs.

Bosco featured senior receiver Bryce Treggs, a Cal recruit rated the nation’s No. 25 wideout in the Class of 2012 by ESPNU. Mitchell spoke to Treggs for the first time after the game and the two have since become friends, training together this offseason.

The work Mitchell has done with Treggs and his Bishop Alemany teammates this offseason has already paid big dividends. On April 1, he was named the wide receiver MVP and earned an invitation to The Opening while at the Los Angeles Nike Football Training Camp.

But Mitchell is far from satisfied with his accomplishments. Get Familiar with the converted running back to see what he’s got planned for this season.

ESPNHS: When did you first know you wanted to be a receiver?
Mitchell: All the way up to my sophomore year, I was a running back. I always wanted to be like Reggie Bush. I played running back my freshman year, and when they called me up to varsity my sophomore year, my coach told me I had receiver talent. I liked that when I caught the ball, I could make people look bad.

ESPNHS: How do you make up for your lack of prototypical size at the position?
Mitchell: With my agility and shiftiness. Most of the guys who cover me are safeties and outside linebackers. Whenever they see me, they underestimate me. It makes me play even harder and faster. People used to joke around about my size, but once I got on the football field, that joking stopped.

ESPNHS: How would you describe your performance at the LA NFTC, especially against such a loaded field of defensive backs?
Mitchell: The defensive backs were good, but I felt like I did a very good job. And when I go to The Opening, I feel like I have to show out again and prove myself. I feel like I have to prove myself whenever I step on the field. When I saw The Opening on TV last year, I told my dad I was going to work so hard to get to that camp. When I got the invitation, I was ecstatic.

ESPNHS: How motivated are you after last year’s first-round playoff loss?
Mitchell: We were pretty down. We all know we could have won that game. The day after the game, we decided we had to get it right. We have to play more as a team. This year, we’ve made a commitment to the team and we’re going to work hard throughout the year.

ESPNHS: What did you learn from watching Bryce Treggs in the loss to St. John Bosco?
Mitchell: He’s a great receiver. I just wanted to show we had great receivers in our class, too. I tried to play to the best of my potential — we just came up short. After the game was the first time we met. He said I was a very good athlete and he was going to follow me throughout my senior year. It was a good experience. I’ve trained with him since then. It helps me a lot. He’s a great router runner and I try to get all the teaching I can get.

ESPNHS: Who do you credit for getting you to this point?
Mitchell: I have to credit my parents for all they’ve done for me. They’ve supported me my entire life. They come to every practice and all of my games. It helps me a lot, because I know that not everybody has a mother and father to support them like do.

STEVEN MITCHELL
School: Bishop Alemany (Mission Hills, Calif.)
Class: 2013
Position: Wide receiver
HT: 5-10
WT: 177

FAVORITES
TV Show: “Martin”
Movie: “The Lion King”
Athlete: Reggie Bush
School Subject: Math
Pro Team: Pittsburgh Steelers
Food: Cabbage & cornbread

Few things are certain in high school football, but it’s always safe to assume North Allegheny (Wexford, Pa.) is going to be in the state-title discussion.

Last season, the Tigers lost in the Class AAAA state semifinals by three points and finished No. 49 in the POWERADE FAB 50. And this fall, with many of their skill players returning, the Tigers will again be among the favorites to bring home the hardware.

One of the biggest reasons for the team’s consistent success is an always-strong offensive line, and junior offensive lineman Patrick Kugler is as good as you’ll find in the nation. The ESPNU 150 Watch List recruit and Michigan commit was named an ESPNHS Underclass All-American this past fall.

Kugler’s father, Sean, is the offensive line coach for the Pittsburgh Steelers. And his brother, Robert, is currently in his first season at center at Purdue.

Clearly, it’s a family that knows the O-line. And Patrick might be the best of the bunch.

“He’s one of those guys who just loves to play,” says North Allegheny head coach Art Walker. “He plays hard every snap, he’s physical, he’s aggressive, and he’s a good locker room guy as well.

What makes this stellar junior one of the nation’s top offensive linemen? It’s time to Get Familiar with Patrick Kugler.

ESPNHS: How’s the offseason going? What are you up to so far?
Kugler: It’s been going really good. I’ve been doing some lifting, and this summer I’m hoping to play some AAU football. I’m staying busy.

ESPNHS: Is there a specific goal behind your lifting? Are you trying to get bigger, just gain strength, or just kind of stay where you’re at now?
Kugler: I’m definitely always trying to get stronger, and right now I’m just trying to mold my body. I have a little bit of a gut, and it would be awesome to get rid of that right now and just mold my body into a college-type body instead of a big wide-body high school hooligan.

ESPNHS: You play at a school — North Allegheny — that is always right in the state title discussion. What are your expectations for this upcoming season?
Kugler: If we don’t win a championship, it’s an unsuccessful season. We’ve got a great team coming back this season — great quarterback, great running game, great receivers and a great defense. The only question is going to be who starts on that offensive line, and obviously I’ll be there, and hopefully I can help give us a great shot at winning state.

ESPNHS: What are some of the things you think you need to work on before you get to college?
Kugler: Technically, I always want to improve on my pass blocking. I think we’re going to pass a lot more this year because we have a good quarterback and good receivers, and so that’s something I’m going to need to improve on. After that, it’s just keeping my feet underneath me and not losing my balance.

ESPNHS: Tell us about the process that went into your college decision.
Kugler: Well, I committed to Michigan a month ago, and it’s been nice having it over with and not having to talk to any other coaches.

ESPNHS: What were your favorite and least favorite parts of the whole process?
Kugler: My favorite part was just learning about all of the different schools, some prestigious programs. And my least favorite part was having to talk to all of these people who were trying to recruit me and continuously having to talk to people even if I knew I wasn’t going to their school.

ESPNHS: You’re from a family that knows its offensive line, between your dad and your brother. What are those conversations around the dinner table like?
Kugler: My dad doesn’t really talk a lot of football with us. We’re not criticized unless we ask for it, and then he’ll give us his two cents. But he’ll help us work out and improve. It’s not forced.

ESPNHS: Your brother just went through this whole recruiting process. How was he able to help you?
Kugler: He’s definitely really helped. He told me all sorts of schools to look at, and he told me what were some fun schools to go to and check out. He’s happy I chose a Big Ten school.

ESPNHS: You won’t line up directly against him, but is Purdue-Michigan the new rivalry now?
Kugler: Oh, definitely. We’re looking forward to it.

Patrick Kugler
School: North Allegheny (Wexford, Pa.)
Position: OL
HT: 6-4
WT: 280
College: Michigan

FAVORITES
TV Show: “Family Guy”
Athlete: Maurkice Pouncey
Sports Team: Pittsburgh Steelers
Food: Steak
Video Game: “Assassin’s Creed”

When people started calling North Little Rock (Ark.) running back Altee Tenpenny "Boobie Miles," he didn't think much of it. After all, he loved the movie "Friday Night Lights" and he possesses rushing skills similar to the brash, real-life Permian (Texas) tailback, so the moniker fit.

But when Tenpenny went down with a fractured fibula and dislocated ankle during a preseason scrimmage last fall, the junior's nickname took on a whole different meaning.

"People really started calling me 'Boobie Miles' after the injury," said Tenpenny, who was forced to sit out the entire 2011 season. "Matter of fact, I watched the movie a couple times and since I'd been through an injury like him, I could relate to him. I could understand that feeling and it made me see things in a different light."

Unlike Miles, whose season-ending ACL injury came during his senior year, Tenpenny still has another season under his belt to show that he's still got it. As a sophomore, Tenpenny rushed for 1,151 yards and 15 touchdowns, leading him to be selected as one of just three juniors at The Opening last summer and for the likes of Alabama, Arkansas and Oklahoma State to offer scholarships before he committed to the Crimson Tide in January.

Before he took part in the Nike Football SPARQ Combine at Cowboys Stadium this past weekend, Tenpenny took some time out with us to discuss his injury, his recovery and how it all affected the recruiting process.

ESPNHS: How did the injury happen?
Tenpenny: We had a scrimmage at school before last season and I was running with the ball. One of my teammates dove to tackle me and unfortunately, he grabbed my shoulder pads and horse-collared me to where I hurt my right ankle and fractured my fibula.

ESPNHS: What was going through your mind at that moment?
Tenpenny: I was just thinking, "Lord, please let me be able to play football again." I was blessed that it was just a break of my bone instead of anything really major. I'm just glad I can still play football.

ESPNHS: What was it like sitting out on the sideline all of last season?
Tenpenny: It was very tough, just knowing that no matter how my team was doing, whether good or bad, I still couldn't help them. I just tried to support them as much as I could. I had to keep praying and surrounding myself with positivity. My teammates were always real positive, so that helped a lot.

ESPNHS: What was the reaction from some of the college coaches recruiting you?
Tenpenny: Immediately after, my high school coach and I met with a couple coaches and called some others, and they all said that nothing had changed. I just started crying, but they were good tears because I was happy that I still had a future in football.

ESPNHS: How's your recovery coming along at this point?
Tenpenny: My recovery is coming along well. I still have a few kinks and some minor pain in my leg. Right now, I can run about three-quarters speed and I can cut better than I could before, so I feel like I'm close to becoming 100 percent.

ESPNHS: What was the key to you breaking out as a sophomore?
Tenpenny: Just my faith in God. Also, the faith I had in my teammates and the faith my coaches had in me. It sort of surprised me, but overall I knew I had it in me.

ESPNHS: What was your experience at The Opening like last summer?
Tenpenny: It was great. I love to compete, so what better way to compete than against 150 of the top players in the nation? My favorite part was coming in second [in the SPARQ Finals] and talking to guys like Ray Rice, Aaron Curry and Jerry Rice.

ESPNHS: What went into your decision to commit to Alabama?
Tenpenny: I've always been a big fan of them. There's a lot of tradition at that school, my family said they enjoyed it when they went, and the coaches, fans and players I met were all real cool. It just felt like the right place for me.

ESPNHS: Did your injury have anything to do with you committing early?
Tenpenny: No, not really. I just didn't want to focus on all the letters and who's interested in me during my senior year. I wanted to have that out of the way and focus on winning a state championship with my team.

ALTEE TENPENNY
School: North Little Rock (Ark.)
Class: 2013
Position: Running back
HT: 6-0
WT: 200
College: Alabama

FAVORITES
Movie: “Friday Night Lights”
Athlete: Chris Johnson
School Subject: English
Food: Cheese dip
Team: San Diego Chargers
Song: "Hometown Hero" by Big K.R.I.T.

Brandon Parker covers high school sports for ESPNHS magazine and ESPNHS.com. Follow him on Twitter @brandoncparker or email him at brandon.c.parker@espn.com.

Braxton Berrios is making a habit of stepping up when the opportunity presents itself.

As a fifth-grader, he helped guide his Pop Warner team, the Capital City Steelers, to a national championship.

Then this past fall, the Leesville Road (Raleigh, N.C.) sophomore receiver/safety took over as the team’s starting quarterback after his brother Austin, a senior, tore his ACL returning the opening kickoff in the regular season finale. Braxton ran for 245 yards in the 41-16 victory over Wake Forest-Rolesville (Wake Forest, N.C.) to lead the Pride to their first outright conference title.

Berrios finished the year rushing for 1,251 yards and 21 touchdowns and tallying 519 receiving yards and four scores.

And once the season ended after a loss to Garner (N.C.) in the Class 4AA eastern regional final, Berrios got to work. It showed on March 10 at the Nike Football SPARQ Combine in Charlotte when he posted the highest SPARQ rating (119.52) of all the competitors.

Now the buzz is starting to build for the 5-foot-10, 170-pounder. What does he plan to do to keep the momentum going?

Get Familiar with Braxton Berrios.

ESPNHS: What was it like winning a Pop Warner national championship?
Berrios: Back then, you’re young and don’t realize the importance of what it’s going to mean. When the clock struck zero, it was an indescribable feeling.

ESPNHS: Describe what it was like watching your brother go through his knee injury.
Berrios: He went down on the opening kickoff. I was in front blocking for him and he yelled. I knew he was out for the game after I heard that. He was the leader. When we found out he had a torn ACL, it was devastating. The two of us had this dream to lead Leesville Road to a championship. To have it end like it did, it sucked.

ESPNHS: What did his injury teach you about playing the game?
Berrios: It was over in a split second, so play every second like it’s your last. He coached me the rest of the year. It was almost like he was on the field. It helped me a lot. He made me look good, I’m not going to lie.

ESPNHS: What was your mindset going into the Charlotte combine?
Berrios: You want to win it, but you can’t say going in that if you don’t, you failed. As long as I went in there and did what I thought I could and didn’t come out on top, that’s OK -- somebody had a better day. I was surprised and happy (after I finished first). It’s a great honor, but I know there’s still a lot to do.

I was in the car on my way to the mountains with my dad and uncle and I found out through Twitter that I finished with the highest score. It was relieving to say the least.

ESPNHS: Has your performance led to any early offers?
Berrios: I don’t have any offers yet. Hopefully it made a statement. But I really want that first one and everything will happen from there.

ESPNHS: What are your goals now after your successful combine?
Berrios: It motivates me. Normally you don’t see a guy win a combine without any hype around them. Now that I won that, what else can I do to show them? What else can I do to open their eyes?

BRAXTON BERRIOS
School: Leesville Road (Raleigh, N.C.)
Class: 2014
Position: Wide receiver/safety
HT: 5-10
WT: 170

FAVORITES
TV Show: “The King of Queens”
Movie: “The Pursuit of Happyness”
Athlete: Ray Lewis
School Subject: Math
Food: Steak

Jake Oliver loves to block. In fact, the 6-foot-4, 200-pound wide receiver says one of his biggest thrills each Friday night is getting a chance to knock a defender on his back.

Oliver also loves to catch passes. And the Jesuit (Dallas) junior catches a lot of passes.

This past season, he earned a spot on the ESPNHS Underclass All-American team after hauling in 108 passes for 1,637 yards and 24 touchdowns, numbers that most high school receivers would be happy to have in a career. Oliver has snagged 215 passes during his three years with the Rangers.

Oliver has learned a lot about being a wide receiver from his father, Gary, a former standout wideout at Texas A&M who later served as offensive coordinator at Sam Houston State and led Bishop Lynch (Dallas) to two state titles.

The ESPNU 150 Watch List receiver also had plenty of support from his dad and the rest of his family during the recruiting process. Though Oliver’s father and mother both attended A&M and his brother is a student at Oklahoma, he says none them tried to sway him toward their respective schools.

Instead, they let him handle recruiting on his own terms, and Oliver ultimately decided to commit to Texas last month.

So what does Oliver plan on doing now that his commitment is out of the way? Get Familiar with the standout pass-catcher.

ESPNHS: What’s the most important thing you learned from your father about playing wide receiver?
Oliver: You can have all the athletic talent in the world, but if you can’t get open, it will all go to waste. Practice makes you better all the time. Even going out for 30 minutes helps you a lot. I always catch and throw with my dad. I turn to my left and my right, over-the-shoulder catches — every situation I could be in during a game, he throws me that pass. Every possible catch I can think of, we’ve worked on it. We also work with tennis balls. It teaches you reflexes and hand-eye coordination.

ESPNHS: What’s an underrated aspect of your game?
Oliver: I take a lot of pride in my blocking. I’m a big receiver, and blocking has to be a big part of my game. If you block for your teammates, it can set up big plays. I also like to get after the DBs just to let ‘em know that I’ll be there all night and they better be ready. I love contact and love knocking people down.

ESPNHS: How do you deal with all the attention on the field?
Oliver: Almost every game I see double coverage. You’ve got to fight through it. But I could get zero catches and be happy as long as we got the win. Coach (Brandon) Hickman puts me in good position to run the right routes and break these coverages. You’ve got adjust. It’s usually the corner pressing me and then the safety coming over the top (to help).

ESPNHS: How relieved were you after you committed to Texas?
Oliver: It was a big weight lifted off my shoulders. There were a lot of things to think about leading up to the decision. Everybody trying to sway you, just thinking about what would be the best place to be — it was kind of overwhelming. Texas was always up there with my favorite schools, but since they didn’t offer until their junior day, I wasn’t sure. Once they offered, it was really cool. Not too many people can say that’s happened to them, and I feel blessed it happened to me.

I can’t imagine being anywhere else. My grandparents come to all my games and I’d love for them to come see my college games. It’s got a great tradition, great family atmosphere and great academics. Those are just some of the many reasons why I picked Texas.

ESPNHS: How did your family deal with your recruitment?
Oliver: My dad loves A&M, but he said, “It’s your decision. It’s not up to me. I’ll support you no matter what." My mom and my brother said the same thing.

JAKE OLIVER
School: Jesuit (Dallas)
Class: 2013
Position: Wide receiver
HT: 6-4
WT: 200
College: Texas

FAVORITES
TV Show: “How I Met Your Mother”
Movie: “Dumb and Dumber” and “Friday Night Lights”
Musical Artists: Blake Shelton and Lil Wayne
Athletes: Calvin Johnson and Justin Blackmon
Team: Dallas Cowboys
School Subject: World history
Food: Chicken

On the heels of a successful season, Midland junior Steve Elmer didn’t spent much time relaxing. Instead, he hit the weight room.

The Notre Dame recruit stands tall at 6-foot-6 and 315 pounds and is a formidable presence on the offensive line. And not many defenders have had success getting past Elmer.

But that doesn’t mean he’s resting on his laurels. For him, his senior season is a chance to get better, improve on his technique and work on making the transition to the college game.

It shouldn’t be a tough transition. The offensive tackle is on the ESPNU 150 Watch List and was named to the ESPNHS Underclass All-American team as a junior, a year in which he led Midland to a 9-2 record and a spot in a Division 1 district championship.

Colleges continue to send letters to Elmer with the hopes they can still sway him from his Notre Dame commitment. But Elmer said he’s solid with the Irish and is looking forward to a dominant senior campaign.

So what else did one of the nation’s top offensive linemen in the Class of 2013 have to say? It’s time to Get Familiar with Steve Elmer.

ESPNHS: What’s keeping you busy in the offseason?
Elmer: I’m working a lot in the weight room, just trying to stay in shape. I’ve been working on a lot of agility drills and technique and footwork drills.

ESPNHS: Your junior season was really a breakout year for you. In your mind, what changed from your sophomore season to this year?
Elmer: I definitely got better as a player. I got stronger and faster and knew our offense better and definitely had better technique. The difference was night and day. In my spring camp after my sophomore season, I worked a lot on pass sets and run blocking and first steps. I didn’t really work on that much before. This season, my pass protection was way better overall and my run blocking was better, too.

ESPNHS: You’re committed to Notre Dame, but there have been stories recently that said other schools have picked up their recruitment of you. Have you softened your stance?
Elmer: I think [the stories are a] little misleading. I’m 99 percent with Notre Dame, and that other one percent is just schools sending me letters and stuff. It’s pretty crazy. One person gives their take on my recruitment and the next thing you know, you’ve got all sorts of weird stories out there. But I’m still committed to Notre Dame.

ESPNHS: What was it you liked about Notre Dame that made you choose so early?
Elmer: It was everything about it, really. I love the campus a lot. I like the coaches and the people and the tradition and the academics. Everything was a perfect fit for me.

ESPNHS: Have the Notre Dame coaches talked with you at all about what they are looking for you to improve on in your senior season?
Elmer: Not really. It’s kind of a weird situation. I haven’t really met the new O-line coach (Harry Hiestand) in person. I’ve talked to him on the phone. But I’m waiting to talk to him in person about specific things. I just know they want me to get bigger and faster.

ESPNHS: What are some of your expectations for Midland, and for yourself, this season?
Elmer: I expect my team to have another good year. Hopefully no losses. We’re playing a tougher schedule this year and we’ll be facing some different programs, and we’re looking forward to that. I’d like to keep up on my technique for pass sets, and for run blocking I’d like to improve my blocks on linebackers. I don’t think I get quite low enough.

ESPNHS: What do you do in your spare time?
Elmer: I don’t have a ton of spare time. When I’m not working out, I’m doing homework. But I like to fish, I like to hang out with my friends and play video games.

ESPNHS: In recruiting circles, you’re practically a household name now. Have you been surprised by how much attention you’ve gotten?
Elmer: It’s been pretty cool. You go online or you read the newspaper and there’s stories about you all the time. And to be able to go to all the places I’ve been to and see new places, that’s definitely cool. I didn’t let it all get too overwhelming, though. I made my (college) decision early.

STEVE ELMER
School: Midland (Mich.)
Class: 2013
Position: Offensive tackle
HT: 6-6
WT: 315
College: Notre Dame

FAVORITES
Food: Barbecue ribs
Movie: “Good Will Hunting”
Athlete: Tim Tebow
Video Game: “Battlefield 3”
Musical Artist: Billy Joel

Christopher Parish is an associate editor with ESPNHS. You can follow him on Twitter @CParishESPN.

When Cam Burrows began playing football in the second grade, his father started asking him where he wanted to go college.

Burrows’ answer then was Ohio State, and it was the same every other time his father inquired.

And on Jan. 15, when Burrows was in Columbus, Ohio, on an unofficial visit, his answer was once again the Buckeyes. Only this time he was telling Urban Meyer.

Burrows, now a junior cornerback at Trotwood-Madison (Trotwood, Ohio), made the commitment public four days later at an assembly at his school with his mom and dad by his side.

Dressed in a black suit with a red shirt and red-and-gray striped tie, the ESPNU 150 Watch List member started thinking during his announcement about the time his family was driving through Columbus when Burrows was nine. His dad, knowing his son was a big Buckeyes fan, stopped in the parking lot of the Horseshoe to show him where Ohio State plays.

It’s something Burrows says he’ll never forget, especially since he’ll be playing in that same building starting in the fall of 2013.

This past fall, Burrows earned All-Ohio first-team honors after tallying 46 tackles, 12 pass breakups and four interceptions and helping Trotwood-Madison win its first state title and finish the season No. 40 in the POWERADE FAB 50.

Burrows, who has a 3.5 GPA, said he plans on graduating early and enrolling at Ohio State in January. And with his commitment out of the way, he can now focus on leading the Rams to another state crown this fall.

Get Familiar with this future Buckeye.

ESPNHS: When did you first realize you could play football at an elite level?
Burrows: My freshman year I started out as a wide receiver, but I got hurt. When I came back, they had me on the scout team and I was burning the varsity defensive backs. One of the assistant coaches pulled me aside and said, “If you keep this up, you’ll be playing on Sundays.” That made me work harder and push through my workouts.

ESPNHS: What’s your favorite part of playing cornerback?
Burrows: I just like the challenge of being on an island all alone. Whether it’s zone or man or press, I like to get up in your face and be physical. I watch Patrick Peterson, Tyrann Mathieu, Darrelle Revis and Morris Claiborne. And Will Allen, who used to play at Ohio State and now plays for the Pittsburgh Steelers, is my mentor. He helped me with my recruiting process in terms of how to talk to coaches. It was a very big help.

ESPNHS: What type of mentality do you have to have as a cornerback?
Burrows: You have to have confidence and a short memory. Everyone is going to get beat. It’s just a matter of how you handle it. In the state championship game, the wide receiver did a comeback. I swatted at it, but he still caught it for a touchdown. I was like, “Wow, how did he catch it?” When that happens, you can’t keep going over it. It’s over.

ESPNHS: What was it like winning the first football state crown at Trotwood-Madison?
Burrows: It was so great because my brother, Chris (who runs track at Arizona State), won a state title in track and wore his medal around the house. I told him that I’d be getting mine soon. It was great getting to bring something home. It meant a lot to the community. We had a pep rally and the gym was full.

ESPNHS: How does this team stay hungry after winning state?
Burrows: We know that everything isn’t promised. We know everyone is gunning for us. We just have to play like we have a target on our backs. This year was good, but it would be great if we could do it again.

ESPNHS: Why did you pick Ohio State and why so early?
Burrows: I’ve always been an Ohio State fan growing up and it just topped it off when Urban Meyer got there. When I went on my unofficial visit and I was at the basketball game against Indiana, it just felt right. I want to win Big Ten championships and national championships. I feel like big things are going to come to Ohio State, and I want to be a part of it. I feel very relieved to be able to focus on school and not have to worry about where I’m going.

ESPNHS: Why graduate early?
Burrows: I have to take English 12 this summer and I’ll graduate in December. It will give me an advantage of getting ahead of my schoolwork and maybe be able to play as a true freshman. I have my goal, and that’s to make it to the NFL. I’m going to do whatever I can to achieve that goal.

ESPNHS: Who do you credit the most for getting you to this point?
Burrows: My parents and my brother. Just competing with my brother my entire life challenged me. My parents have always been there for me and pushed me to get good grades and to be successful. I don’t think I could have gotten here without them. They’re very excited I’m staying close to home.

CAM BURROWS
School: Trotwood-Madison (Trotwood, Ohio)
Class: 2013
Position: Wide receiver/cornerback
HT: 6-1
WT: 195
College: Ohio State

FAVORITES
TV Show: “SportsCenter”
Athlete: Patrick Peterson
School Subject: Math
Team: Philadelphia Eagles
Food: Chicken Parmesan

In a city known for triumphant underdogs, it's fitting that David Williams of West Catholic (Philadelphia) went from third on the depth chart at running back for the Burrs as a sophomore to star status early into his junior campaign this past fall. Now coveted by major college programs across the country, with an offer from Ohio State being the most recent evidence of this reality, the ESPNU 150 Watch List standout must navigate the process of making a difficult college decision.

But before he decides where he'll take his considerable talents on the college level, the speedy back -- who clocked a 4.44 40-yard dash at the Philadelphia Nike Football SPARQ Combine -- must first find a high school to attend for his senior season. West Catholic, which dates back to 1916, is closing its doors in a wave of Catholic school closings across the Philadelphia area.

Williams is mulling local powers like LaSalle (Wyndmoor, Pa.) and POWERADE FAB 50 powerhouse Archbishop Wood (Warminster, Pa.) as potential landing spots for his senior year. He says he finds value in this unique process as it helps him on the road to the next level.

It's time to Get Familiar with David Williams.

ESPNHS: Your game is a blend of power and speed. Is there a running back in the pros or on the college level that you model your style after?
Williams: It's DeMarco Murray, no doubt. He's a complete back; he's strong when you need those short yards but also versatile in the passing game. I guess I also identify with him being an underdog and when he got the chance with the Cowboys, he ran with it. I like when a back can show off speed but then also isn't afraid to drop that shoulder and play physical.

ESPNHS: With West Catholic closing after this school year, how are you navigating your next step in high school?
Williams: It's sad that my school and others in the area are closing. There will be a lot of talented players that have to find new schools and new teams after this year. But to get a positive out of it I have to see the side of all this that is helping prepare me for my college decision. It's like a smaller version of the college decision, with a lot of the same priorities being used. If I had to pick the two main factors for me right now, it would have to be the quality of the education at my next school and as a running back, of course, the offensive line on the team there. It's not something I was thinking about too much until lately because I had to focus on my team at West Catholic and my grades here, but I just want to find a place where I'm comfortable in the classroom and on a team that is in a position to win.

ESPNHS: You seem to have a lot of pride, like most guys from Philly, in your city and the brand of football that comes out of the area. Do you think the quality of the game from that side of the state deserves more props?
Williams: Football can be overlooked in Philly. Not just by basketball being a major sport around here, but also by Western Pennsylvania and the way people appreciate the game out there. But if you look at the past couple of years, this side of the state has had contenders in the state playoffs and even the championship games regularly, so it's also just a perception thing that the football in this area isn't as strong. It's definitely getting there. My school has shown well in the playoffs versus some teams across the state and just look at what Archbishop Wood and LaSalle have proven over the past few years.

DAVID WILLIAMS
School: West Catholic (Philadelphia)
Class: 2013
Position: Running back
HT: 6-1
WT: 185

FAVORITES
Movie: "Law Abiding Citizen"
TV Show: Anything on NFL Network
Song: "Who Gon Stop Me" by Jay-Z & Kanye West
Musical artist: Young Jeezy
Subject: Algebra

A lot of players say they love playing football, but after you talk to Celina (Texas) junior Jake Raulerson, you get the sense he truly means it.

The 6-foot-5, 253-pound right tackle/nose guard has felt that ever since he took up the sport in the third grade. And his passion for the game clearly shows on the field, where his combination of strength, athleticism and aggression has helped make him one of the nation’s top recruits.

Rated a five-star recruit in the Class of 2013 by RecruitingNation, Raulerson earned Class 3A All-State second team honors as a junior. And on Feb. 3, he committed to Texas over 27 other offers.

Raulerson said UT told him he could play anywhere from left tackle, center, defensive end or tight end for the Longhorns when he gets to Austin. He doesn’t have a preference for what position he plays — whatever gets him on the field to play the game he loves.

Get Familiar with this future Longhorn.

ESPNHS: When did you receive your first offer and how many are you up to now?
Raulerson: I’m at 28 offers. It’s pretty crazy. It’s been a great process and a lot of fun. My first offer was the summer of my sophomore year and I got offered by SMU. It was an awesome feeling knowing I’d be able to play college ball. I didn’t really think I’d have this many offers. It was definitely a shock when those kept coming in.

ESPNHS: What led you to pick Texas so early in the process?
Raulerson: I really like the coaching staff and it’s close to home. Coach (Mack) Brown is a very trustworthy guy. He promised me if I got hurt, they’d honor my scholarship and that’s huge. Not having to think about college, it gets the stress off me. Now I can focus on helping my team win a state championship.

ESPNHS: Where did the Texas coaching staff say you’d play for them?
Raulerson: They’ve talked to me about playing defensive end, tight end, left tackle and center. They said I was smart enough to be able to handle those positions. It’s humbling to hear that. It all depends on how I fill out. I don’t have a preference. Whatever gets me on the field and helps my team win a championship.

ESPNHS: What do you like about playing on the line?
Raulerson: It gives you the chance to knock someone in the mouth. It’s a lot of fun to get your aggression out. You don’t get a lot of credit, but you’ve got to be a man to play on the line.

ESPNHS: Can you describe what playing football means to you?
Raulerson: Football turns boys into men. It makes you a mature person and teaches you life skills. It gives you a feeling you don’t ever really feel. Football is life. If you don’t play 100 percent all of the time, you’re going to have regrets, and I don’t want to have regrets. The one quote that sticks with me is from New Orleans Saints head coach Sean Payton when he said in the Kenny Chesney video for “The Boys of Fall,” “You’ve got plenty of time for tomorrow. But these tonights, they’re going by fast. You focus on tonight.”

JAKE RAULERSON
School: Celina (Texas)
Class: 2013
Position: Right tackle/nose guard
HT: 6-5
WT: 253
College: Texas

FAVORITES
TV Show: “How I Met Your Mother”
Movie: “Remember the Titans”
Athletes: Ray Lewis & Tim Tebow
School Subject: Physics
Team: Dallas Cowboys
Food: Hamburger