PINSON, Ala. - A few weeks ago, running back Nick Gibson (Pinson Ala./Pinson Valley) says he could see what he wanted to do before each snap. While he did not realize it at the time, the 5-11, 194-pound junior was on his way to one of the most dominating rushing performances in Alabama history, rushing 34 times for 464 yards and six touchdowns. His coach is pretty sure he leads the state in rushing through five games, with about 920 yards.
Tennessee, Kentucky, Florida State, Mississippi State and Arkansas have offered. Georgia, Clemson, Oregon, Vanderbilt, Cincinnati are among the schools that have shown interest in him this season. The old staff at Auburn offered Gibson, with Tommy Thigpen extending the offer again from Tennessee. When interviewed, Gibson was sporting an Alabama shirt, a program he grew up following.
Alabama is telling me to keep working hard and that they are interested in me, Gibson said. They want me to come out to their camp and get to know the coaching staff. An offer would mean a lot, but I would not just go there because I am a fan, which I am a big Alabama fan. I would explore all of my options.
The new staff at Auburn is evaluating Gibson.
I like Auburn too, Gibson said. I definitely like the new running back coach Tim Horton and I like the school too. I think they would be a good fit and if I went up there I could help turn the program around. An offer would also give me a chance to stay in-state near my family as well.
Another SEC program currently leads for Gibson.
The team I am favoring the most is Tennessee, Gibson said. They have really nice facilities, the coaches are cool and I like it there.