It may seem like just another day to many, but for recruiting junkies, Jan. 15 marks the end of the dead period for college football coaches. According to the NCAA guidelines, the dead period runs from Dec. 15 until Jan. 15, and during that time, no in-person contact can occur between coaches and a prospect or the prospect’s parents.
So beginning Thursday, it’s a mad rush until signing day on Feb. 5.
Currently boasting 33 commitments/enrollees, Tennessee is focused on a select few individuals for the stretch run, one of which is consensus 4-star running back Darrell Scott from North Carolina.
Measuring 5-10 and weighing 180 pounds, the all-purpose back rushed for 2147 yards and 25 touchdowns on 229 carries during his senior season. For his career, Scott rushed for over 6000 yards and won three state championships.
South Carolina was believed to be his early leader, but after visiting Knoxville on Oct. 5 for the the Georgia game, Tennessee has been a legitimate contender.
#ESPN300 RB Derrell Scott … Think the #Vols are the favorite over #SouthCarolina headed into Jan. 17 official visit to #Gators.
— Gerry Hamilton (@HamiltonESPN) January 14, 2014
It’s still believed to be mainly a two-team race between Tennessee and South Carolina, with Tennessee ahead, but after losing a key recruit to the Seminoles, Will Muschamp and the Florida Gators have entered the picture. This presents an interesting scenario since Scott grew up following the Gators.
“I’ve always rooted for Florida,” Scott said. “I grew up liking Florida and watching them play when I was younger. I was excited to get the offer.”
Is it too little, too late for Florida? Time will tell, but we may know more after his visit to Gainesville this weekend.
Tennessee and South Carolina both have in-home visits set with Scott: Butch Jones on Jan. 22nd, with Steve Spurrier right afterward on Jan. 23rd.
Scott boasts an impressive offer list in addition to the teams listed above, including Florida State, Ohio State and N.C. State. He plans to announce his decision on Jan. 27th.
This is one Vol fans should definitely be watching closely.
ESPN EVALUATION
“Scott has the potential to develop into an every-down college back. However, we see him developing more into a dynamic weapon with hybrid-type potential working in and out of the slot and running back position in a multi-purpose type role. Has soft hands and polished receiving skills. A skill player you want to get creative with in a spread offense and create opportunities for in space. Also has the potential to get recruited at corner and should be an asset on special teams as a cover guy and returner.”
SCOUT EVALUATION
“Scott is a threat to go the distance every time he touches the ball. His quick feet and great vision make him a nightmare for defenders in the open field. Scott runs well inside the tackles and on the perimeter. He shows great balance and is an instinctive runner. Scott also catches the ball well out of the backfield. Overall, he is one of the most dynamic playmakers in the country. – Michael Clark”
FORUM THREAD: ’14 NC RB Darrell Scott