Linebackers, linemen highlight talent for class of 2008 recruits
With Kickoff 2007 here within hours, let's take a few minutes to get everyone caught up on the recruiting class of 2008.
The main tone of this recruiting class as we enter the start of the prep football season from a recruiting perspective? Almost done.
The Illinois Class of 2008 has already had a near-record number of prospects who have given schools their verbal commitments. Out of the latest Rivals.com Illinois Top 30 prospects, 19 have given schools a verbal pledge, including eight of the top 10 ranked prospects in the state.
The strength of this recruiting class position-wise? No question defensive linemen and linebackers are highly sought after and deep positions in the state. Out of the top 15 ranked prospects, defensive linemen and linebackers account for nine out of the top 15 players.
The college making the most noise so far? Hands down the University of Notre Dame. The Fighting Irish and coach Charlie Weis has landed early verbal commitment from three of the state's top five ranked prospects. Mt. Carmel senior linebacker Steven Filer along with St. Rita defensive end Darius Fleming and Marian Central Catholic defensive tackle Sean Cwynar are all pledged to the Irish.
ILL-INI?? Coach Ron Zook and staff have added verbal commitments so far from four highly ranked in-state prospects. Lemont offensive tackle Graham Pocic along with Simeon athlete Jack Ramsey, Mt. Carmel defensive end Glenn Foster and Simeon linebacker Nate Palmer have all pledged to the Fighting Illini.
Northwestern and second-year coach Pat Fitzgerald are loading up on offensive linemen with his latest group of in-state verbal pledges. The Wildcats have received verbal commitments from Loyola Academy offensive guard Brian Mulroe, Neuqua Valley offensive tackle Jeff Radek, Montini offensive tackle Chuck Porcelli, York offensive tackle Neil Deiters and Wheaton North offensive tackle Nick Adamle.
The NIU Huskies you ask? Veteran coach Joe Novak has received a verbal commitment from Lakes Community offensive guard Richard Hayes so far this fall.