On the Banks - Rutgers Recruiting: National Signing Day 2014 StoryStreamInsomnia for the sleeping giant.https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/50417/onthebanks-fav.png2015-01-11T07:30:02-05:00http://www.onthebanks.com/rss/stream/51445692015-01-11T07:30:02-05:002015-01-11T07:30:02-05:00The Once and Future(?) Scarlet Knight
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/iVYGXINK_RlaBh5jx-VRNWvuIXw=/0x401:2232x1889/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/45194278/usa-today-8120323.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Adonis Jennings is no longer a Pittsburgh Panther. Might the former Rutgers commit once again pledge to the Scarlet Knights? </p> <p><span>Adonis Jennings</span> was one of the stars in a star-studded 2014 Rutgers recruiting class. He was also one of the first decommitments from that class, and was likely the catalyst for a wave of high-profile and devastating defections.</p>
<p>Jennings was a four-star prospect coming out of South Jersey power Timber Creek, and committed to the Scarlet Knights on June 26, 2013.</p>
<p>As the 2013 season progressed, and amid a lot of weird circumstances at Rutgers (Cohen/Tyree, bad losses, etc.) rumors of a growing rift between Jennings and the Rutgers coaching staff began to surface. Jennings decommitted on November 10, 2013.</p>
<p>Much of the back-story on his decommitment remains (officially) unconfirmed, but rumors abound that 1) Jennings was upset that Rutgers continued to recruit wide receivers after he committed; and 2) that Jennings visited Iowa, then told Coach Flood he would not take anymore visits, and took another to Pitt anyway. When Coach Flood discovered the stealthy Pitt visit, he allegedly pulled Jennings' scholarship offer. Regardless of the exact circumstances, there is no doubt Coach Flood's tough guy "no visits following a commitment" policy backfired, leading to a string of high profile decommitments, including 4 star talents S <span>Kiy Hester</span> (11/11/13, since returned), QB Tyler Wiegers (11/17/13), RB Jonathan Hilliman (12/14/13), OL Justin Herron (1/29/2014) and WR Saeed Blacknall (1/27/2014).</p>
<p>Following his decommitment, Jennings committed to Pitt on January 5, 2014. He announced he was transferring from Pitt via Instagram yesterday, where he wrote:</p>
<blockquote style="margin: 0 0 0 40px; border: none; padding: 0px;">
<p><span>"I’d like to thank the University of Pittsburgh for giving me an opportunity that many people wish they had," [and] "I’d also like to [thank] the fans, coaches, and players. But I don’t feel like [P]itt is the best fit for me. Great school but I just know I need to be somewhere else. Thank you Pittsburgh!"</span></p>
</blockquote>
<p>Our Pitt brothers at Cardiac Hill explore the possible reasons for his dissatisfaction in a nice piece <a target="_blank" href="http://www.cardiachill.com/2015/1/9/7523323/adonis-jennings-transfer-pitt-football-pittsburgh-panthers-recruiting-paul-chryst-pat-narduzzi">here</a>. Jennings was hampered by a lingering groin injury he suffered in training camp this season. He played in six games, and caught six balls for 55 yards and zero TDs. In other words, Pitt burned his redshirt for nothing. Absent a hardship waiver, he will need to sit out 2015 and then will have three years to play three wherever he lands.</p>
<p>The early favorites to land Jennings are Rutgers and Temple, which both have a number of Timber Creek players on their rosters.</p>
<p>Make no mistake about it: Adonis Jennings is a big, fast, talented wide receiver, and those are difficult to find. Even so, given the nature of his initial breakup with Rutgers, and the string of devastation it ignited, there is room for some Rutgers fans to question whether they want him back if indeed he wants to be a Scarlet Knight again.</p>
<p>Personally, I would not think twice about bringing Jennings back, if Kyle Flood is in favor. Rutgers ended up not taking any WRs in last year's class, and cannot afford to scoff at this kind of talent when such players are interested. The alleged circumstances of Jennings' defection, as set forth above, do not cover either side in glory if true, and there is blame on both sides. I am a fan of the way Kyle Flood conducts himself and runs his program from a personnel standpoint. He has made it clear many times in the past that there are no doghouses in this program, and he recognizes that he is dealing with teenagers, who make sometimes make dumb decisions for bad reasons. He let <span>Ian Thomas</span> come back twice before ultimately cutting ties, and seems to be a forgiving coach in a lot of circumstances.</p>
<p>In Jennings' case, he thought the grass might be greener somewhere else, and despite his commitment, wanted to take visits to see if he was making the right decision. If Flood's policy on commitments visiting other schools wasn't so rigid, it is quite possible Jennings would have visited Pitt, counted the empty yellow seats in the <strike>Steelers</strike> Panthers' stadium on game day, and stayed a Scarlet Knight.</p>
<p>After decommitting from RU, he was allegedly dissatisfied with Pitt even before signing day when his primary recruiter left for another school, but stayed the course anyway. Flood's policy (which has apparently - and wisely - been relaxed this year, as Kamaal Seymour and Jarius Adams have both taken visits elsewhere without incident) was too rigid, and led to a very bad situation in 2014. If Coach Flood is indeed exploring the possibility of returning Jennings to the Scarlet fold, and if both sides have been able to bury the hatchet (as Flood was able to do with Kiy Hester), I say wonderful, and welcome (back) to the Banks Adonis - come ready to play and ready to represent your home state in the way we require, and I will be happy to cheer for you.</p>
<p>I also think the possibility of adding Jennings back to the Scarlet Knights, where he would join fellow one-time defector Kiy Hester, is a nice full-circle resolution to the decommitment debacle of a year ago, and can be a powerful recruiting tool going forward. Who better to preach to the young'ins about the dangers of following <a target="_blank" href="http://www.totalsportslive.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/JAMES-FRANKLIN.jpg">false prophets</a> to foreign lands, when <a target="_blank" href="http://www.onthebanks.com/2014/12/26/7447513/an-open-letter-to-recruits-rutgers-has-everything-you-need">everything they need is right here</a>, than two guys who went elsewhere and regretted it before returning to Piscataway?</p>
<p>What do you think? If Adonis is interested, will you welcome him back with open arms? Does he need to re-earn your trust as a fan? Or are there too many red flags here to take a chance?</p>
https://www.onthebanks.com/2015/1/11/7526731/adonis-jennings-transfer-rutgers-pittsburghAndy Egan2014-02-12T08:01:01-05:002014-02-12T08:01:01-05:00Who Poached Jersey Most?
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<figcaption>Jim O'Connor-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Besides Rutgers, where did New Jersey's top recruits sign?</p> <p>New Jersey has always served as fertile ground for college football teams around the country. While Rutgers has made great strides in keeping talent at home, outsiders continue to enter the Garden State and gain commitments from New Jersey prospects. Let's take a look at where New Jersey's best recruits are going not just in the Big Ten, but nationally:</p>
<p><i>(all rankings from 24/7 Sports composite)</i></p>
<h3>- Big Ten -</h3>
<h5>Ohio State</h5>
<table border="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td><b>Name</b></td>
<td><b>Pos.</b></td>
<td><b>Ht.</b></td>
<td><b>Wt.</b></td>
<td><b>High School</b></td>
<td><b>Rating</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Noah Brown</span></td>
<td>ATH</td>
<td>6'2"</td>
<td>212</td>
<td>Pope John XXIII (Sparta, NJ)</td>
<td>****</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Darius Slade</td>
<td>DE</td>
<td>6'5"</td>
<td>238</td>
<td>Montclair (Montclair, NJ)</td>
<td>***</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<h5><br></h5>
<h5>Michigan</h5>
<table border="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td><b>Name</b></td>
<td><b>Pos.</b></td>
<td><b>Ht.</b></td>
<td><b>Wt.</b></td>
<td><b>High School</b></td>
<td><b>Rating</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jabrill Peppers</td>
<td>CB</td>
<td>6'1"</td>
<td>205</td>
<td>Paramus Catholic (Paramus, NJ)</td>
<td>*****</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Juwann Bushell-Beatty</td>
<td>OT</td>
<td>6'7"</td>
<td>310</td>
<td>Paramus Catholic (Paramus, NJ)</td>
<td>***</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<h5><br></h5>
<h5>Penn State</h5>
<table border="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td><b>Name</b></td>
<td><b>Pos.</b></td>
<td><b>Ht.</b></td>
<td><b>Wt.</b></td>
<td><b>High School</b></td>
<td><b>Rating</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Saeed Blacknall</td>
<td>WR</td>
<td>6'3"</td>
<td>210</td>
<td>Manalapan (Manalapan, NJ)</td>
<td>****</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mike Gesicki</td>
<td>TE</td>
<td>6'5"</td>
<td>236</td>
<td>Southern Regional (Manahawkin, NJ)</td>
<td>****</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Antoine White</td>
<td>DT</td>
<td>6'3"</td>
<td>265</td>
<td>Millville (Millville, NJ)</td>
<td>***</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jason Cabinda</td>
<td>ATH</td>
<td>6'1"</td>
<td>220</td>
<td>Hunterdon Central (Flemington, NJ)</td>
<td>***</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<h5><br></h5>
<h5>Michigan State</h5>
<table border="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td><b>Name</b></td>
<td><b>Pos.</b></td>
<td><b>Ht.</b></td>
<td><b>Wt.</b></td>
<td><b>High School</b></td>
<td><b>Rating</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Gerald Owens</td>
<td>FB</td>
<td>6'1"</td>
<td>245</td>
<td>West Deptford (Westville, NJ)</td>
<td>***</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<h5><br></h5>
<h5>Maryland</h5>
<table border="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td><b>Name</b></td>
<td><b>Pos.</b></td>
<td><b>Ht.</b></td>
<td><b>Wt.</b></td>
<td><b>High School</b></td>
<td><b>Rating</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Juwann Winfree</td>
<td>ATH</td>
<td>6'2"</td>
<td>180</td>
<td>Dwight Morrow (Englewood, NJ)</td>
<td>****</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<h5><br></h5>
<h5>Northwestern</h5>
<table border="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td><b>Name</b></td>
<td><b>Pos.</b></td>
<td><b>Ht.</b></td>
<td><b>Wt.</b></td>
<td><b>High School</b></td>
<td><b>Rating</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Garrett Dickerson</td>
<td>DE</td>
<td>6'4"</td>
<td>240</td>
<td>Bergen Catholic (Oradell, NJ)</td>
<td>****</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cameron Quiero</td>
<td>OLB</td>
<td>6'1"</td>
<td>207</td>
<td>Bergen Catholic (Oradell, NJ)</td>
<td>***</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<h5><br></h5>
<h5>Iowa</h5>
<table border="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td><b>Name</b></td>
<td><b>Pos.</b></td>
<td><b>Ht.</b></td>
<td><b>Wt.</b></td>
<td><b>High School</b></td>
<td><b>Rating</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jameer Outsey</td>
<td>DE</td>
<td>6'3"</td>
<td>225</td>
<td>Franklin Township (Somerset, NJ)</td>
<td>***</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Terrence Harris</td>
<td>DE</td>
<td>6'3"</td>
<td>250</td>
<td>Paramus Catholic (Paramus, NJ)</td>
<td>**</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<h5><br></h5>
<h5>Rutgers</h5>
<table border="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td><b>Name</b></td>
<td><b>Pos.</b></td>
<td><b>Ht.</b></td>
<td><b>Wt.</b></td>
<td><b>High School</b></td>
<td><b>Rating</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Justin Nelson</td>
<td>OLB</td>
<td>6'1"</td>
<td>245</td>
<td>De Paul Catholic (Wayne, NJ)</td>
<td>***</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sidney Gopre</td>
<td>OLB</td>
<td>6'0"</td>
<td>200</td>
<td>Weequahic (Newark, NJ)</td>
<td>***</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Saquan Hampton</td>
<td>CB</td>
<td>6'2"</td>
<td>185</td>
<td>Hamilton (Trenton, NJ)</td>
<td>***</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kevin Wilkins</td>
<td>OG</td>
<td>6'4"</td>
<td>278</td>
<td>St. Joseph Regional (Montvale, NJ)</td>
<td>***</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Zack Heeman</td>
<td>OT</td>
<td>6'8"</td>
<td>270</td>
<td>Mount Olive (Flanders, NJ)</td>
<td>***</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jimmy Hogan</td>
<td>DE</td>
<td>6'5"</td>
<td>225</td>
<td>Ramapo (Franklin Lakes, NJ)</td>
<td>***</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Donald Bedell</td>
<td>DE</td>
<td>6'4"</td>
<td>230</td>
<td>Rumson Fair Haven Reg. (Rumson, NJ)</td>
<td>***</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<h3><br></h3>
<h3>- Atlantic Coast Conference -</h3>
<h5>Florida State</h5>
<table border="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td><b>Name</b></td>
<td><b>Pos.</b></td>
<td><b>Ht.</b></td>
<td><b>Wt.</b></td>
<td><b>High School</b></td>
<td><b>Rating</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ryan Izzo</td>
<td>TE</td>
<td>6'6"</td>
<td>220</td>
<td>Pope John XXIII (Sparta, NJ)</td>
<td>***</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<h5><br></h5>
<h5>Miami</h5>
<table border="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td><b>Name</b></td>
<td><b>Pos.</b></td>
<td><b>Ht.</b></td>
<td><b>Wt.</b></td>
<td><b>High School</b></td>
<td><b>Rating</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kiy Hester</td>
<td>S</td>
<td>6'0"</td>
<td>200</td>
<td>De Paul Catholic (Wayne, NJ)</td>
<td>****</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>David Njoku</td>
<td>WR</td>
<td>6'4"</td>
<td>220</td>
<td>Cedar Grove (Cedar Grove, NJ)</td>
<td>***</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Courtel Jenkins</td>
<td>DT</td>
<td>6'2"</td>
<td>294</td>
<td>De Paul Catholic (Wayne, NJ)</td>
<td>***</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<h5><br></h5>
<h5>Virginia Tech</h5>
<table border="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td><b>Name</b></td>
<td><b>Pos.</b></td>
<td><b>Ht.</b></td>
<td><b>Wt.</b></td>
<td><b>High School</b></td>
<td><b>Rating</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Billy Ray Mitchell</td>
<td>OG</td>
<td>6'5"</td>
<td>285</td>
<td>Paramus Catholic (Paramus, NJ)</td>
<td>***</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Tyrell Smith</span></td>
<td>OT</td>
<td>6'5"</td>
<td>265</td>
<td>Don Bosco Prep (Ramsey, NJ)</td>
<td>***</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<h5><br></h5>
<h5>Pittsburgh</h5>
<table border="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td><b>Name</b></td>
<td><b>Pos.</b></td>
<td><b>Ht.</b></td>
<td><b>Wt.</b></td>
<td><b>High School</b></td>
<td><b>Rating</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Adonis Jennings</td>
<td>WR</td>
<td>6'3"</td>
<td>185</td>
<td>Timber Creek (Sicklerville, NJ)</td>
<td>****</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<h5><br></h5>
<h5>Syracuse</h5>
<table border="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td><b>Name</b></td>
<td><b>Pos.</b></td>
<td><b>Ht.</b></td>
<td><b>Wt.</b></td>
<td><b>High School</b></td>
<td><b>Rating</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rodney Williams</td>
<td>CB</td>
<td>5'10"</td>
<td>185</td>
<td>Cherry Hill - West (Cherry Hill, NJ)</td>
<td>**</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<h5><br></h5>
<h5>Boston College</h5>
<table border="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td><b>Name</b></td>
<td><b>Pos.</b></td>
<td><b>Ht.</b></td>
<td><b>Wt.</b></td>
<td><b>High School</b></td>
<td><b>Rating</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jonathan Hilliman</td>
<td>RB</td>
<td>6'1"</td>
<td>210</td>
<td>St. Peter's Prep (Jersey City, NJ)</td>
<td>****</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Joe Vitiello</td>
<td>DE</td>
<td>6'4"</td>
<td>255</td>
<td>Immaculata (Somerville, NJ)</td>
<td>***</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sherman Alston</td>
<td>RB</td>
<td>5'7"</td>
<td>165</td>
<td>St. Joseph Regional (Montvale, NJ)</td>
<td>**</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tom Sweeney</td>
<td>TE</td>
<td>6'5"</td>
<td>220</td>
<td>Don Bosco Prep (Ramsey, NJ)</td>
<td>**</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Austin Stevens</td>
<td>TE</td>
<td>6'4"</td>
<td>220</td>
<td>Montclair (Montclair, NJ)</td>
<td>**</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Noa Merritt</td>
<td>DT</td>
<td>6'1"</td>
<td>265</td>
<td>Pope John XXIII (Sparta, NJ)</td>
<td>**</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<h5><br></h5>
<h5>Wake Forest</h5>
<table border="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td><b>Name</b></td>
<td><b>Pos.</b></td>
<td><b>Ht.</b></td>
<td><b>Wt.</b></td>
<td><b>High School</b></td>
<td><b>Rating</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ryan Anderson</td>
<td>OT</td>
<td>6'6"</td>
<td>275</td>
<td>The Hun School (Princeton, NJ)</td>
<td>**</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<h3><br></h3>
<h3>- American Athletic Conference -</h3>
<h5>Temple</h5>
<table border="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td><b>Name</b></td>
<td><b>Pos.</b></td>
<td><b>Ht.</b></td>
<td><b>Wt.</b></td>
<td><b>High School</b></td>
<td><b>Rating</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Shamir Bearfield</td>
<td>S</td>
<td>6'0"</td>
<td>170</td>
<td>St. Peter's Prep (Jersey City, NJ)</td>
<td>***</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michael Dogbe</td>
<td>OLB</td>
<td>6'4"</td>
<td>230</td>
<td>Parsippany Hills (Morris Plains, NJ)</td>
<td>***</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Frank Nutile</td>
<td>QB</td>
<td>6'4"</td>
<td>200</td>
<td>Don Bosco Prep (Ramsey, NJ)</td>
<td>***</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sean Chandler</td>
<td>CB</td>
<td>5'10"</td>
<td>175</td>
<td>Camden (Camden, NJ)</td>
<td>***</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="#" class="sbn-auto-link">David Hood</a></td>
<td>RB</td>
<td>5'10"</td>
<td>185</td>
<td>Absegami (Absecon, NJ)</td>
<td>**</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<h3><br></h3>
<h3>- Mid-American Conference -</h3>
<h5>Western Michigan</h5>
<table border="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td><b>Name</b></td>
<td><b>Pos.</b></td>
<td><b>Ht.</b></td>
<td><b>Wt.</b></td>
<td><b>High School</b></td>
<td><b>Rating</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jamauri Bogan</td>
<td>RB</td>
<td>5'7"</td>
<td>165</td>
<td>Union (Union, NJ)</td>
<td>***</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<p> </p>
<h5>Massachusetts</h5>
<table border="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td><b>Name</b></td>
<td><b>Pos.</b></td>
<td><b>Ht.</b></td>
<td><b>Wt.</b></td>
<td><b>High School</b></td>
<td><b>Rating</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Randall West</td>
<td>QB</td>
<td>6'4"</td>
<td>215</td>
<td>The Lawrenceville School (Trenton, NJ)</td>
<td>**</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Chris Carter</td>
<td>DE</td>
<td>6'4"</td>
<td>240</td>
<td>Bridgewater-Raritan (Bridgewater, NJ)</td>
<td>**</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<p> </p>
<h3>- Conference USA -</h3>
<h5>Old Dominion</h5>
<table border="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td><b>Name</b></td>
<td><b>Pos.</b></td>
<td><b>Ht.</b></td>
<td><b>Wt.</b></td>
<td><b>High School</b></td>
<td><b>Rating</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Marques Little</td>
<td>CB</td>
<td>5'9"</td>
<td>170</td>
<td>Williamstown (Williamstown, NJ)</td>
<td>***</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Isaiah Worthy</td>
<td>OLB</td>
<td>6'2"</td>
<td>230</td>
<td>West Deptford (Westville, NJ)</td>
<td>***</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Justice Davila</td>
<td>S</td>
<td>5'11"</td>
<td>185</td>
<td>Timber Creek (Sicklerville, NJ)</td>
<td>**</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<p> </p>
<h3>- FBS Independents -</h3>
<h5>Notre Dame</h5>
<table border="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td><b>Name</b></td>
<td><b>Pos.</b></td>
<td><b>Ht.</b></td>
<td><b>Wt.</b></td>
<td><b>High School</b></td>
<td><b>Rating</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Quenton Nelson</td>
<td>OT</td>
<td>6'5"</td>
<td>295</td>
<td>Red Bank Catholic (Red Bank, NJ)</td>
<td>****</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<p> </p>
<p><i>Big Ten: 21 recruits</i></p>
<p><i>ACC: 15</i></p>
<p><i>AAC: 7</i></p>
<p><i>MAC: 3</i></p>
<p><i>C-USA: 3</i></p>
<p><i>Notre Dame: 1</i></p>
<p>Rutgers predictably led the way with the most New Jersey recruits, garnering seven total. However, Boston College and Temple weren't far behind with six and five from the Garden State, respectively. The Eagle's ability to sign six Jersey players might be alarming if it weren't for the majority of them being two-star sleeper recruits. Temple, on the other hand, stole some really good players in Michael Dogbe and Shamir Bearfield, with Bearfield choosing the Owls over an offer from the Scarlet Knights. Temple even signed lightly recruited quarterback prospect Frank Nutile out of Don Bosco Prep, possibly establishing a pipeline to the perennial power.</p>
<p>Rutgers also failed to sign a single player from top in-state programs Pope John XXIII (Sparta, NJ) and Paramus Catholic (Paramus, NJ), with Noah Brown and Jabrill Peppers being the most notable players to spurn the hometown college program. Also, James Franklin's first recruiting class has a high-quality Jersey flavor to it, including Saeed Blacknall. One silver lining is that Rutgers did not really lose top targets to lesser or equal programs. Maryland did not sign a top NJ prospect, and Rutgers didn't seem to show a ton of interest in Northwestern commit Garrett Dickerson. You never want to lose your key prospects to the likes of Ohio State, Michigan, or Penn State, but it's understandable when it happens, especially considering the results on the field for the Scarlet Knights this past season.</p>
<p>Kyle Flood's status as head coach is not currently helping matters since some might see him as a lame duck coach, but hiring Ralph Friedgen as offensive coordinator should help boost recruiting by showing top recruits that RU means business on offense. Rutgers has always been solid defensively, 2013 notwithstanding. If Flood had more wins to end the season, the Scarlet Knights might just have prevented some decommitments. The B1G will be much more difficult, no doubt. But RU won't stay near the bottom forever, and once that happens more and better recruits will decide to stay in Piscataway.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>
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https://www.onthebanks.com/2014/2/12/5402696/rutgers-recruiting-who-poached-jersey-mostKevin Recio2014-02-06T18:20:56-05:002014-02-06T18:20:56-05:00Signing Day 2014 Recap
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/YObTS_gIPVBZbD161l_akHNyPqk=/0x0:2667x1778/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/28148929/20131228_krj_aa9_432.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>NSD 2014 has come and gone, and we can finally bid adieu to the class that will be known more for who didn't commit than for those who did.</p> <p>There is one prevailing notion regarding Rutgers' 2014 recruiting class, and that's quantity over quality. That's understandable, considering Coach Flood's need to replace all of the players who decommitted over the course of the season. What was once a very promising national top-20 class that <i>could</i> have been top four in the B1G is now nestled deep in the cellar with Illinois and Purdue. That's not to say that this class won't have some great players in the future. Every class generally has one or two under-the-radar recruits who end up being star players, maybe even <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft">NFL Draft</a> selections.</p>
<p>That can be the case when a recruiter has been following a prospect for awhile, watching his development for signs of raw talent. However, in this case, it's hard to say how much Kyle Flood's recruiting team has been following some of these commits. When you grab players to replace decommits, it could be the case that the recruiter performed an expedited process and did not do all of his due diligence in scouting. After all, how could you keep up when recruits decommit close to the end of the season and leave you in a bind? Rutgers obtained six commitments between January 22 and today. How many of those guys were on Rutgers' radar long ago and how many were quick commitments?</p>
<p>Alas, we won't know the effect of this class immediately. Stars are only meant for projections, and class ratings do not guarantee success or failure. The 2011 class was highlighted by highly-touted recruits in <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/134156/savon-huggins">Savon Huggins</a>, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/134151/miles-shuler">Miles Shuler</a>, and Gary Nova. One has been a bust, one can't stop throwing picks, and the other isn't even a member of the team anymore. So don't fret Scarlet Knight fans, 2014 could be a sleeper class that contributes to the turning point for the program.</p>
<p>Here is a quick breakdown of the 25-member class (all ratings based on <a href="http://rutgers.247sports.com/Season/2014-Football/Commits" target="_blank">24/7 composite</a>):</p>
<h4>Marcus Applefield - OT, 6'6" 280 lbs. (Weeki Wachee, FL)</h4>
<h5>3* - 0.8377 rating</h5>
<p>Built with a towering frame, Applefield is described as having a nastiness that will help finish off blocks. He will most likely redshirt considering the difficulty of acclimating to the offensive line at the next level, but he is definitely a program building commit.</p>
<h4>
<a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/113168/robert-martin">Robert Martin</a> - RB, 6'0" 190 lbs. (Harrisburg, PA)</h4>
<h5>3* - 0.8681 rating</h5>
<p>While a bit tall at six feet, Martin plays like a cutback or scatback runner. He can make the cuts to make guys miss, and reaches top speed fairly quickly. He shows vision and patience when he runs, letting the plays develop. He definitely has the frame to add bulk and size, but it's possible it might diminish his agility.</p>
<h4>Justin Nelson - OLB, 6'1" 245 lbs. (Wayne, NJ)</h4>
<h5>3* - 0.8681 rating</h5>
<p>If Nelson was three or four inches taller, he would be a high four-star recruit and in the Rivals 250. He is an extremely explosive athlete and can play middle or outside linebacker, but will most likely be used in pass rush situations due to his size. With Joe Rossi set to take defensive coordinator duties, the small and fast scheme will remain.</p>
<h4>Josh Hicks - RB, 5'10" 180 lbs. (Palmetto, FL)</h4>
<h5>3* - 0.8625 rating</h5>
<p>Kyle Flood claims that he would put up Hicks' recruiting tape against any other running back in the country. He is a Jawan Jamison-type of runner: able to cutback and change direction, but leg power to bull rush defenders.</p>
<h4>Sidney Gopre - OLB, 6'0" 200 lbs. (Newark, NJ)</h4>
<h5>3* - 0.8548 rating</h5>
<p>Gopre is a ball hawk and has a nose for racking up the tackles. He has football speed similar to <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/202363/steve-longa">Steve Longa</a> and can make the tackle from sideline to sideline if needed. One thing he'll need to work on is to add power and bulk so he can shed blocks more easily.</p>
<h4>Andre Boggs - CB, 5'11" 175 lbs. (Avon, CT)</h4>
<h5>3* - 0.8449 rating</h5>
<p>While Boggs has the top-end speed to be a slot-receiver, his skills project him as a cornerback. Body control is his greatest asset, as he can change direction and close on his target faster than other prospects. If he was just two inches taller, he could have been an elite level recruit.</p>
<h4>Tariq Cole - OT, 6'6" 365 lbs. (Long Beach, NY)</h4>
<h5>3* - 0.8436 rating</h5>
<p>You read that right: 365 pounds. You can't teach size, so there is no doubt Cole is an intriguing prospect. He is big for an NFL lineman, and he'll reach 6'7" if he grows just a tiny bit more. However, with sheer size like Cole's comes some drawbacks. He doesn't have that nastiness nor the technique that Applefield brings to finish blocks. That <i>can</i> be taught, however.</p>
<h4>Jacquis Webb - OG, 6'4" 290 lbs. (Rochester, NY)</h4>
<h5>3* - 0.8425 rating</h5>
<p>Another raw talent prospect, Webb has the ready-made size you want for a B1G-caliber offensive line. He doesn't have the athleticism you want for tackle, so he will most likely end up as a guard. He has the capability to become a force against opposing defensive tackles to open up holes for the running game.</p>
<h4>Kam Lott - CB, 5'10" 180 lbs. (Jacksonville, FL)</h4>
<h5>3* - 0.8400 rating</h5>
<p>Lott has everything you want in a corner: SEC speed, hips that give him great change-in-direction, and instincts to locate the ball. He is excellent in man-to-man coverage, which is exactly what Rutgers needs when the scheme is blitz-heavy. His height is the only thing holding him back from a higher rating.</p>
<h4>Kevin Wilkins - OG/DT, 6'4" 278 lbs. (Montvale, NJ)</h4>
<h5>3* - 0.8344 rating</h5>
<p>Boasting sub 5.0 forty-yard dash speed, Wilkins has the athleticism to play on both sides of the line. His speed gives him great burst to knock blockers back on their feet, while his lower leg strength provides a good push on the offensive side of the ball. With the upcoming depth along the offensive line, look for Wilkins to find a home at defensive tackle.</p>
<h4>Saquan Hampton - CB, 6'2" 185 lbs. (Hamilton, NJ)</h4>
<h5>3* - 0.8344 rating</h5>
<p>While Hampton is being recruited as a cornerback, he has the frame to become a playmaking safety. He has the hips and acceleration to make plays on wide receivers, but also the height to compete for jump balls. Some added bulk to his frame combined with his cover skills would make him a rare talent in the defensive backfield.</p>
<h4>Zack Heeman - OT, 6'8" 280 lbs. (Flanders, NJ)</h4>
<h5>3* - .8302 rating</h5>
<p>It's good to see Rutgers getting these big lineman prospects, as the physicality of the Big Ten will bring a need for size to compete at a high level. Heeman was recruited for his large frame - he'll need a couple years to develop the skill set to fully realize his true potential.</p>
<h4>Jacob Kraut - FB, 5'11" 240 lbs. (Neptune Beach, FL)</h4>
<h5>3* - 0.8291 rating</h5>
<p>Kraut comes in at a good time for the program, as both <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/114336/michael-burton">Michael Burton</a> and Sam Bergen will be entering their fifth and final years in Piscataway. He already has everything you want in a fullback: size, strength, and versatility. With the Rutgers' offense so dependent on the fullback position, Kraut's commitment was crucial for the 2014 class.</p>
<h4>Jimmy Hogan - DE, 6'5" 225 lbs. (Franklin Lakes, NJ)</h4>
<h5>3* - 0.8224 rating</h5>
<p>Hogan has such a versatile skill-set that he can compete at multiple positions along the defensive line. The one drawback is his current weight. To be a consistent chaotic force, he'll definitely have to add some bulk to his frame. <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/160743/darius-hamilton">Darius Hamilton</a> was a little light for the three-technique tackle position, so Hogan is without a doubt somewhat light. He has a tremendous work ethic, so if he can just add more muscle he'll follow in the footsteps of Hamilton.</p>
<h4>Logan Lister - OG/TE-Y, 6'4" 260 lbs. (Katy, TX)</h4>
<h5>3* - 0.8220 rating</h5>
<p>As a Y tight end, Lister was brought on to be more of a blocker than a pass-catcher, which explains his versatility as both a TE recruit as well as a guard recruit. However, that's only because of his current skill set. If he can develop his catching skills, he'll be a versatile weapon that can give opposing defenses fits.</p>
<h4>Eric Wiafe - DT, 6'5" 250 lbs. (New Berlin, NY)</h4>
<h5>3* - 0.8208 rating</h5>
<p>At 6'5", 250 pounds, Wiafe possesses the build you want for a defensive lineman. His combination of size and strength will pay dividends in the rigor of the Big Ten trenches. I believe defensive line coach Jim Panagos can coach Wiafe up and mold him into a more polished prospect.</p>
<h4>Donald Bedell - DE, 6'4" 230 lbs. (Rumson, NJ)</h4>
<h5>3* - 0.8073 rating</h5>
<p>Bedell is an intriguing prospect, because he has good speed to rush the quarterback in passing situations. However, it's possible to bend him back due to his weight. You can say that he currently fits the Rutgers mold of faster, somewhat lighter defenders. We'll see if the tried-and-true Rutgers scheme will work in the B1G.</p>
<h4>Giovanni Rescigno - QB, 6'4" 210 lbs. (Warren, MI)</h4>
<h5>3* - 0.7985 rating</h5>
<p>Rescigno was recently upgraded to a four-star recruit by ESPN, and that makes sense considering his high school career. He sat behind former top-recruit and current Michigan Wolverine Shane Morris until his senior year, so there isn't a ton of highlight film. He does show good accuracy and capable arm strength, although better mechanics can help him add zip to some of his throws.</p>
<h4>Brandon Russell - OLB, 6'1" 205 lbs. (Fort Lauderdale, FL)</h4>
<h5>2* - 0.7919 rating</h5>
<p>Russell is a bit undersized as a linebacker, and his stout frame makes him good for attacking blockers and getting below pad level. While his sideline-to-sideline lateral athleticism leaves a little to be desired, he has a good straight-line burst that is good for rushing offensive guards.</p>
<h4>George Behr - TE, 6'5" 235 lbs. (Saint Paul, MN)</h4>
<h5>2* - 0.7841 rating</h5>
<p>A towering tight end prospect at 6'5", Behr has the physical tools to measure up in the B1G. He has soft hands that make him a big target for quarterbacks. He'll definitely need to work on his blocking technique and his route running since he doesn't display elite burst off the line.</p>
<h4>Isaiah Wharton - CB, 6'1" 185 lbs. (Kissimmee, FL)</h4>
<h5>2* - 0.7683 rating</h5>
<p>A rangy cornerback prospect, Wharton has good size and is a physical defender. He can jam receivers at the line and re-direct them out of their routes. He lacks acceleration, so it's possible he can be moved to a safety position.</p>
<h4>Darian Dailey - CB, 5'11" 177 lbs. (Bradenton, FL)</h4>
<h5>2* - 0.7619 rating</h5>
<p>Dailey is reported to run a 4.35 forty-yard dash, so speed is trait that runs well in his veins. After more seasoning in a collegiate level program, he can develop his game to be a true lockdown corner.</p>
<h4>Sam Blue - OLB, 6'2" 232 lbs. (Raleigh, NC)</h4>
<h5>2* - 0.7333 rating</h5>
<p>Blue was previously committed to Georgetown and is also a member of the National Honor Society, which makes him a good fit as a Rutgers student-athlete. His recruiting process was somewhat fast, so his projection in the LB unit is still undecided.</p>
<h4>Alan Lucy - LS, 6'0" 230 lbs. (Dinwiddie, VA)</h4>
<h5>2* - 0.7000 rating</h5>
<p>With Robert Jones graduating, Kyle Flood had a big need for a long snapper, and he found one in Lucy.</p>
<h4>Eric Margolis - OLB, 6'4" 215 lbs. (New City, NY)</h4>
<h5>2* - 0.7000 rating</h5>
<p>Margolis was recruited as a wide receiver at Maine and Rhode Island, so he definitely has speed. A tall prospect, Rossi might want him to emulate <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/87463/jamal-merrell">Jamal Merrell</a>, who was a tall and rangy linebacker with similar size.</p>
<p> </p>
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https://www.onthebanks.com/2014/2/6/5384272/rutgers-football-signing-day-2014-recapKevin Recio2014-02-05T15:41:29-05:002014-02-05T15:41:29-05:002015 QB Michael Dare Commits to RU
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/YBsy3l8TATDhcdm_qMeXBe-xi4c=/3x0:3996x2662/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/28132225/20130907_ajw_aa9_012.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Kyle Flood gets an early start on his 2015 class by obtaining a verbal from QB Michael Dare.</p> <p>Recruiting never stops, and that notion was exemplified today by the verbal commitment of Elmwood Park (NJ) QB Michael Dare. Todderick Hunt of the Star-Ledger broke the rumor last night, hinting that Kyle Flood could have a 2015 signee ready to announce on National Signing Day. That rumor was found to be true, as Dare tweeted earlier today:</p>
<p><span></span></p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en">
<p>Proud to be the 1st NJ RU Commit of Rec. Class of '15 - F.A.M.I.L.Y. <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23CHOP&src=hash">#CHOP</a></p>
— Mike Dare (@Mike_Dare18) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mike_Dare18/statuses/431149190610427904">February 5, 2014</a>
</blockquote>
<p> </p>
<p><span>
<script src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></span></p>
<p>Brian Dohn had nice to say about Rutgers' newest QB:</p>
<p><span></span></p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en">
<p>Really like Michael Dare <a href="https://twitter.com/Mike_Dare18">@Mike_Dare18</a> ...First saw him at <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23Rutgers&src=hash">#Rutgers</a> camp and he had a nice release and good arm strength <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23ScoutNSD&src=hash">#ScoutNSD</a></p>
— ScoutBrianDohn (@BrianDohnScout) <a href="https://twitter.com/BrianDohnScout/statuses/431150385776959488">February 5, 2014</a>
</blockquote>
<p> </p>
<p><span>
<script src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></span></p>
<p>Dare stands at 6'5" 190 lbs., so he definitely will have to do some bulking up his senior year. He had offers from Virginia and Boston College <a target="_blank" href="http://www.nj.com/rutgersfootball/index.ssf/2014/02/michael_dare_2015_in-state_quarterback_commits_to_rutgers_on_national_signing_day.html">according to reports</a>. We'll have to wait a bit to see where he lands in terms of star ratings, but Dare can definitely become a top recruit with a great senior season. You can check out his highlights <a target="_blank" href="http://www.hudl.com/athlete/o/1136909/michael-dare">here</a>.</p>
<p> </p>
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https://www.onthebanks.com/2014/2/5/5383390/rutgers-recruiting-2015-qb-michael-dare-commits-to-ruKevin Recio2014-02-05T00:02:00-05:002014-02-05T00:02:00-05:00National Signing Day 2014: What to Watch
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/6wlPboMHusOH0VcoUGRiunxzWRE=/0x45:4000x2712/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/28067755/450025245.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Rich Schultz</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Kyle Flood is still waiting on some recruits to make their decision. Will they be wearing Scarlet once the day is over?</p> <p>This is it folks. The last big college football event until Spring ball is upon us. Rutgers has a very large class coming in for 2014, but a few recruits are still pending for the Scarlet Knights. Kyle Flood has scoured the State of Rutgers and beyond to round this class after the numerous decommitments, so it shouldn't be at all surprising that he tries to make a run at a few more players before the letters of intent get sent. Here are some of the storylines Rutgers fans should keep an eye on throughout the day:</p>
<h4>The Sam Martin Saga</h4>
<p>Martin is a 6'3" 180 lb. wideout from Colorado who has had quite the recruitment so far. He was originally committed to Miami (OH), flipped to Rutgers within the past week, and then flipped back to the RedHawks. He is a three-star composite recruit and can fill in the void left by Adonis Jennings. Mike Vorkunov of the Star-Ledger believes that Martin will honor his commitment to the RedHawks:</p>
<p><span><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p>WR Sam Martin seems &quot;firm&quot; on decision of Miami (OH) over <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23Rutgers&amp;src=hash">#Rutgers</a>. A furious finish to a long process <a href="http://t.co/dwqladaAbM">http://t.co/dwqladaAbM</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23rfootball&amp;src=hash">#rfootball</a></p>&mdash; Mike Vorkunov (@Mike_Vorkunov) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mike_Vorkunov/statuses/430811937538977792">February 4, 2014</a></blockquote></span></p>
<p><span><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></span></p>
<p>This is National Signing Day. Never say never until the LOI is in the hands of the coach.</p>
<h4>Shaedon Meadors down to App State & Rutgers</h4>
<p>Meadors is a speedster wide receiver with 4.5 speed to get separation from defenders. From Chas Dodd's very own Byrnes High, Meadors is a great sleeper prospect that Rutgers can use to bolster the receiving corps. He intends to make his decision in front of a live audience at his 4PM signing ceremony tomorrow, so there's a chance you can see the block 'R' hat on a player by the end of the day:</p>
<p><span><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p>Hope everyone comes out and support all of the people signing tomorrow at the Fine Arts Center at 4 <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23BeThere&amp;src=hash">#BeThere</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23NSD&amp;src=hash">#NSD</a>✒️🙏✊💯 <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23GDB&amp;src=hash">#GDB</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23Blessed&amp;src=hash">#Blessed</a>🙏</p>&mdash; GetDoughBoys#⃣6⃣ (@ShaedonMeadors) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShaedonMeadors/statuses/430905171904692225">February 5, 2014</a></blockquote></span></p>
<p><span><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></span></p>
<h4>Rutgers reaches tentative agreement to exit American Athletic Conference</h4>
<p>Rutgers is by no means the first school to leave for greener pastures in conference realignment, so it shouldn't be surprising that the Knights were <a target="_blank" href="http://blogs.mycentraljersey.com/rutgers/2014/02/04/rutgers-reached-tentative-agreement-to-exit-aac-officially-paving-way-to-big-ten/">able to negotiate an exit plan</a> for the Big Ten. Greg Brown, Motorola Solutions CEO and the closest thing RU has to a mega booster, is credited as being the primary bean-spiller on the agreement. Financial details are not yet known, so look out for news on the exit fee if things get really slow.</p>
<p> </p>
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https://www.onthebanks.com/2014/2/5/5380288/national-signing-day-2014-what-to-watchKevin Recio2014-02-04T07:00:00-05:002014-02-04T07:00:00-05:00Rutgers Football Recruiting: NSD 2014 Preview
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<figcaption>Wesley Hitt</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Kyle Flood has been hitting the recruiting trail hard to close out his 2014 class. Here are some of the highlights from the past week.</p> <p>This past recruiting season has been filled with disappointments for Rutgers fans, as several decommitments have tarnished what was once a landmark class. The latest is Justin Herron, who <a href="http://www.nj.com/rutgersfootball/index.ssf/2014/01/justin_herron_flips_from_rutgers_to_wake_forest.html" target="_blank">flipped to Wake Forest</a>. While some of the big names have gone elsewhere, Kyle Flood has been hard at work looking for under-the-radar players who might not have been recruited heavily, yet still fits the hard-nosed Rutgers profile. Here is a breakdown of some of the commits and transfers from the past week:</p>
<h5>Jerry Reese, Jr. - QB-dual threat, Jefferson Township (Oak Ridge, NJ)</h5>
<p>6'2" 205 lbs, unranked prospect</p>
<p>The dual-threat quarterback committed to a preferred walk-on opportunity at Rutgers. If he develops as well as former walk-on Paul James has, Reese could be a true sleeper prospect. An incredibly raw athlete, Reese, Jr. has the skills and tools to become a great signal-caller under Ralph Friedgen's system. You can check out his highlights <a target="_blank" href="http://www.hudl.com/athlete/3148919/highlights/74698375?autoplay=1">here</a>.</p>
<h5>Sam Blue - OLB, Millbrook (Raleigh, NC)</h5>
<p>6'3" 225 lbs, unranked prospect</p>
<p>Another under-the-radar recruit, Sam Blue was recruited for the rush end "R" position. The only other FBS offer Blue holds is from Georgia Southern, although he is reported to have preferred walk-on status at Georgia and UNC. Originally committed to Georgetown, Blue decided to flip to Rutgers when defensive line coach Jim Panagos made an in-home visit (although it can't be that hard to flip a recruit from an FCS school to a B1G program). You can watch his highlights <a target="_blank" href="http://www.hudl.com/athlete/1702822/highlights/67327380?autoplay=1">here</a>.</p>
<h5>Darian Dailey - CB, Manatee (Bradenton, FL)</h5>
<p>5'11" 175 lbs, 2* composite</p>
<p>There is at least one position that Rutgers can consistently produce top talent, and that's defensive back. With stars like the McCourty twins and young guns <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/87456/logan-ryan" class="sbn-auto-link">Logan Ryan</a> and <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/87460/duron-harmon" class="sbn-auto-link">Duron Harmon</a>, the effect is being noticed by recruits, including Darian Dailey:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>It's about the block R, honestly. I want to be a part of the DBU that they have.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>That was <a target="_blank" href="http://www.nj.com/rutgersfootball/index.ssf/2014/02/darian_daley_talks_rutgers_commitment.html">quoted by Todderick Hunt</a> of the Star-Ledger. 2013 was most certainly an aberration, but that hasn't stopped Kyle Flood from building a stockpile of cornerbacks in the 2014 class. Dailey had offers from several mid-major programs including Tulane, Middle Tennessee State, and a host of MAC schools. His <a target="_blank" href="http://www.hudl.com/athlete/o/1189753/highlights/84894393">highlight reel</a> shows good closing speed, but it is apparent he lacks catching ability, and he has a penchant for drawing interference calls. Still, you can see that the Rutgers staff likes the skills he brings - he has a knack for being a ball hawk and already seems to have Rutgers' technique of ripping the ball from the ballcarrier down pat.</p>
<h3>Names To Watch On NSD:</h3>
<h5>Sam Martin - WR, Fairview (Boulder, CO)</h5>
<p>6'3" 180 lbs, 3* composite</p>
<p>Martin is having a <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/158907/gunner-kiel" class="sbn-auto-link">Gunner Kiel</a> type of recruitment. Originally committed to Miami (OH), Martin flipped to Rutgers last weekend, only to reportedly return to the RedHawks earlier this week.</p>
<p><span><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p>Well isn’t this fun. Sam Martin flipped from Miami to Rutgers last week, now he’s committed to the RedHawks again. <a href="http://t.co/ugrCWb8k1G">http://t.co/ugrCWb8k1G</a></p>&mdash; Hustle Belt (@HustleBelt) <a href="https://twitter.com/HustleBelt/statuses/430471369860841472">February 3, 2014</a></blockquote></span></p>
<p><span><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></span></p>
<p>Todderick Hunt claims that Giovanni Rescigno is doing work in terms of getting Martin back in Piscataway:</p>
<p><span><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p>Spoke briefly to Rutgers QB commit Giovanni Rescigno about the possible Sam Martin flip back, and he says he is &quot;on it.&quot;</p>&mdash; Todderick Hunt (@TodderickHunt) <a href="https://twitter.com/TodderickHunt/statuses/430495055141298176">February 4, 2014</a></blockquote></span></p>
<p><span><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></span></p>
<p>Martin has 4.5-40 speed to get separation on deep routes, but also has the height to attack those jump balls on fades. He definitely needs to add some bulk to his lanky frame, but that will come once he goes through the strength and conditioning program. He was the state of Colorado's leading high-school receiver in 2012, and followed up that season with even better numbers in 2013. Highlights of his game can be seen <a target="_blank" href="http://youtu.be/0NzxrmvEfp8">here</a>.</p>
<h5>Shaedon Meadors - WR, Byrnes (Duncan, SC)</h5>
<p>6'2" 175 lbs, 3* composite</p>
<p>The current Appalachian State commit has re-opened his recruitment, and Rutgers looks to be a finalist when he makes his decision. 24/7 Sports has updated their prognosis on his decision with Rutgers being his final choice, but it's definitely close between the two schools. With Saeed Blacknall and Adonis Jennings gone, Kyle Flood is definitely looking to bolster his receiving corps, and getting Martin and Meadors would be a great consolation prize. Also, with <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/114326/chas-dodd" class="sbn-auto-link">Chas Dodd</a> finding marginal success at RU, it's possible that the Scarlet Knights could build a pipeline to Byrnes HS and find the next Marcus Lattimore. Meadors' 4.5-40 speed gives him the ability to leave DBs in the dust, but it might mean he needs work on catching in traffic. His <a target="_blank" href="http://www.hudl.com/athlete/999444/highlights/62751375?autoplay=1">highlight reel </a>shows several catches where he is wide open.</p>
<h5>Caleb Perez - ATH, Palm Beach Gardens (FL)</h5>
<p>6'2" 215 lbs, unranked prospect</p>
<p>Kyle Flood is recruiting Perez as a preferred walk-on fullback. 24/7 Sports reports that he has similar offers from a host of mid-major and FCS schools, but he does hold an offer from UCF. Current commit Jacob Kraut is the top FB recruit in the nation, so Perez would most-likely be kept for depth purposes, especially considering the trouble the Knights had when <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/114336/michael-burton" class="sbn-auto-link">Michael Burton</a> went down in 2012 due to injury.</p>
<p>
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https://www.onthebanks.com/2014/2/4/5373606/football-recruiting-updateKevin Recio2014-02-03T10:30:40-05:002014-02-03T10:30:40-05:00Scouting Philip Nelson
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/AxDIwGdk9f0PseQtBYSFhdo7z0M=/0x156:4000x2823/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/27957765/20131102_jla_bl2_690.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Pat Lovell-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Taking a look at the QB transfer from fellow B1G member Minnesota.</p> <p>Rutgers added another Midwest quarterback to its roster last week when <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/159863/philip-nelson">Philip Nelson</a> decided to transfer to the Scarlet Knights. The Mankato, MN product was looking for a more pass-friendly offense, and he definitely found one now that Ralph Friedgen is joining the staff in Piscataway. As Minnesota's leading passer for 2013, Nelson brings solid B1G experience and QB depth for 2015 and beyond. What do Gopher fans have to say about Nelson? Here is a snippet from the SB Nation blog <a href="http://www.thedailygopher.com" target="_blank">The Daily Gopher</a> on Nelson <i>before </i>transferring to Rutgers:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>[...] Nelson's performance during the school's first four game B1G winning streak in over 40 years cannot be ignored, as he looked like an actual, real, legit B1G QB. In four consecutive wins vs Northwestern, Nebraska, Indiana and Penn State Nelson completed 46 of 73 passes (63%) for 748 yards (only 187 per game, but still), 0 picks and 10 total TD's (7 throwing). Those aren't All-American numbers- or probably not even all-conference numbers- by any means, but I would still consider that quality QB play, especially at Minnesota. Had he put up numbers consistent to those all season we not only obviously wouldn't have a QB controversy, but I think everybody would be VERY excited about Nelson's present and future with the team.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Seems great doesn't it? Unfortunately, there is another side to Nelson's game:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>The problem, of course, is that outside of those four solid games was a lot of stink (the kids today would probably say "stank" but whatever). Nelson did run the football better this season than last, but his passing numbers were barely an improvement over 2012 when he started the final seven games of the season as a true freshman. His two biggest stinkbombs came in two pretty spots in the loss to Iowa and the bowl game you just witnessed. Not good times. Bad times, actually.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>You can read the entire review of Minnesota's 2013 passing performance <a href="http://www.thedailygopher.com/2013/12/31/5249942/minnesota-football-2-gopher-passing-game-issues-not-named-nelson-or-leidner" target="_blank">here</a>. The consensus on Nelson is that he has shown flashes of greatness before, evidenced by the four-game winning streak. However, a quick look at the B1G pass defense rankings shows that Indiana, Northwester, and Penn State were relatively bad defending through the air, while Nebraska is the lone team to be in the top four within the conference. Confidence and coaching are mentioned as the biggest issues, noting that he looked flustered in games against Iowa and Wisconsin, two very good teams against the pass. The good news is that those issues are fixable. He is still a young player, and Minnesota doesn't exactly have a pedigree for developing pocket passers. Having him work with an offensive mind like Friedgen will be a good test for him to see if he has what it takes to make it as a B1G QB.</p>
<p>Here are some highlights of Nelson's performance against Purdue, which actually finished as the sixth-best pass defense in the B1G:</p>
<p><span><iframe width="560" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/s2xhsa2wyfg" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></span></p>
<p>Because Rutgers doesn't officially join the Big Ten until July, Nelson's transfer will not cause him to lose a year of eligibility. Should Gary Nova win the starting job this offseason (gasp!), Nelson will be eligible in 2015 and will compete with <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/160724/blake-rankin">Blake Rankin</a>, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/202367/chris-laviano">Chris Laviano</a>, Giovanni Rescigno, and J.R. Reese for the starting job. That's a pretty good quarterback derby, and whoever wins that competition should be seasoned enough to lead the Scarlet Knights to at least a bowl game.</p>
https://www.onthebanks.com/2014/2/3/5373680/scouting-philip-nelsonKevin Recio2014-01-28T15:42:22-05:002014-01-28T15:42:22-05:00Scouting Giovanni Rescigno
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/p89-BCU_vhOclU-Yd0GMoA2ngTs=/0x0:4000x2667/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/27621995/20131126_mje_sv3_1207.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Taking a look at Rutgers' latest QB commit.</p> <p>While college football is less of a quarterback league than the NFL, the QB position is nonetheless an integral aspect of a football team. With Gary Nova showing no progress since he joined the Scarlet Knights, and with Kyle Flood still having trouble securing an assistant for both offensive coordinator and QB coach, Rutgers definitely needs help at the position. Wiegers is long gone, but Flood was able to secure a commitment from an under-the-radar prospect in Giovanni Rescigno. Initially a low-rated recruit, Rescigno has seen his stock rise since his commitment to the Rutgers program. He was upgraded to a four-star prospect by ESPN and is a three-star composite on 24/7 Sports.</p>
<p><span><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p>New Rutgers QB commit Giovanni Rescigno is a four-star now. I think a lot of schools missed on him: <a href="http://t.co/yo3n5Hvh95">http://t.co/yo3n5Hvh95</a></p>&mdash; Tom VanHaaren (@TomVH) <a href="https://twitter.com/TomVH/statuses/427975839217491968">January 28, 2014</a></blockquote></span></p>
<p><span><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></span></p>
<h4>Highlights</h4>
<p><span><iframe width="560" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/KZ8J_myMYGg" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></span></p>
<h4>Resume</h4>
<p>6'4" 220 (height and weight varies depending on service)</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://footballrecruiting.rivals.com/barrier_noentry.asp?sid=880&script=%2Fcontent%2Easp&cid=1596427">Senior year numbers</a>:</p>
<table border="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td>Pass Yds</td>
<td>Comp. %</td>
<td>TDs</td>
<td>INTs</td>
<td>Rush Yds</td>
<td>Rush TDs</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1396</td>
<td>54.7</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>8</td>
<td>512</td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<p> </p>
<p>High school offense: Pistol</p>
<p><b>Pros:</b></p>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li><span>Prototypical size</span></li>
<li><span>Good command of offense</span></li>
<li><span>Decent arm strength</span></li>
<li><span>Running ability & good escapability</span></li>
<li><span>Accuracy</span></li>
</ul>
<p><b>Cons:</b></p>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li><span>Mechanics need work</span></li>
<li><span>Passes lack zip; throws floaters at times</span></li>
<li><span>Lacks elite speed</span></li>
<li><span>Only one year of starting experience</span></li>
<li><span>Lack of other D1 offers raises questions</span></li>
</ul>
<div>There is no doubt that Rescigno is a bit of an unknown at this point. He was a backup/specialist package player behind Michigan true freshman Shane Morris for most of his career, so his senior year is the only year he accumulated any significant snaps. While some scouting sites will say that his best football <a target="_blank" href="http://footballrecruiting.rivals.com/barrier_noentry.asp?sid=880&script=%2Fcontent%2Easp&cid=1596427">is ahead of him</a>, it's never a bad thing to get more experience. Michigan and MSU's interest were at preferred walk-on for Gio, so that should tell you something regarding other recruiter's impression of him. Rescigno doesn't throw the perfect ball, which prevents him from truly having that zip you want to fit into tight windows. While his highlights show good accuracy, faster defenders could have the closing speed to break up his passes at the next level. This is something that can be coached up, if RU ever hires a coordinator or QB coach.</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>Rescigno is a diamond in the rough at this point. He'll need proper coaching to develop his true potential, but it could be the perfect confluence of events (limited experience for other schools to scout, RU needing a QB) for his success. At any rate, it's a good thing at this point to add some competition to the mess at quarterback.</div>
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https://www.onthebanks.com/2014/1/28/5354668/scouting-giovanni-rescignoKevin Recio