I thought I’d clarify something that went on at Arnold today to all you WTF fans.
We were told that Jake Bowen, one of Bay County’s best defensive players, was supposed to sign a national let-ter of intent with South Alabama, which is forming a football team next season.
It turns out, that wasn’t true. We’re still not sure what Bowen signed this morning, but it wasn’t a NLI. Whether it was a miscommunication between USA coaches and his mother, or just a misunderstanding, Bowen will try to walk on to the Jaguars, who will play their first full season in 2010.
Bowen wasn’t included in my story on the Arnold signings because we don’t write about walk-ons in the print edition. Hence, why I’m talk-ing about it here on my blog.
Hope that clarifies some questions or concerns.
Gray chooses Troy
One noticeable name was absent from today’s ceremony at Arnold High School for National Signing Day. The Marlins quarterback, Johnny Gray, wasn’t among the three seniors inking their names to play at the next level.
That’s because Gray, who threw for 691 yards and six touchdowns last season, opted to be a preferred walk-on at Troy, a Sun Belt Conference school.
“It’s just close to home and I’ve wanted to play ball there, so I’m just going to go and walk on,” Gray said. “That’s the best of the best. You have to be good to get on the field. If you’re starting at a Division I program, then you know you’re one of the best in the country, period. That’s as big as it gets. That’s what I’ve always wanted to do.”
Troy recruited Gray briefly during his sophomore year. His lack of speed is no secret around Bay County, but Gray the opportunity to play at some Division II, Division III and NAIA schools. Instead, he’s trying to be one of 15 possible walk-ons out of a field of 60.
Gray said one Trojan assistant told him he should be selected.
“I’m probably going to get redshirted,” Gray said. “They told me to report in July and start working out and start practicing and all that stuff.”
If not, he may stay at Troy and get his degree or try to play else where.
“I haven’t even thought about that yet,” he said.
How the SEC stacks up
Check out where Rivals.com and Scout.com ranked the recruiting classes of all 12 SEC teams. The first number listed is Rivals.com and second is Scout.com.
Alabama 1 - 2
Arkansas 14 - 19
Auburn 18 - 15
Florida 10 - 21
Georgia 9 - 8
Kentucky 42 - 32
LSU 2 - 3
Mississippi 17 - 16
Mississippi State 22 - 18
South Carolina 12 - 12
Tennessee 23 - 22
Vanderbilt 73 - 74
