As the calendar moves into May, each visit from a potential customer becomes more important. Here are five key visits to watch in the South Central region.
RELATED: Five Big Visits from East Coast Prospects
Kieron Russell – Alabama, late May
While Russell remains committed to Southern Methodist University, there are numerous programs added that could complicate that commitment. The Broncos’ No. 1 threat is arguably Alabama, which just a week ago finally gave Russell a gift on his birthday. Russell told me almost immediately after receiving the invitation that he would be making an official visit to Tuscaloosa “in late May.” He will lock in a specific date soon.
The Tide told Russell he was in their class of 2025. If he arrives on campus and this message is repeated and felt by Russell, I find it very likely that he will take action.
If that does happen, it could lead to some changes on the quarterback boards at several programs.
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Taz Williams Jr. – Michigan, June 21
Serena Williams has six projects in the running, but really, I think there are only four. Texas A&M, Pittsburgh, Penn State and Michigan currently figure prominently in his recruitment, with all of those schools set to take official visits. Michigan appears to have a potential advantage right now. Williams has raved about the Wolverines in recent weeks, and this is his final official visit before his senior season, where the Wolverines make a final push against him.
The four-star wide receiver is Ron Bellamy And his record as an outfielder.Taz also spoke highly of the new offensive coordinator Kirk Campbell And be sure to mention that he feels connected to their hometown of Pittsburgh, as well as some of the rest of the Michigan staff.
Not only does he like Michigan in a football sense, but he has a strong connection to the program. This could make for a committed landing combination.
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RILEY PETTIJOHN – Texas, June 14
The Texas Longhorns were considered the favorite for Pettyjohn for much of the offseason. While the Longhorns aren’t planning on making this their last official visit, it’s possible this could be a clean slate with Texas leading the way until he visits and seals the deal.
Austin’s staff has added several blue-chip linebackers over the past two classes, including Anthony Hill, Ta’Antoni Smith, Taosiri Akana and DeLeon Gillette. The blueprint for Pettyjohn to join the Longhorns class already exists. Official visits could be where they put the finishing touches on his recruitment.
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KEYLAN MOSES – Texas A&M University, sometime in June
Moses committed to LSU in November, but Texas A&M has been a contender. Early in his recruitment, Moses almost joined the Aggies. Now, there’s a new culture and mentality in College Station that employees have been relentlessly pursuing.
Moses said the way A&M pursued him has been intriguing. Just earlier this spring, the last time he was on campus, Aggies invited Moses’ younger brother, which only broadened the connection.The Baton Rouge four-star will travel to College Station in June (date to be determined) and hear the pitch about what Mike Elko and his staff have to deliver.
I wouldn’t say yet that the Tigers should be worried, but they should certainly be ready to fight.
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Jonah Williams – Ohio State, June 14
Oklahoma State seemed to capture all the momentum in Williams’ recruitment. But when I see Ohio State’s official visit schedule, I can’t help but think about how the Buckeyes are going to turn this recruiting around. They have arguably the best safety in the country in Caleb Downs and will have a host of other elite backs.
I’m also interested to see how five-star defensive back and Ohio State commit Devin Sanchez performs. The two have played 7-on-7 games, have a very friendly relationship, and have even visited together before. I wouldn’t be surprised to see Sanchez join him that weekend and stay within earshot.
If anyone can steal Williams from Oklahoma’s proven leader, it’s Ohio State.
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