Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Tennessee duo starting to inspect schools
By Dave Hooker
A pair of brothers from Tennessee figure to make some lucky recruiter very happy.
Even though it's early in Emmanuel and Josh Smith's recruitment, they seem likely to eventually choose the same school. By all accounts, the pair from Murfreesboro (Tenn.) Oakland have plenty of choices.
"Really important," said the younger of brothers, Josh, who is listed as a linebacker in the Class of 2015, when asked how important it was to play with his brother in college. "We've built a good relationship on the field. Our relationship on the field helps because I know what he's going to do. I know somebody has my back on the field."
Emmanuel, a junior, will be the first to sign with a college. The 6-foot-2, 196-pound athlete prospect has picked up recent scholarship offers from Tennessee and Memphis. Vanderbilt, Michigan, Ohio State, Louisville, Mississippi State, Illinois, Stanford, Duke and Syracuse have shown interest. Certainly, more scholarship offers are on the way.
The Smith brothers are considering a visit to Louisville, Kentucky or Memphis this weekend, although AAU basketball could prevent such travel plans. The two were scheduled to visit Tennessee for the Volunteers' junior day last weekend before hoops got in the way.
No matter. There's no rush for football recruiting. The brothers should still have plenty of options. While Emmanuel may be a little more known, Josh could be the top prospect in Tennessee for the 2015 class.
"I'm very passionate when I play," the 6-foot-4, 207-pound outside linebacker said. "I can work on my speed, but strength-wise I can play with the best."
Tennessee has shown interest in the younger Smith. More schools figure to be on the way.
When asked what the duo will look for in a school, Josh said" "Academics, a good program sports-wise [and] we're looking to build and help a team out."
