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NOTE: The information in this section comes from several different sources, including newspaper articles, Inside Texas, True Orange and Prepstar.

Roderick Babers, (17) CB, 5-9, 175, 4.34 Houston Lamar, TX. USA Today Honorable Mention All USA. In 1998, Babers recorded 43 tackles, picked off eight passes (two returned for scores) to tie for the city lead and caused one fumble. By the end of 1998, widely regarded by many as the top pure cover corner in the state. Babers was named Honorable Mention 5A All-State this year. In 1997, Babers recorded 60 tackles with 10 pass deflections and 2 INTs. Dazzled coaches with two 4.34 timings in pre-season Houston recruiting combine. Babers said he picked Texas over A&M "because I think coach (Mack) Brown and his team are going places. I wanted a chance to play for a national championship caliber team and I think that, with coach Brown, that will happen at Texas." BP 305. Squat 405. Vertical 36". 21.6 200m. Nickname "Kool Aid." Chose Texas over CU, A&M, Arizona and FSU, all offered. Fully Qualified.
2000 Update: Rod played significant minutes from the middle of the season on, and looks to contribute much more in 2000.

Jason Barron, (NR) FB, 6-2, 230, 4.7, Brownwood, TX. Played Defensive end and FB (in goal line situations). 2nd Team 4A All-State. Described as "a very physical player." Barron performed quite well on the defensive side of the ball in '98, recording 57 solos, 44 assists, nine sacks, seven passes batted down, three fumble recoveries and three caused fumbles. At fullback he rushed for 143 yards on 30 carries and three TDs.  Coach Freman told True Orange that , as a FB in short-yardage situations, "he almost always was good for a first down or he threw a blok that let somebody else make a first down. He's strong and he really competes.  I think he will make Texas a very good player."  Also plays basketball, and participates in powerlifting and track. Will play FB at Texas. Preseason BP 295. Fully Qualified
2000 Update:  I believe that Jason redshirted.

Reed Boyd, (NR) LB, 6-2, 230, 4.6, New Braunfels, TX. LB A first-team All-State 4A selection, Boyd recorded an incredible 217 tackles at MLB (82 being solos), with three QB pressures, eight sacks, four fumble recoveries, four caused fumbles and four INTs. A Prepstar scout said that he "personally scouted Boyd against Bastrop this fall and he made plays from sideline to sideline." In 1997, Boyd earned unanimous All-District honors at S for the Cougars as a junior, totaling 128 tackles (29 solo, 99 assisted) and two INTs. Boyd also nabbed All-District honors as a sophomore, with 74 tackles from his safety position. From Inside Texas: Depending on future growth, Boyd is projected as a SS, LB or DE in college. Boyd ran track at Canyon, although a spring back injury kept him from competing in the District track meet in 1997. 485 squat, 300 bench, 305 power clean. Coach Gustaffson said that every Big 12 school, as well as Kentucky and U of H visited Canyon during May to woo Boyd. Fully Qualified.
2000 Update:  I think that Reed redshirted

Monti Collier, (15) CB, 5-10, 172, 4.35 Dallas Carter, TX. Another CB who was ranked on several national top 100 lists, Collier is known for playing very tight man to man defense and really closes well on the ball. From Inside Texas: No quarterback dared throw his way in 1998, giving Collier no chances for interceptions but allowing him to focus on stopping the run (he had 85 tackles -- 14 against Tyler John Tyler). He had six interceptions in 1997 and 59 tackles. Excellent GPA and SAT, and came to UT to major in Engineering. Preseason BP 250. At the NIKE camp in Texas, Collier ran a 4.42 in the 40 and jumped 34" in the vertical. The commitment of Collier continues Texas' pipeline into Dallas Carter (McCowan, Joyner and Collier), which has been further fostered by ex-Carter and current UT RB coach Bruce Chambers. Nicknamed "Money". Chose Texas over A&M and USC (both offered), Notre Dame, Tennessee , UCLA and several Ivey League schools. Fully qualified.
2000 Update:  Monti injured his shoulder in a preseason scrimmage, and redshirted.

Robbie Doane, (10) OL, 6-6, 270, 4.9, Coppell, TX.  USA Today Honorable Mention All USA.  Four year starter at OT and two year starter at DT. Considered as one of the top OL prospects in the state. Robbie likely will need to redshirt his freshman year (only BP's 270 now). Squat 450. 26" vertical. Has incredible feet for a player his size and is widely regarded as having boundless potential. Even though he is being recruited as an OL, as a junior, Doane played both ways for the Cowboys, recording nine solos, 26 assists, three sacks, two pass deflections and four tackles for losses as a DL. Said one recruiter "He controls the line of scrimmage and could help on either side of the ball." Will play OL for Texas. All district baseball player (pitched and first baseman). Chose Texas very early over Michigan (offered), UCLA (offered) and Kentucky (offered), Ohio State (offered), UCLA (offered), SMU (offered). Fully qualified.
2000 Update:  Robbie played significant minutes as a backup at LT, and looks to contribute much more in 2000.

Derrick Dockery, (11) OL, 6-6, 311, 5.2 Garland Lakeview, TX. 2nd Team All USA by USA Today. 2nd Team 5A All State by Texas Sportswriters Association (TSA).  Great foot work. Dockery didn't develop into a blue chip candidate until late in his junior year when he shed excess weight. The National Recruiting Advisor said that Dockery "almost looked like a different player from early in [his junior] season to the latter part -- he improved that drastically." Coach Alton Hill compares Derrick to former Texas standout Joe Shearin: "He's better blocking the run, but his pass blocking improved drarmatically this spring." Said one recruiter: "Very physical and could start as a freshman. Moves well. He can bend. Not as fast as Robbie Doane but has good feet and can really roll up on you." 375 BP. Squat 450. Vertical 22". Chose Texas over Tennessee, A&M, FSU, CU Syracuse and Michigan (all offered). Fully Qualified.
2000 Update:  Derrick played significant minutes at LG, and looks to contribute much more in 2000.

Artie Ellis, (8) WR, 6-4, 200, 4.55, Spring Westfield, TX.. Honorable Mention All USA by USA Today.  Considered by most the top WR prospect in Texas, Arite is very athletic, has great hands and doesn't just go over the middle, but goes over the middle and comes down with the ball almost every time. Recruiters heaped praise on Ellis "He attacks the ball." The National Recruiting Advisor said that Ellis "is easily the state's number one receiving prospect and also one of the country's most coveted possession-types." He was First Team 5A All State this year. In 1998 he had 69 receptions, 1024yds (14.8 avg.) and 12 TD's. The 6-4 Ellis was so athletic he returned puns for Westfield, bringing back 10 for 255 yds and one for a TD. In 1997, Ellis had 70 catches for 1,026 yds and 18 Tds. He was named 2nd Team 5A All State as a junior. "I'll go across the middle," the big wideout told the Statesman. "If you put the ball there, I'll take the shot. No problem." Said Coach David Beal "Great size and great hands, and he's not afraid to go over the middle." BP 300 and recorded a 4.31 shuttle at the Houston combine. Runs the 400 (49.2 is his best) and 1600 meters. From Inside Texas: Coach Beal called Ellis the Dennis Rodman of Westfield basketball: just "defense, rebounding and hustle." (without the pierced nose, rainbow-colored hair or bad attitute). . Ellis said he ran a 4.52 forty at UT's June 2 camp. Vertical 25". Nicknamed "Ace". Favored a whole host of outs of state schools early which recruited him very hard, such as Michigan, FSU, Tennessee, UCLA, Arizona and USC, before choosing Texas after camping in Austin in June. Fully Qualified.
2000 Update:  Artie redshirted and -- with the departure of Kwame Cavil -- will likey start at Z WR for Texas.

Adam Hall, (65) 6-3, 200, 4.55, Austin Westlake, TX. Hall was the 5A First Team All State QB this year. A two-year starter, Hall completed 143 of 263 (54.4%) for 2,188 yards and 21 TDs (7 Ints) in '98 (he had 3,608 passing yards and 35 TDs in his career). Hall is quick, agile, sees the field well and has great touch on the ball. In 1997 threw for 1,420 yds and 14 TD's.  Performed best in the big games: was 15-23 for 241 yds and 3 TDs to lead Westlake to a victory over Killeen Ellison 23-21 and was 23 of 3 for 272 yards and 2 TD's in 38-31 overtime win over New Braunfels (also threw 4 TD's in game against Crockett).  Received an early offer from Mack Brown over the summer.  From Inside Texas: Hall said "I wanted to play there my whole life, and they have a great program and a new coach. It came as a big surprise when they offered me. I went to their football camp and went up against Colby Freeman and we came out about even." Coach Ron Shroeder compares him favorably with former Westlake QB's Jay Rodgers (IU) and Drew Brees (Purdue), but says that Adam is taller and faster. Comparing Hall with Brees, Coach Schroeder told Inside Texas: "Well, Hall is 6-3, Brees is 6-1, Hall's been clocked at 4.5 in the forty and Brees about a 4.9, Hall's got a quicker release though Brees has great accuracy . . . " Coach Schroeder said he thinks Hall is going to surprise a lot of people, and that Greg Davis loves the 6-3, 195-pounder. Chose Texas over early attention by KSU, MO, Iowa, LSU, TCU, Houston, Tech and Baylor. Schroder also said that, as his season progressed and film of Hall circulated, other programs tried to lure Hall away from Texas after his verbal to Brown, but he would not reveal which schools. Fully Qualified.
2000 Update:  Adam redshirted and may be Chris Simms' first backup in 2000 if Applewhite doesn't return immediately from an ACL injury.

Gerald Hanson, (89) 5-10, 170, 4.32, Houston Jersey Village, TX. First Team All-Metro in Houston his senior year. Ran a 4.32 at the Accutrack at the Houston Nike combine, barely edging out Rod Babers for the fastest time. From Inside Texas: After running that time, Coach Wood said that "he'll probably be a little quicker by the end of the summer because he's in here working hard every day." Coach Wood added that "[h]e may be a little bit of a sleeper for high school ball because we're not a big-throwing football team here so he won't get showcased a lot, but when we throw the football, we're gonna go to him. I think he'll be a big asset for Texas." In that run-oriented offense, Hanson still managed to haul in 27 receptions for 602 yards and six TDs in '98. In 1997, Hanson had 15 receptions for 350 yards and 4 TD's (plus two long TD's called back because of penalties). Has played varsity since his freshman year. Texas coaches were impressed enough with Hanson's catching ability at the Texas camp to offer him a scholarship. Chose Texas over Wisconsin (offer), Colorado, Florida and Baylo (all tried to get Hanson to visit, some after his commit)r. Fully Qualified.
2000 Update:  Gerald redshirted to gain size and strength.

Kenny Hayter, (7) RB, 6-0, 213, 4.4, Houston Cypress Falls, TX. Honorable Mention All USA by USA Today. Widely regarded as the top running back in Texas, Hayer played QB in the beginning of 1998 (that move was not surprising, given that Cy-Falls was in need of a QB, Hayter is an incredible athlete and Hayter originally played QB on the JV squad as a freshmand before switching to tailback) . He later switched back to RB, opposing defenses were designed to stop him, and he still rushed for 1,603 yards on 258 carries (6.2 ypc) and scored 16 TDs in '98. In 1997, he rushed for 2,217 yds and scored 26 TDs. He also displayed excellent hands, grabbing nine balls for 150 more. Coach Wayne Hooks says told True Orange that Hayter "really blossomed as a big-time running back as a junior.  He's a tough inside runner who just keeps coming at you, and he also has the speed to take it all the way on any play.  He runs through arm tackles and he's just the complete package.  He can catch the ball too."  Brent Eads of Student Sports states that: "We saw him at the Houston NIKE camp where he was very impressive in the workouts. He is solidly built and has a V-shaped body (big upper body tapering down to powerful legs)." While running track in the spring, Hayter is actually increasing his muscle mass. He expects to be 220 lbs, at the same 4.4. speed, when he arrives in Austin in August. Needless to say, this pickup is looking better even than when Hayter originally committed. Preseason BP 285. 435 squat. 35" vertical. 10.5 100m. Chose Texas over Hayter had also been considering Nebraska, A&M, UCLA, Miami and LSU (all offered). Fully Qualified.
2000 Update:  Kenny played sparingly in backup minutes, but will be right in the thick of the battle for TB this spring.

Ryan Haywood, (25) DT/DE, 6-5, 270, 4.8, Denver Jefferson, CO. Both major Denver daily newspapers chose Haywood as their defensive player of the year. Haywood also received the Denver Post's 48th Golden Helmet Award, given annually to the state of Colorado's "top combination of schoolboy-football player/scholar/citizen." Ryan won't turn 18 until next year, yet can already bench 360.  His relative youth (compared to his competition) did not stop one Denver columnist from telling True Orange that Haywood "was a man among boys, jsut impossible to block one-on-one."  Here's why: Haywood had 25 sacks and 65 tackles (42 for losses!) last season despite being double teamed on most plays and also despite having teams run away from him on most plays. Nicknamed "Godzilla". Said one Big 12 recruiter "Talk about guys who have a chance to be a star in college, you have to talk about this man. Wait until he matures. He's going to be a monster."  Check out this comment that Coach Tim Cross told True Orange "He's the quickest play off the ball I've seen in high school. He has the potential to be as good as anybody." In 1997, Haywood managed 73 tackles, 11 sacks and 16 TFL. He finished his career with an astounding 48 total sacks over three years. He said he picked Texas because of the great combination of a football team on the upswing under a dynamic new coach and the great academic reputation UT possesses. Off the field, Haywood maintains a 3.7 GPA and wants to be a scientist. In a letter published in the Denver Post, Haywood explained why: " Two years ago my grandmother succumbed to cancer. I will never forget the hurt and sense of helplessness that I had during her illness. My goal of becoming a scientist upon graduating from college is steeped in the hope of being part of a scientific team that finds the cure for cancer. I want to take the word death out of the disease cancer." Chose Texas over CU (offered), Nebraska (offered), FSU, UCLA and Kansas State. Fully Qualified. Note: Haywood may end up being the the best pick-up of this incredible class.  These late-bloomer types consistently blow past recruiting service predictions, and Haywood was already considered a National Top 100 player by many services.  With his senior year growth (he just turned 17), incredible quickness and senior season which included 25 sacks (in a very competitive Denver district), this is the kind of kid that might have been rated near the top of many lists if he played that senior year at his size and speed in front of gurus and coaches in Texas, Florida or California.  Mad Dog must have drooled on Haywood's visit.
2000 Update: Ryan redshirted and looks to contribute significantly next year at DE with the graduation of Humphrey and Woodard.

Tillman Holloway, (98) DT/OG, 6-3, 296, 5.0 Arvada Faith Christian Academy, CO.  2 time 3A All State Player as a DL. Denver Post Super All-State Team (includes all classifications).  Holloway was a two way starter in high school. "I always get the QB," says Tillman. Holloway had 124 tackles and 6 sacks in leading his team to the Colorado Class 3A state championship this season. In 1997, He had 56 tackles and 14 sacks. The grandson of former Longhorn and pro great Bud McFadin, BP 340.  Both his parents and all four grandparents were graduated from Texas.  4 year starter on both the offensive and defensive lines. Led all 3A linemen despite playing both ways. Holloway lived in Houston until he was 12. The family moved to the Denver area at that time.Holloway chose Texas over Nebraska (camp), Washington (camp), CU, Michigan State and Washington State (all offered) among others. Fully qualified.
2000 Update:  Holloway moved to OG, redshirted and has very much impressed Texas' coaches.

Shane Hudnall, (43) K/P/WR, 6-2, 190, 4.55. All USA Punter by USA Today.  Texas football magazines player of the year award in 5A. Rated by most services as one of the top K/P prospects in the country, as a WR in 1998, Hudnall had 29 receptions for 617 yards (21.3 ypc) and seven TDs in '98. In 1998, he also averaged 44.5 yards/punt on 37 punts, kicked 3 FG's (in only 4 attempts accoring to Inside Texas) and had 35 PATs. In 1997, Hudnall averaged 37.3 on punts and connected on 6 of 10 FG attempts including makes of 54, 57 and 50 yds. Its unusual these days to see a kicker get a scholarship, and more unusual to see one commit before the season. Hudnall picked Texas because he believes Mack Brown can lead them to a national championship in the next five years. Hudnall enrolled in Texas in January and will participate in spring practices. He has a 280 lb. BP, 440 squat, 30" VL, 11.2 100m and 22.4 200m. Chose Texas over A&M and Baylor. Fully Qualified.
2000 Update:  After it appeared that Shane would not get significant playing time at WR in 1999, he decided to transfer.

OJ (Oneida Jerod) McClintock, (25) WR, 6-3, 195, 4.55, Round Rock Westwood, TX. Fantastic athlete and very elusive runner. No player was more valuable to a team than OJ. While hampered by turf toe for most of 1998, McClintock accounted for 244 of his team's 288 points. Moved to QB for the season, OJ completed 53 of 112 for 860 yards with nine TDs and five INTs.  Further showcasing his athletic skills, McClintock was a stellar return man, averagiing 31.6 yards per punt return and 22.5 yards per kick-off returns.  On the ground he rushed for 1,489 yards on 186 carries and 24 more scores. He also caught 10 passes for 244 yards with two TDs and returned two punts and one kickoff for scores. Averaged 31.6 yds per punt return (2 TDs) and 22.5 per kick off return.  OJ was 5A 2nd Team AP All-State at QB in 1998. He was the TSWA First Team 5A All-State kick returner and 3rd Team 5A All State QB. In 1997, he had 765 receiving yards and 735 yards on the ground. Also regarded as one of the top 20 basketball players in the state, in his Junior season, McClintock averaged 20.1 pts, 8.4 rebs, 3-plus assists and 2.5 steals while shooting 63% from the field.. Preseason BP 275. Vertical 39". While McClintock is not a track star, he has fantastic "football speed" -- he always seemed to accelerate away from DBs, no matter how fast they were.  Even with his big frame, he is as elusive a runner as has come out of the Austin area in several years (has amassed an incredible highlight reel).  Chose Texas over Oklahoma State, Texas A&M, Michigan, Nebraska, Notre Dame, UCLA, Michigan State, Kentucky, Duke and Baylor (all offered). Fully qualified.
2000 Update:  In order to get immediate PT, OJ played some safety after the injuries to Jammer and Butcher.  He will likely play LB or WR in 2000.

Antonio Moore, (NR) S, 6-0, 192, 4.45, Del Valle, TX. - Honorable Mention 4A All State. Played FS, "spy" LB, CB, TB, slot-back and kick/punt returner this past season. Toiling on a very below average squad, Moore managed to record 46 tackles with two INTs, two fumble recoveries and three caused fumbles.  Returned a kickoff for a TD. In 1997, he recorded 54 solos, 60 assists, 1 FR, 6 FC, 3 INTs and 2 defensive TDs (both over 50 yds). From Inside Texas:Coach Waldon said Moore "didn't have the opportunity to make the plays he made" defensively as a junior because opposing teams avoided him, regardless of where he lined up. Waldon said he started Moore at CB, but after three games, "no one would throw in his direction." To get Moore back in the action, Waldon moved him to free safety. "He can play either safety position," Waldon said. "He's physical enough to play SS but has great instincts at FS. Texas has recruited so many great players in the secondary, they'll just have to line 'em up and see where they all fit." Moore power cleans 270 and BP's 280. Squat 440. Vertical 33" 10.7 100m. Chose Texas over, A&M, OU, Florida, Michigan and FSU.
2000 Update:  Antonio redshirted in 1999.

Dakarai Pearson, (46) DB/WR, 5-10-1/2, 181, 4.43, Dayton, TX. Honorable Mention 4A All USA by USA Today as a QB. In 1998, playing through the entire season with an extremely painful hernia, Dakarai played QB for a Dayton team that went unbeaten during the regular season in 4A racking up over 3500 total yards (not including return yards) and leading his offense to average 38.5 pts per game -- all in his senior year. Only played in the second half of four regular season games.  Pearson completed 74 of 124 for 1,420 yards with 5 INTs and 7 TDs. On the ground, he rushed for 1,752 yards on 172 carries (10.2 avg) and scored 25 TDs and had 317 receiving yards.  Pearson also returned two punts for scores.  I'm not finished yet: in 1998 on the defensive side of the ball, Pearson  had 90 tackles and intercepted 5 passes (4 returned by TD's).  Honorable Mention 4A All-State. He played some defense, as well, in 1997 (in limited time, because he broke his arm halfway through the season), where at FS, Pearson recorded 44 solos, 73 assists, 3 FR, 4 FC, 2 sacks, 4 QB pressures, 11 tackles for losses, 6 pass deflections, 3 INTs and 2 defensive TDs. Wowed the Texas coaching staff with his cover ability at Texas' summer camp. From Inside Texas: According to coach Stewart, Pearson fits Carl Reese's prototype corner -- a strong kid who can defend a WR from the line of scrimmage into the defensive backfield. Pearson benches 325, squats 460, power cleans 290, and has a 36" vertical -- in Stewart's words, a "super athlete. He's a very quiet kid, not a rah-rah guy, just a player. And a good one, at that." Also plays basketball. Committed to Texas over A&M, Nebraska (offered) and OU.
2000 Update:  Dakarai redshirted in 1999, and looks to significantly contribute in 2000.

Cole Pittman, DE, (6) 6-3-1/2, 260, 4.7 Shreveport Evangel Christian, LA. In USA Today's Top 44 Players in USA.  Recruiters fell in love with Pittman's physical ability and attitude. Said one recruiter "Strong off the ball, qucik and aggressive. Top caliber. Dominates. An inside DL who could play tackle or nose". Another said "This guy is the second coming. He's another Grant Wistrom." In the preseason, like many great players, Pittman was quick to point out his weaknesses before his strengths: "I still need to get better all the way around. I need to be quicker off the ball and I need to get better separation. I pas rush very well and I anticipate well too." In the preseason, was ranked by Superprep as the #1 defensive linemen in the USA. In 1998, Pittman had 120 tackles (80 solo), 22 sacks, 5 forced recoveries and  5 forced fumbles.. Pittman had 115 tackles and 12 QB sacks as a junior in 1997. If Pittman's stats seem low, its because he usually played less than half of each game, because his high school ( ranked #3 in the USA this year) blew out almost every opponent it played by the first or second quarter (the team has won 3 straight state titles and has a 45 game winning streak). As well, teams ran away from Pittman's side of the field, which included one of the top national junior DL's, Stevie Lee (6'6", 310). Also on Evangel Christian is top national junior QB Brock Berlin. Pittman came to the NIKE camp in Texas and impressed with a 4.56 in the shuttle, 28" vertical leap and 21 reps on the bench. Fastest time was 4.68, and runs 4.7 consistently. Pittman had already increased his BP to 405 pounds by the end of his junior year. 550 Squat and 605 Dead Lift. Vertical 30". Pittman enrolled in Texas in January, and will participate in spring practices. Chose Texas over Florida (longtime fan), LSU, Nebraska, FSU, Ohio State, Penn State and Notre Dame (all offered). Fully qualified.
2000 Update: Cole actually played a little DT during passing situations last year, and should significantly contribute next year.

Alfio Randall, (4) OL, 6-5, 265, 4.8, Houston Yates. One of Texas' four Parade All-Americans.  Honorable Mention All USA player by USA Today.  Considered by some to be the best line prospect on either side (offense or defense) in the Houston area. Blessed with long arms and a wide frame, the National Recruiting Advisor said that "Randall has the most up-side of any O-linemen in the state and possibly in the country. So quick and athletic, he could easily move to the defensive side of the ball in college." Randle was named 2nd Team 5A All-State This Year. Yates' coach, Maurice McGowan, believes Randall may be the top player in Texas at any position. Randall was a rare three year starter at Yates. An All-Sport star at Houston Yates HS, Alfio plays varsity hoops as well as placing second in his district in the 50M freestyle. Has run a 4.73 last year. Even though Alfio says he needs to work on his strength and gaining some more weight, in the preseason, he benched 345, squatted 575, and dead lifted an impressive 410 pounds. From Inside Texas: He says he doesn't have a preference as far as a position, "I just want to play." Regarding Texas, Randall said: "They have good academic support, great computer facilities and great tutors for the student athletes, and there's just no reason for me to leave home. I'm a Texas kid, I'm a descendant of Texas, and I guess that's why Texas hasn't won a national championship, because players like me keep leaving the state and hurting the talent, so I'm going to stay at home and help Texas win the national championship." Chose Texas over Michigan, Miami, UCLA, Georgia, Tennessee, UNC (all offered) and a host of other schools.
2000 Update:  Alfio had clearinghouse issues, and enrolled in Blinn JUCO.  He plans on enrolling at Texas in the Spring of 2000.

Corey Redding, (2) LB, 6-5, 235, 4.55, Galena Park North Shore, TX. USA Today Defensive Player of the Year and All USA First Team at LB. One of Texas' four Parade All-Americans (top LB in USA by Parade). Redding was named the 5A All-State Defensive Player of the Year and First Team 5A All-State LB in 1998. In 1998 he had 215 tackles (103 solo), 22 TFL, 15 sacks, 25 QB pressures, 6 forced fumbles, 5 fumble recoveries, one safety and 4 ints.   Consider also that those outstanding stats were limited by North Shore's defense holding opponents to under 200 yards a game, which resulted in many less potential defensive plays for Redding.  In 1997, Redding recorded 56 solos, 60 assists, with 2 sacks and 4 INTs (3 for TDs) in '97. From Inside Texas: Cory is a tremendous athlete who took the State 5A discus title with a toss of 185.5 and his best heave on the year was over 192 feet. North Shore Coach David Aymond said "He can play inside, he can play outside, he can play as a down linemen and he can really run. We play him at LB becaue the offense has to locate him and account for him." Coach Aymond said: "Our Cory Watch as a coaching staff began a long, long time ago . . . when he was called to play a district game his freshman year and he had a quarterback sack. Right there, he was destined for greatness . . . Cory Redding has achieved many great things -- winning the state championship in discuss to being USA Today outstanding player of the year on defense to his three-point-zero average in his core classes. He is the ultimate, he is the whole package -- you know what he can do on the football field, but I'm talking about him as a person. People that haven't got to know him personally have missed a lot and those that are yet to know him are going to feel blessed. He's an outstanding person -- a credit to what athletics, football, young people are about. He is a great, great leader." Perhaps as impressive as any accolade was this statement by Student Sports made regarding their trip to Hawaii with the entire Rivalnet All-American team: "Redding was the most physically impressive looking kid on the trip, and of course I mean that in the most masculine way possible. Cory was also one of the most easy going kids and a lot of fun to be around. Some players just have a prescience about them that's hard to explain, but Cory has it. He's all of 6-6 and weighs right around 245-250 pounds." Redding has a 365 lb. BP, 620 lb. squat and 30" VL. Chose Texas over Arizona (brother attends; visited), CU (visited), Nebraska, FSU and A&M (all offered, along with a bevy of other schools). Academically has already partially qualified (Texas, and everyone else on the planet, promised him their PQ spot), and will try to fully qualify by September.
2000 Update:  Corey had significant minutes at DE in 1999, and will be a major contributor in 2000 with the graduation of Humphrey.

Tyrone Richardson, (20) RB/DE, 6-3, 240, 4.55. Honorable Mention All USA Player by USA Today.  Many say that Tyrone is, perhaps, the most athletic player in the state. Nails the eyeball test. the national Recruiting advossir called him "the toughest runner in the state, and is dinitely the most difficult to bring down. Arm tackles simply arent' possible." Could be one of the best fullback prospects in Texas in many years, but his size may make him even more valuable on defense. Texas will give him a shot in the backfield. In 1998, his Clarksville Tiger team had a brutal year, going 1-9 in '98 and being outscored 89-324, but Tyrone still managed to gain over 655 yards and 4 TDs (averaged 10 ypc). playing in only four games.  He also caught eight passes for 120 yards. First Team 3A All-State  In 1997, Richardson had 1,369 rushing yards and 17 TD's. Richardson made the All State Basketball Tournament team last year in leading Clarksville to the Class 3A State Championhip. A scout who saw him play basketball last season as a junior called Richardson "unstoppable". Richardson averaged 17 points and 10 rebounds per game as a junior. Also lettered in Tennis  Richardson said he chose Texas "because that's where I've always wanted to go. I really like the coaches and the players and I think Texas is going to be one of the top teams in the country under Coach Brown." Preseason BP 350. He also considered Texas A&M, Florida State (offered), Notre Dame, Iowa, Nebraska and TCU.
2000 Update:  Richardson had clearinghouse issues, but has now qualified and enrolled at Texas, and will retain his full eligibility.

Brett Robin, (NR) DB/TB, 5-11, 185, 4.42, Austin Westlake, TX. Robin was Honorable Mention 5A All-State this year as an RB. In 1997, Robin rushed for 1,510 yds on 131 carries with 23 TD's. Returned two kickoffs for TD's (105 and 95 yards). Even as a sophomore in 1996, Robin led the Chaps with 1,387 yds on 182 carries, including 22 TD's. Robin will play DB for Texas. From Inside Texas:According to Coach Schroeder, "Robin's way over 400 (pounds) in the squat and benches over 300 and has run a 4.42 forty. He's strong." Robin considered LSU, MO, Rice, Baylor, Vandy and A&M. Fully Qualified.
2000 Update:  Brett redshirted in 1999.

Bo (Oliver Edward)Scaife, (3) TE/WR 6-4, 220, 4.55, Denver Mullen, CO. One of Texas' Four Parade All-Americans. Second Team All USA TE by USA Today.  Rocky Mountain News Offensive Player of the Year, and the Gatorade Circle of Champions Colorado Player of the Year. Listed as a WR by most preseason publications (and the #2 WR in the USA by Superprep), one SEC college recruiter said that Bo was "[d]efintely the premier receiver in the country." Scaife has incredible athletic ability for his size, causing many to compare him to Denver Broncos TE Shannon Sharpe. In fact, Scaife said the Longhorns "run an offense similar to the Denver Broncos and I'll be used like Shannon Sharpe." Prepstar said that "Bo is quite arguably the top player in the country!" In 1998, despite drawing double teams, his stats were even better than they were as a junior, with 62 catches for 1,400 yards and 19 TDs.  He also rushed for 250 yards on 20 carries (12.5  yd average) with one TD.  He injured a knee after coming up huge, scoring 3 TDs, in the semifinals -- two on pass receptions (5 total receipts for 107 yds) and one on an 80-yard run from the tailback slot (had 154 yards on 7 rushes). Even at his size, Scaife returned kickoffs and played tailback for Mullen's championship team. Scaife returned four KO's for touchdowns of 72, 89, 97, 98 yards. His team defeated Cherry Creek for the state championship to finish 13-1. Scaife's surgery went well, and he should be at 100% ahead of schedule, sometime in April. In fact, Scaife is planning to move to Austin by mid-July to hang out before two-a-days start in August. In 1997, Scaife caught 50 passes for 850 yards and 5 TDs last season. He was even more dangerous on KO returns averaging 38 ypc and returned six for scores. Scaife also is a top baseball player who might be drafted (although his injury will keep him out this spring), but his mother said he plans to go to Texas. At a preseason combine Bo ran a 4.60 in the 40 (he was furious with that time), jumped 32" in the vertical and did 24 reps on the bench. BP 310. Squat 475. Scaife chose Texas over Georgia, Ohio State, Colorado, Nebraska and Washington (all offered). Fully qualified.
2000 Update:  As Bo's recovery from an ACL injury healed, he played significant minutes in late 1999.  He looks to be a big part of Texas' 2000 offense.

Chris Simms , (1) QB - 6'5", 218, 4.7, Ramapo, NJ. USA Today Offensive Player of the Year and First Team All USA.  One of Texas' Four Parade All-Americans.  Considered by many to be the best high school QB prospect in over a decade. Listed as the top player at any position on most nation 100 lists. Simms basic throwing mechanics are already better than many NFL QB's and his arm strength is very impressive. None of this should be surprising, given that Simms 2-hour/day physical regimen includes training with an Olympic javelin thrower to build arm strength and shoulder stability. Superprep reports that the consensus among college recruiters is that Simms is "[a]s good as you will find in a drop back style. Pretty flawless. Best in the country. Size, arm strength, and you can't just yank him down either. He is so polished. Fundamentally sound. Can't imagine anyone being any better." Loves the game of football, and everything associated with it. Simms: "I'm a student of the game. Football is my life. I am more into it than the other players. I have good arm strength and I just know how to play. I was brought up with it. I could get faster and I work on my footwork all the time." In fact, because of his workout regimen and the fact that he is beginning filling out his tall frame, Simms has dropped his 40 time to 4.6. He smartly calls on his father, NFL Super Bowl QB Phil Simms, to tutor him on mechanics and defense reading several times a week. Chris and Phil have a blast going over NFL game films reading defenses, breaking down game plans, etc. . (parents are supportive, but very careful not to be pushy) Throws so hard, you can hear the ball hit his receivers in the chest from the sideline, although this happens less frequently now that Simms has trained himself to control the velocity and trajectory of the different routes and throws he makes. Father Phil says that, when practicing, Chris gets angry at himself when, every now and then, he doesn't throw a perfect spiral, even though it hits his target in the chest (Phil jokingly calls Chris "anal"). One of Texas' four Parade All-Americans. Threw for 7,055 yards and 63 touchdowns in his high-school career. His senior year at Ramapo High he was 106 for 185 for 2,239 yds and 18 touchdowns with just four interceptions for 9-2 team, a team that he guided to the state title the year before. What really impresses the D1 schools is his knowledge of the game. He calls 40% of his teams plays checking off at the line of scrimmage. In 1997,he was 145 of 232 (62.5%) for 1,897 yds and 22 TDs with only 4 ints while leading his team to an 11-0 record and State Championship. As noted by Prepstar, "When looking at his stats - consider he accomplished most that while sitting out the second half due to blowouts.Only one of three players in history to be named to the Tri-State Team twice.  Only player in Ramapo history to start every game of his four year career, and Simms did it as a QB.  " The story of Simms' recruiting tells volumes about Mack Brown's and Texas' abilities to attract top talent. With no top passing QB's in Texas this year, Mack Brown and his staff decided "why not go after possibly the best QB to come out of high school in over a decade." Brown and staff had absolutely no connections to Simms or his NJ high school, and were coming off a 4-7 season that, frankly, did not make Texas look like QB-U. Still, with almost 100 schools competing for attention, Texas was 8th on Simms list of schools in the preseason, and managed to slowly move up, eventually securing one of the five official visits from Simms. The flight for Simms original visit was cancelled because of weather, but he finally made it down on December 4th.. Incredibly, Texas had made it into Simms top two (edging out childhood favorites Penn State and Ohio State). Simms chose Tennessee over Texas, but later -- after deciding that he put too much emphasis on playing time -- switched to Texas which he had liked better overall all along. Simms chose Texas over everybody, including probably some NFL agents. According to Inside Texas, Simms Coach Mike Miello said that"Certainly, the school, the academic part of it -- he's going to majorin finance and Texas is one of the best in the country as far as that goes.  And he thinks the of coach Brown and the staff and the relationship has started on a very strong note there. * * * As a high school coach looking at the college coaches who you think are really having an impact on the game, (Mack Brown) is really one of them. * * * Christopher has all the physical qualities you look for in a QB and the skill level is extremely, extremely advanced. * * * (Simms has) a tremendous, uncanny understanding of the game of football.  You couple that with tremendous leadership and competitive characteristics -- he really is the consummate QB bringing the total menu to the position.  Miello told True Orange that "He's the best player I've ever coached and he's the best player I've ever seen.  He has great athletic ability, he can see the filed and pick out secondary receivers and he is a great competitor with a very accurate delivery." Fully Qualified.  Note: looking at what Chris Keldorf did under Greg Davis in Davis' one year at UNC, and then what redshirt frosh overachiever Major Applewhite did this year in Davis' system, it may be an understatement to say that the sky is the limit for Chris Simms at Texas
2000 Update:  With the departures of Cicero and Dunn, Simms had to play last year, and performed well when he did play. He will likely start in 2000.

Chad Stevens, (31) TE, 6-4, 240, 4.9, Houston Cy-Fair, TX. Prepstar said that "This young man is known as one of the best blocking TEs in America." Stevens was Honorable Mention AP 5A All-State in 1998, 2nd Team TWSA 5A All State and a finalist for the Houston Touchdown Club Offensive Player of the Year. Stevens certainly has the frame to grow into an OL in college, but also has the versatility and athletic ability to remain a TE if he so chooses. In 1998, on a run oriented team, Stevens was able to make 38 receptions for 455 yards with 5 TDs and also latched onto three two-point conversions. He had 35 pancake blocks (60 for his career) and graded out at 92 percent. In 1997, caught 15 passes for 200 yds and 3 TDs. Coach Ronny Peacocks said "He's a tenacious kid who stays with his blocks." The athletic Stephens started as a Sophomore as a slot back. Stevens has been the team's deep snapper since 8th grade.  Dallas Cowboys TE David LeFleur is a first cousin. Stevens has a 260 lb. BP, 415 lb. squat and 26" VL. As a junior, Stevens placed 4th in Region in the discuss (155'). . Chose the Horns over ND, LSU and A&M. All three of those schools offered, with LSU ranking Stevens the second-best TE prospect in the nation and Notre Dame the first, according to Stevens' father, Homer. Fully qualified.
2000 Update:  Stevens played sparingly at TE last year, but willl likely get significant minutes in 2000.

Matt Trisell, LB, (90) 6-0, 225, 4.6, Teague, TX. First Team TWSA 3A All State and Honorable Mention 3A AP All-State. In 1998, Trissell proved to be a tough, hard-nosed competitor in '98 who recorded 121 tackles (82 solos) 10 tackles for losses, 2 sacks, 1 pass deflection, and 3 fumble recoveries, including 1 returned 45 yards for a TD. He also caused 2 fumbles in addition to blocking 2 punts and 2 extra points. All while anchoring a Teague defense which allowed only 266 yards per game. Trissell said "I like to play between the tackles and I need to work on being better from sideline-to-sideline. I have size, strength, quickness and good hands. . . I felt like with the tradition Texas has they could get the best athletes in the nation. I think with the staff Texas has now they can win the national championship before I get out of school." Trissell committed to Brown very soon after he was offered in Texas' camp. Preseason BP 340. Finished fourth in U.S. Jr Nationals in shot (60' 10" - great for a putter his size) and discus in 1997. Also runs the 110m hurdles.  Committed to Texas over Duke and Northwestern (both offered), TCU, Baylor Oklahoma State and Nebraska and OU. Fully Qualified.
2000 Update:  I think Trissell redshirted in 1999.

Marcus Tubbs, (48) TE/DE, 6-5, 245, 4.6 DeSoto, TX. Tubbs just started playing football as a junior, concentrating on basketball before that (17 points and 10 rebs a game as a junior). A fantastic mix of size, speed and quickness, Marcus has likely grown out of the TE position. From Inside Texas: He played TE this year for the Eagles and is being recruited as a TE by the Horns, though he'd be happy to play on either side of the ball. In 1998, Tubbs caught 28 passes for 353 yards and two TDs.  Preseason BP 270. Second cousin of former Longhorn and NFL LB Winfred Tubbs. Tubbs really emerged as a force on the field his senior year, after he decided to concentrate on football.  Tremendous potential..Chose Texas over Miami, A&M, Notre Dame, Nebraska, Michigan and SMU. Marcus said he'd received offers from A&M and SMU, but felt if he took his visits and waited until signing day there would've been a bunch more schools offering him. Fully Qualified.
2000 Update:  Tubbs moved to DE/DT, and redshirted in 2000 to gain strength and learn the position.

Kendrick Turner, (13) CB, 5-10, 170, 4.28, Dallas Kimball, TX. Turner, one of the state's top sprinters with a best time of 10.14 in the 100 meters, ran a 4.28 40 at the Texas Summer Camp, which was the best time any of the campers posted. He is considered by many to be the top CB in Texas during a very strong year for CBs. From Inside Texas: "What he has, we can't teach, and that's speed," said James Jones. "He knows how to run, and you're born with that." Kendrick headlined an outstanding Kimball secondary (which included BJ Ward). In 1998, Turner recorded 27 tackles with two INTs and 15 passes broken up. In 1997, only saw 4 balls come his way, with 1 "hitch" pass completed. Coach Jones told True Orange that Turner "really breaks on the ball well and has tremendous acceleration."  He also managed to record 50 tackles, with 1 FC, 5 passes broken up and 1 blocked kick. Turner also had 5 TDs as a RB. He has been a member of the crack Kimball relay teams since his freshman year and has run on two state championship relay teams. Coaches compare his athletic ability to former Kimball standouts Delon Washington and Michael Phillips.From Inside Texas:  Kimball coach James Jones said Turner "has been a starter since his sophomore year. He covers the other team's best receiver, and he does a good job of it. He's a fine football player and a fine young man." He said Turner intercepted five passes last three seasons and only allowed 10 completions. "They don't throw at him very often because he covers so well."  Also holding down Turner's stats was the smothering Kimball defense, which allowed only 9.2  points per game last year.  Jones said he has had several defensive backs sign Division I scholarships, including players who have started at Southern Cal and several Big 10 schools "and Kendrick Turner is as good as any of them. He's a fine player, and he doesn't make many mistakes, but he has the speed to recover if he does take a wrong step."   Preseason BP 205. Vertical 35". Chose Texas over PSU, Ohio State, Florida (offered), USC (offered), OU (offered), Tech (older brother plays there) and A&M (offered).
2000 Update:  Kendrick played some in 1999, but will battle for a starters job in the spring of 2000.

Ivan Williams, (18) RB/LB, 6-2-1/2, 220, 4.42. Cleveland, TX. The National Recruiting Advisor said that "[w]hile he is one of a handful of very good running backs in the state, Williams might be considered the top LB prospect if he were to dedicate himself to that position." A tremendous all-around athlete who was limited to seven games due to a hip injury, Williams still managed 1,266 yards rushing on 102 carries (12.4 ypc) and 18 TDs in '98. He also had one reception for 71 yards and another score. In 1997, Williams totaled 1,250 yards on just 90 carries (14.0 ypc) with an amazing 19 TDs. From Inside Texas: Former Cleveland coach Rowe said those totals could have been substantially higher if not for Cleveland's slot T offense, where two other backs accumulated almost 2,200 yards that same season. He also caught two passes for 12 yds. Williams has run 4 KO's back for TD's in his career.  One out-of-state recruiter told Prepstar, "all we ever saw Ivan do on film is run to daylight--and he can run". As a junior from his middle LB spot, Williams had 78 tackles, forced 12 fumbles and intercepted 2 passes. Williams blazed his 4.4 40 time on grass. Rowe likened Williams to a Herschel Walker or a Bo Jackson -- "big but very fast." Williams, who also plays basketball (second-team all-State in '98 after averaging 21 points, 10 rebounds and five blocks per game) and runs track for Cleveland, has been clocked at 10.4 seconds in the 100m, finishing as runner-up in the District 19-4A meet. Williams' step-brother Anthony Scott lettered for the Longhorns in 1987 and '90 under coach David McWilliams. BP 280. Squat 465. Has a 36" vertical. 22.0 100m. Has run a 4.37 (Rivalnet). Williams chose Texas over A&M, Nebraska, Florida State, Michigan and Northwestern (all had Williams in their top three RB targets).
2000 Update: Ivan redshirted and has really impressed Texas' coaches in practice.  He looks to make a major push for the starters job in the spring of 2000.