Official Signing Day Thread ...

[Herb Jones]

Well folks I was wondering how much this day means to Bearcat Nation ... I can guarantee not many of us were following this day as close as we are now 10 years ago ...

Anyone think there will be any surprise signings today?

Also, will UC ever have a Top 25 recruiting class?

Lastly, I wanted to give a quick shout out to Keith Wedinger ... You're my boy blue!;)

['nati streets]

Excited for today, glad somebody already made a thread.

I'm hoping for one surprise signing, not sure which position I would want the most but one surprise would be nice.

And as for the top 25 class I think it will take 10 years... maybe more. But if we continue a high level of success (at least 2 more Conference Championships, and two BCS wins) despite the Big East mix-up or addition that will be happening during that time, I think it will take 10 years.

[bearcatd]

We have to break top 50 before we can break top 25. If Butch can continue what BK started, I think we can get there in then next 4-5 years. From everything I've seen so far, Butch seems to have some "ins" with recruits that BK didn't - specifically outside of the Cincy area. We will see. Let's hope there's a positive surprise or two today. I don't expect a 5* surprise, but a 3* would one would be nice considering Butch and the staff have only been recruiting since around Christmas. Regardless, it looks like another solid class...right in line with what BK was bringing in.

[red_n_black_attack]

UC will have top 25 classes when the top rated players in Cincinnati stay home, then we can attract top rated players from out of the area. Let's take care of our own backyard.

Here's holding out a tiniest speck of hope for signing day surprises, calling out to....:

Jordan Hicks
Matt James
Preston Brown (soon to be felllow Northwest alum)
Dominique Brown
Andrew Hendrix
Alex Welch

[Irishbearcat]

Only good news today..hopefully.

[mjv780]

I'm hoping UC can sign a decent class, sounds like Coach Jones has been working hard since he got to Cincinnati. I don't know if we will ever be as crazy about signing day as OSU fans are - up here the sports talk radio has said they'll be providing signing updates every 20 minutes all day today - THAT is taking your football seriously.

[Irishbearcat]

That's where Cincinnati needs to be.

[bearcatd]

We need local sports shows all day for that to happen. I'm sure Mo and Nick will give updates during the 1530 sportsattacks throughout the day. I'm sure 700 will do the same.

[Irishbearcat]

I'm hearing things about every school BUT UC. The flow of information from the school is lagging. :(

[bearcatbret]

Keep in mind that BK came from Grand Valley State and only had a couple of years at Central Mich prior to his three years at UC. He never developed the recruiting relationships with BCS players. On the other hand, Jones has worked at Rutgers, WVU, and CMU and has had a much longer time to develop recruiting ties and across a much wider geographic area. Hopefully, that transcends into successful recruiting classes. I hope we all remember though that he was behind the 8-ball here at UC this year.

My hope is that we can become one of the top two classes each year in the BEast. Typically we are like 7th in the BEast so we need to shore that top spot up to remain competitive.

[Irishbearcat]

Sorry, I was speaking of the LOI's being signed, and how soon the info is coming out today. Most of ND's class has signed LOI's now, and I've heard zero on UC's class.

[Forsure21]

We will never keep up with Pitt, WVU and other until the players aren't running up Nippert stadium stairs at 6 AM but are inside a practice facility. Also, until Nippert is expanded we will continue to see similar recruiting classes.

[CincyBeercat]

19 NLI's are in according to Tommy G's Twitter... including Chenault, Tentman, Keebler, Beard, Hudson, Lefeld, Shepherd, Witty, Schloemer, Lewis, McClung, Russ, Kater, Drane, Robinson, Lloyd, Milianao, Lozano and Harrah. Also says they are expecting 2 more.

[Ole Skool Bearcat]

I believe UC has to keep the coach around for more than two or three years, continue the success winning championships, playing in BCS bowl games, and continuing to improve the facilities as well as upgrade the stadium or move into Paul Brown Stadium for select games or both to have a top 25 recruiting class. I am a visionary and I see a top 25 class between five and seven years from now.

[Racinejake]

Couple names I wasn't expecting in Cory Keebler (walkon?) and Deven Drane, ATH from Plantation, FL. Great to see Lozano sign with the Cats.

[Big B]

Here's list and times they signed.

http://www.gobearcats.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/10-cinn-fball-signingday.html

[Bearcat Cafe]

No Demetri Beal or Preston Brown LOI yet.

[CincyBeercat]

Munchie Legaux has signed, per Tommy G's Twitter.

[CincyBeercat]

As has Demitri Beal...

[Bearcat Cafe]

Huge!

25 friggin digits.....

[BearcatNationUC]

The kid's name is Munchie? Must have been a rough childhood.

[DCrack]

Interesting that Lakota West TE Alex Smith signed with Kentucky instead of NC.
Will Bellamy sign later in the period so he can make an official visit? Preston Brown is still possible.

[shaunsimpson]

If you look at the list there are a couple of surprises.

[broeli]

Interesting that Lakota West TE Alex Smith signed with Kentucky instead of NC.
Will Bellamy sign later in the period so he can make an official visit? Preston Brown is still possible.

Bellamy is set to visit this weekend and is expected to sign after or during his visit.

[Bearcat Cafe]

Preston Brown is going to UL.

[bearcatd]

Interesting TJ Weist was just hired and he ended up recruiting Legaux. I'm thinking he and Jancek might give us some inroads to recruiting the south.

[Thegreatone]

Munchie is the big signee of the day. HUGE news for the bearcats.

[broeli]

I am VERY happy we got Munchie. Takes the sting out of losing D. Brown.

[bearcatd]

Not seeing Mason on the list yet. Has he changed his mind or are we just not seeing it yet?

[bearcatd]

...or is it due to his walk-on status (I see the kickers so I figured not)?

[Ding Chavez]

I'm friends with one of Preston Brown's coaches, he just confirmed that Preston said he's going to UL. FWIW.

[DCrack]

Okay, I know Munchie was recruited by Pac 10 schools and the like but why is he such a big catch? Is he more in-line to replace Collaros than Kay and Kator? Just looking for answers.

[Oldtimer_UC_fan]

What does anyone know about Munchie Legaux?

[daap_bearcat97]

That really sucks about Preston...but onward and upward, good luck at Loserville. We could have used another physical LB with speed!

Yeah, anyone have any word on Mason, it is odd his name is not on the list yet...change of heart???

Muchie is a huge get IMO...with some development he may be a star, but time will tell.

I would love to close the class with the addition of Bellamy, but the more I continue to see is that the news may have been way premature and that he may not even be visiting. Keeping fingers crossed, I would love to get this guy!!

[GoBearcats31]

Very excited about Munchie and the rest of the guys have joined UC.

Don't know anything about this Devan Drane, but his brother (I assume, same name and same high school in Florida) plays for IU.

[bearcatd]

Also Matt James to ND.

http://cincinnati.com/blogs/preps/2010/02/03/breaking-news-james-commits-to-notre-dame/

[DOOGINS]

When we can keep a Matt James type we will have a top 25 class. Kerry Combs is the man in this town. Glad Butch kept him in town. This class will keep us in the Big East Hunt.

[GoCats1994]

What does anyone know about Munchie Legaux?

If you smoke Pitt, you've got the Munchies?

Sorry... Couldn't help myself.

[CincyBeercat]

If you smoke Pitt, you've got the Munchies?

Sorry... Couldn't help myself.

Outstanding! I see that on student section t-shirts in the 'Cats future. :D

[Forsure21]

When we can keep a Matt James type we will have a top 25 class. Kerry Combs is the man in this town. Glad Butch kept him in town. This class will keep us in the Big East Hunt.

Won't be able to keep any of the players getting elite offers until Nippert is improved unless the kid is just dead set on UC. All the elite schools just have so much to offer...

[broeli]

What does anyone know about Munchie Legaux?

He's essentially rated a 4 star (.1 off from being Rivals 4*). He's a dual threat qb that prefers to play qb but if it doesn't work out he's not opposed to playing other positions. I've read that he is VERY athletic and people have seen him play other positions like safety and he looked great. Look at his Rivals offers. He said he wanted to go to a school where he would have a chance to compete for qb and that he didn't want to go to a school that had 7 qbs on the roster giving him no shot.

[bearcatbret]

I would not sell UC facilities short. With the practice facilities completed this fall, we address most of our needs. The Lindner Center is second to none and Nip is the Wrigley field of college football. UC is on TV all of the time now so that is a big plus as well. I watched several games this year of BCS teams that have only 40-50 k stadiums and it appeared that a fifth of the stadium was empty. Nippert looks great on TV when it is packed. Yes, hopefully we will have the demand for a larger stadium and have the resources to build it but for now, I would not sell it too short.

Many kids go to where they have dreamed off since the were playing pee-wee.

[BigDawg]

Good class and I think if Butch steps in and keeps the Cats playing well, that next years class could be huge. Players will see that it is now a program and not a coach! Really excited about Munchie. Had a heck of an offer list.

[daap_bearcat97]

Anyone know why Corey Mason's name isn't on the list? I know we have several "prefered walk-ons" with the kickers and maybe Keebler? Just checking.

Also, is there any new "solid" info on Bellamy? Is he visiting or not...conflicting reports all over...most suggest he is not really coming. This would really suck as I feel we REALLY needed a solid RB in this class.

Go Cats!

[Big B]

He's essentially rated a 4 star (.1 off from being Rivals 4*). He's a dual threat qb that prefers to play qb but if it doesn't work out he's not opposed to playing other positions. I've read that he is VERY athletic and people have seen him play other positions like safety and he looked great. Look at his Rivals offers. He said he wanted to go to a school where he would have a chance to compete for qb and that he didn't want to go to a school that had 7 qbs on the roster giving him no shot.

He's a tall kid at 6' 4" and he's a pocket passer, he'll stand in a find an open receiver before he takes off. I'm sure the success of LeFevour is what attracted him to Coach Jones. Look for him to redshirt along with Cator next year and both will battle for starting spot in 2012.

With the addition of these two qb's and Collaros in the next 2 years barring injury, Kay will probably look to transfer this summer.

[dbernie41]

Bellamy would be HUGE for this class. We need a RB soooo badly. All those reports made it sound as though it was almost a done deal.

[Bearcatfan47]

This Munchie kid looks like he has the potential to fit really well into BJ's system. I tend not to really care too much what a kid's star rating is. I'm sure BJ's biggest concern is getting a kid who fits into his system. No one knew anything about guys like Pike, Collaros, or Gilyard when they were coming out so all you can hope is that 2 years down the road some of the kids that we are snagging today will be making an impact on the field. I trust Butch to get the job done.

[norwoodbearcat]

We need bigger faster linemen. That's what will allow us to compete.

[bearcatbret]

Remember that Mardy started out on the defensive side of the ball under MD. If any of these recruits are athletic enough to be on the field, I say play them where we have the need.

[colocat]

We need bigger faster linemen. That's what will allow us to compete.

And Linebackers.

[norwoodbearcat]

We have athletes and skill players but we are losing the size and strength game.

[Big B]

Look at Texas, every recruit is ranked in the top 8 at their position. I think the highest we have is 33. Maybe one more BCS invite will get us there or even a win.

[Helicopter]

Matt James will play for ND.

[dbernie41]

This class has alot of tall bodies with good frames that can hopefully be molded into some monsters by CJ's S&C coach.

[colocat]

For all of the changes that went on recently, I'm very happy with this class, especially some of the last-minute gems - the two Elder players, Munchie, Roney, etc. Just found Tom Lemming's Top 100 from last summer. Munchie came in at 98 - http://www.maxpreps.com/news/hyb7OUPhEd6pcwAcxJTdpg/lemming-unveils-maxpreps-class-of-2010-top-100.htm.

Despite the losses, which do indeed sting, we have some gems in this class.

[Irishbearcat]

Pretty solid class for a new coach. Jones is doing well thus far. He'll be able to establish his own relationships with players, and if UC does well next year, the '11 class will be even better (regardless of facilities).
Jones needs to make his own name, as well as continue to sell the fact that Cincy is a winner.

[Helicopter]

Look at Texas, every recruit is ranked in the top 8 at their position. I think the highest we have is 33. Maybe one more BCS invite will get us there or even a win.

Try national titles, supreme facilities, and decades of tradition and pro prospects.

Guys, keep your expectations realistic. We can beat them on the field but not in the recruiting battle.

[Cpaw]

I keep reading about the recruiting rankings and I get it, trust me. I want some high recruits, but I am not enamored by it. We need kids that fit our system and then great coaching and we will be fine. I am happy with the Lazano signing, I think he is huge for our defensive front. Some of the LB's we signed have decent size finally. Munchie is great and if we can get Bellamy that will be the icing. Also, Witty I think is a huge pickup for our secondary. This is a solid class, much better than what the ranking says.

[Forsure21]

Very good class IMO. I don't think losing out on D Brown was a big deal now with Munchie in the MIX.

[dbernie41]

I see Bellamy signed his LOI with USF. That hurts :(

[Helicopter]

I see Bellamy signed his LOI with USF. That hurts :(

That's rough, I really wanted to see a big RB like that.
On the bright side if he had eligibility issues in '09 it might not turn out so rosey.

[Forsure21]

I can't believe we didn't sign 1 single RB. Most schools recruit multiple RB's every single year.

[Thegreatone]

Where did you see that he signed with USF?

[dbernie41]

I can't believe we didn't sign 1 single RB. Most schools recruit multiple RB's every single year.

Yeah we reallllly needed a RB and now at LEAST 2 next year.

[mjb1979]

I can't believe we didn't sign 1 single RB. Most schools recruit multiple RB's every single year.

That's the result of only running the ball a couple of times per game for the last few years. More balance on offense = more running backs interested in playing for you.

[Cpaw]

I see Bellamy signed his LOI with USF. That hurts :(

I would like to know where you see this. It is not anywhere, including the USF website where they list commitments.

[Big B]

I see Bellamy signed his LOI with USF. That hurts :(

They have USF Holtz on ESPNU right now and they showed his signed recruits and Bellamy is not on there as of 11:23 am.

[bearcatd]

Bellamy was a commit to USF for 2009, didn't make the grades and went to prep school. He still had an offer for this year from Leavitt. When Holz came in, he pulled the offer. This is info as of last week. Not sure if that changed in the past couple of days.

[broeli]

I see Bellamy signed his LOI with USF. That hurts :(

Where do you see that? He signed last year with USF but didn't qualify acedemically. He was told there wasn't room for him by USF in this years class.

[colocat]

Where do you see that? He signed last year with USF but didn't qualify acedemically. He was told there wasn't room for him by USF in this years class.

My guess is that he saw this from last year, which does have a check mark next to the LOI - http://cincinnati.scout.com/a.z?s=341&p=8&c=1&nid=3614995

[RedRocker]

Nowhere at gousfbulls.com or tampabay.com.

[shaunsimpson]

Bellamy signed last year, but didn't qualify. If - and big if - if comes to UC then he will not sign a LOI, but will sign scholarship papers.

[vegasbearcat]

It was reported yesterday that Preston Brown admitted to giving conflicting information to different reporters to "mess with them". Now he is stretching the waiting time out throughout the day. This behavior is a big red flag to me and where are his parents teaching him that this is incredibly inapropriate behavior? I know he's a kid but that seems a little bit off to me.

[psax889906]

The Cory Keebler commitment came out of nowhere for me, but out of it it should be noted that as far as I see it, any elite prospects out of Lakota East in the future we should have a VERY good shot at securing... for those who don't know, East's head coach is none other than Rick Haynes, the mastermind behind the Triple Option at Colerain who worked side by side with Kerry Coombs.

[mjb1979]

The Cory Keebler commitment came out of nowhere for me, but out of it it should be noted that as far as I see it, any elite prospects out of Lakota East in the future we should have a VERY good shot at securing... for those who don't know, East's head coach is none other than Rick Haynes, the mastermind behind the Triple Option at Colerain who worked side by side with Kerry Coombs.

To bad the last time Lakota East had an elite prospect was never. The best prospects in that district go to West.

[bearcatfan80]

Here is the link to Bellamy to Cincinnati
http://cincinnati.scout.com/2/943136.html

[psax889906]

To bad the last time Lakota East had an elite prospect was never. The best prospects in that district go to West.

Uhh, good one? You don't discount connections, no matter where they are and you obviously don't burn bridges... I'll be hoping in the next couple years a stud prospect goes to East just so I can rub it in a little. :D

They should give Haynes the job at West anyways, Cox is a joke and consistently fails to get over the Colerain hump with equal to greater talent than the Cardinals. :)

[bearcatd]

I read recently that Bellamy to UC was premature. We will see soon I guess.

[bearcatfan80]

I read recently that Bellamy to UC was premature. We will see soon I guess.

Yeah it's definitely not a done deal. His videos that I saw with his size and his elusiveness are amazing. So is Preston Brown the only verbal that has not signed?

[catscratchfever]

I wonder how big of an impact UC in the sugar bowl had on getting Munchie to choose the 'Cats? With 20k bearcats fans in his hometown, you have to think that had an affect.

[leeey]

I wonder how big of an impact UC in the sugar bowl had on getting Munchie to choose the 'Cats? With 20k bearcats fans in his hometown, you have to think that had an affect.

CNati article about LeGaux recruitment including a line about him being at the Sugarbowl:

http://cnati.com/college/coveted-qb-jumps-to-bearcats-001192/

[dbernie41]

Nowhere at gousfbulls.com or tampabay.com.

Yeah sorry... when I clicked the link to his profile earlier it was his rivals profile from last year. Lets hope we still get him!

As far as Preston Brown goes I had considered him lost at this point and if we can still bring him in and Bellamy this will be one **** of a first class for CJ.

[bearcatfan80]

read below lol

[bearcatfan80]

Yeah sorry... when I clicked the link to his profile earlier it was his rivals profile from last year. Lets hope we still get him!

As far as Preston Brown goes I had considered him lost at this point and if we can still bring him in and Bellamy this will be one **** of a first class for CJ.

I agree. Let Preston Brown go to Loserville and get 45 points put up on him by the Cats.

[mjb1979]

Uhh, good one? You don't discount connections, no matter where they are and you obviously don't burn bridges... I'll be hoping in the next couple years a stud prospect goes to East just so I can rub it in a little. :D

They should give Haynes the job at West anyways, Cox is a joke and consistently fails to get over the Colerain hump with equal to greater talent than the Cardinals. :)

Fair enough. It's also worth noting that a lot of kids avoided East because they didn't want to play for Bailie. Can't blame them for that. Cox is not a good X's and O's guy but kids like playing for him. Too bad he is all about OSU. I was happy to see that we held onto Schloemer, though. They have a couple pretty good juniors right now who are BCS caliber prospects. Hopefully we can make an inroads with them.

[bearcatfan80]

Loving the Munchie highlights! Huge pick up

[colocat]

I agree. Let Preston Brown go to Loserville and get 45 points put up on him by the Cats.

Louisville's site is reporting that Brown has sent in his LOI.

[Thegreatone]

Preston... have fun trying to stop us haha.

No best of luck to him. No problems at all. We are loaded for a couple years.

[bearcatfan80]

I have full confidence that Coach Jones will continue to recruit some studs for years to come. No worries on Brown leaving.

[#41]

I don't know a thing about him, but I'm planning on rooting hard for Munchie Legaux to succeed.

That name demands superstardom.

[Thegreatone]

Ha Agreed!

[bearcatfan80]

I don't know a thing about him, but I'm planning on rooting hard for Munchie Legaux to succeed.

That name demands superstardom.

I hope Munchie is not a nickname that he was giving because of smoking a lot of weed.

[bearcatfan80]

Soloman Tentman looks like a bad bad man! I haven't seen him play. I hope he is as intimidating on the field as he looks in his picture.

[Thegreatone]

I hope Munchie is not a nickname that he was giving because of smoking a lot of weed.

Mom gave it to him after being known for eating a lot of snacks as a little kid. First name is Benton.

[bearcatfan80]

Mom gave it to him after being known for eating a lot of snacks as a little kid. First name is Benton.

Good. Glad to hear it wasn't a street name.

[#41]

"You got Pead on" meet "You got Munchied"

[Racinejake]

We definitely needed a big LB and Tentman is a physical speciman. Rivals seems to like him a lot more than scout listing him as the #18 LB prospect in the country. His bench press max is listed at 425 lbs!

[bearcatfan80]

We definitely needed a big LB and Tentman is a physical speciman. Rivals seems to like him a lot more than scout listing him as the #18 LB prospect in the country. His bench press max is listed at 425 lbs!

Hold crap. 425 is pretty beast!

[Thegreatone]

I think the DT from Miami could start right away

[bearcatfan80]

Here is a sweet YouTube video of Punter John Lloyd and his crazy strong leg. Sorry if this has already been posted. Thought it was pretty cool. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_CmKUzA5JjA&feature=related

[Racinejake]

The UC signing day event at Kingsgate is sold out. This is a great sign of fan support.

http://www.gobearcats.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/10-cinn-fball-signingday.html

[Lobot]

Munchie Legaux has signed, per Tommy G's Twitter.

I think this qualifies as our surprise signing

[bearcatfan80]

I haven't heard of this guy yet. Fullback Deven Drane. Signed with UC. Looks like he was going to be a CMU commit. Oops
http://rivals.yahoo.com/cincinnati/football/recruiting/player-Deven-Drane-106246

[Thegreatone]

I believe Drane will play in the defensive secondary at UC.

[dbernie41]

Any word on Bellamy yet?

[bearcatfan80]

Latwan Anderson is still listed as a soft verbal to WVU. Maybe he wants to be a Bearcat after all! ;)

[bearcatfan80]

Any word on Bellamy yet?

I have not heard anything new on Bellamy :(

[Goon Squad Leader]

Latwan Anderson is still listed as a soft verbal to WVU. Maybe he wants to be a Bearcat after all! ;)

Anderson is taking an official to USC soon. That seems to be the holdup with him.

[bearcatfan80]

Anderson is taking an official to USC soon. That seems to be the holdup with him.

That guy sure does like his free trips

[Thegreatone]

We have 1 open scholly to my counting.

[bearcatfan80]

We have 1 open scholly to my counting.

Hopefully its saved for Bellamy

[bearcatfan80]

The Official Signing Day Press Conference can be watched here at 3pm!
http://all-access.cbssports.com/player.html?code=cinn&media=163550

[bearcatfan80]

Butch says 22 signings

[Tom Alverson]

I think this qualifies as our surprise signing

And he is immediately inducted into the UC "All Name" team alongside Puffy Kennedy, Jelly Jones among others.

[Best Body]

Try national titles, supreme facilities, and decades of tradition and pro prospects.

Guys, keep your expectations realistic. We can beat them on the field but not in the recruiting battle.

I'd love to split the difference in recruiting between Texas and UC, though. I understand that it may take a long, long time for UC to get to the point where all of its signees are in the top 8 for their positions like Texas, but it'd be a massive improvement for UC football if they could start landing multiple guys that are around 20 or so at their position, and be at least close to a top 25 recruiting class. There's no reason why UC shouldn't be able to recruit like Pitt in the relative near future.

[Helicopter]

I hope Munchie is not a nickname that he was giving because of smoking a lot of weed.

Nearly as intriguing is Legaux's nickname, which he has carried proudly since age 2 when family members tickled by the sight of his attempts to chew food minus two front teeth replaced Benton Shannon with Munchie.

"I prefer to go by Munchie because my dad's name is Benton and (Munchie) distinguishes me," Legaux said.

"At one time, nobody knew his first name was Benton," Karr Coach Jabbar Juluke said. "He was Munchie to everybody except me. I'd call him Benton when I was mad at him."

[vegasbearcat]

No Bellamy in the press conference. Not good. Preston Brown, Bellamy, Black, Boston, and others. Big losses.

[Helicopter]

I'd love to split the difference in recruiting between Texas and UC, though. I understand that it may take a long, long time for UC to get to the point where all of its signees are in the top 8 for their positions like Texas, but it'd be a massive improvement for UC football if they could start landing multiple guys that are around 20 or so at their position, and be at least close to a top 25 recruiting class. There's no reason why UC shouldn't be able to recruit like Pitt in the relative near future.

Agreed, a much tempered expectation. I for one see constant improvement and as long as we minimize the steps backwards we will be there some day.

[Racinejake]

I think the Bellamy situation is still fluid. Remember that today is only the first day of the signing period so he still has time to make a decision. I wonder if in the 22 Butch is including Corey Mason?

[shaunsimpson]

No Bellamy in the press conference. Not good. Preston Brown, Bellamy, Black, Boston, and others. Big losses.

Bellamy wouldn't be a signing day guy anyway. I think he would sign scholarship papers and that is it. No LOI so he isn't part of it.

That in no way is saying that he will be part of the class.

[Thegreatone]

No Bellamy in the press conference. Not good. Preston Brown, Bellamy, Black, Boston, and others. Big losses.

We filled their sports with new recruits that many believe are better.

Bellamy is not a lose. Never had him and I am not sure we want him. NO ONE is recruiting him.

Black was a big lose.

Boston... eh yeah I guess.

Munchie, Witty and Lorenzo make up for those loses and then some IMO.

[mjb1979]

No Bellamy in the press conference. Not good. Preston Brown, Bellamy, Black, Boston, and others. Big losses.

You're right. I don't know why we even bother to continue fielding a football program.

[Big B]

I'd love to split the difference in recruiting between Texas and UC, though. I understand that it may take a long, long time for UC to get to the point where all of its signees are in the top 8 for their positions like Texas, but it'd be a massive improvement for UC football if they could start landing multiple guys that are around 20 or so at their position, and be at least close to a top 25 recruiting class. There's no reason why UC shouldn't be able to recruit like Pitt in the relative near future.

And when you have 4 or 5 of those type players within 20 miles of the school, you have to be able to pull 1 of them. Blows me away that we lost Alex Smith to Kentucky, their terrible. I understand the others, not to often you get to play for Texas, Notre dame, and Michigan, but Kentucky. ughh!!!

[catscratchfever]

No Bellamy in the press conference. Not good. Preston Brown, Bellamy, Black, Boston, and others. Big losses.

seriously man? All you can do is point out what we lost and not what we gained?
by the way, bellamy isn't even rumored to visit until this weekend so there is no way he would have signed with UC today.

[bearcatbret]

I am not too sure that P. Brown is a loss. We all talk about needing size and he does not bring that. The only thing that bothers me about the loss is that he is a local guy.

[bearcatfan80]

And when you have 4 or 5 of those type players within 20 miles of the school, you have to be able to pull 1 of them. Blows me away that we lost Alex Smith to Kentucky, their terrible. I understand the others, not to often you get to play for Texas, Notre dame, and Michigan, but Kentucky. ughh!!!

Makes no sense with Smith. He decommited from UC for UNC, which I guess I can understand. Then goes to UK??? huh?

[catscratchfever]

And when you have 4 or 5 of those type players within 20 miles of the school, you have to be able to pull 1 of them. Blows me away that we lost Alex Smith to Kentucky, their terrible. I understand the others, not to often you get to play for Texas, Notre dame, and Michigan, but Kentucky. ughh!!!

It's tough to recruit a top tight end to a team that really doesn't run an offense that utilizes the TE that much. If you are trying to make the NFL, you want to be in a system where you can run block and be a featured receiver. UC doesn't run much, and their offense is designed around throwing to WR's.

[cpawstoney]

Lakota East's Keebler to play at UC
http://www.pulsejournal.com/sports/high-school-sports/lakota-east/lakota-east-s-keebler-to-play-at-uc-527980.html

Keebler is headed to the University of Cincinnati as a grayshirt, which means delaying initial enrollment to the winter term, thus counting him towards the 2011 recruiting class.

[Big B]

It's tough to recruit a top tight end to a team that really doesn't run an offense that utilizes the TE that much. If you are trying to make the NFL, you want to be in a system where you can run block and be a featured receiver. UC doesn't run much, and their offense is designed around throwing to WR's.

I'd have to somewhat disagree, Ben had a lot of touches this year. He was the 2nd leading receiver if I'm not mistaken, maybe 3rd behind Binns.

[shaunsimpson]

We filled their sports with new recruits that many believe are better.

Bellamy is not a lose. Never had him and I am not sure we want him. NO ONE is recruiting him.

Black was a big lose.

Boston... eh yeah I guess.

Munchie, Witty and Lorenzo make up for those loses and then some IMO.

Can't leave out McClung, Robinson, Kater and Lazono....along with the special teams kids.

[FBBBUCfan]

We filled their sports with new recruits that many believe are better.

Bellamy is not a lose. Never had him and I am not sure we want him. NO ONE is recruiting him.

Black was a big lose.

Boston... eh yeah I guess.

Munchie, Witty and Lorenzo make up for those loses and then some IMO.

Agreed, greatone. They actually do look like better gets.

The hard part was losing local guys - more ego pain than actual program-pain, probably.

[shaunsimpson]

I'd have to somewhat disagree, Ben had a lot of touches this year. He was the 2nd leading receiver if I'm not mistaken, maybe 3rd behind Binns.

4th behind Woods, but we have 3 in the top 10 and those 3 are ahead of or tied with the 4th receiver. Ben is 4th ahead of the RBs and then we have Robinson and Ali up there as well. Then bones comes in with 10 catches.

[mjb1979]

Another point: There is no guarantee that any of the guys who decommitted would have stayed if we didn't change coaches. Kids decommit all the time. That's just how it goes.

[catscratchfever]

Another point: There is no guarantee that any of the guys who decommitted would have stayed if we didn't change coaches. Kids decommit all the time. That's just how it goes.
Good Point
Alex Smith decomitted when Brian Kelly was still our coach

[daap_bearcat97]

Don't forget that we will get the services of Demarcus Bracy, Monte Taylor and Josh Jones in 2010...all greyshirted in 2009. So this just adds to the potency of our team for 2010. From what was discussed last year, BK and co. thought extremely high of Monte Taylor, great speed and just a physical specimen off the D edge?!? Hopefully Demarcus Bracy and Josh Jones can contribute at a high level as well?!?

I asked the question of coach Jones about a RB for this class, and his response was that they are actively seeking a RB and are searching nationally for the right back...so we will see in the days, weeks or months ahead what that brings.

Go Cats!

[Racinejake]

Maybe this is a topic for a new thread, but who does everyone think has the best chance of contributing early in this class? I'm thinking there's a great opportunity for someone like Chenault as safety if he can impress during camp. If we're including guys who grayshirted then I definitely think Monte Taylor makes an impact this year.

[red_n_black_attack]

A pass catching TE will flourish in this offense and get plenty of opportunity that he can play both standing up and from 3-point stance. This ain't the offense that sent Celek to the NFL, but it is the same school, facilities, etc...

I see UC as a destination spot for TE's much the same way Missouri and Oklahoma have been.

Congrats to Butch and the entire staff on a job well done, can't wait to see spring practice and game!! We get Pitt at home next year and I hope the schedule makers are kind enough to make it an early season game where we can run circles around their winded butts! I don't want the "marquee game" at end of year, I want it as close as possible to the beginning. The earlier we rise up the rankings, the better our shot at the title game.

[leeey]

Maybe this is a topic for a new thread, but who does everyone think has the best chance of contributing early in this class? I'm thinking there's a great opportunity for someone like Chenault as safety if he can impress during camp. If we're including guys who grayshirted then I definitely think Monte Taylor makes an impact this year.

Do grey shirts work out with the team or are they on their own?

[bearcatbret]

Grey shirts are not enrolled officially in the fall so they would not participate during football season. They would begin school in January so they would begin with the team at that time and also practice during the spring.

[bobestes]

When evaluating this class and considering "what-ifs", I hope that everyone keeps in mind that this is the highest-rated class in University of Cincinnati football history.

[vegasbearcat]

Can't leave out McClung, Robinson, Kater and Lazono....along with the special teams kids.

Good points. After looking at our class I'd say that Butch has done a great job. He did hang on to some top guys and and bring new better ones. Especially Kater over Massa. I feel really good about it now.

One thing I noticed was coach Jones has brought in a lot of big guys. By that I mean look at how many 6'6 and 6'7 guys that are coming. Looks very promising.

[Big B]

Maybe this is a topic for a new thread, but who does everyone think has the best chance of contributing early in this class? I'm thinking there's a great opportunity for someone like Chenault as safety if he can impress during camp. If we're including guys who grayshirted then I definitely think Monte Taylor makes an impact this year.

There's 7 open positions on def., and with Adrian Witty-CB alrighty enrolled in school and will be in spring practice, I think he's a lock. With Lozano's size he has a good shot. John Lloyd will definitely start. My guess all the offensive players will redshirt, except maybe Lewis, he'll probably return kicks.

[cmm27]

McClung will most likely be the a return man before Lewis.

[BackInBlack]

Dyjuan Lewis isn't a KR. McClung, with 4.3 (supposed) speed is the much better KR option. Lewis projects to be more of a Binns type receiver.

[GoCats1994]

I asked the question of coach Jones about a RB for this class, and his response was that they are actively seeking a RB and are searching nationally for the right back...so we will see in the days, weeks or months ahead what that brings.

Go Cats!

Other than Bellamy...what could this mean? Potential JuCo's?

[DCrack]

Other than Bellamy...what could this mean? Potential JuCo's?

Bellamy is not signed aware else. He is not listed under USF and all the other sites still have him uncommitted. I read earlier on this thread that he was coming up to make visit and would probably sign then.

[GoCats1994]

Sorry...should have been more clear.

Id Butch referring specifically to Bellamy...or do you guys know of other options at this point?

I guess what I am asking is... Where else could we go right now to find a RB? (Other than Bellamy). Is he our only option? Or are there others that I am not aware of?

[Big B]

Dyjuan Lewis isn't a KR. McClung, with 4.3 (supposed) speed is the much better KR option. Lewis projects to be more of a Binns type receiver.

In Coach Jones 3 pm press conf. they showed clips of both players, Lewis ran back a 90 yd kickoff and McClung ran back a 80 yd punt. Lewis will by running that fly pattern, probably 2 or 3 times a game and returning kicks.
CJ mention that it was the screen plays McClung ran that caught his attention. Its tough to find a good punt returner and McClung looked pretty dang good.

[leeey]

Sorry...should have been more clear.

Id Butch referring specifically to Bellamy...or do you guys know of other options at this point?

I guess what I am asking is... Where else could we go right now to find a RB? (Other than Bellamy). Is he our only option? Or are there others that I am not aware of?

Coach Butch did a live chat on the cincinnati enquirer. He said that he'll continue to recruit but didn't find a high caliber RB recruit for this class. i think, barring some massive u-turns, this class closes without a RB prospect.

[BackInBlack]

High school is not college. The fly pattern is completely different than returning kicks. Returning kicks is better for the smaller, real shifty, quick players that move well in space. I see Lewis as a stronger receiver that can fight off coverage and get open on deep/intermediate routes. The two types of receivers are completely different. Dyjuan is a homelss man's Julio Jones. Julio Jones is the latter type and he has returned all of 12 total kicks in two years. McClung is the guy that gets open in space, ala Mardy, and is able to return kicks because he is very shifty and can fly.

[Jmac84]

I guess I didn't really notice this until reading the enquirer article on this class, but we only have 3 scholarship QBs on the roster for next year. What are everyone's thoughts on this? I guess we could redshirt both of the freshman QB's and then play either of them if necessary? It just seems we're kind of thin there. Hopefully neither of them need to see the field this year, but you never know.

[leeey]

I guess I didn't really notice this until reading the enquirer article on this class, but we only have 3 scholarship QBs on the roster for next year. What are everyone's thoughts on this? I guess we could redshirt both of the freshman QB's and then play either of them if necessary? It just seems we're kind of thin there. Hopefully neither of them need to see the field this year, but you never know.

Coach Butch seems pretty satisfied with the depth. At least that's what i read into it. He'll probably r/s both Kater and LeGaux for s&c purposes. That said i think Kelce stays at TE since Collaros and Kay are both running QBs and Anderson is a capable runner.

[DMoney1080]

Overall, watching some of the highlights and watching how the recruiting process has unfolded over the past two months, you have to be proud of CJ and his staff. They have done a great job of keeping some of these kids there were "committed" during the Kelly era and then finding players to fill holes when others decomitted. It wasn't a superb class according to the media, but when have we ever had a superb class according to the media.

I agree with everyone else about the RB position - we could be in trouble with only 3 rb's. Hopefully, CJ and company can find either a juco, Bellamy, or someone, or we are looking at depth issues next year. I'm glad that CJ got two QB's for this class. Having 5 with 2 hopefully Kater and Munchie redshirting would be great to build depth for the program. Overall, CJ has impressed me more with the amount of decommits and been able to put this new class together, which i think is just as strong.

Give it a couple more years before we get the 4/5 star recruits locally. As much as it pains me to see OSU, ND and others get the big recruits we are making in-roads into the local talent pool in this area. Remember the past few years success has been attributed to "developing" mostly 2 star recruits into their true potential. I hope in the next few years, we can look back and see how CJ has developed these guys into their true potential and more BE championships. Pitt and WVA always out recruit us according to Scout and Rivals, but somehow they fail at developing that talent to the next level. As long as CJ and his staff continue where BK and MD left off in terms of development, I'm ok with getting the right players for our system.

[leeey]

So the RB situation is such (this from last season's roster) :

22 John Goebel RB 6-1 225 Jr. MILFORD, MI
46 Scott Johnson RB 5-10 205 So. MIDDLETOWN, OH
23 Isaiah Pead RB 5-11 185 So. COLUMBUS, OH
7 Darrin Williams RB 5-7 175 Fr. DETROIT, MI
31 Quentin Hines RB 6-1 201 Fr. DETROIT, MI
21 George Winn RB 5-10 194 So. SOUTHFIELD, MI

The first 4 names are known quantities more or less. Quentin Hines and George Winn are unknowns for the most part. if Coach Butch has to wait till next season to close on a RB prospect than so be it. We've won back to back B.East championships with this group already. No reason to think we can't 3 peat.

[#41]

When evaluating this class and considering "what-ifs", I hope that everyone keeps in mind that this is the highest-rated class in University of Cincinnati football history.

A fair point.

But, I think most fans are looking for the university to take the proverbial next step. The program has shown that it can win in the Big East and that it can win consistently -- but in order to move to the next level nationally, they're going to need to get better athletes in.

[bobestes]

A fair point.

But, I think most fans are looking for the university to take the proverbial next step. The program has shown that it can win in the Big East and that it can win consistently -- but in order to move to the next level nationally, they're going to need to get better athletes in.

I'd argue that this IS the next step. It's better than the class before it, which was better than the class two years ago, and I think that's all we can hope for.

Remember, we went to two BCS bowls with a bunch of 1-2 star recruits. It's a little presumptuous on my part to expect lightening to strike twice, but as the talent level rises, it should get easier to do (win).

I think we've got to be in it for the long haul. This program isn't going to reach sustainable levels of excellence until it builds a big donor base, and that's just going to take time.

[leeey]

I'd argue that this IS the next step. It's better than the class before it, which was better than the class two years ago, and I think that's all we can hope for.

Remember, we went to two BCS bowls with a bunch of 1-2 star recruits. It's a little presumptuous on my part to expect lightening to strike twice, but as the talent level rises, it should get easier to do (win).

I think we've got to be in it for the long haul. This program isn't going to reach sustainable levels of excellence until it builds a big donor base, and that's just going to take time.

if this is the next step than it's a baby step. While the class is better than the one's previously put together for UC football, there was no real "Groundbreaking" recruit that articulated this as a "next step" class (a guy like Matt James for instance). While the Bearcats have outperformed their "star ranking" (which is probably a horrible baseline as a sole measure); if you think about our profile (ergo, back to back BCS conference champ), we should be drawing a significantly higher caliber of recruit. i'm not trying to focus on the negative. i like our class, and i commend Coach Butch and Co. for putting together/keeping together the 2010 class.

That said, now the hard work begins. Keep in mind that winning 10 games could actually be a step back this season. All in all, i think three peating as conference champ and winning a bcs bowl is the next step now. Should Coach Butch be able to accomplish that, than the next step in recruiting will arrive soon thereafter.

[bearcatd]

Next year's class will be more telling of this staff's recruiting abilities...and the 2012 class more so. I think they did a good job, being that they were recruiting to the MAC until early December. Creating relationships with players and HS coaches over the next couple of months will be important. I've said before - Butch seems like a good combo of BK and Dantonio. I think High Schoolers will respond well to him. I'm also hoping, being that we got some players from the south that this shows a recruiting trend for this staff - our home is 100 miles around Cincy but we can also pull in the size and speed of the south when needed.

[bobestes]

if this is the next step than it's a baby step. While the class is better than the one's previously put together for UC football, there was no real "Groundbreaking" recruit that articulated this as a "next step" class (a guy like Matt James for instance). While the Bearcats have outperformed their "star ranking" (which is probably a horrible baseline as a sole measure); if you think about our profile (ergo, back to back BCS conference champ), we should be drawing a significantly higher caliber of recruit. i'm not trying to focus on the negative. i like our class, and i commend Coach Butch and Co. for putting together/keeping together the 2010 class.

That said, now the hard work begins. Keep in mind that winning 10 games could actually be a step back this season. All in all, i think three peating as conference champ and winning a bcs bowl is the next step now. Should Coach Butch be able to accomplish that, than the next step in recruiting will arrive soon thereafter.

I'd argue that winning ten games would be falling back to the median win total, and if our program is going to average 10 wins a season, it's in pretty good place.

12-1 is just a ridiculous magical season, no two ways about it.

[leeey]

I'd argue that winning ten games would be falling back to the median win total, and if our program is going to average 10 wins a season, it's in pretty good place.

12-1 is just a ridiculous magical season, no two ways about it.

3 straight double digit win seasons, 2 straight finishes in the BCS top 25, back to back B.East chips and BCS bowl appearances, say what you want about BK but he set the bar pretty high. Maintaining the success would equal another B.East chip and BCS appearance, exceeding it would mean winning the BCS bowl or an NC.

That said, he understands the circumstances. in an interview with Josh K. he said that the bar is set high and he wants high expectations of him, his staff and his program. i don't count progress necessarily in terms of Ws and Ls but rather in championships; and right now, 3 peating as B.East champs is neither improbable nor unlikely.

[bearcatbret]

If you look at each new Bearcat individually you will see that they are highly rated in the state as in the top # in the state and/or top # by position. Also many are rated highly nationally by position.

I think that the star factor may not be representative because many of these guys committed to UC last summer so the services who evaluate them quite looking at them and did not update their status after this past football season. But the ranking by position has been updated.

[Oldtimer_UC_fan]

3 straight double digit win seasons, 2 straight finishes in the BCS top 25, back to back B.East chips and BCS bowl appearances, say what you want about BK but he set the bar pretty high. Maintaining the success would equal another B.East chip and BCS appearance, exceeding it would mean winning the BCS bowl or an NC.

That said, he understands the circumstances. in an interview with Josh K. he said that the bar is set high and he wants high expectations of him, his staff and his program. i don't count progress necessarily in terms of Ws and Ls but rather in championships; and right now, 3 peating as B.East champs is neither improbable nor unlikely.

Certainly, repeating is not improbable. I believe UC will be as good as their defense. If they are to repeat, it has to be better than this past season's. I'm not worried about the offense.....plenty of weapons. The "D" really needs to step up. As much as I want to believe, I don't really see us beating Oklahoma.

[Major ----de Coverley]

Certainly, repeating is not improbable. I believe UC will be as good as their defense. If they are to repeat, it has to be better than this past season's. I'm not worried about the offense.....plenty of weapons. The "D" really needs to step up. As much as I want to believe, I don't really see us beating Oklahoma.

I unfortunately agree, beating Oklahoma will be very, very difficult yet not impossible. I wish Paul Brown stadium still had the old grass and sand field as they had for the UC/O$U game in 2003. I remember the bloated O$U offensive linemen were barely able to wobble off the field because they sank in the sand up to their ankles.

[daap_bearcat97]

Anyone hearing things about Latwan Anderson? I heard that he was cancelling his USC visit? Is this correct or just rumored? If so what are our chances of signing him? I know he was pretty locked in to WVU, but things change as we all know very well. Fingers crossed...would be a huge pick-up late in the game. I am hoping for this and a big time RB for this class, then maybe then enquirer and everyone else will give this university, staff and team the respect it deserves after being BEast chmaps back to back and looking for the triple!

Go Cats.

[leeey]

Well, the good thing is that the OK game is an OOC game. On top of that, it seems like they are losing LOTS of talent. Granted, they are a program that reloads, but they'll need time to gel and we get them pretty early.

i agree that we'll only be as good as our D. Springball should answer some of the questions. Higher Ground can't come soon enough. in reality we can stand to take 2 losses as long as OK is one of them and in truth i really feel the B.East will be down overall. Rutgers and Pitt will probably be the strongest competition, but i believe the rest of the league all have several challenges going forward. USF and UL are going through regime changes, Cuse is in year two of a regime change, UConn loses massive amounts of talent i believe, WVU will be breaking in a new inexperienced starter at QB leaving Rutgers and Pitt as the main line of competition. Rutgers is still young and losing some significant talent, Pitt will be breaking in a new starter at QB and losing some key weapons.

Make no mistake, we'll have our challenges as well, but as Coach Butch has said repeatedly, these guys only know how to win. i feel better by a head and shoulders about this regime change than i did about the one from Dantonio to BK, honestly.

[dbernie41]

I think the odds of us getting Latwan are about 1% BUT if that 1% were to happen I would be THRILLED. Right now I just want to see a LOI from Bellamy because that would fill a big need and I think our shot with him is MUCH more realistic.

[dbernie41]

Lucien Kidd committed yesterday and is going to walk on at UC next year.
http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/recruiting/player-Lucien-Kidd-101586

[JohnFrancis]

L. Kidd seems like a good, smart football player. I like this student-athlete and hope he has a great experience at UC - and eventually earns a full athletic scholarship. He probably has an academic scholly or some time of financial aid package already (I would think).