Let's talk commitment

By: By BRIAN WRIGHT For the Stafford County Sun | Stafford County Sun
Published: January 14, 2010

With Alabama’s win over Texas last Thursday in the BCS National Championship, college football goes into hibernation for about an eight-month period. The previous four months could be deemed a success for only one local team — Virginia Tech. The Hokies won the Chick-fil-a Bowl in convincing fashion over Tennessee.

Maryland and Virginia didn’t accumulate good enough records to earn a bowl game trip. The accomplishments for next year — and beyond — could be enhanced or diminished by what happens in the near future. Recruiting has gained significance, and Signing Day for high school seniors comes in early February. Below is a list of the three local Division I teams and key players that have made verbal commitments to go to those schools.

Virginia Tech — The Hokies return a majority of their starters, including quarterback Tyrod Taylor, young star running back Ryan Williams (from Manassas) and the entire receiving corps. The defense loses more, but coordinator Bud Foster’s unit always has a history of being able to rebuild without much drop-off. Defensive newcomers, and possible impact players, include end Zach McCray from Lynchburg, Nick Acree from Fork Union Military Academy and Robinson High School’s Brian Laiti. Tech is set to land several offensive line standouts – including Hargrave Military Academy’s Laurence Gibson and Matt Arkema out of Midlothian.

Maryland — At least future Terrapins reside locally. Ralph Friedgen is set to take in four-star talent David Mackall, a defensive end from Fork Union Military Academy. Javarie Johnson will take his outside linebacker talents from Dunbar High School in Washington D.C., while Nathanial Clarke is 6-foot-4, 282-pound offensive lineman from the nation’s capital. The Terps will have options when it comes to Jeremiah Wilson, from Winchester. Listed as an “Athlete” on Rivals.com. Wilson committed on Feb. 22 of last year. In 2009, he rushed for 1,500 yards and 20 touchdowns with Handley High as well as four interceptions.

Virginia — New head coach Mike London will welcome in a potential class of at least 13 commitments. Fork Union product Morgan Moses is a 6-foot-7, 347-pound offensive tackle and he’ll be joined by teammate and fellow lineman Cody Wallace. Bayside High School inside linebacker Henry Coley moves northwest from Virginia Beach to Charlottesville. Coley chose the Cavaliers over offers from Liberty, Louisville, Temple, Navy and Richmond.