AUC Recruiting Chat (8/17/20 Chat Added)

[Rednilla 5,383]

9 minutes ago, ellitor said:

@Rednilla Was originally a Guard but talk all offseason has been he's likely the best OL on roster period & most are seeing him as a RT this season. I've posted this info a number of times in various threads the past few months.

I apologize for not seeing that any sooner, but thank you for letting me know I wasn't going crazy in thinking him to be a guard.

[Sizzle 3,909]

3 hours ago, AuburnNTexas said:

I like Gooch being the sleeper as OT is as all have stated is our biggest need. Which this class seems to be addressing. We really need a couple of the JC OT's to step up this year so all the incoming OT's have a chance to learn and improve for a year before being thrown into the fire.

The JC OT’s might contribute, but probably not in the starting lineup 

[Rednilla 5,383]

6 minutes ago, Sizzle said:

The JC OT’s might contribute, but probably not in the starting lineup 

So you think Hamm and Trox are going to be the starters?

[bigbird 60,449]

13 minutes ago, Sizzle said:

The JC OT’s might contribute, but probably not in the starting lineup 

I expect one to be our starting LT. I don't see another that will be able to play there. With his athleticism, Jackson might be able to transition there but that's a big unknown.

[Sizzle 3,909]

2 hours ago, Rednilla said:

So you think Hamm and Trox are going to be the starters?

Yep unless somebody really shows out in camp and takes a position 

2 hours ago, bigbird said:

I expect one to be our starting LT. I don't see another that will be able to play there. With his athleticism, Jackson might be able to transition there but that's a big unknown.

Well it’ll have to be Coffey imo. I doubt it’ll be Zierer in year 1. Do you really want a juco tackle coming off an ACL injury starting right away? I know Trox has a bad injury history too but at least he’s been with the program for a few years 

[TheCHF 9]

Are we recruiting Tim Keenan at all? I tried searching his name and didn’t see anything. Apologies if it’s been posted somewhere and I missed it. 

[McLoofus 35,182]

24 minutes ago, TheCHF said:

Are we recruiting Tim Keenan at all? I tried searching his name and didn’t see anything. Apologies if it’s been posted somewhere and I missed it. 

According to 247 we are recruiting him at least somewhat, but to what extent I'm not sure.

https://247sports.com/Player/Tim-Keenan-46050260/

[ellitor 33,077]

44 minutes ago, TheCHF said:

Are we recruiting Tim Keenan at all? I tried searching his name and didn’t see anything. Apologies if it’s been posted somewhere and I missed it. 

@TheCHF No. He's a 0 Tech DT best suited for a 3 man front D scheme. We run a 4 man front scheme.

[bigbird 60,449]

41 minutes ago, ellitor said:

@TheCHF No. He's a 0 Tech DT best suited for a 3 man front D scheme. We run a 4 man front scheme.

I wish we would play our buck flexed a little more often

[ellitor 33,077]

6 minutes ago, bigbird said:

play our buck flexed a little more often

TWSS

[bigbird 60,449]

Just now, ellitor said:

TWSS

[McLoofus 35,182]

3 minutes ago, bigbird said:

I wish we would play our buck flexed a little more often

I told Mrs. Loof that last night. Anyone know a good divorce attorney? Asking for... my wife.

(Does flexed mean he plays like more of an OLB in a 3-4?)

Edit: @ellitor beat me to it! Damn, bro, 2020 has not damaged your sense of humor at all!

[bigbird 60,449]

Just now, McLoofus said:

Does flexed mean he plays like more of an OLB in a 3-4?

Yes.

Technically we are a 3-4, but attach(hand in the dirt) the buck.  There are a few times when we'll run a zone blitz and drop the buck I to coverage. Coe made a few plays as a freshman coming up from his drop.

[ellitor 33,077]

2 minutes ago, bigbird said:

Ronaldo sucks! I bet @McLoofus is surprised I know who that is.

[ellitor 33,077]

4 minutes ago, McLoofus said:

Damn, bro, 2020 has not damaged your sense of humor at all!

It's a weird year in many ways including me having a sense of humor.

[McLoofus 35,182]

3 minutes ago, ellitor said:

Ronaldo sucks! I bet @McLoofus is surprised I know who that is.

I don't know if I'm surprised you know who he is, but I love that you think he sucks! Screw that guy!

[AuburnTiger4Life 2,225]

3 hours ago, McLoofus said:

I don't know if I'm surprised you know who he is, but I love that you think he sucks! Screw that guy!

This guy doesn’t though 😉

[McLoofus 35,182]

16 minutes ago, AuburnTiger4Life said:

This guy doesn’t though 😉

LET'S TALK ABOUT IT! LET'S FREAKING TALK ABOUT IT!!!!! 

[ellitor 33,077]

 

Quote

 

Auburn football recruiting chat recap 7/24/20

By Keith Niebuhr 12 hours ago

Q: Keith, who is the next to commit to AU?

A: Well, since 4-star DE/LB Jeremiah Williams of Birmingham (Ala.) MIGHT -- yes MIGHT -- commit in the next couple of weeks, all eyes have to be on him. The chatter about Florida has to be concerning to the Tigers. And yes, there is some confidence coming from Gainesville. Everything we continue to hear is that this one is tight. REALLY tight. Still probably could go either way. That's hard to believe for an in-state kid, but Williams apparently loves the plan Florida has for him. He told 247Sports' Blake Alderman this a few days ago: "I would rush the passer, I would play in the box, I would drop back into coverage and cover the slot. They see me moving around back there and not just being a edge rusher, but I can do that too in some plays."

Auburn has liked Williams at the buck but certainly would use him in different spots, too, if that's what he wants.

For the Tigers, the best hope is that their strong relationships with Williams will be the difference. He has consistently said over and over he is closer to Gus Malzahn than any coach recruting. Also, some in his family prefer the Tigers.

This would be a bitter pill to swallow should Auburn not land him.

But it sounds like the Tigers feel a little better about things now than they did a week ago.

If it's not Williams, than defensive tackle Marquis Robinson (AU leads), cornerback Kamari Lassiter (UGA, AU with a decision coming probably in August) and perhaps Baylor receiver commit Hal Presley (AU is pushing hard) would be three to watch.

Q: From what has been written, it seems the coaches are very high on Lassiter. I think I read you think the Dawgs have a slight lead. Do you think AU has a shot and is his offer even committable at Georgia?

A: Karmari Lassiter is the 3-star corner from Tuscaloosa (Ala.) American Christian. I talked to him Friday afternoon. You can find the latest update HERE: https://247sports.com/college/auburn/Article/Auburn-Tigers-football-recruiting-In-state-defensive-back-Kamari-Lassiter-relatively-close-to-having-a-decision--149493866/

In my opinion, Georgia may have a little edge as of this moment. He's from Georgia originally and I'm sure there is some pull to Athens because of that. Everything we're heard is that, yes, the Bulldogs want him in the class.

This came from Rusty Mansell of Dawgs247: "Spoke with a trusted source on Wednesday night about 2021 CB Kamari Lassiter from Alabama. That source told me that a few schools think UGA is the team a little ahead for him right now. I know from my end that UGA is recruiting him hard."

Now, does Auburn have a shot? I believe so. Multiple coaches are working on Lassiter, including Malzahn andd secondary coach Wesley McGriff. He really loves the Auburn staff and the family vibe in Auburn.

Will that be enough for the Tigers? Hard to know. Both schools have a major need at his position.

Jason Caldwell: I really, really like Lassiter. He's definitely a guy that Auburn is high on as well. The Tigers have a great shot with him IMO.

Q: You keep us so posted it's hard to think of what to ask. I know the latest on most everyones recruitment I've been following. Here's on --- would AU take Nyland Green, Kool Aid & Harvey?

A: Would Auburn take 4-star corner Nyland Green, 5-star corner/receiver Ga'Quincy McKinstry and 4-star Ahmari Harvey?

YES!!!!

Absolutely, the Tigers would take all three if they can.

Also, don't forget this about each of these three players -- all are capable of playing corner or safety. A lot of corners could move back to safety. But not many safeties can move up and play corner -- but Harvey may be one of those who can.

Auburn has a shot with all three.

With Green, it's Auburn, Georgia and Tennessee. With McKinstry, it's Auburn, Alabama and LSU. With Harvey, I'm not really sure who Auburn will have to beat out -- maybe Florida State. Yeah, I'll go with FSU.

Q: Three questions ....

1. I know you said you see Kool-Aid being more of a safety. Is the staff recruiting him as a safety or CB or both?

2. Can you give an update on Dylan Brooks recruitment?

3. What's this I'm hearing that we have 1-2 silent commits?

A:

1. The staff is recruiting 5-star Ga'Quincy McKinstry as a corner and receiver. Any thoughts about him at safety are mine and mine alone.

2. Nothing new on Brooks, the 4-star Vols defensive end commit. Many think if anything happens, it would be later in the cycle.

3. We haven't ever reported anything about silents. If insiders said it, you'll have to ask them what they know. If we don't report it, then we don't have much.

Q: Outside of Ahmari Harvey, who are the coaches looking at at S?

A: Auburn already has one safety committed with Phillip O'Brien Jr. of Deerfield Beach (Fla.). He's really good. Forget about his ranking, the Tigers love him. They really don't have to take a second safety. One reason for that is because if you get in a jam, you can always move a corner back there. McKinstry and Green, two big Auburn targets, both are capable of playing safety if needed.

But ...

The Tigers still like Terrion Arnold of Florida lot. Many think he's leaning Alabama. Vols commit De'Shawn Rucker, also of Florida, is someone else to watch.

Coincidentally, Harvey, Arnold and Rucker are all in Tallahassee.

Finally, there's Jah'von Grigsby of Louisiana. The Crystal Ball favors Michigan State but you get the feeling Auburn would have a shot if it pushes.

Q: Who is Auburn looking at linebacker besides Smael Mondon and Xavian Sorey? Is landing McKinstry, Harvey, Green, and Lassiter all together realistic? It would be something else if that did happen.

A: 1. If Auburn strikes out on 5-star Smael Mondon (Tigers might get him) and 5-star Xavian Sorey, then I think you'd have to watch guys like Boston College commit Trevin Wallace of Georgia and Arkansas commit Raheim Sanders of Florida. Per one of our board insiders (Dukes), Auburn also has interest in Louisville commit Jackson Hamilton. Still recruiting Alabama commit Deontae Lawson, but that feels like a longshot.

Wallace's stock is really rising.

Oklahoma offered him this week and I've since learned the Sooners are extremely high on him and would take him right now.

He actually had an uncle play there, Watch out for Oklahoma there. And if Auburn starts to push, you could have a really good battle.

But again, right now I really think Auburn has a good shot with Mondon. With Sorey, I'm not feeling Auburn there at this time.

2. Possible, but will not be easy!

Q: Is Kason Boston someone we push harder for if we whiff on a few guys or is he an absolute take if we offer him in the near future? Is the staff just waiting to see how he does senior year or are they close to offering him?

A: For those wondering, Kason Boston is an unranked defensive end at Birmingham (Ala.) Jackson-Olin. I honestly haven't heard his name much. My hunch is the Tigers are in evaluation mode there.

Not having spring practice -- or summer camps -- did him no favors. Every year, that's when sleepers emerge from the crowd and become big targets.

This year, we got none of that. That means there are some hidden gems out there ... we all know it. True hidden gems who will be big-time college players.

Auburn has one defensive lineman committed and will probably try to add three or four more. Miss a few and we'll see what happens.

Jason Caldwell: I believe he's going to be a guy that big schools want to see play this season because he looks so different than he did as a junior. If Auburn offered they would have a great shot IMO.

Q: Are there any recruits out there that Auburn is evaluating that has a DJ Williams recruitment feel to it, where the kid blows up skill and rankings wise before the signing period?

A: I haven't heard of many to be honest. There may be some, but I haven't heard many names. With no spring practice or summer camps, every school in the country has essentially poured through the same highlights from 2019.

They're all doing the same thing. And basically recruiting the same guys.

That's a question you'll have to ask late fall.

Auburn didn't even know about Williams until very late in the cycle. And that was with a spring practice that year.

Obviously, a guy we just mentioned potentially could be one of those guys -- defensive end Kason Boston of Birmingham.

Not sure people realize how much spring practice changed the dynamic of this cycle. That's usually the time of year when boards shift A LOT - and when many new names emerge.

Now, guys that would have shot up the recruiting boards are still hidden somewhat. So this fall, there could be numerous new faces emerge.

Q: July is closing fast. Will we turn to Aug. before we land our next public commitment?

A: Since no big targets have announced specific commitment dates in July, maybe.

Q: Losing out on Wiliiams would seem to be a real gut punch, given the time and energy invested in recruiting him and being an in-state guy. IF Auburn misses, where do they go then to fill that spot?

A: Well, for starters, Auburn still is working on 4-star Vols commit Dylan Brooks. The two sides continue to communicate so he would be someone to watch.

Also, Auburn is far and ahead the team to beat -- if it pushes -- with junior college player Jimmori Robinson of Monroe College (N.Y.). He's not a fall-back plan, but on the defensive line the Tigers typically like to wait until later in the cycle before adding someone form the junior colleges. He's listed at 6-feet-6, 248 pounds.

Meanwhile, Auburn continues to heavily recruit LSU commit Keanu Koht of Florida.

Jabril McNeill of North Carolina could be another to watch. Right now, the Crystal Ball favors NC State.

Q: What about cornerback Nyland Green? The Georgia board seems pretty confident right now regarding his recruitment.

A: Well, like we reported recently, Clemson is fading and Georgia and Tennessee now are Auburn's biggest competition. I talked to someone the other day who really likes Georgia's chances, but just a couple weeks ago I was told the Bulldogs really hadn't recruited him as consistently as some other schools. Having missed on some corners, Georgia no doubt has ramped things up. It had to. And he likes that program a lot.

But Auburn is right there, very much in contention. The chance for early playing time is appealing. He's close with numerous members of the Tigers staff. One of his vey best friends already is on the team.

Yeah, the Tigers have a solid shot here.

Tennessee has emerged as a darkhorse and can't be counted out either.

Q: Who was the first Auburn recruit you ever interviewed when you got into this business? This is a question for Jason and Keith.

A: Robert Baker ... He was a special high school player.

Jason Caldwell: Wow. I'll have to think way back on this one. I believe Travaris Robinson was one of the first guys I remember talking with. DeMarco McNeil and Deandre Green were a couple more. Also Michael Owens, a RB from Deshler.

Q: Would we take both Shambre Jackson and Marquis Robinson or is it one or the other?

A: Different positions. Jackson probably is a strong-side end. Robinson is a tackle. Jackson told 247Sports this week Alabama and FSU were recruiting him the hardest.

I like Auburn's chances with Robinson.

Would Auburn take both? If spots were open, I don't see why not. I know they're pushing for Robinson. Not sure with Jackson. Don't know right now.

Q: Time seems to stand still in this COVID fog. Feels like a year since AU received our last commitment. Heck, feels like 9 months since we got a crystal ball. If Williams signs up that would be a huge boost, but every day it sounds like things are getting tighter with UF. Starting to feel like the Tri-Lams, Keith. What’s you best pep talk for your AUC brethren? Make it up if you have to!

A: Be patient. That's all I can ever say ... but history has proven that in time Gus Malzahn and the Tigers should have a pretty good class.

His worst finish is No. 12.

 

 

[ellitor 33,077]

 

Quote

 

Auburn football recruiting chat recap 8/1/20

By Keith Niebuhr 14 hours ago

Q: Do u think Nyland and Kamari could be a potential one auburn one to uga type deal?

A: RE -- 4-star corner Nyland Green and 3-star corner Kamari Lassiter ...

It's possible one could pick Auburn and the other Georgia, sure. But I haven't heard anything to suggest they couldn't land at the same school, be it Auburn or Georiga. Auburn could take up to three. The Dawgs also have a need at that position.

Sounds like it could be pretty tight for both of these guys.

Q: Can you provide any update on the Billy Bowman offer? Do we have a shot at flipping?

A: For those who may not know ... Bowman is a 4-star Texas receiver commit.

Nothing new there that I've heard but we're still digging ... The Longhorns apparently feel good about keeping him in the class. Part of me wonders if Auburn offered him to keep Texas off Hal Presley, the Baylor commit the Tigers like.

Q: If 5-star linebacker Smael Mondon were to commit elsewhere, who would Auburn most likely target first?

A: For one thing, Xavian Sorey of Florida is out there. If Mondon picks Georgia, maybe that gives Auburn a better shot with him. Probably would help Florida, too.

After that, possibly watch Trevin Wallace of Wayne County (Ga.) or Raheim Sanders of Rockledge (Fla.). The other option would be to circle back to some big targets that committed to other schools earlier in the cycle. Beat the bushes there and see what comes of it.

Wallace is a Boston College commit; Sanders is committed to Arkansas.

Watch out for Oklahoma with Wallace.

Q: Are we still looking to add a junior college corner or is it the same situation with the Juco DE were we’ll just wait to see who we can get first?

A: There seems to be a fairly decent chance of that .... but might not add (if they do this) until later in the cycle.

I'm hearing this is the player the Tigers really like -- so keep an eye on him.

Q: Auburn actually have a shot with 5-star offensive tackle Amarius Mims?

A: I'm skeptical myself, but supposedly the teams recruiting 5-star offensive tackle Amarius Mims think he is more open to other programs than many think. My gut says Georgia will be tough to beat. But Auburn, Alabama and Tennessee all continue to recruit him really hard. Auburn's biggest selling point probably is the potential for early playing time. He has visited Auburn twice this year and he communicates daily with the staff. We'll see -- but again, I feel like I've seen this movie before.

Q: There was a linebacker from Tennessee named Prince -- not sure about his last name -- there was an article about him. Do you know where we stand with him. I only ask because I remember Jason (Caldwell) saying his film is as good as anyone he has seen.

A: Prince Kollie.

Even though Auburn's offer really put him on the map, he hasn't shown the Tigers a lot of love -- and because of that the Tigers recruited others a lot harder. I'm hearing Georgia and LSU could be a couple teams to watch with him.

Q: Keith or Jason, who do you think is more likely to get an offer first, Rod Orr or Rayvon Crum? I believe we are likely to take 6 offensive linemen this cycle and if we do decide to take that many do you see us landing one of Savion Byrd/Diego Pounds or do you think it’s more likely that we would end up with Crum and Orr or another sleeper like Mason Bundy?

A: Probably Rod Orr of Gadsden City, Ala, would get the offer first between him and Crum. It's no sure thing Auburn will offer either one, but if it does I think the first one probably goes to Orr over Crum, who plays at Pinson Valley (Ala.). As always, the Tigers also are evaluating other guys. They certainly are working Pounds pretty good, too. They'd take him right now I think. I haven't heard much about Bundy, other than that he's getting evaluated. With four already on the board, Auburn is being patient with these guys as it shoots for some big fish.

Q: There was a wide receiver from Georgia that Auburn was looking at as a linebacker, similar to Karlos Dansby. Is there still any interest there?

A: My guess is, you mean Trevin Wallace of Wayne County. The Boston College commit with 3-stars next to his name. Not many people got excited when Auburn offered. Well, now the Sooners have offered and I think they have a shot here.

Auburn has a chance, too ... if it pushes.

It might be waiting to see what 5-star Smael Mondon does.

Q: Which target do you think Auburn is the most likely to get a commitment from?

A: My best guess: Defensive tackle Marquis Robinson. Thinking that could come in August. Maybe.

Q: Why haven't you put a CB in for Scoobie (4-star outside backer/buck Jeremiah Williams? You should.

A: Because it continues to be close.

Q: Keith, why did you put Kamari Lassiter in the class over Nyland Green? Would we take both if given the chance?

A: There seems to be some cautious optimism for Lassier at Auburn. They've been with him for awhile and the feeling is his family may actually prefer the Tigers. So while the pull from Georgia is strong, we do think Auburn has a chance. Plus, he's expected to announce in August. Green may wait longer. And Georgia also is heavily involved with him right now. I've heard enough chatter to think Auburn may have a better chance with Lassiter. But just one week ago, I was hearing the opposite.

Things can change in a Sylacauga minute.

Q: If we miss out on some high school OLs, are there any Juco OL that Auburn is looking at and evaluating that you might be able to tell us about?

A:Have not heard about any yet. But that's not a huge surprise ... No spring football would make that hard. A lot of times with Juco guys you don't even typically hear about them until the fall -- and that probably will be even more true this year. Last year, the Tigers got in on some guys earlier in the year because former offensive coordinator Kenny Dillingham had some connections in California -- and because Auburn was desperate and needed guys in the boat early.

The two to three Juco targets we know about right now all play other positions -- and Auburn had info on them from last season.

It's also possible that after taking 2 junior college OLs in 2020, Auburn may want to focus solely on high school targets in 2021. I'll ask around.

Q: Is there a particular recruiting cycle in recent history that you’ve enjoyed covering the most?

On a similar note, do you enjoy it when a cycle is more of a rollercoaster and filled with drama, or do you prefer it to be more straight forward?

A: -Honestly, not really. It's a love-hate relationship I have with the job. I put so much pressure on myself to not let you all down that I'm constantly a nervous wreck. So by the end of the cycle each year I usually have some animosity over the stress I went thru. My Apple watch is constantly telling me to breathe more. But it can be a rush to get AUC subs intel before anyone else. I like that part best -- and getting to know some of the families.

-The less stress the better to be honest. But at the end of the day, they all have some drama -- it's not that big of a deal. The hard part sometimes is just trying to find you all intel. Sometimes it's easy. Sometimes it can be really hard. When you come up empty, you really feel like you've let everyone down.

Q: Haven’t heard anything recently regarding Markevious Brown out of Florida. Is he still an option on the cornerback board?

A: Last I heard, Auburn may be recruiting some other guys a little bit harder. But the Tigers did make his top 5 -- with Arkansas, Miami, Ole Miss and Virginia Tech.

Q: I assume we would take all if given the chance but would we have room for defensive backs Nyland Green, Kamari Lassiter, Kool-Aid (Ga'Quincy McKinstry) and Ahmari Harvey?

A: There would be room for all, I believe.

Q: What is the latest with LJ Johnson or a second running back in this class?

A: He would be one of the couple main targets. Not a lot new here -- Texas A&M is the favorite with LSU there and then probably Auburn. Auburn, to my knowledge, has continued to communicate every week with him via Zoom calls and such. Auburn wants to use him as a complete back, I'm told. That means rushing the ball and catching passes.

He's not expected to commit anytime soon.

Q: Other than virtual visits, what other recruiting tactics is AU using? Any tactics you’ve heard other universities are using?

A: No new tactics that I've heard of. Only so much you can.
Organization is the big key for everyone right now--and having a clear picture to present as to how you would use a recruit at your school. On the virtual visits, it's important to show what the environment is like that you present to people over the phone. For Auburn, you have to show people what the compus looks like and also how people are there -- because Auburn sells the whole family vibe thing.

When I have more specifics, I will share.

Q: What target are you closest to putting a Crystal Ball in for? Need some optimism in my life.

A: Have certainly given it some thought with Jeremiah Williams and Ga'Quincy McKinstry. Hal Presley, too.

But feel like I need more intel that is postive for Auburn to do so. They all seem close to me.

Q: Does Auburn prefer Roc Taylor or Hal Presley more at receiver? Would they take both if able?

A: Different types of receivers so it might be an either/or type of deal. HP is a speed guy. Taylor a bruiser out there.

I think Auburn absolutely would consider taking both.

Q: I have a question about strong-side defensive end position. There is not much going on there. Is that because it is not a position of need or do they feel like Jonathan Jefferson is flippable from Georgia. The only other target appears to be Shambre Jackson.

A: Jefferson seems like a longshot to me. Jackson says Alabama and FSU are recruiting him hardest at the moment.

With Dylan Brooks now at 245-250 pounds, he might be an option there possibly. Also, the junior college kid Auburn likes -- Jimmori Robinson of Monroe College -- he's 6-feet-6 and 248 pounds. So maybe he could play there.

Auburn also just brought in Zykeivous Walker. He's a potential monster.

Additionally, Auburn is now talking to former Georgia commit Marlin Dean, too. He could maybe play the strong-side. Wouldn't be a shock if he ended up back at Georgia -- but the Tigers are communicating with him daily.

Q: I see Auburn just got a crystal ball for 4-star safety Ahmari Harvey, are you close to putting one in too? Why or why not?

A: Not yet. Don't have enough info for that. Been writing for awhile that Auburn was trending up ... but FSU being the hometown team and all makes it interesting. AU thinks he may want to leave home -- but again, I feel like I need to hear more. That said, Auburn has done a really good job with this recruitment. Four weeks ago, Harvey told me Auburn was recruiting him harder than anyone. Also, I have him in my mock class.

Q: Any wild stories you can now share about last class’ commitments?

A: Kind of of a funny one, I guess.

After I went to Warner Robins to shoot Wesley Steiner's commit video, I wrote he was down to AU and Stanford. Another reporter (not saying who but not a 247 LSU guy) said he was giving me a heads up that Steiner was done to LSU.

They had no idea what I knew.

Turns out, Steiner's mom preferred Baton Rouge. But Wesley and grandma were all Auburn.

That reporter was trying to help me, so I'm not making fun of them at all. In fact, I think it's pretty cool they called. Sources can be all over the map.

Q: Three part question:

1) Who do you think Auburn is more likely to get at CB at this point in time, Green or McKinstry?

2) Do you think LSU may pose a bigger threat to AU with McKinstry than Bama?

3) What Olympic event would you have most liked to win the gold in?

Thanks as always for your insight. The AU community really values your work!

A: 

1. McKinstry I guess. I go back and forth.

2. Getting mixed answers on that one. Some think LSU. But at the end of the day, to me it's Alabama.

3. 100 meters I guess. But I'm not really an Olympics person.

Q: 1. If you had to put a percentage as of where cornerback Nyland Green goes as of today what would Auburn’s percentage be compared to Georgia’s?

2. How many’s booms are you expecting in August?

A: 1. Percentages are really hard. This stuff changes a lot -- remember when you were a teenager?

I'll say 50-50 though. Really could probably go either way. But some at AU like where the Tigers have sat for awhile. Georgia is pushing really hard now, though. To me that has evened it out. Two weeks ago, I would have said 60-40 Auburn. So ask me again in a week and the answer could change again.

2. I would think maybe two or three. Fans aren't the only impatient ones here. You know the staff is dying for some, too.

Q: Who would be a second option at running back other than Johnson?

A: Well, not that long ago, (board insider) Dukes wrote that Auburn was pursuing Clemson commit Phil Mafah. I think he might tough to flip, though. Still, could be someone to watch.

Don't have to take a second back, really.

Q: In your opinion, do you see the dead period extended throughout the end of 2020?

If there are no visits, do you think the NCAA will postpone the early signing period?

Lastly, do you think the NCAA will grant a waiver if a player signs with a team but wasn’t able to visit prior and decides to transfer?

A: -I hate to say it, but I'm not overly optimistic. All these schools are just so freaked out about grandma or Uncle Bob catching this thing on a visit. But maybe they can figure something out. I hope so -- for the kids' sakes.

-You have to think the Early Signing Period is in jeopardy -- especially with the SEC CG now on Dec. 19.

-Maybe. But the one-free transfer deal probably is gonna before long anway.

Q: Keith, I know this is going to be hard for you to answer probably considering people are losing their minds with where we are in recruiting for this year but I was wondering if you could possibly give three top recruits we look really good for in '22. Now, I know there are lots of variables so not trying to hold your feet to the fire on it, I was just wondering. Personally I believe we end up fine for this year -- just got to let it all play out.

A: -Well, I definitely think AU has a real shot with in-state RBs Emmanuel Henderson and Quinshon Judkins. Could certainly see AU landing one of these guys.

-At QB, Auburn is fighting hard for 5-star Quinn Ewers and 4-star Ty Simpson. If AU stepped on the gas, it also would have legit chances with MJ Morris and Tanner Bailey. Should be fine at that position.

-OT Kelvin Banks from Texas is someone to track for sure. Gotta get him on campus. Top-100 type of guy.

We'll know a LOT more once visits return.

Q: People always talk about this but in your opinion, how much of an impact does athletic apparel have on recruits? Do you think if AU would sign with Jordan or Nike they’d have a better chance with some recruits?

A: It matters. But it's just one piece -- and maybe not a huge piece -- of the puzzle.

But kids want to be outfitted in what they consider to be cool and/or fashionable gear.

I can't predict what Auburn would do .... because it's largely about who will give you the most money.

I don't know how much having another brand would help. But yes, there are some who think little things like that add up.

 

 

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Auburn football recruiting chat recap 8/17/20

By Keith Niebuhr 19 hours ago

Q: Keith -- Do you think the next commits could be Ahmari Harvey, Kool-Aid (Ga'Quincy McKinstry), and???

A: With no other commitment dates set besides 4-star safety Ahmari Harvey (this coming Friday at 1 p.m. ET), it's hard to know. Do I think the Tigers land Harvey? Yes, and I have for awhile.
I had a long talk with Harvey the last week of June and at that point it became clear the Tigers were trending up. The main reason for that? Communication. He said then and has since repeated it that Auburn was/is recruiting him hardest.
Meantime, Florida State has put more energy into another local safety (Harvey is from Tallahassee, Fla.) -- Terrion Arnold. Also, we know Texas A&M doesn't think Harvey is coming.
So I'm putting that one at like 90 percent in favor of Auburn.

As for 5-star corner/receiver/point guard Ga'Quincy McKinstry (Kool-Aid), Jason and I both really like where Auburn sits right now. So do the Tigers. In mid/late July, we started to hear McKinstry could be close to having a decision. But he hasn't set a date.
After him, I still say keep an eye on Kamari Lassister, the corner from Tuscaloosa, Ala. He was going to announce Aug. 22 and that seemed to bode well for Auburn. Now, he has delayed his announcement per another outlet. That said, we continue to hear he likely will not drag this out. Georgia is a team to watch obviously. Georgia Tech has fought hard. Clemson joined the party late but that offer seemed to get his attention. I don't think Auburn is as confident as it was not too long ago -- but he still very possibly could join the class.

Q: Can we get updates on Smael Mondon/Jeremiah Williams?

A: Haven't heard much new on 5-star linebacker Smael Mondon of Dallas (Ga.) Paulding County. We continue to hear it's an Auburn-Georgia battle. For the Tigers, he definitely is No. 1 on the linebacker board. With the Bulldogs, he's also near the top -- they are are really hard after Xavian Sorey of Florida. Having lost out on 4-star in-state target Barrett Carter to Clemson, Georgia certainly won't want to let Mondon get away. But Auburn continues be in a fairly decent spot. It probably could go either way, and Auburn is hopeful his relationship with linebackers coach Travis Williams is the difference.

I continue to hear the Auburn staff is optimistic that at day's end, 4-star outside linebacker/buck Jeremiah Williams of Birmingham (Ala.) will be a Tiger. But it would be foolish of us to dismiss Florida, which is right there at the top with the Tigers. What could hurt the Gators is if recruit visits are canceled for the remainder of the recruiting cycle -- and many we've talked to think that could happen. He has only visited Florida once. For now, we like Auburn in a close one that could drag out.

Q: Have seen a lot of OU crystal balls for Savion Byrd ... it’s also been real quiet on our end. Anything with him Keith?

A: Auburn always knew it was an uphill batte for 4-star offensive tackle Savion Byrd of the Dallas area in Texas. Some with the Tigers thought Oklahoma would be the biggest threat. So the fact the Sooners are getting Crystal Ball picks isn't a surprise. Oklahoma has historically recruited that area well. Right now, this really looks like it will come down to Oklahoma and the hometown SMU Mustangs. Not that long ago, some were saying Byrd was all but a lock to the Mustangs. Now, it appears to be a two-team race. It seems clear distance from home isn't helping Auburn.

Q: What are your thoughts on offensive line? I am thinking we might get one before the season starts.

A: Don't have any strong feelings right now on this position group. It's clear 5-star tackle Amarius Mims of Georgia is the top target -- by a mile. He announces his commitment Oct. 14. Some at Auburn think the Tigers have a real shot to knock off Georgia here. But others say this reminds them of the Broderick Jones recruitment the last cycle. What we know is this: Mims has visited Auburn twice this year and enjoyed both trips. He's fairly good friends with Tigers quarterback commit Dematrius Davis. He wants to play early in college. He likes the coaching staff a lot. Add it up, and perhaps that gives Auburn a chance.

After him, the Tigers really like Diego Pounds of North Carolina. But right now, Penn State is trending with the Crystal Ball.

Back in March (story HERE), I wrote about 3-star tackle Jack Tucker of Argyle (Texas), after Auburn offered him. He said he had strong interest in the Tigers at the time -- but later committed to Texas Tech. Could he again be someone to watch? (Dukes seems to think so). The state of Texas has plenty of good linemen this cycle. Could be other options there.

Down-the-line guys include in-state prospects Rod Orr and Rayvon Crum. Early season film could be significant here.

Q: Are we recruiting linebacker Xavian Sorey?

A: Auburn absolutely is recruiting 4-star linebacker Xavian Sorey. But like we've been saying for awhile, the Tigers might be sitting in third (at best). Florida, Georgia and Alabama all have more buzz here.

Even though Sorey attends Bradenton IMG Academy in Florida, he's from the Graceville area. That's home to Gators legend Neal Anderson -- and sometimes, those things matter.

With Georgia, the Bulldogs have recruited him extremely hard. In fact, Bulldogs coach Kirby Smart attended one of his basketball games earlier this year.

Then you have Bama, which continues to hang around.

If Auburn can't land Sorey, then perhaps you'd want him at Georgia. That might make it easier to get Mondon if the Bulldogs already have Sorey.

Q: If you had to but a Crystal Ball in for Auburn right now. Who is it?

A: Maybe Jeremiah Williams, the 4-star outside backer/buck. Maybe 3-star corner Kamal Hadden -- the No. 5 junior college corner in the country. Maybe Smael Mondon, the 5-star linebacker.

Just not there yet in my head.

Very hard cycle to cover. Not only is in-person recruiting off for the colleges, I'm limited in my contact with recruits as well. Makes it a challenge.

Q: Keith, if we miss out on Mondon and Sorey (and I hope we don't), who do you feel the best about that we have a chance with at linebacker -- Ian Jackson, Raheim Sanders, Trevin Wallace or maybe a sleeper that might be possible?

A: I actually think, despite his ties to Auburn, 4-star backer Ian Jackson would be difficult to flip from Alabama. Obviously, you'd have to keep an eye on Arkansas commit Raheim Sanders of Rockledge (Fla.). Two of his former teammates being at Auburn wouldn't hurt here. We've always been told the Tigers think they could get him if they really push. So maybe him.

Trevin Wallace of Georgia is another interesting one. He's a Boston College commit, but Auburn has sort of kept him warm. He likes the Tigers a lot and wants to visit.

But will there be visits? Will Auburn push? Where does he sit on the board? The answers to those questions aren't known. South Carolina might be a team to watch here.

Auburn is looking at many other guys. Some aren't committed. Some are committed elsewhere.

But right now, I'm not sure the board is set. And .... it shouldn't be. Not in my opinion.

With the season about to start, how the board shakes out probably will depend on early season film.

Q: It doesn't seem outside of the realm of possibility for running back commit Armoni Goodwin to get a fifth star, does it?

A: He would really have to crush his senior year to get everyone's attention. I mean CRUSH it. But even so, remember, he's only in that 5-feet-8, 5-feet-9 range. Nothing wrong with that at all.

But at that size, you'd better be a freak to be a 5-star. In the 2020 class, Clemson signee Demarkcus Bowman was a 5-star at 5-9 and 191 pounds. So it can be done.

But is Goodwin that type of talent? Nobody knows for sure since he only played in four games last year before sustaining a pretty serious knee injury.

Regardless of whether he's a 5-star or a 4-star, Auburn seems to love him.

Q: Keith, what players currently committed do you think will most likely get a ratings bump?

A: That is always hard to predict. One reason is this: I have in recent years really let the rankings people do their own thing withouth much interference from me. It's their job to do them, not mine. They don't need team site nerds like me bothering them.

But ...

I would think the guys to watch would be OT J'Marion Gooch, TE Landen King, OL Garner Langlo, DE Tobechi Okoli and S Phillip O'Brien Jr.

I'd probably put Gooch at No. 1 on that list. To me, he has some serious upside.

Q: Any news on 4-star running back LJ Johnson?

A: All the buzz right now is with Texas. It might end up being a Texas-Texas A&M battle. Auburn and LSU are hanging around, too. The Longhorns have really been surging of late according to our men and women on the ground in that state.