Patterson signing a big statement by Joker

Larry Vaught has an article that points out Tim Patterson's commitment to UK is a big PR win for Joker. I agree with Larry 100% on this one. Patterson's commitment shut up the Louisville fans and even some UK fans. There is speculation that Patterson may have to grey shirt because of academic reasons. Whether the speculation is justified or not, his commitment is huge for Joker Phillips and "Operation Win". I look forward to watching Patterson suit up in blue.

Super Bowl Sunday

Normally, I don't care who wins the Super Bowl (just want to see a great game). However, I will be rooting for Jacob Tamme because he is a former Cat. As most UK fans, I would love to see him do well. Based on reports from Larry Vaught, Tamme invited UK's Chuck Smith to be one of his guests during the Super Bowl. Smith was blown away by the opportunity to attend the Super Bowl and admits using Tamme's name with recruits to plug UK (smart move). I don't know how many opportunities Tamme will receive tonight as a backup, but it would be nice to see a former Cat earn a Super Bowl ring.

Kal Prince (2011 UK Recruit) QB

Kal Prince is another top in-state quarterback the Cats are recruiting. Prince is receiving interest from several BCS programs.

Christian Wallace (2011 UK Recruit) QB

Christian Wallace is one of the top QB's in the state of Kentucky for 2011. It will be interesting to watch Joker Phillips and Charlie Strong battle for the Louisville native.

Possible late additions?

The 2010 recruiting class appears to be wrapped by most accounts. However, Joker said during his press conference that the staff wasn't done recruiting. It's still possible to add another player to the class. Two names that come to mind are Patrick Swilling Jr. (New Orleans, LA) and Tyrrell Willis (Murray, KY).

Swilling said he may not decide on signing day as he still had a few visits he needed to take, including one to UK. Swilling is being pursued by several BCS programs and would be another welcome addition to UK's program. Swilling projects to play LB or Safety at the next level.

Willis visited UK for the Louisville game, but then gave the Cardinal staff his verbal at one point. It's unclear if the new UL staff turned him away or he isn't going to qualify. Regardless, UK had some interest. There are some reports that Memphis is recruiting Willis as well. Willis projects as a middle linebacker or defensive end. He also ran the ball in high school so it could be possible he could play full back as well.

Joker has made it clear, UK will not take any players unless they are better than what they already have. Also, with 2011 being such a small class, the staff could elect to save scholarships for next year too.

Why Joker was the right choice

In my opinion, this is why Joker Phillips was the right man for the job. He's passionate and loyal. He has an opportunity to build something special at Kentucky. Even if Joker Phillips is extremely successful at UK, I can't see him leaving. Why? He Bleeds Blue!

Biggest Surprise in Recruiting Class

In my opinion, Tim Patterson's commitment to UK was the biggest surprise of the entire class. More so than Brandon Gainer's commitment. I spoke to Gainer and knew the Cats were an option, but I thought he was headed to UNC because he didn't take an official to UK.

However, with Patterson, all signs indicated he would be a Cardinal. First, his high school teammate, Stefan Robinson, was already committed to UL and his coach even felt they would play together. Second, you had the Charlie Strong factor. Tim had to be caught up in "getting their swag back". Third, there have been reports that Patterson would not qualify and "that' why Joker offered Huguenin".

I guess everyone, including myself overlooked the "Joker Factor". I personally saw Patterson at UK for a few games (never spoke to him). I knew there was interest and during the season and thought he would be a Cat. When it came down to signing day, I thought he would be a Cardinal (for the reasons above).

I'm glad Patterson is a Cat and I'm looking forward to watching him in UK Blue!

Mychal Bailey could return kicks for UK

Larry Vaught has a nice article on Mychal Bailey with quotes from Joker Phillips. Bailey is another La Grange recruit that has already been called "heat-seeking missile". Now Joker is saying Bailey will return kicks too. I can't wait to see him on the field for UK.

Tyler Brause a Valedictorian

Jody Demling has another great article on UK Commit Tyler Brause. The 3-star athlete will get an opportunity to play QB at UK, but may not finish his career there. Brause was recruited as a QB, LB, TE and Safety before committing to UK. Brause will graduate from high school as the Valedictorian. Sounds like another great addition to the program.

Lamar Dawson (2011 UK Recruit)

Lamar Dawson (Boyle County, KY) is one of UK's top in-state recruits for 2011. Dawson is starting to receive a ton of interest from other schools outside the state. Many people feel that Dawson is UK's to lose because of the relationship Chuck Smith has with the coaching staff at Boyle County. However, don't be surprised if Dawson takes his visits and decides after his senior season. Dawson is projected to play linebacker in college, but could also play fullback.

Shamir Jeffery (2011 QB Recruit)

Shamir Jeffery (Calhoun County, SC) is one of UK's top quarterback targets for the 2011 class. Most schools are offering Jeffery as an athlete (receiver) as he has big hands and very athletic. Jeffery has stated he wants to play quarterback. UK the only school at this point (based on what I know) who has offered him a scholarship to play quarterback.

Of course, his brother is Alshon (who killed UK last year for SC) therefore, the Cats will have their hands full in landing his services. Shamir lives about 30 miles from USC's campus and spends a lot of time there because of his brother. Joker has done some amazing things, but in my opinion, it will be hard for him to leave the state of South Carolina.

2011 Recruiting Outlook

With the 2010 recruiting almost wrapped up it's time to start thinking about 2011. The staff has been planting seeds for 2011 and there is more in-state talent next year than in previous years. The staff had to work until the 11th hour to make this year's class happen. As Joker stated, "we were relentless". I don't think that will be the case next season with a full year to work on recruits.

I have already developed a 2011 recruiting "big board". UK is involved with at least 60 players already. The staff will put a big emphasis on recruiting KY, SC, GA, OH, FL, IN, TN. David Tuner has relationships with the Juco's in Mississippi already so don't be surprised if UK brings in one or two recruits in January. The staff will likely put a big emphasis on signing the following positions, Quarterback, Wide Receiver, Offensive Line and Defensive Tackle.

Here are a few of the top 2011 in state recruits UK is involved with currently:

• Neal Pawsat (QB)
• Christian Wallace (QB)
• Kal Prince (QB)
• DaMarcus Smith (QB) verbal to UL
• Jerrell Moore (RB) verbal to UL
• DeVante Parker (WR) verbal to UL
• Henry Mitchell (TE)
• Darrian Miller (OL) verbal to UK
• Zack West (OL)
• Dylan Richardson (OL)
• Lamar Dawson (LB)
• Chris Dukes (CB)
• Daylen Hall (CB)
• Jamon Brown (DT) verbal to UL
• Randall Turner (DT) verbal to UL
• Jon Davis (Ath) verbal to UK

I've heard rumors that UK could have 1-2 more 2011 commits in the next couple of weeks. One from Kentucky and one from Indiana. With the 2011 class being so small, the staff will be extremely picky on who they take.

Jabari Johnson (2010 UK Commit) LB

Johnson played linebacker in high school and will start out there with UK. However, don't be surprised if he moves to defensive end at some point in his career. He could be a Johnny Williams type player.

Justin Henderson (2010 UK Commit) DE

Henderson was UK's first commit in the 2010 class and has already enrolled at school. Since he will work out with the team and go through spring practice he could earn a back up spot next season. Henderson played at a high school in South Carolina that produces a ton of D1 players.

Josh Gibbs (2010 UK Commit) DB

Gibbs is another fast athlete that will contribute on special teams and in the secondary. Gibbs has already enrolled at UK and will have a jump start on the rest of the 2010 class.

Miles Simpson (2010 UK Commit) RB

The staff has stated that Simpson would be a running back at Kentucky. The coaches feel he has the body to make it through a SEC schedule and pick up the extra yard when necessary. Another key in-state commit.

Tim Patterson (2010 UK Commit) DE/LB

I've heard Patterson could grey-shirt if his grades don't get him in at UK. Hopefully he makes it on campus. Another key recruit to continue the Louisville pipeline.

Tyler Brause (2010 UK Commit) QB

Joker stated that Brause would start out with the quarterbacks in 2010. Therefore, he will likely redshirt next season. No reason to waste a year of eligibility unless you have too. Many feel Brause could play tight end or linebacker in college too.

Donte Rumph (2010 UK Commit) DL

If Rumph shows up in May like the staff hopes, he will contribute next season. The staff knows they must get him in football shape.

Eric Simmons (2010 UK Commit) DB

Simmons is another speedster in the 2010 class. Will play cornerback at UK. In my opinion, will likely redshirt next season.

Brice Laughlin (2010 UK Commit) DL

Brice has the potential to contribute at UK early and one day be an All-SEC player. Brice has a good head on his shoulders and the Big Blue Nation should be proud to have him join the program.

Tim McAdoo (2010 UK Commit) OL

Joker said McAdoo would start out working with the offensive line.

Nermin Delic (2010 UK Commit) TE/DE

Mike Douglas (2010 UK Commit) DE

Douglas is another long athletic defensive end who will help UK cut down passing lanes. He is extremely fast. Based on UK's current depth he could redshirt next season. Douglas has a huge upside in my opinion.

Farrington Huguenin (2010 UK Commit) DE/LB

Huguenin has incredible speed for those who were concerned about his offer sheet. I continue to hear there are some academic issues that must be resolved for him to enroll at UK. If he doesn't make it for fall camp, he could grey shirt.

Mychal Bailey (2010 UK Commit)

Remember "Heat-Seeking Missile". Will contribute on special teams immediately and help out in the secondary too.

Ronnie Shields (2010 UK Commit) TE

Shields is another long tight end (6'5" and 225lbs) who can block and catch. UK has done a great job starting the pipeline to Stephenson High School in Georgia. These kids know how to win and will bring their winning culture to UK.

Teven Eatmon (2010 UK Commit) TE/OL

Eatmon could play tight end at UK or end up on the offensive line. He is very athletic for his size (6'7" and 290lbs). He is gonna be fun to watch at the next level.

Mychal Bailey a "heat-seeking missile"

Mychal Bailey (SW Mississippi CC) is another LaGrange, GA commit the fans are going to "really like a lot" according to his Steve Pardue (high school coach). Pardue feels that Bailey could find himself on UK's special teams in a hurry. Joker Phillips stated in his press conference that Bailey should help the team next year.

After Bailey committed, many fans were concerned becuase he was unranked according to Rivals. It appears there was enough complaints that Rivals finally made him a two star recruit. Again, this is another example of Rivals star ranking system. Bailey was a two star recruit out of high school (two years ago) and Rivals gives him the same ranking? The guy earned All-Conference, All-Region and received All-American Honors this past season.

The Cats put emphasis on speed in the 2010 class. UK must continue to get faster. The program has come a long way, but can still improve. I'm sure "The Rock" will help too.

ESPN's Recruiting Analysis on UK

Chris Low gives his breakdown of UK's 2010 recruiting class. Read the article, it points out how little he truly knows about the class.

Jerrell Priester (UK Commit) Video

Jerrell surprised many people and picked UK over Vandy at the last minute. The kid has 4.3 forty speed and will play on both sides of the ball. Look for Preister to possibly return kick offs or punts too.

Alex Smith wanted to be at Kentucky

Jody Demling has another great article on UK commit Alex Smith (4-Star TE). Smith's recruitment was a little odd, but in the end he picked UK because of Joker Phillips and his love for UK. Smith could be a huge contributor next season, but will have to work hard to play early.

Dale Trimble ready to "show out"

Jody Demling has a great article with Dale Trimble. As I have stated before, Trimble is a special player and will make an impact at UK. He has the size and speed to contribute as a true freshman. Dale told me during one interview, that he wanted to "show out" at Kentucky.

Avery Williamson (2010 Commit) LB

Tee Martin to Kentucky

Reports are coming out that Tee Martin will be the next receivers coach at Kentucky. In my opinion, this is huge for recruiting as Martin works the Elite 11 camps as well. New Mexico newpapers are already confirming it.

Dale Trimble (2010 Commit) CB

ESPN hands out grades

Chris Low breaks down the SEC recruiting classes for 2010. Low ranks the Cats No 11 in the conference and gives them a C+. In my opinion, this class is much better than many think. The Cats loaded up on defense and added guys like Jerrell Priester and Brandon Gainer at the last minute on offense. I look for Joker and Co. to add higher profile players in 2011 which will help with perception.

Raymond Sanders (2010 Commit) RB

Brandon Gainer (2010 Commit) RB

Alex Smith TE Video

Top Five Recruits 2010

There will be a ton of breakdowns on the recuits over the next few days. All of which should be very good. In my opinion, the top five are:

Alex Smith (TE)- Smith flipped from UNC to UK and should be a welcome addition. The Cats really need someone to step in and fill the void left by Jacob Tamme. Smith has the ability to block and make big plays. Smith needs to come to Lexington motivated and focused.

Brandon Gainer (RB)- Gainer has the frame to be an every down back. He can take it to the house or grind it out for the extra yard. I was truly surprised he chose UK. He told me yesterday that he visited UK for a camp. He didn't take an official visit there. He seemed destined to be at UCF with a bunch of teammates, but his family felt going away to college was best for him.

Raymond Sanders (RB)- "Flash" Sanders will be a household name in Kentucky before his time is up. The kid plays much bigger than he he is...all heart! The staff has stated they will move Sanders around a lot on offense. He doesn't have the frame to be an every down back yet. Sanders could also return punts and kick offs for the Cats. One of the most exciting players in the class.

Dale Trimble (CB)- Dale Trimble is one of the most underrated players in the entire class. Even Rivals considers him a sleeper. Trimble has the size to dominate at cornerback in the SEC. Trimble told me that his "covering ability" is his strength. He is a playmaker and will compete for playing time from day one.

Avery Williamson (LB)- Avery is another Tennessee product that "got away" from their program. Avery will compete with Ronnie Sneed and Qua Huzzie for playing time. Avery is already stronger that most linebackers on the UK roster. He plays down hill, which is a must to play linebacker in the SEC. Avery has the potential to be mentioned with guys like "Micah, Maxwell and Williams" before his time is up at UK.

Overall the 2010 class is very solid. Brice Laughlin, Joe Mansour, Nermin Delic, Mychal Bailey, Justin Henderson and Jerrell Priester should all contribute next season as well. Again, kudos to the staff for putting together an exceptional class. Give them a full year and see what they can do in 2011!

GO CATS!

Another Signing Day Picture

Dale Trimble sent this picture to me this afternoon after he signed his LOI with Kentucky. Dale is going to be a great addition to the UK program. He is one of my top five commits in the 2010 class. Dale could make an impact next season due to his size. Other programs tried to convince Dale to sign with them (Ole Miss, Miss State and Auburn), Dale stayed true to UK and everyone should appreciate that!

GO CATS!

Joker Presser

Here is the link to the Joker Presser. It is a very good statement on how this program has progressed in the past years as well.

Quick Hits! DLine

So Far

Alvin Davis: DE-A Georgia kid that brings it, will probably redshirt, gain 35 lbs and be ready for the '11 season, to me he looks more like a strong side than weak

Nermin Delic: DE-Son of a Special Forces Soldier from Bosnia, see Alvin Davis

Mike Evans Douglas: DE-See Alvin Davis, probably a WDE, has speed

Justin Henderson: DE-Already on campus, learning the playbook and working out, of the freshmen, he definitely has the early lead

Brice Laughlin: DT-his dad played at the Citadel, plays disiplined and with emotion, most have him at DT, he already weighs 285 lbs, and benches over 350 lbs, he might actually play as a freshman

Tim McAdoo: DT-the sky is the limit for him, does he want it bad enough? some have said that he has grade problems, with his size, it will be hard for the coaches to keep him off of the field as a freshman, everyone wants him to help in stopping the run

Donte Rumph: will he finally get in? He reportedly has the size and ability, may find himself in the mix early, he has been out of Hs for 3 yrs now, is he a DT? or a DE? does he have any rust?

Quick Hits! Linebackers

So Far:

Farrington Huguenin: From so. Carolina, a 2*, can bench over 300 # and yet has not been in a strength and conditioning program, some said that he would play on the DL, will probably sit for a year or 2 (One place showed him as a linebacker another as a DE)

Jabari Johnson: A Stephenson player, probably at one of the outside positions, some have said that he might have grade issues? Makes plays everywhere, good tackler

Malcolm McDuffin: a real player, most think he is a SAM Linebacker, good tackler, provides great depth

Tim Patterson: some think MLB others think SLB, some say grades are an issue, one of the huge surprises of the class (most thought that he would be a Louisville Cardinal), again for now a depth player

Avery Williamson: most think that he is a Mike LB, which is probably correct, wants to play, shows up to play, given his makeup, he has everything it takes to make it big time for the CATS, he told aaron that the UK coaches have told him that he is already as strong as the linebackers on the team, might ascend the depth chart quickly-we shall see

Quick Hits! Defensive Backs

So far, the class has:

Josh Gibbs DB: plays in one of the deepest areas on the team, already has college experience, will definitely have the chance to show that he belongs

Eric Simmons DB: a 2* from Atlanta, looks like a player

Jerrell Priester DB: one of the surprises and may truly surprise many before it is over at UK

Dale Trimble DB: has stated that he is solid and will also be in the class. Many think that he will be the best of the DBs (if he does truly commit)

Quick Hits! Offense

Ok Here goes!

Tyler Brause QB: will learn from a great QB teacher and sit for a while

Joe Mansour K: supposedly hits 50 yarders with accuracy and awe

Brandon Gainer RB: depending on the Service, rated as one of the top RBs in this class may be a real player, upgrades the talent and depth

Raymond Sanders RB: Close to a 4*, a mix between Derrick Locke and Randall Cobb (small, fast, and shifty), adds a unique dimension to the offense

Teven Eatmon TE/OL: how do you teach 6 ft 8 in and 280 lbs and great movement? I say make him an OLT and let the chips fall where they may

Miles Simpson RB: some have speculated LB as well, is in the mix, will he be a player?

Alex Smith TE: one of the top TEs in this class, a "surprise" Definite upgrade from what we had at the position, how soon can he play?

Still waiting on....

I contacted Dale Trimble and he told me he was "solid" to UK. He was about to sign just before lunch time. Trimble is still one of the top 5 commits in this class (my opinion).

Tyler Robinson was rumored to be a target by Tennessee. When I spoke with Avery Williamson last week, he told me Tyler was solid to UK. Could something have changed? Absolutely.

My only concern is no offensive line commits so far. Teven Eatmon will likely plan OL, but the Cats needs at least one in this class.

Also, the Cats haven't announced a LOI for a receiver. Hopefully something happens before the day is up. Jerrell Priester could play receiver, but is projected at cornerback based on our conversations.

2 More are in!

Teven Eatmon and Raymond Sanders are in!

Ok, So I was wrong!

McAdoo comment!

The reason that I stated that UK would not acept McAdoo's LOI was because of his reported grade issues. Not doubt, Tim is an outstanding athlete and should be able to dominate at the college level!

We should all be glad that he is a Wildcat!

Aren't you glad that I was wrong on this one?

Waitin on more!

Still Waiting on Raymond Sanders, A WR, and Teven Eatmon!

Come on Guys!

The Latest Commits

Here are the latest!

Tim McAdoo DT -(Bill didn't think UK would take him with the rumors have him not being qualified). McAdoo is worth the risk...he is big! Aaron

Donte Rumph DT- Hopefully he makes it to campus!

Farrington Huguenin DE- Like Joker said, adding more DL depth

Jerrell Priester DB- Overall one heck of an athlete. Look for him to play CB.

Keep it coming!

Quick View So Far!

It looks like Speed, Athleticism, and Play Making ability rules with this class. By far, the most talented class of my lifetime followed by the 2009 class.

EDITED: Of course, the '09 class did have the more prolific names at QB!

Operation Win in Full Effect

Joker Phillips is putting on a show today in Lexington. The Cats have pulled a few surprises and signed just about all of their verbal commitments.

The Big Surprises:

Tim Patterson (DE), Jerrell Priester (ATH) and Brandon Gainer (RB).

Everyone thought Patterson was going to Louisville. I'm shocked as I was convinced he was too after Joker visited him last week and then offered another DE the same day.

Priester had been a soft commit to Vandy and I expected him to stick with his commitment. The last time I spoke to him, he was 50/50 on UK/Vandy. He wants to play football and knows UK is on the rise. No disrespect to Vandy, but that's what the kid told me.

Gainer seemed headed to UNC after his visit, but somehow decided to sign with UK. I still don't think Gainer visited UK. He is a huge pick up for the class.

The Losses:

Ryan Smith picks Auburn. Smith was an all-world athlete and would have been another huge addition for the Cats.

Mike Thornton picks Georgia. No surprise here, as GA was on him early. The Cats were hoping to lure him. I think Thornton would still do better in a 4-3 defense instead of a 3-4.

DJ Howard picks Clemson- Since UK added Gainer, this one doesn't hurt as bad.

Still waiting on Dale Trimble...I should know something soon. He told me last week he was signing with UK, but Auburn and Ole Miss were on him hard too. Keep your fingers crossed.

DJ Howard picks Clemson

He puts on UK hat then takes it off. He puts on Clemson hat then takes it off. Your thinking Auburn...then he puts on another Clemson hat.

Miles Simpson Video Link

Click on the link to see a video of Miles Simpson press conference.

Tim Patterson picks Kentucky

Man, I am shocked. All signs and reports indicated he was going to Louisville. Now, hopefully he doesn't have any grade issues and gets on campus. Huge pick up for UK. I personally saw Tim at a couple of UK games so the interest has always been there. However, his coaches felt he would play at Louisville with his teammates.

Cats lose Ryan Smith to Auburn

Per Rob Gidel, Ryan Smith (Cordova, AL) Athlete has signed with Auburn. This is a big loss for UK, but the additions of Gainer, Priester and Alex Smith help the sting. Still, Ryan Smith was one of my top 5 recruits in the entire class.

Avery Williamson has signed with UK

Avery sent me this picture. Congratulations Avery! We look forward to following your career!

Jerrell Priester picks Kentucky

Another late suprise...Jerrell Priester picks UK over Vandy. Should have an interview with Priester this afternoon. Great kid!

Mike Thornton to Georgia

Reports coming out that Thornton has picked Georgia over UK. Stay tuned

Surprise!

Here is a list of the signees so far:

Alex Smith TE

Brandon Gainer RB

Nermin Delic DE/TE

Eric Simmons DB

Tyler Brause QB

Mike Evans Douglas DE

Malcolm McDuffen LB

Avery Williamson LB

Jabri Johnson LB

Joseph Mansour K

Alvin Davis DE

Brice Laughlin DL

Miles Simpson LB?

Josh Gibbs DB

Surprises:

Brandon Gainer

Alex Smith

Miles Simpson--at least to some extent!

More to come!!

Don't forget the Live Blog today!!

Alex Smith (4-star TE) Signs with UK

Alex Smith has signed and will play for UK next season. Another huge flip by the UK coaching staff. Operation Win in full effect!

Brandon Gainer (4--Star RB) picks UK

Here is the first surprise of the day. UK signs Brandon Gainer from Miami, FL. I spoke to Gainer and he was high on UK, but never had a visit set up. I still don't think he visited UK. If he did, it was kept quiet. It appeared he was heading to UNC.

It's official, Miles Simpson a Cat!

More to come.

and we're off!

It's signing day, can it be any crazier than yesterday? Absolutely! Here is a quick run down:

Miles Simpson is up first at 8:30 am and based on all reports he is choosing Kentucky. I have to admit, I'm surprised as his recruitment was kept quiet.

Mike Thornton is holding a press conference at 9am. Based on everything I heard yesterday, he is going to Georgia. I know several people were lighting candles last night across the Blue Grass hoping for a last minute change of heart. If he comes, it's because his teammates drag him to Lexington.

DJ Howard will hold court at 10 am. Many felt UK had a shot since the Cats had the last visit. Well, based on his comments to Kentucky Ink I believe it's either Auburn or Clemson. He told KI that he still had an offer from Auburn. Apparently he has known for a couple of weeks and if true, it doesn't look good for the Cats.

Tim Patterson has his announcement set for 10:30am. All indications suggest he will sign with Louisville. I've heard UK backed out last week due to his grades, but Joker isn't making that public. I've also heard he will have to either go to prep school or Juco to work out some grade issues.

Jerrell Priester will announce sometime today. He is still considered a "soft commit" to Vandy. He told Jeff Drummond he was still 50/50. Last week, he knew where he was going. He has told me and other people that UK would be a "better fit" for football. Jerrell is a good kid and I wish him luck in his decision.

Also, the Cats appear to be losing Ryan Smith (to another SEC school) and Kenarious Gates (to Georgia). I think the Cats will sign another OL in this class, if not 2011 will be loaded with OL talent. I hope the Cats can make a save with Smith, he was one of my top 5 commits in the current class. The kid is a player.

Joker said he expected both David Turner and Mike Summers to make an impact on this year's class. Well it's report card time, so we'll see what happens.

GO CATS!

Let the Festivities BEGIN!

OK, UK Fans the day is finally here!

1st tidbit of info that I have is that there are "at least 3 surprises" for the day (I am assuming that Alex Smith was one).

I will tryo to post as often as possible this morning, but will be much more available this afternoon.

I want:

D J Howard
M Thornton
A 4* WR
Skyler Schofner
K Gates back


My opinion:
Cats will not accept (at least at this time)
T McAdoo
and 1 more player which I will not name at this time but he is a defensive player!


GBB

Signing Day Press Conferences

Signing Day is here and below are the times key recruits will hold press conferences:

• Miles Simpson - 8:30AM
• Michael Thornton - 9 AM
• DJ Howard - 10 AM
• Tim Patterson - 10:30 AM
  

Jeremy Deering picks Rutgers

Jeremey Deering (Tampa, FL) has decided to play for Rutgers next season per ESPN. Deering is a 3-star Safety who the Cats had recruited. I haven't heard his name around UK in a while, but many people speculated he was an option because of the "UK's not done in Florida" rumors.

Recruiting Rumors and Predictions Live Blog

Tevin McCaden to walk-on at Kentucky

Bryan Station Running Back Tevin McCaden receives a preferred walk-on offer from the Cats. The video is a little fuzzy, but good content.

LIVE BLOG Tonight at 8pm

Alex Smith to sign with Kentucky

Jim Tirey reports Alex Smith will sign with UK tomorrow instead of UNC. Smith recently visited UK and the staff has been recruiting him for a long time. In my opinion, this is a recruit UK gains with Joker being the head coach now. Hopefully, Smith can step in a be a factor at the tight end position next season.

Farrington Huguenin earns his stars

Lost in the madness of everything today, UK commit Farrington Huguenin has been given two stars by Rivals. Huguenin committed last week and was unranked at that time. I point this out to show another example of how the star ranking system works. Always consider the schools involved with a player, not the star ranking.

Kenarious Gates decommits from UK

Jody Demling is reporting that Kenarious Gates (3-Star OL) has decommitted from UK and will sign with Georgia tomorrow. If so, it could be a huge blow to the Cats. The Cats really need to sign and offensive lineman in the 2010 class. Maybe Skyler Schofner could flip to UK from Michigan State or maybe Tim Wynn (Atlanta, GA) will commit to UK tomorrow.

my bad, I had Floyd. too much to keep up with today!

D.J. Howard speculation

Rumors are starting to fly regarding D.J. Howard's recruitment. I spoke to someone close to Clemson today and he feels Howard is going to Kentucky. It has been confirmed that Howard no longer has an offer from Auburn. My Clemson source told me the Tiger coaching staff spent 3 hours on the phone with Howard Sunday night. Take the information for what it's worth, but I can't imagine any staff spending 3 hours on the phone with a recruit unless they were trying to convince him to change his mind. One thing is for sure, we will find out tomorrow.

Nick Martin (2011 OL) has offer from UK

Our man Bill was one of the first to report Nick Martin's offer from UK. Larry Vaught has a nice article on Martin's recruitment. In my opinion, UK is in the driver's seat, unless Notre Dame can pull him over (his brother plays for the Irish).

Miles Simpson to Kentucky?

Gotta love the day before signing day. Now rumors are flying that Simpson will choose Kentucky. He has requested the Cats Pause to attend his press conference. Hopefully the Cats still have a shot at DJ Howard too!

**Update at 2:04 pm**

More and more sources are confirming Simpson will choose UK tomorrow. Based on the number of reports, I would consider it a done deal.

Ryan Smith to hold press conference

Ryan Smith (Cordova, AL) will hold a press conference tomorrow. It sounds like he is not signing with UK and likely headed to another SEC school (Auburn). This is tough for the Cats as Smith was one of the top players in the class (top five in my opinion).

Grant Donovan possible grey shirt

Per Jody Demling, Grant Donovan (Long Snapper) holds offers from both UK and Louisville to grey shirt for 2010. Click here to read the article. Per the article, he may wait and decide after signing day. He is weighing his options.