Class of 2008 Big Ten recruiting overview, part one
January 24, 2008
John Brumbaugh
From ESPN.com (Insider):
Singing Day Storylines: Despite landing Benn in 2007, Illinois will lack good receiver depth the next few years and filled some of that void with Alfred Jenkins (Jacksonville, Fla./Terry Parker), a potential playmaker at the next level, and Cordale Scott (Cleveland/Glenville), a smooth, big-play possession receiver. ESPN 150 6-foot-3 receiver Kenny Tate (Forestville, Md./DeMatha Catholic) is also looking strongly at Champaign as well. Look for Deries Hodge (Harrisburg, Pa./Milford), an explosive power-back currently prepping at Milford Academy, to get some carries next year with Rashard Mendenhall declaring early for the NFL draft.
Our one concern is the loss of Jeremy (J) Leman at middle linebacker and the lacking depth behind him. Justin Staples (Lakewood, Ohio/Saint Edward) and Nate Palmer (Chicago/Simeon) are serviceable outside backers but not the answer in the middle.
Top Prospect: Illinois went into Florida for Nixon and stole a good one. One of the most versatile defensive back prospects in the country, Nixon possesses great upside for the next level with his room for physical development and natural tools to mold as at the position. Despite his lack of ideal bulk, this kid will come up and pop you while providing sufficient run support. In coverage, he displays the quick feet to mirror in man-to-man and the great range needed in zone. Could be employed at safety or corner and provide his future defensive coordinator with great scheme versatility.
Could see the field in 2008: Nixon, Hodge and Jenkins.