James Smith, NOLA.com
Amite wide receiver Devonta Smith picked August 15 for his decision date with four schools in play for the five-star prospect.
The talented, 6-1, 170-pound receiver has been a hot commodity for some time and is ready to focus on the next chapter of his life.
“I’m ready to put this process behind me,” Smith said. “Honestly, I just looked at a calendar, closed my eyes and picked a date. I want to get it over before my senior season and I have a visit to Miami scheduled later this month, which should help me in my decision. I plan on taking all five of my official visits regardless, though.”
Smith’s list of favorites has changed quite a bit throughout the recruiting process, as is the case with most prospects. He feels confident in his final four.
“I’m basically down to four schools,” Smith said. “Mississippi State, Miami, Nebraska and Alabama. All of those schools have a lot to offer me, and have done a good job recruiting me.”
Smith went on to explain why each school appeals to him.
Miami: “Trusted coach (Mark) Richt once and I feel that I can trust him again. Coach Ron Dugans is a man of his word. He is like a father figure. They have a rich program tradition and a strong history of producing wide receivers.”
Alabama: “They are always playing for National Championships. The coaching staff is great, not too far from home and they were on me early and never let up.”
Nebraska: “Coach (Keith) Williams is one of the best there is in the business. He’s a great position coach and I feel like I could be that missing piece to help them get on top again.”
Mississippi State: “They are close to home, coach (Billy) Gonzalez has been staying in touch with me almost everyday. He has shown they have a lot of interest in me. Coach Knox is like a father figure, too.”
One glaring fact is that LSU didn’t make the cut for the state’s top prospect. Smith grew up a Tigers’ fan and thought he would end up playing football there, but has since had a change of heart.
“I have a lot of respect for the coaches and the LSU program, but their offense just doesn’t suit me well,” Smith said. “Coach Craig and Orgeron did a great job recruiting me, but it’s just not the right fit.”