Cornerback Jai Eugene is the No. 1 rated prospect at his position. But this five-star cornerback is playing quarterback this season and he has led his team to a 10-1 record and a trip to the quarterfinals this weekend against West Monroe (La.). He has 1,824 yards passing, 891 yards rushing and 24 total touchdowns. Defensively, he has three interceptions and 10 tackles.
”I am enjoying playing quarterback,” said Eugene. “But I do play a little defense when they (opponent) a good wide receiver or if the situation calls for it.”
With the season ending soon for Eugene his focus to recruiting has took a turn. Last weekend he made his first official visit. He has his remaining for lined up and six schools are still in the mix.
”I went up to Michigan for the Ohio State,” said Eugene. “I only went for one day because I had to be back for practice. It was a great visit. I love the players and coaches up there. If I go up there I think I can get some early playing time. The facilities are awesome and so in the stadium. It was a great game and I love Michigan.”
For now, Eugene says he will visit Southern Cal (12-16), Tennessee (1-13), Florida (1-20) and Miami (1-27).
”I switched that USC visit to December,” said Eugene. “It is such a great program and it has that great tradition. USC has great coaches and I love Pete Carroll. He came by my school when I was a sophomore and I have loved him since. He’s just an inspiring guy.
“I am either visiting Tennessee in December or January. I pretty sure it’s in January after the All-American Bowl. Tennessee is a school I have liked a while because I really like Coach (Trooper) Taylor. I have known him since he was at Tulane.
”I went to Florida for their Friday Night Lights camp and I had such a good time. They have great facilities too and I like that coach staff a lot.
“Miami was a school I camped at between my sophomore and junior year. I loved it down there. I also really like CJ (coach Curtis Johnson). I am very close to him.”
But the team to beat could be the home-state Tigers, who he will not make an official visit to.
“I have been to LSU so many times that I will not make an official visit there. I know that place and the people so well. I would say it is 50-50 that I leave the state but I am trying to approach this with an open mind and just compare everyone to LSU. I talk to coach (Les) Miles every week. LSU is my home-state school and my home is here. But I would say right now that I am open.”