"It was a pretty good experience because I got to see how I match up against
the best," added Corey Gaines. "There are only a 100,00 people from
my area (Tallahassee, FL) so I wanted to see how I matched up against the country's
best., and I think I did pretty good. I was the shortest lineman there, but
other than that, there was not any difference."
What did Corey learn about himself?
"I think I need to work on my techniques, and I need to get a little stronger
and get in better condition. I had not been lifting for a couple of weeks because
we were out on Christmas break, and I think I was a little out of condition."
Corey played offensive center in the game, but the college recruiters still
project him at defensive tackle.
"I have been starting at defensive tackle for a year, and I have been starting
on the offensive line for three years. I have more experience on the offensive
side of the ball, but they like my size and feet for defensive tackle. I went
to a combine in Gainesville last summer, and I started getting a lot of looks
at defensive tackle. They loved my first step. Then I played defensive tackle
in the playoffs and did really good. I had a few sacks, and it kind of went
from there."
Which colleges still have an offer on the table for the repeat Class 3A All-State
selection?
"Tulane, Iowa State, Auburn, Tennessee, Central Florida, South Florida,
FIU, Arkansas, and Ole Miss."
Which colleges are now at the top of Gaines' list?
"Ole Miss, Arkansas, and Auburn."
Any visits lined up?
"I am going to Ole Miss this weekend (1/16), Arkansas the week after (1/23),
and Auburn most likely on the 30th (of January). I am not sure about that one
yet, but it is looking that way."
South Florida was in Corey's top three at last report; where do they stand?
"I might do a mid-week visit, but I do not know if I will take that visit
anymore or not."
What is going on with Ole Miss?
"Coach (Chris) Vaughn is a graduate from Godby so we have that connection.
He knows my coaches, administration, and a lot of the same folks I know around
town. He just knows this area, and Coach thinks I will be a good fit over there.
That is why I am going over there this weekend, to see if I fit in."
What stands out about Ole Miss outside of Coach Vaughn?
"Their program is on the rise and Coach Nutt has a lot to do with that.
Before, they were not that real good, but now they are winning New Year's Day
bowls."
What about Arkansas?
"They have a good business program. That is what I am going to major in,
Business Management. Coach Petrino is cool and real down to earth. A former
teammate of mine, Kareem Cowell, plays for Arkansas. He likes it up there a
lot."
What else stands out about the Hogs?
"I really only know about their business program, but Kareem tells me it
is a family atmosphere up there. I am looking for a home away from home."
Auburn just entered the mix.
"I do not know that much about Auburn. They sent Coach Steve Ensmingerto
see me play earlier this year, and they were keeping in touch but then they
fell off. Then they hired coach (Gene) Chizik, and they were recruiting me real
hard when he was at Iowa State. Now they are telling me they have to have me.
They are showing me a lot of interest, so I might go check it out."
Which college needs Gaines the most?
"Ole Miss because they have a guy (Peria Jerry) who is going pro."
Two factors will stand above the rest when it comes decision time.
"I am looking for a family atmosphere that has a good business program."
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