stanger - even though were not in his top choices - he apparently wants to give us a look before he decides - never know what these kids will do
wlayton - DS sounds excited - think he will help get some others
Georgia’s drought on big-time commitments ended Saturday as Damian Swann gave the Bulldogs a pledge on national television during the U.S. Army All-American Bowl in San Antonio.
An AJC Super 11 cornerback from Atlanta’s Grady High School, Swann picked up a Georgia cap and left two others to Alabama and USC on the table while his parents, Mona and Marlon Swann, stood behind him on the East sideline at the Alamodome.
“The University of Georgia. Go Dawgs!,” Swann announced as he placed the UGA hat on his head.
That set off a loud cheer from the crowd around him, including two brothers, two aunts and several cousins that had accompanied him on the trip to Texas. But the truth is, none of them were very surprised. Swann said afterward he has known for weeks he was going to choose the Bulldogs.
“It’s been my decision for about a month,” said Swann, still on the field at the Alamodome signing autographs 45 minutes after the game. “I wanted to do it out here so I had to keep it a secret for a while. But I’m glad to finally get it off my chest.”
Five other players were representing Georgia at the prestigious national all-star game: East Hall linebacker Sterling Bailey (Georgia), Thomas County Central defensive end Ray Drew (undecided), Griffin safety Corey Moore (Georgia), Monroe Area defensive end Stephon Tuitt (Notre Dame) and Eagles Landing Christian Academy safety Avery Walls (Cal). It’s one of this state’s largest contingents every in the Army game.
Georgia fans also got a look at offensive tackle commitment Zach DeBell of Tarpon Springs, Fla., who actually played tight end most of the game. The East won 13-10.
Swann said he hopes his commitment is the domino Georgia needs to get its Dream Team recruiting class back on track.
“I really think I can be,” he said. “I’m going to do as much recruiting as possible. I’m already working on Ray Drew out here. I’ve been talking to Stephon Tuitt, too.”
Swann, who will play cornerback for the Bulldogs, played the entire game Saturday at safety. He played well, too, logging a pass break-up on a hard hit and two other tackles.
“I felt good about the way I played in a competitive game against great players on national television,” Swann said.
Drew, another AJC Super 11 selection and the state’s No. 2-ranked prospect, had a huge game. The 6-foot-5, 250-pound defensive end from Thomas County Central was credited with 2.5 sacks and a caused fumble.
“It was a great game and a great experience, a once-in-a-lifetime-type deal,” Drew said. “I’m really proud of the way I played.”
Drew said Swann was recruiting him even as we spoke on the phone.
“He is,” Drew said. “He knows Georgia is one of schools I’m considering so he’s letting me hear it. “But I don’t know what I’m going to do right now. I’m just going to play it by ear.”
***