By Austin Nelson//Contributing Writer
With a class of 24 confirmed on National Signing Day, head coach Rick Stockstill and staff know that the work is just beginning for the team.
“All that matters now is how hard they work, how hard they compete, and how dedicated they can be,” Stockstill said Wednesday afternoon at a press conference. “I really like this class.”
A class that is filled with depth on both sides of the ball is huge for the momentum of the program.
“There are a lot of talented, talented players in it. I feel like we met all of our needs. If we fell short in a position, it was probably linebacker. We wanted three, but got two really, really good ones.”
Myles Harges and Chris Melton are the two linebackers that committed to the Blue Raiders. Harges (6-foot-2, 220 pounds, Jr.) is a junior college transfer and has already enrolled in class for the 2015 spring semester.
Coach Stockstill said he was happy with how he and his staff were able to keep 24 quality kids during the recruiting process.
“Recruiting is all about relationships. You have to be an octopus. You have to touch the mom, the aunt, the grandma, the barber, the funeral director, the preacher, whoever has a hand on that kid,” he said.
Out of the 24 commitments for the team, running back I’Tavius Mathers is one that sticks out in particular. Mathers, (5-foot-11, 190 pounds, r-Jr.) an Ole Miss transfer, has to sit out the 2015 season due to NCAA transfer rules.
“I think it’s a big deal. I think he’s got a wonderful personality, he’s got a smile on his face, he’s happy,” Stockstill said of Mathers. “Obviously, he’s a good player. I think he will get everything out of his last year he wants here.”
A laidback Coach Stockstill concluded his press conference with “a feeling of satisfaction.”
Spring practice begins March 20 for the Blue Raiders followed by the Blue and White game April 18.
For more Blue Raider sports, follow us at www.mtsusidelines.com, on Facebook at MTSU Sidelines and on Twitter at @Sidelines_Sport.
To contact sports editor Connor Grott, email [email protected] or reach him on Twitter at @Connor_Grott.
