A big-name commitment is a positive sign for the Buffs
Oct 16, 2019, 8:35 AM | Updated: 8:54 am
When Mel Tucker took the job at Colorado, he knew that his No. 1 task would be competitive in recruiting. Simply put, the Buffaloes needed more talent.
On Tuesday, the head coach showed that he’s ready to deliver on that mission. The Buffs made a splash, getting a commitment from Brenden Rice, the son of Hall of Fame wide receiver Jerry Rice.
Name recognition is what will get all of the attention, but the wideout from Chandler, Ariz. is more than just a publicity stunt. Rice is a big-time player.
The Hamilton High School star is a three-star recruit who has visits with the likes of Michigan, Cal, Arizona and Arizona State. The fact that Colorado was fishing in the same waters as those programs is a positive. Winning the battle amongst some of the big boys is even more encouraging.
Rice is 6-foot-2, 208 pounds and he runs the 40 in 4.62 seconds. So he’ll be a big targets in CU’s offense in coming years.
According to 247 Sports, the wide receiver has a lot of upside:
Muscular and solidly built frame. Good length and physical upside. Impressive straight-line speed. Can make defenders miss in the open field. Athleticism to high-point the football and body up defensive backs. Contributes as a run blocker and can be an asset on short-yardage situations. Could refine overall fluidity, particularly in getting out of his breaks. Decent hands, but room for improvement as consistent pass-catcher. Potential multi-year starter at Power Five level. Upside as NFL Draft Day 3 selection.
The name will get all of the attention, but the fact that the Buffs won a high-profile recruiting battle is the real story. It’s a sign that Tucker is up to the task in Boulder.
