Whitaker Makes Thirteen

The Huskers collected a thirteenth commitment for the Class of 2012 when California offensive lineman Corey Whitaker accepted a scholarship offer from Nebraska.  Rivals.com rates Whitaker as a three-star prospect.  The commitment might be considered "soft" as Whitaker may still make a scheduled trip to Oregon this weekend.  The Ducks have not yet offered Whitaker a scholarship but might well do so on his visit.  Whitaker is not the only variable between now and signing day.

 

Figuring out how many players can fit in the class before before letters of intent can be signed isn't a simple task.  Illinois defensive tackle Vincent Valentine will wait until signing day to announce his college destination.  The same is true for Florida offensive tackle Evan Goodman, Arizona offensive lineman Andrus Peat, and Louisiana athlete Alonzo Moore.  The Huskers would like to bring in all four players.  But what if none choose Nebraska?  Can NU afford to make four last minute offers on signing day?  Or might they have to tell one of these players that they just waited too long?

The departure of running backs Lester Ward and Collins Okafor due to graduation creates some additional space that will give the coaches more room to accept commitments.  But there are still more uncommitted players that the NU coaches have offered or could offer than there are available scholarships.  At some point, the game of musical chairs ends with either a player left standing or some extra chairs.

One thing is certain.  For the next nine days, Husker fans will remain on the edge of their seats.