’08 GA OLB Keith Wells (Ohio State LOI)

[irishunclebill]

Outside Linebacker
Gainesville (GA) Gainesville

Links of Interest: Rivals Profile (http://notredame.rivals.com/viewprospect.asp?Sport=1&pr_key=60946)

Height: 6 foot-5
Weight: 211 lbs.

Combine
Forty: 4.8
Bench Reps:
Bench Max: 260
Squat Max: 350
Shuttle: 4.53
Vertical: 33 in.
GPA:

Star Ratings
Rivals.com: ****
Scout.com: ****

Rankings & Accolades
Rivals 250 2008 Rivals National WDE #5 Rivals Georgia Top 50 #12
Scout 300 # 201 Scout National DE #21

Statistics

Schools of Interest
Auburn
Florida
Florida State
Georgia Tech
North Carolina
Notre Dame
Ohio State
Tennessee

[irishunclebill]

Keith Wells:

[irishunclebill]

Wells is in South Bend today for the current ND camp. He will be here today only, and it is expected that he has a good chance of receiving an offer before he leaves. Wells is a weakside Defensive End in high school, but is being recruited by the Irish to play the critical OLB spot in the 3-4. All of his schools of interest have offered him with the exception of Notre Dame. He also lists his current Top 6 as everyone on his Schools of Interest with the exception of ND & Tennessee. An ND offer is expected to put them on his list of favorites. Florida is widely considered to be Keith’s top choice, and if he leaves ND today without an offer many people expect him to try to commit to the Gators. The question is whether Wells meets the criteria, or suits an agenda, for Urbie’s class of 2008. I’m not so sure of that, but it will be interesting to see if the ND coaching staff is willing to extend another LB offer.

Wells may be heading to Bucknut land for a day after leaving ND’s camp, but that is not confirmed.

[irishunclebill]

It has been confirmed that Wells was a no-show yesterday.

This may be a new take on the old misuse of the Notre Dame name, this time to try to use the threat of an ND camp visit to force Urbie to accept a verbal committment. If that is the case we will likely find out within a week or so, and if so Urban Meyer has set another dangerous precedent in CFB recruiting.

On the other hand there may be nothing nefarious afoot and Wells just could not make it to South Bend.:) Stay tuned.

[irishunclebill]

Wells is saying that despite his no-show that he is still interested in the Irish, and will try to make it to campus sometime this summer. The sincerity of that statement will be determined by whether he commits or attempts to commit somewhere in the next few weeks. Meanwhile the chances of him receiving an offer at this point in time seems to be nil.

[weis19]

at 211ilbs. he is vey light,but he's got an impressive lists of schools!

[IrishCalves]

There is a new list of favorites published by the recruiting services, and Wells does not include the Irish (like we couldn't see that one coming with the no-show). FSU, UF, GT, UNC, and OSU round out his top 5, with UF being the leader... so long as they don't tell him he's got to wait...

[rontdtarchala]

ooooh I'm sooooo upset

[H-Burg Domer]

Rivals $ (http://rivals100.rivals.com/content.asp?SID=880&CID=690554)

7/11

Keith has already taken trips to 3 of top 6 schools-Ohio State, Georgia Tech, and North Carolina. He plans Auburn this weekend and FSU and UF next weekend.

[irishunclebill]

Rivals $ (http://rivals100.rivals.com/content.asp?SID=880&CID=690554)

7/11

Keith has already taken trips to 3 of top 6 schools-Ohio State, Georgia Tech, and North Carolina. He plans Auburn this weekend and FSU and UF next weekend.

I guess Keith liked his last 3 visits because he has scheduled an announcement date of August 9 where he will select either Auburn, Florida, or FSU. If it's Florida, I wonder if he has asked for Urbie's permission yet. Wouldn't that be embarrasing for Urbie if a recruit like Wells who has a Florida offer picked a Gator hat at one of those hat dance ceremonies, and then Urbie tells the kid, well we're not ready to let you commit yet.

[NDGirlzRock]

Urban Liar is such an a** I'm so glad that we didn't get him as head coach. I can't imagine him tryin' to pull this crap as our head coach. What a lowlife...he belongs in the swamp slitherin' around with the rest of the amphibians.

[irishunclebill]

Wells is making his choice today at 1 PM ET between Auburn, FSU, and UF. He was out buying hats last night for the occassion. Thankfully they don't sell ND hats in Gainesville, GA.

[notredomer23]

idk i see a surprise commit coming here :rolleyes:

[IrishCalves]

My dinero is on FSU.

[irishunclebill]

idk i see a surprise commit coming here :rolleyes:

LOL- do we have a shot with this guy?;)

[IrishCalves]

any more news on him?boy I really hope we get this guy!

[notredomer23]

any more news on him?boy I really hope we get this guy!

lets not even joke about that, i got warning over on IE about that(which i didnt know at the time)
anyway..not to bash wells, but i think he might be one of the most overated recruits ever. come on a 6-5 210 pound LB. seems pretty small to me especially for his size

[Troy's Enterprise Pride]

lets not even joke about that, i got warning over on IE about that(which i didnt know at the time)
anyway..not to bash wells, but i think he might be one of the most overated recruits ever. come on a 6-5 210 pound LB. seems pretty small to me especially for his size

you think he's overrated because he is thin? give him some time in a collegiate trainers hands and he will be just fine. he has a great frame to which he can add weight, and he certainly will add it. rankings look at more than just the here and now -- they are projections about future productivity.

[irishunclebill]

Wells goes to FSU after earlier in the year professing his love for the Gators.

Is this another Urbie "wait a while" who said screw you and went elsewhere?
I certainly hope so.

[daytonirish]

Good luck to him @ free shoes. You would think that Urban and the rest of the boys at Fla. would realize that the way he treats recruits it's going to bite him in the a$$. These kids have to realize what he's up to and get tired real quick.

[notredomer23]

good luck with the creminoles

[IrishKnight1023]

Guess who's back.....back again.....Keith Wells is back......tell a friend. Seems like our staff REALLY wants one more tweener guy for this defense....

http://notredame.scout.com/a.z?s=109&p=2&c=712032&ssf=1&RequestedURL=http%3a%2f%2fnotredame.scout.com%2f2% 2f712032.html

[stew654]

Guess who's back.....back again.....Keith Wells is back......tell a friend. Seems like our staff REALLY wants one more tweener guy for this defense....

http://notredame.scout.com/a.z?s=109&p=2&c=712032&ssf=1&RequestedURL=http%3a%2f%2fnotredame.scout.com%2f2% 2f712032.html

I remember him being rated higher...wonder what the scouts saw that made him drop

[benneboy]

Guess who's back.....back again.....Keith Wells is back......tell a friend. Seems like our staff REALLY wants one more tweener guy for this defense....

http://notredame.scout.com/a.z?s=109&p=2&c=712032&ssf=1&RequestedURL=http%3a%2f%2fnotredame.scout.com%2f2% 2f712032.html

I noticed that also which is really starting to make me wonder. This is either a case of us not be confident in the possibility of Jones, Moore, or Perry or we are just trying to cover all of our bases since we have the extra time for recruiting this month.

[irishziggy]

I remember him being rated higher...wonder what the scouts saw that made him drop

pretty sure he was always a 4 star

[stew654]

pretty sure he was always a 4 star

He was at one point but now he has dropped way down
http://footballrecruiting.rivals.com/viewprospect.asp?pr_key=60946&sport=1

[irishunclebill]

He was at one point but now he has dropped way down
http://footballrecruiting.rivals.com/viewprospect.asp?pr_key=60946&sport=1

Wells was a 4 star on Rivals at one point and ranked as high as #143 in the Rivals 250, so they have significantly downgraded him to a 5.5RR three star, which actually puts him on the brink of a two star. Scout has maintained his 4 star status throughout with a ranking of around #175 on the Scout 300.

[Spiderman]

Whats Wells interest in us as of now? And whats with all of these DE's getting looked at? Do we not feel confident with someone?

[IrishKnight1023]

I don't know what confidence has to do with anything. If they aren't a verbal then we're going to go after everyone we want to that we feel can play at a high level at that position.

[NDisNCin2010]

IUB:
Will this FSU cheating scandal impact his recruitment in any way?
or Kyle Longs for that matter....?

[irishziggy]

IUB:
Will this FSU cheating scandal impact his recruitment in any way?
or Kyle Longs for that matter....?

Long's going to college for baseball right?

[irishunclebill]

Long's going to college for baseball right?

Right, it won't impact Long for that reason. Wells appeared to be on his way out before this happened, I don't know that this changes anything in that regard.

[GoldenShower]

Article about Keith Wells and potential trip to ND from the Atlanta Journal

The entry titled "Wells no longer a Florida State lock; Loftley down to two," and any of the comments about it.

Published on: 12/20/07 11:09 PM

Latest news
More Football recruiting...
Despite committing to Florida State in August, Gainesville defensive end Keith Wells said Thursday night he’s back in evaluation mode.

“I’m still verbally committed to Florida State, but at the same time I’m still taking visits to make sure Florida State is where I want to be,” Wells said.

“I’ve visited Ohio State and Auburn. I’ll visit Florida State in January, and possibly Tennessee and Notre Dame.”

The Fighting Irish haven’t yet extended a scholarship offer. But Wells believes he is only a visit away from receiving one from coach Charlie Weis’ staff.

“Notre Dame hasn’t offered, but [assistant] coach [Bill] Lewis wants to see some film of my season this year,” he said. “Hopefully, if my film is impressive they will offer.

“They may offer; they may not offer. I just want to get up there on my visit.”

Wells said he’s trying to keep an open mind when it comes to the academic scandal that rocked Tallahassee earlier this week.

“I think about it,” Wells admitted. “But it really doesn’t effect how I feel about Florida State because that’s only 20 or so individuals who decided to make that decision.

“I don’t think a school should be judged by a group of individuals who made a bad decision. But it does have me thinking ‘what is going on inside Florida State with what the recruits can’t see or the parents can’t see.’”

Wells, who says he will take five official visits prior to national signing day, said he gets mixed signals from his recruiting coach at FSU, Jody Allen, when they discuss him taking visits to other schools.

“I spoke to coach Allen after I visited Ohio State, and I don’t think they were too nervous then,” Wells said. “But I know before I took my visit to Ohio State he didn’t want me to go on any trip. I guess he was nervous then.

“We have three other defensive ends besides me committed, so I don’t think they’re too nervous. They just want to see what I’m going to do. I’ll make a final decision two weeks before signing day

[NDisNCin2010]

Long's going to college for baseball right?

thought he was going to college for an education? :cool:

J/K Ziggs...im sure Howie aint pleased with this academic cheating scandal..(football team today...baseball team tomorrow?)...dont think he sends all his kids to these prestigious private schools their whole lives only to have one chose a college that is in the middle of a academic scandal with no end in sight (BTW:if 24 were caught...how many did it and got away with it?...could it only have been limited to the football players?).

hell, there are a lot better bball schools anyway. (ND's BB team aint too shabby..look at Samardzjia).

i'm not saying this b/c i think long would come to ND...just saying maybe he goes to another school besides FSU.

[therizz]

Don't know if ND is involved at all but Keith Wells just officially decommitted from FSU.

[therizz]

Looks like he decommitted from FSU or OSU bucknuts.

[irishziggy]

thought he was going to college for an education? :cool:

J/K Ziggs...im sure Howie aint pleased with this academic cheating scandal..(football team today...baseball team tomorrow?)...dont think he sends all his kids to these prestigious private schools their whole lives only to have one chose a college that is in the middle of a academic scandal with no end in sight (BTW:if 24 were caught...how many did it and got away with it?...could it only have been limited to the football players?).

hell, there are a lot better bball schools anyway. (ND's BB team aint too shabby..look at Samardzjia).

i'm not saying this b/c i think long would come to ND...just saying maybe he goes to another school besides FSU.


it was more than just the football team, I know that much.

[irishunclebill]

ND has always been peripherally involved with Wells, but mostly from Keith's perspective. He has always said that he would visit ND if he received an offer first. ND's stance has been to take the visit and then they would discuss the offer. That ship has now sailed completely.

BTW, Wells might end up another Urbie January poach as he is planning on making three visits now, Tennessee, BBQLand, and possibly Miami on 2/2. Wells has been downgraded all the way to a 3 star on Rivals now, so it is kind of hard to believe that Urbie will accept a commit from another three star Georgia recruit, that is unless they have another Omar Hunter to offer as collateral.;)

[irishunclebill]

Looks like he decommitted from FSU or OSU bucknuts.

Are you saying he is committing to OSU?

[grungejunky]

my interpetation guess is that he is saying "on osu bucknuts", the message board.

[therizz]

Wells hasn't officially committed anywhere yet. But multiple people/sources on Buckeyeplanet believe he is a strong lean or silent to OSU.

[irishunclebill]

Wells has reportedly dropped his request that he be offered a schollie prior to visiting South Bend, and is talking about making a visit with his mom either this weekend or next. ND's position remains that they will consider offering him during or after the visit. I still would not be too certain that Wells is going to visit until he gets on campus, but it is starting to get interesting.

[irishunclebill]

Seeing more confirmation from other areas that Wells and ND have come to a meeting of the minds, at least enough for them to have a meeting at South Bend.

[NDisNCin2010]

Seeing more confirmation from other areas that Wells and ND have come to a meeting of the minds, at least enough for them to have a meeting at South Bend.

think this mean KLM writing is on the wall? (i.e. not coming to ND?)

[Flyin_Irish]

He needs to put some more muscle on that 6-5 frame. His bench is weak. Looks like this guy is a project.

[irishziggy]

this could def be the tweener that Corwin's been looking for since Sabino went elsewhere

[The New Louis]

I just watched all of his film and I think he could be a real nasty player in a year or two. What you can't teach is size and speed. The kids has the frame to really fill out on a college lifting program.

He may be undersized but watch his closing speed, how he uses his hands to keep online off of him and how he finishes off tackles. If we land this kid I think it will be a steal.

[irishunclebill]

think this mean KLM writing is on the wall? (i.e. not coming to ND?)

I don't think this has anything to do with the status of KLM. ND has long taken the position with Wells that if he took a visit, he might get an offer. Wells kept on saying he wanted the offer before he would visit. The only change here is that Wells blinked first.

[irishziggy]

I don't think this has anything to do with the status of KLM. ND has long taken the position with Wells that if he took a visit, he might get an offer. Wells kept on saying he wanted the offer before he would visit. The only change here is that Wells blinked first.


IUB, Wells would come in as that tweener CB's been looking for since Sabino wrote us off And KLM's a DE for the future, right?

[irishunclebill]

IUB, Wells would come in as that tweener CB's been looking for since Sabino wrote us off And KLM's a DE for the future, right?

That seems to be the consensus, but I think if KLM is the only one ND gets, that they still might try to see if he has the physical skills to adapt to the role they foresaw for Sabino. If not at least he would add depth to the DL. At this point in time, I think there is more of a chance that ND would get neither, than both, so I'm just hoping for at least one of them right now.

[IrishKnight1023]

I just watched his first Rivals video with him playing mostly standup defensive end/OLB and I was impressed. He's real quick and physical and he's real explosive. He's light, but I'd like to land him very much. He was saying back in May that he wanted an ND offer and even though they didn't ND was still in his top 7. I think ND is a school he's always been real attracted to and I wouldn't be suprised if he committed to us after his visit or on NSD.

[irishunclebill]

Wells has set up an Official Visit for ND on 2/2, where it is expected that he will get his Irish offer. He is cancelling his two other scheduled visits to Miami & Florida, and is now considering only OSU, Tennessee, and ND.

[NDgrandson]

Ok, lots of guys we were in on, we are no longer in on. So I turn my sights on Keith Wells and guage what his addition to the team would be. First, let me say, "I hope we get him." The one word most agree on and I am no different is... tweener.

Keith Wells 6'5" 211 lbs

Let's look at DEs
Kallen Wade - Best comparison IMO. He came in undersized and in a 3 - 4 he is more undersized. Wade has very long arms to go with his frame to boot. On the UND roster from last year Wade is listed as 6'5" 257 lbs. That's 46 lbs between the two. I know Wells will add weight (as will Wade), but when it comes to DE, Wells looks to be years away from the field and a lot of work in the weight room. Other comparitors...
Justin Brown 6'3" 261 lbs
Darrell Hand 6'3" 287 lbs
Paddy Mullen 6'3" 290 lbs
Ethan Johnson 6'4" 266 lbs

How about OLB?
Darius Fleming - Our #1 OLB coming in. I believe DF will be strong side and correct me if I am wrong, but weak side would play more of a pass rush role vs strong side would be in coverage more. ??? Darius is 6'3" 230 lbs.
Morrice Richardson 6'2" 244 lbs
Brian Smith 6'3" 233 lbs
Kerry Neal 6'2" 245 lbs
Scott Smith 6'4" 235 lbs
Kevin Washington 6'1" 241 lbs

OLB is where I see Wells. Is a 4.8 forty fast enough? I think it probably is.

The closest comparison to Wells though is Kamara at 6'5" 222 lbs. :D I think it is easier to add strength and weight than get faster.

[irishunclebill]

Ok, lots of guys we were in on, we are no longer in on. So I turn my sights on Keith Wells and guage what his addition to the team would be. First, let me say, "I hope we get him." The one word most agree on and I am no different is... tweener.

Keith Wells 6'5" 211 lbs

Let's look at DEs
Kallen Wade - Best comparison IMO. He came in undersized and in a 3 - 4 he is more undersized. Wade has very long arms to go with his frame to boot. On the UND roster from last year Wade is listed as 6'5" 257 lbs. That's 46 lbs between the two. I know Wells will add weight (as will Wade), but when it comes to DE, Wells looks to be years away from the field and a lot of work in the weight room. Other comparitors...
Justin Brown 6'3" 261 lbs
Darrell Hand 6'3" 287 lbs
Paddy Mullen 6'3" 290 lbs
Ethan Johnson 6'4" 266 lbs

How about OLB?
Darius Fleming - Our #1 OLB coming in. I believe DF will be strong side and correct me if I am wrong, but weak side would play more of a pass rush role vs strong side would be in coverage more. ??? Darius is 6'3" 230 lbs.
Morrice Richardson 6'2" 244 lbs
Brian Smith 6'3" 233 lbs
Kerry Neal 6'2" 245 lbs
Scott Smith 6'4" 235 lbs
Kevin Washington 6'1" 241 lbs

OLB is where I see Wells. Is a 4.8 forty fast enough? I think it probably is.

The closest comparison to Wells though is Kamara at 6'5" 222 lbs. :D I think it is easier to add strength and weight than get faster.

FYI- Wells claims to be up to 235 lbs. now and feels he has the frame to go to 260-270. Not sure about the first part, but based on what you can see of him on video, going to 260-270 is not a stretch. He would prefer to play DE because that is what he is most comfortable with, and at 260-270 that is where he would probably end up, at least in college. It will all depend on what adding that weight to his frame will do to his quickness, speed and strength. In any case, Wells is an intriguing prospect because more than just about all of the other guys CW/CB has looked at for this slot, (including Sabino) Wells looks to be able to play either the DE or the OLB in the 3-4 depending on how he develops physically. That is exactly the kind of flexibility that CW was hoping to have when he hired CB to install the 3-4 at ND.

[IrishR#1]

Well, recruiting is still going on. I assume he would be an OLB in the 3-4 since he plays standup DE and OLB. This would be a nice pickup. Pass rushing in the 3-4 is one of the most basic forms of football. Throw out stars. It is about the burst after the snap and tackling. Brian Smith and Kerry Neal were both better last year than their ratings indicated. If he has a good burst, he could be a star.

[irishziggy]

while i agree, Neal and Smith produced. It was still evident that our LBs cant cover the 3rd or 4th wr in a set or the TE. That's what these guys need to get better at not just pass rushing. That's the easy part of being a LB.

As for Wells, if you look at his pic that was on II yesterday, you can see he's def up around 235 lbs. He's in the 6'5-6'6 range and he looks like he's put on some weight. Hopefully he can get his legs bigger and add 10 to 15 more lbs by June.

[IrishR#1]

I've felt like if ND's OLBs can get pressure on the QB, they may be able to risk the slot guy getting catches. I want to see whoever starts at ILB opposite Crum to play some good pass coverage. I remember Smith's great INT against Boston College, so I think he can play in pass coverage. However, I think that the pressure on the QB can make him rush, and if Darrin Walls and Terrail Lambert can lock down the flanker and split end, the QB will have to force the ball to the tight end/slot receiver. That's where a good pass defending ILB would fit in. If he tries to throw it over the middle with a good pass defender there, interception.

Blitzing OLBs should be a priority. I feel like Notre Dame has good young talent everywhere else, but Smith and Neal need some good pass rushers behind him.

[IrishR#1]

Neal was recruitied as an inside linebacker, but he plays on the outside in the 3-4. He may be a good pass defender but never gets the chance. It isn't like the pass defense was the problem with the team last year. They owned Matt Ryan and almost every other QB they faced. Run defense is the main problem which may be why we picked up 3 ILBs to help stop the run.

[irishziggy]

http://youtube.com/watch?v=xdKV4hfMjt0&feature=related

go to the 7:30 mark, he wasnt covering anyone, the pass was thrown right to him.


As for the Neal comment. Neal was recruited as a DE/OLB, not a MLB. He played DE in high school.

[irishziggy]

and the pass defense stats were so good b/c every team ran all over us. our pass defense showed their true colors on key situations, like 3rd/4th down conversions and 2nd and 3rd & longs. Our defense was better than last year, but our offense hurt us from having them on the field all the time, but we still werent good. Our LBs couldnt cover anybody and either could Ambrose Wooden. Hopefully a better nickel back whether it be McNeil, Lambert, or Gray along with some of the younger guys stepping up will help that.

[irishdan123084]

i don't like ambrose wooden.

[NDgrandson]

i don't like ambrose wooden.

He did give up his share big plays but personally, he is a good man. I say man because he takes care of his older brother and mother. He is from Baltimore and endured his share of hard times. Through it all the only image of Wooden's face we can remember is a big smile. I like Ambrose Wooden. He loves Notre Dame and Notre Dame has changed the fate of his family's life. There is a nice article on this that came out a few months ago. I forget where it was.

[IrishKnight1023]

Yeah I watched a couple of his interviews during the summer and he seems like a real good guy. I could never bash him.

[irishdan123084]

i'm really good friends with his g/f and i've known the real ambrose wooden for 5 years now, so as much as i respect everyone's opinion on this website, i can't agree with you guys on this one. sorry to get off topic with keith.

[futurendcoach]

he is the dumb bitch that lost the usc game for us

[JDubbs]

I don't think any criticism of Ambrose Wooden by ND fans is a reflection of their opinion of the kid as a person but as a player. The Charlie Weis Era has really come without a signature win (hopefully USC this year, or the first bowl win in over a decade) and if not for 4th and 9 and the ball sailing past his ears, ND beats USC.

For me, Ambrose Wooden became the symbol of the lack of athleticism at skilled positions that used to be the case on the football team. I am glad to see the football player leave.

I appreciate the stories you guys have passed along. I would have always remembered him in a negative light if not for those stories. When you look around and see so many places selling their soul for football success, and forgetting to develop character and class, I am proud to see that ND has never lost sight of this.

Ambrose Wooden seems to be a man beyond his years, and more of a success than I could have imagined. Here's hoping the Irish will continue to recruit class individuals like Ambrose, I just hope that they are bigger, stronger , and faster.

[NDisNCin2010]

when Ambrose signed his LOI to come here, he became part of the ND Family. He will always be part of the ND Family. i wish him well in all he chooses to do in life.

[The New Louis]

and with that said back to keith wells

[The Jester]

For me, Ambrose Wooden became the symbol of the lack of athleticism at skilled positions that used to be the case on the football team.

This is not true. Wooden is not a symbol of the lack of athleticism at skill positions at Notre Dame. Rather, Wooden is a prime example of the lack of recruiting ability and acumen by Tyrone Willingham.

Ambrose Wooden should have been a receiver. That is the position he stood out playing in high school, and that is the position everyone expected him to play. However, Willingham either lacked to ability or the foresight to recruit many defensive backs. As a matter of fact, Zbikoswki was supposed to be a dual threat quarterback at the collegiate level, Micheal Richardson was a low ranking running back recruit in high school, and Ndukwe was a highly talented receiver as well. So you see, Our entire starting backfield in 2005 consisted of players who should have been playing on the other side of the ball. Yet, due to Willingham's unableness or unwillingness to bring in multiple defensive backs in recruiting classes, these players had to adapt to new positions which most of them probably weren't as good at. Of course, it would seem Zbikowski benefited the most from the switch.

The point is that Wooden wasn't very good at playing cornerback, but that doesn't mean he wasn't a good football player. Due to lack of depth at defensive back, Wooden never got a chance to develop his skills at the position he was best suited to play.

Oh, and for the record, fourth and nine was Zbikowski's fault (though it could have been Ndukwe's fault he was out of position).

[NDisNCin2010]

is there any place to get some film on Wells?
i have yet to see him in action...(reps for any links)

[irishunclebill]

is there any place to get some film on Wells?
i have yet to see him in action...(reps for any links)

You should be able to access his Rivals highlights.

http://notredame.rivals.com/video.asp?section=fbrecruit&pkey=60946&vidtype=prospect&vidid=94519

http://notredame.rivals.com/video.asp?section=fbrecruit&pkey=60946&vidtype=prospect&vidid=110764

http://notredame.rivals.com/video.asp?section=fbrecruit&pkey=60946&vidtype=prospect&vidid=115768

[NDisNCin2010]

thanks for the links i ould i only see the first one the other two wouldnt allow me, but i saw all i needed to see...coupel thoughts come to mind:
1) disruptive
2) quick
3) shakes off lineman pretty well
4) good instincts for getting to the ball
5) hits hard
6) runs through (doesnt reach for) ball carriers

he would be welcome addition to ND...he wore 44 in HS...maybe, like G-Man Justin Tuck we get that number back on the D side of the ball...

[bluedevilmcbx]

Taking a quick look it seems like he moves laterally pretty well and has enough speed to be flexible as a DE/OLB tweener depending on his development. I think that flexibility is definitely what we're after at this point.

[jcamp]

Any word on how his visit went? What date is he set to announce?

[daytonirish]

He doesn't visit till this weekend.

[futurendcoach]

Pay attention J camp, or everybody will thin k you are fuckin retarded. Idiot.

[irishziggy]

thanks for the links i ould i only see the first one the other two wouldnt allow me, but i saw all i needed to see...coupel thoughts come to mind:
1) disruptive
2) quick
3) shakes off lineman pretty well
4) good instincts for getting to the ball
5) hits hard
6) runs through (doesnt reach for) ball carriers

he would be welcome addition to ND...he wore 44 in HS...maybe, like G-Man Justin Tuck we get that number back on the D side of the ball...

totally agree. he was just tossing people around in the reel i saw. his closing speed seemed good too, great for a pass rush.

[RichardRiot]

Agree with NDGrandson that he shows considerable resemblance to Kallen Wade (whose film I really liked for the class of 2006). He is bigger coming out of HS than Kallen was.

[stew654]

I was hoping for good things from Kallen when he signed, hope he makes an impact this year! we definatly need suprises on the dline.

[Jstehly5511]

I couldn't agree more IrishDan. I like him, but thought he was one of the worst corners ND had. And this opinion has nothing to do with just the USC play he gave up. I just thought he was just a bad player.

[NDIRISH44]

He doesn't visit till this weekend.

is knox also coming this weekend?

[irishziggy]

is knox also coming this weekend?

yup :D

[NDIRISH44]

yup :D

sweet, thank you

[irishunclebill]

Despite, or in spite of, having to endure a day with McSweaterVest, Keith Wells has confirmed that he is still planning on taking his visit to ND this weekend. He will be on a plane to South Bend tomorrow morning. It does not hurt the Irish even a little bit that this Georgia kid is now visiting a school that will now have the former GT DC most likely being his position coach if he ends up Irish.

[NDgrandson]

Despite, or in spite of, having to endure a day with McSweaterVest, Keith Wells has confirmed that he is still planning on taking his visit to ND this weekend. He will be on a plane to South Bend tomorrow morning. It does not hurt the Irish even a little bit that this Georgia kid is now visiting a school that will now have the former GT DC most likely being his position coach if he ends up Irish.

Exactly.

[ab2cmiller]

I heard that last night flights from/to Fort Wayne such as O'Hare and Detroit were cancelled. Last evening they were saying that there was close to 6 hour delays to/from O'Hare on flights that hadn't been cancelled yet. I don't know if Keith has a direct flight to South Bend or not but at this point I'm really concerned that there is a chance he might not make it to South Bend due to weather.

[napoleonbuck]

Despite, or in spite of, having to endure a day with McSweaterVest, Keith Wells has confirmed that he is still planning on taking his visit to ND this weekend. He will be on a plane to South Bend tomorrow morning. It does not hurt the Irish even a little bit that this Georgia kid is now visiting a school that will now have the former GT DC most likely being his position coach if he ends up Irish.

Do you think it helps though?

I mean, he did eliminate GT early in the game when Tenuta was still there.

Tenuta is a great coach, but I don't think he's better than the defensive coaches at Ohio State or Tennessee, coaches who he's developed relationships with that he doesn't have with Tenuta.

Most interesting signing day for me in a while. Usually Ohio State is finished by signing day, but not this year. Lots of big names out there, Wells being one of the biggest.

[NDChatt]

Do you think it helps though?

I mean, he did eliminate GT early in the game when Tenuta was still there.

Tenuta is a great coach, but I don't think he's better than the defensive coaches at Ohio State or Tennessee, coaches who he's developed relationships with that he doesn't have with Tenuta.

Most interesting signing day for me in a while. Usually Ohio State is finished by signing day, but not this year. Lots of big names out there, Wells being one of the biggest.

There is so much crap going on at UT right now that I really think it could turn him off from going to UT.

[daytonirish]

I think it will help. Having a coach like Tenuta instead of Polian as your position coach. The thing I like even more is after the visit by Ohio State coaches he still is coming for his visit. I wasn't to sure he would still make the trip after the OSU visit yesterday. Not sure if it means anything, but we at least get the last shot.

[NDgrandson]

Do you think it helps though?

I mean, he did eliminate GT early in the game when Tenuta was still there.

Tenuta is a great coach, but I don't think he's better than the defensive coaches at Ohio State or Tennessee, coaches who he's developed relationships with that he doesn't have with Tenuta.

Most interesting signing day for me in a while. Usually Ohio State is finished by signing day, but not this year. Lots of big names out there, Wells being one of the biggest.

Yes, I think it helps.

We should keep in mind though that Wells is a more likely fit at DT rather than OLB. At least that is what I have gathered.

[notredomer23]

I hope you mean DE not DT

[stonebreakerwasgod]

Do you think it helps though?

I mean, he did eliminate GT early in the game when Tenuta was still there.

Tenuta is a great coach, but I don't think he's better than the defensive coaches at Ohio State or Tennessee, coaches who he's developed relationships with that he doesn't have with Tenuta.

Most interesting signing day for me in a while. Usually Ohio State is finished by signing day, but not this year. Lots of big names out there, Wells being one of the biggest.

ND (and tOSU) ain't exactly on par with GT. Sometimes even relationships don't trump the school, as coaches come and go.

[BigIrish]

ND (and tOSU) ain't exactly on par with GT. Sometimes even relationships don't trump the school, as coaches come and go.

Not to mention the fact that it had been common knowledge for some time that it was do or die for Gailey this year. that was plain to see and undoubtedly caused some recruits to pass without a second look.

ultimately, any time a kid visits your school on an official visit just three days before national signing day, things are looking good for that school. there's no guarantees, but ND has got to be in the driver's seat for the simple fact that this kid is giving them a shot this late in the process.

In fact, he probably wants to commit to the Irish...otherwise, why make the visit? the beautiful weather? it's more of an issue of whether or not Weis and co. will give him a reason to commit this weekend.

[irishunclebill]

Do you think it helps though?

I mean, he did eliminate GT early in the game when Tenuta was still there.

Tenuta is a great coach, but I don't think he's better than the defensive coaches at Ohio State or Tennessee, coaches who he's developed relationships with that he doesn't have with Tenuta.

Most interesting signing day for me in a while. Usually Ohio State is finished by signing day, but not this year. Lots of big names out there, Wells being one of the biggest.

Buck, IDK whether it helps, but just having the name Tenuta on board certainly does not hurt ND's chances, which are admittedly slim. Based on what we have heard of Tenuta as a recruiter, I doubt if he will actually have any contact with Wells this weekend anyway. Since he is not officially an ND coach, I'm not sure that he can. More than anything at this point in time Tenuta being hired shows that the ND Admin. is serious about hiring the best people they can get for the football program, and whether or not you think he is better or not than the OSU or Vol "D" coaches, the fact is that he is a high profile Defensive coach with a national reputation for excellence.

[irishunclebill]

Wells did make it to South Bend despite the weather.

Prior to his leaving for the ND trip, he announced that he will make his decision public from his school on Monday at 5 P.M.

[ndcufan]

is that good news that he'll make an announcement that quick after an official?

[irishunclebill]

is that good news that he'll make an announcement that quick after an official?

It does not hurt that it is right after an ND visit, but it would still be a big surprise if he picked the Irish. ND is definitely not in the lead going into the visit, but Wells is spending a lot of time on the ND campus this weekend, so you never know.

[napoleonbuck]

Buck, IDK whether it helps, but just having the name Tenuta on board certainly does not hurt ND's chances, which are admittedly slim. Based on what we have heard of Tenuta as a recruiter, I doubt if he will actually have any contact with Wells this weekend anyway. Since he is not officially an ND coach, I'm not sure that he can. More than anything at this point in time Tenuta being hired shows that the ND Admin. is serious about hiring the best people they can get for the football program, and whether or not you think he is better or not than the OSU or Vol "D" coaches, the fact is that he is a high profile Defensive coach with a national reputation for excellence.

I definitely agree about his coaching credentials. I'm just not sure with the timing and the lack of a relationship between Tenuta and Wells, how much of an impact this hire will actually have with regards to Wells' recruitment.

Maybe it's just optimistic thinking on my part.

[irishunclebill]

I definitely agree about his coaching credentials. I'm just not sure with the timing and the lack of a relationship between Tenuta and Wells, how much of an impact this hire will actually have with regards to Wells' recruitment.

Maybe it's just optimistic thinking on my part.

It seems like the latest update from your recruiting guys indicate they are more worried about UT than before. At this point, I think he still ends up in Columbus, but CW does have all weekend to work on him.

[irishunclebill]

It probably will not matter but Keith Wells did get his offer as promised for making an Official Visit to ND.

[BDirish4ever]

He visited, CW offered and we speculate and go insane waiting. Isn't recruiting fun!

[Sweeney6083]

Its the best

[and1john]

Sounds like the visit to ND went great. He's still undecided and still plans on making a decision within the next 24-36 hours. I feel better, but I think he's leaning to tOSU. I think we are number 2, though.

http://notredame.scout.com/2/725864.html From Mike Frank

http://notredame.scout.com/a.z?s=109&p=2&c=725871 From a Buckeyes site

[stonebreakerwasgod]

Wells is a long shot. His mom did not accompany him to SB, and it is believed that she favors tOSU. I give him a 30% chance personally.

[and1john]

Wells is a long shot. His mom did not accompany him to SB, and it is believed that she favors tOSU. I give him a 30% chance personally.

According to Keith, she DID go with him. Read the articles I posted...:confused:

[and1john]

Wells is a long shot. His mom did not accompany him to SB, and it is believed that she favors tOSU. I give him a 30% chance personally.

"Things went really well, and I was impressed with Notre Dame, as I knew I would be. My mom was with me and she felt the same way.

[stonebreakerwasgod]

That helps, I was told she actually wasn't there.

[and1john]

That helps, I was told she actually wasn't there.

Who did you hear that from? I like our chances a bit more since she was there.

[stonebreakerwasgod]

Someone who should know. He's still a tOSU lean. but I'd be glad to have him, in any case. I'm just not going to put out anything positive on him because it is such a reach.

[stonebreakerwasgod]

LOL

I just saw a blurb saying that his mom didn't make the trip. I luv the world of recruiting.

[and1john]

LOL

I just saw a blurb saying that his mom didn't make the trip. I luv the world of recruiting.

Haha...I would believe the Scout article...the quote comes from Keith himself.

[SoCalDomer]

my mom did not go with me on my visit to SB. and you can quote me on that.

(how's that for reliable source? now where are my meds i think i forgot to take them...)

[stonebreakerwasgod]

Thanx and1john, now I'm totally confused. LOL

Appreciate the help.

[ab2cmiller]

my mom did not go with me on my visit to SB. and you can quote me on that.

(how's that for reliable source? now where are my meds i think i forgot to take them...)

Just remember your goldhelmet friends when you make it to the pros SoCalDomer.

[Fishin'_Irish]

He said he fit in great with the rest of the player, which seems to be the norm for guys visiting ND nowadays.

[stonebreakerwasgod]

I've seen other info that Wells' mom was not in attendance. I saw where it was quoted where he stated his mom did accompany him. So I know that you were not mistaken in what you saw. Very strange.


I honestly don't think it matters in the end.

[stonebreakerwasgod]

For those who haven't heard.....Well's is expected to announce tomorrow afternoon. It's a three way race, and while the Irish are supposedly on par with the other two, I'm not feeling this one. Here's to me being wrong.

[NDgrandson]

At one point a few weeks ago it was one schollie for DT between KLM, Jones and Perry. With KLM in does that preclude Wells? I learned how to use that "preclude" word from Brian Billick.

[irishziggy]

For those who haven't heard.....Well's is expected to announce tomorrow afternoon. It's a three way race, and while the Irish are supposedly on par with the other two, I'm not feeling this one. Here's to me being wrong.

is 5pm still the announcement time?

[Fishin'_Irish]

is 5pm still the announcement time?

Yes.

[stonebreakerwasgod]

This year, nothing is a certainty.....I didn't see us going after Knox after Gray, but I'm glad we did. Like I said, he isn't going to be Irish anyway, IMO.

[ndcufan]

At one point a few weeks ago it was one schollie for DT between KLM, Jones and Perry. With KLM in does that preclude Wells? I learned how to use that "preclude" word from Brian Billick.

sorry ndgrandson, but obviously i don't have as sophisticated vocabulary as you do. i'm prognosticating (there's your $5 word) that KLM would be more of a lineman and wells would be more of an OLB, but that's strictly from what other people have posted/quoted. anyone else care to add (or better yet clarify) the positions that KLM and wells are being recruited to play?

[irishziggy]

This year, nothing is a certainty.....I didn't see us going after Knox after Gray, but I'm glad we did. Like I said, he isn't going to be Irish anyway, IMO.


you're talking about Wells right?

[Fishin'_Irish]

I'm no mind reader, but I'm pretty sure he is.

[stonebreakerwasgod]

Damn, sorry about that. Yes, I meant Wells...just using an example to help explain my thoughts. Long day here. Where is IUB?? LOL

[and1john]

http://notredame.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=769643

Wow! Wells rated the ND visit a 10! Maybe we have a better shot than we thought?

EDIT: He said he will announce either tomorrow or Tuesday, doesn't know for sure yet.

[NDgrandson]

Damn, sorry about that. Yes, I meant Wells...just using an example to help explain my thoughts. Long day here. Where is IUB?? LOL

Good question. Probably needs a break.

[ND Fanatic]

Wells has said that we pulled even with O$U and Tenn, he's supposed to announce tomorrow.

http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/shared-blogs/ajc/cfbrecruit/entries/2008/02/03/wells_still_uns.html

[stonebreakerwasgod]

It's hard to differentiate between niceties and genuine feelings. I'm sure he had a good time, I'm sure he was blown away...but he still needs to think about where he fits in, factor in his parents/coaches thoughts, distance, weather, schemes, coaches.......he's not gonna sleep at all tonite.

[robdog_5]

I think he will go back and forth between ND and OSU, but ultimately he will choose OSU.

[marv81s]

I think he will go back and forth between ND and OSU, but ultimately he will choose OSU.

agreed

they've been recruiting him much longer, so he'll go where he feels more comfortable

hats off to the staff for even getting ND in it this late in the game

[MirageSmack]

It's hard to differentiate between niceties and genuine feelings. I'm sure he had a good time, I'm sure he was blown away...but he still needs to think about where he fits in, factor in his parents/coaches thoughts, distance, weather, schemes, coaches.......he's not gonna sleep at all tonite.


I need help. I read that as "nice ti...." :eek: Because I can sure tell the difference myself. ;)

[irishunclebill]

At one point a few weeks ago it was one schollie for DT between KLM, Jones and Perry. With KLM in does that preclude Wells? I learned how to use that "preclude" word from Brian Billick.

That was before the DL depth became more depleted. Remember, Wells just picked up his offer yesterday. They would not have offered him knowing KLM was about to commit if they did not have a spot for him. Nobody really knows where KLM & Wells would end up at in the ND 3-4. One could end up being a DE, and one an OLB, both could end up as OLB's, or both could end up as DE's. The tweener slot has been open since Sabino picked OSU, and a DL slot opened up with Hunter's defection and the possible loss of Kuntz & Hand. Bottom line they would certainly take both of them, and with more room still left in this class,they would probably take another recruit who could possibly play on the DL if they had anybody else looking.

In the end, it probably will not mean a lot because Wells would still be a pretty big surprise if he picked the Irish.

[irishunclebill]

I have heard Wells will announce at noon tomorrow or wait until Tuesday. I'm not sure if this is the latest info but it came out on the AJC website tonight and says that he will announce at 11:30 tomorrow (Monday) morning.

http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/shared-blogs/ajc/cfbrecruit/entries/2008/02/03/wells_still_uns.html

Hey Stony did you ever find out if Keith's ma was with him at ND or not.:D

[ndcufan]

did anyone get any real insight on how his visit went (not "fine,"" well," or "beautiful campus"). rather how did his meetings w/ charlie, corwin, jon, and the team went?

[Fishin'_Irish]

Probably well, seeing as how he went from virtual OSU lock to fighting chance...

He said he fit right in with the players and coaches.

[IrishKnight1023]

I think he's just making it interesting before he publicly announcements for O$U like he told Tressel a few days ago.

[stonebreakerwasgod]

I believe a premium bucknut site had him quoted as saying his mom was with him......but all the other info I have seen is that she did not attend. How bout them apples, IUB...

[goldencock]

I got two two golden apples under my golden cock.

[and1john]

I got two two golden apples under my golden cock.

Nice first post...:cool:

[paddyman]

Nice first post...:cool:

i think it is safe to say we can expect great things from golden cock.

[The New Louis]

golden cock have you met golden shower?

[irishunclebill]

I believe a premium bucknut site had him quoted as saying his mom was with him......but all the other info I have seen is that she did not attend. How bout them apples, IUB...

That was a funny. I saw yesterday how you had to deal with that conflicting info, I thought you did a pretty good job.

BTW, they are still arguing that point in a lot of places this morning, no one seems to know for sure, which I find a bit amusing.

[NDgrandson]

I have heard Wells will announce at noon tomorrow or wait until Tuesday. I'm not sure if this is the latest info but it came out on the AJC website tonight and says that he will announce at 11:30 tomorrow (Monday) morning.http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/shared-blogs/ajc/cfbrecruit/entries/2008/02/03/wells_still_uns.html

Hey Stony did you ever find out if Keith's ma was with him at ND or not.:D

I'm online at Starbucks. What's up? One of my bro's here can PM me for my cell to deliver any late breaking news. I gotta sell some pills.

[irishziggy]

Noon is when he's announcing per J. Sapp

[ab2cmiller]

Per Rivals, he is a Buckeye

http://ohiostate.rivals.com/barrier_noentry.asp?sid=917&script=content.asp&cid=769872&fid=&tid=&mid=

[irishziggy]

OSU per BG

[Dayton_Domer]

Best of luck Keith!

[stonebreakerwasgod]

That was a funny. I saw yesterday how you had to deal with that conflicting info, I thought you did a pretty good job.

BTW, they are still arguing that point in a lot of places this morning, no one seems to know for sure, which I find a bit amusing.


Thanx man, just trying to fill in for the man. Now I can relax alot more.

[jfschellcrna]

dude, what is your deal?????????

[SoCalDomer]

1st - what's with the name. purposefully obscene isn't funny
2nd- we don't tell recruits f-them, even if they chose other schools.

[domehead]

kieth wells said we have good academics but ohio states football is better. F*ck him. He missed his chance to get on nds nuts, swingin back and forth while we drive it hard into a national championship, then we'll see what he's got to say


holy wow...

[notredomer23]

some one is banned

[IrishR#1]

Aw, footbag. Oh well. At least he didn't go to a common opponent.

[IrishKnight1023]

I don't like when a recruit choses another school than Notre Dame.

[daytonirish]

Well whoever banned that fool . THANK YOU. This site has stayed away from idiots like that and I for one hope our Mod's keep up the great work.

[NDgrandson]

Can we get the posts that quoted that trash deleted?

[Fishin'_Irish]

I'm glad I missed that. Personally, I thought Wells handled his recruitment extremely maturely, and I think most would agree with that. Although I'm disappointed we missed out on him, best of luck at OSU.

[irishunclebill]

LOI to OSU.

[SpanishElite]

from Buckeye Grove

June 21, 2010

OSU Press release

COLUMBUS, Ohio ? Duron Carter and Keith Wells will not be part of the Ohio State football team for the 2010 season, head coach Jim Tressel announced today.

Carter, a wide receiver from Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., caught 13 passes for 176 yards as a freshman last season. Wells, a defensive end from Gainesville, Ga., who redshirted the 2009 campaign, saw limited action for the Buckeyes as a freshman in 2008.