2006 class tabbed "best ever"
By Darrell Copeland III
The Collegian
Pat Hill |
There are many things to be excited about if you are a fan of the Fresno State football team, thanks to the highly-thought of 2006 recruiting class.
In fact, it would’ve been impossible to try and count the number of times Bulldogs coach Pat Hill said the word excited during the press conference.
“This class is really exciting for me,” Hill said.
Hill’s press conference Wednesday featured detailed descriptions of all 19 recruits, 10 of which hail from the Valley. Of the 15 Valley football recruits to have been drafted into the NFL, 11 come by way of Fresno State. That should be good news to recruits such as Taylor Smith, Charlie Robbins and Will Smith of Buchanan High, Bullard High and Sunnyside High, respectively.
Signing day didn’t come without any drama however. Jamel Hamler, a receiver out of San Leandro High School, provided Fresno State and its coaches with the thrill of the day.
Hamler originally committed to the Bulldogs early, but later decided to give his verbal commitment to Oregon after taking a visit to Eugene.
According to Hill, when it came down to a crunch time decision for Hamler, he stood up, took off his jacket, and unveiled a Fresno State T-shirt, re-committing himself to the Bulldogs.
“Our office was going nuts,” Hill said.
Bulldog fans should get used to the name Hamler, as Hill says he should be a big part of the Bulldog offense for years to come.
“You’re gonna see a lot of Jamel Hamler over the next few years,” Hill said.
But the well isn’t dry after Hamler, there is plenty more talent to go along with Hamler.
It is believed that running back Anthony Harding out of Turlock has never been caught from behind, while both Damion Owens and A.J. Jefferson are being touted as the next great Fresno State cornerbacks.
After committing early to Fresno State, running back Lonyae Miller of Fontana never took another visit despite heavy efforts from big-time BCS schools.
“He had Pac- 10 offers and never took another visit,” Hill said. “That shows a lot of character.”
There’s no doubt this class should be productive, especially with the commitment it takes to be a Bulldog.
“The kids all know the plan, and they all chose to follow it,” Hill said.
And of course, that has Hill excited.
“We’re really excited about this class.”
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