Predicting Where Tee Shepard Lands on National Signing Day

Tee Shepard is one of the top DBs in the country and has been a Notre Dame commit for quite some time. But Shepard took a trip to Arizona State, which he enjoyed.

However, USC has made a big play for him the past few weeks and now Shepard appears torn between the cross-sectional rivals.

Let's take a stab at where he ends up.

Who Is Tee Shepard?

Shepard is a versatile back end defender from Fresno, CA that can play an array of spots for a secondary. However, he has not played football in a year because transfer details prevented him form playing as a senior.

At 6'0" and over 170 pounds, he can play free safety and corner. He shows the coverage skills of a corner, which is where he projects best. Shepard is a great athlete with quick feet and transition ability on the perimeter.

He's committed to Notre Dame, but has taken recent trips to Arizona State and USC.

Took Trip to USC December 17th

Shepard and his cousin, 4-star WR and Notre Dame pledge Deontay Greenberry, took a trip to USC on December 17th.

The pair were in town for the state championships and took a trip to SC to check things out while in town.

Shepard told Scout.com the weekend was great and he liked Los Angeles.

Notre Dame

Shepard has maintained throughout the process his love and loyalty to Notre Dame. He gave the Irish a commitment on March 2nd, as he was the initial pledge for the Irish's 2012 class.

Even though he's taken visits, the Irish have remained in good standing with Shepard and it's a huge boost that his cousin Greenberry is also scheduled to head to South Bend.

When Will a Decision Be Made?

Shepard is currently slated to participate in the Semper Fidelis Bowl on January 3rd. A platform will be available for him to make an announcement, but he tells Scout.com he will hold off until February 1st.

He claims he wants to do the "hat thing" and decide in that manner. Kirk Herbstreit might not like it, but don't expect a decision until National Signing Day.

Prediction

Notre Dame. USC is trying hard, but Shepard is going to Notre Dame.

Greenberry is going there and Shepard has been committed to the Irish since March. He has even said his heart lies with the Irish.

Expect to see a USC hat on the table and even an Arizona State hat. But, also expect Shepard to be wearing Notre Dame colors.