Channing Ward to Ole Miss: Why He Could Be the SEC's Next Star Defender

I was a bit shocked to read and find out what Channing Ward plans to announce at the Under Armour game. 

Ward has consistently seemed keen on Auburn, Ole Miss, Alabama, Mississippi State and LSU. I've always felt it would be tough to get Ward out of his home state of Mississippi, but LSU, Auburn and 'Bama have been strong.

However, as I predicted, Ward has made his decision and Ole Miss has won his services.

Who Is Channing Ward?

Ward is a 6'4", 240-pound pass-rushing specialist who could play OLB in a 3-4 scheme. He has good athleticism and plays well with his hands.

I was impressed with the thickness of Ward's frame tonight at the game as it looks like he's more than 240 pounds. 

He shows a burst at the snap and bendability. What really makes Ward special is knowing that his hands can be weapons. Most rushers just try to outrun blockers and get stuck when engaged. Ward can get free.

I liken him to Bryan Thomas of the New York Jets.

Why Ole Miss?

Big coup for Hugh Freeze as he shows he can recruit in his own state, which is the first lesson in recruiting. Ward mentioned to ESPN that playing with his brother and the feeling that the Rebel program was "home" is what sealed the deal.

He spurned Alabama, LSU, Auburn and Mississippi State to head to Oxford.

What Ward Will Do in the SEC

Ward is going be lights out in the SEC, as we all know the pride of the conference is defense and athleticism/speed. Well, Ward has that and then some.

His 6'4" frame allows him to stay clean during his rush, in which he uses a quick first step to jump on top OLs. Ward is also powerful enough to sit and anchor vs. OTs and TEs to set the edges and has hand power to disengage and free up.

He flashes a burst to close and finish on QBs and will play the run with toughness. Oh, right, Ward can also play some underneath coverage as a zone defender. 

He fits in the SEC well.