Tyler Boyd to Pittsburgh: Panthers Land Top-Ranked Football Recruit

Deciding where to play college football wasn't a decision that came easy for Tyler Boyd, ranked as the 35th-best wide receiver prospect in the country by 247 Sports.

Boyd told ESPN's Jared Shanker a few weeks ago that he was certain he wouldn't be ready to make a decision by January 5:

"

It's still dated on [Jan. 5] but still thinking if I should commit or not. It's a decision I'm not ready for. It's still Michigan State, Penn State, Rutgers, Arizona, West Virginia and Pitt...If I had a No. 1, I'd be deciding on Jan. 5.

"

But after weighing all of his options, Boyd has finally made a decision, according to Scout.com's Brandon Huffman. 

"

Clairton (Pa.) receiver Tyler Boyd has committed to Pittsburgh, the first player to announce here at the U.S. Army Bowl...

— Brandon Huffman (@BrandonHuffman) January 5, 2013"

A versatile player, the 6'2", 185-pound Boyd made his presence felt in all aspects of the game for Clairton High School in Clairton, Penn.

Boyd split time between running back and wide receiver when on offense, played a hybrid corner/safety role on defense and was Clairton's primary punt and kick returner.

He lost the first game that he ever played at Clairton—and that was it. Boyd finished his career on a 63-game winning streak, the longest in state history, winning four consecutive state titles.

In the Class A Championship Game, which Clairton won over Dunmore by a score of 20-0, Boyd ran for 117 yards and a touchdown on 20 carries, caught three passes for 50 yards and added an interception for good measure.

Boyd holds another record, breaking the WPIAL career touchdown record of 110, previously held by Pitt's Rushel Shell, at the end of November.

A tremendous athlete, Boyd's motions are fluid and he has excellent hands, showing an ability to catch the ball out of the backfield or when split out wide.

His route running needs some refinement, but Boyd has excellent footwork and the burst needed to get past the second level of opposing defenses.

Boyd has the ability to step in and contribute both on offense and special teams for Pitt as a freshman.