College Football Recruiting: A Quick Word to Recruits

We fans of college football tend to get caught up in our teams' prospects.

We tend to look at the young men coming to our programs in terms of how they will help our team.

There is another side of this issue that all recruits would be wise to take into consideration.

Most universities can provide a good education. Most degrees are widely accepted and will certainly make one's life better. I think we can agree for most universities education is their very lifeblood.

One thing to consider: How many of the football players that start out at the university actually graduate? If you are one of the players that fall into the vast majority that is not likely to play on Sunday, this could be the single most important point to consider.

If you happen to be a player with aspirations for the NFL, how many players from your position go to the NFL from this program? If you are a great running back, how many running backs have moved up from the program you are considering? If you are a linebacker, how many linebackers have gone to the NFL from this program?

You need to take one more step though. You need to look at how successful these players were after reaching the NFL. Getting to the NFL is only part of the battle. Having a great career there is the goal.

When choosing the team and university you will sign to, fit needs to be of paramount importance. If you are a pro-style quarterback, do you want to sign up with a spread-type offense? If you are a running back, do you want to sign up with a pass-oriented offense?

Do not think coaches will change the norm for you. They might say they are going to change their usual plans to emphasize your particular skill. They might even intend to keep that promise. These promises simply never work out. A coach will do what he knows best. It gives him the best chance of winning. He is not going to change what he knows for you.

Look at how many players have been in trouble with the law from this program. You do not want to find yourself caught up in bad company. If there are several players that have been arrested from the program, it is no coincidence. 

Look at how many players have transferred off the team. If there is a high rate, this could mean that life is not so good at this program.

We as college football fans wish all of the recruits going to all of our favorite teams the best of luck in this important week. Please go out and make the right decision for your future. If you try and fail at this, transfer as soon as possible. It is your life, and you must make the best of it.