Five-Star QB Morgan Newton Commits to Kentucky, Adds to Loaded Class

Morgan Newton stood in front of a crowd at his school in Carmel, Indiana on Thursday.

The time was 10:30.  The day had come, rescheduled from Tuesday to Thursday due to the NFL's Colts.  It was time to commit.

Newton had just four teams to choose from.  What came out of his mouth was unexpected.

Five-star QB Morgan Newton chose the University of Kentucky over Clemson, Illinois, and Florida.

Newton is the second high-profile quarterback to commit to the Cats in two weeks, joining four-star Ryan Mossakowski from Texas.

Newton, a 6'4", 205-pounder, threw for 1,882 yards and 25 touchdowns while rushing for 753 yards and 11 touchdowns as a junior.

Newton said he chose Kentucky because he can step in and play immediately.  Dr. John Newton, Morgan's father, said that playing time was not the only reason and added that the Cats' pro-style offense and quarterbacks coach Randy Sanders helped his son's decision.

Coach Randy Sanders has coached several successful quarterbacks, such as former Wildcat and current New York Giant Andre' Woodson, and Colts quarterback Peyton Manning.

"We spent a lot of time with this decision," John Newton said.  "We really believe Kentucky is a place where Morgan can succeed individually and compete for championships."

Newton is ranked as the nation's seventh-best quarterback by Scout.com.

Kentucky already has commitments from Sam Simpson, ranked the country's second-best center by Scout.com; Qua Huzzle, a three-star linebacker; and Larry Warford, one of the nation's top 30 guards as ranked by Rivals.com.  Kentucky has 17 commitments, and 13 rate three stars or higher.

This is another step in recruiting the best class in school history.