College Football Recruiting 2012: Florida & the Top Contenders for Rushel Shell

Rushel Shell is one the top running back prospects in the country. However, what makes Shell more intriguing is that he has the skill set and size to come in and make some plays right off the bat as a true freshman.

Another interesting aspect about Shell is that he doesn't do many interviews, so his recruitment is a bit of a mystery. Is Florida in the race? What about Ohio State? Auburn? Who else?

Let's try to get some answers.

Who Is Rushel Shell?

Shell is a 5'11", 215-pound RB that not only has a solid, thick frame, but he also possesses great speed. He's a big back, but can also break off long runs.

He shows quick feet, a willingness to bang inside between the tackles and a burst to and through holes to get to the second level, while also possessing great quickness and jump-cutting ability to get to the edges.

Shell will be a multi-year starter in college and due to his size, run strength, instincts and great speed, I think he can get a good share of carries as a freshman.

Key Favorite No. 1: Pitt

I predicted a few months ago that Shell would end up at Pitt, and I'm sticking with it. He doesn't do much press, but Shell has gone on record to say that he does feel a connection with Todd Graham.

Hailing from Aliquippa, PA, Pitt is not far at all from home, and Shell could easily make some noise early for the Panthers.

Shell is said to be planning an October 14th decision, and Pitt is in great shape as it stands right now.

Key Favorite No. 2: Alabama

Way back in the spring, the Tide were just another school in the race for Shell. Then he Skyped with Nick Saban, and all of sudden 'Bama was thick on Shell. What happened?

According to Shell's high school coach, Dave Vestal, Nick Saban did an outstanding job of selling what Alabama has to offer both as team and as a university. 

So, while it is not truly known where the Tide stands, Alabama is in this thing.

Key Favorite No. 3: Florida

Ah yes, the Florida Gators. When Shell first began doing interviews this year, he would frequently mention Florida when asked about schools he liked early on.

With the Gators building such a stout recruiting class this year, it wouldn't be a shock to see UF be a prime contender for Shell. 

Though with commitments from RBs Mike Davis and Matt Jones, could that hinder the Gators' chances?

Key Favorite No. 4: Penn State

Penn State is on a roll this year, as it has just gotten commitments from top-tier players like DT Tommy Schutt, WR Eugene Lewis and DB Armani Reeves to make its total 16.

Each recruit is speaking volumes about the energy around the program right now and how JoePa shows no signs of stopping any time soon.

With Shell being the best player in the state and the Nittany Lions doing well this year in recruiting, there has to be at worst a mutual interest from both parties.

Others in the Race

Other favorites for Shell include Auburn, West Virginia, Ohio State, Virginia, Oregon and Tennessee.

With the mystery surrounding Shell's recruitment due to his lack of doing many interviews, any of these schools could be a favorite.

I still say he ends up at Pittsburgh, but we likely will have to wait until October 14th.