Manatee RB - Mike Blakely

[2000bull]

What doesn't make sense is that it says he's homesick, but yet I'm seeing stories saying he still wants to play at an SEC school? I didn't know you could go further from home and be less home sick.  ???

[HappyHourHero]

Looks like he is focused on 3 schools according to Josh Newberg: USF, UNC, UCF.

Josh Newberg

@joshnewberg247 Josh Newberg

Former UF RB Mike Blakely focused on 3 #UNC #USF and #UCF http://ow.ly/4TWBY

From 247sports:

Running back Mike Blakely from Manatee High School enrolled early in January to play for the University Florida. However, before ever playing a single game for the Gators, Blakely abruptly asked coach Will Muschamp for a release.

Blakely has returned to his home town and is currently weighing his options.

According to sources close to the situation, the University of South Florida is the likely destination for the 5-foot-9, 195-pound running back. Also under consideration is North Carolina and Central Florida.

A decision for Blakely could come in the next week or two.

http://247sports.com/Article/Mike-Blakely-focusing-on-three-25522

[TBBull717]

Hell yes! I know it's not official but, hell yes!

[jasonb56]

What a backfield we could have in 2012!! wow... lets hope this happens...

[redfisher78]

If he wants immediate playing time, we may be too deep for him

[CPR]

If he wants immediate playing time, we may be too deep for him

ehhh, he would have to sit out a year regardless, so it's like a redshirt year. Then, I think Scott and Murray will only be there for 1 more year ahead of him (I could be wrong). Blakely would then be in the drivers seat as a sophmore, along with Ayecock. It really doesn't look as bad as you make it sound when you talk about depth. My only concern is what the other running backs are thinking right now with Skip bringing in Scott, Ayecock and potentially now Blakely. That can't feel good for players like Battles, Shaw, Marc and incoming recruit Willie Davis. I don't care though, when a player like Blakely may want to transfer to your program, you take him without hesitation. I swear though, if UCF winds up getting him..

[redfisher78]

Im not saying we wouldnt want him. Im saying he may look at our Running Back situation and think it is too deep. UCF needs a big time RB.

[SANJAY]

If he wants immediate playing time, we may be too deep for him

We have Murray and Scott both of whom have 2 years of eligibility left.  Aycock who has never carried the ball in D1.  Then Battles coming back from a significant knee injury.  Shaw who had grade issues.  There's a lot of bodies, but it doesn't seem that crowded to me as far as actual talent on the field.

Throw in that Blakely has to sit a year anyways and it is almost a non-issue.

[CReschk8]

The moment Blakely would step on campus he vaults to the top of the depth chart IMO. Just watch the Manatee vs. Plant game last year. He ran all over Plant and Wilder. Kids the real deal from what I've seen.

[Rocky77]

He would most likely take Battles place if does goes here. Shaw and Akcock are above him. He will be third string in 2012. Just because there is more experience above him.