A-Oku

by Sean Keeley on Jan 30, 2009 12:59 PM EST

The possibility that David Oku will spurn Tennessee for Syracuse still seems a little far-fetched, even if the guy who recruited him jumped ship. I mean, I can understand wanting to follow the guy you like, but if you're Rivals #1-rated running back in the nation, do you really take the chance on a ~~rebuilding~~ rejuvenating program like SU over an SEC school?

Young David is on record saying “[Syracuse] are definitely in consideration" but that could also just be kind words for Stan. Besides, he's still taking trips to see other schools, like the one he's taking this weekend to Auburn. On paper, SU doesn't stack up.

But...The Dangerfield Division emailed me with an interesting thought. Oku wants to play and he wants to play now. He wants a sure thing. If he goes to Tennessee, surely he's got competition. And Auburn? Well they just got a commitment from RB Anthony Gulley. Competing with guys ahead of you is one thing but does Oku really want to compete with guys in his year for playing time?

If he were to come to SU, Oku will likely be the only running back in his year worth noting. And while there are some guys ahead of him, none of them are "locked in" as the go-to guy in 2009. His chances for playing, and even starting, are exponentially higher at SU than at Tennessee or Auburn.

Oku could turn around tomorrow and give his full commitment to Tennessee and that will be that. But if you're looking for a good reason to think we might have a real shot with him...there it is.

Update: Donnie Webb noted today that Oku "may not make his decision until after national letter-of-intent signing day on Wednesday."

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Im just happy to be considered.

Its like a friday night at the bar. SU has been down on its luck. Isnt very attractive and sure isnt buying patron shots for everyone. However, with a bit of new found confidence, we approached the hottest girl in there and she DIDNT SHOOT US DOWN! We are just happy to be getting talked to. No expectations of closing.

This has inspired me to shamelessly run game on hotties tonight.

by ryanwk628 on Jan 30, 2009 1:24 PM EST reply actions

Maybe if #44 was not retired, he could come here and defend the legacy but it’s down to choosing a rebuilding program in the SEC or a rebuilding program in the Big East and the SEC has better coverage and attention nationally. That said, if Marrone gets Oku, isn’t that worth a 5 year contract extension already?

by Orange Chuck on Jan 30, 2009 2:33 PM EST reply actions

Hang on a Second

I’m as pumped as anyone that the kid is even being considered – but running back is one of the few spots on this team where there is talent.

Carter was very good as a freshman, and off too a decent start last year until injuries and Greg got him
Antwon bailey has an incredible burst – ask Notre Dame
Hougue is an NFL sized power back – if he stays on offense and
Averin Collier was the best RB in NYS at a senior in HS – he’s got 4 years of eligibity left
So while there are no studs, its not like Oku is a linebacker and there is a desperate need.

Do I want him – hell yes. Would he walk in and play – I’m not so sure.

by Russianator on Jan 30, 2009 2:35 PM EST reply actions

We have talent

and some of those guys will do well, but do any of them make you think you’ll see Curtis Brinkley numbers again for sure? We’re deep at RB but it doesn’t hurt anyone to add the #1 available RB.

by Sean Keeley on Jan 30, 2009 2:53 PM EST up reply actions

As Sean said, it really wouldn't hurt

And my guess is he would play right away. Maybe not in a full time starting role, but as a member of a running back committee (which, unlike QB by committee, actually seems to work). And I feel like, if he were to come, the actual importance of the coup in getting him at all would overshadow how soon he played. And to some extent, rightly so.

by NOLACuse on Jan 30, 2009 3:14 PM EST up reply actions