Oozing with athleticism and speed, the state of Florida will be the destination for hundreds of college footaball coaches across the country--year in, year out.

With their trip to Florida comes the hope they can land an ultra-talented playmaker who can infuse their roster with speed and athleticism.

One such prospect this year is Glades Central wide receiver Davonte Allen, who happens to be related to Marshall running backs coach Jajuan Seider.

Coach Seider has extensive ties to the state of Florida and has already begun using those to his advantage. Thus far, he's reeled in five verbal commitments from the state of Florida for the class of 2011.

The question is will Allen help add to coach Seider's already dizzying numbers in his home state?

Boasting nine scholarship offers from across the country Allen figures to be a tough catch for the Herd.

One of the most recent articles about the three-star wide receiver said that he had narrowed his top two college choices to South Florida and West Virginia.

Is that still the case?


"No, I think Marshall is at the top right now too, because I liked it when I visited up there."

Allen attended Marshall's 2010 Showtime Showcase Camp and worked out, but did not perform any of the tests.

What did the former Glades Day standout like the most about Marshall when he was visiting?

"Probably the way the coaches react to the players. The type of relationship they have with the players--it's a strong connection that they have between the two (of them)."

The standout receiver's lead recruiter is none other than MU's ace recruiter when it comes to the Sunshine state, running backs coach Jajuan Seider.

"I like what I've seen from him. He always talks about playing time, how he'll take care of me, and all of that stuff up at Marshall."

What school is he planning on taking official visits?

"Probably South Florida and West Virginia. Both of those schools."

The ultra-talented receiver took the time to discuss each school.

On what he likes about South Florida:

"Well, South Florida, they're having a rebuilding period and they have a young quarterback, B.J. Daniels. I like the way they play."

On what he likes about West Virginia:

"West Virginia, I liked them when Jajuan(Seider) was there as a recruiting coach and Coach (Lonnie) Galloway took over. Now he's recruiting me and I pretty much like him as well."

So his top three are Marshall, West Virginia, and South Florida in no particular order?

"No, no particular order," said Allen.

When does he expect to make a final decision with his college recruitment?

"Probably in the middle of the season or at the end of the season. I don't know yet."

What kinds of things is the standout receiver working on for the upcoming football season at Glades Central?

"I was working on my route running ability and separation off the ball. That's about it."

How are his grades in the classroom?

"I've got good grades. I have all honors classes right now. I've got my (test) scores out of the way and pretty much just (focusing on) playing football."

The standout receiver hauled in 22 catches for 352 yards and four touchdowns last year during the regular season.

In the playoffs, he kicked his game up another notch, snagging eight passes for 216 yards in leading Glades Day to the Class 1B state crown.

This fall, Allen will suit up for Glades Central.

He made the decision to transfer to Glades Central back in February of 2010 in order to play against stronger competition.

Allen joins four-star wide receiver Kelvin Benjamin to form one of the more dynamic receiving duos in the state of Florida this fall.

...More... To continue reading this article you must be a member. Sign Up Now for a FREE Trial