Minnetonka (MN) standout James Farrow verbally committed to Virginia Tech on Thursday, the day he made his first ever visit to Blacksburg. The 6-0, 175-pound rising senior is being recruited by Virginia Tech to play cornerback.
“He called me twice yesterday,” Minnetonka head coach Dave Nelson said. “The first time, he called to ask for my thoughts and my opinion on some things. The second time, he called me to tell me he committed.”
Michigan State, West Virginia and Wisconsin (no offer) were the other finalists for Farrow, who originally committed to the University of Minnesota this past spring. He would withdraw his commitment to the Gophers, and Virginia Tech eventually came through with a scholarship offer last month.
On Wednesday, Farrow made an unofficial visit to West Virginia before heading to Virginia Tech Wednesday night. He met with Tech’s coaches, watched a practice and toured the campus on Thursday. By day’s end, he had given Tech its 11th commitment of the 2011 class and the third this month, joining linebacker Michael Cole and offensive lineman Jake Goins.
“I think he really liked the staff, Coach Beamer, the feeling he had down there,” Nelson said. “He watched a practice. I think he just felt at home. And I think he is a kid who wants to get away from home. A lot of kids want to stay close, but he wants to get away.”
Farrow started at cornerback the entire 2009 season, saw action at wide receiver later on in this season. He served as his team’s kick and punt returner as well, making a splash with kick and punt return scores in his first ever game on the varsity level. He averaged 46 yards per kick return and returned three kicks for scores. He averaged 15 yards per punt return as well.
Prior to Thursday’s visit, Farrow told TechSideline.com that Virginia Tech was indeed pursuing him as a cornerback. Tech now has two 2011 commitments at the position, with Farrow joining H.D. Woodson (Washington, D.C.) standout Adeboye Aromire.
“I’m almost positive they want me as a corner,” the Minnesota prep star said. “They really like my frame for the position.”
Coach Nelson said, “He is a cornerback with nice size. He has good instincts. He has a lot of room to get bigger, so he has a nice frame. He has long arms and a good reach. He has the perfect frame for a corner. And he has the speed.”
Stay tuned to TSL for much more, including comments from the star prospect on his decision.
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