[Hank 91]

I think a big factor here is the overall jump the program has taken. When Harbaugh first arrived his theory in recruiting was to cast a wide net, not just geographically, as has always been the case, but also in the number of scholarships offered. Additionally, many more scholarships were offered earlier in the process than the elite schools. The hope was to identify and offer talented kids early, before the traditional powers were on to them, and hope the kids would be smitten by the early attention. (A notable misstep was with linebacker Jordan Zumwalt, an early Cardinal commit who then had a monster senior season, drew offers from a lot of other schools, then "defected" on Signing Day for UCLA. (For the record, he hasn't been missed.))

Shaw's staff in recent years has continued early contacts, specifically so they can be sure the kids are on the right academic path and are willing to take AP classes. But since they're dealing with four- and five-star targets, it isn't realistic to expect them all to jump at the first offer.

(I read a piece today about USC's stellar -- but small -- class, and the theory was floated that they've been able to get early commits because recruits know there won't necessarily be any slots open later in the game.)

Even though the number is smaller than it was at this point last year, Signing Day is still more than six months away. I think we'll be okay in the end.

[Hank 91]

I think a big factor here is the overall jump the program has taken. When Harbaugh first arrived his theory in recruiting was to cast a wide net, not just geographically, as has always been the case, but also in the number of scholarships offered. Additionally, many more scholarships were offered earlier in the process than the elite schools. The hope was to identify and offer talented kids early, before the traditional powers were on to them, and hope the kids would be smitten by the early attention. (A notable misstep was with linebacker Jordan Zumwalt, an early Cardinal commit who then had a monster senior season, drew offers from a lot of other schools, then "defected" on Signing Day for UCLA. (For the record, he hasn't been missed.))

Shaw's staff in recent years has continued early contacts, specifically so they can be sure the kids are on the right academic path and are willing to take AP classes. But since they're dealing with four- and five-star targets, it isn't realistic to expect them all to jump at the first offer.

(I read a piece today about USC's stellar -- but small -- class, and the theory was floated that they've been able to get early commits because recruits know there won't necessarily be any slots open later in the game.)

Even though the number is smaller than it was at this point last year, Signing Day is still more than six months away. I think we'll be okay in the end.