re: 5* DT Maason Smith discussion

Making the Case: Five-star DT Maason Smith

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Five-star defensive tackle Maason Smith has a final five - and there is a significant SEC feel to the list.

LSU, Alabama, Florida, Miami and Georgia made the cut for the Houma (La.) Terrebonne standout and there are definitely some significant things to watch as Smith works closer to a decision.

USC was cut from the list, which eliminated the possibility of a package deal for Smith and close friend Korey Foreman to play for the Trojans. That possibility is still very much in play at LSU, where Foreman has visited twice and the Tigers could be considered the front-runner for Smith as well.

Based on history alone, LSU has to like its chances. Smith is the top-ranked player in the state of Louisiana and every No. 1 prospect from that state has gone to LSU since Landon Collins in the 2012 recruiting class.

Analysts and publishers from the Rivals network take a closer look at where one of the most sought-after defensive linemen in the country will land.

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GEORGIA

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"If he weren't in Louisiana and by proxy frequently at LSU, I'd feel really strongly about Georgia's chances with Smith. They've prioritized him heavily and have kept communication consistent. What's hamstringing them, however, is the lack of face-to-face interaction and ability for an in-person visit.

"He made his way to Athens for the first time at the end of this summer and seemed quite impressed with the offerings, but the familiarity of LSU and the in-state pull is something that can never be discounted. That's even moreso the case in the age of COVID, when we expect players to rely even more heavily on established relationships. The Bulldogs will push to get him back to Athens again before his decision, and that could help to sway things back into their direction somewhat. Still, for now, it's hard to see anywhere but LSU being the pick for a multitude of reasons." - Jake Reuse, UGASports.com

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LSU

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"After talking to multiple sources and following Smith's recruitment closely over the last year, it seems like LSU is the team to beat here. Smith to LSU almost makes too much sense. The Tigers are his in-state team. Head coach Ed Orgeron is a former DL coach and has coached some big-time stars on the DL in the past, such as Dwayne Johnson and Warren Sapp, to name a few. Plus, Orgeron grew up around the same Bayou Region of the state that Smith is from. Smith has been to LSU's campus for games and camps more times than any other university. And LSU is notorious for sending defensive players into the NFL. You add all that up and it's going to be difficult for another to come and pull Smith out of Louisiana." - Julie Boudwin, TigerDetails.com

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Do we have a legit shot with him or are we runnning third?

26 spots - 22 commits = 4.

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Many were sure Sage Ryan was an LSU lock.

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LSU 247 people aren't reliable

If he saw how our DTs get pushed around and crushed at the point of attack this season he's got to figure he can walk in and grab PT early. Damn LSU for having a shitty defense and taking that selling point away from us!

I would not waste my emotion on this one, Gumps.

Vidic is one angry gump.

Smith warm up picture from this past weekend

Welp Called it early georgia will not be getting foreman