N.C. State assembles talented and balanced football class

We thought we’d hit a few key points concerning coach Tom O’Brien’s latest group:

KEY RECRUIT:
Massive offensive tackle Robert Crisp, one of the best in the country
at his position and No.2 on our list. A 6-foot-7, 300-pound beast who
has clobbered some of the country’s best OLs at combines and all-star
games.

KEY SURPRISE: Keep an eye on Shrine Bowl defensive tackle Thomas Teal, whose 6-2, 325-pound bulk should fit well in N.C. State’s defensive schemes. Teal showed remarkable quickness during the week of Shrine practices, and will make his presence felt in Raleigh.

KEY STEAL: Quarterback Tyler Brosius of Waynesville Tuscola, who had committed to Virginia early but switched when the Wolfpack, his favorite team growing up, came calling with an offer.

KEY REMAINING TARGET: Running back Mustafa Greene of Irmo (S.C.) High. The second-best RB in South Carolina, Greene is visiting Raleigh this weekend. The Wolfpack and Rutgers are his leaders, but Georgia and Auburn
are also sniffing around.The program has room for a couple more players
if necessary, but the staff feels good about the group in place.

GOALS FOR THE CLASS:
Strengthen the program at offensive line and safety, and add as much
speed as possible. Consider them met. Kids like WR Tony Creecy and RB
Tobias Palmer are burners. DB David Amerson (No.7 on our NC List) can
play S or CB without a problem, and will be a factor.

BOTTOM LINE: Well done, and not quite finished yet.

--Stan Olson