The Nittany Lions’ recruiting net always extends to the state of Virginia. Year-in and year-out there are outstanding prospects the Lions pursue in that state.
It will be no different for the class of 2011. In fact, one of the top juniors from the state, Virginia Beach (Va.) Kempsville’s Travis Hughes, says he has a verbal scholarship offer from Penn State.
The 6-foot and 209-pound Hughes has been a varsity starter at both outside linebacker and running back since his freshman season.
The ESPNU 150 Watch List prospect made 50 plus tackles during his sophomore season. He had 12 sacks and intercepted two passes. Hughes also rushed for over 1,230 yards and had 15 touchdowns.
Through five games this season, Hughes leads the Virginia Beach-area with 541 yards rushing. However, he is being recruited as an outside linebacker.
“I’d say I have about five or six offers,” Hughes said. “Maryland, Virginia Tech, West Virginia, East Carolina, and Penn State verbally offered.
“Maryland offered in writing. West Virginia and Virginia Tech said I’ll get (the written offer) pretty soon.”
Hughes said he has been receiving quite a bit of mail from the Nittany Lions and hopes to get up to State College for Penn State’s football camp in the summer.
Hughes has known Penn State assistant coach Kermit Buggs for some time.
“Kermit Buggs used to live next door to my grandparents,” Hughes said. “I got the (Penn State) verbal offer through Coach Buggs.”
When asked to name the schools he is interested in, Hughes said, “Penn State is up there in my top five. I love Penn State. It’s a great linebacker school. I can’t wait to get up to Penn State. I’ve heard the atmosphere is electric.
“I love Maryland. My brother, Trenton Hughes, plays cornerback at Maryland. I like North Carolina, Virginia Tech, I love Clemson. My favorites I’d say are Penn State, Maryland and Clemson.”
Kurelic’s Comment: The Nittany Lions have long had success recruiting the state of Virginia. Hughes will be one of the best from the state in 2011 and is certainly a candidate for Joe Pa’s next recruiting class.
Lions offer Virginia junior
