With so much of their 2010 recruiting class already wrapped up, the Penn State coaching staff can think ahead to their 2011 class. A name to keep in mind for next season is Darius Patton.
The 5-foot-10 and 170-pound Patton started at wide receiver for Pittsburgh (Pa.) Penn Hills during his sophomore season. Patton caught 35 passes for over 400 yards and five touchdowns.
Patton has moved to the Youngstown, Ohio, area and is attending Poland Seminary this season. He is playing cornerback and wide receiver and returning punts and kickoffs.
“It’s a lot different this year,” Patton said. “It’s an adjustment going from man-to-man to zone, but I’m adjusting real well.
“I’m looking forward to playing on both sides of the ball this season.”
Patton said Penn State, Pitt, Tennessee, Temple and Oregon are among the schools already showing interest.
“I want to play defensive back or wide receiver in college, but probably defensive back,” Patton said.
When asked which schools he is interested in, Patton said, “I like Pitt, West Virginia and Ohio State. I like Penn State a lot.”
Patton has been to Penn State, Pitt and Florida. He was in State College for a 7-on-7 camp last season.
“I saw the stadium and a lot of other stuff,” Patton said. “I like how everything is organized there. And I know a lot of people that go there.”
Kurelic’s Comment: Patton has a chance to be one of the top junior defensive backs in the state of Ohio this season. With his Pennsylvania background, he is definitely someone to keep in mind for Penn State’s next recruiting class.
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