The Nittany Lions have a commitment from one of the top running back prospects in the East, Silas Redd from Stamford (Conn.) King. They want to land one more super back to go with Redd and have their sights set on Marcus Lattimore from Duncan (S.C) Byrnes. Lattimore is the No. 10 prospect in the ESPNU 150.
However, as is common in recruiting circles, the Penn State staff is staying in touch with other prospects at the position as a back-up plan. One of those they are in contact with is Allen Jones from Youngstown (Ohio) Ursuline.
The 5-foot-10 and 197-pound Jones started the second half of his junior season and rushed for 1,200 yards and 20 touchdowns. Through four games this season, Jones has 628 yards and seven touchdowns.
Jones was in Beaver Stadium on Saturday night as the Nittany Lions took on Iowa.
“I was invited up there,” Jones said. “(The Penn State staff) sent me a letter.”
Jones said Jay Paterno stays in touch on a fairly consistent basis.
“I talk to (Paterno) every week or so,” Jones said.
When asked about the Penn State-Iowa game, Jones said, “It was a good game. I thought Penn State should have run the ball a little more. But it was exciting.”
Jones also attended the Penn State-Temple game last season.
In addition to Penn State, Jones is also interested in Purdue, Toledo, Bowling Green and Akron. He said he knows he is not at the top of Penn State’s list, but remains interested in the Nittany Lions.
Kurelic’s Comment: It is very unlikely Jones will wind up in this Penn State recruiting class. However, at least for the time being, he is someone that remains on the Nittany Lions’ radar screen.
Jones could be back-up plan
