Having landed Florida C’yontai Lewis from the state of Alabama for the recruiting class of 2014, the Gators are back in the state trying to extend their run of good luck. Thursday, the Gators offered 2015 cornerback Maurice Smitherman who the coaches see as a tough cornerback.
“Coach (Brian) White offered me on Thursday night,” Smitherman said. “He was just saying that he loves what I do on the field and what I can bring to the table. He said that I can be a very physical cornerback and wants me.”
Although he’s from Alabama, a state that has produced four of the last five national champions, this was a dream offer for Smitherman who said this is what he was waiting for.
“I always wanted an offer from Florida since I was a little kid,” Smitherman said. “Florida has been a dream school since I was little and is definitely going to be in my top three when it comes down to the end. I’ve always wanted to be a Gator and do that Gator chomp.”
Smitherman’s love for Florida started during the golden years of Tim Tebow when the Gators won multiple championships.
“I just loved watching Florida play when Tim Tebow was there,” Smitherman said. “Coach (Urban) Meyer and Tebow built something special there during those years. They have won championships and are going to win more.”
Since he plays on the defensive side of the ball, Smitherman has played close attention to Will Muschamp’s defense and style of coaching.
“Coach Muschamp is a defensive back coach and I like that,” Smitherman said. “I love the way his defense plays hard and fast. His defense has been really good at Florida since he took over as the head coach there. He always has good cornerbacks. My favorite is Loucheiz Purifoy.”
Nick Saban and the Crimson Tide aren’t going to go away easy. Smith sees an opportunity in Tuscaloosa.
“Alabama is going to still factor because they are a big time school,” Smitherman said. “They will be up near the top with Florida too because they need defensive backs.”
A trip to Gainesville is something that Smitherman is looking forward to and he’s trying to make those plans now.
“I plan to visit Florida this summer or this spring,” Smitherman said. “I don’t want to rush things with any school though.”