All-Star Coach Talks About Davis, Corley

Earlier this month, the Florida Gators were well represented on the East Squad’s defensive line at the US Army All-American Bowl in San Antonio. Future Gators Torrey Davis and Sidell Corley spent a week under the tutelage of Robert Prunty, the well-regarded coach from Hargrave Military Academy. Coach Prunty shared some thoughts with Gator Country about the two UF commitments.

Every year Coach Prunty’s roster is dotted with some of the best talent in the country. The Chatham, Virginia prep school is known for its big time football and its ability to get kids in good academic shape for the next level. When approached near the end of the practice week leading up to the game, he was more than willing to talk about two of his favorite players among the defensive line.

Corley started the week very strong before cramping issues hampered him in practice. On day one of practice, the big defensive end from Mobile’s McGill-Toolen was able to use his quickness to beat slower offensive tackles and his big time power to beat an unbalanced lineman to the backfield on several drills. Prunty fell in love with Corley’s versatility.

“Corley is a guy that can play defensive end or tackle,” Coach Prunty said. “You look at him and you have to love his body. He runs well. He is not only a defensive end but could play tackle and the three-technique. If you are a coach and recruiting him, you have to be very excited. I really think he can be special.”

Corley had a terrific attitude, even through injuries that made him one of the team favorites. Coach Prunty took notice and immediately spotted a leader from the 6-4, 260-pounder.

“The thing I like the most is his teammates love him and he is very coachable,” Prunty said. “His parents did a great job. I think he plays with good leverage, is aggressive at the point of attack and uses his hands well. There are eight outstanding kids out here and he has had a great week with all of them. Once he gets where he is going (in college) he just needs to continue on like everyone and continue the weights.”

The defensive tackle spots on the East were something else to watch. Marvin Austin, Joseph Barksdale, and Torrey Davis are three mammoth individuals that know how to move for their size. Davis was particularly impressive with his quick feet. According to Prunty, Davis is more than meets the eye

“When you look at Torrey, he doesn’t look like much,” said Prunty of the Seffner Armwood five-star tackle. “When you see him play, he is off the charts. He had an outstanding week and will start on Saturday. His footwork is magnificent. It is a God-given ability.”

Davis isn’t the most chiseled prospect and maybe that is why he looks to be so special in the future. A little work in the weight room and this 6-5, 285 pounder may be unstoppable.

“Torrey just needs to get in the weight room and define his body more,” Prunty said. “Don’t get me wrong, his motor is as good as anyone out here. He has an exceptional motor.”

The Gators currently have seven US Army All-American commitments from the 2007 class. Corley, Davis, quarterback John Brantley, running back Chris Rainey, tight end Aaron Hernandez, offensive lineman James Wilson, and linebacker/safety Lorenzo Edwards form the core of a class that looks to finish strong and possibly be the best class in Gator history.

The two linemen are key cogs and big time needs for the Gators as they try and defend their National Championship with a team that will have lost five prominent players among the defensive line. If their play in San Antonio was any indication of their ability, the Gators will be in good hands.