Gator Country

This past weekend the Gators took a step towards filling a big need for the Class of 2014 by offering a big, powerful defensive tackle.

Brooklyn (N.Y.) Abraham Lincoln defensive tackle Thomas Holley, picked up a Florida offer on Wednesday after he was told to call Florida.

“I was told to call coach (Will) Muschamp,” Holley said. “When I called he said that he wanted me to be a Gator and that he looked forward to me visiting Florida so that he could meet me in person and that he was extending an offer to me.”

Holley says he will use this offer as motivation. He wants to continue to work hard and get better after such a big offer.

The 6-foot-4, 285-pound Holley has been picking up offers from several big named schools, but Holley has yet to even play 10 football games in his life.

“I have only played eight games of football ever,” Holley said. “I have always played basketball, but last summer I started working out with some football players and decide to give it a try, and once I did, I loved it. I think in college, I’ll just play football, because it’s tough to play both and manage your time.”

With Holley being a basketball player for much of his life, he doesn’t know much about the Florida football program. Holley said he intends to change that when he comes to visit.

“I definitely plan to visit after basketball in March or April,” Holley said. “I know they have good coaches and they have my major, which is criminal justice. They have always had a good program and good education. Florida is also hot so it gets me away from the cold weather.”

Holley played defensive tackle last season but this year he expects to play both defensive tackle and full back.

About the author

Andrew Spivey

Andrew always knew he wanted to be involved with sports in some capacity. He began by coaching high school football for six years before deciding to pursue a career in journalism. While coaching, he was a part of two state semifinal teams in the state of Alabama. Given his past coaching experience, he figured covering recruiting would be a perfect fit. He began his career as an intern for Rivals.com, covering University of Florida football recruiting. After interning with Rivals for six months, he joined the Gator Country family as a recruiting analyst. Andrew enjoys spending his free time on the golf course and watching his beloved Atlanta Braves. Follow him on Twitter at @AndrewSpiveyGC.

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