By Bryan Bloodworth
NORMAL – Illinois State’s football program figures to sign 18 to 22 players in this year’s recruiting class Wednesday on the first day of the spring signing period for high school seniors.
“We’re trying to close the class out and make sure everybody, who is supposed to sign, does sign and there are no surprises,” Spack said Tuesday. “So far so good, but you never know. Every year there is a surprise or two. We just hope it’s not with us.”
“Redbird Signing Day Party” will air live from 6 to 7 p.m. Wednesday from Hancock Stadium on WJBC 1230 AM and wjbc.com with Craig Bertsche, Ted Schmitz and Nick McClintock. The show is designed to give fans an insight of this year’s signing class.
Spack said the emphasis this year is linemen, particularly on the offensive side where the Redbirds lost all five of their starters from a year ago.
“Linemen and perimeter pass rushers are what we’re looking for,” added Spack. “It’s kind of a balanced class, but a little more tilted toward linemen.”
Spack said one area the Redbirds aren’t really recruiting is running back.
“We’re deep at running back, so we’re not looking for a back really to sign with this class unless it’s really an ‘oh my God guy,’” Spack continued. “We are probably going to hold a few back for transfers – late transfers, those being after spring ball – and see what their options are. We’re recruiting a couple of guys now, who are at their schools who are going to transfer, but they are playing the field.”
Bryan Bloodworth can be reached at [email protected]
