From rivals
Gardena (CA) Junipero Serra High School 5-star LB John Houston wrapped up his Hurricane official visit today.
"It was an amazing trip," he said. "They showed me different things about the Miami Hurricanes, the U and the tradition and how good the coaching staff is."
He says attending the UM-FSU game was a highlight.
"That was an excellent experience," Houston said. "It was a good environment, everyone was hyped, it was loud. It was sold out, I liked it a lot."
Houston spent a lot of time with head coach Al Golden as well as line coach Jethro Franklin during the visit.
"Coach Golden, he said he wanted us (Houston's teammate Rasheem Green also visited) to be at Miami, said that I'd have the option to start early and have a big role in their program," Houston said. "Coach Franklin, he's a down-to-earth guy. He told me everything I needed to know, talked about the alumni, everything."
So where do the Canes fit into Houston's recruiting picture now?
"They're going to be pretty strong," he said. "I don't have anyone on top, am going on my visits. They'll be in there, though, I know that."
He's already visited Oregon and will take his final three visits to Arizona State, USC and Oklahoma.
"I'm announcing on signing day, that's the plan," Houston said.
Asked if distance is a factor, Houston said, "Not really, I'm not worried about distance, I'm worried about what school fits me and will make me a better man and athlete."
He says he and Green may attend the same school together "but we're not talking about that - we're looking for the school that fits each of us best as athletes."
Houston added that Green "also had a good time, enjoyed the visit just like I did."
Houston's host was Ufomba Kamalu.
"The players, all of them were great," Houston said. "They were real communicative, told me everything about the program. I was hanging out with Brad Kaaya, talking about how he made his decision to go to Miami and is loving it there."