Stevenson talks Nebraska visit
The clock is ticking for 2015 four-star Dallas South Oak Cliff running back Jordan Stevenson.
After not being admitted into Wisconsin this past week, Stevenson has about a week to figure out his future plans. The new Nebraska staff led by secondary coach Brian Stewart and linebackers coach Trent Bray wasted no time making sure Stevenson knew there was a place for him in Lincoln.
Stevenson has already been academically cleared to NU, and he hopped on a plane Saturday night for a two-day official visit that ended Monday afternoon.
"It was good man, it was a good experience," Stevenson said of his trip to Lincoln. "I got to see the different things about the University first off academic wise and just how everything went. Also the athletic department is really good. It's a family unit. Everybody does get along. It was great.
"Really I got interest after the program reached out to me. I saw how important I was to them. I fell for Nebraska and I just really took the opportunity to go up there and visit."
Stevenson was hosted by New Orleans Edna Carr true freshman linebacker Tyrin Ferguson, who he referred to as his "brother." The two have a relationship that dates back earlier this year from playing in a high school all-star game together.
Head coach Mike Riley spent quite a bit of time with Stevenson this week in Lincoln as well. Riley was on his vacation down in Texas and came back early to be with Stevenson.
"He's a very good coach and he has a lot to offer," Stevenson said of Riley. "He's reaching out to help me and I really appreciate that from coach. He's a very good guy, very down to earth and he just wants to see his guys succeed."
Riley also had strong words of praise about how bad he would like to have Stevenson at Nebraska.
"When I talked to (Riley) he just said 'look man, we need you, you are a good kid and we have your best interest at heart,'" Stevenson said. "He said you can come in here as a true freshman and be a big impact to this team."
The timeline going forward is still up in the air for Stevenson. As of late Monday afternoon he does not have any other official visits scheduled, but there's always the chance that could change.
One thing though is certain - time is of the essence. A decision will be made by Stevenson in the coming days and no later than this week.
"I'm not for sure at this point, but it's a possibility," Stevenson said when asked if he'll take more visits. "I'm not sure what other schools I'd visit at this point. I have to go home and negotiate with my parents what my next move will be.
"I'll make my decision here in the next couple of days and everything should work out."
Stevenson compares his game and style to former Husker great Ameer Abdullah, who finished his career as NU's No. 2 all-time leading rusher.
"Ameer (Abdullah) was a very elusive guy," Stevenson said. "We are about the same size, no bigger. I'm just a faster version of Ameer. I look up to that being able to be an Ameer Abudllah type of guy. I'm more explosive and I plan on taking my game to the next level. From here on out I plan on building my own legacy."
Stevenson traveled to Lincoln on his own for the visit, so there has been some questions posed if that will play an impact.
"My mom supports me in any decision I make, as long as it's the right decision," Stevenson said. "When I get back home we are going to go over everything and see where we go from there.
"This week my decision will be made. It will be in the next couple of days. I'm not for sure though."
