Arizona lost one of its top 2011 football recruits when Corona del Sol defensive lineman Todd Peat Jr. decided on the eve of the National Signing Day to choose Nebraska over Arizona State University.
Peat told University of Nebraska head coach Bo Pelini late Tuesday that he would be signing his national letter of intent with the Cornhuskers. After analyzing over and over again the typical issues—playing time, location, academics, practice facilities and coaching—he said his decision came down to the talk he had with Nebraska’s coach last Friday night.
“My decision was ultimately determined by Coach Pelini’s home visit,” said Peat. “I knew from our conversation that he believed in me and my abilities. I felt like he would allow me to believe in myself and accomplish the things I know I can.”
Other aspects of the university had also caught Peat’s attention during his Nebraska visit in late November, he said.
“I enjoyed the campus, the college atmosphere, and the long-standing tradition that the University of Nebraska offers when I went on my official visit,” said Peat.
Peat formally announced his decision Feb. 2 at Johnson Elementary School in Mesa, where he attended grades K-6 before moving to west Chandler, which is in the Corona del Sol attendance boundaries. He wanted to honor the elementary school where he spent his early years by officially signing his letter of intent at Johnson.
After being recruited by several highly regarded academic universities and football programs, the 6-foot-3, 300-pound defensive tackle, touted as Arizona’s fifth best football prospect by ESPN.com and Scout.com, had narrowed his choices to Stanford, Oregon State, Nebraska and Arizona State University in early January.
Stanford got dropped off his list when head coach Jim Harbaugh decided to leave. Oregon State fell off next. As late as Tuesday morning, Peat had still not decided between hometown ASU and powerhouse Nebraska.
Although he admits it was a tough decision, especially because of family and friends he would be leaving behind, Peat said he knows he made the right choice.
“I just felt like Nebraska was the best fit for me,” said Peat.
“I think Nebraska will give me an opportunity to grow as a player and to reach my own personal goals in a successful program.”
For a football standout, his family and friends, a long-awaited day of decision finally arrives
