With the talent level in Pennsylvania not what it was once, it is imperative for the new Penn State coaching staff to retain the top in-state prospects. In 2012, the majority of the recruiting class hailed from Pennsylvania or bordering states, and that trend likely has no plans of dropping.
In 2013, one of the premier players in the Keystone State is Cedar Cliff HS tight end Adam Breneman, a name many are already familiar with because of his gaudy stats and 6'5" frame. Already holding verbal offers from some of the elite schools in the eastern part of the country, including Alabama, Florida State, Ohio State, Michigan, and many more, Breneman's recruitment will be one to watch closely.
What most fans don't know, though, is that Adam is also a dedicated student and very personable young man. In the first of many Class of 2013 interviews, we asked Adam to share where he was in the whole recruiting process, and which schools he was hearing from the most.
BSD: So how is the whole process unfolding for you? How many offers are you up to, who are you hearing from the most, and so on?
Adam Breneman: The process has been very exciting, but at the same time very stressful. Right now I'm trying to take it all in stride and not get too overwhelmed by it. This process is just such a huge blessing. I've gotten to meet some awesome people and see some awesome places. I thank God all the time for this opportunity he gave me.
I have about 30 offers now. Some of the schools that are recruiting me the hardest would be Notre Dame, Maryland, Michigan, Ohio State, Penn State, and Virginia.
BSD: Growing up a Penn State fan, is it difficult to separate your opinion of Penn State as a fan from that of a high profile tight end recruit?
AB: As many people already know, I grew up being a Penn State fan, looking up to Joe Paterno and loving Beaver Stadium. Penn State was what you could call my dream offer. However, at the end of the day I'm going to a school as a player and not as a fan. I have to find the best fit for me athletically, academically, and spiritually. Right now I really have no idea what school will be the best place for me.
BSD: Have you spoken with any of the new coaches at Penn State, and have they indicated how they would use you on the field?
AB: Coach Strollo has been to my school a few times to see me. He is a great guy and obviously a great coach. My family and I will be visiting PSU on the 27th of February and I'm really looking forward to meeting Coach O'Brien and talking more about the offense.
BSD: Any planned visits coming up soon? I know you've said in the past that you have a busy February planned, so who all do you plan on seeing?
AB: In February I will be visiting Maryland, Penn State, and Ohio State. I will also visit Notre Dame in March. Michigan, UNC, Northwestern, and Miami are also likely to get visits at some point.
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Stay connected to Black Shoe Diaries for future looks at some of the top Penn State targets in the Class of 2013. If there is someone you think we should be taking a look at, or if you know of someone in your area that is looking for exposure, please email.
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