247Sports
With 8 verbal commits so far, Syracuse has likely recruited a big chunk of its ’13 class. Fans are pumped to see how the already tight-knit group pans out on the field. But there are still dominoes that could fall either way for Doug Marrone. Since he’s wrapped up QB Zach Allen Рwho is already talking about the resurgence of Syracuse Football on Twitter - why not round out the class with some fresh targets for ZA to hit downfield in the future? Here are 3 realistic wide receivers SU can win to complete the ”Next Gen” football lineup that has everyone so excited.
Sean Avant/Miramar HS (Miramar, FL)/6’ 180lbs
Best trait: Hands
Notable Offers: WVU, Marshall, Wake Forest, Syracuse
With 32 catches for nearly 500 yards in ’11, Avant has developed into a premier target for Miramar. We don’t have to be reminded of the relationship SU has forged with Miramar HS:  Ri’Shard Anderson is from Miramar and Keon Lyn is an alum. SU can exploit that to land Avant late in the year (SU just sent an offer yesterday, according to Miramar’s twitter). ESPN’s notes on SA:
“Avant is a productive receiver prospect with good underneath quickness, speed, and pass-catching skills. Versatile and athletic with good ball skills. Has more than adequate height and length but is lean and in need of strength and bulk. Plays on the outside but projects best in the slot.”
In need of strength and bulk? That’s nothing a modern strength program with updated facilities can’t deliver on.
Dionte Taylor/University School of Nova South (Ft Lauderdale, FL)/6’ 167lbs
Best trait: Speed
Notable Offers: Missouri, Nebraska, BC, Louisville, Miami (OH), Wake Forest, Syracuse (Michigan has shown interest, but not offer)
Taylor is another South Florida gem who is drawing attention from big schools despite a two-star rating. With a 4.79 second 40-yard dash, he‚Äôs quick. With 34 grabs for 520 yards and 5 TDs a year ago, he packs a solid offensive punch as well. He’s stirring lots of late interest from big names like the Huskers and Mizzou. Avant may fit better in the slot, but Taylor is a certified vertical option that could make things mighty comfortable for a new QB in CNY. Powers are flocking, so SU would be wise to stay in touch.
Brian Lemelle/Bishop McDevitt HS (Harrisburg, PA)/5’11” 175lbs
Best traits: Catching in traffic, hands
Notable Offers: BC, Penn State, Nebraska, WVU, Rutgers, Iowa, Purdue, Cincinnati
The Keystone State has been kind to Syracuse of late, providing the other buzz-worthy QB prospect Austin Wilson. Lemelle is the No. 11 ranked player in the state, and his offer list backs it up. A 3-star guy who was named first team all-state for Class AAA, BL is the best receiver of this trio. He tallied 1,630 receiving yards for 15TDs last year alone, and has almost 3,000 yards in his career at Bishop McDervitt. ESPN scouts like what they see: 
“Lemelle is a highly productive player best suited on the outside or inside at the next level. Possesses competitive speed. Showed the ability to split the defense at times.”
It will be critical for Syracuse have success in the Big East starting tomorrow not only for the sake of its season, but because it’s in quite a few battles with other schools in the conference on Lemelle’s list. The move to the ACC, SU needs to prove its not only a better option than Rutgers and Cincy, but also ready to compete with Clemson and Florida State. It’s an uphill climb, but wins are going to be instrumental in getting key recruits like Lemelle. A guy with his skill level who is within reach of Syracuse’s recruiting territory should be a priority target.  
With just 4 offensive players and no wide receivers in the class so far, SU would benefit from snagging as many of these guys as possible to set up the future of the Orange WR corps. It seems strange that SU would mysteriously lose interest in WR Prentavious Morehead, but maybe it’s because Greg Adkins is pursuing one of these guys. Since all-time SU great Alec Lemon and premier weapon Marcus Sales are both turning the tassel after this year, it would do Marrone good to replenish the ranks.
Posted: Jake Moskwitz
