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via Scout
Eleven SU prospects visited the Hill this past weekend and the Orange reeled in just one commit. But don’t be fooled, as it’ll feel like multiple Treevon Praters are all over the gridiron.
The addition of the versatile CB/S/WR makes it 17 commitments for the Class of 2014 recruiting class.
The visit must have wowed Prater, as he technically flips his “soft verbal” commitment with Western Michigan to join the SU class. Prater was one of many soaking in Syracuse-Pittsburgh hoops at the Dome Saturday. Improvements to the program, specifically new facilities, really open the eyes of recruits once they make their way on campus. ESPN ranks Prater the 45th best player in Illinois. His presence should be immediately felt in the Loud House, as his ability to play several positions gives him the shot to make an impact right away.
Last fall at East Saint Louis High School, Prater saw time mostly in the secondary. As always, the defensive backfield serves as a priority on the recruiting front. The 6’2”, 180-pound Prater provides an extra option at those positions as well as experiences at both cornerback and safety. Scooping up guys who have contributed at both spots really stands out to the coaching staff.  Scott Shafer and DB coach Fred Reed probably have a projected plan for the Illinois native to utilize his strengths. 
On the subject of the hard-nosed Shafer and his Illinois roots, the last two recruits to pledge Orange that hail from the Prairie State. Prater and DE Chris Slayton back up Syracuse’s strong ties with Illinois. Shafer’s invaluable connections strike again, but what can’t be forgotten is the rest of the staff helps keeps these ties tight. Orange defensive line coach Tim Daoust coached a secondary back in 2007 until 2009 with what team? Those West Michigan Broncos.
Interesting to hear if Daoust chipped in on the effort to land the athletic Prater. Regardless, you have to love the framework Shafer continues to lay with the state and that’s only moving forward.
It doesn’t look like the Orange has to hit panic time this winter season. Last year Syracuse scrambled desperately to put together its 2013 class after Doug Marrone left for the Buffalo Bills. The pressure on Shafer and George McDonaldhas dropped immensely this recruiting season now 17 guys currently on board. Rivals awarded SU the 74th rank for the class a year ago. Shafer slowly but surely is making progress: two weeks from National Signing Day, the program currently sits at 62nd.
Give the “A-Word” Prater a follow on Twitter, @BOOM#5.
His numbers easily back his handle title up. Prater recorded 76 total tackles and racked up seven interceptions. On top of that, he accumulated an average of 31 yards off each INT. Throw in two sacks as well during his senior stint. Offensively, Prater caught four touchdowns and tallied over 300 yards receiving.
Prater’s undoubtedly a widely, diverse athlete that intends to make his presence known at Syracuse quickly. Don’t blink twice, as at times you’ll feel like there’s more than one Treevon Prater out on the field. BOOM#5 goes the dynamite.
Posted by: Brendan Glasheen 
