Marshall will welcome two 2017 official visitors this weekend, both from the JUCO ranks.
Ezekiel Rose (Rivals Profile)
Rose is a 6’3, 270-pound defensive lineman for EMCC. He originally played for Clarksdale High School in Clarksdale, Mississippi. As a sophomore, Rose is exceptional in rushing the passer. His size and surprising quickness allow him to pressure the quarterback off the edge. At 270 pounds, Rose could even be used in some third-down situations as a nose guard. On the season (ten games), Rose has accounted for 35 tackles (8.5 TFL), 6.5 sacks, two pass break-ups and two forced fumbles. Rose is a mid-year graduate and would have three years to play two at Marshall.
Kereon Merrell (Rivals Profile)
Merrell is a 5-11, 175-pound defensive back for DCCC. He originally played for Dooly County High School in Vienna, Georgia. As a freshman, Merrell is an excellent cover corner and the best on Marshall’s board in my opinion. He has very fluid hips and uses his hands as well as any corner I’ve seen film in this season. Merrell would provide instant depth at the next level. I’d like to see him add a little weight, but considering he has three years left to play, that shouldn’t be a problem. On the season (11 games), Merrell has 26 tackles (1.5 TFL’s), six pass breakups, and two interceptions. Merrell is a mid-year graduate and would have three years to play three at Marshall.
Follow-ups from last weekend's visits:
*** While all three official visitors enjoyed their time in Huntington it looks like getting them to sign with MU will be an uphill battle for Doc Holliday and his staff.
*** Donyae Moody has been in heavy contact with the coaching staff at Ole Miss and the Rebels are on the verge of offering the Hartnell CC star. If they do, expect Moody to sign with the SEC West school.
*** Josh Allen had an in-home visit from Iowa State earlier this week and appears to be leaning towards signing with the Cyclones.
*** Alex Bush has been tough to get a hold of (which is never a good sign) since visiting MU. TCU recently offered Bush and we're told he's intrigued by the offer.
*** Roster Updates
Deon-Tay McManus - The word surrounding McManus is that he will not return to Marshall for his senior season. In a situation similar to Corey Tindal, we've heard rumors that McManus will "declare" for the NFL. Like Tindal, McManus' age is playing a role in his decision as he'll turn 24 in 2017.
Davon Durant - Herdnation has learned Durant will in fact be with the program in 2017. Durant's 2016 season was a major disappointment but the senior-to-be is supremely talented and there's a chance the light bulb will come on next year - which would obviously be a good thing for Chuck Heater's defense.
Ezekiel Rose (Rivals Profile)
Rose is a 6’3, 270-pound defensive lineman for EMCC. He originally played for Clarksdale High School in Clarksdale, Mississippi. As a sophomore, Rose is exceptional in rushing the passer. His size and surprising quickness allow him to pressure the quarterback off the edge. At 270 pounds, Rose could even be used in some third-down situations as a nose guard. On the season (ten games), Rose has accounted for 35 tackles (8.5 TFL), 6.5 sacks, two pass break-ups and two forced fumbles. Rose is a mid-year graduate and would have three years to play two at Marshall.
Kereon Merrell (Rivals Profile)
Merrell is a 5-11, 175-pound defensive back for DCCC. He originally played for Dooly County High School in Vienna, Georgia. As a freshman, Merrell is an excellent cover corner and the best on Marshall’s board in my opinion. He has very fluid hips and uses his hands as well as any corner I’ve seen film in this season. Merrell would provide instant depth at the next level. I’d like to see him add a little weight, but considering he has three years left to play, that shouldn’t be a problem. On the season (11 games), Merrell has 26 tackles (1.5 TFL’s), six pass breakups, and two interceptions. Merrell is a mid-year graduate and would have three years to play three at Marshall.
Follow-ups from last weekend's visits:
*** While all three official visitors enjoyed their time in Huntington it looks like getting them to sign with MU will be an uphill battle for Doc Holliday and his staff.
*** Donyae Moody has been in heavy contact with the coaching staff at Ole Miss and the Rebels are on the verge of offering the Hartnell CC star. If they do, expect Moody to sign with the SEC West school.
*** Josh Allen had an in-home visit from Iowa State earlier this week and appears to be leaning towards signing with the Cyclones.
*** Alex Bush has been tough to get a hold of (which is never a good sign) since visiting MU. TCU recently offered Bush and we're told he's intrigued by the offer.
*** Roster Updates
Deon-Tay McManus - The word surrounding McManus is that he will not return to Marshall for his senior season. In a situation similar to Corey Tindal, we've heard rumors that McManus will "declare" for the NFL. Like Tindal, McManus' age is playing a role in his decision as he'll turn 24 in 2017.
Davon Durant - Herdnation has learned Durant will in fact be with the program in 2017. Durant's 2016 season was a major disappointment but the senior-to-be is supremely talented and there's a chance the light bulb will come on next year - which would obviously be a good thing for Chuck Heater's defense.
