Recruiting Update: Rodney Kinlaw
by Chris Horne, 12/9/02

Kinlaw Cancels Visit, Reschedules Another

Outstanding Stratford (Goose Creek, SC) running back prospect Rodney Kinlaw was unable to take his trip to Penn State last weekend due to bad weather. One day later, he has rescheduled that visit, canceling a previously scheduled trip to NC State.

"I have cancelled the NC State visit for January 17," said Kinlaw. "I hope to visit Penn State on the 17th now."

Kinlaw will keep his visits to Clemson on January 10 and Virginia Tech on January 24. He may also visit South Carolina, but has nothing set up at this time. Kinlaw�s official visits will most likely be the deciding factor in determining which school he chooses in the end.

"The visits are definitely going to help me make my decision," said Kinlaw, who will likely choose between the four schools mentioned above. "All of the schools are about even right now. I don't have a leader."

The Virginia Tech coaches first laid eyes on Kinlaw earlier this year, during the team�s summer football camp. It was there that Kinlaw displayed his impressive array of skills, and his performance earned him an immediate scholarship offer from Coach Beamer.

"[The camp] experience was great," said Kinlaw, who runs a 4.35 in the 40. "The whole atmosphere was pretty good."

During the camp, Kinlaw also got a chance to see the Virginia Tech campus. The experience propelled the Hokies immediately into his top five, and, for several reasons, they have stayed there.

"Virginia Tech has a great atmosphere," said Kinlaw, who is being recruited by running backs coach Billy Hite. "I like the coaching staff and the program is an up-and-coming program."

For his senior season, Kinlaw rushed for 1,783 yards and 30 touchdowns. At 5-10, 177 pounds, he uses his speed, vision, and versatility to become one of the most dangerous players on the field. Kinlaw is also a tough back, as he could see himself being an every-down player on the collegiate level.

"I am probably more of a versatile player," said Kinlaw. "But I know I can carry the load for an entire game as well."

Following his terrific season, Kinlaw was named to the NC-SC Shrine Bowl roster. He called the achievement "a terrific honor. They could have invited anyone."

The talented prospect wants to wait until signing day to make his decision. The official visits will be a key for the dynamic back. Virginia Tech is recruiting him just as hard if not harder than any other team in his top four. It will be a close decision.


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