Three-star OL, Georgia State commit: Recruitment ‘never closed’

via @jay.fliks/Instagram

As in-state rivals, Georgia Southern and Georgia State tend to engage in a number of heated recruiting battles on an almost yearly basis.

Three-star Stockbridge (GA) offensive lineman Xavier Spikes committed to the Panthers early last month, but a subsequent offer from the Eagles has opened his eyes to other possibilities.

“Honestly, it does,” Spikes said when asked if Georgia Southern’s offer changes things. “As far as my recruitment being open, it was never closed.”

Georgia Southern has been on the radar of the 6-foot-4, 291-pound lineman for quite some time. As a Georgia native, Spikes has made a number of visits to Statesboro, most recently to camp with the program last month.

“I’ve loved it every time,” Spikes said of Statesboro. “The coaches and players all make it feel like family… The coaches are great guys and the campus and everything looks great. I can definitely see myself there.”

Spikes will return to Statesboro for a recruiting event in late July, but plans to wait until October to take an official visit. The Eagles will host Marshall and James Madison during the month.

As far as his relationship with the Eagles’ coaching staff goes, Spikes noted it was a strong one. Similarly to other recruits, the staff sees a lot of potential roles for the talented lineman.

“The (Georgia) Southern coaches have been excited about being able to really transform my body and my play and make me an all-around offensive lineman able to play all five positions,” Spikes said. “That really excites me because versatility is never a negative in any situation.”