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Voss has eyes on Crimson Tide

By IZZY GOULD
Published June 14, 2006

Alton Voss should know within days if he will walk in the cleats of Bart Starr and Joe Namath.

Gulf's prized passer participated in a morning workout Tuesday at Alabama, then spent some face time with Crimson Tide coach Mike Shula.

Voss hoped his performance and IQ for the game could land a scholarship offer on the spot.

It did not. Instead, Alabama will evaluate one more passer next week before making a decision.

Voss and Gulf coach Jay Fulmer were headed home late Tuesday hoping to make a pit stop at Auburn to meet with coaches, among them head coach Tommy Tuberville.

Voss got one offer Tuesday from Ohio via text message. He lists his choices in order: Alabama, N.C. State, Mississippi State, USF and Auburn.

The Tide is also considering Land O'Lakes quarterback Joe Weatherford, who returned from his second trip to Tuscaloosa, Ala., in two weeks.

"It's a tough decision for (Alabama)," Fulmer said. "They're only taking one quarterback this year. They've got to make sure they have the right guy. The quarterback coach (Dave Radar) feels like it's Alton and one other."

Fulmer's assessment of Voss was a morning full of crisp passing and fleet feet from the 6-foot-2, 215 pounder. Voss hit most of his receivers and spent the entire session in Radar's group.

"It really went well," Fulmer said. "He couldn't have done any more."

Time on the road only made the wait on Alabama's decision more frustrating.

Fulmer wants Voss to orally commit before fall practice so they can focus on a state title and limit the barrage of recruiting calls, letters and text messages.

"Coach Shula's time frame was maybe next week they'd let us know," Fulmer said. "They realize the stress this is putting on Gulf football. All this stuff is just a huge distraction."

Voss, who combined for more than 2,600 yards of offense and 25 touchdowns last season, sounded relaxed as he and Fulmer drove south, uncertain of where or how the night would end.

Still, there was optimism and understanding as Voss tried to make sense of the day.

"I understand it's a difficult decision," Voss said. "You can't rush it because it's a one-man position. They have to evaluate us. I'm waiting for their call.

"Hopefully I'm the one they offer."

[Last modified June 14, 2006, 07:14:59]