Armwood's Smith makes long-awaited pick: Auburn

By JOE SMITH, Times Staff Writer
Published January 20, 2008

---

SEFFNER - Armwood senior Eric Smith's college choice was the best kept secret in the South the past seven days.

Smith, one of the nation's top-rated fullback prospects, had been torn for weeks between his favorites, Auburn and Clemson. The 5-foot-11, 227-pound bruiser kept in suspense more than 30 orange-clad friends, family and coaches who packed his press conference Saturday at Beef O'Brady's.

But shortly after Smith, donning an orange sweater befitting both schools' colors, pulled on an Auburn hat, he admitted he had made his commitment to Auburn on an official visit last Saturday.

"I felt like Auburn had a family atmosphere," Smith said. "When I was up there, coach (Eddie) Gran's daughter called (sophomore running back) Ben Tate her brother, and that moment got to me. I can be her brother, too."

Smith also felt he could make an impact right away at Auburn, which shuffles in several backs, especially in passing situations. Smith, who rushed for more than 1,200 yards last season, "can catch like a pro," Hawks coach Sean Callahan said. "He can catch the ball anywhere."

A three-year Hawks starter, Smith has been the face of the Armwood program in recent years, leading them to the Class 4A state final in 2005 and state semis last season. Smith said he was "ready to commit" to Clemson after his campus visit Nov. 10; but in the past two months, the Clemson coaches hadn't called, and Auburn made him feel at home.

"I'm very comfortable with my decision," Smith said. "I felt it was crystal clear."

Joe Smith can be reached at joesmith@sptimes.com or at (813) 310-9024.