Memphis prospects rising..

The city of Memphis and always seems to produce the major college talent and this year has been no different. Prospects like Barry Brunetti, Keiwone Malone, Harrison Jones, Cortez Bowen, Ferlando Bohanna, O.C. Brown, Fred Harvey and Jonathan Brown have either committed to BCS conference schools or were considered BCS level prospects. A few other prospects in the area are also of BCS level, though grades or lack of playing experience seems to be stunting their opportunities.

Two prospects who appear to be emerging on the radar however are White Station quarterback/athlete Anthony Hayes and receiver Julian Burton.

Hayes (6-foot-2, 225-pounds) was a three-year starter at tight end for the Spartans prior to this season but moved to quarterback and has led White Station to the Class 6A state title game. A skilled athlete with good mobility and solid frame, Hayes won the Mr.Football Award for the state's best Class 6A back of the year, accounting for 36 touchdowns. While Hayes has thrown for a ton of yards this year, some believe he could project better as a defensive player and schools like Ole Miss and Arkansas have already been involved. Don't be surprised if Vanderbilt gets involved as well as he might be exactly what VU is looking for in a linebacker.

Burton (5-foot-8, 175-pounds) has been Hayes top target for the year, catching 21 touchdown passes. Possibly one of the state's most underrated playmakers, Burton has outstanding feet and solid quickness. On film, he may remind people of Warren Norman or Zac Stacy with his ability make people miss in open space. Programs like Memphis, Arkansas State and others have shown interest in the speedster, but he may get bigger looks with his play this past month.