Peter from Burnt Orange Nation, SB Nation's amazing Texas Longhorns blog, recently posted his thoughts on the situation regarding John Brantley and his commitment to the 'Horns - stating that he felt recent comments by Brantley's father were pointing towards a change of mind. As it turns out Peter was right, as the 5-star QB announced his intentions to sign with the Florida Gators, de-committing from Texas and going to a school in which he has many ties to.
Texas has already received a commitment from a 5-star QB this year, John Chiles. This could have been a deciding factor for Brantley, even though location among other things could have played a role in his change of mind. The Gators also have received a commitment from a very good quarterback, 4-star Cameron Newton out of Atlanta.
The ties to the Florida program are very evident for Brantley as well. The Brantley name is a very recognizable one for Gator fans, as John's uncle Scot and dad John both played football at UF in the 70s. Another link to the program would be Brantley's high school football coach, Kerwin Bell - a former quarterback at UF. It seemed like Florida would be a great fit for Brantley from the start, and many Gator fans felt that UF was in the running for the quarterback even when he committed to the 'Horns a while back.
A similar situation occured last recruiting season between Florida and Texas, only that the roles were reversed. Highly rated QB prospect Jevon Snead de-committed from Florida and headed to Texas following the news of Tim Tebow's intentions of playing for the Gators.
And it doesn't stop there...4-star RB recruit Bo Williams made his intentions to sign with the Gators known today as well. Williams is rated the #19 RB prospect out of Oakland Park, FL, and is currently 1 of 2 running backs (alongside Lakeland star Chris Rainey) on the commit list for this signing class.
What an awesome day for the Gators football program. Obviously things can change with recruits and their decisions, but it's safe to say Coach Meyer and Co. are building yet another great class in Gainesville.