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Guys, I talked with another State target for 2026, four-star Xavier McDonald. He's No. 65 in the latest Rivals100 for the class.
McDonald was just at Mississippi State a few weeks ago to catch a fall practice. He also visited practices at Ole Miss, Florida State, Auburn, LSU and UCF. With the Bulldogs, McDonald said he likes the direction the program is headed, specifically the offense. He also likes the proximity to home and his family. Coach-wise, McDonald said he talks mostly with assistant coach Chad Bumphis, though he does talk some with coach Jeff Lebby. McDonald said he really just likes the bond he has with both coaches and he feels like it's come quickly with Lebby. "Every time they see me they call my name. I like how that bond is there."
McDonald did have some good things to say about Ole Miss. And he particularly likes coach Lane Kiffin. But the school that to me is the clear leader here is Florida State. McDonald seems pretty enamored with the Noles. He likes the vibe and told me, "they’re different from most of these colleges." By that, he means the energy, excitement and just how he feels when he visits. McDonald also said his own coaches have told him to look for the coach that's different, that he gets a feel for. He told me about Florida State cpach Mike Norvell, "That's the coach."
No dates set, but this fall, McDonald said he wants to visit Mississippi State, Ole Miss, LSU and Mizzou. I'd be shocked if he wasn't back at Florida State, too. So honestly (and I'll always be honest), I think the Bulldogs are running third here. Still time, and kids can always change their minds. But I think FSU is in the lead, followed by Ole Miss, then State.
Full story coming.
Guys, I talked with another State target for 2026, four-star Xavier McDonald. He's No. 65 in the latest Rivals100 for the class.
McDonald did have some good things to say about Ole Miss. And he particularly likes coach Lane Kiffin. But the school that to me is the clear leader here is Florida State. McDonald seems pretty enamored with the Noles. He likes the vibe and told me, "they’re different from most of these colleges." By that, he means the energy, excitement and just how he feels when he visits. McDonald also said his own coaches have told him to look for the coach that's different, that he gets a feel for. He told me about Florida State cpach Mike Norvell, "That's the coach."
No dates set, but this fall, McDonald said he wants to visit Mississippi State, Ole Miss, LSU and Mizzou. I'd be shocked if he wasn't back at Florida State, too. So honestly (and I'll always be honest), I think the Bulldogs are running third here. Still time, and kids can always change their minds. But I think FSU is in the lead, followed by Ole Miss, then State.
Full story coming.
