Decision Looms for Jordan McFadden

Jordan McFadden is nearing a decision. The 6'4", 280 pound, long-armed, offensive lineman who can dunk says he's likely to commit within the next couple of weeks.

"I know Georgia Tech has made a tremendous pitch, I don't see him going there, but you never know," said Dorman HS head coach David Gutshall. "I think it's really down to Virginia Tech and Duke."

McFadden recently announced a top group of Virginia Tech, Duke, Rutgers, and Michigan State. The former two programs have an edge for his services due to proximity, and while McFadden admits the Hokies are recruiting him the hardest, Gutshall notes the Blue Devils have been no slouch down the stretch. Though Tech is well positioned.

"Their academics are pretty good," said McFadden. "It's some good ACC football, and they're a winning program."

In any event, it's no surprise why McFadden's attracted suitors from around the country, big men who can move are at a premium.

"He's got the athletic skills to be an edge player," said Gutshall. "He really moves his feet well, and I think that's because of his basketball (background). That's what makes him so valuable. For a big body, he can really move his body and pick up guys coming off the edge."

McFadden suited up for the Cavaliers' JV squad as a freshman. He has been starter for the varsity — which competes against the top competition in the Palmetto State (5A) — since his sophomore campaign. Gutshall can't remember a time when McFadden's missed a snap due to injury, a credit to his pupil's durability, and his presence on the field isn't taken for granted.

"A lot of things we do (on offense) is because of him," said Gutshall. "If we got a choice between pulling the guard or tackle, we'll always pull the tackle because of him. Because he's so good in space."

"We pull him on screens, we like to get him out there," the 45-year coaching veteran added. "Most linemen, when they get out there, they can't hit them little guys anyhow, Jordan can."

That sets up an opportunity for McFadden's favorite.

"I enjoy pancaking people," he said.

Justin Fuente thought enough of the 3-star prospect to lead McFadden and his mom on a 30-minute university tour during a June 10 visit to Blacksburg. James Shibest hits him up every other day, and Vance Vice recently reiterated the early impact he could have at Tech on the field.

Though Gutshall also raves about the person off of it.

"Everybody loves him," said Gutshall. "Every teacher loves him. He's never in trouble. He's quiet. He's not one of those guys that you hear, but he's always doing his job. He never skips a rep in the weight room. I don't know of anybody that doesn't love Jordan. Just a fine young man."