Decision Time Looms for Lineman

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When Peter White was 12, he weighed almost 200 pounds and most youth leagues told him he was too big to play football. Five years ago, in the eighth grade, he was finally able to put on the pads and he fell in love with the sport. Now he checks in at 6 feet 5, 340 pounds, and the St. John's (D.C.) senior is one of the most sought-after offensive linemen in the country.

He has narrowed the initial 20 scholarship offers to a manageable three -- Maryland, Tennessee and Miami. This weekend White made his last official visit to Miami. Growing up around the area, White always heard about players getting full rides to play football. But he never really thought much about it. "It doesn't mean as much to you until you get your own [scholarship offer]. When I got that first offer on September 1 from Maryland, I was smiling the whole day."

Since then, his mailbox has been full, his cellphone rings more than ever and division I-A coaches personally visit to convince him that theirs is the school for him. Months later, "all this stuff is all starting to run together for me," White said, "but at the same time I know the differences between all three."

So, after this final visit, White and his parents (Regina and Pete White Sr.) will sit down with the list of pros and cons for each school. Academics, playing time, family atmosphere -- all will weigh into the decision. Peter plans to announce his choice Wednesday on National Signing Day. "It's something special," White said. "You worked hard for it and someone sees potential in you."