Lindsey, Warren ready to be big-name prospects

"We came in with a plan and they bought into it," Alcoa football coach John Reid said. "That's how they've gotten to where they're at. I believe it (weightlifting) makes you more disciplined and gives you self confidence."

The offseason workout regimen resulted in on-field success last year as Alcoa won the Class 2A state championship. Lindsey rushed for 1,377 yards and scored 29 touchdowns during the regular season. Warren caught 25 passes for 476 yards and seven touchdowns as a tight end. At defensive end, he tallied eight sacks.

"You can tell the difference," Lindsey said. "It's so much different when you're stronger than you're opponent. My freshman year we were weak because we never lifted weights. (Now), we never stop working out."

The 6-foot-1, 215-pound Lindsey is still genuinely excited, and somewhat surprised, to be receiving so much attention. The shifty tailback understands the recruiting process. He's been a fan since his freshman year, always dreaming that he might be the next big-name prospect.

Now, letters are a common occurrence for Lindsey, including the handwritten note from Southern Cal coach Pete Carroll last fall. North Carolina and Tennessee also have shown the strongest interest. Alabama and Auburn are just beginning their pursuit.

Lindsey, who is also being recruited as a linebacker, smiles every time he picks up a letter from a school.

"I'm just happy to get letters," said Lindsey. "When coach gives me a letter, my eyes light up. Every letter I get I'm just so excited."

The 6-3, 230-pound Warren on the other hand seems content to wait to see exactly how next year plays out. He has received strong interest from UT, Ohio State, Clemson, LSU, and Vanderbilt. Warren said UT is the early leader.

"I want to wait and go on all my visits to check out these other schools," said Warren. "I never really thought I would be a big prospect."

Warren's collegiate position is very much still in question. Warren said he would prefer to play tight end in college to showcase his hands and playmaking ability. On the other side of the ball, Warren's strength is his determination.

"He cannot stand to be defeated on a play," Reid said. "He plays every down hard."

As for Lindsey, Reid said many of his impressive traits are on display even when he's not carrying the ball.

"Just because you're a great running tailback in high school doesn't mean you're going to get on the field (in college) unless you commit to block. He'll do that," Reid said. "And he catches everything you throw to him."

Lindsey said he plans to wait until midway through his senior season to truly examine his collegiate options. Playing at UT -- possibly with Warren -- has plenty of appeal.

"Who wouldn't want to go to Tennessee? It would be great," Lindsey said. "I would love to go to the same school as Brandon. We're just tight like that. We've been friends since elementary school and our moms are real good friends. He's like my brother."

As juniors, both players are working towards their academic eligibility. College entrance exam dates are set for spring. Once that hurdle is clear, collegiate interest will grow and scholarship offers will mount.

Both players are now trying to lead Alcoa's basketball team to football-like success. Lindsey is averaging just over eight points and four rebounds per game for the Tornados. Warren is averaging nearly 17 points and 10 rebounds.

UT hopes childhood fandom doesn't play into either players' decision. Lindsey grew up a Florida fan while Warren was rooting for Florida State.

Lindsey said he isn't concerned about UT's stable of running backs. The Vols signed two tailbacks in 2004 and two more in 2005. Both players are receiving the UT coaxing that one would expect given their proximity to UT's campus.

"I hear it everyday," Warren said. "Everybody wants me to go to Tennessee. I think it's a good idea but there are other things that will balance out my decision."