Darius Myers is starting to answer the questions.

What about his grades? Why didn't he receive more interest from college football's elite programs? Will he make it through a strict prep school regimen and eventually play for Tennessee?

So far, the Cordova High School offensive lineman is receiving high marks in his first month at Hargrave Military Institute in Chatham, Va.

"He came in like a ball of fire and he's done a great job the whole time here," offensive line coach Brian White said.

Myers, who signed with UT last February, is intent on joining the Vols in January. White said the 6-foot-4, 310-pounder reminds him of former Hargrave star offensive guard Brandon Albert, who started as a freshman for Virginia last week.

"He even looks like him," White said.

White said he and head coach Robert Prunty grew excited about Myers when he constantly called the coaching staff over the summer to prepare himself for the high school-to-military school transition.

Myers could be the steal of UT's 2005 class if he comes to Knoxville as prepared as freshman defensive tackle Demonte Bolden and freshman defensive back Jonathan Hefney. Both players said they benefited from the structure that Hargrave provides.

After falling short academically, Bolden came to UT in January in the best shape of his playing career. Hefney started as a freshman last season upon arriving from Hargrave.

A refocused Myers already is on his way.

"He passed the look test and then we got him on the field, we were so impressed," Prunty said. "I think this kid is really going to have a bright future."

Myers' academic issues caused many programs to pass on the "other" West Tennessee offensive lineman. Myers was often compared to Briarcrest's Michael Oher. Oher signed with Ole Miss after being named the News Sentinel's top prospect in the Tennessee.

Several high school and college coaches compared the two players last season, saying Myers was often overlooked and better than he was given credit for. Several colleges shied away from Myers because of his academic concerns.

"He's going to be another great player," Prunty said. "He works really hard. He's a very intelligent young man on the offensive line. We are very fortunate to have him here."

The Waltons: UT appears to be in very good shape with lineman J.B. Walton of Indian Head, Md., thanks to Larry Slade's efforts.

"I would be very surprised if Tennessee isn't one of his official visits," said Lackey High School coach Scott Chadwick of his star lineman.

Nebraska seemed to have the upper hand when Walton reportedly scheduled an official visit to Lincoln. Chadwick said that's not necessarily the case.

"I'm not even sure if that's official," he said. "I think the Nebraska writer there may have read a little more into what J.B. was saying than may have actually been the case. He doesn't have any dates set but I really believe he's going to end up going to Tennessee and Florida State, definitely."

Walton is widely thought of as one of the top-100 prospects in the nation.

Chadwick said he expects Walton to play guard or center in college, although he wouldn't rule out a move to defense.

"I know there have been several arguments among the offensive and defensive coaches at several schools," Chadwick said. "The defensive line coaches love him as well."

Walton's list is still long. Chadwick said UT, Florida State, Nebraska, Florida, LSU, Oklahoma, Penn State, Ohio State and Maryland are in the running.

"His biggest strength is his mobility," Chadwick said. "At 6-foot-3, 280 pounds, he really runs more like an outside linebacker or a strong safety. He has outstanding agility for his size. He plays with great passion and a great motor. He has tremendous technique as well. I think he'll have a great college career."

Sunshine Steals: A win against the Florida Gators on Saturday could help UT solidify its inroads in the Sunshine state. UT is recruiting at least 20 players from Florida.

UT signed four players from Florida last season, thanks to an increased effort in Florida, particularly in the Miami area.

Back to California: UT recruiting coordinator Greg Adkins traveled to California this weekend to visit several prospects. Linebacker Joshua Tatum and NaDerris Ward are two of the main targets.

The cousins from McClymonds High School in Oakland are widely thought of as two of the top 100 prospects.

Tatum is a 6-0, 220-pound linebacker. Ward is a 6-5, 245 pounds and could play defensive end or tight end.

Battleground: UT appears to have a worthy foe in Memphis. Ole Miss head coach Ed Orgeron secured a commitment from athlete Cassius Vaughn this week.

"They really weren't recruiting me until Coach O came along," the 6-1, 185-pounder told the Memphis Commercial Appeal. "They sent me a pound of mail and made phone calls. They showed concern for me and my family. There's a warm,family feeling. It's going to be real intense and exciting. I'm looking forward to it."

UT and the Rebels tangled last year to secure the services of Oher until the lineman eventually selected Ole Miss.

No Quit: Don't expect UT - orany other program - to give up on Percy Harvin just yet. As long as the Landstown High School star from Virginia Beach, Va., has one official visit remaining, schools will continue to try to lure the prospect to campus and improve their chances of securing arguably the top prospect in the country.

Still, Harvin said he has all but ruled out the Vols earlier this week. Harvin said he will visit Florida, Miami, Southern Cal and Michigan.

Dave Hooker covers recruiting and may be reached at hookerd@knews.com.