Hall still has hurdles, but likes UT

The 6-foot-5, 255-pound defensive end from Brainerd High School in Chattanooga said UT leads for his services following his official visit to Knoxville this past weekend.

"I liked it," he said Sunday. "I enjoyed Knoxville."

UT is still evaluating Hall, but has yet to offer him a scholarship. Interest nationwide in the prospect has been limited because of academic concerns. Given its limited number of scholarships, that could play to UT's advantage if Hall agrees to a stopover in prep school to improve his academics.

Hall said prep school is tolerable. Junior college isn't.

"That's not something I was looking forward to," he said.

Hall was optimistic that he could qualify this year.

"At first, there was an issue with grades," Hall said. "With my grades and my ACT score, most likely I'll be able to come up there and play."

That remains so be seen. UT will send a representative to Brainerd on Monday to examine the situation.

Hall took an official visit to Marshall on Jan. 13. He said he'll take an official visit to Middle Tennessee State this weekend. Hall said he also has received interest from Colorado. An official trip could be in the works.

Once academics are resolved, Hall could prove to be a steal for his chosen school. With his rangy physique and quickness, he has plenty of potential.

"Defensive line is good to me," he said. "You're going up against somebody slower. They're (offensive linemen) going to be strong, but they're going to be slow."

Hall said he was impressed by the crowd, announced at 23,238, at Thompson-Boling Arena when UT's basketball team beat South Carolina, 64-61, on Saturday. From what he's seen, that's typical of UT fans.

"I've been to a couple of Tennessee football games," Hall said. "I like how the crowd is in on every single play. That will make a person play better."