Offensive lineman looking for a place to call home

Quinton Washington knows what he will look for when he begins sifting through his list of schools.

The 6-foot-3, 315-pound offensive lineman from Timberland High School in St. Stephen, S.C., has received scholarship offers from seven schools: Tennessee, South Carolina, Alabama, North Carolina State, Clemson, Maryland and Miami.

Washington said he hasn’t begun researching the schools recruiting him, but he knows what they’ll need to offer.

“I’ll look for a place where I can get my degree and get a good education and have a great social life,” he said. “A place where I can have a good time and feel like I’m home.”

Feeling like he’s home will be a key.

Washington said the school he chooses will need to have a good chemistry between its coaching staff and players.

“That’s real important,” he said. “It’s got to be a place I can feel comfortable.”

Timberland head coach Art Craig believes Washington will feel comfortable on the field at any school he chooses.

Craig said Washington’s athleticism will help him adjust quickly to the college game.

“His feet are unbelievable for a guy his size,” Craig said. “He can reach you, he can down you, he can pull and go get somebody. He has unlimited potential.”

Craig said Washington, who plays offensive tackle at Timberland, projects to play guard in college.

If offense doesn’t work, Craig said Washington could move to defensive tackle.

“That’s what makes him remarkable too,” Craig said. “He’s very coachable. He’s willing to change if it means getting better.”

Craig praised Washington’s work ethic and efforts to get better.

Washington said he’s motivated to improve so he can provide a better future for his parents.

“They mean a whole lot to me,” he said. “They have to work so hard.

“I just want to make it. I want to make it better for my parents so I can give back to my parents someday.”

© 2008, Knoxville News Sentinel Co.
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