OL Leifheit interested, checks out UT again

Tennessee appears to be in good standing with offensive lineman T.J. Leifheit from Hoggard High School in Wilmington, N.C.

The 6-foot-7, 300-pound Leifheit attended UT’s game against Ohio on Saturday during an unofficial visit.

Leifheit’s trip was significant because he took an official visit to UT on Sept. 12 to watch UT play UCLA.

Leifheit, who flew from Charlotte to Knoxville with his father on Saturday, said his official visit to UT influenced him to return.

“It was just the next game and I wanted to get back as soon as I could,” he said. “It was awesome. I had an outstanding time.”

UT is an intriguing school to Leifheit because of the opportunity for early playing time.

Leifheit plans to enroll in college in January and knows the Vols need immediate help on the offensive line.

“That’s a pretty big factor,” he said. “It’s going to play a role in it.

“Regardless of where I go I know I have to earn playing time. There won’t be anything given to me.”

Leifheit has also been drawn to UT because of its new staff.

“They just have a drive to win and they’re real passionate,” he said. “They’re real high-energy guys that do whatever it takes to get you ready to play.”

Leifheit said he’s also considering North Carolina and Southern California. He recently eliminated LSU and Florida State from his list.

Leifheit said he will take an official visit to North Carolina on Oct. 10. He hasn’t scheduled his official visit to USC.

Leifheit said he hopes to make his decision by late October.

“It’s just one of those things where I’ll say, ‘This is it,’ ” Leifheit said.

© 2009, Knoxville News Sentinel Co.
Want to use this article? Click here for options!