Just three wins away from ending his high school football career with an Alabama state championship,
Ben Davis understands he's also entered crunch time as a college recruit.
The nation's top-ranked inside linebacker, now less than 11 weeks separated from national signing day, plans to utilize three remaining official visits. Davis always anticipatedusing all five official visits, though he's decided to call an audible regarding destinations.
The coveted 6'3", 240-pound playmaker told Bleacher Report he will no longer visit Ole Miss this weekend for the Rebels' Nov. 21 game against LSU. Furthermore, the 5-star recruit doesn't expect to spend time in Oxford before signing day.
Instead, he'll use the next few days to relax and focus on a Gordo High School squad that remains unbeaten through 12 games. It's a decision that essentially knocks the Rebels out of this equation and opens the door for new contenders.
Davis still envisions official visits at Auburn and Alabama in January. He'll see both programs in action next weekend while attending the Iron Bowl in Auburn.
These bitter in-state rivals are accustomed to fighting for elite talent, but the battle becomes more personal in this case. Davis is the son of all-time Crimson Tide tackles leader Wayne Davis, linking him to the program as a potential legacy player.
He's already traveled to Georgia and LSU this season, leaving one last official visit when you factor in impending stays at Alabama and Auburn.
Credit: 247Sports
Davis is focused on taking all five official visits before national signing day.
Davis is "not 100 percent sure" about which school will receive his fifth and final visit, but the choice seemingly centers on Notre Dame and Michigan, two schools that haven't been heavily affiliated with his recruitment to this point.
"I really want to get up to South Bend. I've heard it's a great place to be," Davis said.
The Fighting Irish extended a scholarship offer in early March, just weeks before the Wolverines joined a nationwide chase.
"Coach [Jim] Harbaugh has been in the NFL, and I think he's a great leader. I know [running backs coach] Tyrone Wheatleyreally well too," Davis said.
He's maintained contact with running back
Kareem Walker and defensive tackle
Rashan Gary, both rated No. 1 at their respective positions in 2016 recruiting class rankings, since meeting the New Jersey duo at a camp. Both players are projected to sign with the Wolverines in 247Sports' Crystal Ball, and Davis has monitored their flirtations with Michigan.
"I know they've visited the school a lot, so that makes me eager to go up there and see for myself," he said.
Devin Bush Jr., who was roommates with Davis this summer at The Opening, has a
top two of Michigan and Florida State. He spoke highly of the Wolverines during discussions between the two, providing another positive impression for Davis.
While Davis will undoubtedly face immense expectations on defense at any college, he believes there could be an opportunity beyond linebacker in Ann Arbor.
"[Michigan defensive back] Jabrill Peppers is kind of an all-around guy. They let him play offense. I'd like the chance to play a little offense too, so that might be something they would let me do. Go score some touchdowns," Davis said.