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Florida-bound Powell is No. 1 recruit

Defensive end, All-American Bowl MVP, is ‘an unbelievable talent’

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  All-American Bowl wrap up
The future looks good for the Florida Gators as they reel in Ronald Powell and Sharrif Floyd.

The debate didn’t last long. The consensus among Rivals.com recruiting analysts was unanimous.

After Moreno Valley (Calif.) Rancho Verde defensive end Ronald Powell dominated all week at the U.S. Army All-American Bowl — both during practices and by taking home most outstanding player honors in the game — he ended up No. 1 in the final Rivals100 for the Class of 2010.

Powell’s domination began in practices early in the week during one-on-ones against some of the best offensive linemen in the nation. Powell finished the game with five tackles, one sack and a forced fumble and added a 27-yard touchdown reception and a 97-yard return for a two-point conversion off a blocked extra point. Powell showed he has the versatility and athleticism to possibly play more positions at the next level.

“Powell has the speed, strength and athleticism to beat much bigger offensive linemen,” Rivals.com analyst Barry Every said. “He can win battles up front using technique, speed or strength. He also has amazing athleticism that allows him to also possibly be used as a threat at tight end on offense or as a linebacker in certain defensive schemes. He should end up as one of the premier pass-rushing defensive ends in a couple years. He has all the physical tools to play this game for a long time.”

San Antonio Madison coach Jim Streety, who coached the West roster in the Army Bowl, said the most outstanding player trophy Powell hoisted on Saturday in the Alamodome will not be his last.

“In about four years you are going to be seeing that guy somewhere on Sunday,” Streety said. “He’s an unbelievable talent.”

Powell, who can bench press 355 pounds and has a 37-inch vertical leap, moves up from No. 5 in the previous rankings. Despite his impressive performances during Army week, his climb wasn’t based entirely on what he did in San Antonio. He had an impressive senior season, helping Rancho Verde finish with an 11-1 record and reach the second round of the CIF playoffs.

“I’ve had the opportunity to coach a lot of excellent players and prospects over the years,” Rancho Verde coach Pete Duffy said. “But Ronald has the potential to be the best ever. He’s focused on becoming the best in everything he does, and it’s been amazing to watch how he has transformed himself into not only a great player on the field, but a great person off of it. He’s going to be a success in everything he does.”


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