Gators nab South Lake RB Demps

Urban's Meyer's goal to make Florida the fastest college football team in America gained some impressive momentum Wednesday Groveland South Lake athlete Jeff Demps committed to the Gators in an announcement on ESPNU.

Demps ran the 100 meters in 10.25 seconds at the Junior Olympics last year and is regarded by many to be the fastest high school recruit in the nation.

"Next season I will be playing for the University of Florida," Demps said in announcing his decision on ESPNU. "I made the decision a couple of weeks ago. I just felt that Florida offered great atmosphere, great coaching and great academics."

South Lake coach Walter Banks said the Gators are getting a special prospect.

"He's a great athlete and just a quality kid," Banks said. "He's been a real leader for us."

He's also apparently pretty dangerous with the ball in his hands.

The 5-9, 170-pound Demps rushed for 1,401 yards and 16 touchdowns and averaged 10.3 yards per carry this past season. As a junior, he rushed for 1,761 yards and 21 touchdowns.

Demps chose the Gators over Tennessee, a school he visited twice. Demps has attended numerous UF games, including the Gators' victories over Tennessee and Florida State this season.

"It was close (between UF and UT)," Banks said. "Urban Meyer and (offensive coordinator) Dan Mullen did a great job recruiting him. They showed him exactly how he'll fit in at Florida."

Demps was recruited as an athlete and take on several roles at UF, including running back, wide receiver and kick returner.

Demps is rated a four-star recruit by Rivals.com and Scout.com. He also will run track at Florida, where Mike Holloway is considered one of the best sprints coaches in the nation.

The Gators now have commitments from 17 prospects in what is expected to grow into another top 10 class for Florida.