"In past years, Underwood would have set up a massive recruiting weekend, trying to convince every possible high school prospect to see U of I at its best. The early signing period, after all, is just five weeks away. This year? No official visits, just a couple of local players who will drive over on their own. "I'm just choosing not to do it," Underwood said. "I'm not wasting the time or the dollars.""
"The recruiting calendar has shifted for myriad reasons. The tendency of coaches to favor experienced players from the transfer portal has lowered the heat on landing high school stars. Meanwhile, top players are holding out for more certainty and what they hope are higher monetary offers in the spring. But the trend is compounded this year by uncertainty over a proposed NCAA change that would provide all athletes five years of eligibility over a five-year span, dubbed the "5-in-5 Rule.""
The University of Illinois hosted top-ranked Ohio State, creating a sellout and ideal weather for the game. Brad Underwood declined to stage a large recruiting weekend, citing cost and choosing not to bring official visitors. Recruiting activity has slowed nationwide as coaches increasingly value experienced transfer portal players and high school prospects delay commitments seeking better spring compensation. The proposed NCAA '5-in-5' rule, granting five years of eligibility across five seasons to eliminate redshirts and waiver disputes, has added uncertainty. The rule's unclear approval timeline and slow NCAA process have made coaches cautious about recruiting and roster planning.
Read at ESPN.com
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