Stoops returns to Florida for recruits

Posted: Wed 5:39 PM, Feb 06, 2013

LEXINGTON, Ky. (AP) - Mark Stoops' first Kentucky recruiting class shows he still has some pull in Florida.

Convincing two talented in-state players to stay home and help the rebuilding process also demonstrates Stoops' appeal in Kentucky.

Half of Kentucky's 22 signees announced on Wednesday are from Florida. That's a significant haul from the Sunshine State, which the former Florida State defensive coordinator promised to scour in his quest to lift Kentucky back to respectability following a 2-10 season.

Landing locals such as Louisville Trinity defensive end Jason Hatcher and Franklin County (Frankfort) wide receiver Ryan Timmons also matters to Big Blue Nation. Hatcher, 6-foot-3 and 250 pounds, backed out of his commitment to USC to sign with Kentucky; Timmons, a 5-10 wide receiver, announced he would play for the Wildcats on Tuesday.

Young commits to UK football