It looked like DeMatha defensive tackle Cyrus Kouandjio would be down to SEC rivals Auburn and Alabama when he eventually makes his National Signing Day decision at noon on ESPNU. However, a darkhorse has emerged late: New Mexico, a team that finished 1-11 last season.
Yes, it's true. According to Andrea Adelson of ESPN, Kouandjio's final three teams are Auburn, Alabama and, yes, New Mexico. Despite consecutive 1-11 seasons, New Mexico coach Mike Locksley has local ties, and that may be enough to pull off a shocker and steal Kouandjio away from the SEC powers. If so, it would be a real shot in the arm for a floundering program.
Of course, it won't be the first time New Mexico pulled off a Signing Day shocker. Last year, they stole four-star defensive tackle Calvin Smith from a verbal commitment to Tennessee. In front of a live audience on ESPNU, Smith shocked everyone and chose New Mexico over Tennessee, Alabama and North Carolina, taking him away when Lane Kiffin bolted to USC. In a few minutes, there's a small chance we may see a similar shocker with Kouandjio.