Keller Central DB Zack Sanchez commits to OU

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By David McNabb

Keller Central defensive back Zack Sanchez verbally committed to Oklahoma on Monday afternoon after becoming one of the hottest recruiting commodities for the Class of 2012.

Sanchez boosted an Oklahoma class after newly hired defensive coordinator Mike Stoops made a strong pitch in the final month before National Signing Day on Wednesday.

Sanchez (6-0, 172) was not considered a highly rated prospect when Baylor coach Art Briles offered him a scholarship on the spot during a strong summer camp performance. Sanchez then turned Keller Central in a first-time state playoff contender and was named first-team to The Dallas Morning News All-Area team as a 2-way star at defensive back and wide receiver. Projected as a college safety, Sanchez had nine interceptions (two returned for touchdowns) and 10 pass break-ups. He caught 45 passes for 994 yards and 13 TDs with three rushing touchdowns in 21 carries.

Sanchez returned from a visit to Oklahoma this weekend before deciding whether to stay with Baylor or switch to Oklahoma. Sanchez said while the recruiting competition was intense it hadn't created hard feelings.

"Coach (Mike) Stoops didn't pound me, didn't go on about why this is why OU is better than Baylor," Sanchez told soonerscoop.com "He talked about why he came back, expectations beyond the field, and just finding what is the best fit for me."

Sanchez visted Baylor 10 days ago and was equally impressed with how Briles was handling the late-decision.

"They told me that they are going to fight for me and they aren't mad, they expected schools were going to come in late, so they weren't surprised," Sanchez said.

Baylor to pick up a defensive back got a Monday commitment from Waco Midway safety Orion Stewart. Baylor still has a highly regarded recruiting class as BU is capitalizing on a record-setting season and Bears quarterback Robert Griffin III winning the Heisman Trophy.