Future Coug getting calls from Pac-10 quartet

WHEN TIM HODGDON verbally committed to Washington State back in early November, it didn't make, beyond the Cougar Nation, much of a big splash around the Pac-10. But prior to his official visit to WSU this past weekend, a foursome of Pac-10 schools called the future Cougar hoss, looking to gauge his interest in checking out their respective schools. Is Hodgdon still thinking crimson?

Tim Hodgdon verbally committed to the Cougs before Paul Wulff and staff came on board. And in the ever competitive world of college football recruiting, other schools will often compete for recruits already committed to another school -- particularly when there's a coaching change.

The 6-3.5, 287-pounder said the late interest from the four other Pac-10 schools, whom he didn't name, was flattering. The foursome told him they'd be calling again after his weekend trip to touch base. But Hodgdon says he's not interested, especially after his official visit to the Palouse this past weekend.

"If they do that's great, but I'm a Washington State Cougar," said Hodgdon.

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THE TRIP TO to Wazzu, the Cougar hoops game against Oregon, the overall experience -- it was all pretty much picture-perfect, Hodgdon said.

"It just reassured me how much I love Washington State and how much I want to be a Cougar," said Hodgdon about his Wazzu experience over the weekend. "I met some of the offensive linemen and they seemed like quality guys. I'm really excited to get up there in the summer and hopefully have a chance to compete."

HODGDON, WHO WILL arrive at Washington State as an interior offensive lineman, lining up at either guard or center, has been in the Disneyland-area this week practicing for the Southern California Bowl. In between practices and meetings, the all-star squads have been touring naval and military bases as part of the week long series of events.

The So-Cal Bowl gets kicks off on Saturday, Jan. 26 at Cal State Fullerton at 1:15 p.m. The all-star game pits Orange, San Diego and Imperial County against Riverside and San Bernardino.

AT TESORO HIGH this season, the offense ran 75 percent of their run plays to Hodgdon's side. Tesoro won the South Coast League championship and Hodgdon was named first team all-county offensive lineman by the Orange County Register.

Tesoro coach Brian Barnes told the newspaper that Hodgdon, "blew defenders off the ball, making it really easy for running backs".

Playing the offensive line requires a different breed. There's always something hurting. And Hodgdon played half this past season with an injured shoulder.

He didn't miss a single snap. And he still earned first-team all league honors.

"Just a tough, tough kid", Barnes said.

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