Clerance France, a linebacker from Columbus, Ga., has committed to play at Duke.
France, a 6-2, 210-pound senior at Carver High School, also had offers from Western Kentucky and Troy but wanted to join what he considers a growing Blue Devils program.
"He likes what Duke offers academically," said Coach Dell McGee of Carver. "He gets along with the coaching staff. Duke has what he wants."
France is Duke's 16th commitment for the recruiting class of 2010 and can sign a binding national letter of intent in February.
France played on the offensive line last season as Carver went 8-1, but McGee moved him this season, feeling that linebacker would be his best position in college. McGee said that Duke recruited France, who has 4.6-second speed over 40 yards, as a linebacker.
"He's going to bust his butt and give 130 percent," McGee said. "Another factor is he's new at the position. You can see in time that he's going to be a real good linebacker. He's got a lot of upside, in my opinion."
"He's a great kid, a great character guy."
France is the third player from the Columbus area to join Duke in the past two recruiting classes. Linebacker John Drew and running back Kyle Griswould, both freshmen, are from nearby Midland.
bcole@wsjournal.com.
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