On3 Recruiting Prediction Machine: LSU trending for 5-star CB Desmond Ricks

Five-star IMG Academy (Fla.) cornerback Desmond Ricks was at LSU over the weekend for the Tigers’ last-second, walk-off win over Alabama at Tiger Stadium.

And with a commitment decision expected on December 23, the Tigers have taken a commanding lead in the race to land him, according to the On3 Recruiting Prediction Machine (RPM).

After an expert pick in LSU’s favor from On3 national recruiting analyst Sam Spiegelman and updates from around the recruiting industry, the RPM now gives Brian Kelly and Co. an 85.2 percent chance of securing his commitment. Alabama (5.8%), Miami (3.2%) and Florida (2.3%) trail far behind.

Both the Crimson Tide and Gators are expected to host Ricks for official visits before his decision, but LSU is scheduled to get the last one on the weekend of December 16.

The 6-foot-1, 180-pound Ricks is the No. 12 overall prospect in the 2023 class, according to the On3 Consensus, a complete and equally weighted industry-generated average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He ranks as the nation’s No. 2 cornerback and the No. 4 senior recruit in the state of Florida.

Desmond Ricks Scouting Summary

“Big, athletic corner who stars on one of the most talented defenses in high school football. Has good stature for the position at over 6-foot-1 and 175 pounds heading into his junior season. Registers as a strong athlete in the combine setting. Was a key player on IMG Academy’s talented defense as a sophomore in addition to seeing significant time as a freshman. A smooth mover with advanced technical ability. Battle-tested against top wide receivers both in practice at IMG and in playing a national schedule throughout the fall. Older for the class, turning 18 years old in the middle of his junior season.” — Charles Power, On3 Director of Scouting and Rankings