From Couch to Daniel: Kash Daniel Prediction

On Saturday, America will be celebrating its Independence. On the same day in Paintsville, locals and media will gather to watch 4-star LB Kash Daniel pick up a baseball cap. The recruiting hat-trick is not one of my favorite things in the world. But, I understand youthful enthusiasm and its significance. Daniel’s final three choices are Kentucky, Louisville, and South Carolina. Accomplished, highly skilled, mountain athletes take on a larger than life persona. There is a strong sense of Appalachian pride when one of their own is nationally recognized. Daniel’s meteoric rise and US Army All American Bowl selection are worthy of such praise. He’s indeed made us proud. Yes I used us. I’m from that area. Question of the day remains, which hat will he pick up? In June, I posted that I felt he was leaning towards South Carolina. Upon his return from an unofficial visit to Columbia, he quickly changed his commitment date. In addition to the time change, he cancelled a visit to Florida and indicated that he’d made up his mind. All that could have been interpreted two different ways. Either he was all in with Spurrier, or perhaps validation for Kentucky. Louisville has been the least discussed of the three options. For Cat fans, his silence about their in-state rival is unnerving. Is he really considering the Cardinals? Bobby Petrino beating Mark Stoops for a mountain kid would be a major coup. I don’t actually own a crystal ball. Can’t say I’ve ever seen one. But on America’s patriotic holiday I think Kash Daniel’s declaration will be one of blue, not garnet or red. He’s a Wildcat.