A pair of Mobile-area soccer players made their college picks on Monday with a surprising twist.

St. Paul’s offensive lineman Lucas taylor had long been an LSU engagement, but withdrew and quickly announced his decision to play for Mississippi State.

Taylor, 6-foot-5, 310 pounds, signed up to the Bulldogs after an unofficial visit to Mississippi state.

“Starkville felt right at home!” Taylor said IF All-American. “Many family members here, I know a lot of players, it’s great. They rolled out the red carpet. Unofficial solo [visitor] and I spent all day on campus with the coaches.

Taylor had plenty of offers besides the Bulldogs and LSU including Auburn, Florida, Arkansas, Texas A&M, Missouri, Ole Miss, Penn State, and Florida State.

The 3-Star Taylor is # 15 out of the state’s 247 Top Class 2022 Rookies and was a key part of St. Paul’s undefeated Class 5A championship season. He was selected in the ASWA Class 5A State First Team.

that of Daphne James quinnelly chose Memphis. 6-5, 275-pound defensive lineman Quinnelly picked Memphis over Appalachian State, Louisiana Tech, North Alabama, Troy, UAB and more.

In other recruitment news:

Briarwood Christian’s Christophe Vizzina recently announced two offers on social media.

The 2023 Class quarterback received offers from Duke and Louisville to go along with an offer from the Kentucky SEC for the 6-4, 200 pounds. Other offerings include Georgia Tech, Houston, UAB, and Troy.

Michigan added name to Madison Academy athlete roster Deuce spurlock. The 3 Star Rookie has an SEC offering from the State of Mississippi with Memphis, Pittsburgh, UAB, South Alabama, Boston College and more.

Anniston offensive lineman RyQueze McElderry recently chose an SEC offering with the addition of South Carolina to the list. The 6-3, 340-pound junior also has offers from Tennessee, Florida State and UAB.

Calera Receiver Kobe Prentice announced offers from southern Alabama and Troy. The 5-10, 175-pound senior also has offers from Arizona State, Arkansas State, Kansas State, Maryland and more.

Elba linebacker Chrystyle Caldwell announced offers from Washington State, Southern Alabama and Troy for the 6-1, 220-pound senior.

Helena receiver JC Sivley recently received an offer from UAB. The 6-6-year-old, 220-pound senior also has offers from Coastal Carolina and New Mexico.