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Apparently Illinois offered a scholarship to a 10-year-old

Connor O'Gara

By Connor O'Gara

Published:

When Lovie Smith came to Illinois in 2016, many wondered how Lovie Smith would adapt to the recruiting world.

In the age of national recruiting, showcases and YouTube, recruits are getting discovered earlier than ever. Considering a recent decision Smith made, it’s safe to say he’s up on the latest recruiting trends.

Why? Smith reportedly offered a scholarship to a 10-year-old kid.

That’s right. According to MaxPreps.com, fourth-grader Bunchie Young received an offer from Illinois back in May.

Former Louisville defensive back Mike Evans, currently of LacedFacts Training Facility, tweeted out the news of Young’s offer on Wednesday night:

Illinois offensive coordinator Garrick McGee retweeted Evans’ tweet back in May.

If you’re keeping track at home, Young is a 2025 recruit. But based on his football and track accolades, it’s understandable why his exploits went viral.

Young, who ran a 12.4-second 100-meter dash, plays running back, receiver and defensive back. The Los Angeles native racked up 30 touchdowns playing youth football for the Hub City TarHeels last year (MaxPreps.com).

So what’s the hype with Young? See for yourself (via Under The Radar):

Young’s obviously got a long way to go even just to get to high school. At the very least, Illinois fans know that their staff is going to drastic measures to scout potential recruits.

Connor O'Gara

Connor O'Gara is the senior national columnist for Saturday Tradition. He's a member of the Football Writers Association of America. After spending his entire life living in B1G country, he moved to the South in 2015.