Brandon Baker, nation's No. 1 offensive tackle, visiting Nebraska Cornhuskers ahead of college commitment
Mater Dei (California) five-star offensive tackle Brandon Baker is set to announce his college commitment September 24.
But there's one more trip he's got to take first.
On Tuesday, Baker confirmed to SBLive Sports that he still intends to be in Lincoln for this Saturday's game between Northern Illinois and Nebraska.
The 6-foot-5, 285-pound offensive tackle later posted confirmation on social media:
Baker is down to a final five of Florida State, Nebraska, Ohio State, Oregon and Texas.
For more than a year, the Ducks were viewed as the favorites to secure his commitment.
However, Baker has been intrigued by both Nebraska and Texas.
Most recently, the Longhorns have emerged as the clear-cut team-to-beat, according to both 247Sports and On3.
But, as many coaches will tell you, "If you get a visit, you've got a chance."
And Nebraska is getting a third.
Furthermore, coaching staffs will often compete to get the final visit before a decision, believing that having the last word can make-or-break a tight race.
That final visit appears to belong to Nebraska.
Will it be enough?
We'll find out soon.
Here's what 247Sports had to say, in part, about Baker as a prospect:
"Athletically-built offensive lineman who can live long term on the outside. Owns adequate height with above average length and frame space to continue adding mass. ...Plays mad and it shows in the run game. Excellent drive blocker who looks to finish blocks to the ground. Displays impressive lateral quickness and range when required to pull or reach targets at the second level. ...Play strength is good and combines with size too often overwhelm smaller, overmatched defenders. ...Pass-pro reps are promisingly natural and effective. Quite light-footed and body-controlled... Hand placement also shows encouraging consistency in pass reps. ...Faces excellent competition in practice and often in games ...Run-game hand placement consistency and body control when engaged can improve. Overpowers defenders with regularity, but punch power can more consistently manifest."
