Missouri lands eight of state's top 14

COLUMBIA, Mo. -- Missouri doubled its take of in-state recruits in a 27-player class announced Wednesday.

The Tigers are coming off an 8-5 season capped by a one-point loss to Oregon State in the Sun Bowl.

Among the payoffs: the No. 1 overall prospect in the state as judged by two recruiting publications. According to Rivals.com, Missouri landed eight of the top 14 players in the state. Last year the Tigers settled for four of the top 20. The Tigers' class was rated 32nd in the nation.

The jewel of the class is Michael Keck of Harrisonville, an outside linebacker projected as a pass-rushing defensive end and rated the state's top prospect.

Illini flying high

Illinois wrapped up the first day high school football players could officially commit to a college with what experts are calling one of the strongest recruiting classes in the country.

In all, 20 players committed, topped by defensive end Martez Wilson and receiver Arrelious Benn.

"I know everybody gets excited," Illinois coach Ron Zook said. "I really believe it takes three classes. It takes that third class to push you over in terms of depth."