Jones had a fantastic senior season and now Gophers fans hope he keeps his verbal to the U.
Jeff Jones, a 5-10, 180-pound senior running back from Minneapolis Washburn who is one of the top players in the state in the Class of 2014, was the first player from that class to receive a scholarship offer from Minnesota and first commitment when he committed in February. The two-sport standout recently talked with Gopher Hole.
Gopher Hole: You scored in every way possible against Bloomington Kennedy last week with two rushing touchdowns, two receiving touchdowns, a kickoff return for a score and a game-winning halfback option pass. How pleased are you with how well you played tonight?
Jeff Jones: I am pretty pleased with how I played. Kennedy had a great game of holding me in a little bit of the first quarter, but mostly my teammates pushed me through. I wasn’t feeling good today. My teammates held me up and kept me going.
Gopher Hole: Were you able to go to the Gopher game today versus Nebraska?
Jeff Jones: No. I had an ACT test.
Gopher Hole: What is the latest on schools you are hearing from besides Minnesota?
Jeff Jones: Michigan State, Missouri, Illinois, Iowa State and Oklahoma.
Gopher Hole: Have you thought about trying to make some visits or are you going to wait until after your season is done?
Jeff Jones: I am just waiting until after the season. Focusing on my school work and finishing out my high school season first.
Gopher Hole: Did you even get a chance to watch the Gopher game on TV against Nebraska?
Jeff Jones: No, I had the test.
Gopher Hole: Did you hear how they did?
Jeff Jones: Yes. I heard that they won. It was a big win for them. I think that this was probably the earliest that they have become bowl-eligible.
Gopher Hole: I know that you have a great relationship with the Gopher coaches. What are they saying to you?
Jeff Jones: They just really want me there. They want me to stay committed and think that I could help their program out.
Gopher Hole: Are you planning on playing basketball this winter and what are the expectations after having a lot of young players last season.
Jeff Jones: Yes, I am playing basketball. We have got those young players coming back. I expect a lot from them. They are juniors now and were sophomores last year. They are ready to play this year.
Gopher Hole: I know that a lot of Gopher fans would love to see you for the hometown team. What would it mean to you to play for the Gophers?
Jeff Jones: It would mean a lot, if that is the school that I pick, just because I was born and raised here. If not, so be it. It will be a good opportunity.