Published: October 07, 2008 10:07 am      

Duncan lineman commits to Golden Hurricane

DUNCAN — Duncan defensive tackle Gabe McGee realized a dream this week when he made a verbal commitment to Tulsa University.

McGee, a preseason All-State selection, spent a couple of weeks weighing the pros and cons of suiting up for the Golden Hurricane before accepting a scholarship offer via telephone.

“The first goal I set was to get my college paid for and play Division I football,” McGee said. “I set that goal in seventh grade. I think out of all the schools, I fell in love with Coach Paul Randolph. I fit the job perfect and I can be successful on and off of the field.”

McGee also considered Kansas State, Colorado State and Baylor before settling on Tulsa, an annual contender for the Conference USA championship. The Golden Hurricane has strong ties to the Duncan area. Former Duncan quarterback Trent Wilkins and former Comanche offensive lineman Jody Whaley both suit up for Tulsa, and Marlow native Keith Patterson is the defensive coordinator for the team.

The decision process has weighed on McGee early this season and he is ready to put that future behind him and focus on the task at hand, helping lead Duncan into the playoffs.

“I just called them and told that it was time to stop worrying about myself and get the recruiting behind me,” McGee said. “It can get you down, not knowing where you are going to play. If I commit to them, I have to stay faithful and stay with my commitment. I am going to keep with it. It’s the best decision, I’m ready to be in their womb.”

McGee made an impression on the coaching staff during summer camp and has visited the campus several times. He is excited about the strides the program is taking, on and off the field. The Hurricane is one of the more exciting teams in college offensively and has upgraded its facilities as it establishes itself as a non-BCS power.

McGee, a 310-pound run stuffer in the middle of the line, has the tools and ability to make an impact at the college level and help the program continue its ascension at the Division I level.

“He will be fine,” Duncan defensive line coach Tim Buben said. “He is explosive off of the ball. That’s what I like about him and what Tulsa liked about him. He’s just a load, he’s hard to move. He knows how to take a double team down.

“He’s also plenty competitive enough. He is an ultra-competitor, he likes to play and likes to win.”

McGee is undecided on what he will major in at Tulsa but is leaning toward business management.