Covington credits coaching

Over the past couple of decades, Lovejoy (Ga.) High School has put its share of players in the college ranks and the Class of 2012 will be no exception. Looking to be in that group is junior offensive lineman Jamal Covington. And like previous prospects before him, Covington credits his head coach Al Hughes for providing college opportunities.

"Coach Hughes is probably the best coach out there," said the 6-foot-4 and 270-pound Covington. "He really helps us. He puts our highlight tapes and videos out there, gives us information on camps and schools. He is really a great person and not just a good coach. He works us hard in the weight room and makes sure we achieve greatness. That is why we're going to do all we can to put a state championship ring on his hand."

That process of a long postseason run began this week with Lovejoy spring drills.

"Everything is good," said Covington. "I will be starting at left tackle again and I love having that responsibility. I want to make sure I come off the ball harder this year and really work hard on my footwork and just be an all-around, good football player."

Earlier this year, Covington attended junior days at Mississippi State, Georgia, Vanderbilt and Wake Forest. He plans to return to camps at those schools this summer and noted several schools are stopping by this spring.

"Central Florida has been by here and Georgia and Vanderbilt are also coming by," said Covington. "Louisiana-Lafayette has been talking with me and they may be close to offering and they want me at their camp. I plan to go to their camp, and also camps at Mississippi State, Southern Miss and Georgia and Vanderbilt and Central Florida."

Back in March, Covington got his first glimpse of MSU's program via junior day.

"Mississippi State is supposed to come by, too, this spring," said Covington. "I get a lot of letters from them and I keep up with Coach John Hevesy. I really loved it down there and I am definitely look forward to their camp. I think I can get a better feel and learn more about their program at camp. I am not sure how close they are to offering but performing well at their camp will help."

Of the schools showing interest, Covington noted of a trio of schools that he is interested in at this point.

"I like Central Florida and Georgia and I want to know more about Mississippi State," said Covington. "I feel like the coaches at that school could really push me to be great at the next level. I know Coach Hevesy is the type of person that doesn't take any crap and would push me to be the best athlete I can be."