Desper commits to MSU

Madison Central (Miss.) junior Devon Desper took in another unofficial visit to Mississippi State on Saturday, his second visit over the past few weeks. But this one was a bit different as the offensive lineman prospect left campus as the Bulldogs' first commitment for the Class of 2012.

Desper recently collected a verbal offer from the Bulldogs and decided to choose the Bulldogs this weekend.

"That is the reason I went up there was to commit to them face to face," said Desper, who also drew interest from Ole Miss and Alabama. "They offered me about two weeks ago but they wanted my parents to come up there, too. I had already been to their junior day but they wanted my parents up there, too. So that is what we did this weekend and it felt pretty good."

And Desper said once he got his MSU offer, he knew what his decision would be.

"It feels good because I've always liked them," said Desper. "So it feels good to get it over with and I know I am sticking with Mississippi State. When I told Coach (Dan) Mullen today, he said he was glad to have me and was glad I came up there with my family. He wanted me to make sure that I was going to stick with my commitment and I told him I was definitely going to do that."

Last year Desper started at center for Madison Central and helped the Jaguars reach the Class 6A North State semifinals. And he expects to likely stay at that same position at the next level.

"They've talked about center previously and that is good with me," said Desper. "I don't think it has changed of late as far as what position they want me to play."

With his decision behind him, Desper said he will soon return to Mississippi State next month. He wasn't able to attend Mississippi State's spring scrimmage on Saturday but plans to check out his future O-line mates at the Bulldogs' spring game.

"I wasn't able to go to their scrimmage deal because we got there a little late," said Desper. "We had some things to do at our church so we didn't make it in time. But I am coming up for their spring game and it does feel good to be the first commitment for Mississippi State (in the 2012 class)."