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Tori Millender only played in two games for Belleville West last season before a broken hand ended his sophomore year.
In those games though, he was a terror, showing aggressiveness, strength, and big time potential in a 6'1, 230-lb frame.
"I'd say I'm physical, aggressive, and I'd compare myself to Patrick Willis," Millender says.
The little bit of tape available from last year backs up his statement, and colleges have started to find out and he made the most of his summer opportunities.
"I got camp invites from Ohio State, Illinois, Cincinnati, and Missouri. I went to all of those except for Cincinnati. Eastern Illinois showing some interest and other schools like Northern Illinois too."
At Missouri's camp, Scout's J.P. Rock said Millender "looked like the top freshman prospect out at camp who participated in drills."
Millender himself says the Tigers gave him good feedback following the session.
"The coaches really like me. I played hard, physical every play, and my mind set there was trying to be seen."
More positive feedback came after Ohio State.
"That was the best camp teaching wise and competition wise too. I played my best there. Coach Fickell is a real good guy. Coach Coombs, who is recruiting me, said I did a real good job, Coach Fickell too. He said he's real interested to see my film this fall."
Then there was Illinois, an in-state school who is hoping to keep talented players like Millender within state borders.
"Illinois, that was great. Coach Ward is a very cool guy. He's down to earth and then, he was telling me that he'd really like me to stay home. Illinois is a great place and I played great there too."
This year, with his hand healthy, Millender should have a big season, and he hopes that brings about more schools recruiting him.
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Wednesday
