2 commits get 4th star
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Auburn's 2016 recruiting class got a rankings boost on Wednesday.
Two of Auburn's 17 commitments received a one-star upgrade from Rivals.com.
Quarterback Woody Barrett and tight end Landon Rice now have four-star rankings from Rivals. The two Auburn commitments previously had three-star rankings.
Barrett received the bump in his ranking after a senior season in which he led West Orange (Fla.) to a 12-2 record and the 8A state semifinals.
The quarterback, who stands 6-foot-2 and weighs 220 pounds, completed 119-of-221 passes (53.8 percent) for 2,018 yards with 20 touchdowns and five interceptions.
"Barrett has always had the size and the arm strength. His struggle has been with reads and drops," Rivals.com's Rob Cassidy wrote in the rankings release. "As a senior, (Barrett) certainly progressed on both fronts and was able to lead his team to a deep run in the state playoffs."
Barrett also averaged nearly eight yards per carry, rushing for 1,413 yards and 23 touchdowns on 189 attempts.
"Barrett has a strong arm, and his massive size makes the Auburn commit a handful to bring down in the backfield," Cassidy wrote.
Rice, a standout on both sides of the ball for Calhoun (Ga.), helped lead the Yellow Jackets to 14 straight wins before a 12-7 loss to Blessed Trinity in the AAA state semifinals.
The tight end commitment had 17 receptions for 275 yards and two touchdowns this season. Rice also rushed for a 30-yard score. On defense, he entered the semifinal game with 49 tackles and five sacks. He also blocked a punt on special teams.
"(Rice) showed improved speed to go along with his excellent size," Rivals.com's Woody Wommack wrote. "(He) should be an excellent fit in the Tigers' offense."
Ten of Auburn's 17 commitments now have a four- or five-star ranking. The class currently is ranked No. 11 in the country and No. 6 in the SEC.
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Barrett's Senior Highlights
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Rice's Junior Highlights
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