Auburn 'still up there' for Jibunor

AUBURN | Richard Jibunor made a last-minute decision to visit Auburn on Saturday.

The four-star athlete from Athens (Ga.) Christian had previously planned to visit Florida, but had a change of plans.

“The (Auburn) coaches really wanted me to be here, so I had to come,” Jibunor said.

And he’s glad he did.

“It was awesome,” Jibunor said. “I saw what I was expecting.”

Jibunor watched as Auburn beat Ole Miss, 44-23. He watched as Auburn’s defense held Ole Miss to a first-half field goal and 10 points through three quarters.

“They were great defensively,” Jibunor said. “They were incredible. Everyone on the first-team stepped up. They were really good.”

Jibunor spoke to Gus Malzahn, defensive coordinator Kevin Steele, defensive line coach Rodney Garner and area recruiter Travis Williams. The coaches didn’t mince their words.

“They asked if I was ready (to commit) and said they were waiting,” Jibunor said. “They really want me to come here, and that’s a blessing. It makes me feel happy.”

Jibunor isn’t ready to announce a commitment. He’s still considering Auburn, Florida and Tennessee. He plans to take an official visit to each of his three finalists before making his decision.

But he’ll make it sooner than later.

“By the grace of God, I want to commit before December because I am going to sign in December,” Jibunor said. “I’m not an early enrollee. I just want to sign and get it over with.”

Jibunor named Auburn his top school after visiting for the season opener, but has since recanted. He still doesn’t list a favorite, but said, “Auburn is still up there.”

Rivals ranks Jibunor the No. 17 athlete in the 2018 class and No. 35 overall player in Georgia.