For some reason major colleges have been slow to discover Newberry’s excitingly fast running back Antwan Ivey.

I believe he is a Division I talent. P.K. Yonge coach John Clifford agrees. So does Ocala Trinity Catholic’s Ricky Nattiel.

Being 5-foot-7 is probably Ivey’s biggest (only?) drawback. However, as Florida’s 5-6 sophomore tailback/return man Brandon James has proved, an athlete of that size can be extremely productive at the highest level of college football. And in future seasons look for 5-8 Chris Rainey to do the same.

What I hope will matter most in the end for Ivey is his production.

Against the Panthers’ two toughest opponents of the season ” Dunnellon and Trinity Catholic ” Ivey had nearly 500 yards combined rushing. And words really can’t do justice to his entire performance ” one that included a ridiculous first-down reception on fourth down and an interception that helped seal the victory ” against the Celtics.

Though much stronger than he looks, the 185-pound Ivey may never be a full-time SEC back. But then again, will James? And even if James doesn’t, will any Gator fan ever question his worth to Urban Meyer’s offense and special teams?

Having studied recruiting for many years, my thought is that once one big school offers Ivey a scholarship, others will follow.

Shoot, once a few of them see the Trinity Catholic tape, Ivey might be fighting them off. The way he should be already.