Chizik checks on five-star prospect

A number of assistant coaches have prowled the sidelines at Thomas County Central games this fall to see defensive end Ray Drew in action. But so far, Auburn’s Gene Chizik is the only head coach to make an appearance.

Drew, who is rated a five-star and the nation’s No. 1 strong-side defensive end by 247Sports.com, said he was only able to wave at Chizik but definitely appreciated him being there.

“He’s the only head coach I’ve seen so far,” Drew said. “I told some people that Coach Chizik was coming and they didn’t believe me. Then when he showed up they were like, ‘Wow.’

“It is a special moment when you have a head coach come out and see you.”

The 6-foot-5, 250-pound Drew remains wide open in his recruitment but has set up his first official visit to LSU for this weekend. The Tigers host Tennessee Saturday.

Drew plans to attend the Georgia-Vanderbilt game in Athens Oct. 16 and also wants to attend games at Auburn, Alabama, Florida and Georgia Tech later this fall.

Drew has more than 50 scholarship offers. He plans to hold off on a decision until close to Signing Day.