When 2018 linebacker J.J. Peterson announced his commitment to Tennessee during the U.S. Army All-American Bowl, there was plenty of reason to celebrate for the Vols. However, Peterson hasn't yet signed on the dotted line and, in advance of National Signing Day, there is buzz that he could be waffling.
AL.com brings word from Peterson's high school coach, Rush Propst, and it doesn't paint the rosiest picture for Tennessee holding on to the top-50 overall prospect.
"Alabama has made a very strong push. I don't think either one, Alabama or Tennessee, is a clear favorite as of Sunday afternoon. I think it's a dead heat right now, 50-50."
Peterson, who hails from Colquitt County (Ga.), is the No. 3 outside linebacker recruit in the country according to the 247Sports Composite and it makes sense that there would be a battle brewing. Still, this would be a very impactful flip for Tennessee if they were to lose Peterson's commitment and it would be doubly brutal if the young man chose Alabama instead.
Only time will tell but no one in and around Knoxville can feel particularly comfortable about a very talented prospect that, just a few weeks ago, seemed to be locked up completely.
