Once thought to be a lock for Georgia, the Dematha Catholic (Hyattsville, Md.) product may be leaning towards UM

Anthony McFarland has released a loaded top 10 list featuring the Hurricanes. The 5-foot-8, 186 pound all-purpose back has built a strong relationship with the Miami coaching staff, specifically with running backs coach Thomas Brown, who he has been recruited by since Brown was at Georgia.

McFarland went as far as saying that his relationship with Brown was one similar to a “big brother, little brother” relationship. This relationship carried over to Miami from Georgia when Brown joined Mark Richt in Coral Gables.

Recently, the Hurricanes have been appealing heavily to McFarland, after a visit he took with both his mother and girlfriend. According to McFarland, the trip helped him get a better feeling for UM and the area.

“It’s nice, the campus is nice, and it’s the first school that is actually teaching me life after football,” McFarland told canesport.com. “It was a good visit for me. It’s not all about football down here. There’s the academics, job opportunities here as well as the football.”

Miami has benefitted from the bond forged by Richt, Brown and McFarland during Richt and Brown’s years at UGA. The relationship has continued to grow, showing that coaching is a major factor in the recruitment process. Based on what McFarland told canesport.com, the relationship he formed with Richt and Brown was the major contributing factor in adding Miami to his top 10 schools.

McFarland hasn’t set a specific date on his decision, but he plans on waiting and discussing his options with his family. Look for a possible announcement at an all-American game. Anthony has also taken visits to Penn State, Maryland and Alabama.

On film, McFarland is incredibly explosive. He hits the hole hard and has elite vision. His acceleration is apparent, separating from defenders in foot races to the end zone. He also is an excellent receiver.

It will be interesting to see if McFarland continues to narrow down his list of schools, or releases a numbered list in order of interest.