Keaton Bates commits to SMU

It is safe to say that Chad Morris' first weekend of live recruiting period since the end of dead period has been a rousing success, with SMU picking up three commits on Sunday morning.

The first, two-star Arlington Lamar offensive tackle Keaton Bates, spoke with the HillTopics about his decision.

'It's a good day today. I really believed in coach Morris's plan. I believed in his vision," Bates said. "SMU has a very good business program, I can come home whenever I want and get a home-cooked meal from my dad. He was out there with me and when I told him, he broke down. It was very emotional. He went through process himself and he was just so happy for me. I called my mom too and she was really happy too."

Bates said that Morris seemed "surprised" by the news, expecting that Bates would take more time to make his decision even though the senior said, "I thought I dropped few hints!"

Morris and offensive line coach Dustin Fry both think that Bates is a good fit for the team's offense.

"They think I'll fit in well. Coach Fry sees a bright future for me there. I was one of the top guys they targeted."

While on his official visit this weekend, Bates was amazed by what he saw on the Hilltop.

"It was one of the most gorgeous campuses I've ever seen. The business major school is beautiful. It's not an enormous campus, not a tiny campus. You can get around pretty easily and see some beautiful sights on the way!"

Bates was excited by the news that Robinson outside linebacker Matt McNew and Katy Taylor safety Rodney Clemons also decided to commit.

"A lot of guys committed today. It was a big day for SMU football. It was good for the school and the program. I liked a lot of the guys and teammates. I met a few of them and they make you feel at home."

Bates' student host was new SMU quarterback Ben Hicks, who graduated from Waco Midway last month and is already enrolled at SMU. Bates said he and Hicks "absolutely" already started building the chemistry necessary for a quarterback and an offensive lineman.

"I always like blocking for a good teammate. I got a great vibe from him. He says classes are not terrible, very doable. That was good to hear."

Bates had other offers from Bucknell, Louisiana-Monroe, Navy, New Mexico State, Stephen F. Austin and UTEP but thinks that most other recruits should be able to see what SMU has to offer.

"I don't think anybody has any better to offer. I mean, with a great major, great teammates, great coaches, great players, beautiful campus, close to home. For me, it felt like maybe it's meant to be."

Bates plans to enroll as soon as he graduates this spring.