SEC Network, ESPN’s 24-hour television channel devoted to the Southeastern Conference, debuted day-long National Signing Day coverage today, beginning at 10 a.m. ET, with a five-hour SEC Network Signing Day Special (recap video) followed by a dedicated The Paul Finebaum Show. SEC Network host Dari Nowkhah was joined by college football analysts Greg McElroy and Booger McFarland and recruiting analyst Derek Tyson in the Charlotte, NC studios. In addition to breaking down 2015 classes and players, the following reporters provided live updates from SEC campuses throughout the day: Tony Barnhart (Tenn), Cara Capuano (UGA), Kaylee Hartung (Ala), Ryan McGee (Aub), Niki Noto (LSU), Laura Rutledge (Fla) and Kayce Smith (Texas A&M).
The coverage continued with head coaching interviews and press conferences being carried either on The Paul Finebaum Show or SEC Network +. In addition, SEC Network + also carried five team specific shows produced by the respective schools.
Brief highlights from SEC Network’s coverage:
On the No. 1 recruiting class, Alabama:
“They’re not recruiting, they are choosing… Today is a stress free day for Nick Saban” –McFarland
On Missouri securing the highest rated recruit, No. 2 Terry Beckner Jr., in school history:
“He’s not just a great player, he’s a great kid. He’s got a big heart,” – Head Coach Gary Pinkel
Biggest takeaways of the day:
“The rise of Florida and Auburn,” – Tyson
“Relationships…The ability to develop relationships and facilities is the lifeline of your program,” – McFarland
“The SEC, on Signing Day, always takes the day,” – McElroy
On Auburn “Fax Watch” of No. 1 recruit Byron Cowart:
“We felt really good about it all day. This is where he wanted to be, and we knew it, and we are glad to finally have it over with,” – Head Coach Gus Malzahn
On Ole Miss “No. 1 Fan” Katy Perry’s Super Bowl half-time:
“I was really excited to see (Katy Perry) dancing on stage with the Land Shark” – Head Coach Hugh Freeze
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