By Scott Hayes

Staff Writer

LEBANON — Jacob Bennett didn’t need much time to decide where he wanted to play college football.

Bennett, a 6-foot-6, 275-pound offensive tackle at Lebanon High School, verbally committed to play at Bowling Green State University last week, just a few weeks after receiving a scholarship offer from the Falcons.

“I felt comfortable there and really liked the family atmosphere that I saw at Bowling Green, so it was a pretty easy decision,” Bennett said. “I didn’t want to get into a ‘What if?’ situation.

“Bowling Green was only going to take three offensive linemen in this freshman class and I didn’t want to miss out, so I felt like I wanted to jump on the opportunity before those three spots got filled.”

Lebanon head coach Shawn Lamb said that Bennett still has room to grow and has the big frame that Division I college programs are looking for.

“Jacob has worked very hard to improve his football skills and it’s paid off for him,” Lamb said. “He has the ability to do something that a lot of kids don’t because of his size and he’s taken advantage of the gifts that God has given him.

“Bowling Green is getting a great young man who has a lot of upside. They are excited about his frame and think he has the ability to put on more weight and be an impact player in the Mid-American Conference.”

Bennett said that by committing early, he’ll be able to focus on football this fall.

“It definitely takes the stress off of me,” Bennett said. “Now, I don’t have to wait for another opportunity, I can focus on getting better and having a successful senior season.”

Contact this reporter at (513) 696-4526 or shayes@coxohio.com.