Royal’s Blanks Chooses Cal Over Colorado

Not even the persuasiveness of longtime friend M.J. Nelson could induce Royal High’s Ralph Blanks to attend Colorado. Instead, Blanks, a 6-4, 185-pound defensive back, has verbally committed to play next fall at Cal.

Blanks, who said he will sign a national letter of intent Wednesday, chose Cal over Colorado after meeting last weekend with Cal Coach Bruce Snyder. Blanks, who also was a running back at Royal, will play defense for the Bears and will run track.

The chance to play in the Pacific 10 swayed Blanks to Cal.

“I like Cal for its academics, because it’s closer to home and it’s in the Pac-10,” Blanks said Thursday.

Blanks rushed for 690 yards, averaged 6.5 yards a carry and scored five touchdowns.

Ron Simmons, Kennedy’s two-time All-City lineman who has committed to BYU, said he will play offense only for the Cougars. Simmons was a two-way starter at Kennedy.

“BYU is the best place for me. They want me for offense,” he said.