Recruiting: FAU, North Texas 2025 Target Derrick Blanche Jr. Talks College Options

Derrick Blanche Jr. is a running back in the class of 2025, currently rated as a three-star prospect by 247 Sports. He plays for De La Salle High School in Concord, California.

Blanche currently has offers from five schools, including an offer he picked up from Florida Atlantic when he was an eighth grader. In addition to FAU, Blanche currently has offers from North Texas, Maryland, Houston Christian, and Portland State. 

Blanche originally received his FAU offer from Coach Joey Thomas, who is now an assistant at the University of Texas.

FanNation Recruiting Analyst Matt Solorio caught up with Blanche after his latest high school game to get a sense of how he's currently approaching his college decision.

In addition to running back, Blanche also plays defensive back for De La Salle.

"I can play whatever they need me to play, but I would say my main position is running back," Blanche said of future college opportunities. "That's where I've found the most success."

When asked about his current lone Power Five offer at Maryland, Blanche offered this thought:

"I could see myself playing there. I haven't had a chance to go up there yet. I do plan on going to visit when I have the time. Hopefully this year I get the chance, hopefully this season or after the season. "

Blanche also indicated that he had taken unofficial visits to Texas, TAMU, Oregon, Oregon State, and Cal Poly. 

Now two games into the high school season, Blanche indicated he does not have a current front runner for his school of choice.

"Whoever gives me the opportunity," he stated. "I've been talking to Cal Poly alot. I've been in touch with Maryland a lot also. It just really comes down to after I'm done with ball, the best opportunity. School first. Focusing on school and making sure my grades are up."

The 5'8" junior is considering majoring in either sports medicine or business at this point.

When asked if he would prefer to go to a G5 or a P5 program, he simply indicated he'll make the best decision for himself when the time comes.

"I would prefer to challenge myself, I would love to go Power Five," Blanche said. "But it's really just about who presents me with the opportunity. I just really want to play ball in college. College is the main goal."