@cert_dbj
RB Recruit Butler: 'What Separates Ole Miss from Everybody is Their Energy'
Ole Miss made a strong first impression on Derrick Butler to the point he returned to Oxford just days later for his second trip.
The string of treks for the Mobile (Ala.) Davidson running back recruit came with the usual, campus tours, photo shoots and of course the inevitable comparison to fellow Alabama running back Quinshon Judkins, but it was the people in and around the program that impressed the rising-senior recruit most.
"Took a visit there and attended their spring game," he told The Grove Report. "It went very well, everyone around their has a positive view on life and incredible energy. My first impression was everyone wanted to be there, they were thrilled to be able to call themselves Rebels.
"I've noticed every college campus has nice buildings, what separates Ole Miss from everybody is their energy. They are the most energetic school I've met so far."
A 6-foot, 190-pound running back who has options to play other positions throughout his 10 scholarship offers, Butler rushed for more than 1,300 yards and 16 touchdowns as a junior in 2022.
Kevin Smith views him at running back and an offer was extended in early March.
"He (Smith) is telling me that they are very interested in me and my skillset and they would love for me to join the rebel family," Butler said.
The time at the Grove Bowl helped Butler gain perspective on Lane Kiffin's program and the support behind it.
"The fans are the fuel for their energy, at their spring game I noticed the fans hyping up their players every second away," he said. "Even if it was a field goal attempt their fans brought the energy, which in result gets the players pumped and it started to show on the field as the game progressed."
Butler is taking his time with the recruiting process at this point, though his stock has steadily risen through the New Year. Ole Miss has one running back commitment on board via in-state star Chris Davis Jr.
Want the latest in breaking news and insider information on the Rebels? Click Here.
Follow The Grove Report On Facebook and Twitter.
Want even more Ole Miss Rebels News? Check out the SI.com team page here