4-star CB Smith Snowden is staying home, commits to Utah

Lehi (Utah) Skyridge four-star cornerback Smith Snowden had options around the country, but ultimately his decision came down to a pair of in-state programs: BYU and Utah.

On Monday, the Utes won out in the race to land him, as Snowden announced for Kyle Whittingham and Co.

“It was a really tough decision for me, honestly,” he told On3. “I’m an in-state guy with BYU and Utah — two great programs. My dad actually played at BYU and knows everyone on that coaching staff. So it was a hard decision, but at the end of the day I thought Utah was the best decision for me and my family.

… Utah right now is just so close to greatness, and with that being said, a playoff and a national championship. And I think they’re one or two classes away from being there.”

The No. 384 overall prospect in the On3 Consensus has seen up close the consistency and success the Utes have had, including back-to-back Pac-12 titles and consecutive appearances in the Rose Bowl. But he’s also seen the culture that’s been built in Salt Lake City.

“It’s a big deal,” he said of Utah’s success. “The culture Coach Whittingham built there is just incredible, and it’s something I want to be a part of. … Just being part of that culture and winning games in the state of Utah where I’m from. I want to be developed and hopefully leave a legacy like Clark Phillips and Jaylon Johnson have.”

Connection with Sharrieff Shah is a big one for Snowden

One of the biggest selling points for Snowden when it came to staying home was the opportunity to play for defensive backs coach Sharrieff Shah, who has developed a number of NFL prospects during his tenure. Snowden wants to get to that level, and he sees Shah as a man who can help get him there.

“He’s a good coach and a great dude off the field as well. And that what kind of stands out to me the most. When it comes to football, the proof is kind of in the pudding with all the NFL DBs they have in the league right now.”

The duo have bonded over their love of the craft, and Smith Snowden believes he can help Utah reach new heights while the coaching staff does the same for him.

“Coach Shah is big on technique and being a technician, and that’s how I am,” he added. “We talked about how I’m good right now, but he can make me even better. And that’s what stood out to me most about him and the program in general. I want to become the best version of myself on and off the field, and I think they can help me do that.”