4-star QB Jake Merklinger sets his commitment date

Savannah (Ga.) Calvary Day quarterback Jake Merklinger has seen all he needs to see. After taking visits to Georgia, Michigan State, North Carolina and Tennessee this month, the four-star is ready to announce his commitment.

On Thursday (March 30) at 12:05pm ET, the No. 66 prospect in the On3 Industry Ranking will commit to the Bulldogs, Spartans, Tar Heels or Vols.

“I am ready,” Merklinger told On3. “These visits were crucial. I went in open-minded. I knew I would commit if it felt right, and I wouldn’t if didn’t. After the four visits, I sat down with family, prayed about it and made the decision Sunday night.”

Merklinger had important criteria that his finalists — and the place he’ll ultimately commit to — had to meet for him to come to a decision.

“It came down to where I fit in the best at,” he added. “It felt like a home away from home. It’s a place I felt wanted, and I have a great relationship with the coaches. I enjoyed the people there, and I think this is the place that can get my game to the highest level.”

The decision wasn’t an easy one for him, he says. He went back and forth two or three times before ultimately deciding on one programs.

“I have not let schools know of my decision yet,” he said. “I am keeping things quiet and will be ready to reveal everything on Thursday. “

Merklinger talks his final four schools

Ahead of decision, Merklinger broke down what stands out about each of his top schools:

Georgia: “They’re winners. The visit was phenomenal. I love Coach Smart, and I had great conversations with the coaches. Coach Bobo is very genuine, and I like that the QBs get a lot of reps and opportunities.”

Michigan State: “They were my first offer, they’ve been recruiting me the longest, and it just felt like home. I have a great relationship with Jay Johnson, and Coach Tucker has proven he can be successful there.”

North Carolina: “They came in a little late but they’ve really picked things up. I like Coach Brown, it’s close to home, and they offer a great education. They’ve had a lot of success with QBs.”

Tennessee: “I have a great relationship with the staff, and I love their quarterback development. Seeing Hendon Hooker’s growth under Josh Heupel was awesome. And what else can you say about playing in the SEC in front of 100,000 fans?”