Michael Barnett flips from FSU to Georgia

Georgia picked up the 22nd commitment for its 2015 football signing class Friday, benefiting from a change of heart by defensive end Michael Barnett of Ridgeville, S.C.

Barnett switched his commitment from Florida State to the Bulldogs and plans to enroll early in Athens. Georgia is the third team the 6-foot-5, 250-pounder has selected, choosing Virginia Tech last November and FSU in June.

"Georgia is closer to home," Barnett told 247Sports.com. "That's what it's all about. It's just a whole bunch of family issues."

The four-star prospect is rated the No. 10 strongside defensive end nationally by 247Sports and No. 19 by Rivals.com. Barnett had 89 tackles and seven sacks during his junior season at Woodland High School.

By landing Barnett, the Bulldogs vaulted to No. 2 in the 247Sports team rankings behind Alabama. Rounding out the top five are South Carolina, Clemson and Tennessee.

Rivals also has Alabama No. 1, followed in order by Clemson, South Carolina, Georgia and Tennessee.

Contact David Paschall at dpaschall@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6524.

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