RINGGOLD, Ga. -- If his football career doesn't work out, Martez Eastland might try acting someday as a career.
The prolific Ringgold High School running back committed Sunday to play football at the University of Mississippi after passing a weekend audition with flying colors.
Unlike most Southeastern Conference recruits right before national signing day, Eastland did not have an official offer when he left Ringgold on Friday. However, after meeting with Ole Miss coaches and wowing them in a few impromptu drills, Eastland was offered a scholarship and accepted on the spot.
"The staff was great," said Ringgold coach Robert Akins, who accompanied Eastland on the trip. "Coach (Houston) Nutt met with us and Martez went straight to the weight room. He then went outside, and the quarterback who will likely start next year was throwing some. Martez got involved and he caught everything. (Assistant coach) Danny Nutt came up to me and said right away, 'We've got to have him.'"
Eastland is Ringgold's all-time leading rusher with just over 4,000 yards. He ran for 1,561 this past season and 1,531 as a junior. The 6-foot, 225-pounder also considered North Carolina, Georgia Southern and Murray State and received offers also from Brigham Young, Utah State and Illinois. At Ole Miss he will likely split time between H-back and running back, according to Akins.
"They loved his versatility and they think he can come in and play this fall," Akins said. "He really impressed them."
Eastland, who also visited North Carolina last week, knew he had one chance to make a good impression and wasn't about to let the opportunity get away.
"Yeah, I guess I caught their attention," he said. "I had a good time and the coaches were great. I believe if I can get bigger and stronger I'll get a chance to play early."