Long Branch's Brodie Chooses Rutgers

Long Branch's senior offensive lineman Ryan Brodie has chosen Rutgers as the school where he will continue his academic and athletic career.

The 6-foot-5, 270 pound Brodie had narrowed down his choices to the University of Connecticut and Rutgers, but Brodie said the Scarlet Knights were the best fit for him.

"I just felt more comfortable at Rutgers," Brodie said. "As the choice narrowed down it got more difficult."

Brodie announced his decision at Long Branch High School on Wednesday afternoon with his mother and father and coach Dan George at his side.

"The two schools were solid fits, but he went with his heart," George said. "The future is very exciting for him at Rutgers."

Brodie follows in the footsteps of his former teammate and friend Miles Shuler, who is currently playing wide receiver for Rutgers.

He said playing with Shuler again "will be a bonus," but that it was not what made him choose to play at Rutgers.

Brodie is one of the highest ranked recruits in the state and is a 3-star recruit according to ESPN.com.

He helped pave the way for a 1,000-yard rushing season for junior tailback Dwight Clark, who should be highly-recruited next year as well.

Now, he will be paving the way for a solid group of running backs at Rutgers and providing protection for the team's young quarterbacks.