Bembry motivated/impressed with Vols
The time was last summer. The place was Rocky Top. Atlanta, Georgia defensive end Marquez Bembry was just starting to see his recruitment get off the ground. At the time, he held very few offers and was yet to receive one from Tennessee. Fast forward to earlier this month where the Peach state product currently holding an offer from the Vols says he saw his game and recruitment transform last fall.
"I'd say the difference in my game is my ability to be aggressive in getting off the ball," Bembry said. "Now I'm working to get bigger, faster and stronger. I worked to gain weight and I finished off the season with 18 sacks."
A big fish playing for the Mt. Vernon Christian School, Bembry says he brings so much to the table at 6-foot-3 and 210 pounds. He knows he'll need to get bigger to play along the defensive line in college, but he also has enough versatility to play multiple positions at the next level.
"I saw a lot of it pick up because of my speed coming off the blocks," Bembry said. "Not every defensive end has that kind of speed and I'm blessed with it. Just being able to be different changed my game."
In Knoxville for junior day, Bembry got a different look at Tennessee compared to last summer. It was a good chance to see things that not only impressed him, but also push him to strive for greatness.
"The visit went great," Bembry said. "I got to see some things that I didn't get to see during the summer. It's a great environment to come and be a part of something with other great athletes. I was really impressed by the Peyton Manning room. How they have the stuff from his record setting touchdown pass. They had his jersey, cleats and gloves. When you see that you get motivated."
One reason, he likes Tennessee is defensive line coach Steve Stripling. The veteran coach that has made a living at developing good lineman through his career made things clear to Bembry said.
"Coach Stripling is a great guy," Bembry said. "I love him and his message to me was stay in the weight room and continue to get faster and stronger. At the end of the day, let everything take care of itself."
As for a decision, Bembry isn't sure, but says he plans on taking his time to make sure he makes the best decision possible for his future.
"I'm going to take my time for sure," Bembry said. "I'm going to get around and see other schools and just leave it up to God. Pray about things and let him take care of things. What I'm looking for is who's defense I can fit in the best. Be a part of a team with great guys."