Gwinnett Daily Post

Photo by Brandon Brigman

The latest in a long line of Division I-A linemen from the Brookwood football program made his college decision official over the weekend.

Rising senior Blake Fussell accepted an offer from Air Force roughly a week after visiting the Falcons' Colorado Springs campus. He is the second Bronco to make a college commitment, joining Andre Sims, who committed to Michigan State.

"I'm very excited to serve my country and get a great education at the same time," the 6-foot-2, 280-pounder said. "I like the set-up out there, the coaches, the facilities, the education and a guaranteed job when you graduate."

Fussell was a key two-player last season for the Broncos, helping them to the second round of the Class AAAAA playoffs. He is expected to play both offensive and defensive tackle again this season, though Air Force recruited him on the offensive side of the ball.

His commitment continues the trend of Air Force dipping into Gwinnett County for football talent. The service academy has signed at least one Gwinnett senior for the past seven years, including three this past February.

Fussell may be joined by more Gwinnettians between now and 2011 National Signing Day. The Falcons' 2010 recruiting class featured Grayson's Joseph Champaign, Peachtree Ridge's Willie Udofia, Shiloh's Eugene Glenn and Apalachee's Jon Lee, from nearby Barrow County.

"Going to play college ball at the Division I level is every high school senior's dream," Fussell said.