Pitt makes top 15 of versatile athlete O’Mega Blake

Pat Narduzzi and the Pitt coaching staff made progress in the recruitment of a wide receiver and defensive back prospect late last week, as O’Mega Blake out of South Pointe High School in Rock Hill, South Carolina, placed the program among his top 15 contenders.

The 6’2”, 188-pound athlete is considered a three-star recruit, according to Rivals and 247Sports, and he holds a total of 32 offers, many of which come from Power Five programs. On Thursday, Blake cut more than half of his suitors from consideration. The 15 finalists for his services include East Carolina, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas State, Kentucky, Michigan State, NC State, Penn State, Pitt, Syracuse, Tennessee, Texas Tech, UNLV, Virginia and Virginia Tech.

Georgia Tech was the most notable cut, as it was the only Power Five program to be eliminated after offering Blake. And while he cut one Southern team, he received an offer from another the day after his list was released, as Ole Miss officially threw its hat into the ring for the skilled recruit as well.

During his junior season at South Pointe High School, Blake showed promise at multiple positions, but he shined brightest at receiver. Over the course of a 10-1 campaign, Blake caught 38 passes for 800 yards and three touchdowns. In addition, he tacked on 353 rushing yards on 39 carries and scored one more touchdown on foot.

The year before that, Blake was a defensive standout, as he came up with four interceptions during a sophomore season in which South Pointe went 10-2. That year, he also put in time on special teams and saw light action at quarterback and running back.

Given his versatility, he could play a number of different roles at the college level, but his breakout year at receiver and his ability as a ball hawk on defense are likely what piqued the interest of Pitt and other Power Five schools. It is currently unclear if Blake intends to trim his list further or when a decision will be made.