West Virginia landed a 2014 commitment Friday from Baltimore-Dunbar four-star quarterback William Crest, who chose the Mountaineers over the likes of Ohio State, Maryland, North Carolina, Vanderbilt, Rutgers and Virginia Tech.
The 6-foot-2, 195-pound Crest is the nation’s No. 7-rated dual-threat quarterback, according to Rivals and “a major pickup,” said WVSports.com writer Keenan Cummings.
“West Virginia wanted to bring in a high-quality prospect at the position and Crest more than fulfills that requirement,” Cummings said. “An athletic signal caller, Crest has the ability to make plays with his legs but is equally equipped with a strong, accurate arm.
“An important aspect of his game is his leadership ability and the way he rallies his teammates. At this point Crest still needs to develop his overall game, but there are a lot of things to like.”
Crest becomes WVU’s second commitment for 2014, joining three-star receiver Ricky Rogers of Monroeville, Pa.
“Dana Holgorsen has been taking only one quarterback per class during his tenure in Morgantown and barring unforeseen circumstances, I don’t see that changing,” Cummings said. “I wouldn’t ever rule out the possibility, as several top options remain on the board, but Crest is someone that is will raise the talent level in the quarterback room.”
Dunbar High, which has won three straight Maryland Class 1A state titles — the last two with Crest under center — produced former WVU receiver Tavon Austin, along with incoming defensive end Marvin Gross.
Scout ranks Crest as the nation’s 30th-best dual-threat quarterback, while ESPN ranks him 16th at his position.