Auburn football: James Smith and Qua Russaw commitment timeline

There are less than two weeks left until the early national signing period begins on December 21, and Auburn football is hoping to earn the commitment of several top-notch recruits, including the top two prospects out of the state of Alabama.

From the beginning, both 5-star defensive lineman James Smith and 5-star edge rusher Qua Russaw have been high priority targets for the Auburn football program. The pair confirmed some time ago that they would be a package deal, meaning they would ultimately commit to the same program.

Despite Alabama leading the race for the prospects throughout their recruitment, the pair spent a lot of time on the Plains this season, visiting and enjoying the game day experience in Jordan-Hare Stadium after knocking out their official visits over the summer, and Russaw has been especially vocal about the Tigers’ strong chances of landing their commitments.

With the clock winding down, here’s how things are looking for the rest of their commitment. The defensive lineman and edge took their official visit to Alabama this past weekend, finishing up their visits. They officially visited Georgia in June, and Florida in October.

Tonight, Monday night, the Florida Gators staff will be visiting in-home with Smith and Russaw. Then, Wednesday, it’s Auburn football’s turn, and Hugh Freeze will be joined by Zac Etheridge, Christian Robinson, and and new defensive line coach, Jeremy Garrett to give their final pitch, per Auburn Live.

On Thursday, Nick Saban and Tide staffers will take home visits with the duo, finishing things off until the 21st later this month. Again, Alabama is the favorite to land the Montgomery pair, but the Tigers have pushed hard for the pair, especially Qua Russaw, all season long. Will it pay off with a commitment? We’ll have to wait until signing day to know for sure.