Coaches who get too wrapped up in recruiting ratings can potentially overlook the need to prepare players properly once they get into a program.

At least that might be the approach Mike Sherman takes after the Texas A&M coach signed a class that was ranked as the worst of four he's brought in for the Aggies.

A&M was still positioned a respectable 27th nationally by Rivals.com on signing day after a late push enabled the Aggies to move up seven spots from the rating they carried into the final weekend of recruiting. Two late additions, cornerback Floyd Raven of Reserve, La., and linebacker Brandon Alexander of Brenham, Texas, bolstered the class.

"I have a four-part equation that I go to," said Sherman, who guided the Aggies to a 9-4 finish and a berth in the Cotton Bowl. "I rate skill. I rate talent. I rate character and then their academic prowess. Can they graduate from Texas A&M? A lot of times, recruiting services go strictly by the numbers and what (players have) done on the field."

Attention was placed on defense with the signing of six linebackers, including two junior college transfers, Johntel Franklin and Donnie Baggs, who are already enrolled and will participate in spring drills.

Alexander will move to linebacker after playing defensive end in high school, and also figures to compete for immediate playing time. The only in-state recruit ranked higher than Alexander was Joseph Creek, an offensive lineman who also enrolled early.

If any concerns arose from the class A&M signed it was the addition of just one running back, a position Sherman conceded was thin.

Sherman estimated at least nine newcomers will contribute right away. That would match the number of true freshman A&M used this past season as they blossomed late to help the Aggies win six straight games to close the regular season and finish 6-2 in the Big 12.

TOP OF THE CLASS

LB Brandon Alexander (Brenham High, Brenham, Texas) -- Played just one season at Brenham after transferring from Louisiana Prep in Opelousas, La. Was in on 59 tackles and five sacks while playing defensive end as a senior. Called "lightning quick" by his high school coach, Glen West.

OT Joseph Cheek (Seguin High, Seguin, Texas) -- Massive (6-7, 271) lineman who enrolled early and figures to compete for playing time as a freshman. Father, Louis, played for A&M under Jackie Sherrill and then four seasons in the NFL. Allowed no sacks as a senior, with 24 pancake blocks.

PK Taylor Bertolet (Exeter Township High, Reading, Pa.) -- Regarding by Rivals.com as the top prospect nationally among kickers. Longest boot as a senior was 46 yards, and he made 4 of 6 field goals. Made a pair of 60-yarders at A&M's camp. Made the game-winning field goal at the Under Armour All-America game.

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