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Daily Bull 5.9.17: Early Signing Period Primer

What does all this mean for me, the consumer?

High School Football: National Signing Day-Mack Wilson Butch Dill-USA TODAY Sports

Morning, folks. For all you recruitingheads out there, some big news broke yesterday with the early college football recruit signing period becoming official. For early enrollees, it’s just a formality so that they can “officially” “sign” with their chosen schools during a 3-day window in December just before bowl games. This year it’s December 20th-22nd. For recruits not enrolling early, it’s the opportunity to not have to be a recruit for an extra five weeks or so, which may or may not be a perk depending on perspective. There’s no telling yet just how big an impact it will have, or how many recruits will decide to pull the trigger early.

BUT HOW DOES IT AFFECT ME, THE FAN?

Good question. It’s not about the student-athlete, but more about Joe Keyboard out there slamming out stark-raving missives in all caps.

CAN I TWEET AT THIS KID NOW IN DECEMBER?

The all-important question. Yes, we suppose. Since the kid is no longer technically a “recruit,” thousands of rabid college football fans can bypass whatever marginal shred of conscience they may have left and tweet creepy shit directly at these guys a whole month and a half earlier than if they’d normally have to wait until national signing day.

WILL EARLY SIGNING PERIOD BE TELEVISED?

Probably, in some way.

SO CAN I CANCEL MY PAY SITE SUBSCRIPTION A MONTH EARLY NOW?

You shouldn’t be paying for recruiting information anyway. Shame on you.

CAN I BATHE IN THE TEARS OF MY RIVAL LOL AN EXTRA TIME IF WE BEAT THEM IN EARLY SIGNING PERIOD?

If you’re the type of person who claims victories in recruiting, then sure, knock yourself out, Champ.

WHO BENEFITS THE MOST FROM THIS NEW RULE?

Alabama.

CAN THE EARLY SIGNEES PLAY IN THE BOWL GAME?

Excellent question!

[scans Texas A&M LB depth chart, looks at rules closely]

Shit. No. Sorry.

IS THIS MERELY THE FIRST PHASE IN AN ELABORATE PLAN TO ERADICATE COLLEGE FOOTBALL’S RELIANCE ON THE FAX MACHINE WITH REGARDS TO RECRUITING?

Hopefully.

CAN TEXAGS MAKE EVEN MORE DOCUMENTARIES NOW ABOUT RECRUITS THAT END UP IN AUSTIN?

Sure. As many as they want.