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(UWIRE) TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- As if a nationally-ranked 2008 recruiting class and four of the top players committed for next year's class wasn't enough, FSU locked up one of the most talented playmakers in Chris Thompson Thursday.
Thompson hails from nearby Madison High School, the same as fellow 2009 FSU commitment Jacobbi McDaniel, and the 5-foot-9, 175-pound tailback says his teammate committing early had a lot to do with his decision.
"When I saw that (McDaniel) committed," Thompson said, "his decision really pushed me harder towards making my choice."
Thompson's commitment makes him the fifth junior prospect to pledge his allegiance to the Tribe for the class of 2009. He joins McDaniel, wide receiver Willie Downs, safety JaJuan Harley and linebacker C.J. Mizell.
All five commits are from the Big Bend area. Staying local and playing with people Thompson has played with or against the past few years was also a big part of the decision.
"It's a good feeling," Thompson said. "To know that I will be going and playing with people that I know and have been around a lot, it's a good feeling."
Thompson carried the ball last year for 2,256 yards and posted 33 touchdowns en route to a state championship for the Madison Cowboys.
With his commitment out of the way early, Thompson is looking forward to repeating as state champions this year.
"It should be a repeat," Thompson said. "We have 17 starters coming back I think. Also, we don't slack during the offseason, we're always out here working."
The four-star recruit chose the Seminoles' offer over numerous other offers from programs such as Clemson, Florida and Miami.
Although he's the son of a Gator fan, Thompson said there never really was any competition against the 'Noles to gain his commitment.
"I committed to Florida State," Thompson said. "Honestly, I knew FSU was the school for me the entire time. I was tired of holding out on my decision. I knew where I wanted to be and it was at Florida State."
Not only did the location and the impact of other local talent selecting FSU play a part in his commitment, but his growing relationship with offensive coordinator Jimbo Fisher brought Thompson to Tallahassee.
