HS FOOT: Crespi's Shanks leaning toward Northern Arizona

Austin Shanks, a running back/return specialist from Crespi High of Encino who is perhaps the San Fernando Valley's fastest football player, could soon commit to Division I-AA Northern Arizona, according to Crespi coach Jeremiah Ross.

"I think he'll end up committing there. He has taken a visit, and I think he feels most comfortable there," Ross said. "There are some DI schools interested, too, like San Jose State and Colorado, but Northern Arizona wants him in an every-down role. He'll have to earn out, but I think at Northern Arizona he can be on the field all the time It's his No. 1 choice right now."

gerry.gittelson@dailynews.com