Defensive tackle Teko Powell, one of the top prospects in the Class of 2012, committed to play football at Illinois on Thursday. Powell was originally recruited by former Fighting Illini head coach Ron Zook, but he maintained his interest in the school after meeting with new head coach Tim Beckman recently.

Even though their last coach had recruited me, I still liked them. I made a connection with their coaches and D-linemen. I like that I can come in and be a part of the rotation as a freshman, so that was kind of a good to me.

The 6-foot-2, 250-pound Powell was heavily recruited throughout the country. After playing his high school football in Miami, Florida, he received major interest from that area. Beyond Illinois, he received offers from Florida, Florida State, LSU, Wisconsin and Louisville, among others.

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