Marshall University football's sub-varsity game wrapped late Thursday afternoon, but results beyond Hargrave Military Academy's 13-0 victory could be pending.

Such matchups allow playing time for backups, and more importantly introduce prep prospects to Marshall's campus. Hargrave standout linebacker Trevor Black has verbally committed to the Thundering Herd and could be joined by current teammates this January in Huntington.

Mutual admiration exists between Marshall and Hargrave safety Ross Madison and cornerback Ishmael Banks. Each intercepted Marshall's Mark Cann during the shutout victory at Edwards Stadium.

Along with the game, Hargrave players toured Marshall's facilities and visited with coaches and players. Black, a rangy, 6-foot-4, 205-pound playmaker is sold on Thundering Herd head coach Mark Snyder's program and is urging others to join in the prospective 2010 recruiting class.

"I talked to (Madison) and told him they're looking at you hard and he showed up," Black said. "I told everybody to play hard because they're looking to recruit."

Madison, a 6-foot, 190-pound safety from Leesburg, Va., blocked a punt and returned his interception 32 yards. Along with his sound showing, Madison was pleased with Thursday's time in Huntington.

"The coaches are real friendly," Madison said. "They make it a home atmosphere. I like what I see.

"The weight room, the facilities are state of the art. I liked everything I've seen. It's a good program. I'm still looking at schools but Marshall is looking real good right now to (continue) my football career and spend four years here."

Marshall tight end Cody Slate, a top John Mackey Award candidate, and leading tackler Mario Harvey joined the Herd from Hargrave, along with starting offensive tackle Ryan Tillman. Annual sub-varsity games continue the pipeline.

"It's something about when they come to Marshall, they love it," Hargrave head coach Ron Prunty said. (Marshall head) coach (Mark) Snyder and his staff do a great job."

Pads popped throughout Thursday's matchup, but a cordial theme also was evident.

"The players were real friendly," Madison said. "We were kind of joking and laughing out on the field. They're pretty friendly."

Also potentially leading to Madison's potential commitment to the Thundering Herd are familiarity and opportunity. Safety is a need position during recruiting season and Madison again could team with Black.

"That would be a nice comfort, playing with someone I know," Madison said. (Enrolling in January, like Black) would give me a good jump that if I come here I could get a starting job.

"I'm not really sure, but Marshall definitely is on my radar."

Anthony Hanshew covers Marshall football for The Herald-Dispatch. He can be reached at 304-526-2766. His e-mail address is hanshew@herald-dispatch.com.

AP Video