A two-year starter at Solon High School in Northeast Ohio, junior offensive lineman Austin Stock isn't used to losing.

Over the past two seasons, the Comets haven't lost in the regular season and their only setback came in last year's Division I, Region 1 final, a 28-27 loss to Glenville.

"Things have gone really well. The past two years have been like a dream," Stock said. "It's been an unbelievable team to be a part of. We have a great mindset that we can beat anyone out there. After losing to Glenville last year, I'm really glad we went undefeated again and we hope to get to the state championship this year."

This year, with the 6-foot-3, 255-pound Stock leading the way at center, the Comets are 11-0 and one game away from a rematch with Glenville, and again a trip to the state Final Four would be on the line.

But first, the Comets have to get by Austintown Fitch.

"They have good size and a fast-paced offense," Stock said. "They have a really good nose guard, so that's a good match-up against me this week. They're tough but I think we can take them."

Last season, Stock played right tackle then moved over to center this year.

It's his size, technique and versatility that already have caught the attention of college football coaches.

Though he has yet to collect his first scholarship offer, Stock has heard from most of the Midwestern powers and Boston College, Stanford and Syracuse.

This season he has visited Ohio State, Penn State, Michigan and Notre Dame.

Stock's visit to Ohio State wasn't his first, but this time around he had the opportunity to see inside the Buckeyes football program.

"It's always been a pleasure going there. It's a beautiful campus, very big, and I love the football team," he said. "Coming from Ohio, I've always wanted to play for them my whole life."

During the trip, Stock met with offensive line coach Jim Bollman.

"I met him and coach (Jim) Tressel and the wide receivers coach," Stock said. "We just talked about football and my season."

Stock was at Penn State for the Michigan game, attended the Wolverines' home opener and was in South Bend for the Irish's game against Western Michigan.


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