RECRUITING: Gorman OL Gates selects Nebraska

Bishop Gorman senior offensive lineman Nick Gates made an oral commitment to Nebraska on Friday, Gaels football coach Tony Sanchez confirmed.

Gates' commitment is nonbinding, and the first day he can sign a letter of intent is Feb. 5. Nebraska's coaches cannot comment until that time.

Gates announced his decision on Twitter, posting "I've decided to commit to The Nebraska CornHuskers!!" 

The 6-foot-5-inch, 270-pound Gates was a first-team all-state selection after helping the Gaels to their fifth consecutive large-school state championship and had nearly 20 scholarship offers.

Gates visited Nebraska in November and selected the Cornhuskers over Arizona, Oregon and Texas A&M. He canceled an official visit to UCLA scheduled for this weekend.

Gates is rated as a four-star prospect by Rivals.com and the No. 24 offensive tackle in the country. He stood out during practices for the Semper Fidelis All-American Bowl this month at Carson, Calif., and has been climbing in recruiting rankings since. 

Gates is also a first baseman and pitcher for Gorman's baseball team. Gates hit .372 with six home runs and 34 RBIs and went 3-1 with a 3.64 ERA last season as the Gaels reached the Division I state title game. In October, Gates said Arizona was the only school recruiting him for both sports.