RECRUITING: Legacy’s Ricks the latest local to pick San Diego State

Randy Ricks likes San Diego weather, likes San Diego State’s plans for him as a pass rusher and likes the school’s proximity to home.

So it made perfect sense when the Legacy senior defensive end made an oral commitment Saturday to play college football for the Aztecs.

“It’s a dream school for me,” Ricks said. “I’m very excited right now, celebrating with my girlfriend. I’m excited.”

Ricks chose the Aztecs over scholarship offers from Idaho and New Mexico.

The 6-foot-5-inch, 220-pound Ricks said San Diego State envisions him as an outside linebacker.

Ricks joined a growing list of locals in the 2013 class committed to San Diego State, including Canyon Springs running back Donnel Pumphrey and Foothill receiver/safety Tyler Morris.

“For one, it’s close to where I live,” Ricks said. “Two, I love the weather. It’s the best place in the world, in my opinion.”

Ricks was a first-team All-Northwest League selection as a junior.

He figures to be a key cog on defense this season for the Longhorns (0-1), who opened the season with a 43-34 loss at Hurricane (Utah) on Friday. Legacy visits Shadow Ridge (1-1) at 7 p.m. Friday.

Ricks said his official visit to San Diego State is tentatively scheduled for December, and he hopes to take an unofficial trip to campus by next month. Signing day is Feb. 6.