After de-committing from Pittsburgh in the middle of December, Atco (N.J.) Winslow Twp. athlete Bill Belton became a major target for the Nittany Lion coaching staff.

On Monday night, the coaches got the news they've been waiting to hear, as Belton gave his verbal commitment to recruiting coordinator Mike McQueary during an in-home visit.

"Coach McQueary is just a great guy," said Belton. "The biggest thing between me and him that sold me on Penn State was his honesty about everything. That shows me that I can trust and play for a guy like that. That was very big with me and he came in and talked to my parents and they felt the exact same way."

Of course, there is another coach at Penn State that is attractive to recruits as well.

"It's a great honor to play for him," said Belton, in reference to Penn State head coach Joe Paterno. "That guy is a living legend and that is very big for me. I'll be doing everything I possibly can to get the job done."

Listed at 5-foot-9, 191-pounds, Belton was an explosive player for Winslow Twp., passing for 2,167 yards, while rushing for another 1,003. He combined for 34 touchdowns in all during his senior season, fitting a similar role to a current Penn State player.

"They see me fitting in where Curtis Drake is playing now," Belton said. "A little bit of nickel back maybe, but not too much, mostly as a slot receiver and an offensive weapon."

Belton went on to add that Penn State is considering him as a nickel back for depth reasons only.

Although he hasn't visited Penn State since his sophomore year, Belton does plan on visiting Happy Valley with his family next weekend.

"If the weather is right, me and my folks will be heading up there next weekend," said Belton. "I'm just looking forward to everything; I just can't wait to experience everything that everyone has been telling me."

Belton was the 247th ranked player overall, the 25th best athlete and No. 8 in the state of New Jersey according to Rivals.com.