This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2012, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.

Cooper Bateman's mark as the state's most coveted recruit in the class of 2013 just earned more support.

Three more schools, including defending national champion Alabama, offered the junior quarterback a scholarship on Thursday. Pac-12 schools Arizona State and California also joined the running for Bateman. His list of offers also includes Auburn, Arkansas, Florida, Colorado, Maryland, BYU, Utah and Boise State.

Alabama head coach Nick Saban spoke to Bateman on Thursday and offered him a scholarship.

Bateman threw for 2,484 yards and 25 touchdowns last year for the 5-5 Colts.

— Bill Oram