The atmosphere, coaches and the feeling of success.

These are the reasons Opp senior Justin Adkins signed his name on the dotted line Thursday afternoon to play football at Birmingham-Southern College.

Adkins, who played at wide receiver and cornerback for the Bobcats, said he talked with a bunch of schools. BSC really stood out when he went for a visit during the Panthers’ homecoming game in the fall.

“It was exciting,” Adkins said. “I liked the atmosphere.”

It wasn’t until his second visit — during a recruiting visit — that Adkins made his decision to attend and play there.

“I enjoyed all of it,” he said. “They have a real nice campus. It seems like a place where you can strive at.”

In addition to signing to play football at BSC, Adkins signed to declare his intent to enroll as a student to in one of the top liberal arts colleges in the United States.

Though he may not brag about it, Adkins is a pretty smart guy. His grade point average is right at 3.7.

Adkins said he doesn’t know what position he’ll play for the Panthers.

“I’ll more than likely play at receiver, but (BSC head football) coach (Eddie Garfinkle) said I can play at other skill positions, and at special teams, too,” he said.

BSC, a newer football school, plays in the Southern Athletic Association and is a NCAA Division III athletics college.

Adkins, who has played football ever since he can remember, said he’s been working hard for the chance to play at the next level for the past four years.

Additionally, the senior said a big weight has been lifted off of his shoulders.

“It’s a relief,” Adkins said.

Justin is the son of Matt and Dana Adkins of Opp.