TAMPA - Former Middleton High standout defensive back Sherod Murdock seems to be leaning a little bit more toward Pittsburgh after cancelling his scheduled official visit to Alabama this weekend. He intends to make a final decision sometime next week.

Murdock’s situation become complicated last month after Alabama coach Mike Shula was fired. Shula heavily recruited Murdock, but the longer Alabama waited to replace its coach, committed players began to explore other schools. Even though Nick Saban eventually replaced Shula, Murdock still entertained his options.

Last weekend, Murdock visited the University of Pittsburgh and fell in love with the school. Murdock had not spoken much with Saban, but conversely, Chris Ball was named Pittsburgh’s new secondary coach after spending the last four seasons with Alabama. Ball actively recruited Murdock prior to Saban’s arrival, and their familiarity could sway the athlete’s decision.

Murdock said despite not visiting Alabama, the Crimson Tide is still in contention.

“I’ve been to the campus twice, and I think Coach Saban is supposed to call me sometime this weekend,” Murdock said. “I can make a decision [without ever meeting Saban] because I’ve done my research, and I’ve talked to people who have played for him and know him. They say he’s a good guy, a defensive guy, and I trust their opinion ... I will think about it this weekend and come to a decision hopefully by the middle of next week.”