Any big difference with recruiting in D1A than with the lower divisions?

There are different levels (Elite, BCS, the rest) that give advantages over other teams. Also you are able to see everyone, so it's a little more difficult to gage where you stand in get table guys. Everyone has money.

yep.

First of all, note that every recruit is in your vision. You can recruit anyone- but that doesn't mean it is wise to.

I see you're at Houston, which is where I happen to be. You're gonna have to deal with elites- LSU and Texas and sometimes, OU. It is hard to fight those guys off of your targets, especially with no kind of bowl money your first year. In an area as rich as Houston, you can stay within your 180 and easily build a good program, even if some of your top targets are getting sniped by UT, LSU, and A&M.

Don't be afraid to battle, but don't be too trigger happy. It's the same at all levels, know how to pick your battles, but at D1 it can be much more devastating if you pick the wrong one.

Potential is still important at D1, especially for a midmajor, but it's not nearly as crucial as it was at the lower levels. Guys with average potential can be very productive at this level because there is a lot less growth for them to do.

Other than that, a lot of the same principles still apply. It'll be trial and error as you navigate through the elites and battles, but you'll figure it out quickly.

You really need to keep your ego in check at a non-elite. You can blow your whole recruiting budget trying to "defend your turf" from an elite or "get a difference-maker." Then, after Texas or LSU signs the guy, you realize you could have had four pretty good players for what you just spent on their recruit. Devote more resources to scouting, especially in the first cycle, and go after high-potential guys who are a bit lower down the ratings list.

Remember the Bowl money. It can be a big deal.