I know it’s farther South than he’s considering, but he might like App State in NC. Growing sports culture (mainly football) and really popular choice for many NC students and increasingly drawing OOS. In the mountains - Boone/Blowing Rock.
I like the Butler suggestion too – my friend’s D just started there and loves it!
UCincinnati, UIowa, UMaine Orono, Michigan State (excellent for psychology), App State.
If he can get over his aversion for the South in exchange for big football, UAlabama, UTennessee, and Florida State may all work.
he should look into *criminology, not criminal justice, which is a vocational major for students who hope to become Law Enforcement officers (police, corrections…) and is not considered a rigorous major.