The Recruiting Carousel

It's that magical time of year where we try to celebrate with our friends and family throughout the Christmas holiday and New Years. It's also that time of year where the bowl season is about to start but this isn't about the bowls, or even specifically Big Ten bowls. No, this is about the ever changing carousel that is college football recruiting. Recruiting is a year long process, and it never stops. Think of all the times so far this year you've seen the ESPN 150 rankings come out. I'm not an expert on recruiting, nor will I ever be but this is almost becoming comical. With the advent of social media now, the general public will interact with recruits and voicing their pleasure or displeasure about their commitments. Blogs such as this one and many others will analyze and fret over a decision that one kid makes. We can never know how that kid will perform once he's on the college football field, but nonetheless fans want what they want. Here's a couple major things going on for the 2013 class at Michigan. And remember, it's all fluid until Signing Day in February.

1. David Dawson--I believe it was Sam Webb who broke the news story first, but it looks as though Dawson has recommitted to Michigan today. Now after his first verbal commit, he wanted to go check out Florida, and there were also rumors of Ohio State and Michigan State being involved in his recruitment. Now with 4* safety and Cass Tech teammate Delano Hill decommitting from Iowa, and choosing Michigan, I'm guessing that's what helped push Dawson back towards Michigan. Dawson decommitted in October after his first pledge to UM hoping to explore other visits and even told the Detroit Free Press on Wednesday he would visit Ohio State and Alabama. Those are unlikely to occur now. Brady Hoke still has the policy of not wanting verbal commits to visit other schools once they've chosen Michigan and pulling their scholarship offer, but it looks as though it'll happen anyway. What does this mean for the 2013 class? It's huge--now count Dawson, Chris Fox, Kyle Bosch, Patrick Kugler, Logan Tuley-Tillman, and even long-snapper Scott Sypniewski who could also play on the O-Line as members of the class and all but Sypniewski are 4* players. (Dawson is rated at the Rivals' No. 6 national offensive guard. Hill is the No. 23 safety nationally).

2. Derrick Green--OK so after the two recent commitments today, we're left to ask what next? With the NCAA and Big Ten rules, Michigan is still able to sign three more prospects in this class, so this can leave a lot of options for 3 spots. Obviously in everyone's mind are the prospects of getting both Green and Treadwell. Green was looking at some SEC schools, particularly Auburn...yet with Auburn hiring Gus Malzahn who prefers the spread and Green wanting a more pro-style offense, Michigan is looking better and better every day. His other top choice was Tennessee and with their recent downturn and coaching change it's iffy at best he'd end up there. Miami was also a choice but they're still dealing with NCAA violations. Keep in mind that with Toussaint's leg injury, Stephen Hopkins leaving the team, and Dennis Norfleet being moved to the secondary, Green would most certain be given playing time.

3. Laquon Treadwell--As far as Treadwell goes, I'm not even sure he knows what to do. He had an official visit with Oklahoma today, but if he came to Michigan he'd be a boost to a wide receiving corps that already lacks in depth. Michigan was once the leader on his list, but recently Ole Miss, Oklahoma, and Oklahoma State have also entered the picture and seem to be higher on his list. There are still 3 WRs committed in 2013 with Da'Mario Jones, Jaron Dukes, and Csont'e York, but neither of those 3 bring to the table what Treadwell can. Other receiving choices are Robert Foster from Monaca, PA (4*), and Kendall Beckwith from Jackson, FL (4*). I'm not saying either one is a good possibility but Michigan has been successful in recruiting from Pennsylvania so if Treadwell doesn't work out, Foster could be a good choice. Either way, Treadwell's entire recruiting process is kind of like Cedar Point--one roller coaster after another and he can't decide which one is his favorite.

4. Leon McQuay--One of the last choices and would still make Michigan happy, is McQuay. The 5* defensive back from Florida has shown interest in Michigan, especially since he plans on majoring in music, but he's also favoring Vanderbilt, which being in Nashville also has a strong music program. One other problem is that he also has USC at the top of his list, and since Max Redfield decommitted from the Trojans, McQuay could be headed to California as well. Things don't look too promising on the Michigan side of this one, but it's not written in concrete either.

What Happens If Michigan Strikes Out On The "Big 3?"

Alright so by now you all know that Michigan is hard after the "big 3" in WR Laquon Treadwell, RB Derrick Green, and Safety Leon McQuay III.  I'm going to give a breakdown on where I think we stand with each of these guys and a recruit that I think could be a viable option and very suitable replacement for each individual.

Let's start with Leon McQuay III.  The highly coveted five-star safety out of Florida made his official visit to Michigan last weekend for the Northwestern game.  While Leon is usually very quiet, I did see some interviews that he did after his visit and it looks like he had a great time.  Obviously, the game atmosphere was huge, but if you don't know, a major factor in Leon's recruitment is the school's music program.  Michigan has a very good one and he was able to hang out with two of Michigan's current players Jack Kennedy and Joe Reynolds.  Many of the Michigan fans know them as JDK and Rey.  They are both great musicians and even have a song that plays in the stadium before games.  I think this is a huge help with Leon because he can see that he will be able to make music and the school as well as the football program will support him and help him get his name out there.  But let's not forget Michigan is battling USC, Oregon and Vanderbilt.  It will be a very tight race, but I believe Michigan will be in the conversation at the Under Armour Game on January 4th where Leon makes his decision.

More Drama With The 2013 Class?

Well as I'm sitting here in southern Maryland weathering hurricane Sandy, I figured I would talk about what seems to be an impending storm in recruiting for the 2013 class for Michigan.  I won't speak much about it, but there is some more drama with David Dawson.  If you haven't heard by now (you must live under a rock), but Michigan and Dawson decided to part ways a short time ago.  It seemed to be that Florida was in the driver's seat, but now that's not the case, or at least according to Dawson. 

Mr. Dawson has recently named a top-3 of Michigan State, Ohio State, and Wisconsin.  What many disgruntled Michigan fans see as a slap in the face, it seems Dawson seems to favor schools in the B1G.  Given his family situation, it seems fitting that he wants to stay close to home.  I believe the ribbing from a few "bad apples" in the Michigan fan base has kind of left a salt in his mouth and I believe he may be sticking it to the Michigan fans.  We will see how it plays out, but looks like he could be lining up for one of Michigan's bitter rivals.  He has said he is taking visits and look for him to make a decision at the All-American game, if not sooner.

Week 8 Predictions and Notes

It's Friday now, and it's time to focus on one of the bigger games in college football this week, and not our Detroit Tigers going to the World Series (insert big smile here). Michigan currently holds an advantage over Michigan State by a record of 67-32-5 with the last 4 won by MSU. This year, that will change. The tide will turn.

I am confident that after Saturday's matchup that I can spend a year gloating over Sparty fans, and make them long for basketball season---in which we'll beat them there again. Michigan State still has a good defense, but their offense is woefully inept to the point where it's no longer reliable. Dantonio has painted himself into a corner this week by saying the media is at fault by goading him into making anti-Michigan comments. After this game, I'm sure that "evil" alter ego will emerge yet again.

Week 4 Game Notes With Reactions To Rich Rod's Michigan Comments

1. To state that Michigan needs this win over Notre Dame is an understatement, and for multiple reasons. First, Michigan needs to win to put themselves back into the top 15. Currently, there are no Big Ten teams ranked in the top 15 for the first time in 11 years, and OSU along with MSU were the last teams holding onto the distinction. Secondly, and most importantly, it would put Michigan in good position for a BCS bowl. They are obviously out of the national title picture, but the Rose Bowl/Big Ten Championship or another BCS bowl is still within their grasp. By beating Notre Dame, that'll strengthen their quality of opponent factor and push them back into the top 15, and maybe even the 11 or 12 spot. Can they move back into the top 10? Probably not after this week, but give it time and win out from here.

2. We all know by now about Shane Morris and his case of mononucleosis. One thing that wasn't touched on was the fact that if he is out for the whole season, then more than likely he will lose that coveted 5* ranking. When that happens, and it's happened before, then Michigan's recruiting rankings will go down in points as well. Even with the possibility of getting Laquon Treadwell  in Ann Arbor, I don't think Michigan will overtake USC now in terms of the number 1 spot in overall points. In the end, it's all semantics anyway.

How To Close The 2013 Recruiting Class?

Just wanted to do a quick post on who I think the last couple spots go two in 2013.  There are many who place the scholarship limit at 24 for 2013, which leaves 1 spot.  However, I think that with these pending offseason issues, the potential for depth losses, and the chance of someone entering the NFL Draft early, I think the class will probably have 25 recruits.


The conceived options are WR Laquon Treadwell and RB Derrick Green.  These two guys are among the best at their respected positions and if one pulls the trigger before the other, I can't possibly see the coaches turning the other one away.  These kids are both top notch and have high interest in the Wolverines. I think the more likely of the two to commit first would be Treadwell even though he has a pending visit to Oklahoma State.  Derrick Green is visiting for the bbq, but I don't possibly see him pulling the trigger so soon in the process.  Still plenty of time for him to make up his mind.. 

USC Takes Over Top Spot On Rivals for 2013 Team Rankings

According to Rivals, Michigan has been surpassed in the 2013 Team Rankings.  Picking up their most recent commit today from 4-star DB Jalen Ramsey, the Trojans have passed the Wolverines.  Most say that when new individual player rankings come out in August Ramsey is likely to pick up his 5th Star.  What is incredible is that USC is operating with scholarship reductions for the 2013 class.  


Scout and ESPN have yet to update their team rankings so I'm curious to see what they do with things.  I'll give you a quick breakdown comparing each team's class as they are viewed on Rivals.  You can be the judge regarding whether you agree and I'll give my opinion at the end of which team I think has the best class.

Updated 2013 ESPN300 - Michigan Commits And Targets

ESPN has updated its football rankings and released its list of the 300 best football players for the 2013 recruiting class.  Michigan's commits and targets have filled the list.  Brady Hoke and his staff have done an excellent job in all of his recruiting classes, but Michigan's 2013 football recruiting class has been absolutely phenomenal.  


The ratings on this list are not perfect by any means, but they do give us a better understanding of these players, especially after The Opening last weekend where some of Michigan's players had some great performances.  The questions everybody seems to have had over the last week or so is where Michigan's commits and targets would end up if they performed well at the Nike Camp.  Well, some of Michigan's players did great and we can see that in the updated rankings.

Michigan Commits and Targets At The Opening

The much anticipated Nike Camp, The Opening, was this past weekend in Beaverton, Oregon. Loaded with talent, it has been said to be one of the best camps of the year, if not the best. On hand were the best high school players from all over the country, including 7 Michigan Commits and several Michigan targets.  Representing the Maize and Blue were QB Shane Morris, DB Jourdan Lewis, TE Jake Butt, OG David Dawson, DE Taco Charlton, OL Kyle Bosch, LB Mike McCray.  All of these players were there, but Kyle Bosch did leave early due to personal reasons so I won't really have much to say about him, but he did show up the first day so he deserves to be mentioned. 


Two of Team 134's members made the all-tournament team. TE Jake Butt and DB Jourdan Lewis.  Both of these guys showed up big time in 7-on-7 play and were definitely deserving of the honors.  If you pay any attention to the recruiting sites, then you will know that people are saying Jourdan Lewis's rankings should skyrocket.  I said before the tournament that he would prove he's one of the best DB's in the country and he showed it this past weekend.  Making big time plays and even an interception in the finals to gave his team a shot at the championship late in the game.  Jake Butt came up big for his team and he quickly became one of his quarterback's favorite targets.  I watched some video and he made some great plays, including a nice grab on the sideline, where he got both feet in and maintained possession.  

2013 WR Laquon Treadwell To Announce Decision Soon

With a flurry of recent announcements, it's been reported that one of 2013's most heralded wide receivers, Laquon Treadwell, will be announcing his college decision in the near future.  Although he did not name an exact time or date, he did say "my decision coming soon."  This was a little surprising since I got the sense that his recruitment would be a long one, but there's no doubt about the importance of this development to Michigan's 2013 recruiting class.  As we discussed in our breakdown of 247Sports' Top 247 Players, Treadwell is probably Michigan's most likely elite recruiting pick-up in 2013.  Michigan can certainly gain another major commitment in 2013, but Treadwell is probably the most likely.


Treadwell has been dominating several recent camps and has remained as one of the nation's elite players.  Michigan already has two wide receiver commitments in their 2013 class, Jaron Dukes and Csont'e York, and signed two wide receiver recruits in 2012, Jehu Chesson and Amara Darboh, but none of these recruits have matched Treadwell's rankings.  Yes, they may certainly outperform Treadwell in college, but if you are just going off the rankings, Treadwell would easily be Michigan's most heralded recruit since the 2009 recruiting class and probably even beyond that.

Top Priorities for 2013 Class

Photographed are current commits QB Shane Morris (left) and DB Jourdan Lewis (right).  They are just two members of the current top recruiting class in the country for the Michigan Wolverines.  But the real question that's on my mind and pretty much all Michigan fans that really follow recruiting is how does Coach Hoke close this class out.  With commit #22 coming in with Channing Stribling this week, many have the opinion that Michigan will only take 2 more recruits for this class.  


I say they take 3.  Some people don't like the commitment of Stribling, mostly because they were wanting the coaches to hold out for guys such as Kendall Fuller, Leon McQuay, etc., which makes sense, but maybe the coaches know something that we don't.  There seems to be a concensus that Fuller has Va. Tech and Clemson as his leaders and Michigan will lose out on him.  McQuay, I'm not too sure, but he seems far from making a decision.  In my opinion...trust the coaches, they know what they are doing.  So I'm going to put out a few names that I think may close the class out.

Thoughts on Michigan's Needs To Finish 2013 Recruiting Class

As we all know, things have been a bit slow lately on the recruiting front following Michigan's red hot start, but there are a few needs that the coaches still would like to fill.  I would have to say DT, WR, and RB.  Here's a few prospects at each position that I believe Michigan is recruiting very hard and would be great fits in Ann Arbor.

Henry Poggi.  Ranked 2nd at the DT position according to Rivals, and is another consensus 4-star at 6'4" and weighing 260 pounds.  He could put on a few more pounds, but he is definitely a great prospect.  He's being recruited by all of the major programs and would be a welcome addition to the class. 

Now onto WR and the person I believe is the most important person left on Michigan's board as far as needs go, Laquon Treadwell.  The top player in Illinois and for good reason.  At the 7-on-7 representing Core6 he pretty much was unguardable, also getting interceptions on the defensive side.  4-star across the board and at 6'3" 185 pounds, he's got great size and also has some good speed.  He's proven to be the best WR at every camp he goes to and has showed some solid interest in Michigan.  He has been to visit and has developed a relationship with some of Team 134 commits especially Shane Morris, which doesn't hurt.  Treadwell is one of the top WR prospects in the country and would definitely be a great "catch" for Michigan. 

Sebastian La'Rue.  At 5'11" and 185 pounds, he isn't the tallest kid on the planet, but he is very talented.  He hails out of California so it could be a difficult pull for Michigan, but is definitely on the board and has shown interest.  Hope to get him on campus this summer, but he is definitely a great prospect and would be a nice get.  However, this will largely depend on what happens with Treadwell.  He's Michigan's main WR priority and would likely fill the class.

RB. I believe the main choice is obvious and that would be monster back Derrick Green.  Derrick has shown that he wants to be in a smashmouth running style of offense and that's what Coach Hoke and company want to use at Michigan.  With the monster offensive line they have recruited, I see that happening very soon and that's why Derrick is such a very important player for Michigan to get.  He has the nickname "Man-Child" and for good reason.  At 6'0" 215 pounds the kid is a freight train and he also happens to be the top tailback in the nation according to Rivals.  He's a 5* with Rivals and a 4* with everyone else.  The recent commitment of Ty Isaac to USC definitely has forced the coaches to put on the fullcourt press.  However, I believe that Green may be the better prospect, he has more size and if you haven't watched his film, I suggest you do so because the kid is an absolute nightmare once he gets the football.  Green should be visiting soon and it will be of vital importance for the coaches to get him on board. 

Another guy that isn't one of the 3 positions that I listed, but would also be a great get for Michigan is DE Joe Mathis.  He happens to be the cousin of heavily touted CB Su'a Cravens.  Su'a is deciding on June 6th and many people have him as a USC lock.  Michigan is in the hunt so maybe we all get surprised.  Joe Mathis has been dominating camps all summer and he's 6'4" 254 pounds and has great speed and strength off the edge.  He has repeatedly shown that he's a nightmare off the edge and would be a great pickup for the Michigan coaches.  4-star across the board and is ranked 6th at his position has at one time named Michigan as his leader, but the next week named Nebraska as his leader.  Could be a long time before we see where Mathis decides to commit, but I think Michigan is in the hunt and has a great shot at landing him.  We shall see where his cousin Cravens decides to go because that could be a factor in Joe's recruitment.

Well, why not talk about Su'a Cravens.  One of the best prospects in the nation and is a 5* across the board.  He has announced he is making his decision on June 6th, which is coming up in a few days.  Many people have him as a USC lock, but I have a bit of hope he may commit to Michigan.  He has said distance isn't a factor and seemed to like the Wolverines.  He's the top ranked safety in the country and rated as the 8th overall player.  He's got great size at 6'1" 205 pounds and with an already improving secondary for Michigan he would be a phenomenal get.  Michigan is in his final three so everyone should pay attention June 6th and hopefully we get an early Christmas present.

Alright, obviously, there are plenty more prospects out there, but these are some of the names for you guys to keep your eye on.  Michigan has been recruiting them very hard as of late which tells me that they are all high on the board.  Maurice Hurst, Jr. has told everyone to be on commit watch, so hopefully he isn't the only one off of this list as these are all great players that all have interest in Michigan.

Commit #18 WR Csont'e York

Photo Credit: 247 Sports

A day after his visit to Michigan and receiving a scholarship offer, WR Csont'e York out of Chandler Park, MI pledged his commitment to the University of Michigan. He's a tall kid with 247 rating him at 6'3, with great size at 190 pounds. Runs a 4.58 in the 40, so not crazy elite speed, but as he showed in the NFTC last weekend, he can break away from defensive backs. Word is that he was a Michigan State fan, wanted to go to Michigan State but the coaches wowed him and changed his mind. I love it!

York is the 18th commit in this amazing 2013 recruiting class and the second receiver in this class along with Jaron Dukes. I like that the coaches continue to add great weapons for Shane Morris. I have to think they are going to add at least one more receiver in the class, which will probably be Laquon Treadwell. The offense with these weapons is shaping up to be something special in the future. All the major reporters say that York has an amazing ability to catch the ball away from the body with his hands, which is such a great habit. Love a guy that will go out there and get the ball. He's already built up some chemsitry with Shane Morris and I think that will continue to grow with their continued contact and as they keep going to camps in the offseason.

I'm particulary a big fan of his because he didn't wait long to pull the trigger with his commitment. He made the visit with his high school football coach, the Michigan coaches offered him, and then the next day he commits. I'm a huge fan of this. He knew what he wanted, so he made the decision. Sure, he grew up a Sparty fan, but he is now a Michigan Man. If you haven't seen his highlight tape I've added it here so you can see what type of weapon we are getting. He is rated as a 3* on most boards, but I believe as he continues to perform well at summer camps his stock will continue to rise, as well as his offer sheet so I'm glad that Michigan got him now. Going to be great in the future and a welcome addition to this group of young receivers. Welcome to Michigan, Csont'e and can't wait to see you in the Big House.

Catching up with Laquon Treadwell

freep.com

I know this is who everyone wants to hear about, so I finally got a hold of Treadwell to answer some of your guys’s questions.

Me: How was your OSU visit?

Laquon: It was real good. I liked meeting all the coaches and watching film with the players and everything. 

Me: It really looks like you’re loving the recruiting process. Doesn’t it just feel like constant road trips at this point though?

Laquon: Yes, I am. It’s really something I have to enjoy because I only get one chance at this. But yeah, it seems like I’m always on the move!

Me: A lot of Wolverine Nation is pretty upset you won’t be at the Spring Game this weekend. Are you gonna be back at Michigan anytime soon?

Laquon: I wanted to go to the Spring Game, sounds like I would get a lot of love if I did. I just had already had that visit [Oklahoma] planned. But yeah, I will be down real soon. 

Me: What everyone wants to know: when are you gonna narrow down your list? Where will Michigan be on it?

Laquon: I don't know at all [when I'm gonna narrow down my list]. Michigan will definitely be in my top list. 

You guys have to remember Treadwell is a high school kid getting a lot of love for being an incredible athlete. Just because he doesn't want to commit as early as our 17 commitments for the class of 2013 doesn't mean he's no longer interested in Michigan. It seems to be a trend with very high-profile prospects, especially wide receivers, to want to prolong the process as long as they can so they can enjoy their recruiting process. There's no blame in that. Personally, I still think we have a great shot and I do think Treadwell thinks very highly of Michigan. We'll find out sooner or later!

Michigan's Options at Wide Receiver

The 2013 class has one wide receiver committed, 3* Jaron Dukes out of Columbus, OH. This means we will take at least one more receiver and possibly two. Luckily for Michigan, the wide receivers in the 2013 class are incredible. I didn’t even realize how many spectacular ones there are until I wrote this piece. I know everyone has their hopes on Treadwell (as do I), but there are many fantastic options. What I’ve noticed the most about the guys we’re going after is their height (they’re all very tall), and their athleticism. Most of them have played and can play multiple positions, which is clearly something the coaches like. 

Michigan has multiple wide receiver recruits who are very interested, and many of the names are brand new. You’ll probably notice there’s few recruits from California, as the coaches have some pretty great connections out there. Since we’ll probably take 2 more receivers, my wish list would have to include Laquon Treadwell and Eldridge Massington, but truthfully I’d be happy with any 2 on this list. Here is a little bit about the most popular ones:

4* Laquon Treadwell

Treadwell is definitely Michigan’s #1 target at WR. Read all about him here. He will be making his FIFTH visit to Ann Arbor in the next couple weeks to check out a spring practice. Lucky #5? We can only hope. 

4* Marquez North

North is a 4* wide receiver out of Charlotte, North Carolina. He stands 6’3” and 205 pounds. Rivals ranks him 24th nationally and 3rd at his position, which makes him a prime candidate for a 5th star. He also runs a 4.48-second 40 time. He holds almost 20 offers including ones from Michigan, Auburn, Florida, Ohio State, and South Carolina. As a junior, he had over 1,000 receiving yards on 39 receptions and 19 touchdowns. He also had 400 rushing yards and 4 touchdowns. North plans on visiting Michigan in May and says he’s been hearing from the staff weekly. Getting North on campus would be huge, as it seems he has some real interest in Michigan. He has never visited the campus but does have family in Flint, MI and actually has family attending Michigan. He plans on making a summer decision. 

4* Demorea Stringfellow

Stringfellow is a 4* wide receiver out of Moreno Valley, CA. He stands 6’2” and 185 pounds, probably the ideal height the coaches are looking for in a wide receiver. Rivals ranks him 107th in the nation and 14th at his position. Stringfellow holds offers from Michigan, Arizona, Arizona State, Boise State, Nebraska, UCLA, and Washington State. Stringfellow’s recruitment will probably continue to heat up but he seems to have genuine interest in Michigan. As a junior, he had 46 receptions for 1,080 yards and 19 touchdowns. Impressive considering he started playing football in the 9th grade. Yes, you read that correctly. Michigan sees Stringfellow as an impact player who can be a big-time player on the field. Stringfellow says he has no favorites but is trying to come out to Michigan for a spring practice. It’s going to be difficult since he’s coming from California, but he’s working on convincing his parents to let him come out for an unofficial visit. 

4* Devon Allen

Allen is a 4* wide receiver out of Phoenix, AZ. He stands 6’1” and 190 pounds and he also runs a 4.4 second-40. Rivals ranks Allen 110th in the nation and 15th at his position. Allen holds over 20 offers including ones from Michigan, Arkansas, Notre Dame, Ohio State, Oklahoma, and Stanford. Allen is known as a “speedster” and is lauded for his speed more than anything. As a sophomore, Allen was named 1st team all-region after catching 60 passes for 915 yards and 6 touchdowns. As a junior, he caught 44 passes for 844 yards and 14 touchdowns and he was named all-state. Impressive, to say the least. The Michigan coaches have told him that he would probably be their deep threat, considering his speed. Allen says he doesn’t have a preference in terms of location and deciding his future school. He plans on taking a little midwest trip during his Spring Break (2nd week of April) and wants to see Notre Dame, Michigan, Ohio State, and Nebraska. Nothing is set in stone yet. He does not have a timeline but also said he’s not into the whole “picking hats” thing on Signing Day. 

4* Marcell Ateman

Ateman is a 4* wide receiver out of Wylie, TX. He stands 6’4” (wow) and 189 pounds. He also runs a 4.5-second 40. Rivals ranks Ateman 140th in the nation and 20th at his position. He holds more than 25 offers, including ones from Michigan, Arkansas, Baylor, and Tennessee. Michigan is definitely his best offer, but again, it will be hard to pry him from the south. Ateman would be a real threat on deep balls and jump balls mainly because of his height and 27.5-inch vertical. He’s admitted being a Texas fan but does not hold a Texas offer yet. Ateman says he wants to visit Michigan sometime this summer. Visiting Michigan will make a big difference in Ateman’s recruitment, as he’s not even close to making a decision. He says he wants to feel at home, and there’s no way of that happening unless he gets out to Ann Arbor. 

4* Sebastian LaRue

LaRue is a 4* wide receiver out of Santa Monica, CA. He stands 5’11” and 185 pounds. Rivals ranks him 141st nationally and 21st at his position. LaRue holds over 20 offers including ones from Michigan, Florida State, and Oklahoma. When asked about what he knows about Michigan, LaRue responded, “All I really know about them is Denard Robinson,” he replied laughing. Well, you can’t blame the guy. He also knows that we produce great players like Charles Woodson though, and LaRue is open to playing either wide receiver or cornerback at the next level. He plays both positions in high school and as a junior had almost 1,000 receiving yards and 20 touchdowns on offense, and 4 interceptions on defense. LaRue says he has no problem leaving his home-state and neither does his mom. He also said he wants to play whatever position his coach wants him to play, so he definitely seems like a team player. I think to have a shot at someone like LaRue, we need to get him out to Ann Arbor. He wants to visit so we’ll see. 

4* James Quick

Quick is a 4* wide receiver out of Louisville, Kentucky. He stands 6’1” and 180 pounds and also runs a 4.41-second 40. Rivals ranks Quick 194th nationally and 26th at his position. Surprisingly, he holds only 10 offers, but in this case, quality is better than quantity. Quick holds offers from Michigan, Alabama, Arkansas, Auburn, Oklahoma, and Tennessee. It’s worth noting that Quick is a 5* on Scout. As a junior, he had 82 (!) receptions for 1,434 yards and 21 touchdowns. Wow. Interestingly enough, Michigan is also very interested in Quick’s teammate, Jason Hatcher (a DE). He plans on visiting in the spring, and hopefully Quick comes with him. Quick was also the first-ever freshman to start a game at his high school. That’s saying something. 

4* Uriah LeMay

LeMay is a 4* wide receiver out of Matthews, North Carolina. He stands 6’2” and 188 pounds. Rivals ranks him 212th in the nation and 28th at his position. LeMay holds over 25 offers including ones from Michigan, Arkansas, Auburn, Florida, Florida State, Notre Dame, Ohio State, Oklahoma, and South Carolina. LeMay wants to visit Michigan for a spring practice, but nothing is set in stone yet. As a junior, he had 43 receptions for 842 yards and 14 touchdowns. He also ran the ball 38 times for 397 yards and 5 touchdowns. Dual-threat, my friends. LeMay says that Alabama, Arkansas, and LSU are recruiting him the hardest so prying him away from SEC-country may be difficult. He plans on making a summer decision, so sooner rather than later.  

4* Eldridge Massington

Massington is a 4* wide receiver out of Mesquite, TX. He stands 6’3” and 205 pounds. Rivals ranks him 245th nationally and 32nd at his position. He holds over 20 offers including ones from Michigan, Baylor, Notre Dame, and Tennessee. His list doesn’t have many big-time schools, but that could play to our advantage if he’s willing to go out-of-state. Massington has some real interest in Michigan. He realizes that his biggest offers to-date are Michigan and Notre Dame and he plans on finding out a lot more about both of them. He wants to visit both unofficially and wants to make his decision before his senior season. This could also play to our advantage because his recruitment is surely to blow up. I say this because as a junior, he was only able to play in 5 games due to having turf toe. Eldridge is very fond of Steve Lorenz of the Tremendous blog and has been updating him before anyone else. He has told Tremendous that Michigan is at the top of his list when it comes to his recruitment, which is fantastic news. He originally wanted to make a Spring decision, but it now appears as though he wants to take his time. 

4* ATH Darrell Daniels

Daniels is a 4* athlete out of Oakley, CA who Michigan is recruiting at wide receiver. He stands 6’4” and 205 pounds and also runs a 4.5-second 40. Rivals ranks him 170th in the nation and the 13th best athlete. He holds double digit offers including ones from Michigan, Arkansas, Auburn, and Nebraska. I haven’t personally watched Daniels on tape, but I hear he’s a complete freak. As a junior, Daniels ran for 266 yards on 44 carries with 4 touchdowns. He had 30 receptions for 526 yards and 7 touchdowns. He also had 63 tackles, 3 pass break-ups, an interception, and added 2 returns for touchdowns on defense. Talk about an athlete. I don’t know if Daniels will make it out to Michigan for an unofficial but he is considering using one of his official visits on Michigan. If we can get him out here, that will make a difference. Otherwise, he’s a long-shot. 

Others with offers: 

3* Rob Wheelwright out of Columbus, OH

3* Richard Benjamin out of Tampa, FL

3* Kevin Gladney out of Akron, OH

Which Prospects Have Michigan in Their Top-3?

The Wolverine coaching staff has already secured 13 verbal commits from top prospects. But the class isn’t finished, and there’s many more players who are very interested in playing at Michigan. There are 11 prospects who have Michigan in their top-3. Three of them are visiting Michigan next weekend. Let’s get to know them...

1. 4* RB Ty Isaac

We all know who Ty Isaac is. He’s Michigan’s #1 prospect for the remaining spot at running back. And he’s a beast. Click here to check out an in-depth post I wrote on Isaac.

Isaac is visiting Michigan next weekend (March 10th). 

2. 3* RB DeVeon Smith

Smith is a 3* running back out of Warren, OH who 247 ranks 31st in the nation at his position. He holds offers from Michigan, Indiana, Ohio State, and Penn State. Smith is 5’11” and 195 pounds. Michigan was actually the first to offer Smith, and he grew up a Michigan fan. He is known for being talented enough to run over defenders as well as around them -- a good fit for our pro-style offense. He has also been heralded for his ball security, rarely fumbling even with such a heavy workload. As a junior, he earned Division 2 All-Ohio second-team honors. He racked up nearly 2,200 rushing yards and 27 touchdowns. To steal an OSU recruit and life-long Michigan fan would be great. Smith has plenty of potential. 

3. 4* WR Laquon Treadwell 

Treadwell is another player we’re all familiar with. That’s because he’s the #1 WR on Michigan’s board. Check out the in-depth post I wrote on him here. 

4. 3* WR James Onwualu

Onwualu is a 3* wide receiver out of St. Paul, MN who 247 ranks 50th in the nation at his position. He holds double digit offers from schools like Michigan, Michigan State, Notre Dame, and Stanford. Onwualu is 6’1” and 205 pounds and is the #1 prospect out of Minnesota. One of the reasons I’m sure Onwualu interests the Michigan coaching staff is his athleticism. He carries the ball from the backfield, catches passes split as a wide receiver, and even lines up on defense on occasion. There’s even been talk of him playing corner or safety at the next level. Multi-positional athletes have been a recurring them this year. Onwualu would be an excellent slot receiver, considering his size and athleticism. I believe Onwualu is vastly underrated and that Michigan would be lucky to get him. 

Onwualu is visiting Michigan next weekend (March 10th). 

5. 3* CB Gareon Conley

Conley is someone I wrote about yesterday when I wrote about Michigan’s options at the cornerback position. 

Conley is a 3* cornerback out of Massilion, OH who stands 6’2” and 170 pounds. I believe he fits the frame of the kind of cornerback we’re going after: tall. He holds offers from Michigan and Northwestern although I’m sure he’s going to be getting many more offers soon. Scout recently came out with a list of the top 2013 prospects from Ohio and Conley ranks 16th, ahead of Jaron Dukes, Jacob Matuska, Kevin Gladney, Shane Jones, and Taco Charlton...just to name a few you may be more familiar with. As a junior, Conley had 4 interceptions, 1 of which was returned for a touchdown. He also led the team with 9 pass break-ups. Tom Greene of Scout calls Conley “one of the top sleeper prospects in Ohio for the class of 2013.” Clearly, Hoke knows what he’s doing.

Conley is visiting Michigan next weekend (March 10th).

6. 4* DL Henry Poggi

Poggi is a 4* tackle out of Baltimore, MD who Rivals ranks as 43rd overall in the nation. He stands 6’3” and 250 pounds. He finished his junior season with 49 tackles, 11 tackles for a loss, 10 sacks, and one forced fumble. Poggi is a beast, with about 20 offers from schools like Michigan, Alabama, Auburn, Ohio State, and Stanford. It’s too early to say much about his options, but Poggi is very interested in Michigan. He has already visited Michigan twice, but is planning another visit soon. Poggi plays a position of need for Michigan and he would be an excellent get.

7. 4* LB Mike McCray

McCray is a 4* outside linebacker out of Trotwood, OH. Rivals ranks him 44th overall in the nation. He has more than 20 offers including ones from Michigan, Nebraska, and Oklahoma. I’m surprised he does not have more big-time offers, although I’m also kind of relieved. Hopefully he is impressed with how early on Michigan realized his talent. This kid is a beast. He stands 6’4” and 230 pounds and runs a 4.61 40. McCray came from the same high school as Roy Roundtree, Michael Shaw, and Brandon Moore. His 2013 teammate Cameron Burrows, however, is already committed to Ohio State. Even though McCray doesn’t have an OSU offer yet, I can promise you he will eventually. Luckily for us, I don’t think that will matter. McCray has a large interest in Michigan right now and plans to make a decision on March 7th or 8th. He is good friends with Michigan commits from Ohio, Taco Charlton and Jaron Dukes. He has said that he could see himself at Michigan. It would have been an easy and educated guess to assume Ohio State would land McCray but like I said, they haven’t offered him yet. Not to mention he has said they aren’t recruiting him right now, unlike Michigan who is going after him hard. McCray will choose between Michigan, Illinois, and Tennessee next week.

McCray is visiting Michigan next week (March 6th).

8. 4* LB E.J. Levenberry

Levenberry is an early 4* outside linebacker out of Woodbridge, VA. Rivals ranks him 15th overall in the nation, which means he will probably end up getting a 5th star. He stands 6’3” and 226 pounds. He holds over 20 offers, including ones from Michigan, Alabama, Florida, Florida State, LSU, Notre Dame, Ohio State, and Oklahoma. An impressive offer sheet, to say the least. E.J. Levenberry is one of my favorite recruits because not only is he one of the top ranked of the bunch, but his top schools are currently Michigan, Florida, and Florida State. Yep, that’s correct. It’s Us vs. The Florida Schools. And ESPN has reported that Michigan is currently on top. Apparently Levenberry loves Hoke. Him and I have that in common. Levenberry has met Shane Morris and Dymonte Thomas, and has heard from both of them how much Michigan impresses them. He is also very impressed with Coach Mattison and how he has coached Ray Lewis. Last but not least, Levenberry’s father went to school with (Michigan sophomore CB) Blake Countess’s father, so they go way back. He said that Blake’s father said great things about Michigan. All in all, I’d say we have a great shot. Granted it will be hard to overcome the Florida schools, but I think Levenberry has made a great connection with Michigan so far. 

Levenberry is visiting Michigan for the Spring Game (April 14th).

9. 4* LB Dorian O’Daniel

O’Daniel is a 4* outside linebacker from Olney, MD (Our Lady of Good Counsel HS). Rivals ranks him 37th overall in the nation. O’Daniel stands 6’1” and 205 pounds. He runs a 4.55 40. He holds more than 20 offers including ones from Michigan, Alabama, Auburn, Florida, Ohio State, Oklahoma, and South Carolina. The reason I mentioned his high school is because it may sound familiar. Our Lady of Good Counsel is the same high school that sophomore CB Blake Countess came from. This is the second linebacker recruit with a connection to Blake! It’s also the high school where (class of 2013) highly touted 5* cornerback Kendall Fuller comes from. I wrote about him recently here. He is another recruit we are after. Could we get two from Our Lady of Good Counsel HS? Hmm... O’Daniel has Michigan at the top of his list right now. Interestingly enough, during our big 8-recruit weekend haul, Florida also had a big weekend. I mention this because Florida is (was?) one of O’Daniel’s favorites, yet during that weekend, they took 4 linebackers. We’ll see if that plays a part in his decision.

O’Daniel is visiting Michigan for the Spring Game (April 14th) along with teammate Kendall Fuller.

10. 4* LB Ben Gedeon

Gedeon is a favorite LB prospect of mine but I hadn’t really considered him an option since he’s from Ohio. Not that Hoke hasn’t been recruiting the hell out of Ohio, but Gedeon has Michigan and Ohio State in his top group. Ugh. That shouldn’t take away from his excellent ball skills though. Rivals ranks Gedeon 224th overall in the nation. He stands 6’3” and 215 pounds and has lots of offers. Offers include Michigan, Michigan State, Ohio State, Penn State, Stanford, and Tennessee. Gedeon is actually an excellent athlete, but is mainly being offered as a linebacker. He wasn’t planning on taking any more visits until after his basketball season, but the coaches got him to visit this weekend. He should be on campus tomorrow. They know as well as we do how fast this class is filling up. To get Gedeon on campus (other than for a game) would be huge, because it’s basically a forgone conclusion that he would be blown away. To steal another one from under Urban’s nose? Would be oh, so nice...

11. 4* LB Peter Kalambayi

Kalambayi is one prospect I don’t think we hear as much about. He’s an all-star though. Kalambayi is a 4* prospect out of Matthews, NC. Rivals ranks him 62nd in the nation. He holds double digit offers including Michigan, Arkansas, Florida, Ohio State, and Oregon. As a junior, Kalambayi had 79 tackles, 6 sacks, and 13 tackles for loss. He is an excellent pass rusher, which is something we could use. Kalambayi actually had an offer from Rich Rod as a sophomore, but Coach Hoke has visited his school since then and let him know the offer still stands and we want him to join the 2013 class. He is thinking of deciding at the Army All-American game, but we’ll see if that changes anytime soon.