Sam Webb: Recruiting
Top football recruits in Michigan for 2010

The state of Michigan is poised to produce one of its best gridiron classes in recent seasons. Colleges from across the country are already setting up shop in the Great Lakes State to try to harvest some of that class of 2010 talent. Meanwhile, Michigan and Michigan State are working feverishly to keep much of it home.

Here is an early look at the 12 best players on Scout.com's "State of Michigan Top 125." According to Scout.com Midwest analyst Allen Trieu, the battle for No. 1 on this list will last well into the season.

1. QB Devin Gardner, Inkster (6-4, 196, 4.6): Gardner has emerged as one of the mostly heavily-recruited signal callers in the country. The genesis of his climb up the charts coincided with his transfer to Inkster last year.

Spring and summer work with his new coaches and teammates laid the groundwork for strong camp performances at schools like Michigan, Michigan State, Notre Dame, and a host of others. Those showings preceded a trip to the prestigious Elite 11 camp in Eugene, Ore.

When fall finally rolled around, Gardner was primed to have a breakout season. He did just that, amassing 1,886 yards, 26 touchdowns and only seven interceptions in the air while also totaling 1,401 yards and 22 touchdowns on the ground. His efforts paced Inkster's run to the state title game.

His offer sheet stands at 13 and includes Michigan, Michigan State, Nebraska, Iowa, Purdue, Wisconsin, Notre Dame and LSU. Noticeably missing, however, is childhood favorite Ohio State. The Buckeyes were eliminated from contention earlier this week after they made Gardner aware of their intent to focus all of their early recruiting attention on Nick Montana, son of former NFL great Joe Montana.

Trieu: "Devin showed as a junior that he could hang in the pocket and win with the pass. Of course, he is still at his best when plays break down and he ad-libs. But he is adding polish to his game with each passing day and that bodes well for his college future."

2. LB/DE William Gholston, Detroit Southeastern (6-7, 245, 4.6): This cousin of former Cass Tech and Ohio State standout Vernon Gholston has displayed similar freakish ability during his three-year high school career. Gholston first came to the attention of gridiron observers around the city while at Mumford, where he registered an impressive 19 sacks as a sophomore. However, his star went to another level when he transferred to Southeastern last season. Gholston finished the year with 101 tackles, including 22 for loss and 15 sacks to go along with two fumble recoveries and four forced fumbles.

Now he is understandably being courted by programs from across the country. At last check he held offers from Michigan, Michigan State, Notre Dame, Wisconsin, Iowa, Purdue, Florida, Miami (Fla.), Illinois and Central Michigan.

Trieu: It would be a challenge to find many kids more physically gifted than Will. It is surprising how well he runs and moves for his size, and he never quits on a play. I still think he will have to transition into being a true defensive end in college, but he has a lot of talent."

3. RB Austin White, Livonia Stevenson (6-0, 180, 4.4): White bested his stellar sophomore performance last year by showing he could drive Stevenson's ship without help from his brothers Myles and Mitchell, both of whom had headed off to Michigan State. The talented youngster rushed 228 times for 1,610 yards and 28 touchdowns, and also hauled in 21 receptions for 310 yards and four more TDs.

A number of programs covet that versatility. Some have even expressed the belief that he could excel as a defensive back. White already holds offers from Michigan, Michigan State, Iowa, Wisconsin and Purdue. His Green and White ties run deep, as both his parents are alums and both his brothers are students, but he insisted from the beginning that that will not be the defining factor in his recruitment. His approach thus far definitely backs that up. He has made numerous visits to Michigan and MSU, and he also has traveled to Notre Dame, Iowa and Wisconsin. Apparently that is just the beginning of a very busy itinerary. He is also interested in dropping in on schools that are showing interest from outside the region, like Florida State.

Trieu: "I love the versatility Austin brings. He is excellent in the open field, he can run from an I-formation, from a shotgun, he can split out, he can play in the slot, and he blocks. I don't know that he'll be a workhorse type back in college, but he can help a team in a variety of ways."

4. LB Max Bullough, Traverse City St. Francis (6-3, 220, 4.6, committed to Michigan State): The name says it all. The Bullough family legacy at MSU made this an extremely tough recruitment for every other program. His father Shane, uncle Chuck, and grandfather Hank all played for the Spartans. Hank also coached in East Lansing.

UCLA, Iowa, and Notre Dame tried to make things interesting, but Bullough announced his allegiance to the Spartans in early October. He then turned his athletic attention back to the football field, where he helped lead his team to the Division 7 state title.

Trieu: "Max is simply a kid you can count on. He won't necessarily make eye-popping highlight-reel plays, but I'll take double-digit tackles every game over that any day. He has a feel for the game and a nose for the ball. You'll be hard-pressed to find many missed tackles from this kid."

5. CB Dior Mathis, Detroit Cass Tech (5-8, 170, 4.3): Prior to last season, Mathis was considered by many to be a track guy playing football. An offseason of strength work, plus seeking out one-on-one challenges at every summer camp he could get to, was the start of proving otherwise. Mathis added 22 pounds of muscle, but maintained his 10.47 100-meter speed.

The more physically prepared Mathis was an impact player for Cass Tech in 2008. He grabbed eight interceptions and flashed big-play ability on offense en route to helping the Technicians get back to the playoffs. On the recruiting front he was seemingly signed, sealed and delivered for Miami last September, but eventually decided against offering an early verbal pledge. Mathis wants to go through the entire recruiting process and has no shortage of suitors to explore. He holds offers from Michigan, Miami, Iowa, Oregon and Tennessee, but maintains a top four of Florida, Miami, Michigan and Ohio State.

Trieu: "Dior's cover skills are fantastic. His feet, hips and makeup speed are uncanny. He likes to play in your face, even despite his size. I've noticed him getting bigger and stronger, which should help the part of his game that needs the most improvement -- run support. Ultimately, true cover corners are hard to find and Dior has those skills."

6. DE/TE C.J. Olaniyan, Warren Mott (6-5, 225, 4.7): This jumbo athlete had a breakout season for Warren Mott. He led his team to the playoffs, where it was eliminated by Cass Tech. Along the way, he established himself as a high major prospect. Olaniyan finished the year with 77 tackles from his defensive end spot, including 14 for loss and nine sacks. On offense he hauled in 33 passes for 536 yards and three touchdowns.

He prefers defense on the next level and college coaches seem to agree that that is his optimal position. Olaniyan currently holds offers from Michigan State, Kentucky and Indiana. He is also receiving heavy interest from Michigan, Maryland, Penn State and Iowa.

Trieu: "It is clear that Olaniyan is starting to blow up now, but he has been one of the state's best athletes for the last two seasons. He could play tight end in college, but his pass-rush ability and long frame seem to be best suited for defense. He is still raw, but that is actually scary for opponents."

7. RB Nick Hill, Chelsea (5-7, 180, 4.5): Hill looks like Mike Hart, is built like Hart and runs like Hart. On the stat sheet, Hill fills things up like Hart. Need proof? Check out his 2008 stats: 2,260 yards and 27 TDs rushing, 19 receptions for 242 yards, and seven kickoff returns for 252 yards and two TDs.

If credentials were all that were needed to get scholarship offers, Hart would've had a ton by the time his senior year began. But like Hart, Hill will have to clear the hurdle in the minds of many college coaches about his size. No one can predict whether the Chelsea star will come close to Hart's enormous dynamism, but he has already proven that he is a book that definitely can't be judged by its cover. Stanford, Eastern Michigan and Western Michigan have seen enough to convince them to offer scholarships. Notre Dame, Michigan, Michigan State, Iowa and Wisconsin are among those currently showing a great deal of interest.

Trieu: "Hill's measureables may not be prototype, but the rest of his game is. He has great vision and runs with determination. His speed is an underrated part of his repertoire, and he showed as a junior that he had home-run ability. His size may scare some schools off, but he will make them wish it hadn't in a few years."

8. QB Joe Boisture, Saline (6-6, 200, N/A): Boisture emerged from relative obscurity last year after being knocked out for his entire sophomore campaign. Former Hemlock standout and future Wisconsin Badger Zac Mathias muted the buzz about the 6-6 gunslinger with a hit to his non-throwing elbow during a scrimmage.

The hype began building again when camp season rolled during the spring and summer. During impressive showings at the Purdue quarterback camp and the Elite 11 camp, Boisture was able to demonstrate why so many Flint-area observers were touting him so heavily before he ever took one varsity snap. He carried that strong offseason showing into his junior campaign, where he passed for 1,700 yards and 13 touchdowns while leading Goodrich to an undefeated regular season. He recently transferred to Saline and is the favorite to win that job next year. It's very likely that all of his athletic attention will be focused on that task since his college decision stands a good chance of already being out of the way.

"I plan to make an early decision," Boisture told Scout.com earlier this week. He's visited Pittsburgh and Boston College, and has a trip to Cincinnati scheduled. "So, those are the three schools I'm considering. Hopefully, I can then sit down with my parents and make a decision. I just want to get it out of the way. I mean, this whole recruiting process is long and takes a lot of you."

Trieu: "It will be interesting to see what Boisture does this year. He had a great junior season and showed his talent, but at a smaller level. Watching him on tape though, it is clear he has a great arm and he has the height you want in a quarterback, so he has the requisite tools for the job."

9. QB Robert Bolden, Orchard Lake St. Mary's (6-4, 197, 4.5): Last season Bolden completed just 72-of-123 passes for 949 yards, seven touchdowns and four interceptions while adding another 260 yards and three TDs on the ground. Statistically, it's quite obvious that those numbers don't compare favorably with those of Gardner and Boisture.

The reason for the difference? Bolden wasn't asked to pass nearly as much as the others. However, when he was, he came through with big passing games -- 238 yards vs. Warren DeLaSalle, 195 against Davison and 223 against Birmingham Brother Rice. The combination of the upside that is presented by his outstanding athleticism, his impressive showing at camps and combines last summer, and his ability to deliver through the air when called upon has created a compelling case for many schools to extend offers. Michigan State, Central Michigan, Northwestern, Virginia, Duke, Wisconsin, Colorado and most recently Michigan already have. Don't look for a decision anytime soon, though. Bolden plans to carry his recruitment into the fall.

Trieu: "Bolden is as polished a high school quarterback as there is in the Midwest this (class). He has good mechanics and showed improved arm strength as a junior. While he is comfortable in the pocket, he also has good speed and can make throws on the run."

10. LB Austin Gray, Warren Fitzgerald (6-2, 210, 4.6): Back-to-back productive seasons have made Austin Gray a name to remember on the in-state scene. He followed up his 105-tackle, three-sack sophomore campaign with an equally-impressive 97-tackle, nine-sack showing as a junior. His junior film has proven to be a major catalyst in his recruitment. Multiple programs, including Michigan and Michigan State, began showing increased interest. Others -- Central Michigan, Toledo, Purdue, Indiana and Maryland -- stepped up with offers.

Of those that have extended scholarships, Indiana and Purdue might hold the early edge. Gray was born in Columbia City, Ind., and still has a number of relatives there. The Hoosier fans are plentiful in his family and he also has two cousins that currently attend Purdue.

Trieu: "Gray is a tough kid who can take on blocks, shed them, and find the football. He is good at taking plays head-on and getting up the field. He has good speed and shows ability to play sideline-to-sideline, as well as rush the quarterback. He improved a lot as a junior. That earned him a few offers."

11. WR Jeremy Jackson, Ann Arbor Huron (6-4, 186, 4.6, committed to Michigan): The son of Michigan running backs coach Fred Jackson was a marked man in 2008, but acquitted himself well, hauling in 42 receptions for 620 yards and seven touchdowns. His big body and leaping ability have endeared him to coaches searching for a physical pass catcher that is a frequent mismatch in the red zone.

Michigan was among those that offered early, and to some it may have seemed like a foregone conclusion that he would don the Maize and Blue. That, though, was never a certainty in Jackson's mind. Trips to Texas and Florida over the summer -- along with offers from Florida, Iowa, Stanford, and Wisconsin, among others -- proved that he was serious about exploring options. One of the factors that had prevented Jackson from making his decision even sooner was his uncertainty about whether U-M's new offense would put the ball in the air. After learning more about the system and seeing it in action on the field, he is now a believer.

"I know they're going to throw, especially since they've got these good quarterbacks coming," said Jackson. "I'm just really excited about the offense because I know once you get the quarterback for it they're going to be throwing it. So I just wanted to jump on it."

Trieu: "Jeremy has very good size and great hands. As a junior, he showed more ability to out-position defenders and use his body to make tough catches in traffic. His speed is the only question. His game speed looks to be better than his timed speed, so I think he'll find his niche in college."

12. CB/RB Mylan Hicks, Detroit Renaissance (5-11, 175, 4.42): Hicks is another player that went from being a relative unknown to a high major target last season. In his first year as a full-time two-way starter, he turned the heads of numerous programs. That was especially true defensively, where he came up with 15 pass breakups and an interception from his cornerback spot.

Size might not be as much of an issue as it had been since he has reportedly added a couple of inches and currently stands 5-11. Only Eastern Michigan, Central Michigan and Arizona have offered, but Notre Dame, Vanderbilt, Michigan and Michigan State (where former teammates Chris Norman and Dana Dixon will be freshmen next year) are showing growing interest.

Trieu: "Hicks has great feet and burst, and that is key for a cornerback. His coverage ability is up there with the best. He will likely climb up the rankings."

Sam Webb is managing editor of GoBlueWolverine magazine and GoBlueWolverine.com, and co-host of the "Michigan Insider" morning show weekdays on Sports Talk 1050 WTKA. His column appears every Thursday.

The 2010 class for Notre Dame looks to feature 24+ athletes based on my scholarship breakdown.

Quarterback (1-2)
After passing on taking a QB in the class of 2009, the Irish will look to take two (2) QBs out of the class of 2010. Based on the early offers, in my opinion it appears Weis and staff are looking to bring in one (1) pro-style QB and one (1) dual threat QB. At this point Jake Heaps (WA) and Devin Gardner (MI) appear to be the main targets.

Targets: Jake Heaps (WA), Devin Gardner (MI)

Commits: None

RB/FB (2-3)
A program can never have enough quality runningbacks. Even after hauling in 4 and 5 star RBs the past couple years the Irish have still not found that "go-to" every down back they desire. In all due fairness to the backs, the offensive line shares most of the blame. With only one (1) fullback on the current roster I look for Notre Dame take two (2) rb and one (1) fb in the class of 2010.

Targets: Corey Brown (PA), Dietrich Riley (CA), Anthony Barr (CA)

Commits: None

Wide Receiver (3)
A position of strenght for the Irish, the Irish look to bring in three (3) more quality athletes. With Robby Parris, George West and Barry Gallup likely going into their last season in 2009, Notre Dame needs to maintain the current level of depth and even increase the quality.

Targets: Mike Davis (TX), Tai-ler Jones (GA), Kyle Prater (IL), Darius White (TX)

Commits: Daniel Smith (video)

Tight End (0-1)
Another position of strength. Whether or not players such as Jake Golic and Tyler Eiffert actually end up at Tight Ends may determine where the staff wants to go with this position. I would recruit hard for one elite Tight End, if unable to secure a legit 4-5 star Tight End I believe it would be wise to save this scholarship for another position.

Targets: C.J. Fiedorowicz (IL)

Commits: None

Offensive Line (4)
With three (3) players with starting experience (Young, Duncan and Olson) moving on after the 2009 season, I believe it would be wise to stock up on as many quality OL as possible. I'm saying AT LEAST four (4) in the class of 2010. OT Seantrel Henderson out of MN looks like the francise LT that the Irish are looking for.

Targets: Seantrel Henderson (MN), Brent Benedict (FL), Chaz Green (FL), James Hurst (IN), Brandon Linder (FL), Mark Shuman (VA), James Stone (TN).

Commits: Christian Lombard

Defensive Tackle (2)
With no DTs moving on after the 2009 season, the Irish look to stockpile more unproven talenent at the DT position. I believe the Irish need to hit a homerun and make sure at least one of the DTs in the class are in that 5-star "elite" category.

Target: Denzel McCoy (GA)

Commits: None

Defensive End/DT (2)
With Morrice Richardson, Kallen Wade and Paddy Mullen all potentially being gone after 2009, Notre Dame needs to bring in at least 2 DE/DT type players to back up and compete with Ethan Johnson.

Targets: Jackson Jeffcoat (TX), Corey Lemonier (FL).

Commits: None

DE/Outside LB (2)
Current commit Chris Martin looks like the ideal candidate to become a dominant player at this position. With all due respect to Manti Te'o, if/when Martin signs or enrolls at Notre Dame, this will be the biggest defensive impact player ND has recruited in years. Aside from Martin I would like to bring in one (1) other player at this position.

Targets: Chance Carter (IL), Reggie Wilson (TX), Owamagbe Odighizuwa (OR),

Commits: Chris Martin (video)

Outside Linebacker/S (2)
This is for the linebacker spot that seems to be played by safety/olb in this defense, as played by Harrison Smith in 2008 and potentially Zeke Motta in 2009. This spot needs to be athletic enough to cover and strong enough to stop the run. I would attempt to bring in two (2) more athletic linebackes to compete at this position.

Targets: V.J. Fehoko (HI), Khairi Fortt (CT), Jordan Hicks (OH), Tony Jefferson (CA), Justin McCay (TX)

Commits: None

Inside Linebacker (2)
It will be interesting to see if the Irish can land a big time player to compete 2-3 years down the road for a spot to play next to Te'o. With a lot of talented underclassmen and only junior Brian Smith being a proven player, it would be wise to continue to bring in more competition at the ILB position.

Targets: Caleb Lavey (TX), Jeff Luc (FL)

Commits: None

Corner (2)
With Rasheon McNeil moving on after 2009 and the uncertaintity right now with talented sophomore Gary Gray, I would bring in at least two (2) corners in the class of 2010.

Targets: Lamarcus Joyner (FL), Cody Riggs (FL), Lo Wood (FL), Spencer Boyd (FL)

Commits: None

Safety (1-2)
With Sergio Brown and Kyle McCarthy playing out their eligibility after 2009, it really hurt losing out on both Moore and Starling to USC. Without at least (2) freshmen S coming in for the 2010 season, the Irish will be very light at the S position with Harrison Smith and Dan McCarty being the only real options.

Targets: Cory Cooper (IL), Sean Parker (CA)

Commits: None

Special Teams (0)
With a K, P and Long Snapper in the 2009 class I would hold off a year or two recruiting special teams.

Targets: None

Commits: None

* This list is fluid and will be updated as more information is gathered.....and updated here.

National Singing Day Schedule

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On ESPNU Feb 4th Times are all EST
10:05 AM Byron Moore
10:30 AM Sam Montgomery
10:45 AM Darren Myles, JR
11:05 AM Jelani Jenkins
11:20 AM Frankie Telfort
12:05 PM Manti Te'o
2:05 PM Xavier Su a Filo
2:53 PM Kendall Kelly
3:05 PM Dre Kirpatrick
3:45 PM Marlon Brown

Others Announcing (not specified on where) Times are EST I think
10:00 AM Tana Patrick
11:00 AM Vontaze Burfict
11:30 AM Jawanza Starling
12:00 PM Marsalis Teague
1:00 PM Jarvis Jones
2:30 PM Justin Brown
3:45 PM Marlon Brown
6:30 PM Randall Carroll -Fox Sports
7:00 PM Greg Reid

At some time on Feb 4th
Janzen Jackson
Barkevious Mingo
James Boyd
Alshon Jeffrey

BEST OF THE MIDWEST
Mick McCabe's Fab 50 Michigan recruits

By MICK MCCABE • FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER • January 29, 2009

Mick McCabe's Fab 50 Michigan recruits:
NAME POS HT WT HIGH SCHOOL COLLEGE
1. William Campbell DT 6-5 317 Detroit Cass Tech Michigan
2. Blake Treadwell OL 6-2 270 East Lansing Michigan State
3. Chris Norman LB 6-2 207 Detroit Renaissance Michigan State
4. Andrew Maxwell QB 6-3 192 Midland Michigan State
5. Dion Sims TE 6-5 230 O.L. St. Mary's Michigan State
6. Larry Caper RB 5-11 215 Battle Creek Central Michigan State
7. Edwin Baker RB 5-10 204 Oak Park Michigan State
8. Jeremy Gainer LB 6-1 215 Livonia Clarenceville Michigan State
9. James Jackson WR 6-0 175 Grand Ledge Ohio State
10. Thomas Gordon DB 5-10 199 Detroit Cass Tech Michigan
11. Micajah Reynolds OT 6-5 318 Lansing Sexton Michigan State
12. Cameron Gordon WR 6-2 211 Inkster Michigan
13. Zac Matthias OL 6-5 297 Hemlock Wisconsin
14. Teric Jones RB 5-10 186 Detroit Cass Tech Michigan
15. Reid Fragel TE 6-8 251 Grosse Pointe South Ohio State
16. Bennie Fowler WR 6-2 185 Detroit Country Day Michigan State
17. Donald Spencer WR 6-4 197 Ypsilanti Michigan State
18. Cody Wilson WR 5-11 165 Rochester Adams Central Michigan
19. Dylan Farrington DE 6-5 217 Adrian Bowling Green
20. Jacob Pedersen TE 6-5 213 Menominee Wisconsin
21. Jeff Fantuzzi OT 6-4 276 Macomb Dakota Central Michigan
22. Charlie Chapman OL 6-6 275 Carleton Airport Indiana
23. Chris Blair TE 6-4 217 East Grand Rapids Western Michigan
24. Zurlon Tipton RB 6-1 195 Parkway Christian Central Michigan
25. Austin Collier QB 6-1 188 Standish-Sterling Bowling Green
26. David Box DT 6-2 262 Milan Western Michigan
27. Dana Dixon DB 6-3 171 Detroit Renaissance Michigan State
28. Jamonne Chester WR 6-1 194 Redford Covenant Indiana
29. Josh Hadel OT 6-6 280 Gladstone Western Michigan
30. Will Schwarz LB 6-4 212 Troy Central Michigan
31. Aaron McCord DT 6-3 270 Detroit Crockett Central Michigan
32. Drew Moulton WR 5-11 164 Midland Northwestern
33. Alex Andrus LB 6-4 237 Coopersville Ball State
34. A.J. Westendorp QB 6-2 180 Holland Christian N. Dakota State
35. Jason Johnson DB 6-1 185 Durand Central Michigan
36. Ali Alaboody RB 5-8 168 Dearborn Fordson Bowling Green
37. Shamari Benton DB 6-0 194 Birm. Brother Rice Central Michigan
38. Adam Fenton LB 6-2 204 Birm. Seaholm Central Michigan
39. Kenny Watkins DB 6-0 185 Birm. Brother Rice Minnesota
40. Tyler Van Tubbergen QB 6-4 195 Holland W. Ottawa Western Michigan
41. Robert Bell LB 5-11 225 East Grand Rapids Toledo
42. Jon Czerwienski OL 6-5 265 Fraser Central Michigan
43. Orlando McCord DE 6-4 231 Detroit King Eastern Michigan
44. Corey Sueing DE 6-3 235 GR Ottawa Hills Western Michigan
45. Justice Akuezue DE 6-3 204 Ann Arbor Huron Central Michigan
46. Evan Ray DB 6-0 190 Detroit Finney Central Michigan
47. Kyle Lark LB 6-0 225 Alma Western Michigan
48. Eric Fisher OL 6-7 260 R.H. Stoney Creek Central Michigan
49. Kyle Bryant OT 6-6 270 Detroit Southeastern Bowling Green
50. Rodney Woodland WR 5-7 170 OL St. Mary's Central Michigan

Rivals.com Postseason Top 35 for the Class of 2009 in Michigan

Prospect Ranking

Rivals.com Michigan Postseason Top 35 2009 | Rivals.com Football Recruiting | last sorted on 1/22/2009

2009 Rank			Pos	Ht/Wt	Schools
1	William Campbell Detroit (MI) Cass Tech		DT	6-5/317	Michigan
	Campbell carries a 3.2 GPA and graduated at mid-term.
2	Edwin Baker Oak Park (MI) Oak Park		RB	5-10/204	Michigan State
	Won the County 100 meters as a sophomore with a time of 10.5.
3	Chris Norman Detroit (MI) Renaissance		LB	6-2/207	Michigan State
	Has a 450 pound squat.
4	Andrew Maxwell Midland (MI) Midland		QB	6-3/192	Michigan State
	A 2007 Michigan all-state Honorable Mention and all-area dream team selection.
5	James Jackson Grand Ledge (MI) Grand Ledge		WR	6-0/175	Ohio State
	Jackson finished seventh nationally in the 100-meter dash at the 2006 AAU Junior Olympics.
6	Cameron Gordon Inkster (MI) Inkster		WR	6-2/211	Michigan
	Played his junior season at Melvindale High School.
7	Larry Caper Battle Creek (MI) Battle Creek Central		RB	5-10/215	Michigan State
	Rushed for 1,473 yards on 160 carries in 2007.
8	Dion Sims Orchard Lake (MI) St. Mary's		TE	6-5/230	Michigan State
	One of the top two-sport stars - football and basketball - in the nation.
9	Blake Treadwell East Lansing (MI) East Lansing		OL	6-2/270	Michigan State
	He was named all-league, Lansing State Journal dream team and all-state special mention in 2007.
10	Jeremy Gainer Detroit (MI) Clarenceville		LB	6-1/215	Michigan State
	As a junior Gainer recorded 97 tackles, seven interceptions, seven forced fumbles and four fumble recoveries.
11	Donald Spencer Ypsilanti (MI) Ypsilanti		WR	6-4/197	Michigan State
	Spencer caught 18 passes and averaged 19.1 yards per catch as a junior and he scored 8 touchdowns for Ypsilanti.
12	Teric Jones Detroit (MI) Cass Tech		RB	5-8/186	Michigan
	Rushed for 808 yards as a junior.
13	Reid Fragel Grosse Pointe (MI) South		TE	6-8/251	Ohio State
	Caught 24 passes for 328 yards and scored three touchdowns in 2007.
14	Zac Matthias Hemlock (MI) Hemlock		OL	6-4/297	Wisconsin
	Earned second team all-conference honors as a sophomore in 2006 and earned all-conference honors again in 2007.
15	Bennie Fowler Detroit (MI) Country Day		WR	6-2/185	Michigan State
	Was sidelined for several games in 2007 with a broken collar bone but was able to return during the playoffs and scored the game-winning score against Zeeland West in the state semifinals.
16	Kenneth Watkins Birmingham (MI) Brother Rice		DB	6-0/185	Minnesota
	Father was a four-year letterman as a defensive back at Northwestern.
17	Charles Chapman S.Rockwood (MI) Airport		OL	6-6/274	Indiana
	Earned all-area honors as a junior.
18	Hersey Jackson Allendale (MI) Allendale		RB	5-11/206	list
	Won the state 100 meters title as a junior. Has timed a 10.80 100 meters and a 22.23 200 meters.
19	Robert Bell Grand Rapids (MI) East Grand Rapids		LB	5-11/225	list
	Impressed at the Columbus NIKE Camp.
20	Micajah Reynolds Lansing (MI) Sexton		OL	6-5/310	Michigan State
	Helped team advance all the way to the regional finals in 2007.
21	Shamari Benton Birmingham (MI) Brother Rice		DB	6-0/194	Central Michigan
	Had 85 tackles in 2007.
22	Adam Fenton Birmingham (MI) Seaholm		LB	6-2/204	Central Michigan
	Earned all-area honors as a junior and was a team captain.
23	Jeff Fantuzzi Macomb (MI) Dakota		OL	6-4/276	Central Michigan
	Played on state championship team in 2006 and 2007.
24	Thomas Gordon Detroit (MI) Cass Tech		ATH	5-10/199	Michigan
	Played quarterback as a junior.
25	Dana Dixon Detroit (MI) Renaissance		DB	6-2/171	Michigan State
	In 2007, led the team in turnovers, picking off two passes, forcing two fumbles and recovering three more.
26	Dylan Farrington Adrian (MI) Adrian		DE	6-4/217	list
	Has thrown 150-feet in the discus and has high jumped 6-0 as a junior in track.
27	Justin Semmes Orchard Lake (MI) St. Mary's		RB	6-2/222	Miami-OH
	Rushed for 699 yards as a junior.
28	Jamonne Chester Redford (MI) Covenant		WR	6-1/194	Indiana
	Played receiver, quarterback, and free safety for Redford Covenant in 2007.
29	Will Schwarz Troy (MI) Troy		LB	6-4/212	Central Michigan
	Earned all-league honors in 2007.
30	Delano Collins Detroit (MI) Renaissance		WR	6-0/184	list
	A two-way threat that could project on both offense and defense.
31	Aaron McCord Detroit (MI) Crockett		DT	6-3/270	Central Michigan
	Impressed at the Columbus NIKE Camp.
32	Mitch Kessel Birmingham (MI) Seaholm		OL	6-5/245	Cincinnati
	A 2007 all-league, all-Detroit North and all-Oakland County selection.
33	Rodney Woodland Detroit (MI) St. Mary's		WR	5-7/170	Central Michigan
	Plays on one of the top teams in the state.
34	Drew Moulton Midland (MI) Midland		WR	5-11/164	Northwestern
	Bounced back from an injury and ended up in the Big Ten.
35	Ali Alaboody Dearborn (MI) Fordson		RB	5-8/168	Bowling Green
	Was running back MVP at the Columbus NIKE Camp.

Conferences to review AFCA proposal on Thursday

By Joe Schad
ESPN.com
January 11, 2009, 5:35 PM ET

The American Football Coaches Association has forwarded a proposal for an early signing day for college football recruits and it wil be reviewed by conference commissioners this Thursday.

"We're looking for an early signing day in the third week of December," Rob Ianello, Notre Dame assistant and head of the AFCA FBS Assistant Coaches Committee, said at the coaches convention in Nashville. "There are more than 1,000 verbal committments right now, and about 15 per school. Why not sign them? Is it a reservation or a committment? What we're seeing is oversigning and late switches. An earlier signing day would also be cost effective."

Ianello said the large majority of coaches are in favor of a signing day before the traditional one in February.

Barnes is going to look elsewhere
by Josh Helmholdt Fort Wayne (Ind.) Homestead linebacker Jordan Barnes made a commitment to Michigan this past summer, but last month he announced plans to take official visits to other schools. On Saturday, the 6-1, 225-pound Barnes came to a decision about the status of his Michigan ...

by Chris Balas

Michigan received a commitment today from Inkster (Mich.) four-star Cameron Gordon, a two-way standout at linebacker/safety and wide receiver. Gordon is U-M's 21st commitment ... [details]

Formerly an Indiana commit ... Safety Kenneth Watkins has had a change of heart ...

Sounds like Watkins is considering Indiana and Minnesota right now (and would probably jump on a Spartan offer if it comes). The issue with MSU is a numbers game ... as the Spartans only have a few more spots open.

Watkins is rated the #43 Safety in the nation by rivals.com

PROSPECT COMMITMENTS School TOTAL Commits Commits Commits Avg Stars Points 1 USC 16 4 12 0 4.25 2,393 2 Ohio State 24 1 15 8 3.71 2,329 3 LSU 20 2 12 5 3.75 2,229 4 Texas 19 1 12 6 3.74 2,048 5 Alabama 18 2 9 7 3.72 1,938 6 North Carolina 24 1 11 8 3.38 1,912 7 Florida State 18 1 10 7 3.67 1,820 8 Michigan 20 0 11 8 3.50 1,726 9 Georgia 16 0 11 5 3.69 1,613 10 Notre Dame 17 1 9 5 3.53 1,571 11 Miami 16 1 9 5 3.63 1,544 12 South Carolina 22 0 9 9 3.23 1,469 13 Auburn 23 0 7 15 3.26 1,439 14 Oklahoma 19 0 6 13 3.32 1,385 15 Arkansas 21 1 3 16 3.19 1,346 16 Michigan State 16 0 8 7 3.44 1,323 17 Florida 13 0 9 4 3.69 1,263 18 Texas A&M 26 0 4 21 3.12 1,237 19 Stanford 15 0 7 8 3.47 1,214 20 Tennessee 15 0 6 9 3.40 1,148 21 Mississippi State 17 0 5 12 3.29 1,110 22 Virginia Tech 19 1 2 12 3.00 1,044 23 Illinois 16 0 7 5 3.19 1,041 24 Penn State 20 0 4 11 2.95 920 25 Texas Tech 19 0 3 14 3.05 901

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Michigan's top commit has taken his name off the commitment list.

Bryce McNeal

WR

6-2

170

4.45

6.0

Minneapolis, MN

Minnesota might be the team to beat as of now.

by Matt Dorsey

SpartanMag.com just got a message from class of 2010 linebacker Max Bullough of Traverse City Saint Francis High School, and he confirmed to us that he has committed to play at Michigan State University. [details]

Rated a 3-star prospect by rivals ... looks like Schwarz' biggest offer was Stanford

by Steve Bushong

With few scholarships remaining, CMU has landed yet another high profile recruit. Needing another athlete on the defensive side of the ball, CMU got exactly that with LB/DE Will Schwarz. ChippewaCountry.com tells you why he committed to CMU and where this versatile athlete will be playing. [details]

http://michiganstate.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=827686

July 16, 2008

Matt Dorsey
SpartanMag.com Recruiting Analyst

This Saturday several members of the Michigan State recruiting class of 2008 will play their first game in Spartan Stadium. They won't be wearing the Green and White, but they will be indirectly representing Michigan State University. SpartanMag.com has some details on the East vs. West High School All-Star Game.

Deyo earned his Michigan State offer after a strong performance at the Spartan summer camp.

Four members of the Michigan State recruiting class of 2008 will be participating in the 28th East vs. West Michigan High School All-Star Game. The players include John Deyo of Gull Lake High School, Caulton Ray of Birmingham Brother Rice School, Ethan Ruhland of Lake Orion High School and Glenn Winston of Detroit Denby High School.

Winston, Ray and Ruhland will be playing for the East Squad, while Deyo is the lone Spartan playing for the West Team.

Ray and Winston are expected to provide the East with a formidable rushing attack. Both players had outstanding careers in high school at the running back position, and will be given a shot to play that spot at Michigan State when fall practice begins in August.

Offensive guard Ruhland will be one of the players opening holes for the tandem of Ray and Winston. Ruhland is fully recovered from injuries he suffered during his senior year and is expected to be a key component of the Spartan offensive line in the near future.

Deyo will be anchoring a West offensive line that may use the passing game to counter the East's power run game. Indiana Hoosier Quarterback Adam Follett will lead the West Team. Depending on whether he lines up at guard or tackle, it is possible that Deyo could spend some of his time blocking Michigan 2008 signee Mike Martin of Detroit Catholic Central.

Deyo will be joined on the West offensive line by future Wolverine Rocko Khoury of Traverse City West High School. A guard/tackle combination of Deyo and Khoury could be formidable.

	Glenn Winston will look to show his running skills on Saturday

In addition to the players listed above, several other high-level players will also be participating in Saturday's game. Future Iowa Hawkeye defensive end Jason Semmes of Orchard Lake Saint Mary's will be playing for the East as will prolific pass catcher Jimmy Saros of Grosse Pointe, who is headed to Brown University.

Kickoff for the game is at 2PM. Player introductions will begin at 1:30. The price of admission is $10. The East currently holds a 14-13 advantage in the series.

SpartanMag.com will have coverage of the game and which players stood out later this weekend.

Link

Pete Sampson
IrishIllustrated.com Editor

I have not seen any articles but rivals now list's Fort Wayne, IN TE Tyler Eifert as a Notre Dame Commitment.

I'm very surprised to see ND take another TE in this class, especially with this being a "smaller" class that may top out around 20 commitments. ... and Tight End not being one of the bigger needs.

In fact I would not have been upset had ND completely passed on the TE position this year after the players they have brought in the past 2 years... but taking 2 TEs?

I thought I read somewhere in the past that ND may be recruiting Eifert as an "athlete" ... I'm not sure what other positions he projects to.

It does not appear he has the speed to be a WR ... possibly put on some weight and end up at DE or LB?

Tyler Eifert

Tight end
Fort Wayne (IN) Bishop Dwenger

Ht: 6-foot-6
Wt: 220 lbs
Forty: 4.62 secs
Class: 2009 (High School)

Link

Jeremy Crabtree
Recruiting Editor

Austin Collier, Dual-Threat QB from Standish Sterling High School is going to Bowling Green...

Collier rushed for 1,274 yards and passing for 1,149 yards in 2007 ... and is currently NR by rivals.com

Collier is the 2nd commitment for QBs in the class of 2009, Midland's Andrew Maxwell is currently committed to Michigan State.


Click Here for a full list of MHSAA Player Commitments