Upper Peninsula/Northern Michigan All-Star football game -- let's do it!

It's about two months until the first ever Border Classic high school football game pitting some of the top players from Michigan against a squad from Ohio. The contest will be played June 14 at the University of Findlay in Ohio. Even though the rosters have already been set, I'll blog about the team I would have liked to have seen suit up for Michigan once the game draws nearer. Of course these types of all-star games never can have all the best players participate. There are always prior commitment problems and assorted other reasons why certain players cannot compete, but in a perfect world, I'll blog about the Michigan squad I would have loved to have seen take the field against Ohio.


All that being said, another game I would like to see happen someday and possibly become a showcase-type, highly anticipated and talked about event, would be a contest featuring the best players from the Upper Peninsula taking on a squad of the top gridders from northern Michigan. I haven't come up with a catchy name for the game yet, but officially it would be called "The Upper Peninsula-Northern Michigan High School Football All-Star Game." It would played right after the regular prep football season in early December at the Superior Dome in Marquette. Can you imagine the regional pride the game would bring about? I visualize the Superior Dome (aka Yooper Dome) absolutely packed with over 10,000 crazed fans screaming and cheering for their area football heroes. I don't think there is a better facility in the state of Michigan to host a big-time high school football game like the Superior Dome. It's large enough, yet cozy enough to provide and generate an electric, heart-pounding, ear-splitting, super-sized atmosphere. I think, if the games were competitive (which I think they would be), and all the stars would suit up and fans would pack the stadium, the U.P.-Northern Michigan "gridiron tussle" (I think I just might have come up with my catchy nickname for the game!) would become one of the best and most rabidly followed and talked about high school football all-star games in the country.


For fun, if the inaugural game was played this past season, here would be the line-ups for each squad. It's truly amazing the caliber of talent that would be on each team. Each squad would have multiple All-State and Division I college football talent sprinkled throughout its line-up.


I picture the U.P. team's colors being brown (or black) and yellow, with yellow helmets with a brown or black "U.P." logo on the side of the helmet. The northern Michigan squad's colors would be forest green and white, with forest green helmets with a white "N.M." type logo on the side of the helmets. I want it simple, Penn State or Alabama simple, when it comes to the helmets and uniforms.


Each team would have an honorary captain. This year's U.P. honorary captain would be somebody like Bessemer's Bob Jurasin, former Northern Michigan University standout, CFL All-Star, Grey Cup champion and Canadian Football Hall-of-Famer or Newberry's Rob Rubick, former Grand Valley State and Detroit Lion standout, while the northern Michigan honorary captain would be a former star like Traverse City's Mark Bramer, an All-Big Ten tight end at Michigan State and five-year NFL player with the Buffalo Bills or Cadillac's Jim Bowman, a former CMU star and NFL player with the New England Patriots.


The entire event would be a celebration of all things U.P./northern Michigan football. Maybe there would be a "George Gipp" (win one for the Gipper fame, a Calumet native) MVP trophy, a "Chuck Fairbanks" (Charlevoix native and former New England Patriots head coach and Oklahoma head coach at the collegiate level who is credited with helping install and make popular the 3-4 defense) Defensive Player of the Game trophy and a "Steve Mariucci" (Iron Mountain native and former NMU star who quarterbacked the Wildcats to the D-II national championship and later was a head coach in the NFL for the San Francisco 49er's and Detroit Lions, along with California at the collegiate level, noted for his offensive mindset and success on that side of the football) Offensive Player of the Game trophy and on and on...


Line-up for this year's game (if there would have been one!)-


--Players would be able to go both ways.


Upper Peninsula-
Head Coach-Jeff Olson-Ishpeming (two consecutive D-7 state titles)


Offense- (starters)
WR-Devin Harris-5-11, 175-Menominee
TE-Jeremy Bell-6-4, 220-Negaunee (All-U.P. at OT, but blocking TE on this team)
OT-Bryson Heimerl-6-3, 300-Iron River West Iron County
OG-Tyler Thomas-6-1, 280-Negaunee
C-Hayden Hardwick-6-1, 240-Rapid River
OG-Keith Denomie-6-2, 260-L'Anse
OT-Andy Ridolphi-6-2, 265-Iron River West Iron County
H-Back-Jake Pearson-6-3, 220-Rapid River (All-State QB, but needed at H-B)
WR-Kurt Burmeister-6-3, 200-Marquette
QB-Alex Briones-6-2, 215-Ishpeming (two-time state champ, CMU recruit)
RB-Ray'nell Anderson-6-1, 190-Sault Ste. Marie
       Tyler LaJoie-5-10, 180-Negaunee


PK-Ryan LaBerge-5-11, 155-L'Anse


Defense- (starters)
DE-Bailey Lamb-6-1, 215-Escanaba
DT-Brad Gustafson-6-0, 250-Iron Mountain North Dickinson
DT-Sean Patchin-6-1, 265-Hancock
DE-Adam Mackey-6-3, 205-Ironwood
LB-Ryan Francour-5-9, 170-Menominee
LB-Eric Prestay-6-1, 220-Powers North Central
LB-Alex Briones-6-2, 215-Ishpeming/Jimmy Velker-6-3, 205-L'Anse
CB-Tyrus Millimaki-5-7, 150-Ishpeming
CB-Michael James-6-0, 160-Sault Ste. Marie
FS-Devon Harris-5-11, 175-Menominee
SS-Cole Tenghesdahl-6-2, 170-Kingsford


Nickel-Craig Qualley-5-9, 155-Iron Mountain
Dime-Brad Causley-6-3, 175-Cedarville


P-Eric Prestay-6-1, 220-Powers North Central


Northern Michigan-
Head Coach-Paul Walderzak-Standish-Sterling (32 years as head coach, retired this season)


Offense- (starters)
WR-Jalen Brooks-6-3, 185-Cadillac (All-State QB, but all-around athlete at WR)
TE-Jake Kaczynski-6-5, 240-Ludington
OT-Alex Stevens-6-5, 270-West Branch Ogemaw Heights
OG-Jake Wojtoviets-5-11, 255-Atlanta/Colton Hudak-6-2, 220-Cheboygan
C-Tristen Fleet-6-3, 275-Mancelona
OG-Connor Hayes-6-4, 290-Traverse City West
OT-Lucas Walesky-6-4, 270-Grayling
WR-Tyler McClanahan-5-11, 175-Grayling
H-Back-David Walker-6-3, 235-Harbor Springs
QB-Drew Marion-6-2, 185-Lake City
RB-Trevor Apsey-6-0, 205-Maple City Glen Lake
       Nathan Fettes-5-7, 205-Lincoln Alcona


PK-Jake Gorter-5-11, 175-Traverse City Central


Defense- (starters)
DE-Clay Walderzak-6-3, 245-Standish Sterling
DT-Jake Khoury-6-3, 285-Traverse City St. Francis
DT-Lucas Weichel-6-4, 330-Lincoln Alcona
DE-Anthony Duran-6-2, 220-Petoskey/Seth Malcolm-6-3, 240-Standish Sterling
LB-Bryon Bullough-6-2, 220-Traverse City St. Francis
LB-Kaleb Hauser-6-2, 225-Kalkaska
LB-Brad Fall-6-0, 215-Marion
CB-Demetri Trice-5-10, 170-Gladwin
CB-Will Noble-6-2, 180-Kalkaska
FS-Seth Thomey-5-11, 160-Mio Au Sable
SS-Chris Lopez-6-2, 180-Rogers City


Nickel-Jens Gillings-5-10, 175-Whittemore-Prescott
Dime-Kevin Kunkel-5-10, 165-Lake City/Devin Griffus-6-1, 200-W. Branch Og. Hts.


P-Tyler Antar-5-10, 170-Alpena


-- The area of northern Michigan (for clarity's sake) for this all-star squad would be from Clare, north to Mackinaw City and all points in between.

Ferris State's 2014 recruiting class is off-the-charts good

Well, it's been a month or so since signing day and what a year it was for high school football in Michigan. With close to 80 players signing with Division I programs, the Great Lakes State continues to make its mark on the college football landscape.


While having players sign with D-I colleges is fine and dandy, no other state in the union has a stronger contingent of D-II football programs than Michigan. I don't have all the stats and figures, but I'd say it would be a pretty good bet that Michigan has more former D-II college football players competing in the NFL than any other state in the country. Our D-II schools are some of -- if not the -- strongest and most nationally prominent in the nation. That being said, I recently decided to take a look at our state's 2014 D-II recruiting classes and, boy, did our programs clean up. So many of the players committing to D-II schools in Michigan are definite D-I level gridders.


In looking over the classes, one group stood out the most. I think in the coming years, the GLIAC will start seeing a new power -- Ferris State. The Bulldogs' 2014 recruiting class is off-the-charts good. It's filled with high D-I level recruits. I'm excited to see how good Ferris State will be in three or four years when this season's class, combined with the 2013 class, will be juniors and seniors. It appears the GLIAC "block" just got a little tougher. Bulldog head coach Tony Annese is tearing it up on the recruiting trail in Michigan. Annese, wildly successful as a coach in Michigan, especially at state powerhouse Muskegon where he won three state championships in the 2000s, and at Grand Rapids Community College, where he won two national championships in 2009 and 2011, before hiring in as FSU head coach in 2012, could be one of the state's best college football coaches regardless of division. He's definitely one of the best instate recruiters. Grand Valley State has ruled the GLIAC for a while, but the Lakers might have consistent company at the top if Annese remains at FSU and continues to diligently recruit the state of Michigan.


Look at a few of the D-I level players Annese inked in this year's 2014 class-
Malik Taylor-6-2, 195-Montrose-WR-DB-LB-No. 13-ranked player in Michigan
Lorenzo Collins-6-0, 210-RB-LB-Farmington Hills Harrison-No. 25-ranked player in Michigan
Devonte McGregor-6-4, 205-LB-DE-Taylor Truman-No. 49-ranked player in Michigan
Kyle Baldwin-6-3, 245-DT-TE-Madison Hts. Madison-No. 56-ranked player in Michigan
Spencer Viening-6-1, 220-LB-Zeeland East-No. 65-ranked player in Michigan
Hunter Lassiter-6-4, 255-TE-OG-Portage Central-No. 71-ranked player in Michigan
Will Hunt-6-0, 220-LB-Muskegon-No. 79-ranked player in Michigan
Jalen Brooks-6-3, 190-QB-Cadillac-No. 99-ranked player in Michigan
Nashon Burns-6-3, 285-OG-Detroit Cass Tech-No. 102-ranked player in Michigan
Christopher Okoye-6-6, 320-DT-Detroit Catholic Central-No. 120-ranked player in Michigan


This class includes two players in Michigan's top 25, three in the top 50 and eight in the state's top 100. For a D-II school, that's pretty impressive, to say the least. In contrast, traditional and national powerhouse GVSU received commitments from two players in Michigan's top 100 and three total in the top 150 for the 2014 class. Grand Valley State is Grand Valley State and they'll continue to churn out GLIAC title contenders and NFL prospects every year, but the Bulldogs are definitely nipping at the Lakers' heels, especially with Annese at the helm.


Look at this possible line-up (with weights for players adjusted for time) for Ferris State in three or four years, when the classes of 2013 and 2014 are juniors and seniors. There is D-I talent at virtually every position.


(In a three wide receiver set)
WR-Brandon Moore-6-2, 200-Sr.-Montrose-My No. 1 wide receiver in the 2013 class
WR-Davon Haines-6-0, 180-Sr.-East Lansing
TE-Hunter Lassiter-6-4, 265-Jr.-Portage Central-Originally a CMU commit, could move to OG
OT-Tyler James-6-6, 305-Sr.-Stanton Central Montcalm
OG-Lamar Jenkins-6-2, 315-Sr.-Grand Blanc
C-Jake Daugherty-6-2, 290-Sr.-Big Rapids-Local boy, could play DT or OG, I like him at C
OG-Nashon Burns-6-3, 305-Jr.-Detroit Cass Tech-Three-year starter at state power
OT-Kevin Reidt-6-4, 310-Jr.-Chippewa Valley-Another three-year starter from power program
WR-Malik Taylor-6-2, 205-Jr.-Montrose-Could be next Jeff Janis (Tawas, SVSU, NFL draftee)
QB-Jalen Brooks-6-3, 200-Jr.-Cadillac-Dual threat run/pass QB
RB-Lorenzo Collins-6-0, 225-Jr.-Farmington Hills Harrison-My. No. 1 running back in 2014 class


(In a 4-3 defensive set)
DE-Dalvin Rubens-6-2, 255-Sr.-Taylor Truman
DT-Kyle Baldwin-6-3, 285-Jr.-MH Madison-Reminds me of Jason Jones (Lathrup, EMU, NFL)
DT-Torrey Appel-6-2, 305-Sr.-Grand Haven-Also OG, but I like him as run-stuffing DT
DE-Devonte McGregor-6-4, 245-Jr.-Taylor Truman-Needs to gain 35-40 pounds in three years
LB-Spencer Viening-6-1, 235-Jr.-Zeeland East-What a great get for Annese, star in the making
LB-Kaleb Ringer-5-11, 245-Sr.-Dayton, OH-Former U-M recruit.
LB-Anthony White-6-2, 225-Sr.-Lansing Everett-4.6 speed off the edge
CB-Ryheem Stokes-5-11, 185-Sr.-Grand Rapids Catholic Central-Next D-II Brandon Carr
CB-Keyon Addison-6-1, 190-Jr.-Saginaw-Big time sleeper, 4.4 speed, D-I athlete
FS-Ato Condelee-6-0, 195-Sr.-Holland West Ottawa-D-I track recruit, speed to burn
SS-Jacob Allan-6-3, 210-Jr.-Portage Central


Sorry for the long blog on FSU, but I couldn't believe the class Annese brought in this season. Plus, when added with last year's class, the Bulldogs certainly look to be a power to be reckoned with in the coming seasons in the GLIAC. Should be interesting...

Grading the 2014 instate recruiting classes

Another national signing day has come and gone this season and as usual a significant number of Michigan kids put pen to paper making it official as to which school they will attend in the fall. This year, the Great Lakes State had 78 players (so far) from the class of 2014 sign national letters of intent with Division I programs. Last year, 63 players signed with Division I schools, while in 2012, Michigan had over 80 players sign with D-I programs.


Though having 78 players or so sign to compete at college football's highest level is impressive, I believe the state of Michigan should have no less than 100 gridders every season commit to Division I schools. Michigan has more than enough talent inside our borders to fill rosters of multiple Division I programs, especially at our five D-I in-state colleges.


With that in mind, here are my grades for Michigan's five Division I playing football schools and their overall recruitment and ability to sign our state's top players. Grades are only regarding each school's focus on and ability to scout, recruit and, in the end, attract and sign the best players in Michigan. The grade is not indicative of the overall class, including in-state and out-state players.


Michigan State-
B-
The Spartans did a solid job in Michigan this season, but not spectacular. Michigan State signed seven players from inside our borders out of a class of 22. Besides the seven from Michigan, the Spartans signed four players each from Illinois and Ohio, two from Florida and one apiece from Wisconsin, California, Pennsylvania, Georgia and New Jersey. Instate gridders I thought MSU missed on were WR-H-Back-P-K Cooper Mojsiejenko (6-4, 220) from Bridgman, DE Jonathon Williams (6-5, 235, 4.5 40) from Berrien Springs and LB William White (6-1, 220) from Detroit Cass Tech. Mojsiejenko, whose father Ralf played for Michigan State and later was a Pro Bowl punter in the NFL with the San Diego Chargers, signed with CMU, while Williams, whose prep teammate OL Nick Padla committed to the Spartans, signed with Notre Dame and White, whose high school teammate LB Deon Drake signed with MSU, inked his signature with Buffalo.


Michigan-
C
The Wolverines did okay, I guess, in Michigan this year, but a part of me is a bit disappointed. The instate guys they did get are outstanding, but I simply would have liked to have seen more Michigan kids brought in by the Wolverines this season. I'm just sayin'... Out of a class of 16, U-M signed only four players from the Great Lakes State and two each from New Jersey, Maryland, Florida and Ohio. The Wolverines also signed one each from Illinois, Utah, Virginia and Pennsylvania. Instate guys I thought U-M missed on included DT-OG Jordan Van Dort (6-5, 285) from D-3 state champion Zeeland West, OG-C-DT Nick Matich (6-3, 300) from D-1 state title-winner Clarkston and OT Tommy Doles (6-5, 265) from Grand Rapids Christian. Van Dort and Matich signed with WMU, while Doles committed to Northwestern.


Eastern Michigan-
B
For the first time in more than a decade, the Eagles actually put the "Michigan" back in Eastern Michigan. Out of a class of 17, the Eagles inked nine players from the state -- imagine that. For first-year head coach Chris Creighton, being able to sign that many kids from inside the state's borders, in a very short amount of time after being a late hire, should please EMU fans everywhere. If Eastern and Coach Creighton can put together three or four more classes in a row like this one filled with talented Michigan players, the times, well, they will be a-changin' in Ypsilanti, that's for sure -- and for the better. EMU alumni and fans should be pleasantly encouraged by this class and Creighton's apparent focus on building his program with Michigan kids, as should be the case every year. Let's hope this trend continues. I guess only time will tell...


Western Michigan-
A
Wow, what can I say. What a class for the Broncos. No check that, what a MONSTER class for the Broncos. Coach P.J. Fleck, in his second season, has quickly turned WMU into a recruiting dynamo instate. Whereas previous head coaches at Western strangely and without explanation seemed to turn away, for the most part, from Michigan high school football players (despite the majority of the Broncos' future NFL players during those years hailing from Michigan -- go figure) and focus more outstate, Fleck has definitely made the inward move and opened up WMU's program to Michigan kids. Smart move, Mr. Fleck, smart move indeed. Look at the results. Out of a class of 27, the Broncos signed 12 players from the Great Lakes State, while four come from Illinois and two apiece from Indiana, Ohio and Florida. Rounding out the WMU class included one player each from New Jersey, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Georgia and Massachusetts.


Where to start, when discussing this class? How about up front, where we all know games are won. With signees like OT-OG Curtis Doyle (6-5, 305) from Alma, OT Chukwuma Okorafor (6-5, 275) from Southfield and OT Elliot Jordan (6-7, 265) from East Kentwood, Western has three Big Ten-level guys to build its future offensive line around. Throw in DT-OG Jordan Van Dort (6-5, 285) from Zeeland West, DT Kenny Finley (6-3, 280) from Muskegon and DT-C-OG Nick Matich (6-3, 300) from Clarkston and that's MAC championship and national top 25-like in the trenches on both sides for the Broncos. Then add for good measure two of Michigan's best at their respective positions in QB Chance Stewart (6-5, 220) from Sturgis and WR-S Asantay Brown (6-0, 190) from Muskegon Mona Shores and WMU has one of the best classes in recent MAC history. With this class, Western Michigan fans should be lining up right now for season tickets, because if Fleck and staff continue to recruit the state in this manner and continue to attract this type of instate talent on a yearly basis, not only will the Broncos compete for MAC championships, but they also will be bowl bound and nationally ranked every season. Row, row, row...


Central Michigan-
A
Just another great job by Coach Dan Enos and staff recruiting the state of Michigan this season. Enos, though WMU's Fleck is hot on his heels, rules this state when it comes to identifying, evaluating and signing instate football talent. Enos has been progressing with his program every season and the Chippewas appear poised to reach the upper echelon of the MAC and start cracking the national top 25 every year. Out of a class of 18, CMU signed 12 from Michigan. Combine this class with last season's signees and Chippewa fans young and old should be smiling. The future (and the present) is bright for CMU, indeed. Highlights for the CMU 2014 class include DE Nate Brisson-Fast (6-5, 245, 4.6 40) from Ferndale, DE-DT-OT Alex Neering (6-7, 250) from Essexville-Garber, CB-WR-KR Amari Coleman (5-11, 180, 4.4 40) from New Lothrop, WR-H-Back-P-K Cooper Mojsiejenko (6-4, 220) from Bridgman, TB Devon Spalding (5-11, 200) from Westland John Glenn and TE-DE Clay Walderzak (6-4, 245) from Standish-Sterling. I'm telling you Chips fans, the talent is building and growing for a long run at the top for CMU football -- hang in there.

Top 150 football players for Michigan's class of 2014

With National Signing Day only a few short weeks away, here's a look at the top 150 players for Michigan's class of 2014. Every one of these players can suit up and compete at the Division I college football level (high, mid, low). The question is not if these gridders can play Division I college football, but if recruiting coordinators and coaches from Michigan's five D-I college football playing schools, along with other D-I staffs from throughout the Midwest and the country, will take the time to recruit and scout the entire state to find these prospects. In fact, quite a few D-I verbal commits from the class of 2014 are not in my top 100. The talent is definitely available in Michigan -- I believe that's without question.


1. Malik McDowell-6-6, 290-DT-Southfield-Michigan State
2. Drake Harris-6-4, 195-WR-Grand Rapids Christian-U-M
3. Damon Webb-6-0, 180-DB-Detroit Cass Tech-Ohio State
4. Jalen Watts-Jackson-5-11, 180-Orchard Lake St. Mary's-Michigan State
5. Lawrence Marshall-6-3, 225-DE-Southfield-U-M
6. Jonathan Williams-6-5, 235-DE-Berrien Springs-Notre Dame
7. William White-6-1, 220-LB-Detroit Cass Tech-Buffalo
8. Chance Stewart-6-5, 220-QB-Sturgis-WMU
9. Tommy Doles-6-5, 255-OT-Grand Rapids Christian-Northwestern
10. Jordan Van Dort-6-5, 305-DT-OT-Zeeland West-WMU
11. Nick Matich-6-3, 300-OG-C-Clarkston-WMU
12. Travis Smith-6-3, 200-QB-Ithaca-Wake Forest
13. Malik Taylor-6-2, 195-WR-DB-LB-Montrose-Ferris State
14. Matt Sokol-6-6, 225-TE-Rochester Adams-Michigan State
15. Cooper Mojsiejenko-6-4, 215-WR-TE-P-K-Bridgman-CMU
16. Maurice Ways-6-3, 195-WR-Detroit Country Day-U-M
17. Kyle Rachwal-6-3, 220-LB-TE-Lapeer East-EMU
18. Jalen Embry-5-11, 185-DB-Detroit King-Iowa
19. Nick Padla-6-6, 285-OG-OT-Berrien Springs-Michigan State
20. Ross Williams-5-10, 170-DB-Birmingham Groves-EMU
21. Connor Hayes-6-4, 295-OG-Traverse City West-Pittsburgh
22. David Walker-6-3, 225-TE-H-Back-Harbor Springs-Harvard
23. Jared Wangler-6-2, 215-LB-Warren DeLaSalle-U-M
24. Tyler Wiegers-6-3, 195-QB-Detroit Country Day-Iowa
25. Lorenzo Collins-6-0, 210-RB-LB-Farmington Hills Harrison-Ferris State


26. David Beedle-6-5, 285-DT-Clarkston-Michigan State
27. Elliot Jordan-6-7, 265-OT-East Kentwood-WMU
28. Nate Brisson-Fast-6-6, 245-DE-Ferndale-CMU
29. Alex Neering-6-7, 255-DE-DT-Essexville-Garber-CMU
30. Kenny Finley-6-3, 285-DT-Muskegon-WMU
31. Dylan Roney-6-3, 235-DE-Detroit Catholic Central-Navy
32. Asantay Brown-6-1, 185-WR-DB-Muskegon Mona Shores-WMU
33. Amari Coleman-5-10, 175-WR-DB-New Lothrop-CMU
34. Nic Matierre-Bay-6-2, 255-DE-Flint Southwestern-Austin Peay
35. Tim Cason-6-0, 180-DB-Clarkston-Purdue
36. Austin Labus-6-6, 280-OT-Portage Northern-Bowling Green State
37. Jake Kacynski-6-5, 245-TE-Ludington-Michigan Tech
38. Curtis Doyle-6-6, 285-OT-Alma-WMU
39. Byron Bullough-6-2, 215-DB-LB-Traverse City St. Francis-Michigan State
40. Avonte Maddox-5-9, 170-RB-DB-WR-Detroit King-Pittsburgh
41. Alec Stevens-6-5, 275-OT-West Branch Ogemaw Heights-Siena Heights
42. Paris Bennett-6-0, 215-LB-U-D Jesuit-Syracuse
43. Jason Alessi-6-1, 185-DB-WR-K-Birmingham Brother Rice-Yale
44. Zach Bock-6-0, 190-WR-K-Detroit Catholic Central-WMU (for soccer)
45. Jevonte Alexander-5-9, 185-DB-Flint Carman-Ainsworth-Indiana State
46. Ian Erickson-5-10, 190-RB-Clarkston-EMU
47. Malik King-6-4, 275-OG-Muskegon-Ball State
48. Chukwuma Okorafor-6-5, 290-OT-Southfield-WMU
49. Devonte McGregor-6-4, 205-LB-Taylor Truman-Ferris State
50. Mitch Stanitzek-6-5, 235-DE-Grand Rapids West Catholic-CMU


51. Kyle Bambard-5-9, 175-PK-P-Walled Lake Western-North Carolina State
52. Michael Tweh-5-10, 205-RB-Mount Pleasant-Saginaw Valley State
53. Gary Hosey-6-0, 230-RB-LB-Detroit Cass Tech-Buffalo
54. Chris Hendricks-6-4, 275-DT-OT-Fruitport-EMU
55. Clay Walderzack-6-4, 245-DE-TE-Standish-Sterling-CMU
56. Kyle Baldwin-6-3, 245-DE-Madison Height Madison-Ferris State
57. Jake Barann-6-6, 255-TE-Allen Park-Harvard
58. Jeremiah Harris-6-5, 235-DE-Temperance Bedford-CMU
59. Bearooz Yacoobi-6-5, 270-OT-Dearborn-Purdue
60. Deon Drake-6-1, 215-LB-Detroit Cass Tech-Michigan State
61. Chris Bukoski-6-6, 275-OT-DeWitt-EMU
62. Mitch VonZittwitz-6-4, 245-TE-Utica-Grand Valley State
63. Derek Brown-6-4, 285-OG-C-Yale
64. Lucas Bezerra-6-4, 235-TE-Troy Athens-WMU
65. Spencer Viening-6-1, 220-LB-RB-Zeeland East-Ferris State
66. Richard Wilson-5-11, 205-RB-Detroit Country Day-Boston College
67. Danny Welke-6-4, 190-QB-Marshall
68. Evan Adkins-6-6, 285-OT-Hudsonville-Navy
69. Jake Pearson-6-3, 225-QB-Rapid River-Northern Michigan
70. Damon Singleton-6-2, 215-LB-Wyandotte-Ball State
71. Hunter Lassiter-6-4, 255-OG-Portage Central-Ferris State
72. Doug Freeman-5-10, 205-DB-RB-LB-Buchanan
73. Blake Williams-6-4, 255-TE-Romeo-North Dakota State
75. Eli Harper-6-2, 305-DT-Vassar


76. Alex Joss-6-5, 275-OT-Walled Lake Western-Ball State
77. Trent Grimes-6-1, 205-DB-LB-Flint Powers Catholic-CMU
78. Devon Spalding-6-1, 185-RB-Westland John Glenn-CMU
79. Will Hunt-6-0, 220-LB-Muskegon-Ferris State
80. Danny Bauder-5-9, 185-RB-WR-KR-Zeeland West-Northern Michigan
81. Drew Dowding-6-2, 215-LB-Michigan Center-Wayne State
82. Brian Sanders-6-4, 240-DE-Detroit Cass Tech-Bowling Green State
83. Jacob Howe-6-2, 245-DE-FB-P-Grand Rapids Forest Hills Northern-Grand Valley State
84. Kjohn Armstrong-6-5, 275-OT-Detroit Loyola-EMU
85. Kyle Steigenga-6-5, 185-WR-Holland Christian
86. Angelo Proulx-6-0, 185-DB-Warren Mott
87. Ishmael Rembert-6-2, 245-DE-Corunna
88. Brendan Ballard-6-6, 290-Unionville-Sebewaing-Southern Illinois
89. Sean Koski-6-0, 175-QB-L'Anse Creuse North-Siena Heights
90. Zach Walker-6-0, 205-DB-RB-Grand Rapids Forest Hills Central-Robert Morris
91. Ecka Henderson-6-0, 180-DB-Saginaw Arthur Hill
92. Chris Greca-6-3, 305-DT-Grass Lake
93. Carl Fuller-6-3, 210-LB-Detroit KIng
94. Dillon Dixon-6-1, 180-DB-U-D Jesuit-Saginaw Valley State
95. Andrew Courtemanche-6-3, 185-P-K-L'Anse Creuse
96. Marquin Johnson-6-4, 200-WR-Clawson-Saginaw Valley State
97. Christian Dorobantu-6-4, 270-DT-Tecumseh-Saginaw Valley State
98. Ty Sigler-6-3, 200-QB-DB-Grand Rapids Christian-Wheaton
99. Jalen Brooks-6-3, 190-QB-WR-Cadillac-Ferris State
100. Alex Briones-6-2, 215-QB-LB-Ishpeming-CMU
        (tie) Malik Boyton-6-2, 185-WR-DB-Melvindale-Austin Peay


Next 50-
101. Brandon Sowards-6-1, 175-WR-Wyandotte-Michigan State
102. Nashon Burns-6-5, 285-OG-Detroit Cass Tech-Ferris State
103. Stephen Hanson-6-4, 285-Muskegon Reeths-Puffer
104-Jake Khoury-6-3, 285-DT-Traverse City St. Francis-Buffalo
105. Chris McDaniel-6-4, 235-DE-TE-Detroit Cass Tech-WMU
106. Derek Postma-6-5, 245-DE-Grand Rapids South Christian
107-Trevor Mason-6-2, 205-LB-Macomb Lutheran North-Concordia
108. Karl Marback-6-5, 245-DE-Birmingham Seaholm-Yale
109. Jalen Dingle-6-3, 215-DE-St. Clair Shore South Lake-Bowling Green State
110. Jeremy Hickey-6-4, 290-OT-Birmingham Brother Rice-EMU
111. Ryan Kelly-6-5, 285-OT-Lakeland-Saginaw Valley State
112. Curtis Brunson-5-10, 175-DB-WR-Farmington-Ohio
113. Brandon Scott-5-10, 180-WR-Grand Blanc-Siena Heights
114. Donnie Ernsberger-6-3, 235-LB-Battle Creek Lakeview-WMU
115. Jacob Simpson-5-10, 170-PK-Wyandotte
116. Giovanni Rescigno-6-4, 215-QB-Warren DeLaSalle-Rutgers
117. Darrell McEntire-6-0, 180-DB-Detroit Loyola-Wayne State
118. Jacari Faulkner-6-3, 235-DE-U-D Jesuit-WMU
119. David Basirico-6-1, 195-DB-Macomb Dakota-CMU
120. Christopher Okoye-6-6, 320-DT-Detroit Catholic Central-Ferris State
121. Brandon Keen-6-6, 285-OT-Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes-CMU
122. Zach Testolin-6-3, 235-DE-Battle Creek Harper Creek
123. Dimitri Angelas-6-4, 305-OG-Northville-UMass
124. Chauncey Bridges-5-10, 175-DB-RB-North Farmington-Findlay
125. Kevin Kwapis-6-9, 300-OT-Walled Lake Central-Iowa Western CC


126. Devon Harris-5-11, 170-WR-DB-Menominee-Northern Michigan
127. Zach Evans-6-2, 235-DE-Grand Rapids Kenowa Hills-Michigan Tech
128. Nic Sawyer-6-4, 280-OT-Saline-Saginaw Valley State
129. KaJuan Ocasio-6-1, 185-WR-Detroit Cody
130. Carl Miller-6-3, 190-WR-DB-Detroit Mumford
131. Delshawn Phillips-6-2, 230-LB-Detroit Cass Tech-WMU
132. Colton Pfaendtner-6-2, 290-OG-St. Clair-Siena Heights
133. Javon Cooney-5-10, 175-WR-Lansing Sexton-WMU
134. Derrick Coleman-6-4, 215-DE-Detroit Country Day
135. Peter Deppe-6-1, 185-P-PK-Almont-Northern Illinois
136. Mustafa Abdur-Rahman-5-10, 175-DB-Macomb Dakota
137. Jalen Bryant-6-1, 185-DB-Livonia Clarenceville-Grand Valley State
138. Julian Munday-6-1, 195-RB-Muskegon Reeths-Puffer
139. Ray'nell Anderson-6-1, 190-RB-Sault Ste. Marie
140. Shane Hynes-5-10, 155-PK-Clarkston-Kent State
141. Jordan Billingslea-5-9, 170-WR-Southfield-WMU
142. Brent Showers-5-11, 215-LB-Rockford-Northern Michigan
143. Corey Lacanaria-5-9, 170-WR-Birmingham Brother Rice-Ball State
144. Jeremiah Johnson-5-9, 180-RB-Pontiac Notre Dame Prep-Saginaw Valley State
145. Sean Scullen-6-3, 205-DB-WR-Rochester Hills Stoney Creek-Cornell
146. Caine Watlington-6-0, 190-DB-Clarkston-Air Force
147. Alberto Sandoval-6-4, 255-DT-Birmingham Brother Rice
148. Colin Jones-6-3, 245-DE-Holt
149. Daryl Johnson-6-3, 265-DT-OG-Flint Carman-Ainsworth-Austin Peay
150. Lavelle Griffin-6-5, 205-WR-Detroit Consortium

Top 50 high school football players for Michigan's class of 2016

Wow, just wow. That's all I can say when looking at my early list of Michigan's top 50 high school football players for the class of 2016. It doesn't matter what year, Michigan is simply overflowing with high school football talent. As I've often said in this blog, but it bears repeating, if Michigan's five D-I playing college football programs would look inward, inside Michigan's borders first and foremost and recruit this state from the Upper Peninsula to Monroe and every city and small town in between, we more than likely would be able, as fans and supporters, to enjoy five nationally ranked (or at least close to it) teams each season. The talent base is here, every year, for our five D-I playing schools to stock three-fourths (or more) of each recruiting class with in-state players AND be successful and compete for Big Ten and MAC championships. Though early, this list will surely grow in the next two seasons as 50 or more additional Division I-level players will likely emerge from throughout the state of Michigan.

Top 50 players for Michigan's class of 2016-

1. Lawrence Gordon-6-5, 235-DE-Saginaw Arthur Hill-Dominating force, strong pass rusher. Huge upside size-wise, but already talented football-wise.

2. Matthew Falcon-6-1, 200-RB-Southfield-4.4 40, speed/power combo back. Could also play LB. Alabama, Ohio State, MSU, U-M recruiting.

3. Thiyo Lukusa-6-5, 300-OT-Traverse City West-Great size/agility for large young man. MSU already has offered full-ride.

4. Daelin Hayes-6-2, 210-LB-RB-Orchard Lake St. Mary's-4.5 40, impressive speed, pass rusher/defender, MSU, U-M, Nebraska among schools recruiting.

5. David Reese-6-1, 235-LB-Farmington-Physical middle linebacker, run-stuffer, U-M, MSU recruiting hard.

6. Kalebb Perry-6-2, 170-WR-Mount Pleasant-Three-sport star for Oilers. Also top basketball player and track and field athlete. MSU is highly recruiting.

7. Ostell Martin-6-6, 300-OT-Detroit Cass Tech-Overwhelming force up front in trenches for state power. Pitt, Syracuse, U-M, MSU recruiting.

8. Michael Onwenu-6-2, 285-DT-Detroit Cass Tech-Quick, powerful player in middle of line. Notre Dame, Tennessee, MSU, U-M interested.

9. Gabe Bauman-6-3, 230-DE-Rockford-Top sophomore recruit in Grand Rapids area. From same school as Joe Staley, SF 49ers All-Pro OT.

10. Tru Wilson-5-11, 180-DB-Warren DeLaSalle-3 interceptions as starting safety for power program. MSU, U-M recruiting.

11. Spencer Peterson-6-4, 210-QB-Grand Rapids Forest Hills Northern-Top signal-caller for 2016 class. Prototype Big Ten QB body, arm.

12. Jalen Martin-6-2, 190-WR-Harper Woods Chandler Park Academy-Big frame receiver with speed. Penn State, U-M, MSU recruiting.

13. Dez Fitzpatrick-6-0, 175-WR-Farmington-Deep threat with good hands/size. Maryland, Indiana, U-M, MSU in on early.

14. Martell Pettaway-5-9, 190-RB-St. Clair Shores South Lake-Can take it the distance from anywhere on the field. U-M, MSU recruiting hard.

15. Juanye Johnson-6-3, 275-OG-Muskegon-Starter on D-2 state runner-up. Excellent drive blocker for state power.

16. Lucas Thompson-6-0, 170-DB-Grand Rapids Christian-Starter since freshman year. Big cornerback with speed.

17. Jesse Johnson-5-11, 180-DB-Detroit King-Starting safety for Detroit Public School League power. Cousin Deon Johnson played at U-M. Toledo offer.

18. Lavert Hill-5-10, 165-DB-Detroit Cass Tech-Next in line as big time DB from school that has produced multiple D-I DBs. Iowa, U-M, MSU interested.

19. Demetric Vance-6-2, 180-WR-Detroit Cass Tech-Fourth Technician in my Top 20 for 2016. Big frame, speed, hands for state power. Cincinnati, LSU.

20. Sam Hartwig-6-4, 250-OT-Menominee-Starter for D-5 state runner-up. Top Upper Peninsula recruit for 2016. Pure run blocker, tough, hard-nosed.

21. Eric Rogers-6-1, 230-LB-Warren DeLaSalle-Sure tackler in middle for Detroit Catholic League power. Will be three-year starter for Pilots.

22. Jaylen Browder-6-5, 230-DE-Saginaw Arthur Hill-Teams with No. 1 2016 recruit Lawrence Gordon to form intimidating DE duo.

23. Eyioma Uwozurike-6-5, 230-DE-Southfield Lathrup-A sleeper with huge potential. Big frame, good mobility.

24. Ba Blamo-6-0, 205-RB-DE-LB-Grand Ledge-Intriguing prospect. Finished sixth in state in 100 meters as freshman (11.3), also top wrestler.

25. Colin Shock-6-3, 255-C-Macomb Dakota-Starter as sophomore for metro Detroit power.

26. Tommy Roush-6-3, 270-OG-Traverse City West-Teams with Thiyo Lukusa (No. 3 2016 prospect) to form talented front line. Northwestern interested.

27. Michael Floyd-5-10, 175-DB-Madison Heights Madison-Was sophomore starter for 11-1 team this past season. Good speed.

28. Cornelius Kellogg-5-11, 165-DB-Detroit Cody-Strong pass defender. Also plays QB. Great athlete.

29. Pat Naughton-6-1, 190-QB-Comstock Park-Threw for over 1,500 yards this past season.

30. Tony Poljan-6-7, 215-QB-Lansing Catholic-Big size, strong arm, good runner. Also one of state's top basketball prospects for 2016 class.

31. Alex Bock-5-10, 170-DB-WR-Detroit Catholic Central-Only sophomore starter on Division 1 state runner-up. Brother Zach was All-State this year.

32. Nate Jones-6-1, 210-LB-Muskegon Catholic Central-Defensive leader for D-8 state champions. Also started at center for Crusaders.

33. Armani Posey-6-1, 185-WR-Detroit East English Village-Another big wide receiver in talented class. MSU recruiting.

34. Hunter Broersma-6-1, 175-DB-WR-RB-Muskegon Mona Shores-Talented all around player. 4.5 40 speed.

35. Josh Jackson-6-2, 175-QB-Saline-Excellent scrambler, strong arm. Son of U-M assistant coach Fred Jackson.

36. Donnie Corley-6-2, 170-DB-WR-Wyandotte-Big size, match-up problem on both sides of ball.

37. Jalen Cochran-6-3, 190-LB-Canton-Great speed, athleticism for western suburban Detroit power program. Huge upside, size-wise, growth.

38. Wade Buckman-6-5, 190-QB-Holland-Big Ten frame, size. Runs a 4.8 40.

39. Marcus Wright-5-9, 170-DB-Flint Beecher-Will be four-year starter. From same school as former NFLer WR Courtney Hawkins (MSU, Beecher HC).

40. Nate Skene-6-3, 205-TE-Hartland-Frame for growth, weight gain. Dad Doug Skene was starting OT at U-M.

41. Dante Razzano-6-2, 180-DB-QB-Edwardsburg-Sleeper prospect from southwest Michigan small town. Will be three-year starter.

42. Dennis Fitzsimmons-6-0, 210-LB-Marine City-Only sophomore starter for D-4 state champions.

43. Dontre Boyd-5-9, 160-DB-Detroit King-Started alongside Jesse Johnson (No. 17 2016 prospect) and two seniors who went D-I in secondary this year.

44. Andrew DeMoss-5-10, 205-LB-Detroit East English Village-All-Detroit first team by Detroit News, 111 tackles, 11 sacks, will be four-year starter.

45. Tylen Redding-6-1, 160-WR-Warren Mott-Brother Teo plays for Bowling Green State.

46. Jeff Timko-6-1, 190-LB-Birmingham Brother Rice-Only sophomore to play on unbeaten, nationally ranked D-2 state champion Rice squad this season.

47. Gage Kreski-6-2, 180-DB-St. Ignace-Upper Peninsula Dream Team selection this season -- only sophomore on squad. 8 interceptions.

48. Dan Perry-6-2, 260-OG-DT-Lapeer East-Strong, powerful player in trenches.

49. Nathan Fox-6-3, 240-DT-Johannesburg-Lewiston-One of the top 2016 prospects from northern Michigan.

50. Quinn Nordin-5-11, 175-P-PK-Rockford-Punted for 38 yard average this season, was 14-of-19 on FGs with long of 39 yards.

(tie) Jake Cerny-6-4, 260-OT-Traverse City West (Third O-lineman from TC West on Top 50 list), Trevor Tank-6-2, 215-LB-South Lyon, Carl Myers-6-2, 220-DL-OL-Grand Rapids West Catholic (Two-way starter on D-5 state champions), Khalid Kareem-6-4, 235-DE-Farmington Hills Harrison, Davonte Lynum-6-4, 285-DT-OT-Detroit Cody, Tom Kowalkoski-6-4, 270-OT-DT-Detroit Catholic Central, John Mantei-6-0, 180-RB-DB-Gladwin (Sleeper prospect from northern Michigan small town), Matt Sexton-6-0, 170-WR-Clinton, Ronathan Elmore-6-3, 205-DE-TE-Belleville (4.8 40, 8 sacks), Dylan Swanson-6-4, 245-OT-DT-Belleville, Zach VanValkenburg-6-4, 220-DE-Zeeland West (starter on D-3 state champions), Christian Boyd-6-2, 270-DT-Muskegon Mona Shores, Nolan Meekhof-6-1, 220-RB-LB-Grandville (4.6 40), Marlon Dorsey-5-11, 160-DB-East Kentwood, Jelani Taylor-5-10, 170-DB-WR-Flint Beecher, Kyle Augustine-6-2, 295-OG-Gaylord (will be three-year starter for Blue Devils),  Hunter Buczkowski-6-0, 215-LB-Mount Pleasant (Over 120 tackles this past season for Oilers).

 

 

 

 

Top 10 wide receivers in Michigan's class of 2015

For anyone who follows Michigan high school football, it's widely known the Great Lakes State produces some of the nation's best wide receivers every season. While the class of 2015 might not have the height or athleticism of last year's 2014 standouts (Drake Harris-6-4, 195-Grand Rapids Christian, Maurice Ways-6-3, 195-Detroit Country Day, both U-M recruits), it does make up for it with route running, hands and toughness (think Golden Tate, Reggie Wayne, Hines Ward type receivers). Every team needs a Tate, Wayne or Ward type receiver and in 2015 Michigan is filled with guys who fit that bill.

Wide Receiver-

1. Grant Perry-6-0, 180-Birmingham Brother Rice-Catches everything. Precise route-running. Two-way starter for Rice.

2. Damon Terry-6-0, 175-Lansing Everett-Big play waiting to happen. 40 rec., 888 yds., 12 TDs this past year. MSU recruiting.

3. Ray Buford-6-1, 180-Southfield-Deep threat. Speed to go deep. Standout on team loaded with D-I college talent.

4. Nick Marosi-6-2, 195-Grand Rapids Catholic Central-Good size, hands for Grand Rapids power.

5. Joeviair Kennedy-6-2, 180-Muskegon-Elite athlete, starter for D-2 state runner-up.

6. Malik Whitehead-6-0, 175-Detroit Denby-All-Detroit by Detroit News. All-around player. Also top DB, RB.

7. Jaylin Gholston-6-3, 180-Madison Heights Madison-Tall, lanky receiver with deep speed.

8. K.J. Osborn-6-0, 175-Ypsilanti Lincoln-36 rec., 643 yds., 9 TDs. All-Ann Arbor News first teamer. Talented CB.

9. Eric VanVoorst-6-3, 185-Grand Rapids South Christian-Top target for QB Jon Wassink. Tough receiver for state runner-up.

10. Sam Beal-6-2, 170-Grand Rapids Ottawa Hills-Diamond-in-the-rough type guy. School record-holder in 200 meters. Has clocked 10.6 100 and 21.7 200.

(tie) Nate Couturier-5-10, 165-Allendale-Already two-time Grand Rapids Press Dream Teamer. Small size, but productive.

Other top receivers-Mason Van Pamel-6-3, 190-Hillman (All-Alpena News first team, 32 rec., 570 yds., 10 TDs, also Class D All-State hoops player), Mike Parker-6-0, 170-Muskegon Orchard View (Muskegon Chronicle All-Area, 18 receptions, 617 yards, 9 touchdowns, also top cornerback), Collin Watters-6-3, 205-Gaylord (also standout LB), Jimmy Schindler-6-5, 190-Warren Woods Tower (4.6 40, 25 receptions, 515 yards, 5 TDs), Caleb Richard-6-0, 195-Midland Dow (All-Saginaw News first team, 25 catches, 597 yards, 6 TDs, 717 yards rushing, 11 TDs).

Top 10 running backs for Michigan's class of 2015

The running back position in Michigan is fully stocked with Division I college football talent in 2015. The top four on this list can play for anyone in the country, while the rest can compete at some level of Division I.

Running Back-
1. Mike Weber-5-11, 205-Detroit Cass Tech-Will be three-year starter for state powerhouse. MSU, U-M recruiting. My No. 5 overall prospect in Michigan.

2. Alex Grace-6-2, 205-Saginaw Swan Valley-Rushed for almost 3,000 yds. this season. 4.4 speed, power. Could also be big-hitting safety or bulk up and play rush linebacker.

3. Josh Holloman-5-11, 185-Auburn Hills Avondale-Ran 4.2 40 at Alabama camp. Defending state 100 meter champ as soph.
4. Khari Willis-6-2, 200-Jackson Lumen Christi-Ran for 1,563 yds., 27 TDs, Jackson Citizen-Patriot Player of Year, MSU offer already.

5. Juan Johnson-5-8, 185-Madison Heights Madison-A blur on the field. 4.5 40. Also one of state's top cornerbacks.

6. Marvin Campbell-5-10, 200-Detroit Loyola-Big, power back. Ran for 1,262 yards for D-7 state runner-up.
7. Oscar Brown-5-9, 180-Romulus-Best back at Romulus since Fred Russell (Iowa). Has run 4.3 40. Raw, but talented.

8. Jaylian Henderson-5-7, 170-Midland Bullock Creek-Small, but highly productive. All-Saginaw News, 2,135 yds., 24 TDs.

9. JaWuan Taylor-5-9, 160-Flint Beecher-Flint Journal Dream Teamer, 1,388 yds., on 146 carries, 18 TDs.

10. E.J. Jackson-5-8, 185-Lansing Eastern-Speed-burner from Capital City. AP All-State this past season.


Other top running backs-Lee Graff-6-0, 190-Crystal Falls Forest Park (U.P. Dream Team selection from traditional small school state power), Ben Heinritz-5-11, 200 (starter for D-3 state runner-up), Josh Awrey-5-9, 175-West Branch Ogemaw Heights, Tommy Scott-5-8, 165-Muskegon Catholic Central (two-way starter for D-8 state champions, also lockdown CB), Javon Wray-5-6, 170-Lansing Sexton (Lansing State Journal Dream Teamer, 1,228 yards rushing, 18 TDs).

Top 10 quarterbacks for Michigan's class of 2015

Michigan's class of 2015 quarterback position group is one of the best and deepest in state history. If Michigan's five Division I playing college football programs cannot find a future starting QB from amongst this talented list, then recruiting coordinators from all over the state need to find another job -- in another field.

 

Quarterback- (Top four are being recruited by everybody)

1. Alex Malzone-6-3, 200-Birmingham Brother Rice-Led Warriors to two straight D-2 state championships. Size, arm strength, athleticism, Malzone is Big Ten ready. My No. 4 overall prospect in state.
2. Jayru Campbell-6-4, 195-Detroit Cass Tech-Will be four-year starter for Technicians. MSU verbal commit. Outstanding arm, speed, vision.
3. Jon Wassink-6-2, 190-Grand Rapids South Christian-Has led S. Christian to back-to-back D-4 state finals.
4. Jake Johnson-6-2, 190-DeWitt-Another flat out winner. Led DeWitt to D-3 state final this past season.
5. Travis Russell-6-2, 185-Grand Rapids West Catholic-Led W. Catholic to two consecutive D-5 state finals.
6. Tyree Jackson-6-3, 180-Muskegon Mona Shores-Passed for 2,221 yds., 28 TDs, 6 ints, rushed for 341 yds., 3 TDs in football crazy town.
7. Brandon Childress-6-3, 185-Baldwin-Passed for 1,081 yds., 11 TDs, rushed for 1,185 yds., 20 TDs. Also excellent hoops player. From small town, but definitely big time talent.
8. Collin Goslin-6-2, 200-Dearborn Divine Child-Will be four-year starter at legendary Catholic League power. Also top baseball player for state-ranked program.
9. Mason Opple-6-2, 195-Hudsonville-Tim Tebow-like combo of pass/run. Led team to D-1 state quarterfinals this year. Another star baseball player. Could play either sport, or both, at next level.
10. Glacier Wallington-5-10, 180-Oxford-Michigan's version of Russell Wilson. Will be four-year starter. Also one of state's best defensive backs.

Other top quarterbacks-Jamison Green-6-4, 175-Big Rapids, Mikey Roth-5-11, 185-East Grand Rapids, Adam Trautman-6-4, 190-Elk Rapids, David Loney-6-3, 195-Frankfort, Donovan Stewart-6-1, 185-Wyandotte, Adam Stremlow-6-2, 180-Coleman (2,000 yds., 27 TDs), Alex Mussat-6-2, 175-Troy, Greg Williams-6-2, 190-Canton, Jay Doll-6-1, 170-Paw Paw, Anton Skupin-6-4, 185-South Lyon, Dakota Cupp-6-2, 190-Waterford Mott, Ty Sparks-6-1, 175-Clawson, Jake Zorn-6-3, 190-Holly.