Ann Arbor/Southern Michigan All-Region Team

The Ann Arbor/Southern Michigan All-Region squad is an area consisting of Livingston and Washtenaw Counties in the north and Hillsdale, Lenawee and Monroe Counties in the south. It's an area steeped in high school football lore, while each year the region produces multiple high-level Division I college football recruits. The region has produced its share of NFL talent, as well, both player-wise and within the coaching ranks. Some notable NFL players from the area include TE Rodney Holman (Ypsilanti, Tulane, NFL), LB Audie Cole (Monroe, North Carolina State, NFL), C Chris Morris (Temperance Bedford, MSU, NFL), TE Tony Scheffler (Chelsea, WMU, NFL), CB Mike Bass (Ypsilanti, U-M, NFL), QB Jim Harbaugh (Ann Arbor Pioneer, U-M, NFL), John Harbaugh (Ann Arbor Pioneer, Miami (OH), NFL head coach, Baltimore Ravens), TE Kellen Davis (Adrian, MSU, NFL), QB Drew Henson (Brighton, U-M, NFL and Major League Baseball), TE Chris Baker (MSU, Saline, NFL), DB Keith Bostic (Ann Arbor Pioneer, U-M, NFL) and RB-WR-KR Nick Davis (Manchester, Wisconsin, NFL). I could go on and on, this region has so many former and current NFL players, it's remarkable. The 2017 Ann Arbor/Southern Michigan All-Region team is dripping with high-level D-I college football talent. Here is the 2017 Ann Arbor/Southern Michigan All-Region squad --

Ann Arbor/Southern Michigan All-Region Team -- 

WR-Matt Harmon-6-5, 215-Ypsilanti- One of my favorite prospects in the state of Michigan. I love elite athletes who can play on both sides of the football. Harmon is a D-I hoops player, as well, for one of Michigan's top basketball programs. His future, though, could be in football. I actually can envision him on either side of the ball at the next level. He could be a "Megatron"-type WR at 6-5, 235 or an H-back or defensively, a 6-5, 230-240 LB with speed, explosiveness and athleticism. Already receiving multiple offers from high-level D-I schools. Locally, though, U-M, MSU where are you??
TE-Emmett Turner-6-4, 215-Saline- Intriguing prospect. Top-notch basketball player, as well. Key cog and two-year starter for the Hornets, one of Michigan's top football programs.
       Lukas Coker-6-3, 235-Tecumseh
OL-Michael Furtney-6-5, 290-Milan- Verbal to Wisconsin. I guess there's a reason the Badgers have recruited and received only one commitment from an O-lineman -- Furtney is that good.
OL-Lucas Tesznar-6-5, 305-Ottawa Lake-Whiteford- A perfect example of a small town, small school guy who is being overlooked. Tesznar is a two-time All-State performer in the trenches for the 2017 D-8 state champions. He's Big Ten/MAC all the way. I project him to flesh out at 6-5, 335 and be a beast at OG for some smart, hard-working D-I head coach.
OL-Drew Harmon-6-6, 275-Monroe
OL-Jacob Vigliotti-6-5, 325-Petersburg-Summerfield
OL-Dimitri Douglas-6-5, 285-Saline- Verbal to MSU. Great job by the Spartans finding, evaluating and receiving a commitment from Douglas. He's a big-time talent. I'd like to see MSU (and other Big Ten schools) continue the trend of digging deep throughout the state of Michigan for similar skilled, high-level guys like Douglas -- players like Douglas (who was a bit under-recruited at one time) are found in every corner of the state.
WR-Nick Cain-6-0, 175-Pinckney
WR-Rudy Ramirez-6-0, 180-Brighton
QB-Cam Thompson-5-9, 170-Ypsilanti Lincoln- Speedy and shifty, Thompson is the "Russell Wilson"-type QB in Michigan this year.
RB-Derek Thomason-5-11, 205-Ypsilanti Lincoln
       Malik Ray-5-10, 180-Hudson

PK-Justin Trout-5-11, 170-Carleton-Airport

DE-Ronnie Buford-6-5, 215-Chelsea- One of the premier pass rushers in the state of Michigan. Outstanding athlete, top basketball player, great quickness. I see him as a 6-5, 245 DE at the next level, with the ability to stand up and play in space as a LB, if needed. He's a bit raw, but his ceiling is as high as any player in Michigan. Verbal to WMU.
DT-Shane Yoder-6-1, 270-Temperance Bedford
DT-Rafael Reyes-6-2, 275-Chelsea
DE-Ethan Martin-6-2, 230-Hartland- Another skilled pass rusher. Not talked about much, but he had a monster season for Hartland and could flesh out to 6-2, 255 at the next level. Interesting prospect.
LB-Cauy Hendee-6-1, 230-Pinckney
LB-C.J. Gildersleeve-6-2, 225-Saline- One of Michigan's best players. Runs reportedly a 4.5 40. Dad played at CMU. Big-time hitter and tackler from LB position. Verbal to CMU.
LB-Trevor Brock-6-1, 215-Fowlerville
       Harley McCaskey-6-3, 205-Morenci
DB-Lael Onifade-5-9, 170-Ann Arbor Pioneer
DB-Kejon Hunter-5-9, 165-Ann Arbor Skyline
DB-Matt Moorer-6-1, 175-Ypsilanti Lincoln- I love this kid's potential. Another major "sleeper" in the state of Michigan. One of the Midwest's fastest players. Track and field star, who also is a skilled and explosive football player. Last June at the D-1 state track and field meet, Moorer finished first in the 400-meter run (47.42), second in the 200 meters (21.62) and seventh in the 100 meters (10.96). He's not just a "track guy" playing football -- that's what's exciting about Moorer. He's raw, yes, but he's a terrific two-way player for the Railsplitters (WR-DB). I don't know which sport he'll compete in as a collegian, but if he concentrated solely on football, he could truly be something special.
DB-Garvin Crout-6-3, 175-Ypsilanti

P-Vinnie Pateri-5-11, 165-Saline

Top Underclassmen in Ann Arbor/Southern Michigan Region (all are D-I prospects)--

OL-Tate Mackenzie-6-7, 305-Ypsilanti Lincoln-Soph.
OL- P.J. Brown-6-4, 280-Monroe-Jr.
DT-DeShaun Williams-6-4, 285-Ottawa Lake-Whiteford-Jr.
DB-RB-Alec Muck-5-11, 170-Sand Creek-Jr.- 4.4 40, state 100- and 200-meter champion.
RB-LB-Gage Daugard-6-2, 225-Howell-Jr.
DB-Tristen Hines-5-10, 170-Milan-Soph.
DT-Markus Bevier-6-2, 285-Ypsilanti-Jr.
RB-LB-Logan Murphy-6-1, 205-Ottawa Lake-Whiteford-Jr.
LB-Dennis Simmons-6-1, 220-Ann Arbor Pioneer-Jr.
DB-M.J. Griffin-6-1, 180-Saline-Jr.
DT-Josh Williams-6-3, 280-Ann Arbor Gabriel Richard-Soph.
DE-Jacob Price-6-2, 230-Pinckney-Jr.
WR-Justin Jelks-6-4, 180-Ypsilanti-Jr.
DT-OT-Austin Schultz-6-6, 270-Dundee-Jr.
WR-Hunter Neff-6-3, 185-Chelsea-Jr.
DE-Brad Wisniewski-6-4, 220-Saline-Jr.

Mid-Michigan North/South All-Region Team

The Mid-Michigan North/South Region includes a swath of land from the Jackson/Lansing area in the south to the Alma/Mount Pleasant area to the north. The high school football talent in this region of Michigan is second to none. Just off the top of my head, former NFL players from the region include, Ty Hallock (Greenville, MSU, NFL), Clarence Love (Jackson, Toledo, NFL), Steve Maidlow (East Lansing, MSU, NFL), Brock Gutierrez (Charlotte, CMU, NFL), Tony Dungy (Jackson Parkside, Minnesota, NFL, Pro Football Hall of Fame), Brad Jones (East Lansing, Colorado, NFL), Muhsin Muhammad (Lansing Waverly, MSU, NFL) and Alan Haller (Lansing Sexton, MSU, NFL). This year's 2017 Mid-Michigan North/South All-Region squad is filled to the brim with high-level Division I college football talent. Here is the 2017 Mid-Michigan North/South All-Region team --

Mid-Michigan North/South All-Region Team -- 

WR-Karl Brooks-6-5, 210-Lansing Sexton- Incredible combo package of size and speed. Brooks is also a track sprinter with 4.5 speed. Big-time LB prospect, as well. Raw, but crazy athletic talent.

TE-Braeden Childress-6-4, 225-Big Rapids- One of the best tight ends in the state of Michigan. Combines speed, size and athleticism. A match-up nightmare for any defender unlucky enough to try and defend him.

OL-John O'Brien-6-5, 250-Charlotte- Bowling Green State verbal. Best O-lineman from Charlotte since NFL player Brock Gutierrez. 

OL-Gabe Moore-6-3, 290-Olivet- I love this kid. One of my top "sleepers" in the state of Michigan. Moore is one of the most explosive interior linemen (OG or DT) in the state. He jumps off the film I've seen of him. What I also love about this guy is he plays with a nasty, physical attitude relishing pancaking opposing defenders or blowing up run plays at the line of scrimmage. Being a defensive-minded guy, I see Moore bulking up to be a 6-3, 320 disturber of the highest quality at DT for some smart, dedicated and hard-working D-I coach or recruiter. Having this guy for four or five years in a D-I program, whoa... he'd be a scary, super strong anchor in the middle by the time he'd be a RS junior or senior. 

OL-Addison Carter-6-2, 270-Grand Ledge

OL-Ian Williams-6-2, 270-Jackson Lumen Christi-Top lineman for Division 6 state champion Titans. Punishing run blocker for a power football team. Williams would make an ideal 6-2, 305 center for some Big Ten/MAC team. Outstanding leader, as well. 

OL-Riley Smith-6-4, 250-Mason

WR-Jayden Perry-6-0, 170-Mount Pleasant

WR-Noah Koenigsnecht-6-2, 180-DeWitt-I love this guy. He's as close to a Blair White (Saginaw Nouvel, MSU, NFL WR)-type clone as there is in the state of Michigan. Great hands and route runner. Sneaky fast, deep threat with legit 4.4 speed. Highly under-recruited, in my opinion. Big Ten all the way, no doubt. Plays for DeWitt (former high school of Olympic gymnast Jordyn Wieber), a Lansing area powerhouse and one of the state's best football programs. 

QB-Nolan Bird-6-2, 190-Grand Ledge-Coach's son. Three-year starter for top Lansing area program. Can do it all from the QB position. 

RB-Sebastian Toland-5-10, 175-Jackson Lumen Christi- Speed back from D-6 state championship squad. Rushed for over 2,000 yards this season. 

K-Adam Culp-6-3, 180-Ithaca- Super strong leg for D-6 state runner-up team. Has blasted over 60 kickoffs this season out of the end zone. 

DE-Jake Dorn-6-4, 250-St. Johns- Dorn has been injured off and on recently, but when healthy, this kid is one of the top 10 D-ends in the state of Michigan. Reportedly runs a 4.7 40. Has edge pass rushing skills, with bulk and size to also stuff the run. He's an intriguing prospect. 

DT-Kenyon Story-6-2, 280-Breckenridge

DT-Nathan Bellinger-6-5, 245-Ithaca

DE-Nick Jungel-6-7, 220-Olivet

LB-Colton Hyble-6-5, 225-Mount Pleasant Sacred Heart

      Zach Hessbrook-6-2, 220-Ithaca

LB-Steele Fortress-6-4, 230-Jackson County Parma Western- First off, I have to say the obvious -- What an incredible name. Perfect for a football player (or a Hollywood stuntman or really for anything). Though an awesome name, Fortress is truly one of Michigan's top 25 players overall. I love this kid. His play on both sides of the football this season has actually been better than his name. He can basically play anywhere. A star QB for Parma Western, he could possibly play that position at the D-I level or switch to TE or be a 6-4 250 MLB or a 6-4 265 DE. He's a three-sport star and a high-level baseball player, as well. Big Ten...?? Do some of these Big Ten coaches want to build winning programs and save their jobs or simply collect a paycheck? Why do they not know about a guy like this? I just shake my head...

LB-Cal Johnston-6-5, 220-Grand Ledge- Reminds me of a player I spent a lot of time covering back in the day -- TE Tony Scheffler (Chelsea, WMU, NFL). Like Scheffler, Johnston has excellent hands and mobility for a big guy as a WR-TE-type player on offense and quick closing speed as a SS-LB on defense. Also like Scheffler, Johnston is an All-State baseball player.
       Kyle Minder-6-1, 210-Jackson Lumen Christi

DB-Cody Blankenburg-5-9, 175-Lansing Sexton- Pure speed. Talented two-way player as a RB or CB from program that has churned out D-I football players like the local Oldsmobile plants of yore. Big Ten-level talent on either side of the football. 

DB-Dominique Clerkley-5-9, 170-Okemos

DB-Joey Bentley-6-2, 190-Ithaca- Prolific QB, can do it all passing or running for D-6 state runner-up. Outstanding punter, as well. Could play safety at next level. Pure, natural, instinctive-type player. 

DB-Blake Underwood-6-3, 190-East Lansing- Miami (OH) verbal. Could play WR or DB at the next level. 

P-Connor Charamella-6-0, 200-East Lansing

Top Underclassmen in Mid-Michigan North/South Region (all are D-I prospects) -- 

OL-DT-Brock Jordan-6-3, 285-Okemos-Jr.

TE-Dayton Keller-6-4, 245-Jackson Lumen Christi-Jr.

OL-Keegan Smith-6-4, 275-Jackson Lumen Christi-Soph.

RB-Michael Whitney-5-11, 205-Lansing Catholic-Jr.

QB-RB-DB-Drew Stout-6-2, 185-Carson City-Crystal-Jr.

LB-RB-Brayden Shaw-6-1, 215-Ithaca-Soph.

DE-Dominique Davidson-6-6, 220-Lansing Everett-Jr.

LB-RB-Konner Near-6-1, 205-St. Johns-Jr.
RB-DB-Heath Flower-5-10, 175-Olivet-Soph.

DT-Hunter Smith-6-2, 265-Breckenridge-Jr. 

QB-Drew Humm-6-3, 180-Alma-Jr.

TE-Gavin Cossou-6-6, 215-Greenville-Jr.

QB-Blake Gatfield-6-2, 190-DeWitt-Jr.
DB-Josh Kramer-6-0, 185-Lansing Catholic-Jr.
OL-Isaiah Schafer-6-3, 265-Pewamo-Westphalia-Jr.

RB-Exziar Edwards-5-9, 185-Jackson-Jr.

DT-OL-Aiden Train-6-4, 275-Central Montcalm-Soph. 

WR-Case Conley-6-6, 185-Williamston-Jr.
K-Alec Thelen-5-9, 170-Pewamo-Westphalia-Jr.

DB-Noah Smith-6-0, 175-Lansing Everett-Jr.
DB-Nick Thomas-5-11, 175-Jackson Lumen Christi-Jr.

DB-Bobby Willis-5-10, 165-Jackson Lumen Christi-Soph.

WR-S-Mike Munderloh-6-3, 195-St. Louis-Jr.

Quad Cities All-Region Team

The Quad Cities area (anchored by Midland, Bay City, Saginaw, Flint and the surrounding areas, including most of the Thumb) is historically one of the state of Michigan's most prolific regions when it comes to producing high-level Division I college football talent (and future NFL players). Carl Banks (Flint Beecher, MSU, NFL), Andre Rison (Flint Northwestern, MSU, NFL), Rick Leach (Flint Southwestern, U-M All-American QB, Major League Baseball), Todd Lyght (Flint Powers Catholic, Notre Dame, NFL), Terry McDaniel (Saginaw, Tennessee, NFL), Charles Rogers (Saginaw, MSU, NFL), LaMarr Woodley (Saginaw, U-M, NFL), Howard Mudd (Midland, Hillsdale, NFL), Bill Hewitt (Bay City Central, U-M, NFL, Pro Football Hall of Fame), Brad Van Pelt (Owosso, MSU, NFL), Paul Krause (Burton-Bendle, Iowa, NFL, Pro Football Hall of Fame) are just the tip of the iceberg of a long and storied list of gridders who got their start playing high school football in the Quad Cities Region. This season, the 2017 Quad Cities All-Region squad is loaded with Division I college football talent at every position. Here is the 2017 Quad Cities All-Region team --

The Quad Cities All-Region Team- 

WR-Charles Garrett-6-3, 185-Bridgeport- One of the state of Michigan's best all-around athletes. A D-I hoops recruit, Garrett played QB for Bridgeport, but I project him as a WR at the next level. Unbelievable athletic talent.
TE-Ben VanSumeren-6-3, 235-Essexville-Garber- U-M verbal commit, VanSumeren is an elite athlete. At the next level, he could play H-Back, LB or DE. Runs 4.7-4.6 range. I'd like to see him bulk up and play at 6-3, 255 as a rush DE or 6-3, 245 as an OLB.
OL-Evan Geyer-6-6, 265-Frankemuth- Interesting prospect. Basketball player, with good feet. Bulked up this year and looks to get bigger and heavier at the next level.
OL-Mike Pellizzari-6-4, 305-Flint Powers Catholic-Three-year starter at Flint area powerhouse. A guy I think is highly under-recruited.
OL-Kyle Allen-6-3, 270-Saginaw Nouvel Catholic
OL-Tyler Brooks-6-6, 290-Corunna
OL-John Hardy-6-5, 270-Bay City John Glenn- I love this guy. Outstanding two-way talent at either OT or DT. Reportedly runs a 4.7 40. Another under-recruited player, in my opinion. He's Big Ten level. I see him as a 6-5, 285-type guy with unusual quickness playing DE and DT moving around each and every game. Kind of reminds me of a kid who played his high school football not too far away from Bay City John Glenn at West Branch Ogemaw Heights and now starts in the NFL at DE for the Detroit Lions -- Anthony Zettel (Penn State, NFL).
WR-Ovauntay Vickers-6-2, 185-Carrollton
WR-Majestik Dudley-6-3, 200-Saginaw Heritage
QB-Josh Czarnota-6-2, 215-Fenton- Seriously, Big Ten, where are you on this kid. Runs a 4.5 40, has passed and rushed for thousands of yards each of his three years as a starter for Fenton. Dad played LB at U-M under Bo Schembechler. He seems ideal for a Northwestern or Indiana or a Purdue.
RB-Tariq Reid-6-0, 200-Davison- One of the top RBs in the Midwest. Again, where are you Big Ten???
       Jalen Hayes-6-0, 175-Carrollton- Rushed for over 2,000 yards this season.

PK-Josh Shaski-5-11, 165-Montrose

DE-Laquan Johnson-6-4, 235-Burton-Bendle- Outstanding speed and athleticism for a player his size. Played WR at times for Burton-Bendle. From same high school as Pro Football Hall-of-Famer Paul Krause (Iowa, Washington Redskins, Minnesota Vikings). Verbal to CMU.
DT-Bradley Novess-6-4, 310-Flushing
DT-Ty Perry-6-4, 305-Saginaw Swan Valley
DE-Zach Jacobs-6-3, 225-Frankenmuth- Played QB for Frankenmuth this season, but I see him playing H-back or DE at the next level. Terrific all-around player.
LB-Neven Simington-6-4, 225-Saginaw- A coach's son, Simington has outstanding speed and agility for a player his size. The sky is the limit for this young man. Has all the tools. CMU verbal.
LB-Justin McMurren-6-1, 230-Saginaw Heritage
LB-Gabe Ellis-6-3, 205-Davison
DB-Dequez Weathers-6-0, 185-Bay City Central- I've loved this kid since he was a junior. Has 4.5 speed and is an explosive RB or a hard-hitting DB. Highly under-recruited, in my opinion.
DB-Anthony Fordham-6-1, 185-Davison- One of Michigan's best DBs, yet you would never know it. Has great size and speed. A lockdown CB and outstanding kick returner. Big Ten?? C'mon... Purdue, Illinois?? Really? Where are you guys?
DB-Jace Parrish-6-1, 180-Grand Blanc
DB-DeMarcus Bush-6-0, 205-Burton-Atherton
       Jalen Smith-5-10, 170-Flint Carman-Ainsworth

P/K-Austin Welter-5-10, 170-Bay City Central

Top underclassmen (all are D-I prospects)- 

WR-Devell Washington-6-4, 195-Bay City Central-Soph.
DE-TE-Hunter Crenshaw-6-5, 225-Flint Powers Catholic-Jr.
OL-Evan Egan-6-5, 270-Durand-Soph.
QB-Brian Elder-6-5, 195-Bay City Central-Jr.
OL-William Racely-6-4, 265-Flushing-Jr.
OL-Jake Esckilsen-6-5, 305-Hemlock-Jr.
RB-Jalen Kirkland-5-10, 205-Lapeer-Jr.
OL-Jayson Tunstall-6-3, 265-New Lothrop-Jr.
DB-Amere Pickett-5-10, 190-Saginaw-Frosh.
WR-DB-Terryon Liddell-5-10, 170-Saginaw Swan Valley-Jr.
DE-TE-Travis Miracle-6-3, 240-Yale-Jr.
DB-Jaleil Warren-6-1, 175-Carrollton-Jr.
DE-Brett Beyer-6-4, 225-Bay City Central-Jr.
QB-Dustin Fletcher-6-3, 210-Flint Carman-Ainsworth-Soph.
LB-Emanuel Fletcher-6-2, 210-Flint Carman-Ainsworth-Frosh.
DE-Michael Fletcher-6-6, 245-Flint Carman-Ainsworth-Jr.
K-P-Evan Morris-6-5, 195-Ovid-Elsie-Jr.
DB-Jobe Long-5-11, 160-Bay City John Glenn-Soph.
DB-RB-Devante Bedford-6-1, 170-Montrose-Jr.

Grand Rapids/Muskegon Area All-Region Team

The Grand Rapids/Muskegon area is arguably, pound-for-pound, one of the richest, deepest and most talented regions for high school football in the Midwest, if not the nation. There are so many good players, coaches and teams in this football hotbed, it's incredible. I could have made three teams of D-I-level guys. A D-I head coach could only recruit this area and still have an outstanding class. Former Grand Rapids/Muskegon area standouts who went on to play in the NFL include David Harris (Grand Rapids Ottawa Hills, U-M, NFL), Jared Veldheer (Grand Rapids Forest Hills Northern, Hillsdale, NFL), Kavon Frazier (Grand Rapids Christian, CMU, NFL), Cameron Bradfield (Grand Rapids Creston, Grand Valley State, NFL), Earl Morrall (Muskegon, MSU, NFL), Todd Herremans (Ravenna, Saginaw Valley State, NFL), Mike Kadish (Grand Rapids Catholic Central, Notre Dame, NFL), Terry Barr (Grand Rapids Central, U-M, NFL), George Andrie (Grand Rapids Catholic Central, Marquette, NFL), Paul Grasmanis (Jenison, Notre Dame, NFL), Kirk Cousins (Holland Christian, MSU, NFL), Willie Snead (Holland Christian/Muskegon Heights, Ball State, NFL), Jay Riemersma (Zeeland, U-M, NFL), Dave Whitsell (Shelby, Indiana, NFL), Gary Hogeboom (Grand Rapids Northview, CMU, NFL), Ray Bentley (Hudsonville, CMU, NFL), Joe Staley (Rockford, CMU, NFL) and on and on and on... So much high-level talent has come out of this region it's incredible.

--Here is the 2017 Grand Rapids/Muskegon Area All-Region Team -- 

WR-Xavier Wade-6-2, 185-Holland West Ottawa-Has been unstoppable for two years now. Top-flight hoops player, as well. Is without a doubt one of Michigan's top WR prospects. Big Ten?? Get on this kid, pronto...
TE-Luke Buckman-6-6, 225-Holland
OL-Cody Carone-6-5, 320-Rockford-One of the best O-linemen in the state of Michigan. Rugged, physical and skilled, can play basically any offensive line position.
OL-Jake Achterhoff-6-6, 275-North Muskegon
OL-Chuckie Anthony-6-2, 295-Muskegon Mona Shores- One of the top two-way linemen in Michigan. Could play center or defensive tackle at the next level.
       Evan Gast-6-2, 295-Byron Center-One of Michigan's top centers. Also an All-State heavyweight wrestler. Excellent balance, leverage and footwork.
OL-Keontae Watson-6-5, 270-Muskegon Mona Shores
OL-Antwan Reed-6-7, 320-Muskegon-Reed is an overwhelming force for Muskegon. Size, length, power, he has it all.
WR-Bryce Clay-5-10, 190-Grand Rapids Forest Hills Central-Outstanding all-around athlete. Will play D-I lacrosse at U-M. Also has D-I college football skills as either WR or DB.
WR-Keyshawn Summerville-6-0, 170-Muskegon Mona Shores
QB-Ladarius Jefferson-6-2, 220-Muskegon-My No. 3-ranked player overall in Michigan. Arguably playing the best football out of anyone in the state at the moment. Verbal to Michigan State.
      Jason Whittaker-6-5, 205-Rockford- Verbal to Northwestern. Big body, strong arm, prototypical drop-back passer with huge upside.
RB-Thomas Griggs-5-11, 200-Wyoming Kelloggsville

PK-Eric Zeboor-6-2, 175-Rockford

DE-Jalen Mayfield-6-5, 255-Grand Rapids Catholic Central- One of the top players in the Midwest, Mayfield is my No. 2-ranked overall prospect in the state of Michigan. Also talented OT. Verbal to U-M.
DT-Eli Jackson-6-1, 300-Muskegon
      Seth Hoonhorst-6-2, 285-Hudsonville-Good speed for a DT, reportedly runs a 4.9 40.
DT-Dan VanOpstall-6-6, 265-Jenison-Good mobility for a big guy, VanOpstall could play OT at the next level. Runs a reported 4.9 40.
DE-Brandon Rake-6-7, 240-Whitehall- A bit unknown, but the best player out of Whitehall since Ryan VanBergen (U-M two-year starter at DE). Rake is a standout basketball player, as well. He's a sleeper-type player, but a Big Ten-level talent/prospect. Also talented OT recruit.
LB-Nolan Fugate-6-1, 210-Grand Rapids Catholic Central-Also top-flight RB, has set school rushing records at Catholic Central. Runs 4.5 40. Could play either RB or LB at next level.
LB-Job Mayhue-6-2, 220-East Kentwood- Incredible athlete, speed for a LB. Finished second in the state in 110-meter hurdles (14.20), was member of 400-meter relay which placed fifth, helped team to state title. Runs a 4.5 40. Sideline to sideline-type player.
LB-Brett Taylor-5-11, 220-Comstock Park- Runs a reported 4.4 40. Excellent baseball player, as well. Four-year starter for Comstock Park on the gridiron. Under-recruited, for sure, but could make some head coach or recruiter look very smart by signing this kid.
DB-JoJo Whitley-5-10, 175-Comstock Park
DB-John Todd-6-1, 175-Cedar Springs
       Willie Shanks-6-1, 185-Muskegon-Ball hawk of the highest caliber. Shanks had 10 interceptions, returning three for touchdowns this season, for the D-3 state champion Big Reds -- and my No. 1 overall team in Michigan. Big Ten talent, for sure.
DB-SuSu Davenport-6-1, 180-Wyoming Godwin Heights
DB-Anthony Ladd-5-11, 200-Grand Rapids Christian-Hard-hitting, physical DB who brings the pain from the secondary. Iowa State, Kansas, Rutgers, Maryland, Pitt and other similar programs need to offer this kid and the other DBs on this All-Region squad.

P-Liam Putz-6-3, 195-Grand Rapids West Catholic

-- The top underclassmen for the Grand Rapids/Muskegon area. There are so many big-time underclassmen in this region it's mind-boggling -the talent level is through the roof (all are D-I prospects) -- 

OL-Logan Brown-6-7, 290-East Kentwood-Jr.
OL-Anthony Bradford-6-6, 330-Muskegon-Jr.
DT-Mazi Smith-6-4, 305-East Kentwood-Jr.
DE-Adam Berghorst-6-6, 250-Zeeland East-Jr.
OL-Stuart Kettler-6-5, 265-East Grand Rapids-Jr.
DE-Billie Roberts-6-4, 235-Muskegon-Soph.
DE-OL-Luke Marsh-6-4, 250-Montague-Jr.
OT-Spencer Holstege-6-5, 270-Grand Rapids South Christian-Jr.
DE-TE-Marshawn Kneeland-6-4, 215-Wyoming Godwin Heights-Jr.
DT-Adam Lambert-6-5, 255-Grand Rapids NorthPointe Christian-Soph.
DT-Cole Stout-6-5, 260-Muskegon Mona Shores-Jr.
WR-DB-Cameron Martinez-5-11, 180-Muskegon Catholic Central-Soph.
RB-LB-Leroy Quinn-6-0, 220-Muskegon Oakridge-Soph.
WR-James Patrick-6-1, 170-Grand Rapids Christian-Jr.
OL-Tyler Sikkema-6-5, 270-Wayland-Jr.
P-PK-Luke Elzinga-6-4, 200-Grand Rapids Christian-Jr.
DT-Athey Dykhouse-6-4, 255-Zeeland East-Soph.
OL-Peyton Young-6-4, 310-Muskegon Oakridge-Jr.
OL-Marquis Cooper-6-2, 305-Muskegon-Jr.
WR-Damari Roberson-6-2, 190-Muskegon Mona Shores-Jr.
LB-Ali'Vonta Wallace-6-1, 235-Muskegon-Jr.
LB-TE-Boone Bonnema-6-3, 215-Zeeland East-Jr.
P-Dayton Rose-6-2, 215-Muskegon Orchard View-Soph.
LB-TE-Jacob Wahlberg-6-4, 220-Muskegon Mona Shores-Jr.
QB-Chase Brown-6-0, 200-Comstock Park-Jr.
WR-S-Tate Hallock-6-3, 185-Grand Rapids Forest Hills Central-Jr.
WR-Cody Tierney-5-10, 170-Grand Rapids Northview-Jr.
LB-DE-Daron Lewis-6-5, 210-Grand Rapids Catholic Central-Jr.
DE-Cade Klimczak-6-2, 220-Rockford-Jr.
RB-Bryce Stark-5-11, 175-Montague-Jr.
DB-Deamonte Clark-5-9, 165-Wyoming Godwin Heights-Jr.
DB-Koleman Wall-6-2, 180-Muskegon Oakridge-Jr.
RB-Sincere Dent-5-11, 215-Muskegon Mona Shores-Jr.
RB-WR-DB-Donovan Webb-5-11, 180-Holland-Jr.

Southwest Michigan All-Region Team Loaded With D-I Talent

The Southwest Michigan All-Region Team is absolutely loaded with top-flight Division I college football talent. This is an area of the state I think doesn't get enough publicity for its big-time high school football. Every year this region churns out state championship caliber teams and high-level D-I prospects. Big Ten schools such as Indiana, Purdue, Illinois, Northwestern, Minnesota, etc. should be recruiting and signing players from this area every season. Southwest Michigan is an untapped gold mine of football talent right under the noses of multiple struggling Big Ten programs. A smart coach or recruiter from these Big Ten programs and other D-I area schools would be well-rewarded taking a long look at these players below and many others in Southwest Michigan. Some former and current NFL players from the region include RB T. J. Duckett (Kalamazoo Loy-Norrix, MSU, NFL), DE Tony McGee (Battle Creek Central, Wyoming, NFL), OT Jack Conklin (Plainwell, MSU, NFL), WR Greg Jennings (Kalamazoo Central, WMU, NFL), DE Jason Babin (Paw Paw, WMU, NFL), RB Joique Bell (Benton Harbor, Wayne State, NFL), TE Pete Metzelaars (Portage Northern, Wabash College, NFL) and Adam Gase (Marshall, MSU, current Miami Dolphins head coach).

WR-Caleb Murphy-6-4, 215-Dowagiac- One of many high-level D-I "sleepers" in this region. Murphy is a big-bodied athlete with 4.5 speed. Being a defensive guy by heart (yes, I believe in the cliche of defense wins championships), I see him projecting to a 6-4, 230 LB or a 6-4, 245 rush DE, with 4.6-4.5 speed, considering the extra weight.
TE-Breckon Stewart-6-5, 215-Sturgis- A four-year starter at Sturgis. Incredible athlete. Brother Chance signed with Wisconsin out of high school as a highly-recruited QB.
OL-Ryan McCafferty-6-9, 290-Battle Creek Harper Creek- Crazy huge size, also plays basketball. Purdue, Indiana, Illinois, where are you on this guy? He also is a 4.0 GPA-type student.
OL-Cameron Wirtz-6-5, 285-Battle Creek Lakeview
OL-Kaleb Clous-6-3, 260-Richland Gull Lake
OL-Jeremy Hall-6-3, 315-Homer
OL-Tirrell Hausmanis-6-4, 260-Three Rivers- Maybe the biggest "sleeper" in this region and one of the least publicized big-time D-I college football recruits in the state of Michigan. I love this kid. Three-year starter for Three Rivers. Long arms, outstanding footwork, skilled pass blocker. Basketball standout. Also a D-I DE prospect, in my opinion.
WR-Brandon Anderson-5-10, 160-Cassopolis- Runs a reported 4.3 40. A slippery, explosive-type guy in the open field. Outstanding in classroom, as well, with a 3.9 GPA.
WR-Bryant Kieft-6-3, 205-Watervliet
QB-Jordan Sherman-6-4, 180-Homer
RB-Dawson Bartlett-6-2, 180-Battle Creek Harper Creek- I know he's been injured for most of the season, but this kid would still be my guy when healthy. Top two-way player. D-I coaches need to take notice.

DE-Ty Hill-6-2, 255-Stevensville-Lakeshore-Not many talk about Hill, but he's tough as nails and a physical, hard-hitting player for the Lancers.
DT-Tyden Ferris-6-4, 260-Delton-Kellogg-All-State wrestler. Verbal to CMU.
DT-Trevor Dilley-6-5, 255-St. Joseph
DE-Steven Laws-6-2, 235-Battle Creek Lakeview
LB-Jacob Huysken-6-1, 205-Schoolcraft- Another kid I love (I know, I'm in a loving mood). He'll be a two-time All-State performer. He has 4.6 speed and natural pass-rushing skills. He's a guy who will be 6-1, 225 at the next level with that uncanny, natural pass-rushing ability so many D-coordinators covet. Small school player, but big-time D-I ability.
LB-Kyle Dotson-6-2, 220-Portage Central
LB-Jordan Wilson-6-0, 205-Homer-I know he's a star RB, but I just see him as a guy who could play in space at the next level and be outstanding in pass defense. Fast, quick-twitch-type guy.
       Kyle Shrider-6-2, 215-Edwardsburg
DB-Damyon Wedge-5-10, 170-Allegan
DB-Sean Hopkins-6-2, 165-Benton Harbor
DB-Cam Gillette-5-10, 185-Battle Creek Lakeview
DB-Darius Pruitt-6-4, 205-Kalamazoo Central- I know I love a lot of these guys in the Southwest Region of Michigan, but this guy... C'mon, Big Ten?? He is so very good. From same school as former NFL standouts (WR Greg Jennings, TE-HB Duane Young, RB Jerome Harrison, OL Scott Rehberg and a Major League Baseball player you might have heard of -- Derek Jeter). Every school in the Big Ten should be looking at, if not offering, this kid. Plays for one of the Midwest's top basketball programs and has all of that hoops athleticism to go along with a natural football skill-set. He could be a 6-4, 215 WR or SS or a 6-4, 235 LB at the nex level.

-- Top underclassmen in Southwest Michigan (all are D-I prospects)- 

OL-Karson Barnhart-6-5, 285-Paw Paw-Jr.
QB-DB-Eric Wenzel-6-1, 185-Kalamazoo United-Jr.
RB-Eli Potts-6-1, 200-Portage Central-Jr.
DT-OL-Garrett Jones-6-4, 260-Berrien Springs-Soph.
DE-Payton Dustin-6-5, 250-Berrien Springs-Jr.
DB-Jacob Lyle-6-1, 165-Kalamzoo Central-Soph.
DB-RB-Bradley Dunn-6-0, 165-Saugatuck-Jr.
OL-DT-Josh Priebe-6-5, 265-Edwardsburg-Soph.
WR-Heath Baldwin-6-4, 180-Kalamazoo United-Jr.
OL-Jack Haverdink-6-4, 255-Portage Northern-Jr.- Son of former NFL OT Kevin Haverdink.
OL-Hayden VanderWeele-6-4, 245-Portage Northern-Jr.
DB-Tyrese Hunt-Thompson-5-11, 170-Cassopolis-Jr.-Also has a 3.7 GPA.
RB-LB-Darius Clayton-6-0, 195-Benton Harbor-Jr.
OL-Michael Sarabyn-6-6, 290-Dowagiac-Jr.
RB-Jalen Watkins-5-10, 185-Battle Creek Lakeview-Jr.
LB-TE-Gunnar Gavalis-6-4, 205-Plainwell-Jr.
DB-Art Herndon-5-11, 165-St. Joseph-Jr.
WR-Keondra Glass-6-2, 175-Battle Creek Central-Jr.
PK-Antonio Buhrfiend-5-9, 175-St. Joseph-Jr.

Northern Michigan/Upper Peninsula All-Region Team

The 2017 Northern Michigan/Upper Peninsula All-Region squad is off-the-charts good -- I'd go to battle on the football field with this line-up any day. From top to bottom and at every level, this team is loaded with Division I college football talent. Every player on this list can play D-I football at some level (high, mid, low). While this area of Michigan churns out multiple D-I recruits every season, it's also the place where some of the Great Lakes State's most legendary and accomplished NFL players/coaches first started competing in football. Future NFL and professional players/coaches from the Northern Michigan/Upper Peninsula Region include C Dave Manders (Kingsford, MSU, NFL, arguably the greatest center ever produced by the state of Michigan, first Dallas Cowboy lineman ever selected to the Pro Bowl, played in two Super Bowls), TE Mark Brammer (Traverse City, MSU, NFL), WR Jeff Janis (Tawas, Saginaw Valley State, NFL), DE Anthony Zettel (West Branch Ogemaw Heights, Penn State, NFL), OG Heartley "Hunk" Anderson (Calumet, Notre Dame, NFL, succeeded Knute Rockne as Notre Dame head coach and later coached the Chicago Bears), DT-OG Ray Bray (Vulcan, WMU, NFL, original member of the Chicago Bears' "Monsters of the Midway" NFL championship teams of the 1940s), OT Jake Fisher (Traverse City West, Oregon, NFL), LB Max Bullough (Traverse City St. Francis, MSU, NFL), DE Bob Jurasin (Bessemer, Northern Michigan, CFL, enshrined in Canadian Football Hall of Fame), RB-QB Gene Ronzani (Iron Mountain, Marquette, NFL, succeeded Curly Lambeau as Green Bay Packers head coach), OG Len St. Jean (Newberry, Northern Michigan, NFL-AFL), QB Steve Mariucci (Iron Mountain, Northern Michigan, NFL, former head coach of the Detroit Lions, San Francisco 49ers and the University of California) and E Chuck Fairbanks (Charlevoix, MSU, NFL, former head coach of the New England Patriots, University of Oklahoma and University of Colorado, widely credited with co-creating the 3-4 defense).

Northern Michigan/Upper Peninsula 2017 All-Region-

WR-Jake Witt-6-7, 240-Ontonagon- Truly one of Michigan's best all-around athletes. All-State basketball player, committed to Michigan Tech for hoops, but, man...Once in a lifetime athlete from the rugged western U.P. A special talent, who is a Big Ten-level football recruit, if he decided to take that route. Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, where are you on this guy? Take a look. U.P. Dream Team pick.
TE-Cooper Twardzik-6-4, 250-Calumet- A man among boys at times. Dominating DE as well as talented TE. From same small U.P. Keweenaw Peninsula hometown as Notre Dame and college football legend George Gipp of "Win one for the Gipper" fame. U.P. Dream Team selection.
OL-Ryan Hayes-6-7, 270-Traverse City West- One of the best LT prospects in the nation. Verbal to U-M.
OL-Sam Sherwin-6-5, 265-Traverse City Central
OL-Jacob Kochanny-6-4, 270-Cadillac
OL-Matt Stefanski-6-4, 305-Frankfort
OL-Austin Musser-6-6, 265-Harrison-Runs a reported 4.7 40. Could be DL at next level.
WR-Jake Lee-6-5, 180-Petoskey-Set school record for catches. Difficult match-up with size and length.
QB-Cade Peterson-6-5, 200-Maple City Glen Lake-My No. 2-ranked QB prospect in the state of Michigan. Verbal to D-II national powerhouse Grand Valley State (multiple national titles and multiple current NFL players).
FB-HB-Jayce Brockhagen-5-11, 245-Iron River West Iron County-This kid is one of my favorite sleepers statewide. He is "The Bus" (in honor of Detroit Mackenzie, Notre Dame and NFL Hall-of-Famer Jerome Bettis' famous nickname) of the Upper Peninsula. He's an old-school, throw-back-type player who punishes opposing defenders. I love players like that -- every team needs a guy like this in its line-up. U.P. Dream Team selection.
TB-Griffin Kelly-6-1, 185-Frankfort

K-Gabe Pickett-6-0, 190-Traverse City Central-Hit 42-yard FG and has blasted multiple KOs out of the end zone.

DE-Andrew Kraatz-6-6, 250-Standish-Sterling-Long, lanky D-end, with good mobility. Verbal to Army.
DT-Kyle Seeley-6-2, 290-Manistique-Played on an 0-9 team, but was so talented he still stood out. U.P. Dream Team selection.
DT-Devin Koscielniak-6-7, 325-Johannesburg-Lewiston-One of the largest players in the state of Michigan. Unblockable at times. Will be two-time All-Stater. A true giant of the north.
DE-Kamron Wheeler-6-3, 245-Oscoda-Reportedly runs a 4.8 40..
LB-Devon Mills-6-0, 220-Lincoln-Alcona
LB-Jacob Ager-6-1, 230-Boyne City-A human tackling machine.
LB-Ryan Lints-6-0, 225-Traverse City St. Francis- Four-year starter at perennial powerhouse northern Michigan program.
DB-Ethan Mileski-6-2, 190-Menominee-As good of a lockdown DB as there is in the Northern Michigan/Upper Peninsula area. U.P. Dream Team selection.
DB-Scout Wunder-5-11, 175-Escanaba-U.P. Dream Teamer.
DB-Darin Johnson-5-10, 180-Gladstone-U.P. Dream Team pick.
DB-Charlie May-6-2, 185-Gaylord

P-Joel Wilson-6-5, 205-Petoskey-Also talented QB. Outstanding all-around athlete.

At Large: WR-Jeff Rahilly-5-11, 180-Newberry (in case I needed to go to a three WR set)
At Large: DB-Matt Loney-6-3, 180-Frankfort (In case I needed to go nickel coverage)

-- Quick glance at a few of the top underclassmen in the Northern Michigan/Upper Peninsula Region- (all are D-I prospects)

OL-Bruin French-6-4, 295-Jr.-Clare
OL-Bryant Schram-6-3, 285-Jr.-Iron River West Iron County
LB-Odin Soffredine-6-1, 210-Jr.-Traverse City West
TE-Jack Sherwin-6-4, 230-Jr.-Traverse City Central
RB-DB-Montell Glover-5-11, 190-Jr.-Stephenson
WR-DB-Gabe Whitmore-6-2, 170-Soph.-Petoskey
RB-Slot-Phillip Jones-5-8, 165-Jr.-Reed City
WR-P-Ethan Martysz-6-0, 175-Jr.-Marquette
C-DT-Zac Cramer-6-3, 305-Jr.-Alpena
DT-Anthony Pelton-6-3, 240-Jr.-Reed City
WR-DB-Drew Peterson-6-2, 185-Jr.-Maple City Glen Lake
RB-Elijah Lewis-5-11, 165-Jr.-Pine River
QB-Tobin Schwannecke-6-3, 180-Jr.-Traverse City Central
LB-FB-HB-Hugh Brand-6-3, 235-Jr.-Harrison
OL-Bryce Neff-6-4, 270-Jr.-Gaylord