The 1987 Michigan State University football team finished 9-2-1 overall and 7-0-1 in the Big Ten. The Spartans were crowned Big Ten champions and defeated USC 20-17 in the Rose Bowl. To begin the season, MSU topped the Trojans 27-13. The Spartans finished the year ranked No. 8 in the nation. MSU's team was filled with players from the state of Michigan (Thirteen of the 22 starters were from the Great Lakes State). Here are the players from Michigan who started for the Spartans during the 1987 Rose Bowl-winning and Big Ten championship season.
Offense-
WR-Andre Rison-Flint Northwestern**
WR-Willie Bouyer-Detroit Chadsey
TE-Mike Sargent-Flint Powers Catholic
OT-David Houle-Plymouth Salem
OG-Vince Tata-Linden
C-Pat Shurmur-Dearborn Divine Child**
OG-Bob Kula-Birmingham Brother Rice
FB-Joseph Pugh-Grand Rapids Central
(also starting multiple games at FB was James Moore-Lansing Sexton)
Defense-
DE-Jim Szymanski-Sterling Heights Stevenson
DT-Mark Nichols-Birmingham Brother Rice**
LB-Tim Moore-St. Johns**
FS-Todd Krumm-West Bloomfield**
SS-John Miller-Farmington Hills Harrison**
PK-John Langeloh-Utica**
** All-Big Ten
Friday, April 19, 2013
Saturday, April 13, 2013
Top teams from the past and their state of Michigan influence
Every once and a while I'll profile one of Michigan's five Division I college football playing schools focusing on a top team and the influence players from the state of Michigan had on each squad. Today I'll look at the 1978 Big Ten co-champion University of Michigan team which finished 10-2 overall and ranked No. 5 in the nation. U-M was loaded with kids from the Great Lakes State. The Wolverines' losses on the season came againt intra-state rival and co-Big Ten champion Michigan State (also loaded with Michigan players -- I'll look at that team later) 24-15 and to USC in the Rose Bowl 17-10.
Out of U-M's 22 starters that season, 15 hailed from the state of Michigan. Here are the starting players from the state of Michigan on the 1978 Wolverine No. 5 ranked and co-Big Ten championship team.
Offense-
WR-Rodney Feaster-6-1, 182-So.-Flint Southwestern
WR-Ralph Clayton-6-3, 211-Jr.-Detroit Redford
(third WR was Alan Mitchell-6-1, 175-So.-Detroit Catholic Central)
TE-Gene Johnson-6-3, 231-Sr.-Flint Southwestern
QB-Rick Leach-6-1, 192-Sr.-Flint Southwestern * # (team MVP)
TB-Harlan Huckleby-6-1, 200-Sr.-Detroit Cass Tech
OG-Greg Bartnick-6-2, 240-Sr.-Detroit Cody
OT-Mike Leoni-6-3, 255-Jr.-Flint Powers Catholic
(also starting three games at right tackle was Bill Dufek-6-4, 265-Sr.-East Grand Rapids)
Defense-
DT-Chris Godfrey-6-4, 245-Jr.-Detroit DeLaSalle
DT-Curtis Greer-6-6, 250-Jr.-Detroit Cass Tech *
OLB-Jerry Meter-6-2, 205-Sr.-Bloomfield Hills Andover-C
ILB-Ron Simpkins-6-1, 230-Jr.-Detroit Western *
(starting four games at the other ILB spot was Mark DeSantis-6-3, 215-Sr.-Harper Woods Bishop Gallagher)
OLB-Tom Seaborn-6-3, 210-Sr.-Detroit Cass Tech
CB-Mike Jolly-6-3, 180-Jr.-Southgate Aquinas *
CB-Mark Braman-6-1, 195-Jr.-Midland
SS-Mike Harden-6-1, 180-Jr.-Detroit Central *
* All-Big Ten
# All-American
C- Captain
Out of U-M's 22 starters that season, 15 hailed from the state of Michigan. Here are the starting players from the state of Michigan on the 1978 Wolverine No. 5 ranked and co-Big Ten championship team.
Offense-
WR-Rodney Feaster-6-1, 182-So.-Flint Southwestern
WR-Ralph Clayton-6-3, 211-Jr.-Detroit Redford
(third WR was Alan Mitchell-6-1, 175-So.-Detroit Catholic Central)
TE-Gene Johnson-6-3, 231-Sr.-Flint Southwestern
QB-Rick Leach-6-1, 192-Sr.-Flint Southwestern * # (team MVP)
TB-Harlan Huckleby-6-1, 200-Sr.-Detroit Cass Tech
OG-Greg Bartnick-6-2, 240-Sr.-Detroit Cody
OT-Mike Leoni-6-3, 255-Jr.-Flint Powers Catholic
(also starting three games at right tackle was Bill Dufek-6-4, 265-Sr.-East Grand Rapids)
Defense-
DT-Chris Godfrey-6-4, 245-Jr.-Detroit DeLaSalle
DT-Curtis Greer-6-6, 250-Jr.-Detroit Cass Tech *
OLB-Jerry Meter-6-2, 205-Sr.-Bloomfield Hills Andover-C
ILB-Ron Simpkins-6-1, 230-Jr.-Detroit Western *
(starting four games at the other ILB spot was Mark DeSantis-6-3, 215-Sr.-Harper Woods Bishop Gallagher)
OLB-Tom Seaborn-6-3, 210-Sr.-Detroit Cass Tech
CB-Mike Jolly-6-3, 180-Jr.-Southgate Aquinas *
CB-Mark Braman-6-1, 195-Jr.-Midland
SS-Mike Harden-6-1, 180-Jr.-Detroit Central *
* All-Big Ten
# All-American
C- Captain
Friday, April 12, 2013
Pedersen/Herremans top 15 sleeper list for Michigan's class of 2014
Here are the top 15 sleepers for Michigan's class of 2014. I'm calling it the Pedersen/Herremans top 15 sleeper list in honor of current Wisconsin tight end Jacob Pedersen (Menominee) and current Philadelphia Eagle offensive lineman Todd Herremans (Ravenna, Saginaw Valley State).
Pedersen was a last second Badger signee who toiled away in obscruity in the Upper Peninsula despite winning a state championship and starring for one of the state's top football programs, while Herremans was a dominant offensive lineman from a Class C-sized West Michigan school. Why Herremans, who has started over 100 games in the NFL, didn't play Big Ten or MAC football for one of Michigan's five Division I programs is, and always will be, a mystery to me.
So many players like Pedersen, who was named first-team All-Big Ten last season, and Herremans fall through the cracks in the state of Michigan and end up suiting up for out-state colleges or Division II or III schools. It's a shame. The list of players unidentified or misevaluated throughout the years by our five football playing D-I colleges is shocking.
Off the top of my head, here are just a few players that went unnoticed their senior year of high school in Michigan and ended up playing out-state or at the Division II or III level before ending up on NFL rosters -- Cameron Bradfield (Grand Rapids Creston, Grand Valley State, current starting right tackle for Jacksonville Jaguars), Brandon Carr (Flint Carman-Ainsworth, Grand Valley State, current starting cornerback for Dallas Cowboys), Joquie Bell (Benton Harbor, Wayne State, current Detroit Lions running back), Chris Greenwood (Detroit King, Albion College, current Detroit Lions defensive back), Jared Veldheer (Grand Rapids Forest Hills Northern, Hillsdale, current starting left tackle for Oakland Raiders), Pete Metzelaars (Portage Central, Wabash (Ind.) College, three-time Pro Bowl tight end and four-time Super Bowl participant with Buffalo Bills), Tim Kearney (Kingsford, Northern Michigan, 10-year NFL career as starting linebacker mainly with St. Louis Cardinals, 1975-81), Dwight Smith (Detroit Central, Akron, eight-year NFL career, returned two interceptions for touchdowns in Super Bowl XXXVII as starting corner for Tampa Bay Buccaneers) and on and on...
I find it hard to believe there is another state with more elite players passed over by its Division I college football playing schools than Michigan. Let's hope it stops. Okay, I'm stepping off my soap box.
Last year's No. 1 sleeper Allegan defensive back-wide receiver Gary Jones signed with Central Michigan. Jones (6-foot-1, 185 pounds) is an incredible talent. Not only is he talented on the football field, he also is one of the state's top track and field performers. His top marks entering his senior season included times of 10.6 in the 100 and 21.6 in the 200, while also high jumping 6-6 and long jumping 23-0. If he decides to strictly concentrate on football at CMU, watch out, the Chippewas could have their next NFL first rounder.
Here are the top 15 sleepers for Michigan's class of 2014. Any Division I college football coach (hopefully those from the state of Michigan) would be smart to sign any one of the following players. All 15 can play at the Division I level (whether it be high, mid or low), but for some reason don't seem to be getting much publicity or buzz statewide and/or nationally.
1. Alex Neering-6-7, 240-DE-Essexville-Garber
2. Doug Freeman-5-11, 200-RB-DB-Buchanan
3. Jake Kasenski-6-5, 240-TE-Ludington
4. Marquian Johnson-6-4, 185-WR-Clawson
5. Amari Coleman-5-9, 175-WR-RB-DB-New Lothrup
6. Chris Greca-6-5, 305-DT-Grass Lake
7. Drew Dowding-6-2, 205-LB-Michigan Center
8. Devonte McGregor-6-4, 205-LB-RB-Taylor Truman
9. Archie Naert-6-3, 265-DT-Reese
10. Isaak Newhouse-6-0, 185-DB-Grand Haven
11. Derek Postma-6-4, 240-DE-Grand Rapids South Christian
12. Donnie Ernsberger-6-3, 220-LB-Battle Creek Lakeview
13. Asantay Brown-5-11, 170-WR-Muskegon Mona Shores
14. Devon Harris-5-11, 165-DB-Menominee
15. Kevin Weiler-6-3, 285-OG-Swartz Creek
Pedersen was a last second Badger signee who toiled away in obscruity in the Upper Peninsula despite winning a state championship and starring for one of the state's top football programs, while Herremans was a dominant offensive lineman from a Class C-sized West Michigan school. Why Herremans, who has started over 100 games in the NFL, didn't play Big Ten or MAC football for one of Michigan's five Division I programs is, and always will be, a mystery to me.
So many players like Pedersen, who was named first-team All-Big Ten last season, and Herremans fall through the cracks in the state of Michigan and end up suiting up for out-state colleges or Division II or III schools. It's a shame. The list of players unidentified or misevaluated throughout the years by our five football playing D-I colleges is shocking.
Off the top of my head, here are just a few players that went unnoticed their senior year of high school in Michigan and ended up playing out-state or at the Division II or III level before ending up on NFL rosters -- Cameron Bradfield (Grand Rapids Creston, Grand Valley State, current starting right tackle for Jacksonville Jaguars), Brandon Carr (Flint Carman-Ainsworth, Grand Valley State, current starting cornerback for Dallas Cowboys), Joquie Bell (Benton Harbor, Wayne State, current Detroit Lions running back), Chris Greenwood (Detroit King, Albion College, current Detroit Lions defensive back), Jared Veldheer (Grand Rapids Forest Hills Northern, Hillsdale, current starting left tackle for Oakland Raiders), Pete Metzelaars (Portage Central, Wabash (Ind.) College, three-time Pro Bowl tight end and four-time Super Bowl participant with Buffalo Bills), Tim Kearney (Kingsford, Northern Michigan, 10-year NFL career as starting linebacker mainly with St. Louis Cardinals, 1975-81), Dwight Smith (Detroit Central, Akron, eight-year NFL career, returned two interceptions for touchdowns in Super Bowl XXXVII as starting corner for Tampa Bay Buccaneers) and on and on...
I find it hard to believe there is another state with more elite players passed over by its Division I college football playing schools than Michigan. Let's hope it stops. Okay, I'm stepping off my soap box.
Last year's No. 1 sleeper Allegan defensive back-wide receiver Gary Jones signed with Central Michigan. Jones (6-foot-1, 185 pounds) is an incredible talent. Not only is he talented on the football field, he also is one of the state's top track and field performers. His top marks entering his senior season included times of 10.6 in the 100 and 21.6 in the 200, while also high jumping 6-6 and long jumping 23-0. If he decides to strictly concentrate on football at CMU, watch out, the Chippewas could have their next NFL first rounder.
Here are the top 15 sleepers for Michigan's class of 2014. Any Division I college football coach (hopefully those from the state of Michigan) would be smart to sign any one of the following players. All 15 can play at the Division I level (whether it be high, mid or low), but for some reason don't seem to be getting much publicity or buzz statewide and/or nationally.
1. Alex Neering-6-7, 240-DE-Essexville-Garber
2. Doug Freeman-5-11, 200-RB-DB-Buchanan
3. Jake Kasenski-6-5, 240-TE-Ludington
4. Marquian Johnson-6-4, 185-WR-Clawson
5. Amari Coleman-5-9, 175-WR-RB-DB-New Lothrup
6. Chris Greca-6-5, 305-DT-Grass Lake
7. Drew Dowding-6-2, 205-LB-Michigan Center
8. Devonte McGregor-6-4, 205-LB-RB-Taylor Truman
9. Archie Naert-6-3, 265-DT-Reese
10. Isaak Newhouse-6-0, 185-DB-Grand Haven
11. Derek Postma-6-4, 240-DE-Grand Rapids South Christian
12. Donnie Ernsberger-6-3, 220-LB-Battle Creek Lakeview
13. Asantay Brown-5-11, 170-WR-Muskegon Mona Shores
14. Devon Harris-5-11, 165-DB-Menominee
15. Kevin Weiler-6-3, 285-OG-Swartz Creek
Sunday, April 7, 2013
Top 25 overall prospects for Michigan's class of 2015
Here is Michigan's class of 2015 top 25 college football prospects. Like the class of 2014, the class of 2015 is absolutely loaded with talent -- there is elite skill at every position. From top to bottom, the class of 2015 is stacked with Division I high major recruits.
1. Josh Alabi-6-4, 245-DE-OT-Detroit Cass Tech-could be next Joseph Barksdale (LSU, NFL)
2. Brian Cole-6-3, 195-WR-Saginaw Heritage-best Hawk recruit since NFLer Stu Schwiegert
3. Mike Weber-5-10, 190-RB-Detroit Cass Tech-could be best RB in state regardless of class
4. Carter Masek-6-3, 215-LB-East Grand Rapids-next great one from perennial powerhouse
5. Kyonta Stallworth-6-4, 270-OT-St. Clair Shores South Lake-Pac 12, Big Ten interested
6. Romello Ross-5-11, 175-DB-RB-Detroit Western-1,302 yds, 8 TDs, 6 ints. as soph.
7. Anthony Herbert-6-5, 290-OT-DT-Lapeer East-some say Lapeer's next Jake Long
8. Jon Wassink-6-2, 180-QB-Grand Rapids South Christian-2,564 yds, 23 TDs for state champs
9. Jayru Campbell-6-3, 185-QB-Detroit Cass Tech-back-to-back state champ, big time talent
10. Qi'antae Ewing-6-3, 220-LB-Gr. Rapids Christian-absolute beast, soph starter on D-3 champ
11. Alex Malzone-6-3, 195-QB-Birmingham Brother Rice-led Warriors to D-2 state championship
12. Tyson Smith-5-11, 170-DB-Orchard Lake St. Mary's-great cover guy for D-3 state runner-up
13. Alex Grace-6-0, 190-RB-Saginaw Swan Valley-2,091 yds., 27 TDs last year, 4.4 speed
14. Chase Van Hoef-6-4, 270-OT-Grand Haven-mauler up front for Buccaneers
15. Cole Chewins-6-7, 210-TE-Clarkston-outstanding target, big upside for Wolves
16. Matt Skibinski-6-5, 245-OT-Livonia Churchill-starter at LT for Chargers as soph
17. Travis Russell-6-1, 170-QB-Gr. Rapids West Catholic-2,143 yds., 20 TDs for D-5 runner-up
18. Dakota Scholten-6-4, 235-LB-DE-TE-White Cloud-all around talent from small school
19. Rudy Hayes-6-3, 225-QB-Warren Michigan Collegiate-could play multiple positions
20. Logan Slaughter-6-5, 240-OT-DT-Mendon-best ever D-I recruit at small school powerhouse
21. Malik Swain-6-2, 280-DT-Grand Rapids Kenowa Hills-big time run-plugger in trenches
22. Marcus Bowers-6-0, 215-LB-Fraser-makes plays all over field, Det. News All-Metro East pick
23. John Kelly-5-10, 175-DB-WR-Oak Park-playmaker on both sides of line for Knights
24. Clyde Pryor-6-4, 265-OT-Kalamazoo Central-big frame, good feet, equal Div. I recruit
25. A'vonte Bell-6-1, 215-LB-Lansing Sexton-speed and size make for great D-I combo
Next best -
26. Tyriq Thompson-6-1, 210-S-LB-Detroit King-big time hitter, strong tackler
27. Nick Krumm-5-10, 170-DB-Walled Lake Central-outstanding instincts, ball skills
28. Mitchell Quakkelaar-6-4, 240-DE-Gr. Rapids South Christian-starter as soph for D-4 champs
29. Josh Dabney-6-2, 260-DT-Orchard Lake St. Mary's-force up front for D-3 runner-up
30. Patrick Harbin-6-1, 190-DB-Detroit Loyola-hard-hitting safety with good size, speed
31. Ray Buford-6-1, 175-WR-Southfield-smooth receiver, U-M interest
32. Tristin Wiegers-5-10, 170-WR-Detroit Country Day-good hands, precise route runner
33. Keith Jones-6-1, 240-DE-Detroit Cass Tech-big time motor, returning starter for D-1 champs
34. Nate Couturier-5-10, 155-WR-RB-DB-Allendale-Grand Rapids Press Dream Teamer as soph
35. Blake Bockheim-6-5, 220-TE-Gr. Rapids Northview-Big Ten frame, another top GR prospect
36. Tyrone Miller-6-3, 180-DB-Saline-tall, lanky cover guy, smothers receivers
37. Jake Johnson-6-2, 175-QB-DeWitt-pinpoint passer, another top Div. I QB recruit for 2015
38. Shahid Bellamy-6-3, 265-DT-Oak Park-has size and mobility Big Ten schools crave
39. David Moorman-6-5, 275-OT-Northville-Big, athletic technician in trenches for Mustangs
40. Keshawn Gilmore-6-2, 190-WR-Detroit Cass Tech-should have breakout year as junior
41. Nick Marosi-6-2, 195-WR-Grand Rapids Catholic Central-Good size, hands
42. Raumello Cooper-5-9, 165-DB-Flint Beecher-strong, quick cover skills as corner
43. Brandon Herzberg-6-2, 255-DT-OG-Brooklyn Columbia Central-hard-nosed, intense player
44. Grant Perry-5-11, 175-WR-DB-Birmingham Brother Rice-all-around player, quick feet
45. Ryan Roberts-6-7, 230-TE-Northville-Another Big Ten-sized TE, also top hoops player
46. Dekurtis Murphy-6-5, 305-OT-DT-St. Joseph Lake Michigan Catholic-D-I schools interested
47. Darryl Clemons-6-1, 205-LB-Detroit Loyola-returning starter for D-7 state runner-up
48. Trevon Avery-5-9, 170-DB-Grand Blanc-Cat-quick, natural talent, also skilled QB
1. Josh Alabi-6-4, 245-DE-OT-Detroit Cass Tech-could be next Joseph Barksdale (LSU, NFL)
2. Brian Cole-6-3, 195-WR-Saginaw Heritage-best Hawk recruit since NFLer Stu Schwiegert
3. Mike Weber-5-10, 190-RB-Detroit Cass Tech-could be best RB in state regardless of class
4. Carter Masek-6-3, 215-LB-East Grand Rapids-next great one from perennial powerhouse
5. Kyonta Stallworth-6-4, 270-OT-St. Clair Shores South Lake-Pac 12, Big Ten interested
6. Romello Ross-5-11, 175-DB-RB-Detroit Western-1,302 yds, 8 TDs, 6 ints. as soph.
7. Anthony Herbert-6-5, 290-OT-DT-Lapeer East-some say Lapeer's next Jake Long
8. Jon Wassink-6-2, 180-QB-Grand Rapids South Christian-2,564 yds, 23 TDs for state champs
9. Jayru Campbell-6-3, 185-QB-Detroit Cass Tech-back-to-back state champ, big time talent
10. Qi'antae Ewing-6-3, 220-LB-Gr. Rapids Christian-absolute beast, soph starter on D-3 champ
11. Alex Malzone-6-3, 195-QB-Birmingham Brother Rice-led Warriors to D-2 state championship
12. Tyson Smith-5-11, 170-DB-Orchard Lake St. Mary's-great cover guy for D-3 state runner-up
13. Alex Grace-6-0, 190-RB-Saginaw Swan Valley-2,091 yds., 27 TDs last year, 4.4 speed
14. Chase Van Hoef-6-4, 270-OT-Grand Haven-mauler up front for Buccaneers
15. Cole Chewins-6-7, 210-TE-Clarkston-outstanding target, big upside for Wolves
16. Matt Skibinski-6-5, 245-OT-Livonia Churchill-starter at LT for Chargers as soph
17. Travis Russell-6-1, 170-QB-Gr. Rapids West Catholic-2,143 yds., 20 TDs for D-5 runner-up
18. Dakota Scholten-6-4, 235-LB-DE-TE-White Cloud-all around talent from small school
19. Rudy Hayes-6-3, 225-QB-Warren Michigan Collegiate-could play multiple positions
20. Logan Slaughter-6-5, 240-OT-DT-Mendon-best ever D-I recruit at small school powerhouse
21. Malik Swain-6-2, 280-DT-Grand Rapids Kenowa Hills-big time run-plugger in trenches
22. Marcus Bowers-6-0, 215-LB-Fraser-makes plays all over field, Det. News All-Metro East pick
23. John Kelly-5-10, 175-DB-WR-Oak Park-playmaker on both sides of line for Knights
24. Clyde Pryor-6-4, 265-OT-Kalamazoo Central-big frame, good feet, equal Div. I recruit
25. A'vonte Bell-6-1, 215-LB-Lansing Sexton-speed and size make for great D-I combo
Next best -
26. Tyriq Thompson-6-1, 210-S-LB-Detroit King-big time hitter, strong tackler
27. Nick Krumm-5-10, 170-DB-Walled Lake Central-outstanding instincts, ball skills
28. Mitchell Quakkelaar-6-4, 240-DE-Gr. Rapids South Christian-starter as soph for D-4 champs
29. Josh Dabney-6-2, 260-DT-Orchard Lake St. Mary's-force up front for D-3 runner-up
30. Patrick Harbin-6-1, 190-DB-Detroit Loyola-hard-hitting safety with good size, speed
31. Ray Buford-6-1, 175-WR-Southfield-smooth receiver, U-M interest
32. Tristin Wiegers-5-10, 170-WR-Detroit Country Day-good hands, precise route runner
33. Keith Jones-6-1, 240-DE-Detroit Cass Tech-big time motor, returning starter for D-1 champs
34. Nate Couturier-5-10, 155-WR-RB-DB-Allendale-Grand Rapids Press Dream Teamer as soph
35. Blake Bockheim-6-5, 220-TE-Gr. Rapids Northview-Big Ten frame, another top GR prospect
36. Tyrone Miller-6-3, 180-DB-Saline-tall, lanky cover guy, smothers receivers
37. Jake Johnson-6-2, 175-QB-DeWitt-pinpoint passer, another top Div. I QB recruit for 2015
38. Shahid Bellamy-6-3, 265-DT-Oak Park-has size and mobility Big Ten schools crave
39. David Moorman-6-5, 275-OT-Northville-Big, athletic technician in trenches for Mustangs
40. Keshawn Gilmore-6-2, 190-WR-Detroit Cass Tech-should have breakout year as junior
41. Nick Marosi-6-2, 195-WR-Grand Rapids Catholic Central-Good size, hands
42. Raumello Cooper-5-9, 165-DB-Flint Beecher-strong, quick cover skills as corner
43. Brandon Herzberg-6-2, 255-DT-OG-Brooklyn Columbia Central-hard-nosed, intense player
44. Grant Perry-5-11, 175-WR-DB-Birmingham Brother Rice-all-around player, quick feet
45. Ryan Roberts-6-7, 230-TE-Northville-Another Big Ten-sized TE, also top hoops player
46. Dekurtis Murphy-6-5, 305-OT-DT-St. Joseph Lake Michigan Catholic-D-I schools interested
47. Darryl Clemons-6-1, 205-LB-Detroit Loyola-returning starter for D-7 state runner-up
48. Trevon Avery-5-9, 170-DB-Grand Blanc-Cat-quick, natural talent, also skilled QB
Top 25 overall prospects for Michigan's class of 2014 (Updated)
With all the position rankings completed, here is my updated overall top 25 list for Michigan's class of 2014.
1. Malik McDowell-6-7, 290-DE-Detroit Loyola
2. Drake Harris-6-4, 185-WR-Grand Rapids Christian-verbal to Michigan
3. Jalen Watts-Jackson-5-11, 175-DB-Orchard Lake St. Marys-verbal to Michigan State
4. Chance Stewart-6-5, 215-QB-Sturgis-verbal to WMU (de-committed from Wisconsin)
5. Damon Webb-5-11, 185-DB-Detroit Cass Tech-verbal to Ohio State
6. Jordan Van Dort-6-5, 295-DT-Zeeland West-verbal to WMU
7. William White-6-2, 220-LB-Detroit Cass Tech-verbal to Toledo (despite Big Ten offers/interest)
8. Alec Stevens-6-4, 275-OL-West Branch Ogemaw Heights
9. Lorenzo Collins-5-10, 200-RB-Farmington Hills Harrison
10. Austin Labus-6-6, 285-OL-Portage Northern-verbal to Bowling Green State
11. Lawrence Marshall-6-4, 225-DE-Southfield-verbal to Michigan
12. Mitch Vonzittwitz-6-4, 240-TE-Utica
13. Tommy Doles-6-5, 250-OT-Grand Rapids Christian-verbal to Northwestern
14. Travis Smith-6-2, 200-QB-Ithaca-verbal to Toledo
15. Michael Tweh-5-11, 205-RB-Mount Pleasant
16. Paris Bennett-6-2, 215-LB-U-D Jesuit-verbal to Syracuse
17. Alex Neering-6-7, 240-DE-Essexville-Garber-verbal to CMU
18. Nick Matich-6-4, 260-OL-Clarkston-verbal to WMU
19. Kenny Finley-6-3, 265-DT-Muskegon-verbal to WMU
20. Chris Hendricks-6-4, 275-DT-Fruitport
21. Doug Freeman-5-11, 200-DB-Buchanan
22. Moe Ways-6-3, 185-WR-Detroit Country Day-verbal to Michigan
23. Jake Kasenski-6-5, 240-TE-Ludington
24. Connor Hayes-6-4, 270-OL-Traverse City West-verbal to Pittsburgh
25. Carl Fuller-6-3, 215-LB-Detroit King
1. Malik McDowell-6-7, 290-DE-Detroit Loyola
2. Drake Harris-6-4, 185-WR-Grand Rapids Christian-verbal to Michigan
3. Jalen Watts-Jackson-5-11, 175-DB-Orchard Lake St. Marys-verbal to Michigan State
4. Chance Stewart-6-5, 215-QB-Sturgis-verbal to WMU (de-committed from Wisconsin)
5. Damon Webb-5-11, 185-DB-Detroit Cass Tech-verbal to Ohio State
6. Jordan Van Dort-6-5, 295-DT-Zeeland West-verbal to WMU
7. William White-6-2, 220-LB-Detroit Cass Tech-verbal to Toledo (despite Big Ten offers/interest)
8. Alec Stevens-6-4, 275-OL-West Branch Ogemaw Heights
9. Lorenzo Collins-5-10, 200-RB-Farmington Hills Harrison
10. Austin Labus-6-6, 285-OL-Portage Northern-verbal to Bowling Green State
11. Lawrence Marshall-6-4, 225-DE-Southfield-verbal to Michigan
12. Mitch Vonzittwitz-6-4, 240-TE-Utica
13. Tommy Doles-6-5, 250-OT-Grand Rapids Christian-verbal to Northwestern
14. Travis Smith-6-2, 200-QB-Ithaca-verbal to Toledo
15. Michael Tweh-5-11, 205-RB-Mount Pleasant
16. Paris Bennett-6-2, 215-LB-U-D Jesuit-verbal to Syracuse
17. Alex Neering-6-7, 240-DE-Essexville-Garber-verbal to CMU
18. Nick Matich-6-4, 260-OL-Clarkston-verbal to WMU
19. Kenny Finley-6-3, 265-DT-Muskegon-verbal to WMU
20. Chris Hendricks-6-4, 275-DT-Fruitport
21. Doug Freeman-5-11, 200-DB-Buchanan
22. Moe Ways-6-3, 185-WR-Detroit Country Day-verbal to Michigan
23. Jake Kasenski-6-5, 240-TE-Ludington
24. Connor Hayes-6-4, 270-OL-Traverse City West-verbal to Pittsburgh
25. Carl Fuller-6-3, 215-LB-Detroit King
Michigan's Greatest Pro Football Players
Here is a short capsule of one of Michigan's 50 greatest pro football players.
From time to time I'll highlight a former Michigander who grew up in this state
and/or played high school football here before going on to star at the
professional level. Players from high schools throughout the Upper and Lower
Peninsulas have gone on to receive Hall of Fame enshrinement, earn All-Pro
accolades and start in Super Bowls during their distinguished professional
football careers.
Here is a small write up for Gary Ballman from my book "Michigan's All-Time Top 50 Pro Football Players." Ballman, one of the best players ever from the state of Michigan, could do it all on the gridiron.
GARY BALLMAN
Despite being an eighth round pick in the 1962 NFL draft, East Detroit High School graduate Gary Ballman would go on to become one of the best receivers and kick returners of his generation. Coming out of Michigan State University as the 104th pick in the draft, Ballman would play 12 years in the NFL for four different teams.
Originally drafted by Pittsburgh, Ballman played five seasons for the Steelers from 1962 through 1966. He then suited up for the Philadelphia Eagles from 1967 through 1972, before splitting his final professional season with the New York Giants and Minnesota Vikings in 1973. In total, Ballman played in 131 NFL games.
Here is a small write up for Gary Ballman from my book "Michigan's All-Time Top 50 Pro Football Players." Ballman, one of the best players ever from the state of Michigan, could do it all on the gridiron.
GARY BALLMAN
Despite being an eighth round pick in the 1962 NFL draft, East Detroit High School graduate Gary Ballman would go on to become one of the best receivers and kick returners of his generation. Coming out of Michigan State University as the 104th pick in the draft, Ballman would play 12 years in the NFL for four different teams.
Originally drafted by Pittsburgh, Ballman played five seasons for the Steelers from 1962 through 1966. He then suited up for the Philadelphia Eagles from 1967 through 1972, before splitting his final professional season with the New York Giants and Minnesota Vikings in 1973. In total, Ballman played in 131 NFL games.
A two-time Pro Bowl selection in 1964 and 1965, Ballman
was named first team All-Pro by the Sporting News in 1964 after catching a
career-best 47 passes for 935 yards and seven touchdowns. He posted a 19.9
yards per reception average which ranked second in the league. His 935
receiving yards was fourth in the NFL. In total, his 1,364 all-purpose yards
was seventh in the league during the 1964 year. In 1965, he caught 40 passes
for 859 yards and five touchdowns. His reception yardage was ninth in the
league, while his 21.5 average yards per catch ranked third in the NFL and his
1,055 all-purpose yards ninth.
For his career, Ballman (6-foot-1, 215 pounds) finished
with 323 catches for 5,366 yards and 37 touchdowns. A deep threat, Ballman had
receptions of 87, 80 and 79 yards during his career. In 1970, while playing for
the Eagles, he caught 47 passes for 601 yards and three TDs. His 47 receptions
were 10th best in the NFL.
While a dangerous receiver, Ballman was just as talented
as a return specialist. His 93-yard kickoff return for a touchdown in 1963 is
tied for seventh longest in Steelers’ history. With 64 total returns for 1,711
yards, he is among Pittsburgh’s career leaders, while his 26.7 yards per kick
return is second best in the Steelers’ record book. In 1963, he had a
career-best 22 kicks returned for 698 yards, which ranked sixth in the league, one touchdown and a long run of 93 yards. His
31.7 yards returned per kick average that season was second in the NFL and is
17th best all-time in league history.
With 66 career kickoff returns for 1,754 yards and one
TD, Ballman’s 26.6 yards per kickoff return average over the course of his
playing days, is 15th in NFL history.
Also a productive runner when called upon, Ballman rushed
for 202 career yards on 41 attempts for an average of 4.9 yards per carry with
four touchdowns. In total, Ballman scored 42 career touchdowns for 252 points. A
triple threat kind of player, Ballman was able to hit pay dirt and score TDs
via pass reception, rushing attempt and kickoff return throughout his career.
An all around athlete, Ballman turned down a contract to
pitch in the Major Leagues before being drafted by the Steelers. At Michigan
State, Ballman played alongside fellow Michigan All-Time Top 50 gridders
offensive lineman Ed Budde, center Dave Manders and tight end Fred Arbanas. Also
a Spartan teammate during Ballman’s years at MSU was Pennsylvania native and
future Hall-of Fame cornerback Herb Adderley.
Tuesday, April 2, 2013
Top 10 kicker prospects for Michigan's class of 2014
Each and every season Michigan produces multiple Division I college football placekickers and punters. This year the Great Lakes State has numerous returning All-State kickers. Here are the top 10 placekickers and punters for Michigan's class of 2014.
1. Kyle Bambard-5-9, 175-Walled Lake Western-Big Ten, D-I high major talent, PK
2. Jacob Howe-6-2, 250-Grand Rapids Forest Hills Northern-state's top P, also No. 10 DT
3. Jackson Maxwell-5-10, 170-Swartz Creek-Flint Journal Dream Team, 48-yd. FG, 34-37 PAT
4. Gabe Swanson-6-1, 220-Kingsford-U.P. Dream Team placekicker as junior
5. Spencer Howell-5-9, 165-Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes-AP Div. 7-8 All-State PK
6. Tommy Sanchez-5-10, 165-Detroit Westside Christian-AP Div. 7-8 All-State punter last year
7. Ryan Maguire-5-11, 185-Grand Haven-Muskegon Chronicle Dream Team placekicker
8. Corey Robinett-6-0, 170-Grass Lake-Jackson Citizen-Patriot Dream Team punter as Jr.
9. Connor Storms-5-11, 170-Flint Carman-Ainsworth-Flint Journal Dream Team punter
10. Mickey Losey-5-10, 180-Portage Central-Kalamazoo Gazette All-Area punter, 37 yd. ave.
Other top prospects-Jason Alessi-6-0, 170-Birmingham Brother Rice (also one of state's best DBs), Kyle Haan-6-2, 185-Grand Rapids South Christian (booming kicks helped lead Sailors to D-4 state title last year), Andrew Click-6-0, 205-Portland (averaged 37 yards per punt for defending D-5 state champs).
1. Kyle Bambard-5-9, 175-Walled Lake Western-Big Ten, D-I high major talent, PK
2. Jacob Howe-6-2, 250-Grand Rapids Forest Hills Northern-state's top P, also No. 10 DT
3. Jackson Maxwell-5-10, 170-Swartz Creek-Flint Journal Dream Team, 48-yd. FG, 34-37 PAT
4. Gabe Swanson-6-1, 220-Kingsford-U.P. Dream Team placekicker as junior
5. Spencer Howell-5-9, 165-Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes-AP Div. 7-8 All-State PK
6. Tommy Sanchez-5-10, 165-Detroit Westside Christian-AP Div. 7-8 All-State punter last year
7. Ryan Maguire-5-11, 185-Grand Haven-Muskegon Chronicle Dream Team placekicker
8. Corey Robinett-6-0, 170-Grass Lake-Jackson Citizen-Patriot Dream Team punter as Jr.
9. Connor Storms-5-11, 170-Flint Carman-Ainsworth-Flint Journal Dream Team punter
10. Mickey Losey-5-10, 180-Portage Central-Kalamazoo Gazette All-Area punter, 37 yd. ave.
Other top prospects-Jason Alessi-6-0, 170-Birmingham Brother Rice (also one of state's best DBs), Kyle Haan-6-2, 185-Grand Rapids South Christian (booming kicks helped lead Sailors to D-4 state title last year), Andrew Click-6-0, 205-Portland (averaged 37 yards per punt for defending D-5 state champs).
Monday, April 1, 2013
Top 10 defensive back prospects for class of 2014
From Hall of Fame safety Paul Krause (Burton-Bendle) to perennial All-Pro shutdown corner Terry McDaniel (4-time selection from Saginaw, longtime Oakland Raider, 1988-1997, and along with Krause, one of "Michigan's All-Time Top 50 Pro Football Players") to current NFL standout Brandon Carr (Flint Carman-Ainsworth), Michigan has traditionally produced top-flight talent in the defensive secondary. This year's class of defensive backs is no different as every player on the top 10 list below (and many in the "other top prospects" list) is a Division I college football recruit. Here are Michigan's class of 2014 top 10 defensive back prospects.
1. Jalen Watts-Jackson-5-11, 175-Orchard Lake St. Mary's-one of state's best, pure talent
2. Damon Webb-5-11, 185-Detroit Cass Tech-prototypical lockdown CB, verbal to Ohio State
3. Doug Freeman-5-11, 200-Buchanan-unbelievable talent from small school, big-time sleeper
4. Tim Cason-6-0, 180-Clarkston-multiple Big Ten teams interested in hard-hitting safety
5. Byron Bullough-6-1, 205-Traverse City St. Francis-outstanding athlete, verbal to Michigan St.
6. Jalen Embry-5-11, 175-Detroit King-best King DB since current Detroit Lion Chris Greenwood
7. Deshaun Thrower-6-1, 195-Muskegon-best all around player on defending D-2 state runner-up
8. Mustafa Abdur-Rahman-5-11, 175-Macomb Dakota-six ints. last year, one returned for TD
9. Isaak Newhouse-6-0, 190-Grand Haven-Muskegon Chronicle Dream Team pick last year
10. Darrell McEntire-6-0, 170-Detroit Douglass-six ints. last year, two returned for TDs
Other top prospects-Dwayne Barfield-6-2, 180-Grand Rapids Christian, Angelo Prouix-6-0, 175-Warren Mott, Malik Fisher-6-2, 170-Grand Blanc, Chauncey Bridges-5-10, 170-North Farmington, Ross Williams-5-10, 165-Birmingham Groves, Carteris Carter-5-11, 190-Southfield, David Basirico-6-1, 180-Macomb Dakota (verbal to CMU), Alex Lewandoski-5-10, 180-Muskegon Catholic Central, Devon Harris-5-11, 165-Menominee (U.P. Dream Team, AP Div. 7-8 All-State pick a year ago), Sam Badalamenti-5-10, 185-Warren DeLaSalle (Det. News first team All-Metro East), Robert Kanitz-6-1, 185-Milan, Cody Peyok-5-10, 180-Reese (Bay City Times Dream Team, AP Div. 5-6 All-State), Dillon Dixon-5-11, 165-U-D Jesuit, Phillip Parham-5-9, 165-Detroit Cass Tech, Jason Alessi-6-0, 175-Birmingham Brother Rice, Chris Carter-5-11, 185-Birmingham Brother Rice, Eli Kraft-5-11, 175-Harbor Beach, Curtis Brunson-5-11, 175-Farmington (verbal to Ohio), Jevonte Alexander-5-9, 170-Flint Carman-Ainsworth, Trent Grimes-6-1, 200-Flint Powers Catholic (verbal to CMU).
1. Jalen Watts-Jackson-5-11, 175-Orchard Lake St. Mary's-one of state's best, pure talent
2. Damon Webb-5-11, 185-Detroit Cass Tech-prototypical lockdown CB, verbal to Ohio State
3. Doug Freeman-5-11, 200-Buchanan-unbelievable talent from small school, big-time sleeper
4. Tim Cason-6-0, 180-Clarkston-multiple Big Ten teams interested in hard-hitting safety
5. Byron Bullough-6-1, 205-Traverse City St. Francis-outstanding athlete, verbal to Michigan St.
6. Jalen Embry-5-11, 175-Detroit King-best King DB since current Detroit Lion Chris Greenwood
7. Deshaun Thrower-6-1, 195-Muskegon-best all around player on defending D-2 state runner-up
8. Mustafa Abdur-Rahman-5-11, 175-Macomb Dakota-six ints. last year, one returned for TD
9. Isaak Newhouse-6-0, 190-Grand Haven-Muskegon Chronicle Dream Team pick last year
10. Darrell McEntire-6-0, 170-Detroit Douglass-six ints. last year, two returned for TDs
Other top prospects-Dwayne Barfield-6-2, 180-Grand Rapids Christian, Angelo Prouix-6-0, 175-Warren Mott, Malik Fisher-6-2, 170-Grand Blanc, Chauncey Bridges-5-10, 170-North Farmington, Ross Williams-5-10, 165-Birmingham Groves, Carteris Carter-5-11, 190-Southfield, David Basirico-6-1, 180-Macomb Dakota (verbal to CMU), Alex Lewandoski-5-10, 180-Muskegon Catholic Central, Devon Harris-5-11, 165-Menominee (U.P. Dream Team, AP Div. 7-8 All-State pick a year ago), Sam Badalamenti-5-10, 185-Warren DeLaSalle (Det. News first team All-Metro East), Robert Kanitz-6-1, 185-Milan, Cody Peyok-5-10, 180-Reese (Bay City Times Dream Team, AP Div. 5-6 All-State), Dillon Dixon-5-11, 165-U-D Jesuit, Phillip Parham-5-9, 165-Detroit Cass Tech, Jason Alessi-6-0, 175-Birmingham Brother Rice, Chris Carter-5-11, 185-Birmingham Brother Rice, Eli Kraft-5-11, 175-Harbor Beach, Curtis Brunson-5-11, 175-Farmington (verbal to Ohio), Jevonte Alexander-5-9, 170-Flint Carman-Ainsworth, Trent Grimes-6-1, 200-Flint Powers Catholic (verbal to CMU).
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)