Michigan's Top 30 D-I Level Sleepers for the Class of 2019 -- OL and DL

With the 2017 Michigan high school football season complete, it's time to shift my focus to the 2018 campaign and some of the top players in the class of 2019. For this blog installment, I'm not going to list the most highly-recruited players at each position, but, in contrast, I'll shine the spotlight on deserving high-level Division I college football prospects I consider "sleepers" for the class of 2019. These current juniors are some of the best high school football players in the state of Michigan, but, for some reason, aren't receiving the buzz or publicity I believe they deserve. A smart and proactive D-I head coach or recruiter would be wise to get in contact with the following players before the rest of the country finds out about their talents on the gridiron. Here are my early D-I "30 Sleepers" for Michigan's class of 2019 --

Michigan's class of 2019 "30 Sleepers" (all are D-I prospects) -- 

OL- 

Jack Haverdink-6-4, 255-OT-Portage Northern- The upside for this kid is so high. I feel he could play any position on the O-line at the next level. Haverdink was practically born to play offensive line -- it's in his genes. Haverdink's father, Kevin (Hamilton, WMU) played in the NFL for three seasons as an offensive tackle for the New Orleans Saints in the late 1980s-early 1990s. This kid is Big Ten-level all the way.

Hayden VanderWeele-6-4, 245-OT-Portage Northern- In one of the best stories for the class of 2019 in Michigan, VanderWeele, like his teammate Jack Haverdink, has a father who played D-I college football as an offensive tackle. In a "what a small world it is" moment, VanderWeele's dad Gary also played at WMU and was the right tackle for the Broncos, while Kevin Haverdink was the left tackle. Now, almost 30 years later, the former college roommates' sons are bookend tackles for Portage Northern. Crazy... Like Jack, Hayden is a high-level D-I college football prospect. It would be quite the recruiting coup for some savvy D-I program to sign both Jack and Hayden. Indiana? Illinois? Kansas? Maryland?? And similar schools/programs, take a look at these two players. As Sandra Bullock's character in the "Blind Side" said to the high school coach as she was walking away after teaching her "adopted son" Michael how and why he needed to pass block and protect the quarterback, I say to any D-I college football program who signs either of these young men -- "You can thank me later."

Bruin French -- 6-4, 295-OT-Clare- From one of the top programs in Northern Michigan, French is an absolute mauler up front for the Pioneers. While U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow is a Clare High School graduate and downtown Clare's Cops & Doughnuts is arguably the single greatest doughnut shop in the country (the blueberry donuts are so good and are as big as a small child's head), college football coaches and recruiters have another reason to visit the town -- and that's to see French. I project him growing to 6-4, 330 at the next level and becoming one of those mean and nasty pulling guards for some power running, meat-grinding team. (BTW, I just figured out how to add photos. Hopefully, I'm doing it right. It only took me four years... Heck, I still have a landline phone, soooo...).

Bryant Schram -- 6-3, 285-OT-OG- Iron River West Iron County -- Oh man, this kid is as rugged as they come. Any guy who comes from a town called Iron River and lives in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, you can bet he's as tough as nails. Schram is not only physical and powerful, he's a talented football player, as well. Schram was so good, he was named to the Upper Peninsula Dream Team as a junior this past season. He is definitely a sleeper, but he shouldn't be. He's D-I for sure. He's a guy, who in three or four years, as a RS So. or RS Jr. would be 6-3, 325 and just a road grader of the highest order.

P.J. Brown -- 6-4, 280-OG-Monroe -- I absolutely love this kid. He's the best recruit out of Monroe since LB Audie Cole (North Carolina State, Minnesota Vikings, NFL). What I love most about Brown is his mobility. A fantastic athlete, Brown has been playing varsity basketball for the Trojans since he was a freshman. He has excellent feet for a player his size. He could play OT in college because of his athleticism, but I see him as a 6-4, 305-310 guard or even a center, with the footwork and ability to be quick in tight spaces and big and powerful enough to move people. He's a very high-level D-I sleeper recruit in the state of Michigan.

Peyton Young -- 6-4, 310-OT-Muskegon Oakridge -- One of the top offensive line prospects in the Grand Rapids/Muskegon area of Michigan. Young will be a three-year player for Oakridge. With overpowering size and girth, Young has been a key blocker for sophomore running back sensation Leroy Quinn (6-0, 220), one of Michigan's highest-rated recruits for the class of 2020.

DL-

DE-Luke Marsh-6-4, 250-Montague- This kid is outstanding. He'll be a four-year starter for Montague (a school just outside of Muskegon). Also a top-flight O-lineman, who I feel could be a high-level center or guard in college. As a DE, however, Marsh is quite a force to be reckoned with for the Wildcats. With good agility and power at the point of attack, Marsh manhandles most opponents lined up across from him. I've liked this kid for years now. It'll be interesting to see how his recruitment goes next season.

DT-Cole Stout-6-5, 255-Muskegon Mona Shores- As opposed to Luke Marsh, who's been on my radar for multiple seasons, Stout is somewhat new to my knowledge. But, oh man, what a talent this young man is already. Playing on one of Michigan's best squads last year, Stout teamed with fellow DT senior Chuckie Anthony (6-2, 295) and junior standout LB Jacob Wahlberg (6-4, 220, Pitt offer) to form the nucleus of one of the state of Michigan's best front seven units. Stout could flesh out at 6-5, 305 at the next level and be an absolute beast in the trenches for some Big Ten-type-level college program.

DE-Nathan Elenbaas-6-3, 230-Williamston -- One of the Lansing area's top-ranked D-I prospects for the class of 2019. Elenbaas is a machine, whose motor never seems to stop. This past season, Elenbaas was practically unblockable from his DE position for the Hornets, recording 110 tackles, including 21 TFL and 12 sacks. For his efforts this past season, Elenbaas was named to the Lansing State Journal Dream Team. He's a sleeper, but another one of those bonafide D-I guys who's under-recruited at the moment.

DE-DT-Peyton Dustin-6-5, 250-Berrien Springs -- From a small school in Southwest Michigan that has produced four Division I players in the last five years (including players who signed with Notre Dame, Michigan State and Michigan), Dustin, along with sophomore standout DT-OG Garrett Jones (6-4, 260), could possibly be the next two Shamrocks to compete at the D-I level on the gridiron. Raw for sure, Dustin though has excellent size, mobility and length to project to the D-I level. Last season, Dustin used his speed and athleticism to return a fumble 32 yards for a touchdown -- no small feat for a kid his size, who normally would be caught from behind.

DE-Dominique Davidson-6-6, 220-Lansing Everett -- Drool. And if you're a D-I football coach or recruiter, then you should be drooling, too, over the off-the-charts potential of Davidson. A hard-driven, freak-of-an-athlete-type player, Davidson could be a star player on either side of the football at DE or TE. This kid is one of the underclassmen players I'm most excited about watching this off-season and into next year, regarding his overall development. Also is a standout hoops player for one of Michigan's legendary basketball programs (some guy named Magic is a former Everett Viking). Davidson has all the physical tools to be a high-level D-I DE growing to 6-6, 260-270 and being one of those elite athletes that causes all kinds of problems for any OT attempting to run or pass block him on the edge. In the pics below, Davidson used his length and speed to get around the edge and block an extra point attempt, while on the hardcourt, he's shown going up for a two-handed slam dunk. Photos by Al Goldis, Lansing State Journal.

-- Up next, I'll highlight class of 2019 D-I-level sleeper DE-TE combo guys, LBs and two-way standouts. Here's a preview of a few of the players I'll shine the spotlight on in my next blog installment --

DE-TE Evan Orme-6-6, 245-Riverview Gabriel Richard
LB-TE-HB-Boone Bonnema-6-3, 215-Zeeland East
RB-LB-Maurice Hutchinson-6-2, 215-Sterling Heights Parkway Christian
RB-WR-DB-KR-Terryon Liddell-5-10, 170-Saginaw Swan Valley
RB-QB-DB-Drew Stout-6-2, 185-Carson City-Crystal

Michigan's 2017 All-State Team (and more)

Welp, the 2017 high school football season is in the books and it's time to unveil my All-State postseason teams. The previous blogs have highlighted my All-Region squads for 10 areas throughout the state of Michigan. Now, I'll put together the best team, the first-team, the All-State team for the 2017 season in Michigan, plus a few other unique squads. If I was going up against another state's top players, this is the starting team I'd take on the field with me (after hopefully a few weeks practice). Here is the 2017 Michigan All-State high school football squad --

Michigan's 2017 All-State Team (only seniors) -- 

WR-Brandon Gray--6-5, 190-Detroit Cass Tech-Washington State
TE-HB-Ben VanSumeren-6-3, 235-Essexville-Garber-U-M
RT-Michael Furtney-6-5, 290-Milan-Wisconsin
RG-Marquan McCall-6-4, 325-Oak Park-Kentucky
C-Tyrone Sampson-6-4, 295-Detroit East English Village-Syracuse
LG-Antwan Reed-6-7, 320-Muskegon
LT-Ryan Hayes-6-7, 270-Traverse City West-U-M
Slot-Jerrod Vines-6-0, 185-Detroit Central
WR-A.J. Abbott-6-2, 195-West Bloomfield-Wisconsin
QB-Theo Day-6-5, 205-Dearborn Divine Child-Michigan State
RB-Tariq Reid-6-0, 200-Davison and/or
       Ladarius Jefferson-6-2, 220-Muskegon-Michigan State

PK-Jake Moody-6-1, 185-Northville

DE-Desjuan Johnson-6-3, 260-Detroit East English Village-Toledo
DT-Aidan Hutchinson-6-6, 265-Dearborn Divine Child-U-M
DT-Eli Jackson-6-1, 305-Muskegon
DE-Jalen Mayfield-6-5, 255-Grand Rapids Catholic Central-U-M
LB-Ovie Oghoufu-6-3, 220-Farmington Hills Harrison-Notre Dame
LB-Kolin Demens-6-2, 220-Detroit Country Day
LB-DeAndre Square-6-1, 215-Detroit Cass Tech-Kentucky
CB-Kalon Gervin-5-10, 175-Detroit Cass Tech-Michigan State
CB-Davion Williams-6-2, 180-Belleville-Michigan State
FS-Elijah Collins-6-1, 200-U-D Jesuit-Michigan State
SS-Reggie Pearson-5-11, 195-River Rouge-Wisconsin

P-Joel Wilson-6-5, 195-Petoskey

Michigan's 2017 All-State Team (only juniors) -- 

WR-Julian Barnett-6-2, 185-Belleville-Verbal to Michigan State
TE-Dayton Keller-6-4, 245-Jackson Lumen Christi
RT-Devontae Dobbs-6-4, 290-Belleville
RG-Anthony Bradford-6-6, 330-Muskegon
C-Brock Jordan-6-3, 285-Okemos
LG-Karson Barnhart-6-5, 285-Paw Paw
LT-Logan Brown-6-7, 295-East Kentwood-Verbal to Wisconsin
Slot-Jalen Graham-6-2, 190-Detroit Cass Tech
WR-Damari Roberson-6-2, 190-Muskegon Mona Shores
QB-Dwan Mathis-6-5, 200-Oak Park-Verbal to Michigan State
RB-Jaren Mangham-6-1, 225-Detroit Cass Tech

PK-Jackson Griskie-5-11, 185-Macomb Lutheran North

DE-Michael Fletcher-6-6, 245-Flint Carman-Ainsworth
DT-Spencer Brown-6-6, 295-Walled Lake Western-Verbal to Michigan State
DT-Mazi Smith-6-4, 315-East Kentwood
DE-Adam Berghorst-6-7, 260-Zeeland East
LB-Ali'Vonta Wallace-6-1, 235-Muskegon
LB-Tyrece Woods-6-2, 245-Detroit King (I know he also plays DE, but I like him at LB)
LB-Lance Dixon-6-2, 215-West Bloomfield
CB-Daraun McKinney-5-10, 180-River Rouge and/or
       Rod Heard-5-10, 165-Farmington Hills Harrison
CB-Xavier Goldsmith-5-10, 170-Detroit Cass Tech
FS-Marcus Fuqua-6-1, 190-Southfield A & T and/or
      M.J. Griffin-6-1, 185-Saline
SS-Marvin Grant-6-2, 205-Detroit King

P-Luke Elzinga-6-4, 200-Grand Rapids Christian

Michigan's 2017 All-State Team (only sophomores and freshmen) -- 

WR-Devell Washington-6-4, 195-Bay City Central-Soph. and/or
        Chastin Cross-6-3, 185-Lincoln Park-Soph.
TE-Malik Carr-6-6, 205-Oak Park-Soph. and/or
       Ian Stewart-6-4, 195-Gibraltar Carlson-Soph.
RT-Rocco Spindler-6-5, 255-Clarkston-Frosh. and/or
      Garrett Dellinger-6-6, 255-Clarkston-Frosh.
RG-Justin Rogers-6-3, 280-Oak Park-Soph.
C-Jake Swirple-6-2, 270-Livonia Franklin-Soph.
LG-Keegan Smith-6-4, 275-Jackson Lumen Christi-Soph. and/or
       Evan Egan-6-5, 270-Durand-Soph.
LT-Tate Mackenzie-6-7, 305-Ypsilanti Lincoln-Soph. and/or
      Grant Toutant-6-6, 270-Warren DeLaSalle-Soph.
Slot-Rashawn Williams-6-1, 200-Detroit King-Soph. and/or
        Cameron Martinez-5-11, 180-Muskegon Catholic Central-Soph.
WR-Christian Fitzpatrick-6-2, 175-West Bloomfield-Soph. and/or
        Abdur-Raheem Yasem-6-1, 175-Walled Lake Western-Soph.
QB- Dustin Fletcher-6-3, 210-Flint Carman-Ainsworth-Soph. and/or
        Raquan Bell-6-4, 195-Detroit Renaissance-Soph.
RB- Leroy Quinn-6-0, 220-Muskegon Oakridge-Soph. and/or
        Theo Ellis-5-10, 190-Port Huron Northern-Soph.

PK- Dayton Rose-6-2, 215-Muskegon Orchard View-Soph.

DE-Damon Payne-6-4, 250-Belleville-Frosh.
DT-Josh Williams-6-3, 280-Ann Arbor Gabriel Richard-Soph. and/or
       Athey Dykhouse-6-4, 255-Zeeland East-Soph.
DT-Aiden Train-6-4, 275-Central Montcalm-Soph. and/or
       Adam Lambert-6-5, 255-Grand Rapids NorthPointe Christian-Soph.
DE-Billie Roberts-6-4, 235-Muskegon-Soph.
LB-Brayden Shaw-6-2, 215-Ithaca-Soph.
LB-Jordan Turner-6-2, 210-Farmington-Soph.
LB-Emanuel Fletcher-6-2, 210-Flint Carman-Ainsworth-Frosh.
CB-Lemuel Neely-Watley-5-11, 175-Detroit East English Village-Soph. and/or
       David Carter-6-0, 165-Melvindale-Soph.
CB-Enzo Jennings-6-2, 180-Oak Park-Soph.
FS-Amere Pickett-5-11, 190-Saginaw-Frosh. and/or
      Tristen Hines-5-10, 170-Milan-Soph.
SS-Josh Wiley-6-2, 190-Detroit Cody-Soph.

P-Brady Zarschler-6-1, 170-Macomb Dakota-Soph.

My "Talk to me in four or five years when these guys are RS juniors and/or RS seniors" 2017 Michigan All-State Team -- only seniors (Put these guys in a top-flight D-I program for four or five years and let them develop/gain weight/lift weights/move to new positions and this squad would win a Big Ten, if not, a national title -- or at least be in the conversation) --

WR-Matt Harmon-6-5, 215-Ypsilanti
TE-Jaylan Franklin-6-5, 210-Gibraltar Carlson and/or
       Caden Prieskorn-6-6, 235-Orchard Lake St. Mary's
RT-Ryan McCafferty-6-9, 290-Battle Creek Harper Creek
RG-Alex Howie-6-5, 315-Plymouth Salem
C-Cody Carone-6-5, 320-Rockford
LG-Dan VanOpstall-6-6, 260-Jenison
LT-Jake Witt-6-7, 240-Ontonogan (could be TE) and/or
      Tirrell Hausmanis-6-4, 260-Three Rivers
Slot-Noah Koenigsnecht-6-2, 180-DeWitt
WR-Caleb Murphey-6-4, 215-Dowagiac
QB-Josh Czarnota-6-2, 215-Fenton and/or
       David McCullum-6-2, 175-Waterford Mott
RB-Rashawn Allen-5-9, 215-Orchard Lake St. Mary's and/or
       Nolan Fugate-6-1, 205-Grand Rapids Catholic Central

PK-Adam Culp-6-3, 180-Ithaca

DE-Gio Kizer-6-6, 235-Warren Fitzgerald
DT-Gabe Moore-6-3, 290-Olivet
DT-John Hardy-6-5, 270-Bay City John Glenn
DE-Jake Dorn-6-4, 250-St. Johns and/or
       Brandon Rake-6-7, 240-Whitehall
LB-Karl Brooks-6-5, 210-Lansing Sexton
LB-Steele Fortress-6-4, 235-Jackson County Parma Western
LB-Kyren Cunningham-6-1, 225-Orchard Lake St. Mary's and/or
       Jacob Huysken-6-1, 205-Schoolcraft
CB-Cody Blankenburg-5-9, 170-Lansing Sexton
CB-Anthony Fordham-6-1, 185-Davison
FS-Matt Moorer-6-1, 170-Ypsilanti Lincoln
SS-Darius Pruitt-6-4, 205-Kalamazoo Central

P-Pierson Cooke-5-10, 170-Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood

Detroit All-Region Team

 The 2017 Detroit All-Region team is ridiculously skilled and talented. There are D-I high-level, explosive players at every position. It amazes me every season the amount and depth of high school football talent in Detroit. The Motor City over the years has produced some of the game's most legendary and accomplished players. Off the top of my head, current NFL players from Detroit include TE Antonio Gates (Detroit Central, Kent State, NFL), DE Brandon Graham (Detroit Crockett/East English Village, U-M, NFL), LB Connor Barwin (U-D Jesuit, Cincinnati, NFL), DE Will Gholston (Detroit Southeastern, MSU, NFL), DT Lawrence Thomas (Detroit Renaissance, MSU, NFL), DE-LB Nick Perry (Detroit King, USC, NFL), DT Johnathan Hankins (Detroit Southeastern, Ohio State, NFL), CB Tony Lippett (Detroit Crockett/East English Village, NFL), CB Jourdan Lewis (Detroit Cass Tech, U-M, NFL), S Delano Hill (Detroit Cass Tech, U-M, NFL) and CB Desmond King (Detroit Crockett/East English Village, Iowa, NFL), while former NFL stars from the city include RB Jerome Bettis (Detroit Mackenzie, Notre Dame NFL, Pro Football Hall of Fame), DE Eugene "Big Daddy" Lipscomb (Detroit Miller, U.S. Marine Corps, NFL), DB Mike Harden (Detroit Central, U-M, NFL), WR Derrick Mason (Detroit Mumford, MSU, NFL), OT Luis Sharpe (Detroit Southwestern, UCLA, NFL), OG Ed Budde (Detroit Denby, MSU, NFL), RB Ron Johnson (Detroit Northwestern, U-M, NFL), DB Randy Logan (Detroit Northern, U-M, NFL), OG Reggie McKenzie (Highland Park, U-M, NFL), DT Gilbert Brown (Detroit Mackenzie, Kansas, NFL), LB Thomas "Pepper" Johnson (Detroit Mackenzie, Ohio State, NFL) and on and on and on... Here is the 2017 Detroit All-Region Team --


Detroit 2017 All-Region Team -- 

WR-Brandon Gray-6-5, 190-Detroit Cass Tech- Match-up nightmare for opposing defensive backs. With size and speed, Gray is one of the top WR prospects in the country. Verbal to Washington State.
TE-Jalyn Benning-6-6, 230-Detroit Pershing
       Joshua Coffey-6-4, 235-Hamtramck
OL-Carlos Vettorello-6-4, 285-U-D Jesuit
OL-Josh Mayberry-6-2, 280-Detroit King
OL-Tyrone Sampson-6-4, 295-Detroit East English Village- Truly one of the best centers to come out of the state of Michigan in years. Also a talented DT. Completely controls the middle of the line of scrimmage at center and handles any defender unfortunate enough to line up in front of him. Verbal to Syracuse.
OL-Will Garbarith-6-4, 275-Detroit Cass Tech
OL-Jeremiah Hardge-6-3, 265-Detroit King
WR-Jerrod Vines-6-0, 185-Detroit Central- My No. 1 wide receiver prospect in Michigan. One of the most explosive players in the Midwest. Runs 4.4 40. Can take it the distance from anywhere on the field.
        Davion Hightower-5-11, 170-Detroit Cody
WR-Erik Gibson-6-2, 190-Detroit King- Big, strong WR with speed and good hands. Verbal to Minnesota.
QB-El-Julien Jordan-6-3, 210-Detroit Central- Consummate leader, outstanding ability, strong passing the football or scrambling for extra yardage. I love this kid. Verbal to WMU.
RB-Elijah Collins-6-1, 200-U-D Jesuit- One of the top two-way players in the state of Michigan. Durable, productive runner who, given a crease, can take it to the proverbial house on any play. Also an outstanding defensive back prospect. Verbal to Michigan State.
      Jalen Jackson-5-9, 205-Detroit King

K-Tyrese Allen-6-0, 220-Detroit Community

DE-Andre Carter-6-4, 255-Detroit Cass Tech- Strong at the point of attack, Carter is one of the best D-linemen in Michigan. Could add weight and move inside at the next level. Verbal to WMU.
DT-Desjuan Johnson-6-3, 260-Detroit East English Village- Incredible athlete, one of Michigan's top pass rushers, Johnson consistently makes plays in the opponent's backfield. Verbal to Toledo.
DT-Erik Smith-6-1, 280-Detroit Cass Tech
      Dave Blake-6-1, 270-Detroit Denby
DE-Maurice White-6-5, 250-Detroit King
LB-DeAndre Square-6-1, 215-Detroit Cass Tech - One of my favorite players in the state of Michigan. This kid has it all. He can play in space and defend the pass or come up and stuff the run. Outstanding all-around player, with 4.5 speed. Verbal to Kentucky.
LB-Keith Johnson-6-3, 245-Detroit Loyola
       Dyonte Johnson-6-3, 220-Detroit Cass Tech
LB-Brandon Green-6-2, 215-Detroit Mumford- A vastly underrated player, in my opinion. Has Big Ten-level ability and athleticism. Top basketball player, Green could play LB or WR at the next level. Runs a 4.5 40.
       Jaylin Early-6-1, 215-Detroit Denby
DB-Kalon Gervin-5-10, 175-Detroit Cass Tech- Arguably the top cover corner in the Midwest, if not the nation. Gervin can flat out shut down any opponent he's assigned to cover. Elite athletic ability, football skills and speed (4.3 40), Gervin is one of the country's best recruits. Verbal to Michigan State.
DB-Jaeveyon Morton-5-10, 170-Detroit King - Big-time, lockdown-type cornerback from one of the best high school football programs in the Midwest. Verbal to Iowa State.
DB-Zhamaine March-5-9, 175-Detroit East English Village - Excellent two-way talent at either RB or DB. Verbal to Northern Illinois.
       Derrick Corbin-5-11, 170-Detroit Western - All-around player who could play on either side of the football at the next level. Strong RB-WR prospect on offense or DB on defense, Corbin has verbally committed to Kent State.
DB-Lavien Fields-6-1, 185-Detroit Mumford

Detroit All-Region Top Underclassmen (all are D-I recruits) -- 

LB-DE-Tyrece Woods-6-2, 245-Detroit King-Jr.
S-Marvin Grant-6-2, 205-Detroit King-Jr.
RB-LB-Jaren Mangham-6-1, 225-Detroit Cass Tech-Jr.
DB-Xavier Goldsmith-5-9, 165-Detroit Cass Tech-Jr.
LB-Rich Miller-6-1, 215-Detroit King-Jr.
LB-Dayone Smith-6-1, 235-Detroit Western-Jr.
WR-DB-Lemuel Neely-Watley-5-11, 175-Detroit East English Village-Soph.
OL-Trevon Roberts-6-2, 290-Detroit Central-Jr.
DT-Jalen Bell-5-11, 285-Detroit King-Jr.
RB-Lew Nichols-6-0, 195-Detroit Cass Tech-Jr.
DB-RB-Jordan Anderson-5-11, 190-Detroit East English Village-Jr.
DB-WR-Jalen Graham-6-2, 185-Detroit Cass Tech-Jr.
QB-Dequan Finn-6-2, 190-Detroit King-Jr.
DE-Kendall Howard-6-1, 245-Detroit Western-Jr.
LB-Latrell Thompson-6-4, 230-Detroit Edison-Soph.
DT-Justin Hudson-6-5, 290-Detroit Delta Prep-Jr.
DB-Josh Wiley-6-2, 190-Detroit Cody-Soph.
DB-Elija Griffin-5-11, 185-Detroit East English Village-Jr.
WR-Rashawn Williams-6-1, 200-Detroit King-Soph.
WR-Kyron McKinnie-Harper-6-0, 175-Detroit Cass Tech-Jr.
OL-Allen Jones-6-5, 315-Detroit Cass Tech-Jr.
QB-Raquan Bell-6-4, 195-Detroit Renaissance-Soph.
WR-Darrell Wyatt-6-3, 185-Detroit King-Jr.
PK-Eric Ramerez-6-0, 190-Detroit Cass Tech-Jr.
WR-Kejuan Sanders-6-1, 180-Detroit Community-Jr.
OL-Rachon Gulley-6-4, 325-Detroit East English Village-Jr.
OL-Christian Dudley-6-2, 280-Detroit Cass Tech-Jr.
WR-Jalen McGaughy-6-2, 200-Detroit King-Jr.

Macomb County All-Region Team

 The 2017 Macomb County All-Region Team is stocked full from top to bottom with high-level Division I college football talent. Metro Detroit's Macomb County area (which also includes Grosse Pointe and Harper Woods) traditionally has produced some of the state of Michigan's premier high school football talent year in and year out. Former and current Macomb County area NFL players include OG Joe DeLamielleure (Center Line St. Clement, MSU, NFL, Pro Football Hall of Fame), DT Wally Chambers (Mount Clemens, Eastern Kentucky, NFL), TE Ron Kramer (East Detroit/Eastpointe, U-M, NFL), DT Carl Davis (Sterling Heights Stevenson, Iowa, NFL), DT L.T. Walton (Clinton Township Clintondale, CMU, NFL), WR Braylon Edwards (Harper Woods Bishop Gallagher, U-M, NFL), TE Pete Chryplewicz (Sterling Heights Stevenson, Notre Dame, NFL), LB John DiGiorgio (Utica Eisenhower, Saginaw Valley State, NFL), WR Gary Ballman (East Detroit/Eastpointe, MSU, NFL), DE Frank Zombo (Sterling Heights Stevenson, CMU, NFL), Coach George Allen (St. Clair Shores Lake Shore, Alma/EMU/U-M, NFL, Pro Football Hall of Fame). Here is the 2017 Macomb County All-Region Team --


Macomb County 2017 All-Region Team -- 

WR-Myles McHaney-6-4, 225-L'Anse Creuse North- Big-bodied wide receiver prospect who also could play linebacker at the D-I level. Runs approximately a 4.5-4.6 40. Could bulk up to play H-back or even DE at the next level. Intriguing prospect.
TE-Luke Pfromm-6-6, 235-Warren DeLaSalle -- Quarterbacked the Pilots to the Division 2 state championship this past season. Also a skilled hoops player. He could play QB at the next level, but I just see him as a big-time TE recruit. With his basketball agility and height, I see Pfromm fleshing out at 6-6, 255 and being a match-up problem for any LB or DB in college.
      Cameron Crosby-6-4, 220-Warren DeLaSalle
OL-Patrick Donovan-6-5, 290-Macomb Dakota- Physical, punishing run blocker for Dakota, Donovan is underrecruited, in my opinion. This guy has good feet, movement and athleticism for a player his size. D-I coaches/recruiters, where are you on this kid?
OL-Colin Motloch-6-4, 300-Utica
OL-Derian Doherty-6-4, 280-Utica Eisenhower- Outstanding prospect from one of the state's top programs. Excellent technique, footwork, I see Doherty being able to play any position along the O-line at the next level.
OL-Andrew Murphy-6-2, 280-New Baltimore Anchor Bay
OL-Brian Buchman-6-5, 270-Warren Mott
WR-Kavon Higdon-5-8, 155-Utica
WR-Jalen Thomas-6-2, 180-Utica Ford
QB-Max Wittwer-6-3, 185-Utica Eisenhower- One of the most exciting players in the state of Michigan. Wittwer is a double-threat from the QB position. An accurate passer, Wittwer also has the speed and scrambling ability to make positive yardage if a play breaks down. With the ball in Wittwer's hands, a play is never over, even if it appears it is well-defended.
RB-Sheldon Cage-6-3, 210-Grosse Pointe North- One of my major "sleepers" in the state of Michigan. I love this kid. He's an explosive running back for North, but I like him at linebacker at the next level. Cage is one of those players with the speed and agility to play in space defending the pass or the tenacity to stick his nose into the fray along the line of scrimmage to make a tackle. Has 4.5 40 speed.

K-Cam Shook-6-1, 185-Grosse Pointe South

DE-Gio Kizer-6-6, 235-Warren Fitzgerald- This guy...Big Ten?? Where are you? I don't know what about 6-6, 235 and running a 4.6 40 is so unattractive to recruiters. Kizer is definitely one of the state of Michigan's biggest "sleepers" when it comes to being a high-level D-I recruit. Kizer has elite athleticism, explosiveness and coordination, so much so, that this past season he used his height and talent to intercept two passes and return both for touchdowns. How many D-ends can do that?
DT-Dwayne Lewis-6-4, 325-Clinton Township Chippewa Valley -- Big, heavy, thick immovable player in the middle for Chippewa Valley. One of the best defensive tackles in the state, in my opinion. Also a top heavyweight wrestler.
DT-Tremaine Dent-6-3, 235-Warren Lincoln
DE-Kofe Limbrell-6-4, 225-Port Huron Northern
      Colton McKiernan-6-6, 220-Richmond- A skilled wrestler for one of Michigan's best programs, McKiernan could be a terrific player as a DE, TE or even an OT at the next level, if he decided to go that route.
LB-Kelvin Jones-6-2, 210-Harper Woods- Jones is a quick linebacker, with explosive ability, who can play in space.
      JaMichael Johnson-6-2, 215-St. Clair Shores South Lake
LB-Taylor Purnell-6-2, 225-Grosse Pointe North
LB-Henry Janeway-6-4, 220-Utica Eisenhower- Tall, rangy prospect who could bulk up and play defensive end at the collegiate level.
DB-Jaylen Branch-6-2, 170-Warren Michigan Collegiate
       Nick Folkerts-6-2, 175-Algonac
DB-Jajuan Lovejoy-6-1, 170-Warren Woods-Tower
DB-Cardell Snorton-6-1, 190-Clinton Township Chippewa Valley- Three-year starter for Chippewa Valley, one of the state's best programs. Snorton has the size and football skill to make an excellent safety at the next level.
DB-Gleo Wade-5-11, 215-Clinton Township Clintondale- I love this kid. He's a top-flight running back, linebacker, safety for Clintondale. Despite his height, I believe he's a D-I recruit as a linebacker. He has running back speed and footwork, but a linebacker's physical, intense demeanor. I see him growing to 5-11, 235 and being a terrific all-around player for some smart, dedicated D-I coach/recruiter.

Macomb County Top Underclassmen (all are D-I level prospects) -- 

LB-Brock Horne-6-2, 215-Romeo-Jr.
DB-Josh DeBerry-6-0, 175-Warren DeLaSalle-Jr.
LB-Marcel Lewis-6-1, 205-Clinton Township Chippewa Valley-Jr.
OL-Danny Motowski-6-2, 250-Warren DeLaSalle-Jr.
DE-Damond Duncan-6-1, 245-St. Clair Shores Lakeview-Jr.
OL-Chris Cominos-6-3, 260-Warren DeLaSalle-Jr.
QB-Tommy Schuster-6-1, 185-Clinton Township Chippewa Valley-Jr.
RB-Theo Ellis-5-10, 190-Port Huron Northern-Soph.
PK-Jackson Griskie-5-11, 185-Macomb Lutheran North-Jr.
DB-Ja'von Kimpson-5-11, 180-Clinton Township Chippewa Valley-Jr.
WR-Evan Vaillancourt-5-10, 190-Warren DeLaSalle-Jr.
LB-RB-Maurice Hutchinson-6-2, 215-Sterling Heights Parkway Christian-Jr.
DT-Jaren Johnson-6-3, 260-Warren Lincoln-Jr.
P-Brady Zarschler-6-1, 170-Macomb Dakota-Soph.
OL-Grant Toutant-6-6, 270-Warren DeLaSalle-Soph.
TE-Erik Fraeyman-6-4, 235-Romeo-Jr.
WR-David Ellis-6-0, 190-Clinton Township Chippewa Valley-Jr.

Oakland County All-Region Team

The Oakland County All-Region team is so stacked with big-time, bonafide Division I college football talent, a D-I coach could only recruit this county and still field a championship-level squad. The skill on this team from top to bottom is mind-blowing. I'm not even going to comment on all the former NFL players from this region, it's just too long of a list. I will, just off the top of my head, list a few current NFL guys suiting up on Sundays from Oakland County -- OG T. J. Lang (Birmingham Brother Rice, EMU, NFL), OT Eric Fisher (Rochester Hills Stoney Creek, CMU, NFL No. 1 overall draft pick in 2013), WR Bennie Fowler (Detroit (Beverly Hills) Country Day, MSU, NFL), WR Allen Robinson (Orchard Lake St. Mary's, Penn State, NFL), LB Matt Judon (West Bloomfield, Grand Valley State, NFL), WR Devin Funches (Farmington Hills Harrison, U-M, NFL), S Jeff Heath (Lake Orion, Saginaw Valley State, NFL), TE Dion Sims (Orchard Lake St. Mary's, MSU, NFL), WR Aaron Burbridge (Farmington Hills Harrison, MSU, NFL), S-LB Josh Jones (Walled Lake Western, North Carolina State, NFL), QB Drew Stanton (Farmington Hills Harrison, MSU, NFL) and on and on and on... Here is the 2017 Oakland County All-Region squad --

-- Oakland County All-Region Team -- 

WR-A.J. Abbott-6-2, 185-West Bloomfield-Silky, smooth player. Great hands and route runner. Pound-for-pound, might be the best receiver in the state of Michigan. Verbal to Wisconsin.
TE-Caden Prieskorn-6-6, 235-Orchard Lake St. Mary's- Outstanding QB, but I see him as a TE at the next level. D-I level hoops player. Terrific all-around athlete.
OL-Nick Carey-6-7, 290-Detroit (Novi) Catholic Central-Mauler up front for power-running Catholic Central. Verbal to Toledo.
OL-Marquan McCall-6-4, 325-Oak Park- My No. 1-ranked overall prospect in the state of Michigan. Is an overwhelming force along the offensive line. Also talented DT. Verbal to Kentucky.
OL-Chris Rexroth-6-6, 275-Farmington Hills Harrison-Versatile player along the line of scrimmage for D-3 state runner-up Hawks. Can play center, guard or tackle. Also skilled long-snapper.
OL-Noah Nicklin-6-4, 290-Clarkston-Leader up front for D-1 state champion Wolves.
OL-Javon Foster-6-6, 300-West Bloomfield-Outstanding two-way player for West Bloomfield. Long, lanky performer, with good feet and mobility. Helped lead the Lakers to a D-1 state runner-up spot this past season. Missouri verbal.
WR-Taj Mustapha-6-1, 180-West Bloomfield- Great speed, hands. Explosive performer. Teamed with A. J. Abbott to form the best WR duo in the state, if not the Midwest. Verbal to Wisconsin.
WR-Traveon Maddox-6-4, 185-Novi- D-I level player in both football and basketball. Will play hoops at D-I Oakland University.
QB-Bryce Veasley-6-4, 230-West Bloomfield- Prolific offensive performer for D-1 state runner-up Lakers. Threw for over 3,000 yards this past year. Bowling Green State verbal.
       David McCullum-6-2, 175-Waterford Mott
RB-Rashawn Allen-5-9, 215-Orchard Lake St. Mary's

PK-P-Pierson Cooke-5-10, 170-Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood

DE-Athletic Jones-6-4, 245-Rochester Hills Stoney Creek- One of my "sleepers" in the state of Michigan. Talented athlete, pass rusher at DE. Big Ten? From same school as 2013 NFL No. 1 overall draft pick OT Eric Fisher (CMU, Kansas City Chiefs).
DT-Griffen Best-6-4, 300-Birmingham Groves
DT-Stewart Newblatt-6-4, 255-Clarkston
       Christian Love-6-1, 285-Detroit (Beverly Hills) Country Day
DE-Jack Sape-6-5, 245-Bloomfield Hills- Love this kid. Verbal to Ball State. He's Big Ten level, with size and speed combo.
       Michael Laurencelle-6-4, 225-Birmingham Brother Rice
LB-Ovie Oghoufo-6-3, 220-Farmington Hills Harrison- One of the nation's top LB prospects. Elite pass rusher and defender, whether in open space or at the line of scrimmage. Led Hawks to D-3 state runner-up this past season. Verbal to Notre Dame.
LB-Kolin Demens-6-2, 220-Detroit (Beverly Hills) Country Day- The ceiling is so high for this young man. Brother of former U-M and NFL player LB Kenny Demens (Country Day alum). Runs 4.5 40. Sideline-to-sideline type tackler.
LB-Kyren Cunningham-6-1, 225-Orchard Lake St. Mary's- Truly one of the state's recruiting mysteries. What is wrong with the college football recruiters/coaches in this state and throughout the Midwest? How can this kid not have multiple Big Ten offers? I don't understand. He's a gamer (caught state-championship-winning pass as time expired as a junior last year for St. Mary's), he's a reigning state champion sprinter/relay guy (on state championship relay with three other D-I football recruits, all WRs or DBs, he was only junior on the relay, others were seniors), he runs a 4.5 40, a two-year, two-way starter for one of the Midwest's top football programs, playing in one of the nation's toughest leagues (Detroit Catholic League), he's an outstanding student and he's 6-1, 225 pounds. He'll probably flesh out at 6-1, 235-240 and run a 4.5 40 or, I bet, a 4.4 before it's all said and done. Indiana, Purdue, Illinois...fellas...where are you?
DB-Vincent Gray-6-2, 185-Rochester Adams- Shut down corner of the highest order. Tall and fast, Gray is one of the best DBs in the Midwest.
DB-Robert Daniel-5-10, 185-Oak Park
       Matthew Gilbert-6-0, 175-Southfield A & T
DB-Tieler Houston-6-2, 185-Clarkston- I'll admit it, I really didn't know much about this kid, but watching the D-1 state championship game between Clarkston and West Bloomfield (Michigan's big school division), Houston stood out the most in a contest that featured over 20 future Division I college football players. Led Wolves to D-1 state title. Super athletic and fluid, he seemed to be all over the field making plays, especially when defending WRs A.J. Abbott and Taj Mustapha (both Wisconsin verbals). If Abbott and Mustapha are Big Ten level, then this kid is definitely Big Ten level, as well.
       Colin Heard-5-10, 175-West Bloomfield
DB-Patrick Tesho-6-1, 200-Royal Oak

-- Oakland County Top Underclassmen (all D-I level players). There are so many high-level future collegiate players in this Oakland County region, it's remarkable. They are all legit D-I guys -- 

DT-OL-Spencer Brown-6-6, 295-Walled Lake Western-Jr.- Verbal to MSU.
OL-Jacob Dean-6-8, 305-Walled Lake Western-Jr.
DE-TE-Devin Baldwin-6-4, 245-Southfield A & T-Jr.
OL-DT-Justin Rogers-6-3, 280-Oak Park-Soph.
DE-Damon King-6-3, 240-Farmington-Jr.
DT-OT-Maverick Hansen-6-5, 255-Farmington Hills Harrison-Jr.
OL-Rocco Spindler-6-5, 250-Clarkston-Frosh.- Yes, he's former Detroit Lion DT Marc Spindler's son.
OL-Garrett Dellinger-6-6, 255-Clarkston-Frosh.
DT-Dan Files-6-3, 305-Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood-Jr.
QB-Dwan Mathis-6-3, 195-Oak Park-Jr.-Verbal to MSU.
QB-Sam Johnson-6-3, 190-Walled Lake Western-Jr.
LB-Jordan Turner-6-2, 210-Farmington-Soph.
DB-Enzo Jennings-6-2, 180-Oak Park-Soph.
LB-Lance Dixon-6-2, 210-West Bloomfield-Jr.
DB-Roderick Heard-5-10, 160-Farmington Hills Harrison-Jr.
DB-Marcus Fuqua-6-1, 190-Southfield A & T-Jr.
LB-Clarence Gasker-6-0, 205-Orchard Lake St. Mary's-Jr.
DB-Khaili Dawsey-5-9, 165-Birmingham Groves-Jr.
DB-RB-Kobe Myers-6-1, 190-Walled Lake Western-Jr.
DT-Kyle Arnoldi-6-3, 245-Walled Lake Northern-Soph.
DE-FB-Cole Mitchell-6-2, 250-Rochester Adams-Jr.
DB-Anthony Enechukwu-6-1, 180-Orchard Lake St. Mary's-Soph.
WR-Tre Mosley-6-2, 170-West Bloomfield-Jr.
RB-Kendall Williams-5-9, 165-Farmington-Jr.
RB-Torriano Richardson-5-10, 170-Oak Park-Jr.
QB-Austin Brown-6-1, 190-Madison Heights Madison-Jr.
QB-Mariano Valenti-6-2, 200-Birmingham Brother Rice-Jr.
WR-Christian Fitzpatrick-6-2, 175-West Bloomfield-Soph.
WR-Abdur-Raheem Yasem-6-1, 175-Walled Lake Western-Soph.
RB-Marcus Guerrero-5-8, 185-Waterford Mott-Jr.
WR-Myles Gresham-5-9, 160-North Farmington-Soph.
DE-Chauncey Ernst-6-1, 235-Madison Heights Madison-Jr.
WR-Matt Bradley-5-11, 175-Waterford Mott-Jr.
LB-Isaac Kinne-6-1, 190-Lake Orion-Soph.
TE-WR-Malik Carr-6-6, 200-Oak Park-Soph.
DB-Derrick Hinton-5-10, 170-Auburn Hills Avondale-Jr.
DB-WR-Kobi Russell-6-1, 180-Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood-Jr.

Western Wayne/Downriver All-Region Team

The Western Wayne County/Downriver All-Region squad is a rugged, physical and highly-talented team filled with Division I college football talent. This area of Metro Detroit is a mostly blue collar, hard-scrabble region that historically produces football players of the same ilk. Top NFL players from the area include RB Tyrone Wheatley (Dearborn Heights Robichaud, U-M, NFL), DE Dave Pureifory (Ecorse, EMU, NFL), DT Kris Jenkins (Belleville, Maryland, NFL), RB Chester Taylor (River Rouge, Toledo, NFL), QB Gary Danielson (Dearborn Divine Child, Purdue, NFL), WR Keshawn Martin (Westland John Glenn, MSU, NFL), OL Joe Carollo (Wyandotte. Notre Dame, NFL), DT Cullen Jenkins (Belleville, CMU, NFL), RB Jeremy Langford (Westland John Glenn, MSU, NFL) and Pat Shurmur (Dearborn Divine Child, MSU, current offensive coordinator for Minnesota Vikings and former head coach of Cleveland Browns and Philadelphia Eagles-interim). There are many more NFL players from this area, but that's a list for another time and another day. Here is the 2017 Western Wayne County/Downriver All-Region team --

Western Wayne County/Downriver All-Region Squad - 

WR-Jaylan Franklin-6-5, 210-Gibraltar Carlson- Verbal to Wisconsin. One of the state's best all-around football players. Could play WR, TE, DE or LB at the next level. Runs a 4.6 40. He could be a tough match-up at 6-5, 245 as a TE or coming off the edge as a 6-5, 255 DE.
TE-Lee Payton-6-3, 220-River Rouge- Another top-notch athlete. Payton has the skills and speed to line up wide or in close along the line of scrimmage. Offered by Florida, but verbal to WMU.
OL-Gio Agazzi-6-5, 285-Livonia Stevenson
OL-Alex Howie-6-5, 315-Plymouth Salem- One of the state of Michigan's best O-linemen, his celing is quite high, yet, in my opinion, he's being under-recruited. Pure power up front, he blows opponents off the line. Also a talented DT. Could play on either side of the football in college.
OL-Jalen Howard-6-3, 310-Redford Thurston
OL-Sean Pilon-6-2, 285-Dearborn Divine Child
OL-Quinton Barrow-6-6, 290-Romulus- Long arms, good feet, Barrow is an excellent LT prospect.
WR-Kendrick Stanley-6-1, 185-Wyandotte
WR-George Ferguson-6-1, 165-Livonia Stevenson
QB-Theo Day-6-5, 205-Dearborn Divine Child- Verbal to MSU. Tall, rangy QB with a strong arm. Also mobile enough to avoid pass rush and gain positive yardage with his legs. My No. 1 QB prospect in the state of Michigan.
RB-Isaac Moore-6-0, 210-Livonia Franklin- Tough, hard-running workhorse for D-2 state runner-up. Physical player who came on late, but is a high-level D-I performer.
       Andrew Davis-5-10, 180-Plymouth Salem- Explosive speed from the RB position. Give him a crease and he's gone. Finished eighth in the 100 meters (10.99) at last June's Division 1 state meet.

PK-P-Jake Moody-6-1, 185-Northville- Truly gifted as a kicker. I've read in different articles where he's been ranked from No. 4 to the No. 1 overall kicking prospect in the country. Has nailed four FGs over 50 yards this season, including a long of 58 yards. He also blasted a kickoff 80 yards (started at 20-yard line because of penalties) into the end zone this year. A genuine game-changer from the kicking position.

DE-Tyler Carter-6-2, 230-River Rouge
DT-Aidan Hutchinson-6-5, 265-Dearborn Divine Child- The bell cow of this defensive unit. Hutchinson is one of the best defensive linemen in the nation. A man among boys at times, Hutchinson has a giant wingspan, quickness and athleticism unusual for a player his size. I see him being 6-5, 285-290 at the next level and able to move around between DT and DE. Verbal to U-M.
DT-Josh Barney-6-2, 270-Woodhaven
DE-Hunter Soave-6-4, 260-Wyandotte
LB-Noah Brown-6-2, 215-Canton- Speed player who has a big-time upside. High level athlete, basketball player. Interesting prospect.
      Baron Sholar-6-0, 210-River Rouge
LB-Jacob Mass-6-3, 225-Livonia Franklin- Emotional leader of D-2 state runner-up squad. Physical, intense player with great football awareness and instincts.
LB-Isaac Grant-5-10, 210-Redford Union- I love this guy. Not very well known, but he's a three-time MVP for Redford Union. Outstanding two-way player (also talented RB). I project him to 5-10, 225-230 LB at the next level. Maybe the most naturally skilled player on this team.
DB-Davion Williams-6-2, 185-Belleville- One of the best cover corners in the Midwest. The best athlete on this squad. Had offers to play D-I basketball. Could be future All-American-type DB at the collegiate level. Verbal to MSU.
DB-Youseph Saad-5-11, 170-Dearborn
       Patrick Lupro-5-11, 185-Belleville
DB-K'mare Carey-6-2, 170-Belleville- Verbal to WMU. Tall DB with big-play ability.
DB-Reggie Pearson-5-11, 190-River Rouge- One of the top safeties in the Midwest. A bone-cruncher as a tackler, Pearson is a heat-seeking missile from his safety position. Verbal to Wisconsin.

-- Top Western Wayne County/Downriver Underclassmen -- 

OL-Devontae Dobbs-6-4, 290-Belleville-Jr.- Ranked by some outlets as the No. 1 OT prospect in the nation for the Class of 2019.
OL-Keegan Vaughn-6-6, 285-Westland John Glenn-Jr.
DB-WR-Julian Barnett-6-2, 195-Belleville-Jr.- Verbal to MSU.
DB-WR-KR-Daraun McKinney-5-10, 180-River Rouge-Jr.
WR-Ian Stewart-6-4, 190-Gibraltar Carlson-Soph.
WR-DB-David Carter-6-0, 165-Melvindale-Soph.
WR-Chastin Cross-6-3, 185-Lincoln Park-Soph.
DE-TE-Evan Orme-6-6, 245-Riverview Gabriel Richard-Jr.
DE-LB-Jalen Hunt-6-3, 230-Belleville-Jr.
DT-Damon Payne-6-4, 250-Belleville-Frosh.
DE-Ruke Orhorhoro-6-5, 230-River Rouge-Jr.
OL-Mahdi Hazime-6-3, 280-Dearborn Fordson-Jr.
DB-WR-Keshawn Stanley-6-0, 175-Wyandotte-Soph.
DT-Michael Sessoms-6-0, 310-Ecorse-Soph.
DT-Mouhammad Mehdi-6-3, 275-Dearborn Fordson-Jr.
DE-Aeron Latham-6-2, 230-Dearborn Divine Child-Jr.
RB-Steven Walker-5-9, 170-Canton-Jr.
LB-Marvin Ham-6-1, 215-Belleville-Jr.
TE-Jaden Littlefield-6-3, 220-Belleville-Soph.
PK-QB-Drew Alsobrooks-6-1, 180-Livonia Churchill-Jr.
OG-C-Jake Swirple-6-2, 270-Livonia Franklin-Soph.
WR-Byron Wilkinson-6-3, 200-Woodhaven-Jr.
WR-Avery Grenier-6-0, 180-Livonia Churchill-Jr.
OL-Mohamed Saad-6-4, 270-Dearborn-Jr.
OL-DT-Derion Gould-6-4, 275-Redford Union-Jr.
PK-Josh Gilmour-5-9, 160-Plymouth Salem-Jr.
TE-Robert Bell-6-5, 225-Redford Thurston-Jr.
DE-LB-Mohamed Basma-6-3, 225-Dearborn Fordson-Jr.
OT-Ali Jaber-6-7, 335-Dearborn Fordson-Jr.

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

Fittingly, Week 9 the best of the entire season

Wow, what a way to end the regular season with a bang. Week 9 had so many incredible games, from match-ups featuring undefeated teams, to upsets of state-ranked squads to some of the best rivalries in the state of Michigan. What a perfect ending to what has been an outstanding regular season in the Great Lakes State. Let's hope the ensuing state playoffs are every bit as exciting and dramatic.

Week 9 top games- 

Coldwater (6-3) 24, No. 6 Traverse City West (8-1) 9
Battle Creek Harper Creek (9-0) 41, Whitehall (6-3) 20
Battle Creek Pennfield (4-5) 28, Olivet (8-1) 21
Alma (7-2) 39, Big Rapids (3-6) 33
Boyne City (9-0) 19, Traverse City St. Francis (8-1) 13
Detroit King (8-1) 21, No. 7 Detroit East English Village (8-1) 0
Calumet (6-3) 20, Gladstone (7-2) 16
Ithaca (9-0) 38, Carrollton (6-3) 6
Clarkston (7-2) 23, Farmington Hills Harrison (6-3) 12
Warren Fitzgerald (7-2) 39, Clinton Township Clintondale (7-2) 34
No. 4 East Grand Rapids (9-0) 13, Grand Rapids South Christian (7-2) 7
Davison (8-1) 30, Flint Powers Catholic (5-4) 9
Frankenmuth (9-0) 20, Freeland (6-3) 7
Haslett (7-2) 24, Petoskey (3-6) 21
Kingsford (7-1) 21, Escanaba (7-2) 14
Michigan Center (8-1) 45, Reading (7-2) 43
St. Joseph (7-2) 17, Portage Central (7-2) 14
Waterford Mott (8-1) 42, No. 9 Fenton (8-1) 28
Dearborn Divine Child (8-1) 34, Ann Arbor Gabriel Richard (7-2) 20
Warren DeLaSalle (7-2) 35, Detroit Catholic Central (5-4) 14
No. 5 Belleville (9-0) 27, Temperance Bedford (6-3) 24 (OT)
Montague (9-0) 34, Muskegon Catholic Central (7-1) 10

Rivalry games- (these are truly some of the best in Michigan)

No. 8 Zeeland East (9-0) 28, Zeeland West (6-3) 8
Bay City Central (5-4) 48, Bay City Western (0-9) 18
Midland (8-1) 49, Midland Dow (7-2) 21
Port Huron Northern (8-1) 21, Port Huron (4-5) 7
Saginaw (2-7) 14, Saginaw Arthur Hill (0-9) 6
Madison Heights Madison (9-0) 42, Madison Heights Lamphere (5-4) 14
Troy (6-3) 20, Troy Athens (0-9) 19
Walled Lake Western (8-1) 42, Walled Lake Central (5-4) 0
Holland (6-3) 46, Holland Christian (3-6) 22
South Lyon East (4-5) 34, South Lyon (1-8) 27
Livonia Franklin (7-2) 35, Livonia Stevenson (5-4) 21
East Lansing (7-2) 21, Okemos (5-4) 7
Hancock (7-2) 21, Houghton (1-8) 0
Ludington (4-5) 29, Mason County Central (2-7) 28
Oscoda (6-3) 28, Tawas (2-6) 13
No. 3 Utica Eisenhower (9-0) 38, Utica Ford (2-7) 20

Updated state rankings- 

1. Muskegon (9-0)
2. Grand Rapids Catholic Central (9-0)
3. Utica Eisenhower (9-0)
4. East Grand Rapids (9-0)
5. Belleville (9-0)
6. Zeeland East (9-0)
7. Grand Rapids Forest Hills Central (9-0)
8. Montague (9-0)
9. Detroit King (8-1)
10. (tie) Wyoming Kelloggsville (9-0),
Wyandotte (9-0)
Other top teams- Battle Creek Harper Creek (9-0), Frankenmuth (9-0), Ithaca (9-0), Saginaw Nouvel Catholic (9-0), Boyne City (9-0), Grand Ledge (8-1), DeWitt (8-1), Saline (7-1), Fenton (8-1), Holland West Ottawa (8-1), Walled Lake Western (8-1), Warren DeLaSalle (7-2), Dearborn Divine Child (8-1), Davison (8-1), Rochester Adams (8-1), Muskegon Mona Shores (8-1), Detroit East English (8-1), Muskegon Catholic Central (7-1), Traverse City West (8-1), Midland (8-1), Traverse City St. Francis (8-1), Waterford Mott (8-1).


Top first round playoff games-

Canton (8-1) at Saline (7-1)- Div. 1
Lowell (6-3) at Flushing (7-2)- Div. 2
Zeeland West (6-3) at Zeeland East (9-0)- Div. 3
Grand Rapids Christian (7-2) at DeWitt (8-1)- Div. 3
St. Joseph (7-2) at Stevensville-Lakeshore (8-1)- Div. 3
Benton Harbor (5-4) at Edwardsburg (8-1)- Div. 4
Hancock (7-2) at Menominee (6-3)- Div. 5
Lansing Catholic (7-2) at Olivet (8-1)- Div. 5
Almont (7-2) at Frankenmuth (9-0)- Div. 5
Maple City Glen Lake (6-2) at Boyne City (9-0)- Div. 6
Homer (6-3) at Cassopolis (8-1)- Div. 7
Newberry (6-2) at Frankfort (6-2)- Div. 8

Big Ten, where are you? Northville's Jake Moody -- offer him

Um, I don't know about you, but besides the offensive and defensive lines, arguably the most important part of a winning football team is special teams -- more specifically a talented and accurate kicker.

Besides Quinn Nordin (Rockford native, ranked No. 1 kicker in nation coming out of high school, currently U-M's kicker), in the past few years the state of Michigan hasn't produced a better all-around kicker than Northville senior Jake Moody. This guy is absolutely INCREDIBLE. He is equal to, in my opinion, Nordin and would instantly (as Nordin has done for U-M in his first season) settle the kicking situation at any big-time Division I school for the next four years.

Big Ten, where are you on this guy?? Michigan already has Nordin, so it's not really in the market for a kicker. Michigan State? Hello... C'mon Spartans, get on this guy. Stop being so lazy and slow-footed when it comes to offering this kid. Indiana? Illinois? Heck, Penn State, Ohio State, Wisconsin?? Clemson, 'Bama, Texas, Oklahoma?? Hello, college football...

How could any college football program worth its salt not be banging down Moody's proverbial front door? Let's see, is it because Moody has ONLY kicked three field goals this season of 50 yards or more, including a 55-yarder, 57-yarder and a 58-yarder (second longest in state history)? Maybe top-flight college football programs in the Big Ten and throughout the country aren't interested in Moody because he's a perfect 25-of-25 on PATs this season or because he's 12-of-17 kicking field goals this year, with three of those misses coming from beyond 50 yards? That has to be it, right? Can't be missing from beyond 50 yards as a high school senior -- that's a deal-breaker (that's sarcasm, by the way). Is he not highly recruited because of his 41-yard punting average? Is that the reason why? No, I'm sure he's not being recruited and offered by Top 25-level programs because of his annoying habit of CRUSHING kickoffs 38 out of 40 times this season into the opponent's end zone, including one especially nauseating (sarcasm, remember) instance this year when he blasted a kickoff from his own 20-yard line -- 80 YARDS -- (yes, 80 yards, off a tee) into the opponent's end zone -- just because he can. I'm sure that's why he hasn't been offered by MSU, Illinois, Indiana, OSU, Wisconsin and on and on and on. True kicking talent is sooooo overrated and over-recruited, am I right? (again, sarcasm)

I've never blogged about a kicker before (and no I'm not related to this kid, though I am "Moody" sometimes -- ba dum, dum), but this kid is the real deal and has been since he was kicking 50-yard FGs as a sophomore for Northville. What's wrong with recruiters in this state (CMU has reportedly offered, though) and throughout Big Ten country? Crazy... (head shake, eye roll, the whole nine yards).