Top 10 Offensive Line Prospects for Michigan's Class of 2020

There truly is no better state in the Midwest for offensive line recruiting than Michigan. Year in and year out, the Great Lakes State churns out high-level, big-time Division I O-line talent. The class of 2020 is no exception, with nationally ranked players and Big Ten-level blockers throughout the state of Michigan. This list is fluid and players will be added as the months go by and we near the kickoff of the 2019 high school football season. That being said, here are the Great Lakes State's top 10 offensive line recruits/prospects for the class of 2020 --

Michigan's Top 10 Offensive Linemen for the Class of 2020 -- 

1. Justin Rogers--6-4, 305-OT-OG-C-Oak Park -- For the class of 2019, the state of Michigan had two offensive linemen (Devontae Dobbs-6-4, 295-Belleville-verbal to MSU and Logan Brown-6-7, 310-East Kentwood-verbal to Wisconsin) ranked in the nation's top five. For the Great Lakes State's class of 2020, Rogers is also widely regarded as a top five offensive line prospect nationally. Just goes to show what an incredible state Michigan is when it comes to developing and churning out big-time Division I-level offensive line recruits every year. Rogers, in my opinion, could play any line position at the next level and excel. Aggressive, powerful and skilled technique-wise and footwork-wise, Rogers is the total package. He's also a top recruit on the defensive side of the football as a D-tackle. Has offers from basically every college program in the country including Alabama, Clemson, Georgia, Michigan State, Ohio State, Iowa, Michigan, Auburn, Texas, USC, Penn State, LSU, Oklahoma, Florida and Florida State.
2. Keegan Smith-6-4, 285-OT-OG-C-Jackson Lumen Christi -- While Rogers grabs all the highlights and publicity nationally and within the state of Michigan (as he should), my personal favorite O-lineman in the Great Lakes State is Smith. A starter as a sophomore on the Titans' Division 6 state championship squad last season, Smith is arguably the best run-blocker in the Midwest. Lumen Christi is a power-running team and Smith is a pancake-block highlight reel. Physical, intense, relentless and highly-skilled as a blocker, Smith, like Rogers, in my opinion, could play any position along the offensive line at the next level. Comes from one of the top mid-sized football programs in the nation, Smith is a Big Ten-level guy, who right now is under-recruited, which puzzles me to no end. Only offer so far is Bowling Green State. C'mon, Big Ten, are you kidding me?
3. Tate Mackenzie-6-7, 305-OT-Ypsilanti Lincoln -- I've been high on this guy since his sophomore season. Though NFL-size now, Mackenzie is an incredible athlete with basketball feet and run-blocking skills uncanny for a player his height and weight. A varsity basketball player as a sophomore, at a school with a strong hoops program, Mackenzie is an ideal left tackle prospect as a pass blocker, but also as a powerful run blocker. So far, Toledo offer. Do I need to say it? Big Ten...??
4. Grant Toutant-6-7, 290-OT-Warren DeLaSalle -- Another kid who has stood out since he was a sophomore (and not just because of his mammoth size). Like Mackenzie, Toutant has excellent, athletic feet for a big man and uses his gigantic wingspan effectively in pass blocking. Plays for perennial state powerhouse Warren DeLaSalle, the defending Division 2 state champion, and competes week in and week out against some of the best high school football programs in the country in the Detroit Catholic League. Penn State, Pittsburgh, Wisconsin offers.
5. Evan Egan-6-8, 325-OT-Durand -- Another kid that isn't receiving much publicity statewide, in my opinion. A guy from a small town just west of Flint, Egan is a big man with good feet and mobility. Runs a 5.1 40. Plays basketball for Durand. Though no offers yet, MSU, CMU are recruiting.
6. Dallas Fincher-6-4, 280-OG-East Kentwood -- A bruising, physical blocker in the trenches for East Kentwood, Fincher is ranked in the top 10 nationally at his position. Fincher's father played at Michigan State as an offensive lineman in the 1980s. Fincher has offers from MSU, Wisconsin, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, U-M, Minnesota, Ohio State, Pittsburgh, Purdue among many others.
7. Deondre Buford-6-5, 265-OT-Detroit King -- I love this kid. Will be a three-year starter at national powerhouse King. Good mobility for an offensive lineman, Buford has long arms and good athleticism. Buford's ceiling is as high (or higher) than any player on this top 10 list. Has offers from Iowa, Purdue, Kentucky, Pittsburgh, Iowa State, West Virginia.
8. Jake Swirple-6-2, 275-C-Livonia Franklin- A starter at center for last season's Division 2 state runner-up, Swirple is a natural talent in the middle for the Patriots. With a sturdy, wide base and strong feet and power, Swirple moves whoever is in front of him. Swirple plays with excellent bend, balance and leverage. Also one of the state's top heavyweight wrestlers, Swirple placed eighth at last year's D-I (big school) state meet. He ended up with a 49-10 overall record.
9. Connor Wolfgang-6-4, 275-OT-OG-Macomb Dakota -- Powerful and explosive, Wolfgang is a high-level prospect for Dakota, one of suburban Detroit's top high school football programs. A dominating run blocker, Wolfgang is a bit under the radar at the moment, but I believe he will soon start receiving more recruiting buzz. A left tackle for the Cougars, Wolfgang could also play guard at the next level.
10. (TIE) Josh Priebe-6-5, 285-OT-OG-Edwardsburg -- Priebe will be a four-year starter for the Eddies, one of the best mid-sized football programs in Michigan, if not the Midwest. With Priebe in the starting line-up, Edwardsburg, a small town in the southwest corner of Michigan near the Indiana border, has an overall record of 34-3 the past three years. Last season, behind Priebe, the Eddies finished as Division 4 state runner-up. A talented, all-around lineman, Priebe can play any position up front for Edwardsburg. Currently has offers from CMU and Toledo. Priebe is a Big Ten talent and is also receiving interest from Michigan State, Michigan, Nebraska and Northwestern, along with Notre Dame. Kyle Rose-6-3, 275-OG-C-Vicksburg- Though playing left tackle for Vicksburg, a small town just south of Kalamazoo in southwest Michigan, I see Rose as a pulling guard or center at the D-I level. Like a lot of the players on this list, Rose is an outstanding, all-around athlete. A starter on the Bulldogs' varsity basketball team as a sophomore, Rose was so good on the court, the Kalamazoo Gazette named him one of the area's top underclassmen hoops players last season. On the football field, Rose uses that basketball quickness and footwork to dominate opposing defensive linemen. I project Rose to be a 6-3, 315 interior lineman at the next level, with a quickness and strength combination not seen by many players his size. Under recruited at the moment, but Big Ten all the way.

Other Top Offensive Linemen for Michigan's Class of 2020 (all are D-I recruits) -- 
Seth Keipert-6-7, 275-OT-Roscommon, Grant Smith-6-6, 290-OT-Walled Lake Northern, Luke Newman-6-4, 255-OT-Birmingham Brother Rice, James Toles-6-3, 315-OG-Detroit Mumford, Tanner Breitwisch-6-3, 265-OG-Hart, Zane Jaska-6-4, 250-OT-Sterling Heights Parkway Christian, Brady Osburn-6-6, 250-OT-Tecumseh, Diesel Rose-6-3, 270-OG-Grant, Kellen Morrison-6-3, 290-OG-Warren Woods-Tower, Alex Holmes-6-2, 285-OG-C-Corunna, D'Andre Mills-Ellis-6-1, 300-C-Muskegon, Scott Spicer-6-4, 240-OT-Concord, Sherrod Green-6-1, 310-OG-Belleville (Morgan State offer), Caleb Outman-6-7, 285-OT-McBain, Nolan Garrard-6-6, 280-OT-Niles.

PHOTO -- Livonia Franklin junior center Jake Swirple (6-2, 275) is one of the top offensive line prospects in the state of Michigan for the class of 2020. Last season, as a sophomore, Swirple, ranked the No. 8 offensive lineman in the Great Lakes State for his class year, helped lead the Patriots to a Division 2 state runner-up finish.

PHOTO -- Jackson Lumen Christi junior tackle Keegan Smith (6-4, 285) is the No. 2-ranked offensive line prospect in the state of Michigan for the class of 2020. Behind Smith, a starter as a sophomore, the Titans captured the Division 6 state championship last season.

PHOTO -- Warren DeLaSalle junior offensive tackle Grant Toutant (6-7, 290) towers over his teammates during action this season. The No. 4-ranked offensive lineman in the state of Michigan for the class of 2020, Toutant currently holds offers from Penn State, Pittsburgh and Wisconsin.

Michigan's Top 10 Kickers and Punters for the Class of 2019

The state of Michigan has always been one of the country's best when it comes to producing and developing top place-kicking and punting talent. From former NFL All-Pro and Pro Bowl kickers and punters such as Chester Marcol (Imlay City, Hillsdale, NFL), Pete Stoyanovich (Dearborn Heights Crestwood, Indiana, NFL) and Ralf Mojsiejenko (Bridgman, MSU, NFL) to current D-I kickers Quinn Nordin (Rockford, U-M), Pierson Cooke (Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood, Vanderbilt), Cam Shook (Grosse Pointe South, Navy), Ryan Tice (Saline, CMU), Jake Moody (Northville, U-M), Ben Fee (Orchard Lake St. Mary's, Navy) and Tyler Hunt (Gobles, MSU), the Great Lakes State is stocked full with skillful kickers. Year in and year out, the state of Michigan churns out multiple Division I-level kickers and punters -- the class of 2019 is no different. Here are the top 10 kickers and punters for Michigan's class of 2019.

Top 10 kickers and punters for Michigan's class of 2019 (all are D-I-level players) -- 

1. Jackson Griskie-5-11, 185-Macomb Lutheran North-Two-time Detroit All-Catholic League selection.  
2. Luke Elzinga-6-4, 200-Grand Rapids Christian- Named to the AP Division 1-2 All-State first team and the Grand Rapids Press Dream Team as a junior, averaging 46 yards per punt. Ranked the No. 8 punter in the nation.
3. Evan Morris-6-5, 195-Ovid-Elsie-Named to AP Division 5-6 All-State first team as a junior. Made 12-of-16 FGs, including a long of 50 yards, made 22 PATs and recorded 24 touchbacks on kickoffs last year. Verbal to Michigan State
4. Drew Alsobrooks-6-1, 180-Livonia Churchill-Outstanding all-around athlete for Chargers. One of the top kickers in Michigan, but will play baseball in Mid-American Conference for CMU.
5. Tristan Mattson-5-11, 170-Clarkston-Has kicked 45- and 42-yard field goals this season for the Wolves. Verbal to Buffalo
6. Micah Sonnenberg-6-0, 180-Brooklyn Columbia Central- A dual sport star, Sonnenberg could play Division I college soccer or football. Sonnenberg has 59 goals this season on the soccer field (ninth all-time for one season in state history) and 160 goals in his career (sixth all-time). On the football field this year he kicked a school record 48-yard field goal.
7. Ethan Martysz-6-0, 185-Marquette- Besides being a strong kicker, Martysz is also one of the best wide receivers in the state. Last season, Martysz was named to the All-Upper Peninsula Dream Team as both a receiver and kicker.
8. Alec Thelen-5-11, 175-Pewamo-Westphalia-Truly one of the best kickers in the Midwest, Thelen is a small school standout with a big leg. Helped lead P-W to the Division 7 state championship last season. This year, while playing quarterback for the top-ranked Pirates, Thelen also handles the kicking duties. This season he has kicked a school-record 50-yard field goal and a 49-yarder, while punting for a 46-yard average. Last year, Thelen was selected to the AP Division 7-8 All-State team.
9. Jayce Bourcier-6-5, 190-Freeland- Has one of the strongest legs in the country. Last season, Bourcier boomed a 79-yard punt (seventh longest in state history) and a 58-yard punt. A rugby-style punter, Bourcier averaged 46 yards per punt as a junior. He had nine punts placed inside the opponents' 20-yard line last season en route to AP Division 5-6 All-State honors.
10. Marshall Fox-5-10, 195-Elk Rapids- Four-year starter for Elk Rapids as a kicker. Last season, Fox was named to the Traverse City Record-Eagle All-Region squad, making 28-of-29 PATs and 7-of-10 FGs, including a long of 42 yards. Seventy-one percent of Fox's kickoffs reached the end zone last year.  (TIE) Josh Castillo-5-10, 180-Wyandotte-Last season, Castillo was 44-of-47 on PATs and 7-of-10 on FGs, including a long of 39 yards.

Other top kicker and punters for Michigan's class of 2019 (all are D-I prospects) -- 
Jeremy Wiersman-5-10, 160-Allendale, Gabe Doree-5-10, 190-Trenton, J.T. Turner-5-11, 165-Saline, Dayne Weldy-6-1, 185-Grand Rapids Christian, Antonio Buhrfiend-5-9, 175-St. Joseph, Josh Gilmour-5-9, 160-Plymouth Salem, Cody Fick-5-9, 185-Lapeer (has kicked 49-yard FG this season).

PHOTO -- Pewamo-Westphalia senior Alec Thelen (5-11, 175) is one of the top kickers/punters in the state of Michigan, if not the Midwest. Also the Pirates' quarterback, this season Thelen, ranked No. 8 in the Great Lakes State, has kicked a school-record 50-yard field goal, while punting for a 46-yard average. Last year, Thelen helped lead P-W to the Division 7 state championship.


-- Up next, I'll start listing my top 10 position rankings for the state of Michigan's class of 2020 and class of 2021.

Michigan's Top 10 Defensive Back Recruits for the Class of 2019

Well. as usual, life happened and I've been away from my blog. Anyhow, let's get back to it now. Here are the top 10 defensive backs for the class of 2019 in the state of Michigan. The Great Lakes State every year produces big-time, high-level Division I college football talent in the secondary. Besides the offensive line and wide receiver, I think the position group where the state of Michigan produces the most talent each and every season is in the secondary.

Just off the top of my head, current NFL defensive backs from the Great Lakes State include Avonte Maddox (Detroit King, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia Eagles), Kavon Frazier (Grand Rapids Christian, CMU, Dallas Cowboys), Jeff Heath (Lake Orion, Saginaw Valley State, Dallas Cowboys), Darius Phillips (Dearborn Heights Robichaud, WMU, Cincinnati Bengals), Jourdan Lewis (Detroit Cass Tech, U-M, Dallas Cowboys), Desmond King (Detroit East English Village/Detroit Crockett, Iowa, Los Angeles Chargers), Josh Jones (Walled Lake Western, North Carolina State, Green Bay Packers), Delano Hill (Detroit Cass Tech, U-M, Seattle Seahawks) and Brandon Carr (Flint Carman-Ainsworth, Grand Valley State, Baltimore Ravens). Tony Lippett (Detroit East English Village/Detroit Crockett, MSU, Miami Dolphins) was a starter for the Dolphins at cornerback before suffering an injury last season.

Of course, throughout the decades, the state of Michigan has produced some of the game's greatest defensive backs including, Randy Logan (Detroit Northern, U-M, Pro Bowl safety for the Philadelphia Eagles), Bill Simpson (Royal Oak Shrine, MSU, Pro Bowl safety for the Los Angeles Rams and Buffalo Bills), Mike Bass (Ypsilanti, U-M, led the NFC in interceptions with eight in 1971, returned a fumble for a TD for a record 49 yards in Super Bowl VII and was named one of the 70 greatest Washington Redskins of all-time), Mike Harden (Detroit Central, U-M, captain of the Denver Broncos' famed "Orange Crush" defense, picked off 38 passes during his career, returning four for touchdowns), Todd Lyght (Flint Powers Catholic, Notre Dame, All-Pro cornerback with Los Angeles Rams, won a Super Bowl and collegiate national championship, current DB coach for the Fighting Irish), Dave Whitsell (Shelby, Indiana, All-Pro cornerback, led NFL in interceptions with 10 in 1967 while playing for the New Orleans Saints, member of the New Orleans Saints Hall of Fame), Terry McDaniel (Saginaw, Tennessee, five-time Pro Bowl selection, four-time All-Pro, 35 career interceptions, returned six interceptions for TDs) and Paul Krause (Burton-Bendle, Iowa, started four Super Bowls for the Minnesota Vikings, holds NFL record for interceptions in a career with 81, arguably the greatest safety to ever play the game, eight-time Pro Bowl selection, enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame).

All that being said, here are the next generation of outstanding defensive backs from the state of Michigan. Here are the Great Lakes State's top 10 defensive back prospects for the class of 2019.

Michigan's top 10 defensive back recruits for the class of 2019 -- 

1. Julian Barnett-6-2, 195-Belleville -- He's also my No. 1 wide receiver prospect for Michigan's class of 2019. Arguably the best two-way talent in the Midwest, Barnett could play either WR or DB at the next level. With 4.5 speed and a tough, physical nature, Barnett is a handful on either side of the football. I can see Barnett gaining 20-25 pounds in college and lining up as a hybrid linebacker/strong safety-type guy and being extremely effective as a pass defender, run-stopper or a devastating pass rusher. He's an outstanding all-around football player. Verbal to Michigan State.
2. Marvin Grant-6-2, 205-Detroit King -- One of my favorite players in the state of Michigan. This kid just has "it." Maybe the best all-around, natural football talent in the Great Lakes State, Grant is a smooth, skillful player for the Crusaders. A bone-crushing tackler and ball hawk at safety, Grant is a three-year starter for national powerhouse King. Was hoping he'd stay in-state, but he's Big Ten all the way nonetheless. Verbal to Purdue. 
3. Rod Heard-5-10, 180-Farmington Hills Harrison -- Three-year starter at legendary Harrison program, Heard is also an explosive tailback prospects. A lockdown-type cornerback, Heard could also play safety at the next level. Led the Hawks to a Division 3 state runner-up finish last season. Has 4.5 speed and excellent vision, quickness and instincts. Verbal to Northwestern. 
4. M.J. Griffin-6-2, 185-Saline -- Great size and speed combination, Griffin is a three-year starter for the Hornets, a program which has produced plenty of D-I talent as of late (Josh Jackson-QB-Va Tech, Bryce Wolma-TE-Arizona, Dimitri Douglas-OL-Michigan State). Also a sure-handed, deep-threat receiver for Saline, Griffin uses his 4.5 speed and height to overwhelm opponents, especially on the defensive side of the football. He's a Big Ten talent for sure, but opted to play out of the conference. Verbal to Temple. 
5. Josh DeBerry-6-1, 175-Warren DeLaSalle -- Spark plug and catalyst for DeLaSalle on both sides of scrimmage. Exciting, explosive skill-set, DeBerry is a home run-type wide receiver for the Pilots and an "opponents just don't throw his way"-type cornerback. I like him as a shutdown cornerback at the next level. Good hands and burst, DeBerry led DeLaSalle to the Division 2 state championship last season. Michigan, Michigan State where are you on this guy? Holds offers from Northwestern, Wake Forest, Boston College, Colorado State, Iowa, Kentucky, Iowa State.
6. Aidan Harrison-6-3, 190-New Lothrop -- One of the best players nobody seems to be talking about. Harrison is a tremendous athlete, first and foremost. A basketball and track and field standout, Harrison has high jumped 6-foot-6. With his long strides, Harrison can cover a lot of ground quickly as a safety and, of course, out-leap most, if not all, opponents for 50-50 balls in the air. Verbal to Missouri.
7. Kobe Myers-6-2, 185-Waterford Mott -- A long, rangy cornerback for the Corsairs. Very fluid athlete who also is a standout wide receiver. Like many on this list, has good height/weight for a defensive back and will only get bigger and stronger at the next level. Has offers from Iowa and Syracuse among many others.
8. Kortez Toles-6-3, 185-Grand Blanc -- Overwhelming force at cornerback for the Bobcats. Uses height and length to smother opposing receivers. Has quickness and ball skills of a high-level DB prospect. As a corner, Toles reminds me of Tony Lippett (Detroit native, started at corner for the Miami Dolphins), at least with his height and mobility. At the moment, not receiving the recruiting publicity I believe he deserves. Has offers from Bowling Green State, Central Michigan, Cornell and Morgan State. Indiana, Maryland, Illinois, Rutgers, etc. where are you on this kid?
9. Jordan Anderson-5-11, 190-Harper Woods -- Was named first-team All-Detroit by the Detroit News last season while playing for Detroit East English Village. Had 43 tackles and six interceptions as a cornerback and rushed for 1,210 yards and 14 touchdowns as a junior. A game-changer on either side of the football, Anderson is just a "football player." He could be successful as a RB at the next level, but I like him as a press cover, in-your-face cornerback. Verbal to Bowling Green State.
10. Daraun McKinney-5-10, 185-River Rouge -- The ultimate playmaker, McKinney is lightning in a bottle and one of the most explosive and exciting players in the state of Michigan. McKinney makes plays in all three phases of the game. A sticky cornerback and sure-handed receiver, McKinney is truly gifted as a kick and punt returner. Last season, McKinney returned seven kickoffs for touchdowns and five punts for touchdowns setting state records for both. Though the Big Ten wanted him (Indiana offer), McKinney will play in the Mid-American Conference. Verbal to Northern Illinois. 

Other top DB recruits for Michigan's class of 2019 (all are D-I prospects at some level) -- 
Art Herndon-5-11, 170-St. Joseph, Bradley Dunn-6-0, 175-Saugatuck (Division 7-8 All-State first team as junior, led Indians to D-7 state runner-up finish last season) , Tyrese Hunt-Thompson-5-11, 170-Cassopolis, Jaden Thelen-6-3, 190-Haslett (Lansing State Journal Dream Team pick as junior, three-sport star, four-year varsity football player), Jalen Broussard-6-1, 185-East Grand Rapids, Stephen Bracey-5-9, 165-East Kentwood (Verbal to WMU), Deamonte Clark, 5-9, 170-Wyoming Godwin Heights, Devante Bedford-6-1, 180-Montrose, Josh Kramer-6-0, 185-Lansing Catholic (Lansing State Journal Dream Team and Division 5-6 All-State selection as junior, six interceptions, 50 tackles last year), Noah Smith-6-0, 175-Lansing Everett, Nick Thomas-5-11, 190-Jackson Lumen Christi, Kobe Hayward-6-0, 185-East Lansing, Marcus Fuqua-6-1, 195-Southfield A & T (Verbal to Buffalo), Khalil Dawsey-5-10, 175-Birmingham Groves (Verbal to Harvard), Derrick Hinton-5-10, 170-Auburn Hills Avondale, Xavier Goldsmith-5-9, 170-Farmington Hills Harrison (Verbal to Colorado State), Elija Griffin-5-11, 185-Harper Woods (Verbal to Toledo), Nic Jones-6-1, 170-Southfield A & T (Verbal to Ball State), Javon Kimpson-5-11, 195-Clinton Township Chippewa Valley (Verbal to Miami, OH), Kamal Hadden-6-1, 165-River Rouge (Verbal to CMU), DaRon Gilbert-6-2, 195-Birmingham Brother Rice, Josiah Curry-6-0, 190-Mount Morris, Aaron Herron-6-3, 185-Holton (finished second in D-4 state track and field final in 110-meter hurdles in 14.95 and placed eighth in 100 meters in 11.44), Tahj Chatman-6-1, 185-Ypsilanti Lincoln, Michael Harper-5-11, 180-Anchor Bay, Ormondell Dingle-6-1, 190-Detroit Cass Tech (Verbal to CMU), Koleman Wall-6-3, 200-Muskegon Oakridge, T.J. VanKoevening-6-4, 205-Hudsonville Unity-Christian, Ahmad Gardner-6-2, 175-Detroit King (Verbal to Cincinnati), Jason Fairfield-6-0, 175-Holland West Ottawa (Holland Sentinel All-Area as junior, set school record with seven interceptions last season), Keimonnee Fields-5-9, 175-Waterford Mott, Hunter Delor-6-2, 205-Marysville, Tim Stallworth-6-1, 190-Dearborn Fordson, Rayvon Williamson-6-0, 175-Detroit Community (six interceptions, two returned for touchdowns this season), Zonterio Weekley-5-10, 170-Kalamazoo Central.

PHOTO -- Belleville senior Julian Barnett (6-2, 195) is arguably the best two-way player in the Midwest. A high-level Division I college football prospect at defensive back or wide receiver, Barnett is the No. 1-ranked recruit at both positions in the state of Michigan for the class of 2019. With 4.5 speed, Barnett is a tough, physical competitor on either side of the football. Barnett has verbally committed to Michigan State.

Michigan's Top 10 Linebacker Recruits for the Class of 2019

Once again, the state of Michigan is loaded with linebacker studs either at the inside or outside positions. Michigan's class of 2019 crop of linebackers is dripping with talent from all over the Great Lakes State. From the Upper Peninsula, to the Lake Michigan coastline, to the urban streets of Detroit, the state of Michigan is a must-visit for any resourceful, hard-working Division I college football coach or recruiter looking for impact players at the linebacker spot. Here are the Great Lakes State's top 10 linebacker prospects for the class of 2019 --

Michigan's Top 10 Linebacker Prospects for the Class of 2019 (all are D-I recruits) -- 

1. Jaren Mangham-6-2, 225-MLB-Detroit Cass Tech -- Arguably one of the best two-way prospects in the country, Mangham is also my No. 1-ranked RB recruit for the state of Michigan. I believe if he played LB at the next level he'd be a superstar. But, he's also a game-breaker at RB for the national powerhouse Technicians. A complete football player, Mangham has 4.5 40 speed. Verbal to Colorado. 
2. Lance Dixon-6-2, 210-OLB-West Bloomfield -- A true difference-maker from the linebacker position, Dixon is one of the top players in the Midwest, if not the nation. Blazing fast, Dixon runs a 4.5 40 and finished seventh in the Division 1 (big school) track and field state meet last June in the 200 meters with a time of 22.03. Verbal to Penn State.
3. Ali'Vonta Wallace-6-1, 230-MLB-Muskegon -- I love this kid. A three-year starter for one of the Midwest's top programs, Wallace is seemingly everywhere on the football field. He makes tackles from sideline-to-sideline, using his speed and natural instincts, Wallace is one of the finest overall players in the state of Michigan. Toledo, CMU, WMU, Alabama A & M, EMU offers. Big Ten, where are you on this guy? Kentucky? Pitt? Tennessee?
4. Jacob Wahlberg-6-4, 225-OLB-Muskegon Mona Shores -- Three-year starter for west Michigan power program. With long strides and good speed, Wahlberg is a top-flight athlete. Also a TE prospect, Wahlberg is Big Ten-level, but will play in the MAC. Verbal to WMU.
5. Marcel Lewis-6-1, 220-OLB-Clinton Township Chippewa Valley -- Instinctive, natural football player for suburban Detroit school Chippewa Valley. Running a 4.6 40, Lewis makes plays all over the field for the Big Reds. Verbal to Michigan State. 
6. Marvin Ham-6-2, 225-MLB-Belleville -- Ham is a standout defensive player for a Belleville squad full of high-level D-I recruits. Intense and fast, Ham hits like a freight train. Runs a 4.6 40. Verbal to Boston College. 
7. Boone Bonnema-6-3, 215-OLB-Zeeland East -- Holland Sentinel Defensive Player of the Year as a junior, Bonnema is an outstanding all-around football player. Besides being a tackling machine at linebacker for Zeeland East, Bonnema is also a skilled HB-TE on offense. Last season, he had 103 tackles, including 16 TFL and two blocked punts. Verbal to WMU.
8. Brock Horne-6-2, 225-MLB-Romeo -- An old-school middle linebacker, Horne is a hard-hitting, sure tackler for Romeo, a large school in Detroit's northern suburbs. A three-year starter for the Bulldogs, Horne is a high-level D-I recruit. Iowa State, Princeton, Harvard, Dartmouth, Bowling Green State, Buffalo, CMU offers.
9. Leonard Henry-6-4, 215-OLB-Grand Blanc -- A physical, rugged player at LB for the Flint-area Bobcats, Henry is an imposing physical specimen on the football field. Long and lengthy with good speed, Henry is a guy I project to 6-4, 230 at the next level. Cincinnati offer.
10. (tie)  Logan Guthrie-6-2, 220-OLB-Alpena -- Super-athletic two-way star for Alpena. One of northern Michigan's top D-I prospects, Guthrie runs a 4.6 40. Verbal to CMU. Luke Terrian-6-3, 220-OLB-Kingsford -- Named to the Upper Peninsula Dream Team as a junior, Terrian is my No. 2-ranked overall prospect in the Upper Peninsula and the top-ranked LB recruit above the Mackinac Bridge. Also Kingsford's QB, Terrian is a three-sport star, standing out also in basketball and baseball for the Flivvers. Maurice Hutchinson-6-2, 215-MLB-Sterling Heights Parkway Christian -- A bit of a sleeper in Michigan, Hutchinson is the best player out of suburban Detroit's Parkway Christian since the late RB Zurlon Tipton (CMU, NFL). A big-time thumper from the linebacker position, Hutchinson is also a powerful, bruising running back. A definite high-level D-I recruit, Hutchinson could play either LB or RB at the next level.

Other Top Linebacker Prospects for Michigan's Class of 2019 (all are D-I recruits) --
Micah Cretsinger-6-1, 225-OLB-Jackson (tough to keep out of the Top 10, combines size and speed and is a high-level D-I prospect), Traven Van Oss-6-0, 210-MLB-Three Rivers (runs a 4.6 40, four-year starter, 315 bench press, 55 tackles, 13 TFL, two sacks last year), James Ester-6-3, 230-MLB-Detroit Cass Tech, Devin Nicholson-6-3, 210-OLB-Detroit Cass Tech (Verbal to EMU), Odin Soffredine-6-1, 210-MLB-Traverse City Central, Hugh Brand-6-3, 235-OLB-Harrison, Clarence Gasket-6-0, 210-OLB-Orchard Lake St. Mary's, Rich Miller-6-1, 215-MLB-Detroit King (Detroit News first team All-Detroit last year, 69 tackles, 10 TFL last season as junior, Verbal to Buffalo), Dayone Smith-6-1, 235-MLB-Detroit Western (Detroit News second team All-Detroit as junior), Devin Campbell-6-1, 220-MLB-Warren DeLaSalle (Detroit News first team All-East as junior, 81 tackles last year, helped lead DeLaSalle to D-2 state championship last season), Timmy Eising-6-2, 220-OLB-Berrien Springs, Bryce Pelko-6-4, 215-OLB-Sterling Heights Parkway Christian (also talented TE prospect, top hoops player, as well), James Miller-6-1, 220-MLB-Gaylord, Curtis Vogel-6-0, 220-MLB-Deckerville (AP 8-man All-State first team as junior, 99 tackles, five sacks, two fumble recoveries, one interception, led Deckerville to 8-man Division 1 state runner-up spot last season), Miles Mcleod-6-1, 210-MLB--Lake City, Boomer Perry-5-11, 205-MLB-Michigan Center (four-year varsity player), Ross Bolman-6-1, 215-MLB-Zeeland West (Holland Sentinel All-Area as junior, 16 TFL last season), Matt Bilski-5-10, 215-MLB-Grand Rapids West Catholic, Aiden Tate-6-0, 230-MLB-Ann Arbor Skyline (three-year starter, 325 squat, 225 bench press), Nate Stone-6-2, 220-MLB-Frankenmuth, Ricky Williamson-6-0, 215-OLB-Carrollton, Jeremiah Major-6-1, 245-MLB-Macomb Dakota, Garrett Plate-6-2, 220-MLB-Jackson County Parma Western, Ben Zardus-6-2, 215-MLB-Birmingham Brother Rice.

PHOTO -- West Bloomfield's Lance Dixon (6-2, 210) is the No. 2-ranked linebacker prospect in the state of Michigan for the class of 2019. With 4.5 speed and a nonstop motor, Dixon helped lead the Lakers to a Division 1 state runner-up finish last season. Dixon is verbally committed to Penn State. Photo by Tanya Moutzalias/MLive.com.

Michigan's Top 10 Defensive Line Prospects for the Class of 2019

Like the offensive line, the defensive line group in Michigan's class of 2019 is one of the best in the nation. Every player on this list is an explosive, impactful, disruptive force with Big Ten-level size and talent. When the No. 5-ranked (yes, No. 5-ranked) defensive lineman in the Great Lakes State is verbally committed to national power Clemson, you know the D-line talent level in the state of Michigan for 2019 is stacked with elite players from top to bottom. Here are the state of Michigan's top 10 defensive line prospects for the class of 2019 --


Top 10 Defensive Linemen for Michigan's Class of 2019 -- (all are D-I recruits)

1. Michael Fletcher-6-6, 245-Flint Carman-Ainsworth-Incredible athletic talent, with elite explosiveness off the edge. Fletcher received Division I offers in both football and basketball. Very driven young man, who comes from an athletic family. Brother Dustin (6-3, 210) is, in my opinion, the state of Michigan's No. 1-ranked QB for the class of 2020. Fletcher is a sack-machine for the Cavaliers. I project Fletcher to be 6-6, 270-275 and, with his long wingspan, basketball feet, coordination and quickness, to be an absolute beast coming off the edge at the next level. Verbal to Michigan State.
2. Mazi Smith-6-3, 305-East Kentwood- A run-plugger of the highest order. Smith has a strong motor for a player his size and is practically unblockable at the point of attack when the lights go on. Good agility for a big kid, Smith has the look and feel of former Alabama All-American and current Detroit Lion DT A'Shawn Robinson. Verbal to Michigan.
3. Spencer Brown-6-6, 290-Walled Lake Western- Brown is my No. 5-ranked offensive lineman for Michigan's class of 2019, but he's also D-I-level good on the defensive side of the ball -- so I'm mentioning him on both of my lists. In fact, I like Brown better on the defensive side of scrimmage. I see him fleshing out to 6-7, 330 in college and being a difference-maker at DT. Despite his overall girth and size, Brown is incredibly nimble-footed and athletic. Big-time talent. Verbal to Michigan State.
4. Adam Berghorst-6-7, 270-Zeeland East-Like Spencer Brown, Berghorst is my No. 4-ranked offensive line prospect for Michigan's class of 2019, but he's also a high-level defensive line recruit. Brown and Berghorst are, without a doubt, two of the best two-way linemen prospects in the country. I go back and forth where I see Berghorst playing at the next level. He's a three-sport star (basketball and baseball) so he has excellent feet and athleticism, which would make for an ideal left tackle, but he also has outstanding length and intensity, which would make him an outstanding DE, or if he adds enough weight, an impactful DT. Verbal to Michigan State.
5. Ruke Orhorhoro-6-5, 245-River Rouge- Raw talent, but Orhorhoro's upside could be higher than any player on this list. In deference to the original, NFL running back Christian Okoye, Orhorhoro is also known as the "Nigerian Nightmare." Fluid, athletic player with good, thick size, Orhorhoro, who had 19 sacks a season ago, is an exciting recruit. Suits up for a program which has sent multiple players to D-I schools recently, Orhorhoro projects out to a 6-5, 275 rush defensive end at the next level. Verbal to Clemson.
6. Darius Robinson-6-6, 250-Canton-Most years, Robinson would be ranked a top three D-lineman in Michigan, but with such a stacked class, he's No. 6 on my defensive line list this year. A basketball player, as well, Robinson, like Michael Fletcher, brings that added level of skill, footwork and coordination to the football field because of his talent on the hardwood. With room to grow and add weight at the next level, Robinson is a Big Ten-type prospect. Michigan State, Purdue, Maryland, Rutgers offers inside the Big Ten, while outside the conference, offers include Virginia, Boston College, Colorado and Iowa State.
7. Jalen Hunt-6-3, 235-Belleville- Maybe the most explosive defensive line prospect in the state of Michigan this season. Could play linebacker at the next level because of his speed and agility. Outstanding pass rusher, who with low pad level, gets around taller and slower opposing offensive linemen. Hunt is a one-on-one match-up problem for any pass blocker assigned to stop him from getting to the quarterback. Verbal to Iowa.
8. Devin Baldwin-6-4, 265-Southfield A & T-Strong two-way prospect for Southfield A & T. Also a talented TE, Baldwin, like so many on this list, has excellent athleticism and movement for a player his size. I feel he's a Big Ten-level talent, however, he's decided to compete in the MAC. Verbal to WMU. 
9. Tyrece Woods-6-2, 250-Belleville- I love this kid. He excels in the classroom as much as he does on the gridiron. Could play LB at the next level because of his overall football acumen and quickness. After starting for two years at national powerhouse Detroit King, Woods transferred to Belleville -- another power program in the Great Lakes State. Teams with Jalen Hunt to form arguably the best bookened defensive ends in Michigan, if not the Midwest. Sure tackler with pass rush ability, Woods is just a football player. Verbal to Michigan.
10. (tie) Luke Marsh-6-4, 290-Montague-Will be four-year starter at Montague, a mid-sized school state power, just outside of Muskegon. Could also play center or guard at the next level. Rugged, hard-nosed player on either side of the ball, I like Marsh as a defensive tackle in college. I see him projecting out to a 6-4, 315 D-tackle. Marsh would be a good find/fit for a Big Ten school like Minnesota, Purdue, Rutgers, Illinois or Indiana. Maverick Hansen-6-5, 270-Farmington Hills Harrison- From storied suburban Detroit program, Hansen is another player skilled on both sides of the football. A starter on last season's D-3 state runner-up squad, Hansen is strong as an ox and has the intensity and power to match. Offers from Iowa State and Syracuse, but will play in the MAC. Verbal to CMU. Nathan Ellenbaas-6-3, 240-Williamston-One of the top sleepers in the state of Michigan, Ellenbaas is one of the most disruptive defensive players in the Great Lakes State. A Lansing State Journal Dream Team pick and AP Division 3-4 All-State selection as a junior, Ellenbaas recorded 110 tackles, 21 TFL and 12 sacks last season for the Hornets. This kid is a high-level D-I recruit, in my opinion, and, at the moment, grossly under-recruited. Big Ten? West Virginia? Kansas? Pitt? Where are you guys? Take a look at this kid.

Other Top Defensive Linemen for Michigan's Class of 2019 (all are D-I level, high, mid, low) -- DaShaun Williams-6-4, 285-DT-Ottawa Lake-Whiteford (hard to keep out of the top 10, starter on last year's D-8 state championship team, big-time talent), Dorian Wesley-6-4, 290-DT-Woodhaven, (like DaShaun Williams, Wesley was tough to keep out of the top 10, a rock in the middle for Woodhaven), Donovan King-6-5, 265-DE-Farmington, Max Saylor-6-3, 230-DE-Birmingham Brother Rice (Verbal to CMU), Anthony Pelton-6-4, 245-DE-Reed City (AP Division 5-6 All-State as junior, also talented TE prospect), Jacob Price-6-2, 240-DE-Pinckney (named the preseason No. 1 overall player in Livingston County), Viquente Sandifer-6-4, 240-DT-Grand Rapids Ottawa Hills (a bit of a sleeper statewide, but drawing considerable D-I interest), Markus Bevier-6-2, 285-DT-Ypsilanti, Cole Stout-6-5, 265-DT-Muskegon Mona Shores, Payton Dustin-6-5, 250-DE-Berrien Springs, Azonte Burks-6-2, 245-DE-Flint Beecher, William Jenema-6-2, 240-DE-Marion (AP 8-Man All-State as junior, 73 tackles, 34 TFL, 21 sacks), Ben Geno-6-5, 260-DT-Battle Creek Pennfield (Battle Creek Enquirer All-City first team as junior, 40 tackles, also top-flight OT), Chauncey Ernst-6-1, 240-DE-Madison Heights Madison (AP Division 7-8 All-State as junior), Jared Christian-6-3, 280-DT-Ionia (will be three-year starter), Cole Mitchell-6-2, 260-DT-Rochester Adams (also bruising fullback), Kendall Howard-6-1, 245-DE-Detroit Western (Detroit News All-Detroit second team as junior), Grant Peer-6-2, 295-DT-Gibraltar Carlson, Damond Duncan-6-1, 245-DE-St. Clair Shores Lakeview (Detroit News All-East first team as junior, will be three-year starter), Alex Overla-6-2, 265-DT-Caledonia (top heavyweight wrestler), Spencer Hulst-6-2. 260-DT-Grand Rapids South Christian, Dennis Simmons-6-2, 225-DE-Ann Arbor Pioneer, Ethan Mckenzie-6-2, 240-DE-Whitehall, Dylan Avalos-6-2, 270-DT-Saugatuck (Holland Sentinel All-Area as junior, 65 tackles, eight TFL), McKinley Underwood-6-1, 285-DT-Kalamazoo Central, Davon Sear-6-3, 265-DT-Center Line, Jaylen Henderson-6-5, 260-DE-River Rouge (Kent State offer), Blake Coffell-6-3, 285-DT-Goodrich, Dominique Davidson-6-6, 225-DE-Lansing Everett, Hunter Smith-6-2, 265-DT-Breckenridge, Cade Klimczak-6-2, 235-DE-Rockford, Brett Beyer-6-4, 230-DE-Bay City Central, Brad Wisniewski-6-4, 225-DE-Saline, Danny Files-6-3, 305-DT-Bloomfield Cranbrook-Kingswood (three-sport athlete for Cranbrook, excellent feet for a big kid), Aaron Latham-6-2, 230-DE-Dearborn Divine Child, Mohamed Basma-6-3, 240-DE-Dearborn Fordson, Justin Hudson-6-5, 290-DT-Detroit Delta Prep, Mouhammad Mehdi-6-3, 275-DT-Dearborn Fordson, Jalen Bell-5-11, 285-DT-Belleville (Verbal to Akron), Carson Currie-6-2, 220-DE-Lapeer, Kane Quinlan-6-2, 255-DE-Birmingham Brother Rice, Jaren Johnson-6-4, 260-DT-Warren Lincoln.

PHOTO -- River Rouge defensive end Ruke Orhorhoro (6-5, 245) is a quarterback's worst nightmare. Last season, Orhorhoro, ranked the No. 5 defensive line prospect in the state of Michigan, recorded 19 sacks. With explosive strength and quickness, Orhorhoro is a big-time talent. Orhorhoro is verbally committed to Clemson.

Top 10 Offensive Line Prospects for Michigan's Class of 2019

Wow...all I can say is -- wow. That's it, I'm done. No other words need be said. No, this is my blog so I reckon I should say a little bit more about this year's offensive line class. This upcoming season's crop of offensive line prospects is truly one of the best ever from the state of Michigan -- and that's saying something, since the Great Lakes State is perennially one of the best places to recruit high-level O-linemen in the country. Every single year, the state of Michigan is a hotbed of offensive line recruiting, but this season just might be a step above most other years. And the scary, or well, fantastic thing, if you're one of Michigan's five Division I-playing college football programs, is that next season looks just as good, if not better. I'm not going to step too high onto my proverbial soapbox, but Michigan State, Central Michigan, Western Michigan, Michigan and Eastern Michigan have absolutely ZERO excuses NOT to have outstanding offensive lines every season with the depth of talent at the position in the Great Lakes State. It's truly one position area where all five schools should ALWAYS have the upper hand in their respective conferences simply because of the wealth of talent outside their collective front doors.

Will you please indulge me for a minute? Before I list the top 10 O-line prospects for Michigan's class of 2019, let's take a quick look at, if recruiting in this state was up to par, what MSU's and U-M's offensive lines could/should/would look like in four years or so (including last season's outstanding offensive line class, as well). Granted some of these players could also play defensive line, but the focus here is on offense, so that's the point of emphasis.

Michigan -- (projected heights/weights and schools they eventually signed with or have verbally committed to)

RT-Ryan Hayes-Sr.-6-7, 315-Traverse City, MI -- U-M
RG-Marquan McCall-Sr.-6-4, 330-Oak Park, MI -- Kentucky
C-Tyrone Sampson-Sr.-6-4, 315-Detroit, MI -- Fresno State
LG-Michael Furtney-Sr.-6-5, 315-Sr.-Milan, MI -- Wisconsin
LT-Logan Brown-Jr.-6-7, 320-Jr.-East Kentwood, MI -- Wisconsin

-- And I know Jalen Mayfield-Sr.-6-5, 305-Grand Rapids, MI is at U-M, but I just see him as a D-linemen. Plus, if these guys above were in the Wolverine program, Michigan wouldn't need him on the O-line (at least in my humble opinion).

Michigan State -- (projected heights/weights and schools they eventually signed with or have verbally committed to)

RT-Antwan Reed-Sr.-6-7, 325-Muskegon, MI -- WMU
RG-Anthony Bradford-Jr.-6-5, 340-Muskegon, MI -- LSU
C-Devontae Dobbs-Jr.-6-4, 315-Belleville, MI -- MSU
LG-Spencer Brown-Jr.-6-6, 325-Walled Lake, MI -- MSU
LT-Adam Berghorst-Jr.-6-7, 310-Zeeland, MI -- MSU

Both of these lines, in my opinion, are not only Big Ten championship-level, but national championship-level. If these guys received the proper coaching/teaching, etc., in four years both lines would be out-of-this-world good. Look at the right side of MSU's line -- are you kidding me? Those two guys grew up playing together and would be such a powerful twosome, destroying any defenders in their paths. Hand the ball off to their former Muskegon High teammate, Ladarius Jefferson (6-2, 225-Sr., projected) and as MSU coach Mark Dantonio once so eloquently said, "We grinded meat." Exactly -- that's what would eventually happen to every Spartan opponent if this line were intact in East Lansing. "Beast" Lansing, indeed. Is it any wonder Muskegon was unbeaten, ranked in the top 15 nationally and won a D-3 state title last season with those three guys? Why couldn't they have been recruited and signed together to one of our state's programs?

PHOTO -- In a perfect world, Muskegon's Anthony Bradford (left) and Antwan Reed would line up next to each other at one of Michigan's five Division I college football playing programs. Instead, Bradford is verbally committed to LSU, while Reed is a freshman at WMU. Photo by Jason Goorman/Local Sports Journal.

And how about those two tackles at Michigan? Both guys are elite pass protectors with long arms and athletic feet. Quarterbacks Sam Johnson (6-4, 210-Jr-Walled Lake, MI) or Bryce Veasley (6-4, 235-Sr.-West Bloomfield, MI), if they would've been enticed to sign with U-M, would have plenty of time and a nice pocket to pass the ball to (potential) receivers A. J. Abbott (6-2, 200-Sr.-West Bloomfield, MI), Taj Mustapha (6-1, 185-Sr.-West Bloomfield, MI) and Abdur-Rahmaan Yaseen (6-2, 195-Jr.-Walled Lake, MI and Johnson's high school teammate). Behind this explosive threesome (Veasley, Abbott and Mustapha), West Bloomfield finished as D-1 (big school) state runner-up last season. Why couldn't this West Bloomfield threesome have been recruited as a package deal and signed together to the Big Ten university 30 minutes or so away from their high school? Let alone, the fact their high school head coach was a Wolverine wide receiver back in the day, as well. Why didn't this happen? It seemed to have been "written in the stars," if only our D-I college football programs had their "you know what" together when it comes to recruiting in this state. Okay, I climbed up on my soapbox a little, sorry...

And with that off my chest, here, without further adieu, are the state of Michigan's top 10 offensive line prospects for the class of 2019 --

Top 10 Offensive Line Recruits for Michigan's Class of 2019 (all are high-level D-I prospects) -- 

1. Devontae Dobbs-6-4, 295-Belleville -- Widely regarded as the top offensive line prospect in the nation. Outstanding balance, feet and technique already as a high school player. I believe he could play any line position and be dominant. Belleville, located between Detroit and Ann Arbor, has a a storied football history with former NFL Pro Bowl players DT Kris Jenkins (Maryland) and LB Ian Gold (U-M) and Super Bowl champion DT Cullen Jenkins (CMU) all once wearing Tiger Orange and Black. Verbal to Michigan State.
2. Logan Brown-6-7, 310-East Kentwood -- Also widely regarded as a top five offensive line recruit nationally. The Great Lakes State has two "Top Five"-level nationally O-linemen for the class of 2019. That should tell you something about the talent at the position in Michigan. Brown is still a bit raw, but his potential ceiling is through the roof. Long arms, size, athleticism -- Brown, from East Kentwood, which is a suburb of Grand Rapids, has it all as a future All-American and NFL guy. Verbal to Wisconsin.
3. Anthony Bradford-6-5, 330-Muskegon -- Almost every year, in any other state, Bradford would be a No. 1-type offensive line recruit, but this season, in Michigan, he's ranked No. 3. That's truly amazing because Bradford is a total stud in the trenches. I see him as a physical, punishing road grader of the highest degree at the next level. He's a bit raw, but man, once he tightens up and gets coached up in college, look out -- I pity the defensive lineman assigned to square up against him and try to push him back. Verbal to LSU.
4. Adam Berghorst-6-7, 270-Zeeland East -- Berghorst might be the finest all-around lineman prospect in Michigan, if not the Midwest (though Flint Carman-Ainsworth DE Michael Fletcher, a MSU verbal, has D-I offers for football and basketball, might have something to say about that idea). Also a dominating DE, Berghorst could find himself at that position or moving inside to DT at the next level. A three-sport star for Zeeland East, located near Grand Rapids, Berghorst is a top basketball and baseball player, as well. He is an All-State pitcher for the Chix and will have the opportunity to compete in both sports at MSU. Verbal to Michigan State.
5. Spencer Brown-6-6, 290-Walled Lake Western -- Right there, neck and neck, with Adam Berghorst as Michigan's, if not the Midwest's, top two-way lineman, Brown is a terror on both sides of scrimmage for Western, located in the Detroit suburbs. I personally like him as a 6-6, 320-pound defensive tackle at the next level, but he could be just as skilled and impactful on the offensive line. An overwhelming force in the trenches, Brown has great leverage and quickness for a player his size. Verbal to Michigan State. 
6. Karsen Barnhart-6-5, 285-Paw Paw -- From same small southwest Michigan school and town as NFL Pro Bowl DE Jason Babin (Paw Paw, WMU, NFL), Barnhart is another offensive lineman that, in previous years or in most other states, would be either No. 1- or No. 2-ranked. In Michigan, for the class of 2019, Barnhart is my No. 6-ranked offensive line prospect. An outstanding hoops player for his size, Barnhart has big-time athletic ability and has even played tight end in the past for the Redskins. Like Devontae Dobbs, I believe Barnhart can play any position on the offensive line and succeed. I can see him being an "Alex Mack"-type center at the next level or a pulling guard or a left tackle with his nimble feet and overall athleticism. Verbal to Michigan.
7. Brock Jordan-6-3, 285-Okemos -- The top, pure center in the state of Michigan. Jordan simply nullifies any defender in front of him. With strong feet and balance, Jordan projects out to 6-3, 310-315 at the next level. The best D-I prospect from Okemos, a Lansing suburb, since NFL offensive tackle Taylor Moton (WMU, a second round NFL draft pick in 2017 and currently, after two preseason games, starting at tackle for the Carolina Panthers). Jordan is a Big Ten-level athlete and line recruit. Indiana, Purdue, Michigan State, etc. where are you on this guy?
8. P. J. Brown-6-4, 290-Monroe -- Okay, here's another guy I simply cannot understand why he isn't on every Big Ten or even MAC school's radar? A three-year starter for Monroe, located near the Michigan-Ohio border, in football and a varsity basketball player as a freshman, Brown has feet and athleticism second to no one on this list. I think it's somewhere online, but there's a video of Brown dunking a basketball. How many 6-4, 290-pound kids do you know who can dunk a basketball and play varsity hoops as a freshman at a large Michigan high school. Brown bench presses 345 pounds and squats 525 pounds. From same school as former NFL players LB Audie Cole (North Carolina State), DT Eric Wilson (co-captain at U-M) and WR Carl Ford (Toledo). I see Brown as an athletic, highly-coordinated 6-4, 310-pound center or guard at the next level.
9. Spencer Holstege-6-5, 285-Grand Rapids South Christian -- Just another player who should be ranked higher, but the talent level this upcoming season in Michigan is so deep and skilled, Holstege is ranked No. 9. Another athletic big kid, Holstege for many seasons played tight end for the Sailors. With a good base, strong balance, elite athletic ability, Holstege is not your typical offensive lineman. One of the best athletes at South Christian, Holstege is Big Ten bound -- as he should be. Verbal to Purdue. 
10. Keegan Vaughn-6-5, 315-Westland John Glenn- The best O-lineman prospect from Westland John Glenn, located in the Detroit suburbs, since Jeff Graham (starter at center for Michigan State in the 1990s), Vaughn is so big and strong. Thick-legged and powerful, Vaughn is already Big Ten-sized. He will be a three-year varsity starter (he played at Livonia Stevenson as a sophomore). Vaughn is a rugged, physical specimen in the trenches. I project him as a 6-5, 330 offensive guard. From same school as recent NFL players WR Keshawn Martin (Michigan State) and RB Jeremy Langford (Michigan State).

Other top offensive linemen for Michigan's class of 2019 (all are D-I prospects at some level) --
Jack Haverdink-6-4, 270-OT-Portage Northern (Dad Kevin played OT in the NFL), Hayden VanderWeele-6-4, 265-OT-Portage Northern, Michael Sarabyn-6-6, 290-OT-Dowagiac, Bruin French-6-4, 295-OG-Clare, Zach Carpenter-6-6, 280-OT-Farwell (also starts at center on basketball team), Bryant Schram-6-3, 285-OG-C-Iron River West Iron County (Upper Peninsula Dream Team selection as junior, U.P. Division 2 shot put state champion-48-1, third in discus-119-11), Bryce Neff-6-4, 270-Gaylord, Stuart Kettler-6-6, 270-OT-East Grand Rapids (Ball State, Bowling Green State, Miami (OH), Toledo offers), Jonah Erickson-6-5, 285-OT-OG-C-Rockford (three-year starter), Tyler Sikkema-6-5, 270-OT-Wayland, Peyton Young-6-5, 300-OT-Muskegon Oakridge (three-year starter), Marquis Cooper-6-3, 320-OG-Muskegon, William Racely-6-4, 270-OG-C-Flushing (Verbal to EMU), Jake Esckilsen-6-5, 305-OT-Hemlock (310 bench press), Jayson Tunstall-6-3, 265-OG-C-New Lothrop (Division 7-8 All-State selection as junior), Jacob Dean-6-9, 315-OT-Walled Lake Western (Iowa State, U-M, WMU, Kent State, Ohio offers), Mahdi Hazime-6-3, 290-OG-C-Dearborn Fordson (Morehead State, Morgan State offers), Ali Jaber-6-7, 335-OT-Dearborn Fordson, Mohamed Saad-6-5, 285-OT-Dearborn, Zach Conti-6-7, 300-OT-Trenton, Evan Orme-6-6, 255-OT-Riverview Gabriel Richard (also top hoops player), Trevon Roberts-6-2, 290-OG-C-Detroit Central (Detroit News first-team All-Detroit honors as junior), Allen Jones-6-5, 315-OT-Detroit Cass Tech, Christian Dudley-6-2, 280-OG-Detroit Cass Tech, Rachon Gulley-6-4, 325-OG-Detroit East English Village (Detroit News second-team All-Detroit selection as junior), Deshawn Ingram-6-5, 285-OT-Detroit King (Verbal to Howard), Danny Motowski-6-2, 270-C-Warren DeLaSalle (Verbal to CMU), Chris Cominos-6-3, 265-OG-Warren DeLaSalle (will be three-year starter for defending D-2 state champions), Mikey LaFontsee-6-3, 240-OG-C-Newaygo, Tyler Oxley-6-2, 250-C-Jackson County Parma Western (three-year starter, 300 bench press), Connor Krauss-6-2, 300-C-Grandville, Kyle Wojczynski-6-3, 260-OG-Grand Rapids Forest Hills Central, Jarrett Short-6-3, 245-OG-Grand Blanc, Logan Miller-6-5, 315-OG-Allendale, Joe Boehmer-6-2, 275-OG-Traverse City St. Francis, Brandon Gross-6-3, 280-OG-Montrose (three-year starter), Brandon Silvers-6-3, 245-C-Charlotte (three-year starter), Hayden Blair-6-6, 260-OT-Bay City Western.

PHOTO -- Paw Paw's Karsen Barnhart (6-5, 285), ranked the No. 6 offensive line prospect for the state of Michigan's class of 2019, is an all-around athlete for the Redskins. A standout in both football and basketball, Barnhart has next-level quickness and athleticism for a player his size. In college, Barnhart, with his coordination and footwork, could project to any position along the offensive line. Barnhart is verbally committed to Michigan.

Top 10 Tight End Prospects for Michigan's Class of 2019

The state of Michigan historically has developed and produced big-time tight end prospects over the decades. Arguably the greatest tight end in modern NFL history, future Hall-of-Famer Antonio Gates (Detroit Central, Kent State) is a native Michigander, while other former NFL stars from the Great Lakes State include Rodney Holman (Ypsilanti, Tulane), Pete Metzelaars (Portage Central, Wabash College), Ron Kramer (East Detroit, U-M), Fred Arbanas (Redford St. Mary, MSU), Pete Mitchell (Birmingham Brother Rice, Boston College) and Jay Riemersma (Zeeland, U-M). This year's tight end group can do it all, from blocking up front, to catching passes in traffic or in space. Here are the state of Michigan's top tight end prospects for the class of 2019 --

Top 10 Tight End Recruits for Michigan's Class of 2019 -- 

1. Dayton Keller-6-4, 250-Jackson Lumen Christi- A three-year starter for defending D-6 state champion Lumen Christi, Keller is a gifted athlete for a kid his size. Named to the Jackson Citizen-Patriot Dream Team for football and basketball as a junior, Keller is one of those special athletes who is a mismatch on either side of the ball (he's also a dominating DE). Strangely, he's being a bit under-recruited at the moment. Big Ten? Get on this kid...
2. Jack Sherwin-6-4, 235-Traverse City Central- Amazing physical specimen who can star on either side of the line of scrimmage at the D-I level. At times, an unblockable DE for the Trojans, Sherwin is a Big Ten-level player who has chosen to play in the MAC. Verbal to WMU
3. Mike Harding-6-6, 225-Detroit Catholic Central- Physical, punishing blocker first and foremost from legendary Detroit Catholic Central program, but also has all the tools to catch passes down the field. Well-coached, technically sound, would make an outstanding recruit for an Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Northwestern-type Big Ten program.
4. Travis Miracle-6-3, 240-Yale- A talented receiver who could become a quality H-back at the next level or blocker up front. Like many on this list, Miracle, one of the best D-I recruits to come out of the Thumb area of Michigan in years, is also a high-level DE prospect, using brute strength and quickness to control one side of the field.
5. Hunter Crenshaw-6-5, 225-Flint Powers Catholic- Could be a devastating rush DE at the next level, but I like him as a physical edge blocker and receiver on offense. From a perennial power program that has churned out multiple D-I and NFL players over the years, including former All-Pro cornerback and current Notre Dame defensive back coach Todd Lyght and Super Bowl champion linebacker Jim Morrissey (Super Bowl XX with Chicago Bears).
6. Marshawn Kneeland-6-4, 230-Wyoming Godwin Heights- I love this kid. One of the top players in the Grand Rapids area. Could play at the D-I level on either side of the football. Fluid player with soft hands and big-time athleticism. Caught 19 passes for 300 yards last season, while as a DE had 80 tackles, 19 TFL and 15 sacks. Named to the Grand Rapids All-South first team.
7. Mitchell Kuzma-6-5, 245-Remus Chippewa Hills- Another athletic big man who can run and catch the football. Former wide receiver, also hard-hitting, physical DE.
8. Jason Proctor-6-5, 230-Harbor Springs- Three-sport standout for Rams (basketball and baseball, as well), one of my top sleepers for Michigan's class of 2019, smooth, nimble athlete with a Big Ten body already. Could also play DE at next level. Definite D-I recruit, but the type of player from a small northern Michigan school who gets overlooked, ends up going to Grand Valley State or Northern Michigan, gains 25-30 pounds and ends up playing in the NFL. Big Ten, MAC get on this kid.
9. Mason Vredeveld-6-6, 230-Allendale-Big, strong, athletic tight end from Grand Rapids area. Talented blocker. Skilled basketball player, as well. Air Force offer.
10. (3-way tie) Drew Peterson-6-3, 225-Maple City Glen Lake -- Three-year starter for northern Michigan powerhouse program. Cornell, Morehead State offers
     Caleb Williams-6-4, 225-Farmington Hills Harrison- Also top-flight DE prospect, runs 4.5 40. I believe Williams will have a breakout-type year for the nationally renowned Hawk program, in its final season.
     Tucker Taylor-6-3, 220-Gwinn- Outstanding all-around athlete, named to the Upper Peninsula Dream Team as a junior, earned Michigan High School Football Coaches Association Division 7 All-State first team honors last year, also explosive basketball player who brings Modeltowner (yes, that's the team nickname -- cool, huh?) fans to their feet with highlight reel slam dunks. My No. 4-ranked overall recruit in the Upper Peninsula.

Other top tight end prospects for Michigan's class of 2019 (all are D-I recruits) -- 
Jamal Case-6-3, 225-Jackson Northwest (love this kid's potential, runs a 4.6 40, had 37 catches for 614 yards and four TDs as junior), Tyson Claeys-6-4, 230-Johannesburg-Lewiston (Air Force offer), Ethan Riley-6-4, 235-Trenton, Ian Sousa-6-4, 235-Kingsley, Ethan Hincka-6-3, 220-Rogers City, Andre Smith-6-6, 215-Pewamo-Westphalia, Wyatt Drum-6-3, 220-Richland Gull Lake, Erik Fraeyman-6-4, 240-Romeo, Robert Bell-6-5, 230-Redford Thurston, Jordan Dent-6-3, 215-Lowell, Gavin Cossou-6-6, 220-Greenville, Michael Brauer-6-3, 220-Howell, Jesse Cook-6-7, 210-North Muskegon, Gunnar Gavalis-6-4, 215-Plainwell, Reuben Blanco-6-2, 250-Wyoming Lee (will be four-year starter), Brad Osborne-6-4, 250-Hamilton, Nick Christian-6-5, 220-Chelsea (three-sport standout, plays basketball and baseball, as well for Bulldogs), Jaden Mabin-6-5, 250-Mattawan, Hunter Clark-6-3, 245-Lincoln-Alcona.

PHOTO -- Gwinn tight end Tucker Taylor (6-3, 220) is an explosive player for the Modeltowners. Taylor was named to the Upper Peninsula Dream Team last season as a junior. Ranked the No. 1 tight end prospect in the Upper Peninsula (No. 10 overall in Michigan) and the No. 4-ranked recruit in the U.P., Taylor is a raw talent, but a bonafide Division I college football prospect. Photo by Adam Niemi/The Daily News.

Michigan's Top 10 Quarterbacks for the Class of 2019

The state of Michigan historically has produced some of the nation's top quarterback prospects throughout the years. Last season, for example, eight quarterbacks from the Great Lakes State signed with Division I college football programs. This year, that total could be even higher, with a plethora of high-level D-I signal-callers suiting up for teams all over Michigan. This season is somewhat unique in that there are multiple QBs 6-foot-1 or under who are truly some of the top players at their position in the Midwest. Also, the pass-catch combos of D-I level QBs and WRs on the same team is off the charts this season throughout the Great Lakes State. Here are the state of Michigan's top 10 quarterback prospects for the class of 2019 --

Michigan's Top 10 Quarterback Prospects for the Class of 2019 (all are D-I recruits) -- 

1. Dwan Mathis-6-5, 205-Oak Park-One of the best dual threat quarterbacks in the nation, Mathis has the lean body and long strides to be a Vince Young-type QB at the next level. Will team with junior blue-chip WR Maliq Carr (6-6, 205, Iowa, Missouri, Kentucky, Syracuse offers) to form one of the Midwest's best passing combos. Verbal to Ohio State
2. Sam Johnson-6-4, 195-Walled Lake Western-Draws some comparisons to Drew Henson (Brighton, U-M, NFL and MLB) with arm strength, threw for 2,115 yards and 23 touchdowns with five interceptions last season. Will combine with junior WR Abdur-Rahmaan Yaseen (6-2, 185, Maryland, Purdue, Iowa, Indiana, Minnesota offers) to form an explosive pass-catch duo this upcoming season. Verbal to Boston College
3. Brian Elder-6-6, 225-Bay City Central- One of those kids I don't understand why he isn't getting more national, let alone, state publicity. Already Big Ten size, Elder has a powerful and accurate arm, good mobility and strong leadership skills. Will be a three-year starter. Broke school passing record, which stood for 60 years, last year throwing for over 1,700 yards. Will team with one of the nation's top junior wide receivers in Devell Washington (6-4, 200, Michigan, Ohio State offers) to form high-octane pass-catch twosome. Purdue, Indiana, Illinois, etc. where are you on this kid?
4. Austin Brown-6-0, 190-Madison Heights Madison-I seriously don't understand recruiting in this state sometimes. Austin Brown arguably is the best three-sport athlete in the state of Michigan. Brown is one of those natural, once-in-a-lifetime athletes that, despite his size and stature, consistently exceeds all expectations. Named the AP Division 7-8 Player of the Year last season as a junior, Brown threw for 3,062 yards and 40 TDs. On the basketball court, the point guard was named All-State as a junior. On the diamond, Brown is one of the Midwest's top recruits, throwing 88 miles per hour from the hill and is a power switch-hitting shortstop. He'll be a four-year starter at the high school level, playing two years at national powerhouse program Detroit Catholic Central as a freshman and sophomore. Last year, Brown led Madison to a 12-1 overall record and a spot in the Division 7 state semifinals. Also a classroom standout, Brown has a 4.0 grade point average. Akron, Miami (OH), Cornell, Dartmouth, Colgate offers. Like Brian Elder, where are you Big Ten on Brown? West Virginia, Kentucky, Kansas, Iowa State, etc., get on this kid.
5. Dequan Finn-6-2, 200-Detroit King-All one needs to know about Finn is that he will be a four-year starter at King. One of the top programs in the Midwest, anyone who can start for four years for the Crusaders, especially at the QB spot, is a bonafide big-time prospect. Finn can do it all from under center. Last season, Finn was 93-of-174 passing for 1,252 yards and 15 TDs, while rushing for 764 yards and six scores leading King to the Division 2 state semifinals. As a sophomore, Finn led the Crusaders to a D-2 state championship. Will combine with junior star WR Rashawn Williams (6-1, 190, Michigan State, Michigan, Ohio State, Pitt, Purdue, Kansas State, Indiana, Maryland offers) to form exciting passing duo.Verbal to CMU
6. Tommy Schuster-6-1, 185-Clinton Township Chippewa Valley-Just a gamer. Schuster, who runs a 4.6 40, plays some of the best high school football competition in the state of Michigan and will be a three-year starter for Chippewa Valley. Last season, Schuster, who was named to the Division 1 All-State squad, was 110-of-176 passing for 1,925 yards and 26 TDs with three interceptions as a junior. On the ground, he rushed for four TDs. He has a career completion rate of 63 percent. Last year, Schuster led the Big Reds to the Division 1 state quarterfinals. Like many QBs on this list, Schuster has a standout WR to throw the ball to in senior David Ellis (6-0, 190, verbal to CMU).
7. Drew Humm-6-3, 185-Alma-Will be a three-year starter for the Panthers. Last season, Humm passed for over 1,300 yards and 14 TDs, leading Alma to an 8-3 overall record. Humm is also a talented and hard-hitting FS for the Panthers.
8. Eric Wenzel-6-1, 190-Kalamazoo United-I love this kid. Super productive on the field, can hurt opponents with his arm or with his scrambling ability. Last season, Wenzel was 243-of-387 passing for 3,101 yards and 35 TDs with 10 interceptions. On the ground he rushed for three TDs. Runs a 4.7 40. Last year, Wenzel was named the Kalamazoo Gazette Player of the Year. Teams with All-State senior WR Heath Baldwin (6-4, 195, No. 10-ranked receiver in Michigan's class of 2019) to form highlight reel-like pass-catch combo.
9. Blake Gatfield-6-2, 190-DeWitt-The Lansing area's top returning signal-caller, Gatfield helped lead DeWitt to a 10-2 overall record last season reaching the Division 3 state quarterfinals before losing to eventual champion Muskegon. The left-handed throwing Gatfield is a strong pocket-passer, tossing a Lansing area best 25 TDs last year. Behind Gatfield, the Panthers averaged 38 points per game last season.
10. Tobin Schwannecke-6-3, 180-Traverse City Central-Another big-time athlete playing quarterback. Schwannecke is a D-I level recruit in both football and basketball. A true dual-threat QB, last season Schwannecke passed for 2,000 yards and 21 TDs, while rushing for 1,000 yards and 14 scores, accumulating 3,000 total yards of offense and 35 TDs for Central. In hoops, Schwannecke has played at the varsity level since he was a freshman and is one of the top point guard prospects in the state of Michigan. Schwannecke runs a 4.6 40, bench presses 235 pounds and squats 405 pounds. He'll team with senior TE Jack Sherwin (6-4, 230, verbal to WMU) to form a hard-to-stop passing duo this upcoming year. Big Ten, MAC, take a look at this guy.

Other top quarterbacks for the class of 2019 (all are D-I prospects)- Isaac VanDyke-6-2, 200-Holland West Ottawa (threw for 2,400 yards and 34 TDs last season, while rushing for 550 yards, named to the Holland Sentinel All-Area first team), Will Jontz-6-3, 200-Brighton, Alex Fries-6-3, 180-Saginaw Swan Valley, George Walterhouse-6-3, 205-Linden (165-of-259 passing for 2,905 yards, 25 TDs, 11 ints., 571 rush yards, nine TDs), Emanuel Ferguson-6-2, 185-River Rouge (Division 3-4 All-State as junior, passed for 1,500 yards, rushed for 700 yards last season, verbal to Air Force), Hunter James-6-0, 180-Kingston (Selected to the AP 8-Man All-State first team as junior, throwing for 21 TDs, with only two interceptions, while rushing for 777 yards on 86 carries with 12 TDs), Jackson Ostrowsky-6-0, 200-Mount Pleasant (was 91-of-162 passing for 1,942 yards and 21 TDs last year, named AP Division 3-4 All-State), Jay Solano-6-2, 185-Trenton (passed for 2,000 yards and 18 TDs last season as junior), Tyler Helgeson-6-3, 190-Portage Northern, Luke Majick-6-0, 185-Grand Rapids Forest Hills Central (passed for 1,787 yards and 21 TDs, rushed for 840 yards and 15 TDs last season), Mason Vieau-6-4, 215-Pinconning, Khol Partridge-6-2, 185-Brooklyn Columbia Central (was 113-of-204 passing for 1,303 yards, 12 TDs with four interceptions, rushed for 517 yards and 10 TDs, named to Jackson Citizen-Patriot Dream Team as junior, also earned Citizen-Patriot Dream Team honors for baseball), Drew Alsobrooks-6-1, 180-Livonia Churchill (also one of state's top placekickers), Wilson Wirebaugh-6-2, 210-Holland Christian, Chase Brown-6-0, 200-Comstock Park (passed for 2,800 yards last season), Sam Spaulding-6-4, 195-Berrien Springs (one of Michigan's best all-around, pure athletes, star hoops player for Shamrocks and state champion high jumper who's cleared 6-foot-9 in the event, could switch to WR, SS or LB at next level).

PHOTO -- Madison Heights Madison's Austin Brown (6-0, 190, No. 4-ranked QB in Michigan's class of 2019) is arguably the top three-sport athlete in the state of Michigan this upcoming year. The reigning AP Division 7-8 Player of the Year in football, Brown passed for 3,062 yards and 40 touchdowns as a junior. On the basketball court, as a high-scoring point guard with the hops to dunk, he was named All-State, while on the baseball diamond, he's one of the top prospects in the Midwest as a switch-hitting shortstop and pitcher with an 88-mile-per-hour fastball.

Michigan's Top 10 Running Backs for the Class of 2019

The running back group this year for Michigan's class of 2019 is an eclectic bunch, to say the least. I can't remember another recent season in which there was such a varied collection of talent throughout the Great Lakes State. For a college head coach or recruiter, this year's running back crop is like a one-stop shopping trip. You need a power back? Michigan has it. In search of a "make-you-miss"-type quick-twitch athlete? You've come to the right place, the Great Lakes State has plenty of those types of players. Looking for blazing speed? You guessed it, it's all here in Michigan's class of 2019 running back group. Here are the state of Michigan's top 10 running back prospects for the class of 2019.

Michigan's Top 10 Running Back Prospects for the Class of 2019 -- (all are D-I recruits) --

1. Jaren Mangham-6-1, 220-Detroit Cass Tech -- Similar to Belleville's Julian Barnett (the state of Michigan's No. 1 WR and DB recruit), Mangham, in my opinion, is the Great Lakes State's top RB AND LB recruit. He has the potential to be a star on either side of the football. With 4.5 speed and a Big Ten body already, Mangham is one of the best all-around football players in the Midwest. Simply put, Mangham is a pure talent and one of those players a college football team can build its program around. Fast and powerful as a RB, Mangham is a load with the football in his hands. He's the type of back who can carry the pigskin 30 times a game. Defensively, I see him being just as impactful as a LB, with the intensity and ability to make stops inside at the line of scrimmage or have the quickness and agility to drop back in pass coverage. He's the total package. Had offers from Alabama, Texas, Texas A & M, Michigan State, Florida, Florida State, Oregon, Ole Miss, Arkansas and Tennessee among others. Verbal to Colorado
2. Montell Glover-5-11, 190-Stephenson -- If you don't know this kid's name, you should. Arguably the best player from the Upper Peninsula in a decade or so. I don't even know where to begin with this young man. I guess, first off, he bench presses 300 pounds as a high school junior. Last season, he rushed for 1,194 yards on 93 carries with 21 touchdowns. On special teams, he returned four punts for TDs, while on defense he scored two touchdowns. For the past two years (sophomore and junior seasons), he has placed first in the 100 meters, 200 meters and 400-meter run in the Upper Peninsula track and field state meet. His best times so far in the U.P. state meet are 11.36 in the 100 meters as a junior, 22.98 in the 200 meters as a junior and 50.76 in the 400-meter run as a sophomore. Though he faces little competition and few challengers on the track, his times are still quite incredible. To compare, Iowa State commit CB Jaeveyon Morton (class of 2018) of Detroit King ran a 10.75 100 meters at this past season's Lower Peninsula Division I state meet, while current Miami (OH) verbal commit DB Javon Kimpson (class of 2019) of Clinton Township Chippewa Valley clocked an 11.13 in the 100 meters. Current Penn State verbal commit LB Lance Dixon (class of 2019) of West Bloomfield ran a 22.43 in the 200 meters at the D-I state meet, while Glover's 50.76 in the 400-meter run would have placed him 18th in D-I (big school division) at this past June's state meet. On the gridiron, Glover earned Upper Peninsula Dream Team honors this past year and was named the state of Michigan's Associated Press 8-Man Player of the Year. He's also a standout defensive back prospect. Yes, he plays 8-man football for a tiny school in the U.P., but this kid is the real deal.
3. Grant Papineau-6-2, 225-Central Lake -- Call me crazy, but I believe this player is a high-level D-I college football prospect. Like Montell Glover, Papineau is an 8-man football star and receives little to no publicity, but to me, talent is talent and Papineau has lots of it on both sides of the football. Last season, he led Central Lake to the Division I 8-man state championship defeating Deckerville 32-30. In the title game, Papineau rushed for 181 yards on 30 carries with one touchdown. Overall on the year, he ran for 1,322 yards on 137 attempts with 21 TDs. Defensively as a hard-hitting LB, Papineau finished the season with 70 tackles, including 17 TFL. In the Division I 8-man state semifinals, Papineau had a monster game, finishing with 241 yards rushing on 30 carries with four touchdowns. As if that wasn't enough, he also returned a fumble 65 yards for a TD, leading Central Lake to a 54-20 win over Stephenson and Montell Glover. Papineau reminds me of one of those old-fashioned Penn State fullbacks from back in Joe Paterno's days on the Nittany Lions' sidelines. Like Glover, Papineau might play 8-man football at a small northern Michigan school, but despite his circumstances, all he has done is dominate his peers. What more can you ask him to do?
4. Konner Near-6-1, 205-St. Johns -- A power back with a nasty, hard-running attitude, Near rushed for 1,377 yards with 21 TDs last season. His single-game high was 354 yards against Cadillac last year. Another two-way, standout, Near could also play LB at the next level. Named to the Lansing State Journal Dream Team as a junior last year.
5. Lew Nichols-6-0, 200-Detroit Cass Tech- The second part of the state of Michigan's top 1-2 punch in the backfield, Nichols pairs with Jaren Mangham to form one of the best running back duos in the country. Combines speed with good power, Nichols is a feature-type back at the next level. Had offers from Purdue, Indiana, Minnesota, Pitt and West Virgina among others. Verbal to CMU
6. Drew Stout-6-2, 185-Carson City-Crystal- Last season, Stout set a school record rushing for 1,871 yards with 20 TDs. As a sophomore he started at quarterback throwing for 1,808 yards and rushing for 1,057 yards accounting for 30 total touchdowns. For his efforts as a sophomore, he was named the Daily News' Offensive Player of the Year. An all-around football player, Stout is also a big-time prospect as a defensive back. Last season, Stout earned AP Division 7-8 All-State honors and was also named to the Lansing State Journal Dream Team.
7. Steven Walker-5-10, 175-Canton-One of the fastest backs in the state of Michigan. Super explosive, home-run-type runner. Rushed for a single-game high of 352 yards on 12 carries with five TDs in a victory over Hartland last season. In first four games, Walker racked up 803 yards and 12 TDs. He was named to the AP Division 1-2 All-State team last year as a junior. Only seven juniors were selected for the state's "big school" squad. Walker was in pretty good company on the Division 1-2 All-State team. The other juniors named to the team included O-linemen Belleville's Devontae Dobbs (Michigan State verbal) and Walled Lake Western's Spencer Brown (Michigan State verbal), Flint Carman-Ainsworth defensive end Michael Fletcher (Michigan State verbal), Clinton Township Chippewa Valley linebacker Marcel Lewis (Michigan State verbal), Detroit King safety Marvin Grant (Purdue verbal) and Belleville wide receiver-defensive back Julian Barnett (Michigan State verbal).
8. Brec Alward-5-10, 185-Alma-A triple-threat-type back, Alward can hurt an opponent as a runner, receiver and kickoff return specialist. Last season, Alward rushed for 1,744 yards with 25 TDs. As a receiver, he hauled in three touchdown catches, while on special teams he returned two kickoffs for TDs. Because of his efforts, Alward was named AP Division 3-4 All-State and selected to the Lansing State Journal Dream Team.
9. Alec Muck-5-11, 180-Sand Creek-More than likely the fastest running back in the state of Michigan and possibly the quickest in the Midwest. Already a three-time 200-meter state champion and two-time 100-meter title-holder, Muck is a blur on the track and the football field. He's definitely one of Michigan's top "athletes" on the gridiron. He's a guy that truly can score from anywhere on the football field. As a sophomore he was named the Lenawee County Offensive Player of the Year rushing for 1,504 yards and 27 TDs. At the next level, Muck could transition to wide receiver or defensive back. As a running back, Muck arguably gets around the corner faster than any back in Michigan. Muck's top time in the 100 meters is 10.7, while his best in the 200 meters is 22.02 -- and he's a junior. This past June at the one-day Ohio State camp, Muck ran the 40-yard dash twice, recording times of 4.37 and 4.33. Some very smart and/or resourceful D-I college football recruiter or coach is going to sign Muck, who, in my opinion, is woefully under-recruited at this point in his career. Big Ten, where are you on this game-breaker-type RB/WR/DB/KR?
10. Jalen Kirkland-5-11, 225-Lapeer-With a Big Ten body already, Kirkland is a bruising back, with the speed and moves to either run over defenders or sprint by them. Last season, Kirkland rushed for 1,480 yards on 194 carries with 18 TDs. As a junior, Kirkland was named to the Flint Journal Dream Team.

Other top RB prospects (all are D-I recruits) -- Bryce Stark-5-10, 190-Montague (rushed for 1,724 yards and 30 TDs last year, 4.5 40, 315 bench press, 425 squat, named AP Division 5-6 All-State), Sincrere Dent-5-11, 210-Muskegon Mona Shores, Phillip Jones-5-8, 165-Reed City (incredible talent, tough to leave out of Top 10, rushed for 2,049 yards and 34 TDs last season, named to the AP Division 5-6 All-State team), Eli Potts-6-1, 200-Portage Central, Hunter Nowak-6-0, 175-Morrice (rushed for 1,647 yards and 25 TDs last year, named to the AP 8-man All-State team as junior), Darius Clayton-6-1, 225-Benton Harbor, Jalen Watkins-5-10, 185-Battle Creek Lakeview (ran for 1,005 yards and 11 TDs as junior, selected to the Battle Creek Enquirer All-City squad), Elijah Lewis-5-11, 165-Pine River, Michael Whitney-5-11, 205-Lansing Catholic, Giovanni Weeks-6-0, 185-Kent City (rushed for 1,400 yards and 25 TDs last season, named to Detroit Free Press Division 6 All-State team, placed first in the 200 meters in 22.36, second in the 100 meters in 11.1 and fourth in the long jump with a 20-10 leap at the Division 3 state meet last year), Kendel Taylor-6-0, 195-Madison Heights Bishop Foley (rushed for 1,100 yards and 12 TDs last season, runs 4.4, verbal to Navy). Exziar Edwards-5-9, 170-Jackson, Logan Murphy-6-0, 220-Ottawa Lake-Whiteford (also standout LB prospect, runs 4.5 40, 300 bench press, 540 squat, led Whiteford to D-8 state title last year, running for 126 yards on 16 carries with three TDs in championship contest, team finished 14-0) , Kendall Williams-5-9, 165-Farmington, Torriano Williams-5-10, 170-Oak Park (Syracuse, Miami (OH) offers), Marcus Guerrero-5-8, 185-Waterford Mott (runs 4.5 40, 330 bench press, 500 squat), Jelontay Hervey-5-11, 185-Battle Creek Harper Creek (rushed for 1,066 yards and nine TDs last year, named to Battle Creek Enquirer All-City team), Tori Jackson-6-1, 205-Portage Northern, Donovan Webb-6-0, 190-Holland (rushed for 1,057 yards on 135 carries with nine TDs last season, named to Holland Sentinel All-Area first team), Abraham Jaafar-5-9, 175-Dearborn Fordson (250 bench press, 340 squat, 4.5 40, Colorado State offer), Caleb Oyster-5-10, 195-Utica Eisenhower (ran for 1,159 yards and 14 TDs, named to Detroit News All-East first team last season, 4.4 40, 22.09 200 meters), Ethan Lopresto-5-10, 170-Reading (rushed for 1,600 yards and 25 TDs last year, runs a 4.4 40-yard dash, 11.04 100 meters, 21.83 200 meters, also qualified for state meet as wrestler at 152 pounds as junior).

PHOTO -- In a photo that captures high school football in November in northern Michigan better than any I've ever seen and also a picture that highlights two of the best players in the state -- this image captures it all -- power, talent and determination, Great Lakes State football at its best. Here, Central Lake junior D-I college football recruit Grant Papineau (6-2, 225) runs into Stephenson junior D-I prospect Montell Glover (5-11, 190) during the Division I 8-man football state semifinals last season. Papineau finished with 241 yards rushing on 30 carries with four touchdowns, leading host Central Lake to a 54-20 victory over Stephenson. Papineau would go on to lead the Trojans to a state championship, while also being named to Michigan's 8-man All-State first team. Glover would end up being named Michigan's 8-Man Player of the Year. Photo by Brendan Quealy, Traverse City Record-Eagle.

Top 10 Wide Receivers for Michigan's Class of 2019

In years past, I've always started my position-by-position rankings with the two areas on the football field which I feel are the most important and crucial to success -- the offensive and defensive lines. This year, however, I've decided to begin my statewide position rankings with the wide receiver group. Besides the offensive line and defensive backs, I believe the state of Michigan is traditionally strongest at wide receiver, at least when it comes to offensive skill positions. The class of 2019 is no different when it comes to the wide receiver position, with multiple players among the best in the Midwest and a few, in my opinion, on a short list of the most talented in the country. Last season, some of the top wide receivers in Michigan included West Bloomfield's A.J. Abbott (Wisconsin), Detroit Cass Tech's Brandon Gray (Washington State), Detroit King's Erik Gibson (Minnesota) and West Bloomfield's Taj Mustapha (Wisconsin). This upcoming season, the state of Michigan's wide receiver class is one of the deepest, talent-wise, in recent memory. Here are the top 10 wide receivers for the class of 2019 in Michigan --

Michigan's Top 10 wide receivers for the class of 2019 -- (all are Division I prospects)

1. Julian Barnett-6-2, 195-Belleville- This kid is one of the best two-way players in the nation. Not only the top WR prospect in the state of Michigan, but also the best DB recruit, as well. Rugged, physical and fast, Barnett uses his height and 4.5 speed to overwhelm opponents on either side of the football. He could be a lock down CB at the next level or a hard-hitting safety or a sure-handed, strong WR. Verbal to Michigan State.
2. Damari Roberson-6-2, 190-Muskegon Mona Shores- The "Julian Barnett" of Michigan's west side of the state, Roberson is an explosive athlete with speed and deep-threat ability. Though not a defensive guy like Barnett, Roberson is every bit as talented and game-changing as Barnett as a WR. High-level Division I ability, with Big Ten talent and size, Roberson is one of the best WRs in the Midwest. Verbal to WMU.
3. Jalen Graham-6-2, 205-Detroit Cass Tech- Graham is one of my favorite players in the state of Michigan. This kid is one of the most gifted football players in the Great Lakes State. A two-way star, Graham could play QB, WR, DB or even bulk up to play LB at the next level. I like him, though, as a big, tough WR who could project to 6-2, 220 or so at the next level and be one of those clutch, strong receivers who make the big catches in traffic. Maryland, Pitt, Indiana, Purdue, Iowa State, Minnesota, Rutgers, Kentucky, Boston College, Missouri offers.
4. Tre Mosley-6-2, 185-West Bloomfield-The latest in what is becoming a long line of big-time wide receivers for the Lakers. Mosley follows in the high-level D-I footsteps of former West Bloomfield WR standouts Kyle Brown (Michigan State), Trishton Jackson (Syracuse), A.J. Abbott (Wisconsin) and Taj Mustapha (Wisconsin). Silky smooth as a receiver, Mosley is a superb route runner with some of the best hands in the country. Verbal to Michigan State.
5. Keondra Glass-6-3, 185-Battle Creek Central- One of my top sleepers in the state of Michigan for the class of 2019, Glass, who earned Battle Creek Enquirer All-City honors last season, suits up for a legendary football program and is the most explosive player in southwest Michigan. Raw, but crazy athleticism. A three-sport standout for the Bearcats, besides football, Glass also plays basketball (I've read articles where he's been described as the toughest player on the squad and is assigned to defend opposing players normally three to four inches taller) and runs track (he's clocked a 22.3 in the 200 meters). Not a polished receiver, but his ceiling is as high or potentially higher than any player on this list.
6. Tate Hallock-6-4, 195-Grand Rapids Forest Hills Central- Another one of those "super athletes" who could play on either side of the football at the next level. Son of former NFL player FB-HB Ty Hallock (Greenville, MSU), the younger Hallock is a do-it-all-type talent for the Rangers. I've gone back and forth where I think he'd best fit in college, position-wise. He could bulk up and be a 6-4, 225-230 OLB, or be a 6-4, 215 SS or a 6-4, 220 WR. With 4.5 speed and an NFL pedigree, Hallock is an intriguing prospect. Verbal to Michigan State.
7. James Patrick-6-1, 170-Grand Rapids Christian- One of the premier deep threats in the state of Michigan, Patrick is a slippery, explosive player in the open field and a defensive back's nightmare. He's not receiving a lot of publicity on the recruiting trail for some odd reason, but this kid is a Big Ten-level talent all the way. Ended up with 41 catches, for 904 yards and nine TDs, including a 4-TD performance against Caledonia, last season.
8. Cody Tierney-5-10, 170-Grand Rapids Northview- Arguably the top slot receiver prospect in the state of Michigan for the class of 2019, Tierney, like James Patrick, seems to be a bit under-recruited at the moment. With a quick burst and sharp, crisp cutting ability, Tierney can take it the distance from anywhere on the field. Finished with 58 receptions, for 1,329 yards and 19 TDs last season. With 4.4 speed and cat-like reflexes, Tierney, who earned AP Division 3-4 All-State last season, is a high-level recruit.
9. Jalen McGaughey-6-3, 205-Detroit King- Strong and powerful, McGaughey is a handful for any opposing DB assigned to defend him. Missed most of last season for the Crusaders, McGaughey is ready to explode onto the scene this upcoming season (recently received Minnesota and Missouri offers). Another fine two-way player, McGaughey, who runs a 4.5 40, could bulk up and play SS or OLB at the next level. Verbal to Northern Illinois. 
10. Heath Baldwin-6-4, 195-Kalamazoo United- Another amazing all-around athlete, Baldwin competes in football, basketball and track and field. On the oval, Baldwin led Kalamazoo Hackett (Hackett combines with another school for football) to a Division 4 state championship this past spring, placing first in the 110-meter hurdles in 14.83, first in the long jump with a leap of 22-2.5, fourth in the 300-meter hurdles in 40.75 and seventh in the high jump with a height of 6-1. On the gridiron, Baldwin was named to the AP Division 5-6 All-State squad last season. (TIE) Terryon Liddell-5-11, 170-Saginaw Swan Valley- Helped lead the Vikings to a Division 5 state runner-up spot last season. An all-around threat, Liddell finished last year with 21 receptions for 498 yards and five touchdowns, while as a defensive back, he had four interceptions. With 4.5 speed, Liddell is also an electrifying kick and punt returner. Last season, Liddell was named to the AP Division 5-6 All-State team.

Other top WR prospects for Michigan's class of 2019 -- (all are D-I prospects at some level)
David Ellis-6-0, 190-Clinton Township Chippewa Valley (Verbal to Indiana), Kyron McKinnie-Harper-6-0, 175-Detroit Cass Tech (Verbal to CMU), Darrell Wyatt-6-2, 185-Detroit King (Verbal to CMU), Will VanWieren-6-4, 200-Holland Christian (Holland Sentinel All-Area as junior, 70 catches, 921 yards, 9 TDs), Bryon Wilkinson-6-3, 200-Woodhaven, Kobi Russell-6-1, 185-Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood (Verbal to Colgate), Evan Vaillancourt-5-10, 190-Warren DeLaSalle (returning starter for defending D-2 state champions), Ty Broden-6-4, 180-West Bloomfield (Indiana, Iowa State, Purdue, Syracuse offers), Brendan Sersaw-5-9, 165-Clare (one of the best prospects in northern Michigan, Division 5-6 All-State as a junior), Case Conley-6-6, 185-Williamston, Matt Bradley-5-11, 175-Waterford Mott, Kejuan Sanders-6-1, 180-Detroit Community, Avery Grenier-6-0, 180-Livonia Churchill, C.J. Samborn-6-5, 175-Bay City All Saints, Matt Grand-Girard-5-11, 175-Ionia (35 receptions, 691 yards, 9 TDs, Lansing State Journal Dream Team as junior), Kalen Brown-6-1, 185-Wyoming Godwin Heights (Grand Rapids All-South pick as junior, had 21 receptions for 549 yards and eight TDs last season), Hunter Neff-6-3, 185-Chelsea, Carter Grove-6-1, 200-Midland, Justin Jelks-6-4, 180-Ypsilanti, Ethan Weatherspoon-6-2, 195-Napoleon (Jackson Citizen-Patriot Dream Team selection as junior, caught 28 passes for 632 yards and seven TDs, also standout DB, undefeated state champion wrestler at 189 pounds last year), Nick Sierocki-6-0, 170-Midland Dow (Division 1-2 All-State, three-year varsity player, 37 catches, 770 yards, 11 TDs, 570 rush yards, 5 TDs, elected team captain as junior).

PHOTO -- Grand Rapids Christian's D-I prospect James Patrick (6-1, 170) is one of the state of Michigan's most explosive players. Last season, Patrick caught 41 passes for 904 yards and nine touchdowns. Patrick is the No. 7-ranked wide receiver recruit in the Great Lakes State for the class of 2019. Photo by Mike Clark, MLive.