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.

The 1971 college football season was dominated by players from the state of Michigan

Wow, I can't believe it's been so long since I last blogged on my own site. As usual, that thing called life has gotten in the way of my writing. Anyhow, as always, football has been on my mind. Since I love the game so much and especially enjoy reading, researching and learning about the state of Michigan's history within the sport, I recently decided to look up some early era Bo Schembechler-led squads at the University of Michigan. I randomly picked the 1971 season (Schembechler's third year). I was amazed by the impact players from Michigan high schools had on the Wolverines' success that year.

PHOTO -- Michigan senior Glenn Doughty (left), from Detroit Pershing, receives a block from senior Reggie McKenzie, from Highland Park, during the Wolverines' 1971 Big Ten championship and No. 4 national ranking season.

Michigan finished as Big Ten champions (8-0) and ranked No. 4 in the nation with an 11-1 overall record. The Wolverines' lone loss that season occurred in the Rose Bowl against Stanford 13-12 on a field goal with 12 seconds left in the game.

Overall, 16 players from the state of Michigan started at one time or another for the 1971 Wolverine squad. Offensively, Michigan had two quarterbacks start throughout the year, with sophomore Tom Slade (6-1, 200, Saginaw) earning the nod eight times, while fellow sophomore Kevin Casey (6-2, 175, Grand Rapids Catholic Central) started four contests. Sophomore Bob Thornbladh (6-2, 225, Plymouth) started at fullback. At wide receiver, senior Glenn Doughty (6-2, 205, Detroit Pershing) started, while sophomore Paul Seal (6-6, 210, Detroit Pershing) and junior Paul Seymour (6-5, 230, Royal Oak Shrine) started at tight end for the Maize and Blue. Along the offensive line, All-American senior guard Reggie McKenzie (6-4, 235, Highland Park), senior tackle Jim Brandstatter (6-4, 245, East Lansing) and junior tackle Tom Poplawski (6-4, 225, Warren Mott) started for Michigan. Thornbladh, Doughty, Seal, Seymour and McKenzie all went on to play in the NFL.

Defensively, starting up front for the Wolverines were senior end Alden "Butch" Carpenter (6-2, 215, Flint Southwestern), senior tackle Thomas Beckman (6-5, 245, Chesaning), junior tackle Fred Grambau (6-3, 235, Alpena) and All-American senior end Mike Keller (6-3, 220, Grand Rapids Catholic Central). Starting at linebacker were All-American Mike Taylor (6-2, 225, Detroit King) and senior Dana Coin (6-1, 230, Pontiac Northern). In the secondary, junior Randy Logan (6-2, 190, Detroit Northern) started for Michigan. Beckman, Keller, Taylor (first round pick) and Logan all later played in the NFL.

On special teams, Coin starred as a placekicker, booting an NCAA record 55-of-55 PATs for the Wolverines.

It's incredible to me the impact kids from the state of Michigan have had on the building of the Wolverine football program. I think it sometimes gets lost nationally when pundits and commentators from around the nation analyze the Maize and Blue team and its history. Just a quick look at a random squad from U-M's history reinforces my belief the Wolverines' success throughout the years has been built on the strong and sturdy backs of kids from the Great Lakes State.

Also, in doing my brief research on the 1971 Wolverine team, I decided to take a look at the Notre Dame and Michigan State squads from that same year. The "Big Three" as I call them for players from the state of Michigan over the decades, it's mind-boggling the impact and talent each of those schools had during that one season from kids from the Great Lakes State. For the Spartans, future Pro Football Hall-of-Famer guard Joe DeLamielleure (Center Line St. Clement) and future NFL Pro Bowler defensive back/linebacker Brad Van Pelt (Owosso) led the Green and White. For the Fighting Irish, defensive back Clarence Ellis (Grand Rapids Central) and defensive tackles Mike Kadish (Grand Rapids Catholic Central) and Greg Marx (Detroit Catholic Central) starred for Notre Dame. Ellis and Kadish would both later become first round NFL draft picks, while Marx was a second round pick. All three also would earn Playboy Magazine All-American honors.

Did anyone notice all the players from Grand Rapids Catholic Central? Yes youngsters, the Cougars have been a strong program for decades. Michigan signee Jalen Mayfield (6-5, 255 DE-OT, Grand Rapids Catholic Central) one of the top recruits in the nation for the class of 2018, is just the latest in a long line of big-time players from the Grand Rapids powerhouse program.

Nationally, other Michiganders earning All-American honors in 1971 included Hillsdale placekicker Chester Marcol (Imlay City) and Colorado defensive lineman Herb Orvis (Flint Beecher). Marcol would go on to become a legendary and beloved Green Bay Packers kicker, while Orvis would become a first round draft pick and play 10 seasons in the NFL.

McKenzie, Van Pelt and Orvis would later all become enshrined in the College Football Hall of Fame. In the 1972 NFL draft, four of the 26 first round selections were kids from the state of Michigan (Ellis-15th to the Falcons, Orvis-16th to the Lions, Taylor-20th to the Jets and Kadish-25th to the Dolphins).

Anyhow, I just thought it was amazing how much talent the state of Michigan produced during that one 1971 college football season at those three programs and throughout the nation. Just another testament to the ridiculous amount of high school football talent churned out for decades each and every season in the Great Lakes State.

In upcoming blogs, I'll start listing my position-by-position rankings for the class of 2019 and the top underclassmen in the state of Michigan.

Super Bowl LII had a distinct state of Michigan flavor

What a terrific Super Bowl, eh? As usual, the state of Michigan had a high-profile and big impact on the game. The Philadelphia Eagles defeated the New England Patriots 41-33 in Super Bowl LII Sunday night. With minutes remaining in the contest and the Eagles leading 35-33, Philadelphia defensive end Brandon Graham knocked the ball out of Patriot quarterback Tom Brady's hands creating a turnover which was recovered by Philadelphia deep in New England territory. The Eagles then promptly went down the field scoring a touchdown, essentially sealing the Patriots' fate. A last-second Hail Mary pass by Brady was knocked down on New England's ensuing possession, giving Philadelphia its first-ever Super Bowl title.

PHOTO -- Philadelphia Eagles defensive end Brandon Graham (Detroit Crockett Tech/East English Village, U-M) sacks New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady forcing a fumble which was recovered by the Eagles late in the fourth quarter of Super Bowl LII. Photo by Getty Images.

Making the play that turned the tide late in the game was Graham. Graham (6-3, 265) is a Detroit PSL product who attended Detroit Crockett Tech (now Detroit East English Village). Graham later suited up for his home state college, starring at the University of Michigan. Interesting that both Graham and Brady are former Wolverines. Nice to also see Graham being the first Eagle player interviewed after the game. What a well-spoken and humble young man who is a wonderful example of the caliber of person and the level of talent produced each and every year in high school football in the state of Michigan.

Also displaying a dominant state of Michigan presence was the Super Bowl halftime analyst crew. Two of the four commentators on the set were Michiganders, with Jackson Parkside's Tony Dungy and Ann Arbor Pioneer's John Harbaugh sharing the halftime stage with host Dan Patrick and fellow analyst Rodney Harrison. Dungy (Minnesota, NFL) enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, was the first African-American head coach to win a Super Bowl when he guided the Indianapolis Colts to a 29-17 victory over the Chicago Bears in Super Bowl XLI. As a player, Dungy helped the Pittsburgh Steelers win Super Bowl XIII defeating the Dallas Cowboys 35-31 in 1979. Harbaugh (Miami (OH), NFL), current head coach of the Baltimore Ravens, led the Ravens to victory in Super Bowl XLVII defeating the San Francisco 49ers 34-31 in 2013. Dubbed the "Har-Bowl," it was the first and, up to now, the only Super Bowl in which brothers squared off against each other as head coaches in the NFL's biggest game. Head coach of the 49ers was Jim Harbaugh (Ann Arbor Pioneer, Michigan, NFL, current head coach at U-M). Interestingly enough, Dungy and Harbaugh grew up approximately 20-25 minutes away from each other, as Jackson is a short jaunt west of Ann Arbor on I-94.

Though rarely mentioned or spoken about nationally, the state of Michigan can lay claim to two of the most memorable and landmark moments in Super Bowl history.

Michigan's 30 best D-I college football sleepers for class of 2019 -- continued

As usual, life has called, I apologize for being away. Anyway, back to checking out a few more of the state of Michigan's 30 best D-I sleepers for the class of 2019. The following high school juniors are truly all D-I-level football players. If Big Ten, MAC and other D-I schools from throughout the Midwest and nation would take a look at the following guys, I can guarantee they wouldn't be disappointed. These are the type of players that in three or four years in a D-I program (redshirt sophomores or redshirt juniors) would be team leaders, foundation-type players, hardest workers and talented enough to garner postseason honors and NFL looks/interest.

Here are a few of the state of Michigan's 30 best D-I sleeper prospects for the class of 2019 -- 

DE-TE-OT- Evan Orme-6-6, 245-Riverview Gabriel Richard -- This kid has so much potential it's amazing. First off, he's from one of the greatest football towns in Michigan. I consider Riverview to be the state of Michigan's "Cradle of Coaches" (look for an upcoming blog about this story, it's worthy of its own book actually, in my opinion). For a relatively small Downriver Detroit community (southern suburbs), Riverview has produced three of Michigan's most prominent coaches. Bill McCartney (College Football Hall of Fame, won national title at Colorado in 1990 as head coach), Woody Widenhofer (helped Pittsburgh Steelers win four Super Bowls as LB coach and defensive coordinator and was a major architect of the legendary "Steel Curtain" defense, along with being head coach at Missouri and Vanderbilt) and Lloyd Carr (College Football Hall of Fame, longtime Michigan head coach, won national title in 1997) all grew up together in Riverview in the late 1950s-early 1960s and all later played college football at Missouri (with Carr transferring to Northern Michigan University his senior season). Anyhow, as I said earlier, this subject is worthy of its own blog. But back to Riverview's latest high-level D-I prospect, Evan Orme. Orme is a dominating presence on both sides of the line scrimmage for Gabriel Richard. Reportedly running a 4.7 40-yard dash, Orme is also a standout basketball player for the Pioneers. I believe Orme could play DE, TE or OT at the next level. I think with his basketball skills, footwork and athleticism, he might project best to a 6-6, 310 OT protecting a quarterback's blindside. Either way, Orme is a definite sleeper in the state of Michigan, but a D-I prospect for sure.

LB-TE-Boone Bonnema-6-3, 215-Zeeland East (just southwest of Grand Rapids) -- With outstanding quickness and agility for a player his size, Bonnema projects to either side of the football at the next level. I like him as a potential 6-3, 230 OLB, rushing the quarterback or having the ability to play in space defending the pass. A tough match-up as a TE-HB, Bonnema (CMU and WMU offers) also has top-level offensive skills as a receiver, using his speed and athletic ability to make plays. On the same team as DE-OT D-I recruit Adam Berghorst (6-7, 260, Michigan State, Indiana, Minnesota offers), I think Bonnema, who was selected the Holland Sentinel Defensive Player of the Year this past season after recording 103 tackles, including 16 TFL and blocking two punts, is Big Ten-level, as well. In the photos below, Bonnema makes a hard-hitting tackle in the annual game against crosstown rival Zeeland West, while he's also shown standing out front and leading his team during the playing of the National Anthem.

LB-RB- Konner Near-6-1, 205-St. Johns -- A punishing hitter/runner on both sides of the line of scrimmage, St. Johns' Near is one of the most physical players in the state of Michigan. With speed and power, Near, who was named to the Lansing State Journal Dream Team and earned AP Division 3-4 All-State honors this past year, is equally effective as a RB or LB. This past season, Near rushed for 1,377 yards and 21 touchdowns, with a single-game high of 354 yards against Cadillac. While he can take over a contest as a RB, I like Near's potential as a LB at the D-I level. I see him growing to 6-1, 225-235 range and having the quickness and nimbleness of a RB, but the horse-power and physical nature to chase down ball carriers and rush quarterbacks all game long. Near, though a bit unknown and under-recruited at the moment, will be one of the top players and D-I-level prospects next year in the Lansing area. In the photo below, Near is shown doing what he did all of last season, running through tackles and needing multiple defenders to bring him down.

WR-DB-KR-Terryon Liddell-5-11, 170-Saginaw Swan Valley -- One of the most exciting players for the class of 2019, Liddell is a difference-maker in all three phases of the game as a WR, DB or KR. Last season, Liddell helped lead Saginaw Swan Valley to a 12-2 overall record and a Division 5 state runner-up finish. Liddell, who runs a 4.5 40, ended last year with 21 receptions for 498 yards and five touchdowns, while defensively he picked off four passes from his cornerback position. Also an electrifying kick/punt returner, Liddell earned AP Division 5-6 All-State recognition last season. Despite being from a mid-sized school, Liddell, in my opinion, has high-level D-I college football potential. In the photo below, by Mike Clark, Liddell runs for big yardage after stiff-arming a Reed City defender in last year's D-5 state semifinal.

-- Up next, I'll continue listing and talking about Michigan's 30 best D-I college football "sleeper" prospects/recruits for the class of 2019.