As anyone who has read this blog over the years knows, the most important position on the football field, at least in my opinion, is upfront, along the line of scrimmage, in the trenches with the big fellas. No position group is more important than the offensive and defensive lines (or front seven, if you will, on defense). That being said, I start my annual position rankings for the class of 2018. Of course, the first group highlighted will be the offensive line. No other state in the country, pound for pound, turns out more talent along the O-line than the state of Michigan. It seems as if every year the Great Lakes State produces multiple NFL draft picks and/or guys who earn spots on pro teams as free agents. What is amazing about Michigan's talent at the offensive line position, is not only does it develop NFL-level skill at the D-I level, but also at the D-II range. I dare say no other state has more O-line talent from its D-II schools playing in the NFL right now than Michigan. That being said, here are my Top 10 offensive line prospects for Michigan's class of 2018. It is truly one of the finest years for offensive linemen in the Great Lakes State in recent memory. Michigan's five D-I playing football schools (along with its D-II powers), if they so decided, could stock its entire O-line recruiting class for 2018 with just players from the state and be successful.
Michigan's Top 10 offensive line prospects for the class of 2018 --
1. Marquan McCall-6-4, 325-Oak Park- Absolute beast down low in the trenches for the Knights. This kid could step into any college program and compete for a starting spot immediately. McCall is similar to Michael Jordan (Plymouth), who started last season for Ohio State at guard as a true freshman, in college-ready talent and size. Verbal to Kentucky.
2. Cody Carone-6-5, 320-Rockford- I love this kid. I'm surprised he isn't getting more attention from the Big Ten or nationally. From a dominant Grand Rapids-area powerhouse which has produced multiple D-I and NFL offensive linemen (including current Pro Bowler Joe Staley of the San Francisco 49ers), Carone can play any position along the O-line. With size, tenacity, natural skill upfront and top-flight coaching and competition at the prep level, Carone is one of the best offensive line prospects in the Midwest.
3. Ryan Hayes-6-7, 270-Traverse City West- The consummate left tackle prospect, Hayes is being recruited by all the D-I powerhouse programs. A tight end by trade, Hayes has the frame and footwork to develop over time into a 6-7, 315-pound quarterback blind side protector of the highest degree. Similar to another Traverse City offensive line product, Jake Fisher (Oregon, current NFL, Cincinnati Bengals), Hayes has the arm length and athleticism to become the prototypical left tackle at the next level and beyond. Verbal to Michigan
4. Antwan Reed-6-7, 295-Muskegon-A three-year starter for the state power Big Reds, Reed is an overwhelming force in the trenches. He is another player who reminds me of Michael Jordan (Plymouth, OSU starter as frosh), but mainly because they are similar in stature and in the fact both are OT size, but can also excel inside at OG. Verbal to Penn State.
5. Tyrone Sampson-6-4, 295-Detroit East English Village-A massive presence in the middle at center for East English Village, Sampson is also an accomplished D-line prospect, as well. Ranked by some national publications as the No. 2 center prospect in the country, Sampson will be a three-year starter for a program which has produced current NFL players Brandon Graham (DE Philadelphia Eagles/U-M) and Tony Lippett (CB Miami Dolphins/MSU), along with future NFLer and Thorpe Award winner Desmond King (CB Iowa) and multiple current D-I players. How he got out of the state of Michigan is baffling to me. Verbal to Syracuse.
6. Michael Furtney-6-5, 285-Milan-A fluid and well-balanced O-lineman, Furtney is an outstanding prospect from the Ann Arbor area. He can play inside or outside along the line of scrimmage. Physical, yet technically sound, with efficient angle bend and footwork. Verbal to Wisconsin.
7. Alex Howie-6-5, 315-Plymouth-Like Furtney, Howie could play inside or outside at the next level. With good mobility and instincts, Howie will be a three-year starter for the Rocks.
8. Carlos Vettorello-6-4, 285-U-D Jesuit- With an offer from Wisconsin already on the table, Vettorello is a strong, bull-like blocker up front for the Cubs. Former teammate Scott Nelson (FS-WR class of 2017) committed to the Badgers last February. Arguably the best O-line prospect in the nationally renowned Detroit Catholic League, Vettorello is one of the Midwest's prime recruits in the trenches. Besides the Badgers, Vettorello holds offers from Iowa, Oregon State, Minnesota, Indiana and Kentucky.
9. Nick Carey-6-7, 290-Detroit Catholic Central-A bruising, physical behemoth from one of the nation's top high school football programs, Carey is the latest in a long line of top-flight Shamrock offensive linemen. Tom Kowalski (Boston College, class of 2016) and Blake Bueter (MSU, class of 2017) have been Catholic Central's most recent D-I O-line recruits and Carey is in their class, as well. Returning starter for D-1 state runner-up.
10. (Tie) Jacob Wohlgemuth-6-5, 305-Wyoming Kelloggsville-A sleeper-type, under-the-radar player, Wohlgemuth has Big Ten-level size and potential. Arguably the Rockets' best D-I prospect in years, Wohlgemuth has overwhelming size and power. The Grand Rapids-area bulldozer is one of the best run blockers in the state of Michigan. Jimmy Bell-6-10, 315-Saginaw Arthur Hill-Amazing talent. One of the biggest players in the country. A two-sport standout. Has offers from Iowa State, Oakland U. and Tulsa for basketball, plus offers from Ball State, Akron and EMU for football. Look for many more offers for both sports to come as Bell's senior season approaches. Obviously, long arms and basketball feet/athleticism make Bell an outstanding left tackle prospect at the next level. Raw, but the potential is truly off the charts for this young man. Purdue, Indiana, Illinois, etc. where are you on this prospect?
Other top O-line prospects for the class of 2018 in Michigan (all are D-I prospects at the high, mid to low levels) - Mike Pellizzari-6-4, 305-OT-Flint Powers Catholic (will be three-year starter), Gio Agazzi-6-4, 285-OT-OG-Livonia Stevenson (will be three-year starter), Patrick Donovan-6-5, 290-OT-Macomb Dakota (325 bench press, 515 squat, 5.1 40), Sam Sherwin-6-5, 270-OT-Traverse City Central, Lucas Tesznar-6-5, 305-OT-Ottawa Lake Whiteford (Div. 7-8 AP All-State, returning starter for D-8 state runner-up), Andrew Paxton-6-4, 275-OT-Detroit Catholic Central (returning starter for D-1 state runner-up), Keontae Watson-6-5, 285-OT-DT-Muskegon Mona Shores, Javon Foster-6-6, 300-OT-West Bloomfield (CMU verbal), Cameron Wirtz-6-5, 285-OT-Battle Creek Lakeview, Evan Gast-6-2, 285-C-Byron Center (also top HWT wrestler), Chris Rexroth-6-6, 275-C-Farmington Hills Harrison, Jake Achterhoff-6-6, 285-OT-North Muskegon, Jeremy Hall-6-3, 315-OG-Homer (Battle Creek Enquirer All-Area first team as junior), Gabe Moore-6-3, 290-OG-Olivet (500-pound squat), Malachi Price-6-2, 305-OG-DT-Grand Rapids Christian, Nate Millard-6-5, 330-OT-Belleville, Jacob Kochanny-6-4, 270-OT-Cadillac, Cole Schut-6-4, 270-OG-Holland, Jacob Seager-6-5, 285-OT-Kalamazoo Central, Colin Motloch-6-4, 275-OT-Utica, Matt Stefanski-6-4, 305-OT-DT-Frankfort (Div. 7-8 AP All-State selection), Dimitri Douglas-6-5, 285-OT-Saline (Michigan State verbal), Brendan Ehrhart-6-1, 265-C-Bay City All Saints (Bay City Times Dream Team), Johnathan Hardy-6-4, 280-OT-DT-Bay City John Glenn (also plays hoops, runs 4.7 40), Noah Nicklin-6-4, 265-OT-Clarkston (Detroit News All-North second team), John O'Brien-6-5, 250-OT-Charlotte (Bowling Green State verbal), James Drain-6-2, 255-OG-Detroit East English Village, Aric Thomas-6-2, 305-OG-Detroit King, Jeremiah Hardge-6-3, 270-OT-Detroit King (Detroit News All-Detroit second team), Sean Pilon-6-3, 285-OG-Dearborn Divine Child, Andrew LeFebre-6-3, 255-OT-Lowell, Chase Cosey-6-3, 300-OT-Northville, Parker Kingma-6-4, 315-OT-Grand Haven, Nathan Rohr-6-4, 285-OT-Allendale, Matt Eerdmans-6-4, 265-OT-East Grand Rapids, Austin Musser-6-6, 265-OT-DT-Harrison (runs 4.7 40), Tyler Brooks-6-6, 290-OT-Corunna, Andrew Sikkema-6-2, 275-OG-McBain, Alex Clark-6-3, 260-OG-Grand Rapids Forest Hills Northern, Christian Balanda-6-6, 265-OT-Grand Rapids Forest Hills Central, Mitchell Gorman-6-5, 240-OT-Lowell, Paul Weirich-6-4, 265-OT-Grand Rapids Forest Hills Eastern (three-year starter), Jacob Vigliotti-6-4, 325-OT-DT-Petersburg-Summerfield, Josh Mayberry-6-2, 285-C-OG-Detroit King, Bryan Johnson-6-5, 320-OT-DT-Holland West Ottawa, Kaleb McMann-6-5, 270-OT-Muskegon Orchard View. Derian Doherty-6-4, 280-OT-Utica Eisenhower, Quinton Barrow-6-5, 290-OT-Romulus (Bowling Green State, Toledo offers).
Next up- Michigan's class of 2018 Top 10 defensive linemen.
Sunday, April 23, 2017
Sunday, February 26, 2017
Explosive, productive, D-I prospects for Michigan's class of 2018, Part Two
In an earlier post I listed five of Michigan's most explosive and productive D-I football prospects for the class of 2018. Here, in this post, are the next five high-level D-I recruits from the Great Lakes State who bring a certain level of power, acceleration and quickness not normally seen at the high school level.
-- Elijah Collins-6-2, 195-WR-RB-LB-U-D Jesuit- One of Michigan's top all-around athletes, Collins is a two-sport star who also could play basketball at the next level. A starter for the defending Class A state champion Cubs on the hardcourt, Collins is also one of the Midwest's best on the gridiron. An explosive leaper with elite quickness, Collins earned Detroit News All-Detroit first team honors last season as a WR. I see him gaining 30 pounds or so at the next level and playing OLB at 6-2, 225 or possibly WR at 6-2, 215 and being a difference-maker at either position.
-- Cody Blankenburg-5-9, 165-CB-RB-Lansing Sexton- Proverbial lock down corner for Lansing powerhouse program Sexton. A Lansing State Journal Dream Team member last year as a junior, Blankenburg intercepted five passes and recorded 38 tackles as the Lansing area's top cover corner a season ago. Offensively, Blankenburg is an explosive force, rushing for 1,113 yards and scoring 16 touchdowns last year. A standout two-way performer, Blankenburg is a definite D-I prospect and one of the Lansing area's top college football recruits for 2018.
-- Maurice White-6-5, 250-DE-Detroit King- On a team filled with talent, White is an under-publicized, high-level D-I prospect as a defensive end. A top player on last season's Division 2 state championship squad, White has explosive pass-rushing skills. A bit raw, but with long arms and speed off the edge, White is an outstanding prospect who will only get bigger, stronger and faster at the next level. A Big Ten-level recruit, White could develop into something special for a well-organized D-I program smart enough to find and sign this sleeper-type (at least for a program the caliber of King) player.
-- Jaylan Franklin-6-5, 205-WR-LB-DE-Gibraltar Carlson- Truly one of Michigan's most explosive and talented players whose ceiling is off the charts. I have been high on this player since his sophomore year. He continues to get better and better overall. What I like most about Franklin is his all around athletic ability and football skill. He can play multiple positions and has the body frame to add muscle and weight at the next level. I envision Franklin playing defensive end at the D-I level at 6-5, 245 or 6-5, 255 and being an incredible edge rusher, yet strong enough and athletic enough to make tackles at the line of scrimmage or behind it. Like Maurice White, Franklin isn't being as highly recruited as I would like (though Michigan State has offered and Kentucky and Minnesota are reportedly actively recruiting him), though his ability and potential are undeniable.
-- Brandon Green-6-2, 200-WR-LB-Detroit Mumford- Like Elijah Collins, Green is a two-sport standout, starring on Mumford's hoops team, as well as its football squad. A high-level Detroit Public School League prospect, Green is an explosive, fast player who is a sleeper of sorts, but a bonafide D-I, Big Ten-level recruit. With 4.5 speed and two-sport athleticism in one of the nation's top D-I football producing leagues, Green is another player who could add solid weight and muscle mass at the next level and compete at 6-2, 230 as a LB or 6-2, 210 as a physical, over-the-middle type WR.
-- Elijah Collins-6-2, 195-WR-RB-LB-U-D Jesuit- One of Michigan's top all-around athletes, Collins is a two-sport star who also could play basketball at the next level. A starter for the defending Class A state champion Cubs on the hardcourt, Collins is also one of the Midwest's best on the gridiron. An explosive leaper with elite quickness, Collins earned Detroit News All-Detroit first team honors last season as a WR. I see him gaining 30 pounds or so at the next level and playing OLB at 6-2, 225 or possibly WR at 6-2, 215 and being a difference-maker at either position.
-- Cody Blankenburg-5-9, 165-CB-RB-Lansing Sexton- Proverbial lock down corner for Lansing powerhouse program Sexton. A Lansing State Journal Dream Team member last year as a junior, Blankenburg intercepted five passes and recorded 38 tackles as the Lansing area's top cover corner a season ago. Offensively, Blankenburg is an explosive force, rushing for 1,113 yards and scoring 16 touchdowns last year. A standout two-way performer, Blankenburg is a definite D-I prospect and one of the Lansing area's top college football recruits for 2018.
-- Maurice White-6-5, 250-DE-Detroit King- On a team filled with talent, White is an under-publicized, high-level D-I prospect as a defensive end. A top player on last season's Division 2 state championship squad, White has explosive pass-rushing skills. A bit raw, but with long arms and speed off the edge, White is an outstanding prospect who will only get bigger, stronger and faster at the next level. A Big Ten-level recruit, White could develop into something special for a well-organized D-I program smart enough to find and sign this sleeper-type (at least for a program the caliber of King) player.
-- Jaylan Franklin-6-5, 205-WR-LB-DE-Gibraltar Carlson- Truly one of Michigan's most explosive and talented players whose ceiling is off the charts. I have been high on this player since his sophomore year. He continues to get better and better overall. What I like most about Franklin is his all around athletic ability and football skill. He can play multiple positions and has the body frame to add muscle and weight at the next level. I envision Franklin playing defensive end at the D-I level at 6-5, 245 or 6-5, 255 and being an incredible edge rusher, yet strong enough and athletic enough to make tackles at the line of scrimmage or behind it. Like Maurice White, Franklin isn't being as highly recruited as I would like (though Michigan State has offered and Kentucky and Minnesota are reportedly actively recruiting him), though his ability and potential are undeniable.
-- Brandon Green-6-2, 200-WR-LB-Detroit Mumford- Like Elijah Collins, Green is a two-sport standout, starring on Mumford's hoops team, as well as its football squad. A high-level Detroit Public School League prospect, Green is an explosive, fast player who is a sleeper of sorts, but a bonafide D-I, Big Ten-level recruit. With 4.5 speed and two-sport athleticism in one of the nation's top D-I football producing leagues, Green is another player who could add solid weight and muscle mass at the next level and compete at 6-2, 230 as a LB or 6-2, 210 as a physical, over-the-middle type WR.
Friday, February 17, 2017
Explosive, productive D-I-level football sleepers for Michigan's class of 2018
My goodness gracious, I have been gone way too long. Sorry, y'all. As I've said many times before on this site, life happens... There is so much to catch up on. This post is just a quick list of some of the most intriguing, explosive, productive and talented Division I college football prospects (and I think under publicized) for the class of 2018 in Michigan.
-- Xavier Wade-6-2, 180-WR-Holland West Ottawa --The latest big-time D-I talent from West Ottawa (Rob Renes-DT-U-M, NFL; Ray Holliman-DT-Ohio State; Matt Vanderbeek-LB-MSU, Desmond Morgan-LB-U-M are just a few Panthers who went on to star at the next level), Wade is arguably the best wide receiver prospect on Michigan's west side. A Grand Rapids Press Dream Team member as a junior, Wade had 61 receptions for 1,033 yards and nine touchdowns last season. With his big body and athleticism, Wade is a match-up nightmare for most DBs assigned to cover him.
-- Darius Pruitt-6-3, 190-DB-Kalamazoo Central -- Like Wade, Pruitt comes from a program rich in producing big-time D-I/NFL football talent (Greg Jennings-WR-WMU, NFL; Jerome Harrison-RB-Washington State, NFL; Duane Young-TE-MSU, NFL; Scott Rehberg-OT-CMU, NFL). A lanky, fast, ball-hawk, Pruitt (think Tony Lippett-Detroit Crockett/East English Village, MSU, NFL, starting corner for the Miami Dolphins) covers a lot of ground as a safety for the Maroon Giants. Last season, Pruitt intercepted six passes en route to earning Kalamazoo Gazette Dream Team accolades.
-- Dequez Weathers-6-0, 185-RB-DB-Bay City Central -- An explosive game-breaker from the running back position, Weathers has a nose for the end zone. Last season, he rushed for 1,443 yards and 16 TDs. An all-around athlete, Weathers (4.5 40) could also play on the defensive side of the ball at the D-I level as a safety.
-- Nathan Bellinger-6-5, 245-DE-Ithaca -- An absolute terror as a rush defensive end for the perennial state powerhouse Yellowjackets, Bellinger earned Division 5-6 All-State last season. Long-armed and quick off the edge, Bellinger had 107 tackles and 12 TFL as a junior last year. I project Bellinger to possibly flesh out at 6-6, 270 at the next level and become a beast as a DE or inside at DT.
-- Ladarius Jefferson-6-2, 215-LB-QB-Muskegon -- This kid is one of my top recruits in the state of Michigan for the class of 2018. Watching the D-3 state championship game against Orchard Lake St. Mary's last year, Jefferson stood out the brightest in a contest filled with D-I talent on both sides. A bonafide D-I QB prospect (think OSU's J.T, Barrett), I like Jefferson as a linebacker. With senior teammate Andrew Ward (6-1, 215, Nebraska commit) and sophomore superstar Ali'Vonta Wallace (6-1, 210) teaming with Jefferson, the Big Reds had one of the best LB corps in the Midwest last season. The speed, tackling ability and explosiveness Jefferson showed in the state final game, along with his leadership skills, put him, in my opinion, near Ward's level already (and that is HIGH praise) as a junior. I can see Jefferson as a 6-2, 240-pound headhunter at the D-I level -- an Alabama-like physical, powerful bone-crusher in four years.
-- Xavier Wade-6-2, 180-WR-Holland West Ottawa --The latest big-time D-I talent from West Ottawa (Rob Renes-DT-U-M, NFL; Ray Holliman-DT-Ohio State; Matt Vanderbeek-LB-MSU, Desmond Morgan-LB-U-M are just a few Panthers who went on to star at the next level), Wade is arguably the best wide receiver prospect on Michigan's west side. A Grand Rapids Press Dream Team member as a junior, Wade had 61 receptions for 1,033 yards and nine touchdowns last season. With his big body and athleticism, Wade is a match-up nightmare for most DBs assigned to cover him.
-- Darius Pruitt-6-3, 190-DB-Kalamazoo Central -- Like Wade, Pruitt comes from a program rich in producing big-time D-I/NFL football talent (Greg Jennings-WR-WMU, NFL; Jerome Harrison-RB-Washington State, NFL; Duane Young-TE-MSU, NFL; Scott Rehberg-OT-CMU, NFL). A lanky, fast, ball-hawk, Pruitt (think Tony Lippett-Detroit Crockett/East English Village, MSU, NFL, starting corner for the Miami Dolphins) covers a lot of ground as a safety for the Maroon Giants. Last season, Pruitt intercepted six passes en route to earning Kalamazoo Gazette Dream Team accolades.
-- Dequez Weathers-6-0, 185-RB-DB-Bay City Central -- An explosive game-breaker from the running back position, Weathers has a nose for the end zone. Last season, he rushed for 1,443 yards and 16 TDs. An all-around athlete, Weathers (4.5 40) could also play on the defensive side of the ball at the D-I level as a safety.
-- Nathan Bellinger-6-5, 245-DE-Ithaca -- An absolute terror as a rush defensive end for the perennial state powerhouse Yellowjackets, Bellinger earned Division 5-6 All-State last season. Long-armed and quick off the edge, Bellinger had 107 tackles and 12 TFL as a junior last year. I project Bellinger to possibly flesh out at 6-6, 270 at the next level and become a beast as a DE or inside at DT.
-- Ladarius Jefferson-6-2, 215-LB-QB-Muskegon -- This kid is one of my top recruits in the state of Michigan for the class of 2018. Watching the D-3 state championship game against Orchard Lake St. Mary's last year, Jefferson stood out the brightest in a contest filled with D-I talent on both sides. A bonafide D-I QB prospect (think OSU's J.T, Barrett), I like Jefferson as a linebacker. With senior teammate Andrew Ward (6-1, 215, Nebraska commit) and sophomore superstar Ali'Vonta Wallace (6-1, 210) teaming with Jefferson, the Big Reds had one of the best LB corps in the Midwest last season. The speed, tackling ability and explosiveness Jefferson showed in the state final game, along with his leadership skills, put him, in my opinion, near Ward's level already (and that is HIGH praise) as a junior. I can see Jefferson as a 6-2, 240-pound headhunter at the D-I level -- an Alabama-like physical, powerful bone-crusher in four years.
Sunday, September 20, 2015
Michigan players stand out in NFL action this week
Well, since I was able to watch some college football yesterday, today, I've actually been able to catch a few NFL contests, as well. I normally have so much else going on I'm unable to spend two straight weekend days watching the game I love so much. That being said, today's NFL action featured so many players from the state of Michigan, it was incredible. Just goes to show the level of talent being developed and produced by the Great Lakes State year after year.
I need to start out with the New Orleans Saints and their clash with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Though losing to the Bucs 26-19, Saints' WR Willie Snead (Muskegon Heights/Holland Christian, Ball State) had a fantastic game finishing with four receptions for 44 yards and one touchdown. I remember watching Snead in the state championship game at Ford Field when he played for Holland Christian and thinking he had the best hands I'd ever seen for a high school receiver. I was shocked when he signed with Ball State and not a Big Ten program. Also starting for the Saints were RB Mark Ingram Jr. (Flint Southwestern, Alabama), who finished with 53 yards rushing on 16 attempts with one TD and OG Tim Lelito (St. Clair, Grand Valley State). Lelito is another player overlooked and misevaluated by Michigan's five D-I playing college football programs. Hopefully, those days of poor instate recruiting/knowledge are over for Michigan's D-I playing schools. For Tampa Bay, DE Will Gholston (Detroit Southeastern, MSU) and K Kyle Brindza (Plymouth, Notre Dame) saw action, while OT Reid Fragel (Grosse Pointe South, Ohio State) made the Buccaneers' practice squad.
In the Philadelphia Eagles-Dallas Cowboys game, multiple Michigan natives suited up for both squads. On defense for the Eagles, LB Connor Barwin (U-D Jesuit, Cincinnati) and LB Brandon Graham (Detroit Crockett, now Detroit East English Village, U-M) both started and played well, while LB Brad Jones (East Lansing, Colorado) also saw action. For the Cowboys, CB Brandon Carr (Flint Carmen-Ainsworth, Grand Valley State) started and is one of the NFL's best at his position. Making plays on special teams and in the secondary for Dallas was S Jeff Heath (Lake Orion, Saginaw Valley State).
Watching the Oakland Raiders-Baltimore Ravens contest, it was interesting seeing head coach John Harbaugh (Ann Arbor Pioneer, Miami (OH)) prowling the sidelines for the Ravens. Harbaugh doesn't get as much publicity as his younger brother Jim Harbaugh (head coach at U-M), but, in my opinion, John is one of the NFL's best coaches. Also suiting up for Baltimore was DE Jason Babin (Paw Paw, WMU) and DT Carl Davis (Sterling Heights Stevenson, Iowa). On the Ravens' practice squad are DT Micajah Reynolds (Lansing Sexton, MSU) and LB Brennen Beyer (Plymouth, U-M).
Other Michigan players I noticed throughout the day competing at the highest football level were Minnesota Vikings RB Zach Line (Oxford, SMU), LB Audie Cole (Monroe, North Carolina State) and C Joe Berger (Newaygo, Michigan Tech) , Jacksonville Jaguars WR Allen Robinson (Orchard Lake St. Mary's, Penn State), who finished with six catches for 155 yards and two TDs and LB Dan Skuta (Flint Powers Catholic, Grand Valley State) and Washington Redskins QB Kirk Cousins (Holland Christian, MSU), who ended up 23-of-27 passing for 203 yards and one TD. Cousins led the Redskins to a 24-10 win over the St. Louis Rams.
In the Sunday Night Football primetime game between the Green Bay Packers and Seattle Seahawks, a large contingent of Michigan players saw action for both squads. For the Packers, OG T.J. Lang (Birmingham Brother Rice, EMU) and DE/LB Nick Perry (Detroit King, USC) started, while WR Jeff Janis (Tawas, Saginaw Valley State) contributed on special teams. For Seattle, RB Thomas Rawls (Flint Northern, U-M/CMU) saw action in the backfield. It was nice seeing Rawls make an NFL roster and playing under the bright primetime lights at Lambeau Field, since I always thought he was woefully overlooked at U-M and seemed to receive somewhat of a raw deal while in Ann Arbor. I have no idea why he didn't see more action while playing for the Maize and Blue. Though, I guess, a lot of things haven't made much sense in Ann Arbor these past few seasons. Hopefully, the ship has been righted at U-M with the new coaching staff/culture. Either way, the cream always rises to the top and Rawls wouldn't be making an NFL roster if he didn't have big time, elite skills as a running back. It was nice seeing him finally getting his just rewards.
I need to start out with the New Orleans Saints and their clash with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Though losing to the Bucs 26-19, Saints' WR Willie Snead (Muskegon Heights/Holland Christian, Ball State) had a fantastic game finishing with four receptions for 44 yards and one touchdown. I remember watching Snead in the state championship game at Ford Field when he played for Holland Christian and thinking he had the best hands I'd ever seen for a high school receiver. I was shocked when he signed with Ball State and not a Big Ten program. Also starting for the Saints were RB Mark Ingram Jr. (Flint Southwestern, Alabama), who finished with 53 yards rushing on 16 attempts with one TD and OG Tim Lelito (St. Clair, Grand Valley State). Lelito is another player overlooked and misevaluated by Michigan's five D-I playing college football programs. Hopefully, those days of poor instate recruiting/knowledge are over for Michigan's D-I playing schools. For Tampa Bay, DE Will Gholston (Detroit Southeastern, MSU) and K Kyle Brindza (Plymouth, Notre Dame) saw action, while OT Reid Fragel (Grosse Pointe South, Ohio State) made the Buccaneers' practice squad.
In the Philadelphia Eagles-Dallas Cowboys game, multiple Michigan natives suited up for both squads. On defense for the Eagles, LB Connor Barwin (U-D Jesuit, Cincinnati) and LB Brandon Graham (Detroit Crockett, now Detroit East English Village, U-M) both started and played well, while LB Brad Jones (East Lansing, Colorado) also saw action. For the Cowboys, CB Brandon Carr (Flint Carmen-Ainsworth, Grand Valley State) started and is one of the NFL's best at his position. Making plays on special teams and in the secondary for Dallas was S Jeff Heath (Lake Orion, Saginaw Valley State).
Watching the Oakland Raiders-Baltimore Ravens contest, it was interesting seeing head coach John Harbaugh (Ann Arbor Pioneer, Miami (OH)) prowling the sidelines for the Ravens. Harbaugh doesn't get as much publicity as his younger brother Jim Harbaugh (head coach at U-M), but, in my opinion, John is one of the NFL's best coaches. Also suiting up for Baltimore was DE Jason Babin (Paw Paw, WMU) and DT Carl Davis (Sterling Heights Stevenson, Iowa). On the Ravens' practice squad are DT Micajah Reynolds (Lansing Sexton, MSU) and LB Brennen Beyer (Plymouth, U-M).
Other Michigan players I noticed throughout the day competing at the highest football level were Minnesota Vikings RB Zach Line (Oxford, SMU), LB Audie Cole (Monroe, North Carolina State) and C Joe Berger (Newaygo, Michigan Tech) , Jacksonville Jaguars WR Allen Robinson (Orchard Lake St. Mary's, Penn State), who finished with six catches for 155 yards and two TDs and LB Dan Skuta (Flint Powers Catholic, Grand Valley State) and Washington Redskins QB Kirk Cousins (Holland Christian, MSU), who ended up 23-of-27 passing for 203 yards and one TD. Cousins led the Redskins to a 24-10 win over the St. Louis Rams.
In the Sunday Night Football primetime game between the Green Bay Packers and Seattle Seahawks, a large contingent of Michigan players saw action for both squads. For the Packers, OG T.J. Lang (Birmingham Brother Rice, EMU) and DE/LB Nick Perry (Detroit King, USC) started, while WR Jeff Janis (Tawas, Saginaw Valley State) contributed on special teams. For Seattle, RB Thomas Rawls (Flint Northern, U-M/CMU) saw action in the backfield. It was nice seeing Rawls make an NFL roster and playing under the bright primetime lights at Lambeau Field, since I always thought he was woefully overlooked at U-M and seemed to receive somewhat of a raw deal while in Ann Arbor. I have no idea why he didn't see more action while playing for the Maize and Blue. Though, I guess, a lot of things haven't made much sense in Ann Arbor these past few seasons. Hopefully, the ship has been righted at U-M with the new coaching staff/culture. Either way, the cream always rises to the top and Rawls wouldn't be making an NFL roster if he didn't have big time, elite skills as a running back. It was nice seeing him finally getting his just rewards.
Michigan kids shine in college football games
Wow, I'm always amazed, though I should know better, whenever I get the chance to actually sit down and watch a full day of college football (yes, I ate an entire large pepperoni pizza and washed it down with a two-liter of Pepsi while sitting in my Lazy-Boy for almost 12 hours straight -- who doesn't??) how many Michigan kids are playing in the games I get a chance to watch (or see highlights of).
I'm not even going to comment on the MSU or U-M games, there are just too many Michigan players to mention. Though senior WR Aaron Burbridge (6-1, 195, Farmington Hills Harrison) had quite a day for No. 4-ranked MSU catching three touchdown passes, including one of the best TD receptions of the young college football season. That being said, it was enjoyable to watch junior OT Chauncey Briggs (6-6, 300, West Bloomfield) start for SMU in the Mustangs' 56-37 loss to No. 3-ranked TCU. Briggs is a three-year starter for SMU (1-2 overall).
Staying on the O-line, I watched junior OG Steve Elmer (6-5, 315, Midland) start for No. 8-ranked Notre Dame (3-0) in the Irish's 30-22 victory over Georgia Tech. Elmer is a three-year starter for Notre Dame. On the sidelines, West Bloomfield native and Wayne State grad Brian Van Gorder was barking out instructions and flashing signs as defensive coordinator for the Irish.
In the Northern Illinois-Ohio State game, it was interesting to see redshirt junior OG Ron (formerly Daron) Brown (6-3, 345, Detroit Mumford) start for the Huskies (2-1), who gave the host No. 1-ranked Buckeyes a scare before falling 20-13. In the coaches booth, I believe I spotted Chelsea native and Northwestern grad Joe Tripodi. Tripodi, in his sixth season with NIU, is an assistant coach/offensive line coach for the Huskies. Tripodi was a two-year starter at OG for Northwestern in the early 2000s.
In Penn State's 28-3 win over Rutgers, senior DT Anthony Zettel (6-4, 285, West Branch Ogemaw Heights) started for the Nittany Lions (2-1). A returning All-Big Ten player, Zettel, a three-year starter, should be playing on Sundays next year.
In Iowa's thrilling 27-24 win over Pittsburgh, junior CB Desmond King (5-11, 200, Detroit Crocket, now Detroit East English Village) started for the Hawkeyes (3-0). King, a three-year starter, had a terrific game finishing with two interceptions, eight tackles and one tackle for loss. For Pitt, another former Detroit Public School League standout, sophomore CB Avonte Maddox (5-9, 170, Detroit King) started for the Panthers. Maddox, a two-year starter, had a strong game, as well, ending up with nine tackles, one tackle for loss and one pass break-up. On the coaching side, Maddox is mentored by PSL legend Renaldo Hill (Detroit Chadsey, MSU-where he was All-Big Ten and a Spartan captain, NFL-10-year career as a DB), who is Pitt's defensive backs coach.
In Tennessee's 55-10 victory over Western Carolina, freshman RB John Kelly (5-9, 215, Oak Park) is the Volunteers' No. 2 back, seeing plenty of action in his inaugural season in Knoxville. Against Western Carolina, Kelly had a team-leading 13 rushing attempts for 59 yards for Tennessee (2-1). A noticeable omission from the Vols' line-up is redshirt junior DT Dan O'Brien (6-2, 305, Flint Powers Catholic), a two-year starter and leader upfront for Tennessee. For undisclosed reasons, O'Brien has been suspended by the Vols for the past two contests. Let's hope everything clears up -- O'Brien has an NFL future. On the sidelines, Tennessee is led by head coach Butch Jones, a Saugatuck native and Ferris State grad.
Finally, in the CMU-Syracuse contest, the visiting Chippewas (1-2) battled hard before falling 30-27 in OT to the Orangemen (3-0). Junior QB Cooper Rush (6-3, 225, Lansing Catholic Central) finished 37-of-51 passing for 430 yards and two TDs for CMU. Senior TE Ben McCord (6-4, 240, Warren Cousino) had an outstanding game for the Chips with 10 catches for 147 yards and one TD. At running back, sophomore Devon Spalding (5-11, 205, Westland John Glenn) had a fine, all-around performance for CMU ending up with 185 total yards (rushing and receiving) and one touchdown. The Chippewas could be one of the best 1-2 squads in the country, losing to Oklahoma State 24-13 and defeating Monmouth 31-10. CMU's two losses have come by a combined 14 points. Of Central's 22 starters, 18 come from the state of Michigan. The Chippewas are led by head coach John Bonamego, a Paw Paw native and CMU graduate. For Syracuse (3-0), redshirt junior DE Ron Thompson (6-3, 255, Southfield) finished with five tackles and three tackles for losses for 21 yards. Thompson, another NFL prospect, is a two-year starter for the Orangemen. Also starting for Syracuse was sophomore LB Parris Bennett (6-0, 215, U-D Jesuit). Bennett led the Orangemen with 10 tackles and one tackle for loss.
I'm not even going to comment on the MSU or U-M games, there are just too many Michigan players to mention. Though senior WR Aaron Burbridge (6-1, 195, Farmington Hills Harrison) had quite a day for No. 4-ranked MSU catching three touchdown passes, including one of the best TD receptions of the young college football season. That being said, it was enjoyable to watch junior OT Chauncey Briggs (6-6, 300, West Bloomfield) start for SMU in the Mustangs' 56-37 loss to No. 3-ranked TCU. Briggs is a three-year starter for SMU (1-2 overall).
Staying on the O-line, I watched junior OG Steve Elmer (6-5, 315, Midland) start for No. 8-ranked Notre Dame (3-0) in the Irish's 30-22 victory over Georgia Tech. Elmer is a three-year starter for Notre Dame. On the sidelines, West Bloomfield native and Wayne State grad Brian Van Gorder was barking out instructions and flashing signs as defensive coordinator for the Irish.
In the Northern Illinois-Ohio State game, it was interesting to see redshirt junior OG Ron (formerly Daron) Brown (6-3, 345, Detroit Mumford) start for the Huskies (2-1), who gave the host No. 1-ranked Buckeyes a scare before falling 20-13. In the coaches booth, I believe I spotted Chelsea native and Northwestern grad Joe Tripodi. Tripodi, in his sixth season with NIU, is an assistant coach/offensive line coach for the Huskies. Tripodi was a two-year starter at OG for Northwestern in the early 2000s.
In Penn State's 28-3 win over Rutgers, senior DT Anthony Zettel (6-4, 285, West Branch Ogemaw Heights) started for the Nittany Lions (2-1). A returning All-Big Ten player, Zettel, a three-year starter, should be playing on Sundays next year.
In Iowa's thrilling 27-24 win over Pittsburgh, junior CB Desmond King (5-11, 200, Detroit Crocket, now Detroit East English Village) started for the Hawkeyes (3-0). King, a three-year starter, had a terrific game finishing with two interceptions, eight tackles and one tackle for loss. For Pitt, another former Detroit Public School League standout, sophomore CB Avonte Maddox (5-9, 170, Detroit King) started for the Panthers. Maddox, a two-year starter, had a strong game, as well, ending up with nine tackles, one tackle for loss and one pass break-up. On the coaching side, Maddox is mentored by PSL legend Renaldo Hill (Detroit Chadsey, MSU-where he was All-Big Ten and a Spartan captain, NFL-10-year career as a DB), who is Pitt's defensive backs coach.
In Tennessee's 55-10 victory over Western Carolina, freshman RB John Kelly (5-9, 215, Oak Park) is the Volunteers' No. 2 back, seeing plenty of action in his inaugural season in Knoxville. Against Western Carolina, Kelly had a team-leading 13 rushing attempts for 59 yards for Tennessee (2-1). A noticeable omission from the Vols' line-up is redshirt junior DT Dan O'Brien (6-2, 305, Flint Powers Catholic), a two-year starter and leader upfront for Tennessee. For undisclosed reasons, O'Brien has been suspended by the Vols for the past two contests. Let's hope everything clears up -- O'Brien has an NFL future. On the sidelines, Tennessee is led by head coach Butch Jones, a Saugatuck native and Ferris State grad.
Finally, in the CMU-Syracuse contest, the visiting Chippewas (1-2) battled hard before falling 30-27 in OT to the Orangemen (3-0). Junior QB Cooper Rush (6-3, 225, Lansing Catholic Central) finished 37-of-51 passing for 430 yards and two TDs for CMU. Senior TE Ben McCord (6-4, 240, Warren Cousino) had an outstanding game for the Chips with 10 catches for 147 yards and one TD. At running back, sophomore Devon Spalding (5-11, 205, Westland John Glenn) had a fine, all-around performance for CMU ending up with 185 total yards (rushing and receiving) and one touchdown. The Chippewas could be one of the best 1-2 squads in the country, losing to Oklahoma State 24-13 and defeating Monmouth 31-10. CMU's two losses have come by a combined 14 points. Of Central's 22 starters, 18 come from the state of Michigan. The Chippewas are led by head coach John Bonamego, a Paw Paw native and CMU graduate. For Syracuse (3-0), redshirt junior DE Ron Thompson (6-3, 255, Southfield) finished with five tackles and three tackles for losses for 21 yards. Thompson, another NFL prospect, is a two-year starter for the Orangemen. Also starting for Syracuse was sophomore LB Parris Bennett (6-0, 215, U-D Jesuit). Bennett led the Orangemen with 10 tackles and one tackle for loss.
Thursday, September 17, 2015
Michigan's top 25 players for class of 2018 -- Nos. 11 through 25
Michigan's top 25 high school football players for the class of 2018. Below are players 11 through 25.
11. Cole Schut-6-3, 255-OT-DT-Holland-Bruiser upfront for the Dutch. Physical presence on both sides of the football. One of west Michigan's top prospects.
12. Josh Mayberry-6-1, 280-C-Detroit King-Starter as a sophomore for one of the Midwest's best teams/programs. Anchor in the middle for Crusaders.
13. Nolan Bird-6-2, 175-QB-Grand Ledge-Coach's son. Smart, heady player for premier Lansing-area program.
14. Giovanni Agazzi-6-3, 265-OG-Livonia Stevenson-Big, strong kid in the trenches for power running squad. Starts as sophomore for one of western Wayne County's (Detroit's county) top teams.
15. Jayden Day-5-10, 180-QB-Muskegon Orchard View-Slippery, cat-quick signal-caller for Cardinals. Tough in the open field. Could possibly switch to RB with his skill set.
16. Cody Carone-6-4, 290-OL-C-DT-Rockford-Possibly the next great O-lineman from Grand Rapids-area powerhouse (Former Rams OL in NFL, Adam Kieft, CMU, Cincinnati Bengals, 2005-2008 and Joe Staley, CMU, San Francisco 49ers, four-time Pro Bowl player, 2007-present).
17. Robert Daniel-5-11, 170-DB-Oak Park-Following in the footsteps of former Knight All-Stater John Kelly (class of 2015, now playing in the SEC at Tennessee) as possibly the next big time D-I recruit in the secondary for Oak Park. 4.5 40. Akron, Miami (OH) offers.
18. El Julian Jordan-6-1, 205-QB-Detroit King-Starter as a sophomore for Crusaders. Poised, skilled QB for state-ranked King. Sparkplug for one of the country's most talented skill position groups (multiple D-I players at WR and RB positions).
19. Jalen Mayfield-6-5, 225-TE-DE-Grand Rapids Catholic Central-Started as freshman for Cougars. Outstanding all-around athlete. Also played varsity basketball as frosh for Catholic Central. Length and athleticism make Mayfield an intriguing prospect.
20. Ryan McCafferty-6-8, 250-OT-Battle Creek Harper Creek-Size alone should attract D-I recruiters. Athletic big man who also plays basketball for Beavers. Should be interesting to follow McCafferty's progress these next two years. Could project out to 6-8/6-9, 295/300 as senior OT for Harper Creek. Should attract plenty of Big Ten interest down the road.
21. Braeden Childress-6-4, 215-TE-QB-Big Rapids-Phenomenal athlete. Could be 6-4, 245 TE prospect or 6-4, 225 QB recruit by senior season. Brother Brandon is a freshman WR at CMU.
22. Trevor Dilley-6-4, 255-DT-TE-St. Joseph-Could be next big-time, high-level D-I recruit for Bears. Current teammate Corey Malone-Hatcher (6-4, 245-Jr.-DE) is being recruited by all the top college programs, but Dilley could be just as much in demand by the time he's a senior. Already seeing action on both sides of the football for St. Joseph, Dilley is a beast-in-the-making.
23. Eric McArn-5-10, 210-RB-Southfield-With U-M RB recruit Matt Falcon (6-1, 215) out with an injury, McArn has stepped in and proved he's also a D-I level recruit this season for the Bluejays. Bruising, powerful runner with speed, McArn is the type of every-down, physical back Big Ten programs crave. And to think he still has two more years to punish opposing defenses...
24. Antwan Reed-6-7, 270-OT-Muskegon-Prototypical D-I offensive tackle prospect. Plays for one of Michigan's traditional powerhouse programs.
25. Jake Moody-5-11, 160-PK-Northville-Normally kickers aren't in a top 25 football prospect list, but I had to include Moody simply because of his powerful leg. With still two more seasons to continue to prove his accuracy, Moody has nothing to prove about his distance strength. In a game earlier this season for the Mustangs, Moody kicked a 50-yard FG. That's pretty good/impressive for a sophomore in my book.
11. Cole Schut-6-3, 255-OT-DT-Holland-Bruiser upfront for the Dutch. Physical presence on both sides of the football. One of west Michigan's top prospects.
12. Josh Mayberry-6-1, 280-C-Detroit King-Starter as a sophomore for one of the Midwest's best teams/programs. Anchor in the middle for Crusaders.
13. Nolan Bird-6-2, 175-QB-Grand Ledge-Coach's son. Smart, heady player for premier Lansing-area program.
14. Giovanni Agazzi-6-3, 265-OG-Livonia Stevenson-Big, strong kid in the trenches for power running squad. Starts as sophomore for one of western Wayne County's (Detroit's county) top teams.
15. Jayden Day-5-10, 180-QB-Muskegon Orchard View-Slippery, cat-quick signal-caller for Cardinals. Tough in the open field. Could possibly switch to RB with his skill set.
16. Cody Carone-6-4, 290-OL-C-DT-Rockford-Possibly the next great O-lineman from Grand Rapids-area powerhouse (Former Rams OL in NFL, Adam Kieft, CMU, Cincinnati Bengals, 2005-2008 and Joe Staley, CMU, San Francisco 49ers, four-time Pro Bowl player, 2007-present).
17. Robert Daniel-5-11, 170-DB-Oak Park-Following in the footsteps of former Knight All-Stater John Kelly (class of 2015, now playing in the SEC at Tennessee) as possibly the next big time D-I recruit in the secondary for Oak Park. 4.5 40. Akron, Miami (OH) offers.
18. El Julian Jordan-6-1, 205-QB-Detroit King-Starter as a sophomore for Crusaders. Poised, skilled QB for state-ranked King. Sparkplug for one of the country's most talented skill position groups (multiple D-I players at WR and RB positions).
19. Jalen Mayfield-6-5, 225-TE-DE-Grand Rapids Catholic Central-Started as freshman for Cougars. Outstanding all-around athlete. Also played varsity basketball as frosh for Catholic Central. Length and athleticism make Mayfield an intriguing prospect.
20. Ryan McCafferty-6-8, 250-OT-Battle Creek Harper Creek-Size alone should attract D-I recruiters. Athletic big man who also plays basketball for Beavers. Should be interesting to follow McCafferty's progress these next two years. Could project out to 6-8/6-9, 295/300 as senior OT for Harper Creek. Should attract plenty of Big Ten interest down the road.
21. Braeden Childress-6-4, 215-TE-QB-Big Rapids-Phenomenal athlete. Could be 6-4, 245 TE prospect or 6-4, 225 QB recruit by senior season. Brother Brandon is a freshman WR at CMU.
22. Trevor Dilley-6-4, 255-DT-TE-St. Joseph-Could be next big-time, high-level D-I recruit for Bears. Current teammate Corey Malone-Hatcher (6-4, 245-Jr.-DE) is being recruited by all the top college programs, but Dilley could be just as much in demand by the time he's a senior. Already seeing action on both sides of the football for St. Joseph, Dilley is a beast-in-the-making.
23. Eric McArn-5-10, 210-RB-Southfield-With U-M RB recruit Matt Falcon (6-1, 215) out with an injury, McArn has stepped in and proved he's also a D-I level recruit this season for the Bluejays. Bruising, powerful runner with speed, McArn is the type of every-down, physical back Big Ten programs crave. And to think he still has two more years to punish opposing defenses...
24. Antwan Reed-6-7, 270-OT-Muskegon-Prototypical D-I offensive tackle prospect. Plays for one of Michigan's traditional powerhouse programs.
25. Jake Moody-5-11, 160-PK-Northville-Normally kickers aren't in a top 25 football prospect list, but I had to include Moody simply because of his powerful leg. With still two more seasons to continue to prove his accuracy, Moody has nothing to prove about his distance strength. In a game earlier this season for the Mustangs, Moody kicked a 50-yard FG. That's pretty good/impressive for a sophomore in my book.
Tuesday, September 15, 2015
Michigan's top 25 high school football players for the class of 2018
It's extremely early, but I figured I would put together my opening list of the top 20 sophomores in the state of Michigan. Like every year in the Great Lakes State, the class of 2018 is already looking like a group filled with big-time, high-level Division I college football talent. So, without further adieu, here is my early, early top 25 players for Michigan's class of 2018 (of course, like most of my class lists, this ranking will be fluid as the season progresses and new talent emerges).
Top 25 players for Michigan's class of 2018-
1. Marquan McCall-6-3, 295-OG-Oak Park-Similar to Detroit Lions guard Larry Warford. Projects out to 6-3, 325 or so. Powerful run blocker. Oak Park head coach Greg Carter is one of Michigan's best and has been developing and preparing multiple future D-I players for decades at Detroit DePorres, Inkster and Oak Park. McCall will definitely be well-schooled and play-ready by the time he reaches the next level. U-M offer.
2. Reggie Pearson-5-10, 170-DB-River Rouge-Best player at River Rouge since 10-year NFL running back Chester Taylor (Toledo, Baltimore Ravens, Minnesota Vikings, Chicago Bears and Arizona Cardinals, 2002-2011). Ball hawk, had five interceptions as a freshman defensive back starter for Panthers. Just a pure football player. Also plays in one of the finest high school football stadiums in the Downriver area (Detroit's southern suburbs). CMU, EMU, WMU offers.
3. Tyrone Sampson-6-4, 290-OL-C-DT-Detroit East English Village-Another powerful drive blocker. One of the talent-rich Detroit Public School League's top, young prospects. Michigan State recruiting. Akron offer.
4. Jimmy Bell-6-8, 310-OT-Saginaw Arthur Hill-Could eventually rise to the top of this list. Raw, but unbelievably talented. Basketball player, has good feet, long arms, agility. Starter as freshman. Most high-level D-I schools recruiting. In two years, once Bell grows into his body, he could be one of the nation's best at his position.
5. Jason Whittaker-6-4, 190-QB-Rockford- Strong-armed signal-caller for Michigan powerhouse program. Has Big Ten size and length, with potential to grow to 6-4/6-5, 210/215 range by senior year.
6. Kalon Gervin-6-0, 175-DB-Detroit Cass Tech-Seeing action as sophomore for national power in loaded secondary already filled with D-I recruits. Runs 4.4 40. If Gervin continues to progress as a player, he could be a high-level nationwide recruit in two years.
7. Caden Prieskorn-6-4, 195-QB-Lake Orion-Like Rockford's Whittaker, Prieskorn is a big, talented quarterback for a perennial state power. Elite athlete. Three-sport standout in football, basketball and golf.
8. Brandon Gray-6-5, 175-WR-Southfield-Still rangy and raw, but overall skill/potential is off the charts. Teams with one of the nation's top freshman recruits, quarterback Sam Johnson (6-3, 185, has six D-I offers already) to form potent pass-catch combo. In two years, Johnson to Gray might be unstoppable. Would be quite a coup for some instate college program to sign both players (I'm talking to you MSU, U-M). Bowling Green State, Akron, Ohio offers.
9. Ryan Hayes-6-6, 240-TE-OT-Traverse City West-Long, lanky, big-bodied athlete from northern Michigan football factory (multiple D-I players in past decade). Has the frame to develop into big-time OT prospect or huge, mobile TE recruit. I see Hayes as a 6-7, 275/285 behemoth as a senior. He has Big Ten written all over him.
10. Ovie Oghoufo-6-2, 195-LB-WR-Farmington Hills Harrison-Physical, tough player from legendary Michigan program. Like most of these players on this list, has room to grow physically and skill-wise, but, also like all of these players on this list, is no doubt a high-level D-I recruit. Runs 4.7 40. Will more than likely add 10-15 pounds or more and drop his 40 clocking to 4.5/4.6 by the time he's a senior.
Up next-Players 11 through 25 for class of 2018.
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