2010 recruiting

Remember, all-time updates can be found on the 2010 and 2011 Michigan football recruiting boards.

Out of Town Guests

Wow, this would be an awesome recruiting weekend if it weren't for a game in which Michigan is likely going to get taken to the woodshed (plz don't, guys). Looking at past recruiting updates, we have the following list:

Official Visits:

• FL CB Tony Grimes
• FL DE Clarence Murphy
• CA LB Tony Jefferson (pictured at right, courtesy of the Detroit News).
• PA CB Cullen Christian
• FL RB Cassius McDowell
• FL S Rashad Knight (leaving for Ann Arbor at 6:45 AM Saturday)
• FL S Commit Marvin Robinson

Unofficial Visitors:

• 2009 FL CB Adrian Witty
• MI CB Dior Mathis

Jefferson came in for the Sam Webb treatment in the Detroit News last week:

"They said they are in need of a player like me," Jefferson said in April after he received his Michigan offer. "They said I could play early at whatever position they think I could play -- outside linebacker, safety, or even offense. They liked my (physicality). That's what Michigan recruits."

He's a 4-star to both sites. MGo-Recruiting Guru Tom Van Haaren adds that Jefferson will not be the only California prospect in attendance. CA WR Kenny Stills will be in town along with CA Ath (and USC Commit) Dillon Baxter. Tom talked to Baxter yesterday. CA RB Brennan Clay, an Oklahoma commit and high school teammate of Tate Forcier, might also make it in. Or not.

SoFlaFootball says FL DT Richard Ash will visit for the Ohio State game as well. Ash comes from the familiar Pahokee pipeline, so Michigan might have a good chance to land him.

Add to that TX DT Jatashun "Big Tex" Beachum.

FL WR Kenny Shaw will be in the house as well. Remember, he's a former teammate of Ricardo Miller and current teammate of 2011 FL RB (and heavy Michigan lean) Demetrius Hart. Speaking of whom...

Expect a bunch of juniors as well, including Hart. Demetrius may be in the "good visit = commitment" category. 2011 OH S Ron Tanner will also be in attendance ($, info in header).

As previously discussed, GA teammates DT Michael Thornton and LB Tyrone Cornelius will take a fall visit. I wouldn't be surprised if it's for this game, though that's certainly not confirmed.

VINOPAL

Added OH S Ray Vinopal, who has received a Michigan offer. Vinopal had been on the radar much, much earlier in the process, but it didn't seem like he'd ever receive an offer. With that offer in hand, expect a winter visit from him. Here's his highlight video, courtesy of ScoutingOhio:

I honestly don't intend to reinforce racial stereotypes, but just from the highlight film, he looks like a guy who is always in position because he plays smart, not because he has elite speed. Vinopal also looks to be a big hitter. Cardinal Mooney is a traditionally strong program, and it couldn't hurt Michigan to have an in there.

For those concerned about his low recruiting profile, it appears that Vinopal's strong senior year is drawing interest from Notre Dame, Pitt, and a number of other local BCS programs. If a couple of those inquiries are followed up with offers, it'll be clear he's a Lewan sort of late bloomer, not a reach.

Cullen Near the End

PA CB Cullen Christian, as noted above, is visiting Ann Arbor this weekend. He had also planned to visit Ohio  State last weekend, but that apparently didn't happen. The Buckeyes were one of the prime challengers for his commitment, so not visiting the Buckeyes can only hurt them. He still plans to decide on November 24th, so as long as his Michigan visit doesn't go poorly, he could be the next addition to the 2010 recruiting class.

Christian has made several unofficial visits to Ann Arbor, most recently in June. He is comfortable with what the program has to offer, but wants to spend a few days around the players, coaches and students before rendering his decision.

"I want to get everyone's opinion about Michigan before I make a choice,” Christian said.

Definitely sounds like his mind is all but made up. Michigan has been eliminated from contention for his teammate, S/WR Brandon Ifill, so don't expect a package deal.

Happy Trails

VA LB Aramide Olaniyan, who had previously named Michigan near the top of his list, has committed to UCLA. He visited the Bruins a week ago, whereafter he named them his favorite. I'd accept a trade of Olaniyan for Jefferson (a UCLA commit), if it's possible. Olaniyan's off the board.

CA CB Joshua Shaw, who I removed in the last update, picked Florida yesterday.

Permanently removed TX DT Jay Guy, who has switched his soft Cal commitment to a hard Nebraska one.

Etc.:

Spurned commit Holmes Onwukaife may be back in the picture for the Wolverines. Michigan and VT are the leaders for MD LB Josh Furman ($, info in header). MI QB Commit Devin Gardner isn't wavering, which is good because he does things like this. 2011 DL Donte Phillips was "wowed" by his Michigan visit a couple weeks ago ($, info in header). OH TE Alex Smith has parted ways with Cincinnati. He'll make a final decision within a couple weeks.

If you can help out finding articles on any of the commits, e-mail me, and I'll try to include your contribution.

MI QB Devin Gardner

Last week: Preview fluff. Inkster defeats Southgate Anderson 35-7 in Round 3 of the State Playoffs. We were there, so enjoy some video and a scouting report, which I posted yesterday. Detroit News recap.

This week: Inkster (8-3) v. Warren De La Salle @ Ferndale High School at 1 PM Saturday in the State Semifinals.

SC QB Conelius Jones

Last week: Spartanburg upsets previously-undefeated Rock Hill 41-28 in Round 1 of the State Playoffs.

"We took a great season and made it miserable,'' Rock Hill coach Joe Montgomery told The Herald. "We didn't stop No. 5 (QB Cornelius Jones) all night long. I told our kids we got beat in all phases of the game tonight, and you can't win when you give up 41 points.''

Jones did most of his work on the ground, rushing for 110 yards on 18 carries and two touchdowns in the pivotal victory. Jones was especially key on third downs, converting three third-and-longs with big runs.

Article 2.

The lone pass attempt resulted in defensive interference and set up the Vikings with first-and-goal from the five.

“We knew nobody was going to pick us to win,” Jones said. “But we stuck together as a team and everybody executed and did what they were supposed to do.”

Way to figure out a winning gameplan during the regular season, corch.

This week: Spartanburg (4-8) @ Sumter in Round 2 of the State Playoffs. The Vikings fell to Sumter in week 4.

TX RB Tony Drake

Last week: Skyline beats Rowlett 38-0 in Round 1 of the State Playoffs. Drake ran for 114 yards and a touchdown on 14 carries, and caught 3 passes for 32 yards and another score.

This week: Skyline (11-0) @ DeSoto in Round 2 of the State Playoffs. DeSoto is a talented team, with 2 Texas commits and an LSU commit in their senior class (of course, Skyline has 8 seniors committed to D-1 programs).

TX RB Stephen Hopkins

Last week: Marcus beats Grapevine 48-18 in Round 1 of the State Playoffs.

Injecting a heavy dose of senior rusher Stephen Hopkins and junior rusher Rufus Mason, the Marauders wore down a game Grapevine squad in the game’s final 24 minutes to advance past the bi-district round of the postseason, 48-18.

Riding the legs of Hopkins, the Marcus speedster bolted through a gaping hole and scurried 16 yards for the touchdown just 30 seconds into the second quarter.

Speedster, you say? Hopkins ran 26 times for 167 yards and 3 touchdowns, while adding a 26-yard pass reception.

Hopkins photo by Brandon Wade of the Star-Telegram.

This week: Marcus (7-3) @ Cedar Hill in Round 2 of the State Playoffs.

LA Slot WR Drew Dileo

Last week: Parkview Baptist beats Marksville 40-8 in Round 1 of the State Playoffs.

Senior tailback Drew Dileo added receiving and rushing touchdowns.

Dileo, a Michigan commitment, made three catches for 74 yards.

Dileo rushed for 68 yards on five carries.

This week: Parkview Baptist (9-1) v. Crowley in Round 2 of the State Playoffs.

OH OL Christian Pace

Last week: Preview fluff #1:

“Ronnie has turned into a great receiver, thanks to his being a great athlete with great size, speed and hands. We have great leaders on the line like Christian Pace and Dan Schneider who everyone looks up to and does a good job keeping everybody in check.”

Preview fluff #2:

"Our lines on offense and defense are starting to play really well together and our passing game is starting to click, and that’s starting to move defenders out of the box," said two-way lineman Christian Pace.

"We all want the same goal, and that’s a state championship, and senior year is there. It could be your last game," Pace said.

Avon Lake falls to Toledo St. Francis DeSales 10-13.

This week: Avon Lake (8-4) has been eliminated from the playoffs, and their season is over.

PA DE Jordan Paskorz

Last week: Hampton pounds Uniontown 35-14 in Round 2 of the State playoffs.

This week: Hampton (7-4) v. Hopewell in Round 3 of the State Playoffs.

FL S Marvin Robinson

Last week: Lake Region falls to East Ridge 2-47. Robinson is out for the year with an injury.

This week: Lake Region (0-9) missed the playoffs, and their season is over.

LA S Carvin Johnson

Last week: He was all-district, which comes with stats:

senior safety Carvin Johnson, a Michigan commitment who finished with 56 tackles and 4 interceptions. Johnson was selected as a punt and kick return specialist. He averaged 17.5 yards on punt returns with one score.

Rummel beats Captain Shreve 10-3 in Round 1 of the State Playoffs. Johnson kicked some serious ass:

The state's top-seeded team in Class 5A scored 10 first-quarter points, with a key punt return by Raiders safety Carvin Johnson setting up the game's lone touchdown...

In addition to his punt return, Johnson also had two interceptions, with the second ending Captain Shreve's final threat with one minute, 16 seconds remaining.

"We just played hard and we got through it, " Johnson said. "We're know we're going to struggle at times. Our offense has struggled all year. We've just got to keeping getting it done."

Johnson's first interception ended the game's first possession and put Rummel in place for its most productive moments offensively.

Is that not enough? He also had 2 sacks.

This week: Rummel (11-0) @ Jesuit in Round 2 of the State Playoffs. Rummel beat Jesuit earlier this season.

Seasons Complete

MI RB Austin White

Stevenson's (8-3) season is over after falling in the second round of the playoffs.

MI WR Ricardo Miller

Pioneer's (8-3) ended after a loss in the second round of the playoffs.

MI WR Jeremy Jackson

Huron's (5-4) season ended without a playoff berth. Jackson finished with 43 catches for 573 yards.

OH WR Jerald Robinson

Canton South (3-7) missed the state playoffs, and its season is over.

OH WR DJ Williamson

Harding (6-3-1) will not make the State Playoffs, and its season has ended.

OH DT Terry Talbott

Wayne's (7-4) season ended with a defeat in the second round of the playoffs.

PA DE Ken Wilkins

Trinity (4-6) has been eliminated from the State Playoffs, and their season is over.

OH LB Antonio Kinard

Liberty (4-6) missed the State Playoffs, and its season is over.

OH CB Courtney Avery

Lexington (6-4) missed the State Playoffs, and their season is over.

OH CB Terrence Talbott

Wayne (7-4) has been eliminated from the playoffs, and their season is over.

WI P Will Hagerup

Whitefish Bay (5-5) has completed its season after a first-round playoff loss.

2011 OH CB Greg Brown

Ross (5-5) missed the State Playoffs, and its season is over.

All-time updates can be found on the 2010 Michigan Recruiting Board and the 2011 Michigan Recruiting Board.

Just Win, Babby?

Michigan fans have seen what impact a tough season can have on a recruiting class, as the terrible 2008 squad led to attrition from last year's class, and made this year's crop more difficult to pull in. With the Wolverines facing similar struggles in 2009, some recruits may be out of reach, but a few key guys see the team improving:

"It doesn't change anything," said Millersville (Md.) Old Mill linebacker Josh Furman, who officially visited Ann Arbor in September. "They are a young team and they need people at certain positions to play and be successful like they have been (in the past)."

While the losing streak has probably put the likes of MN OL Seantrel Henderson out of reach, Furman is an important recruit, as Michigan's linebackers have... struggled this year. The article also mentions that CA LB Tony Jefferson will visit for the Ohio State game (rescheduled from last weekend), despite MIchigan's trying season. More on visits a little later.

One Game to Sway Them All

As mentioned above, the Ohio State game looks to be an important one for recruiting. Aside from providing an opportunity to show that this ship is headed in the right direction (plz plz win), it's the biggest visit weekend of the year. The list will probably change over the course of the next week, but it's shaping up to be a blockbuster, per Josh Helmholdt in the Freep:

Official Visits:

• FL CB Tony Grimes
• FL DE Clarence Murphy
• CA LB Tony Jefferson (as mentioned above)
• PA CB Cullen Christian
• FL RB Cassius McDowell
• FL S Rashad Knight
• FL S Commit Marvin Robinson

Unofficial Visitors:

• 2009 FL CB Adrian Witty
• MI CB Dior Mathis

Aside from that article, GA LB Tyrone Cornelius has talked about visiting Michigan (as mentioned last week), but no word on whether it will be for the OSU game or post-season. CA WR Kenny Stills is in a similar situation. There are also a number of indications that some 2011 prospects will be in attendance, including FL RB Demetrius Hart, a possible commit if he really likes what he sees.

Quarterbacks

Sup Ladies?

SC QB Commit Conelius Jones's Shrine Bowl profile is now available, and he's listed as a wide receiver, who will be a defensive back at Michigan. Obviously, we won't have full confirmation of his future position until Signing Day.

In other quarterbacking news, MI QB Devin Gardner comes in for a solid round of fluff from Sam Webb in the Detroit News. He's still looking at possibly enrolling early.

"He had a great junior year and has simply built upon that," said Scout.com Midwest regional manager Allen Trieu. "He is considered one of the top handful of quarterbacks in the country and is firmly entrenched as a five-star prospect. As far as upside goes, I don't see many quarterbacks that have his potential."

Rivals recently named Gardner the best scrambler among 2010 QBs, and the second-strongest arm, behind Penn State Commit Robert Bolden. At this time, I am obligated to grumble that I think Bolden is overrated.

man, I wish mgoblog had some awesome Gardner video that I could link here.

Happy Trails?

LA QB Munchie LeGeaux committed to Colorado. Once Michigan took Conelius Jones, the writing was probably on the wall that LeGeaux was no longer an option.

Though CA CB Josh Shaw was talking as recently as last week about taking an official visit to Michigan for the Ohio State game, that's no longer a possibility. He will decide early next week between 5 schools that aren't Michigan: Florida, USC, Ohio State, Notre Dame, and LSU. I'ma be straight with you: one of those things is reallllly not like the others.

PA DT Shariff Floyd has been alternately not very interested in Michigan and not at all interested in Michigan, so the latest sign of no interest (he will fill his final official visit slot with North Carolina) isn't quite cause to remove him from the board. Michigan is totally not landing that kid, though.

VA LB Aramide Olaniyan was positively raving about Michigan following his unofficial visit in September, but now UCLA may have moved to the forefront. That does give him a reputation for falling in love with the most recent school he's visited, so don't read too much into it. Still, there's no mention of an official visit to Michigan in December, as there was immediately after his first trip.

Olaniyan said he plans to take two more visits in December and then make his decision.

"I have Duke set for (Dec. 4) and North Carolina (Dec. 11)," Olaniyan said. "I'll make my commitment right after those visits. If I get invited to an All-American game, I'll announce then in January but otherwise, I'll do it in mid-December after my last visit."

Yeah, so that probably means Michigan has really fallen off.

OH S/WR Bobby Swigert has selected Boston College.

Etc.

Michigan's chance at TX DT Jatashun Beachum is "big" ($, info in header). Michigan offered MN DE Tobi Okuyemi... but he immediately committed to Nebraska. GA DT Mike Thornton has the Wolverines "in his thoughts" ($, info in header).

If you can help out finding articles on any of the commits, e-mail me, and I'll try to include your contribution.

New Commit LA S Carvin Johnson

Last week: Rummel knocks off Shaw 18-17.

Breaud was terrific, taking many huge hits, particularly from a human missile named Carvin Johnson and by linebacker Chris Randle. Johnson, who earlier this week committed to Michigan, returned a punt 69-yards for a score on a brilliant effort but the play was called back for a block in the back by Rummel.

This week: Rummel (10-0) v. Captain Shreve in Round 1 of the State Playoffs.

MI QB Devin Gardner

Last week: Inkster defeats Redford Thurston 50-28 in Round 2 of the State Playoffs. Article 2.

Gardner was 6-of-11 passing for 120 yards and two touchdowns, and he ran 11 times for 120 yards and three more touchdowns.

"He played one of the better games of the year for me," Inkster coach Greg Carter said. "He took the game over. Every time Redford Thurston (8-3) would score, he would lead the team down to answer."

Paul was there (albeit a little late), so enjoy some video from the second quarter on:

CityBallers was also there, and they provide video as well.

This week: Inkster (7-3) @ Southgate Anderson in Round 3 of the State Playoffs.

SC QB Conelius Jones

Last week: Spartanburg loses to Dorman 0-28. Jones passed 5/14 for 40 yards and a pick.

This week: Spartanburg (3-8) @ Rock Hill in Round 1 of the State Playoffs.

MI RB Austin White

Last week: Stevenson falls to Detroit Catholic Central 0-38.

Senior Austin White, who has committed to play at the University of Michigan next season, finished the game with 75 yards on 10 carries for the Spartans, but was unable to use his speed to break a big run against the very solid Shamrocks defense.

...except for a 30-yarder, which I would call "big." I was there, so enjoy some video:

As you can see, Stevenson employed some direct-snap shotgun stuff for White, including throwing a pass. I hadn't seen them use that before this year, and I wonder if this was its debut. If so, I question the logic of installing something completely new for a big playoff game. I also question the logic of only giving your running back the ball 10 times when he averages 7.5 yards each carry, but whateva.

This week:

TX RB Tony Drake

Last week: Skyline pounds Sunset 56-0. Drake had just two carries, but they spanned 102 yards, and both made it into the end zone:

Tony Drake ran up the middle 79 yards untouched with 4:50 remaining to give Skyline a 7-0 lead. Drake scored on a 23-yard run on Skyline’s next play to make it 14-0 with 2:37 remaining.

Then he got taken out of the game and Skyline won the end.

This week: Skyline (10-0) v. Garland rowlett in Round 1 of the State Playoffs.

TX RB Stephen Hopkins

Last week: Game preview:

Give me Marcus RB Stephen Hopkins to not want his spectacular career to come to an end just quite yet and a Marcus win. Prediction: Marcus 27, Hebron 23.

In reality, Marcus pounds out a 35-28 win over Hebron. Hopkins ran 28 times for 171 yards and touchdowns of 37 ad 22 yards. Article 2:

Marcus running back Stephen Hopkins, who entered the game needing 44 yards to set the school’s all-time rushing record, gained 171 yards with two touchdowns

“We’ve had a great offensive line since I have been here,” Hopkins said. “And coach Erwin always believed in me. Thanks to all of them I was able to get that done.”

“It was all guts,” Hopkins said. “We picked the right time to show it and I’m proud of the team for how we fought and won. We have to keep fighting and keep getting better every week,” Hopkins said. “We have to step it up on offense and on defense and we have a chance.”

This week: Marcus (6-3) v. Grapevine in Round 1 of the State Playoffs.

LA Slot WR Drew Dileo

Last week: Game preview:

“I love playing at The Rock,” said Dileo, a Michigan football commitment who has scored 11 touchdowns this season. “The atmosphere is great. It’ll be a packed house and we’re playing for the district championship. It’s a great honor to be in this rivalry.”

More pregame fluff. Parkview beats rival Redemptorist 44-27.

It looked like the Wolves had Parkview stopped, but on fourth-and-3 at the PBS 47 the Eagles executed a fake punt, with Dileo running 24 yards for a first down.

Three plays later, Dileo scored on an option pitch around left end. Scott’s second PAT made it 17-7 with 9:39 left in the half.

Dileo later had a 41-yard punt return.

A 23-yard Wilson to Dileo pass helped key the drive that ended with a 2-yard TD run by Brandon Johnson.

This week: Parkview Baptist (8-1) v. Marksville in Round 1 of the State Playoffs.

MI WR Ricardo Miller

Last week: Pioneer gets rocked by Canton 24-60. Miller had a TD catch:

But when Pioneer's Miles Sorise found Ricardo Miller on a 36-yard touchdown pass less than a minute into the second quarter to trim the deficit to a touchdown, it appeared Pioneer was ready to match Canton score for score.

and apparently 6 total catches for 82 yards. Update: 85 yards.

This week: Pioneer (8-3) has been eliminated from the State Playoffs, and their season is over.

OH OL Christian Pace

Last week: Preview fluff:

“Pace has been on the line for all three years I’ve been at tailback,” Mansnerus said. “I have a lot of trust in him, but all of them are good friends. We have a close bond together as teammates.”

Avon Lake outguns Maumee, 56-35 in Round 1 of the State Playoffs.

This week: Avon Lake (8-3)

OH DT Terry Talbott

Last week: Game preview. Wayne falls to Elder 14-35 in Round 1 of the State Playoffs.

This week: Wayne (7-4) has been eliminated from the playoffs, and their season is over.

PA DE Ken Wilkins

Last week: Pregame fluff. Wilkins missed his second consecutive game with mono.

"It's frustrating, but even moreso because I'm a senior," Wilkins said. "When you're a senior, any game can be your last game. You definitely want to get back and play."

When asked how he thought he has played this year, Wilkins said, "On defense, I wasn’t having as good of a year as I did last year. But I think some of that was due to a lot more people knowing who I was this year, and teams scheming more around me. I'm more involved in the offense this year, though. I was having an OK defensive year."

Trinity falls to Mars 0-17.

This week: Trinity (4-6) has been eliminated from the State Playoffs, and their season is over.

PA DE Jordan Paskorz

Last week: Hampton upsets Chartiers Valley 19-7 in Round 1 of the State playoffs.

This week: Hampton (6-4) @ Uniontown in Round 2 of the State Playoffs.

FL S Marvin Robinson

Last week: Lake Region falls to Bartow 7-45. Robinson is out for the year with an injury.

This week: Lake Region (0-8) v. East Ridge.

OH CB Terrence Talbott

Last week: Game preview. Wayne falls to Elder 14-35 in Round 1 of the State Playoffs.

This week: Wayne (7-4) has been eliminated from the playoffs, and their season is over.

Seasons Complete

MI WR Jeremy Jackson

Huron's (5-4) season ended without a playoff berth. Jackson finished with 43 catches for 573 yards.

OH WR Jerald Robinson

Canton South (3-7) missed the state playoffs, and its season is over.

OH WR DJ Williamson

Harding (6-3-1) will not make the State Playoffs, and its season has ended.

OH LB Antonio Kinard

Liberty (4-6) missed the State Playoffs, and its season is over.

OH CB Courtney Avery

Lexington (6-4) missed the State Playoffs, and their season is over.

WI P Will Hagerup

Whitefish Bay (5-5) has completed its season.

2011 OH CB Greg Brown

Ross (5-5) missed the State Playoffs, and its season is over.

All updates can be found on the 2010 Michigan Recruiting Board and the 2011 Michigan Recruiting Board.

Welcome to the Fold, Carvin Johnson

Sure to be the subject of many "Calvin Johnson with a Korean accent" jokes over the next 4+ years, LA S Carvin Johnson became the 20th member of Michigan's 2010 recruiting class last night. The full googlestalk of the under-the-radar prospect can be seen in the Hello: Carvin Johnson post, but there's still a little more info out there to be had, namely an article from nola.com. Relevant bits quoted below:

Johnson said also spoke Tuesday night to both Wolverines running backs coach Fred Jackson, who had recruited him since Michigan extended its official offer during August two-a-day practices. Johnson said reached his decision in consultation with his mother Kim.

That's a slight inconsistency with other stories, which said he was offered in May. Continuing along:

"First of all," Roth said, "everybody who knows Carvin or who has been around him knows that he’s as good of a person as he is a football player. That’s a compliment to him and his momma. Football-wise, he’s a ballhawk. He’s always around the football making plays."

Johnson, 6-foot-1, 195 pounds, with 4.7 speed in the 40, projects as a safety at Michigan. He is fully qualified academically with both the necessary core curriculum grade-point-average and test score, Roth said.

So, not only a (hopefully) good football player, but also a good student. Welcome, Carvin, may you be the first of many DB commits in November.

[editor takeover]

BONUS: A Lousiana high school coach emailed MGoBlog to suggest that just because Johnson is virtually unknown to the recruiting sites doesn't mean that he's not a player:

With regards to your posts on Carvin Johnson, I can tell you that you are wrong on your assessment.

As a veteran Louisiana high school football coach at several highly successful programs, I have had players go on and play all over the country and on to the pros. I have also had kids play for RRod at Tulane, Clemson and WVU. RRod knows the type of football we play here in LA and picks and chooses which schools he recruits. … RRod knows this state and which schools produce college-ready players.

Carvin Johnson is not even one of my players – but I have played against his Rummel team and know Jay Roth and his program well. Carvin Johnson can play. Here in LA, we do not send kids to camps to get hyped up. We know our kids can play. If a LA kid is going to combines, it is very much more than likely due to (a) his high school coach trying to get exposure for himself or (b) because his program isn’t any good, but he plays well. Trust me, this is how it is.

You are getting a solid player – big, physical, coached up, football smart.

Just my nickel’s worth of commentary because that kid can play. I saw him 1^st hand from my own sideline earlier this season when his team eked out a victory against us. Carvin can play and Jay is a good coach.

Coach Ox

So there you go: evidence that Johnson is a sleeper in a good way.

[/editor takeover]

Reverse Manifest Destiny

Last week, mgoblog's own TomVH reported that CA S Tony Jefferson would visit MIchigan for the Purdue game. WTKA's Ira Weintraub e-mailed to let us know that the date has changed, and now Jefferson will be in town for the contest against the Buckeyes. Greg Biggins of ESPN confirms that he will now visit the weeekend of the 21st.

Also in town from the left coast will be CA WR Kenny Stills. He also says:

"I talk all the time with [CA RB] Brennan Clay, Tony Jefferson, [CA CB] Joshua Shaw, [CA DE] Ronald Powell, a few others," Stills said. "There's a good chance a lot of us could be at the same school next year and that would be great.

Stills, Shaw, and Jefferson, plz. I believe Josh Shaw will complete that trifecta by also visiting for the OSU game. He has said he wants to take a Michigan visit, and that would be the perfect time to get him on campus.

In which I emulate Sherlock Holmes to an unnecessary degree

Remember back when GA DT Michael Thornton said he might take an official visit to Michigan at some point? TomVH confirms, via Twitter, that this will indeed happen. Considering that he's the only Georgia DT that Michigan is still heavily recruiting, we can assume this Scout header is about him, no?:

Georgia LB to Visit Michigan

GBW's Eugene Hankerson talked to the player - who plans to visit with his DT-Teammate.

Using a little detective work, we discover that there are three prospects in the Rivals database who are linebackers from Stephenson High School: Jabari Johnson, Franchot West, and Tyrone Cornelius.

Johnson doesn't have a picture available on his Scout profile, so he's out (otherwise the header photo for the article would be his profile picture). That leaves West and Cornelius. Let us compare the photographic evidence:

Cornelius, Mystery Man, and West

The mgo-photo analysis provides indisputable evidence: It's Mr. Cornelius, with the official visit, in the Big House.

I got way too much enjoyment out of this. Cornelius had been thinking about a Michigan visit for a while, FWIW.

Additional Linebackin'

FL LB Christian Jones is apparently still considering Michigan ($, info in header). I've re-added him to the board, since it seems like a lot of recruits are trying to stay as far as possible away from Florida State. Still, even getting him on campus would be a minor recruiting coup.

Part of the reason VA LB Aramide Olaniyan's is on the open market is that Duke was supposed to suck this year, and they did nothing to change those predictions in week one, falling at home to 1-AA Richmond. However, the Blue Devils have since rebounded, and now control their destiny in the ACC Coastal. Olaniyan is back to considering the Blue Devils, although Michigan still remains near the top of his list.

Happy Trails

It was apparent that he wasn't headed to Michigan for a while, but now we know where FL RB Eduardo Clements will play his college ball: Miami (YTM).

FL CB Ricardo Allen committed to Purdue.

2011 OH DE Steve Miller has committed to Ohio State, which is sad, but not unexpected. I at least thought he'd give Michigan an unofficial visit or two.

2011

Speaking of 2011, it's been a while since we've had an update on junior prospects. Athlete Vault has released an initial top 100 and relevant prospects at this time are:

#2 FL DT Timmy Jernigan (Michigan offer, but probably a Florida lock)

#3 AZ OT Christian Westerman (Michigan offer)

#10 GA TE Jay Rome (Michigan offer)

#12 MI LB Lawrence Thomas (Michigan offer, favors MSU)

#15 OH QB Braxton Miller (Michigan offer, favors OSU)

#27 FL S Hasean Clinton-Dix (Michigan interest, Dr. Phillips)

#35 FL WR/TE Kelvin Benjamin (Michigan interest)

#50 NC QB Christian LeMay (Michigan offer and camper, probably a lock to Florida)

#52 OH LB Trey DePriest (Michigan offer)

#54 DE Jalen Grimble (Michigan offer, added to the board)

#84 TX S Sheroid Evans (Stonum, Herron, Woolfolk HS)

#91 OH DE Chris Rock (Michigan interest)

#100 FL RB Demetrius Hart (Michigan lock)

Several other guys on the list will probably be of interest by the time 2011 recruiting truly ramps up.

For his part, Sheroid Evans would like to run track and major in engineering in college. Somebody get this kid on the phone with Troy Woolfolk and Patrick Omameh, stat.

Lawrence Thomas, on the other hand, is the subject of a ridiculously-misleading ESPN headline: "Mich. LB favors another Big Ten school" is a phrase which here means "Penn State is a school he is considering." The article itself even explicitly says he has no favorites.

Added OH TE Robert Mincey to the board, as he took a Michigan visit for the Penn State game ($, info in header). Same with PA OL Kevin Reihner.

SoFlaFootball also has its top 50 for 2011.

Etc.:

People close to MN OL Seantrel Henderson's recruitment are "beginning to think" he'll probably end up at Southern Cal. Uh, no, they've pretty much thought that all along. Notre Dame homers, on the other hand, think it's a 2-horse race between them and Ohio State. MI RB Jeremy Langford visited Michigan recently ($, info in header), I'd be surprised if an offer comes through. Michigan is pursuing post-grad VA DE David Mackall, currently a Maryland commit ($, info in header). I've added him to the board. SC CB John Fulton is selected to the Shrine Bowl. PA CB Cullen Christian no longer a lock? Say it ain't so! Is FL WR Kenny Shaw still interested in Michigan? A possible official visit would seem to imply so.

If you can help out finding articles on any of the commits, e-mail me, and I'll try to include your contribution.

MI QB Devin Gardner

Last week: Pregame fluff from the Detroit News. Inkster pounds Dearborn Edsel Ford 51-19 in Round 1 of the State Playoffs. Gardner completed 4 of 7 passes for 51 yards and 2 touchdowns, while also running 6 times for 98 yards and another pair of scores. mgoblog was there, and thus provides you with rockin' HD highlights:

As you can see, his first 4 pass attempts were completed. Add to that the fact that 2 of the incompletions were Hail Marys and one was a perfect fade to a receiver whose toe was on the line, and you have a pretty good passing day.

This week: Inkster (6-3) @ Redford Thurston Friday at 7:00 in Round 2 of the State Playoffs.

SC QB Conelius Jones

Last week: Spartanburg falls to Boiling Springs 35-39.

the Vikings marched down inside the Boiling Springs 30-yard line in the final minutes, but a fourth-down run by quarterback Conelius Jones, another Shrine Bowl pick, was stopped short

For Spartanburg, Jones ran for 77 yards and a touchdown and threw for a score to Alton Miller.

And what is this "Shrine Bowl" you speak of? It's the North v. South Carolina High School All-Star game. Jones was selected to play as a wide receiver. Interesting quote from the article:

Spartanburg quarterback Conelius Jones, committed to Michigan as a defensive back,

To the best of my knowledge, he's coming in to Michigan as a quarterback, with a potential move to DB down the road.

This week: Spartanburg (3-7) @ Dorman.

MI RB Austin White

Last week: Stevenson defeats Northville 21-7 in Round 1 of the State Playoffs.

Stevenson put two touchdowns on the board, including a 1-yard run by Austin White...

Stevenson then ran out the clock as White, who finished with a team-high 117 yards on 19 carries, racked up three first downs...

“He (White) is the type of back that can also be patient,’’ Ladach said. “He can nickel-and-dime you, too. Stevenson has a good offense. We did a pretty good job, but obviously we didn’t do enough.’’

This week: Stevenson (8-2) @ Detroit Catholic Central Saturday at 7:30 in Round 2 of the State Playoffs.

TX RB Tony Drake

Last week: Skyline downs W.T. White 62-3. Drake had just 4 carries, but they went for 50 yards, including a 13-yard touchdown.

This week: Skyline (9-0) @ Sunset on Thursday.

TX RB Stephen Hopkins

Last week: Game preview pregame fluff . Marcus defeats rival Flower Mound 63-39.

Hopkins broke loose for a 49-yard touchdown scamper on the ensuing play. It was the first of many long runs for Marcus.

Hopkins ran 21 times for 217 yards and two touchdowns, the second of which covered 44 yards. Hopkins photo by Louis DeLuca of the Dallas Morning News.

This week: Marcus (5-3) @ Hebron.

LA Slot WR Drew Dileo

Last week: Game preview. Parkview Baptist beats Baker 35-0.

Senior Drew Dileo scored on a 19-yard run with 9:16 remaining in the third quarter. Dileo passed to Johnson for two points and the final scoring of the game.

Dileo added 36 yards rushing on five tries.

This was a "pull the starters" type of game in bad weather, which partially explains the pedestrian stats.

This week: Parkview Baptist (7-1) @ Redemptorist on Thursday.

MI WR Ricardo Miller

Last week: Pregame fluff. Pioneer bests Temperance Bedford 28-7 in Round 1 of the State Playoffs. MLive article.

Then midway through the final quarter Sorise capped a five-play drive with a 22-yard pass that bounced off a Bedford defender into the hands of Pioneer's Ricardo Miller for a TD...

Miller, who has verbally committed to play at Michigan, caught five passes for 70 yards after making just two catches for 16 yards in the first contest.

"We had to play a lot more Cover 3 because they went to a tight-end set with Ricardo Miller in the middle," Wood explained. "You can't let Miller run free down the seam, so we had to bring the safety over the top."

Big game for Miller, especially considering the inaccuracy by the Pioneer QB. Also, hooray for filling in stats for a game that had previously been blank on his season-long chart. Miller photo by Lon Horwedel of AnnArbor.com.

This week: Pioneer (8-2) @ Canton Friday at 7:00 in Round 2 of the State Playoffs.

OH WR Jerald Robinson

Last week: Canton South continues its 1-game win streak with an upset over Carrollton 28-21. Robinson caught a 30-yard touchdown pass in the game.

This week: Canton South (3-7) missed the state playoffs, and its season is over.

OH WR DJ Williamson

Last week: Harding defeats Akron North 63-24.

This week: Harding (6-3-1) will not make the State Playoffs, and its season has ended.

OH OL Christian Pace

Last week: Avon Lake defeats Amherst-Steele 34-6. You can watch the entire game at that link, if you so desire.

This week: Avon Lake (7-3) @ Maumee Friday at 7:30 in Round 1 of the State Playoffs.

OH DT Terry Talbott

Last week: Wayne defeats Springfield 40-13. No mention of either Talbott in the article.

This week: Wayne (7-3) v. Elder in Round 1 of the State Playoffs.

PA DE Ken Wilkins

Last week: Trinity defeats Ringgold 24-10. Shockingly, that made them eligible for the playoffs, even at 4-5.

The Hillers were shorthanded entering the game, having to play without Michigan recruit Kenny Wilkens [sic], who was out with mononucleosis.

This week: Trinity (4-5) v. Mars in Round 1 of the State Playoffs.

PA DE Jordan Paskorz

Last week: Hampton "roughs up winless Highlands" 59-0.

This week: Hampton (5-4) v. Chartiers Valley in Round 1 of the State Playoffs.

OH LB Antonio Kinard

Last week: Liberty loses to Girard 12-19.

This week: Liberty (4-6) missed the State Playoffs, and its season is over.

FL S Marvin Robinson

Last week: Lake Region loses to Jenkins 7-34.

The Thunder are playing without starting quarterback Tavaris Carr and Division I prospect safety Marvin Robinson because of injury.

Word on the street is that Robinson might be able to play injured, but with his team doing so poorly, he doesn't want to jeopardize spring practice at Michigan by re-aggravating it.

This week: Lake Region (0-7) @ Bartow.

OH CB Courtney Avery

Last week: Game preview. Lexington falls to Ashland 28-31.

The loss tempered a career night by Avery, who has battled injuries all season. The Michigan-bound senior completed 32 of 42 passes for 313 yards and two TDs and rushed for a score.

“Courtney is a player,” said [opposing coach] Valentine. “There’s a reason everyone was behind him and he goes to Michigan. I look forward to seeing him play on Saturdays.”

This week: Lexington (6-4) missed the State Playoffs, and their season is over.

OH CB Terrence Talbott

Last week: Wayne defeats Springfield 40-13. No mention of either Talbott in the article.

This week: Wayne (7-3) v. Elder in Round 1 of the State Playoffs.

WI P Will Hagerup

Last week: Whitefish Bay falls to Eisenhower 10-17 in Round 1 of the State Playoffs.

This week: Whitefish Bay (5-5) has completed its season.

2011 OH CB Greg Brown

Last week: Ross loses to Sandusky 0-30.

Greg Brown intercepted a Zak Esposito pass as Sandusky was going in to score, but set up in awful field position assisted Sandusky in forcing Ross to a three-and-out.

This week: Ross (5-5) missed the State Playoffs, and its season is over.

Seasons Complete

MI WR Jeremy Jackson

Huron's (5-4) season ended without a playoff berth.