2010 recruiting

As always, you can see all the updates on the 2010 Michigan Recruiting Board.

Officially Visitin'

The Penn State game had been built up (at least in my mind) as a pretty big visit weekend, but it's cooled off a bit, and the November 21st weekend, when the Wolverines play Some Team from South of Here, should be the blockbuster weekend now. Still, there are a couple noticeable visitors for this Saturday.

OH TE Alex Smith, a longtime Cincinnati commit who has been considering Michigan for a while, will make his long-awaited trip to Ann Arbor this weekend. His school, Lakota West, also has a number of other D-1 prospects, including OH LB Alex Smith, but none of them are considering Michigan.

PA DT Sharrif Floyd's on-again, off-again visit to Ann Arbor this weekend appears to be off-again. He won't take any more visits until his high school season is completed. Er... since then, he's said that Ohio State will be his destination this week, and any report of Michigan interest is "just a rumor." That sounds... discouraging. Floyd is also excited to prove himself at the Army AA Bowl.

MN OL Seantrel Henderson is in a similar situation, with his Michigan visit for this weekend shrouded in mystery.

CA S Dietrich Riley enjoyed his Notre Dame visit (as did his buddy, CA CB Josh Shaw), and a Michigan visit doesn't seem to be set in stone, as it was earlier in the process. Also, local Riley fluff. Dietrich Riley picture by Keith Birmingham for the Pasadena Star-News.

GA DT Michael Thornton may take an official visit at a later date.

SC CB John Fulton will apparently visit Michigan November 28th, the week after the season ends. Something tells me that's not accurate, since there's no need to do it that soon after the season, especially with the basketball team out of town. I'd guess that visit is actually for the OSU game a week prior.

Still Seeking Linebackers

Josh Helmholdt shares in the Free Press that a couple new linebackers have entered Michigan's radar. FL LBs Jeremiah George and Greg Hickman have been hearing from the Wolverines, and both are supposedly true MLB types. Also from the article, the Wolverines are taking a look at MI LB Michael Kinville from Detroit Catholic Central, the alma mater of Mike Martin. All three of those gentlemen will be added to the board.

Meanwhile, OH LB Jewone Snow visits Morgantown, no Michigan mention (grumble grumble).

Cullen

Though he maintains an official top 5 of Michigan, West Virginia, UCLA, Ohio State, and Pitt, ESPN certainly gives the vibe that the Wolverines and the Mountaineers are the only two teams remaining for PA CB Cullen Christian. He has plenty of nice things to say about Michigan:

On the flip side, Rodriguez and Christian maintain regular contact, Christian said. "I talk to him all the time. He tells me they really want me. I'm No. 1 on their board. He tells me I'll fit right in. He tells me that all the time -- trying to get it stuck in my head."

Christian has been talking with people close to the Michigan program about exactly what it's like to play for Rodriguez, in Ann Arbor. "He seems like a cool dude to me," Christian said. "He was real laid back."

But from what Christian has been told by those who are already in the program at UM, Rodriguez's laid back vibe from the recruiting trail can change. "What everybody's telling me, he's real intense when you get up there. The intense one up there is [strength and conditioning coach] Mike Barwis. He's intense all the time," said Christian.

He says some nice things about West Virginia as well, but nothing as positive as the Michigan portion. He still plan a visit for the OSU game and a decision immediately thereafter.

As for Christian's teammate, PA S/WR Brandon Ifill, the list has been narrowed to Pitt and Maryland. Michigan isn't going to get Ifill, and the Penn Hills duo will probably go to different schools. I've removed Ifill from the recruiting board, although his final decision won't come for a couple months.

2011

MI LB Lawrence Thomas is considered a heavy MSU lean, but Michigan was his childhood favorite:

"Michigan meant a lot to me when I was growing up," Thomas said. "When I was young I saw them in all the bowls, so they were one of those dream schools."

They may be able to work that angle to good results. Thomas has also gotten bigtime, scoring offers from the like of Florida, Oklahoma, and Penn State. He won't make a decision until his senior season, which is still a year away.

In other "2011 Instate recruits blowin' up" news, MI WR DeAnthony Arnett has garnered offers from Oregon and LSU, with Oklahoma likely on the way. Also from that article, MI WR Kenny Knight is apparently getting Michigan interest. I've been looking for information on the kid for a looooong time, and this is officially the first recruiting news I've seen on him.

While we're on the topic, the 2011 Recruiting Board should debut a little bit later this week. Stay tuned.

EDIT:OR RIGHT NOW. 2011 Michigan Football Recruiting Board.

Etc.

VA LB Aramide Olaniyan is still "in touch" with Clemson. Local recruiting fluff on OH OL Skyler Schofner, who sounds like he's not considering the Wolverines anymore. Might MI WR commit Ricardo Miller visit UCLA with FL WR Kenny Shaw? I'd be surprised.

Last Friday, I got my third opportunity to check out 2010 Michigan commit Ricardo Miller in person, as the Ann Arbor Pioneer Pioneers (we're from Pioneer!) traveled to Chelsea to take on Michigan State commit Nick Hill and the Chelsea Bulldogs. Ricardo Miller caught 4 passes for 123 yards and a touchdown in a 45-9 Pioneer victory.

First, since it's what everyone cares about the most, the video:

Ricardo Miller Scouting Report

This was the first time I'd seen Miller look truly dominant against high school competition, though he's looked semi-dominant before, he just never gets the damn ball. His quarterback doesn't have the confidence in his own arm to hit Miller on the always-wide-open deep posts (or deep crosses - look how open he is nearly every time he runs a route, but the QB is too scared to throw it), otherwise Miller would have finished with 200+ receiving yards in every single game of his I've attended.

In this game, the QB managed to hit him on a couple screens. Those play more to the QB's strengths than Ricardo's, but the coaching staff has struggled to find ways to get the ball into his hands, and a screen is better than nothing. Miller also caught a quick slant at the end of the first half, then outran the Chelsea defense down to the 8-yard line before two deep defenders managed to drag him down as the second quarter expired. In the third quarter, Miller got behind the defense and the QB finally hit Miller for his second 53-yard catch of the game. This one was a touchdown (above, courtesy of AnnArbor.com's Lon Horwedel). Miller was also targeted a couple times on poor throws that suggested why the QB rarely throws it long.

This game, however, was not Ricardo's best blocking performance. He's usually performed very well, sometimes even dominating against defensive linemen as a tight end. This game, he was just OK. He got a Pioneer running back killed when he whiffed a block on the perimeter.

Nick Hill Scouting Report

On the other side of the ball, the pride of the Chelsea Bulldogs was Nick Hill. Unfortunately, I was running low on memory and I didn't shoot any video of him. However, in my estimation (and please note that I am not a professional) Hill didn't impress. He looks like a guy that would go to a MAC program, where he would become a star... against MAC defenses. It's easy to see why the Michigan coaches didn't offer. I think that Mark Dantonio offered him because he wants a bunch of guys on his team who are pissed at Michigan, in hopes that they Hulk Up and perform like beasts against the Wolverines each season.

For someone who is often compared to Mike Hart, the first thing that jumps out about Nick Hill is his fumbling. He fumbled three times in the game, losing two of them. He also dropped two passes, one of which should have been ruled a lateral and a 3rd lost fumble. Hill didn't seem spectacular running the ball, either. Once he got in a groove, he showed some of the jump-cuts in traffic that led to the Hart comparisons, but he's not a tough runner, and goes down on first contact almost every time. His only big play was being the recipient of a pitch on a hook-and-ladder play that he ran in for a touchdown with nobody from Pioneer threatening to come near him. Hill got hurt and missed the entire second half, and I honestly didn't think his backup (random white kid who will never sniff a D-1 offer) was all that significant of a downgrade.

This should be a mondo update, since there wasn't a true recruiting post last week. Brace yourself, and if you need some context, check out the 2010 Michigan Recruiting Board.

Happy Trails:

IA QB AJ Derby to Iowa, OH S Kurtis Drummond to MSU, CT LB Khairi Fortt committed to Penn State, MD LB Troy Gloster committed to West Virginia, FL DE Lynden Trail committed to Florida.

Get 'em Early

ESPN provides one of the fluffiest Devin Gardner articles humanly possible:

Putting a football in Devin Gardner's hands is like handing a master artist a paint brush and an empty canvas.

It's your standard "lots of words with no information"-type article, other than mentioning that Gardner intends to enroll early at Michigan. Devin's gone back-and-forth about whether he wants to come in for the winter semester, but it appears his on-again, off-again relationship with that plan is in the on-again phase. 

Rich Rodriguez has mentioned that he doesn't want to see high schoolers miss out on their opportunity to play winter and spring sports in high school, but since Gardner is participating in the ESPNU/Under Armour All-American Bowl, a (terrible) MHSAA rule prevents him from playing sports afterward. He wouldn't be missing out on much other than the prom.

(Gardner photo by Tom Hauck for ESPN.com.)

In other potential early-enrolling athletes, I brought this up in yesterday's Friday Night Lights post, but TX RB Stephen Hopkins also plans to enroll early. That brings the unofficial list to the following:

• MI QB Devin Gardner
• TX RB Stephen Hopkins
• MI WR Ricardo Miller
• OH WR Jerald Robinson
• OH OL Christian Pace
• FL S Marvin Robinson

That's always subject to change. Back to Hopkins for a moment, though, as MGoReader Phil Sampson fills me in that the big game against Southlake Carroll should be available for listening on the internet at http://www.kkgmam.com/. The game takes place Friday at 7:30 CDT. Phil warns that if you tune in early, you'll be subjected to some bad music.

In the Army Now

MN OL Seantrel Henderson was officially selected to the Army All-American Bowl, which is probably the least shocking moment in human history. No mention of Michigan in the recruiting snippets, for what it's worth. That's a somewhat regular occurrence, though insider-y rumblings still say that he likes Michigan. For what it's worth, his friend MN Ath JD Pride committed to Minnesota, but says he won't pressure Seantrel to join him.

Elsewhere in Official Army Selections, WI P Commit Will Hagerup got the treatment on Thursday. Rivals AMP was there:

For the record, Hagerup mentions that he'll arrive in Ann Arbor over the summer, which is a good sign that he has no intention of enrolling early.

SO MUCH STUFF ABOUT VISITS

AZ S Marquis Flowers plans to visit Michigan "later this month." That will be for the Penn State game, obviously. More on Penn State visits in next week's recruiting update, of course.

CA S Sean Parker visited Cal for the USC game, and the only other visit he's sure about is Michigan. He's planning to wait out a decision, so if Michigan has a good season, there's definitely a chance to land him. Rivals insists that he has not committed to USC ($, info in header). "Hey, that thing that nobody believes? It's not true!"

Michigan continues to lead for PA CB/S Cullen Christian, despite his shiny new offer from Ohio State. He plans to visit Ann Arbor for the November 21st contest against the Buckeyes, and decide a couple days after. That timeline looks good for Michigan. JC Shurburtt has more:

"I am going to decide Nov. 24 during a press conference at my high school," Christian said. "Right now, my top two schools are Michigan and West Virginia. Every school has a shot, though, and things could change when I take my official visits."

"They were just my favorite team growing up as a kid," Christian said. "They gave me my first offer. They recruit me the hardest, and I just love Michigan."

Again, sounds like the Wolverines are entrenched as his leader. As for his teammate, PA S Brandon Ifill, things don't look nearly as rosy from a Michigan perspective. He favors Maryland and Pitt ($, info in header), and Rutgers is recruiting him the hardest. It's fair to say that Michigan would prefer to only get Christian out of this duo.

Most analysts assume that FL LB Christian Jones is a lock to Florida State, since he's a legacy and his brother plays there. Despite Michigan falling off his radar lately, the Wolverines are still in the mix for an official visit ($, info in header). ESPN confirms that Michigan is one of the contenders for an official visit. I'll believe it when I see it, since he's been completely forgotten about by Michigan fans.

FL CB Tony Grimes (who still favors Michigan, Ole Miss, and Wisconsin) will be taking his Michigan visit for the Ohio State game at the end of November. That's shaping up to be a blockbuster recruiting weekend, with CA RB/LB Anthony Barr visiting as well.

Dee Tees

Michigan is "still alive" with GA DT Mike Thornton ($, info in header), and he's considering the Wolverines  for one of his official visits ($, info in header). Sam Webb elaborates in the Detroit News:

Those skills caught the attention of Michigan assistant Jay Hopson last summer. The Wolverines' Peach State recruiter wasted little time making very clear the magnitude of his program's interest.

"He told me they were looking for a great defensive tackle and they found that in me," Thornton recalled. "They needed to see my academic work and they offered a day later, actually." ...

"I talked to coach Hopson last week," Thornton said. "I haven't watched them play yet, but I've been hearing good things about them. I'm still going to get up there (on a visit). I just don't know when yet. "

Talk about defensive tackles and whatnot.

PA DT Shariff Floyd probably won't visit North Carolina with one of his officials, and Michigan is one of the options to fill that slot, along with Ohio State. I would predict that Michigan gets that visit for the Ohio State game if the Wolverines continue their winning ways, and he hasn't decided on a school by that time. He remains a longshot.

MN DT Beau Allen is down to five finalists, all of whom will receive official visits. He's already been to Wisconsin, and he's still setting up trips to Notre Dame, Stanford, Minnesota, and Michigan.

2011

It looks like Michigan is on the outside looking in for FL OT Tyler Moore. He planned to announce a decision "very soon," and made it in favor of Nebraska. Brian, his dad, points out that a verbal commitment might not be a final decision, so he might not drop completely off the radar when he commits to one of those schools.

Sam Webb's "Dandy Dozen" - the top twelve instate recruits in the 2011 class in no particular order - are presented for your perusal, with relevant recruiting comments from the article following each recruit.

DeAnthony Arnett, WR, Saginaw, 6-0, 170, 4.51 - Offers from Michigan, Michigan State, Central Michigan and Tennessee already have come through for the talented youngster. Aside from taking a few visits to some of aforementioned schools, Arnett has made recruiting a back-burner issue.

Arnett is widely considered to be a Michigan lean, though he doesn't have any public favorites. When I talked to him in August, he said he was going to take his time with the recruiting process.

Justice Hayes, RB, Grand Blanc, 5-11, 185, 4.5 - Allen Trieu: "He grew up a Michigan State fan, but Northwestern is recruiting him hard and his teammate Tony Jones is committed there. Then you have Michigan, who fits his style of play and he has had good visits to. He is wide open right now."

Talky. Hayes recently spoke to Rivals' MichiganPreps, where he gave a similar picture of his recruitment, adding that he has one offer, from Iowa. It also included video:

...and back to the Webb article:

Delonte Hollowell, CB, Detroit Cass Tech, 5-9, 165, 4.5 - "Central Michigan and Michigan offered me," added Hollowell. "Iowa, Illinois, Michigan State -- a lot of schools have been sending mail. I'm going to try to go to an Iowa game and maybe an Illinois and Michigan State game. Michigan State has sent mail and I talked to the defensive backs coach, Coach (Harlan) Barnett."

Don't be too frightened by that last comment. Michigan is the leader for Hollowell, though "because I don't have any other offers except for Central Michigan" doesn't imply that the Wolverines have an iron grip.

Lawrence Thomas, LB, Detroit Renaissance, 6-4, 237, 4.65 - Trieu: "Michigan State is the team to beat, but I get the feeling a lot of schools from all over are about to turn up the heat on him."

Michigan recently extended an offer to Thomas ($, info in header), but are definitely playing from behind.

Willie Beavers, OT, Southfield Lathrup, 6-5, 327, 5.1

Bryan Bell, OT, Walled Lake Central, 6-5, 290, 5.0

Ashton Gaines, WR, Detroit Crockett, 5-11, 170, 4.6

Jamal Hosley, WR, Highland Park, 5-9, 160, 4.4

Taiwan Jones, LB/WR, Anchor Bay, 6-4, 200, 4.7

Willie Snead, WR, Muskegon Heights, 6-0, 180, 4.5

Dwight Trammer, LB, Inkster, 6-1, 225, 4.7

Anthony Zettel, OG, West Branch Ogemaw Heights, 6-3, 255, 4.9

I believe Bell grew up a Michigan fan, though the early word is that he hasn't heard a whole lot from the Wolverines. Willie Snead plays quarterback in high school, but projects as a WR/DB. Trammer is a teammate of Devin Gardner, and likes Michigan (Michigan might like him, too: I overheard Wolverines QB coach Rod Smith asking what number he was at a recent Inkster game). Anthony Zettel is considered a mortal lock to the maize and blue if they see him worthy of an offer.

Now that I've given you most of the interesting information from the article, I feel obligated to encourage you to check it out. Seriously, it's really good stuff.

FL RB Demetrius Hart is going to be a top prospect in the Sunshine State next year, probably ringing in around 4 stars. He's also considered a Michigan lock, though I have no idea why:

"Of course, they are my top team," Hart said. "I don't think I will commit now, but I will commit later to Michigan."

Nope, I haven't the slightest clue. Hart took in a Michigan game last year, and has set a visit for this season as well. I'd bet one of my kidneys that it's for either the Penn State or the Ohio State game, both of which are shaping up to be blockbuster recruiting events. Win plz. Hart is also a candidate for Orlando Sentinel Offensive Player of the Year, probably because he does stuff like this.

Yeah, it's totally time for a 2011 recruiting board. Look for it next week.

Etc.

As mentioned in last week's recruiting update, Michigan offered CA WR Kenny Stills. "Offered" DE RB Jamaal Jackson will decide after his senior season. CA CB Joshua Shaw will no longer visit Michigan. The Wolverines are pushing for a visit from SC CB John Fulton.

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: Inkster defeats Muskegon Catholic Central 34-19.

Gardner led the Vikings with 99 yards rushing and 110 yards on 4-of-9 passing.

He also had a single rushing touchdown.

This week: Inkster (4-2) @ Cleveland St. Ignatius.

SC QB Conelius Jones

Last week: Spartanburg is killed by Byrnes, 49-6. The Vikings were without their starting running back. Jones was 9-24 passing for 106 yards and a touchdown. He also ran 13 times for 94 yards.

This week: Spartanburg (2-5) @ Mauldin.

MI RB Austin White

Last week: Stevenson rocks South Lyon East 47-20.

Senior Austin White rushed for 234 yards and five touchdowns Friday...

The KLAA Central Division champion Spartans... led 19-0 after one quarter as the 6-foot-1, 180-pound White scored on runs of 15, 11 and 71 yards.

Stevenson went ahead 33-0 with two early second-quarter scores – a 1-yard run by Mike Beyer and White’s fourth TD of the night, a 31-yard run.

White, committed to Michigan, added a 3-yard scoring run in the third period.

This week: Stevenson (5-2) has a crossover game against an opponent to be determined.

TX RB Tony Drake

Last week: Skyline beats Richardson 36-7. Drake ran the ball 13 times for 102 yards, and added a 15-yard pass reception. He didn't find the endzone in the game.

This week: Skyline (6-0) @ Richardson Berkner.

TX RB Stephen Hopkins

Last week: Fluff, including that Hopkins intends to enroll early at Michigan. Marcus rocks Lewisville 56-7. Hopkins had 10 rushed for 110 yards and 4 touchdowns.

This week: Marcus (4-1) @ Southlake Carroll.

LA Slot WR Drew Dileo

Last week: Parkview Baptist beats Northeast 41-27.

Parkview’s second score came when Drew Dileo ran it in from five yards away. Dileo had 44 yards on seven carries. He also scored on an 18-yard pass from Wilson.

This week: Parkview Baptist (5-1) has a bye.

MI WR Ricardo Miller

Last week: Pioneer scrapes by Huron 23-19.

Sorise began moving the Pioneers down the field. And after connecting with Miller once once previously in the night, Sorise found a wide-open Miller for a 39-yard reception down to the Huron 5-yard line.

"That was the changing moment in the game," Sorise said. "(Miller) told me if he beat the (defensive back), just to throw it up, throw it deep."

Miller, playing in his first Pioneer-Huron clash, did the rest.

"I told Miles I would go out and get it," Miller said. "I went out and made a play."

Miller's catch left Pioneer only 5 yards from the go-ahead touchdown.

Miller photo by Melanie Maxwell of AnnArbor.com.

This week: Pioneer (6-1) @ Chelsea.

OH WR Jerald Robinson

Last week: Canton South loses to West Branch, 12-28.

Jerald Robinson had 107 yards receiving for the Wildcats on five catches.

This week: Canton South (1-6) v. Marlington.

MI WR Jeremy Jackson

Last week: Huron falls to Pioneer 19-23.

The River Rats (3-4, 1-3 SEC) erased a 10-point halftime deficit, using a Jeremy Jackson 5-yard touchdown pass and a successful 2-point conversion in the third quarter to cut into the deficit

Jackson photo by Melanie Maxwell of AnnArbor.com.

This week: Huron (2-4) @ Ypsilanti.

OH WR DJ Williamson

Last week: Harding falls to St. Ignatius 7-10.

This week: Harding (4-2-1) @ Massillon.

OH OL Christian Pace

Last week: Avon Lake beats Berea 42-7.

This week: Avon Lake (4-3) @ Westlake.

OH DT Terry Talbott

Last week: QB Braxton Miller returned for the Warriors. They emerged with a 21-14 victory over Fairmont.

This week: Wayne (4-3) @ Beaver Creek.

PA DE Ken Wilkins

Last week: Trinity is beaten by Belle Vernon 6-21.

This week: Trinity (1-5) @ West Mifflin.

PA DE Jordan Paskorz

Last week: Hampton loses to Knoch 7-10.

This week: Hampton (3-3) v. Mars.

OH LB Antonio Kinard

Last week: Liberty falls to Lakeview 14-21.

This week: Liberty (4-3) @ Hubbard.

FL S Marvin Robinson

Last week: Lake Region falls to Ridge Community 6-14.

This week: Lake Region (0-5) @ Frostproof.

OH CB Courtney Avery

Last week: Lexington beats Wooster 34-32.

This week: Lexington (4-2) @ West Holmes.

OH CB Terrence Talbott

Last week: QB Braxton Miller returned for the Warriors. They emerged with a 21-14 victory over Fairmont.

This week: Wayne (4-3) @ Beaver Creek.

WI P Will Hagerup

Last week: Whitefish Bay loses to Homestead 0-7.

This week: Whitefish Bay (5-2) @ Cedarburg.

2011 OH CB Greg Brown

Last week: Ross falls to Marion Harding 0-21.

Running several times with wide receiver Greg Brown taking the snap in a Wildcat formation, the Little Giants went from their own 10 to the Harding 38.

Brown, who by a coaching decision was held out of the first half, bolted 13 yards to put the ball on the Presidents 38.

This week: Ross (4-3) v. Napoleon.

Every so often it's nice to take a step back and look at the recruiting picture from more distance than "recruit X visits school Y. Here's a look at needs, commits, and remaining prospects at each position. Rodriguez has said he expects to sign a full class of 25. There are currently 19 commits and 22 spots available.

Conventional recruiting updates will return next week.

Quarterback

Needs: 2

Current Commits: 2

MI QB Devin Gardner and SC QB Conelius Jones are waiting in the wings to become Michigan's next signal-caller. Gardner has talked about preparing to enroll early, but still isn't certain if he plans to do so. Jones could potentially move to another position if the Wolverines find another QB that they like in the class of 2010 or to make the depth chart more appealing for prospect in future classes. LA QB Munchie LeGeaux is still considering Michigan if there's need for another QB, but Michigan is basically done here.

Tentative Grade: A. Gardner is the top QB recruit in the country to Rivals and Jones is a good developmental prospect.

Running Back

Needs: 1-2

Current Commits: 2

TX RB Stephen Hopkins is the team's big back in the class of 2010. MI RB Austin White is more of a versatile all-purpose back. There has been some talk that Hopkins may find his future on the defensive side of the ball, as a linebacker. He plays the position in high school, and the Wolverines definitely have more need there than they do at running back. FL RB Eduardo Clements is still considering Michigan, although it seems he's decided on a non-Michigan school.

Tentative Grade: B. White and Hopkins were early offers and thus guys the staff wanted from the start; they're both hovering around the 3/4-star borderline. You'd like to see Michigan reel in a blue-chip at some point but they look pretty set for the next few years.

Slot Receiver

Needs: 1

Current Commits: 2

LA Slot Drew Dileo will undoubtedly draw comparisons to Wes Welker over the course of his career as Designated White Slot Guy. TX RB Tony Drake is a combo RB/Slot. Michigan is already pretty full at this spot, since Martavious Odoms and Kelvin Grady are just sophomores, while Terrence Robinson and Jeremy Gallon are freshmen. With the increase in tight end usage, there is only room for one slot on the field most of the time. This might be a spot where the depth chart turns off and jumped ship.

Tentative Grade: C. Nether Drake nor Dileo had much in the way of offers when they committed and their recruiting rankings are towards the bottom of the class.

Wide Receiver

Needs: 2

Current Commits: 4

Michigan is stocked—possibly excessively so—at wideout, especially considering the emergence of young players already on the roster, like sophomores Darryl Stonum and JR Hemingway. A couple of the current commits are likely to change positions, such as MI WR Jeremy Jackson moving to tight end, MI WR Ricardo Miller moving to tight end, or OH WR Jerald Robinson moving to defensive back. Only OH WR DJ Williamson, a straight-line burner, seems locked in at WR.

Miller and Jackson both plan to enroll early, and Robinson may do the same. Further evidence that moves are potentially on the way: Michigan is still offering outside wideouts, as they just sent an offer to CA WR Kenny Stills ($, info in header).

Tentative Grade: B+. Miller's sudden and mostly unexplained ratings drop is bothersome, but he had a lot of impressive early offers so it probably doesn't mean a whole lot. He should be good. Robinson was great at summer camp and the other two guys have the potential to contribute.

Tight End

Needs: 0-1

Current Commits: 0

I noted above that Ricardo Miller or Jeremy Jackson may be destined for this position, but Michigan is also looking for a true tight end. The play of Kevin Koger and Martell Webb has shown Michigan's coaches the value of having a playmaker at the position. The only tight end that seems to be a realistic possibility is OH TE Alex Smith, and even that is a longshot.

Tentative Grade: Inc.

Offensive Tackle

Needs: 1-2

Current Commits: 0

Mark Ortmann will leave Michigan following this season, leaving very few proven tackles on the roster. Though Patrick Omameh, Taylor Lewan, and Michael Schofield have tons of potential, there is a need for more players at the position, particularly talented ones. MN OL Seantrel Henderson is the only top prospect that the Wolverines are strongly involved with, though OH OL Skyler Schofner is lesser-regarded, and still a possibility. Even if Michigan can't land one of those guys (and odds are that they won't), there is the opportunity for some sleeper prospects to be picked up later in the recruiting process.

Tentative Grade: Inc. Not looking good at this point with few options other than Henderson, who is a tossup.

Interior Offensive Line

Needs: 2

Current Commits: 1

OH OL Christian Pace is destined to be a center in the future, as he's a little short to be a true guard. Michigan would also like another guard in the class, though pickings are getting slim for top guys. FL OL Torrian Wilson was favoring Michigan for a long time... until he committed to Stanford. He's still a little bit open, though it looks like his Cardinal commitment may stick. Michigan will likely be looking for sleepers at this position as well.

Tentative Grade: Inc. Again, few options on the board now that Wilson has committed to Stanford.

Defensive Tackle

Needs: 2

Current Commits: 1

OH DT Terry Talbott is underrated by the recruiting services, and should be a very useful player for Michigan within a couple years. The Wolverines still need another player at the position, though, and unlike offensive line, there are a number of options. PA DT Shariff Floyd is one of the top players in the nation, and he's gone back and forth over whether Michigan will get a visit. MN DT Beau Allen recently received an offer from Michigan, and has interest. MI DT Johnathon Hankins is favoring other schools right now, but a Michigan offer could vault them right back into the race.

Tentative Grade: C. Talbott's a good pickup but Michigan is nowhere near picking up any blue-chip guys and needs some more depth.

Defensive End

Needs: 3

Current Commits: 2

Michigan has bodies at the defensive end positions, but they're lacking true playmakers waiting to take over for Brandon Graham once he leaves. PA DEs Jordan Paskorz and Kenny Wilkins are more likely to be solid contributors than game-changers, so Michigan would like at least one more DE in the class. There have been rumblings that Paskorz could bulk up and move to defensive tackle, and that Wilkins will probably end up at Quick DE. Michigan doesn't have a lot of options here, as prospects are dropping to Penn State, and now FL DE Lynden Trail has committed to Florida. Michigan will either look for a sleeper with a lot of potential, or hopefully jump back into the recruitment of a top guy if they continue having a good season.

Tentative Grade: C+. Wilkins is a great athlete who can grow into the strongside DE spot; Paskorz isn't rated that high. Michigan's gotten beaten out by PSU for approximately 8 DE prospects.

Linebacker

Needs: 3

Current Commits: 1

OH LB Antonio Kinard is Michigan's sole commit at this position, and he's not really a top guy. He's got potential, but the Wolverines need a lot more than that, considering the weakened state of the linebacker corps. Fortunately, there are lots of options, though CT LB Khairi Fortt is now off the table, as he committed to Penn State. VA LB Aramide Olaniyan has visited Michigan already this fall, where he enjoyed himself. He plans another trip to Ann Arbor this winter. MD LB Josh Furman is also a strong possibility here, and he plans to decide fairly soon. MD LB Troy Gloster was a possibility, but he recently committed to West Virginia. A good backup plan here is OH LB Jewone Snow, a Michigan legacy.

Tentative Grade: Inc. Will be good if they pick up Olaniyan and Furman.

Safety

Needs: 2

Current Commits: 1

FL S Marvin Robinson was considered a top junior, and although he isn't as highly-ranked as a senior, he's still a good grab for the Wolverines. He intends to enroll early, but Michigan still needs at least 1 more player at this position. OH S Latwan Anderson seems to be looking elsewhere now (and deciding soon), but CA S Dietrich Riley is still looking at Michigan, as is CA S Sean Parker. Both are top prospects, and plan to visit Ann Arbor this fall. There are a couple prospect a little lower on the board, including AZ S Marquis Flowers.

Tentative Grade: Inc. If they keep Robinson and add another decent prospect it'll be a B.

Cornerback

Needs: 3

Current Commits: 2

OH CBs Terrence Talbott and Courtney Avery are good gets, but Michigan needs one elite corner in this class (Don't believe me? Watch the team play this year). Fortunately, PA CB Cullen Christian has been heavily favoring Michigan since the beginning of time, and plans to announce a decision a couple days after he visits for the Ohio State game. There are also a couple more options back here, which would allow Christian to play safety if he goes blue. They are FL CBs Travis Williams, Rashad Knight, and Tony Grimes, as well as top CA CB Joshua Shaw. Grimes is also thought to be favoring Michigan; Knight has been quiet for a while but the last time someone pinged him he also said Michigan was his leader pending a potential Florida State offer which looks like it won't come.

Tentative Grade: A-, assuming they latch on to Christian and one other guy on the list, possibly two with the intent of moving someone to safety.

Punter

Needs: 1

Current Commits: 1

WI P Will Hagerup is the man at punter after Zoltan leaves Ann Arbor on his spaceship. Hagerup is among the top punters in the nation, and was Michigan's #1 choice from the start.

Tentative Grade: A. Woo nation's top punter.

If you can help out finding articles on any of the commits, e-mail me, and I'll try to include your contribution. This week, I didn't make it to any games, but I might be able to make it to one game for next week. If you want up-to-the-minute updates of the games I attend, follow me on Twitter @varsityblue.

MI QB Devin Gardner

Last week: Opponent-focused pregame fluff. Inkster defeats Bay City Central 27-20.

The University of Michigan-bound signal caller was impressive, throwing for 132 yards on 7-of-13 passing and running for 95 yards on 15 carries.

But - except for one dazzling fourth-quarter dash that electrified the stadium - the Wolves defense kept Gardner from putting on a one-man highlight show.

This week: Inkster (3-2) @ Muskegon Catholic Central.

SC QB Conelius Jones

Last week: Spartanburg loses to Gaffney, 7-14. Jones was 18-30 passing for 184 yards and one interception. He ran 21 times for 60 yards and the Vikings' only touchdown.

This week: Spartanburg (2-4) @ Byrnes.

MI RB Austin White

Last week: Stevenson defeats Novi 14-7. White did fumble the ball once. Article 2.

The Spartans had 222 yards rushing led by White’s 133 on 28 carries.

White also had 3 catches for 34 yards in the game.

Article 3:

“As long as we keep winning I don’t care how many times I carry the ball,” White said. “The team is working hard. To be around these guys is a great feeling. We’ve come such a long way since the beginning of the season. It’s exciting right now. We didn’t change a lot in the second half. People just started making plays. We’ve been focusing on making plays. I think we’re going to be the kind of team to pound it down their throats. That’s the kind of team we’re developing into.”

This week: Stevenson (4-2) @ South Lyon East.

TX RB Tony Drake

Last week: Skyline rocks Molina 65-0. Drake had only 1 carry, but it went for 54 yards and a touchdown.

This week: Skyline (4-0) @ Richardson.

LA Slot WR Drew Dileo

Last week: Parkview Baptist loses to Dutchtown, 15-24.

Godberry’s touchdown was set up by a 32-yard punt return by Drew Dileo...

The Eagles, ranked No .3 in 3A, were led by Brandon Johnson who had 53 yards on 11 carries and Drew Dileo who had 24 yards and a touchdown on 13 carries. Dileo added 32 yards receiving on three catches.

The Dileo Statistical Notebook is almost getting robust enough for a...

Chart?

Chart. Look for one next week.

This week: Parkview Baptist (4-1) v. Northeast.

MI WR Ricardo Miller

Last week: Pioneer blasts Monroe 41-6. Ricardo had 3 touchdown catches.

This week: Pioneer (5-1) v. Huron. Apparently this game is some sort of big deal.

OH WR Jerald Robinson

Last week: Canton South loses to Northwest 8-28.

Jerald Robinson had six catches for 60 yards and a touchdown.

This week: Canton South (1-5) v. West Branch.

MI WR Jeremy Jackson

Last week: Huron defeats Saline 32-20.

Gleichert directed the credit to his blockers, saying "our offensive line just played the best games of their lives. I'm going to give all credit to the O-line. They played an amazing game."

Senior wide receiver Jeremy Jackson, who caught eight passes for 132 yards and a touchdown, agreed.

"When the line blocks, everything goes well for us. They're firing off the ball real hard and on each and every play they're coming off with a purpose," he said.

"That makes the run and pass really easy."

Jackson photo by Lon Hordowell of AnnArbor.com.

This week: Huron (2-3) @ Pioneer. Apparently this game is some sort of big deal.

OH WR DJ Williamson

Last week: Harding defeats Bishop Tonnos 48-7.

This week: Harding (4-1-1) v. St. Ignatius.

OH OL Christian Pace

Last week: Avon Lake defeats Midpark 35-7.

This week: Avon Lake (3-3) v. Berea.

OH DT Terry Talbott

Last week: Star QB Braxton Miller was out with the flu. Wayne falls to Northmont 14-27.

This week: Wayne (3-3) @ Fairmont.

PA DE Ken Wilkins

Last week: Trinity falls to Chartiers Valley 12-30.

This week: Trinity (1-4) v. Belle Vernon

PA DE Jordan Paskorz

Last week: Hampton defeats Indiana 35-20.

This week: Hampton (3-2) @ Knoch.

OH LB Antonio Kinard

Last week: Liberty defeats Champion 21-7.

This week: Liberty (4-2) v. Lakeview.

OH CB Courtney Avery

Last week: Lexington wins 47-7. Avery missed the game with his ongoing ankle injury.

This week: Lexington (3-2) @ Salado.

OH CB Terrence Talbott

Last week: Star QB Braxton Miller was out with the flu. Wayne falls to Northmont 14-27.

This week: Wayne (3-3) @ Fairmont.

WI P Will Hagerup

Last week: Whitefish Bay defeats Grafton 32-0.

This week: Whitefish Bay (5-1) @ Homestead.

2011 OH CB Greg Brown

Last week: Pregame fluff. Ross loses to Findlay, 40-43 in 3 overtimes.

But the Little Giants big blow came when Foos threw a 66-yard TD strike to Greg Brown (8 catches, 121 yards) during a 74-second, second-period scoring frenzy as 3:37 remained in the first half.

This week: Ross (4-2) @ Marion Harding.

TX RB Stephen Hopkins

Last week: Marcus had a bye week.

This week: Marcus (3-1) v. Lewisville.

FL S Marvin Robinson

Last week: Lake Region had a bye week.

This week: Lake Region (0-4) v. Ridge Community.