Ricardo Miller: Coaches Visit and Reaction

I just spoke with Ricardo Miller about the recent coaches visit, and a little about his reaction to Shavodrick Beaver decommitting. Here’s what he had to say.

TOM: Coach Smith and Frey came to see you, Kenny Shaw, and Demetrius Hart the other day, how did that go?

RICARDO: It went real well, I was excited to have them there. They were down here to see Jeremy Gallon, and then decided to come over and see us. That just proves to me what Coach Rodriguez said earlier. He told me earlier that he’s just as committed to me as I am him, and this showed me that. We started talking just about our year, and how we’re trying to improve. Then Kenny and Demetrius got there, and they were telling them how they think they’ll fit in, and how they can help Michigan.

TOM: Kenny Shaw is in your class, and a receiver, and Demetrius Hart is a sophomore, so what were they telling them? How do they fit in?

RICARDO: They were telling Kenny he could be a real good slot receiver up there, and get a chance to show the fans what he’s got. Demetrius, they were telling him that he’s perfect for their offense. He’s quick and could come in at running back.

TOM: How do you think they liked the coaches, and the experience?

RICARDO: I could tell they were real excited. Kenny and Demetrius are the same as me. They’re looking to find a home, and a place that they can feel like family. They’re going to keep their word, wherever they go, and do everything to help their team. I tell them all the time that Coach Rodriguez is here to help us all the time. From the talks that we have, I know he’s there for me on and off the field, which I love. I’ve just been focusing on that, and letting them know they can trust him, and he has our best interests in mind.

TOM: So, I broke the news to you last night that Beaver decommitted, what is your reaction?

RICARDO: I’m not even going to look into it. I’m disappointed, and I lost some respect for him, because I feel like you need to be true to your word. We became good friends, and we talked like we were brothers, so I don’t really get it. I was told that he said he didn’t feel like he fit in, and he was overwhelmed by the crowd at the game. You told me some things he said about Tulsa being focused on family, and that was a huge part of why I chose Michigan. That’s my family, and they’ve always focused on that. But, like I said, I’m not even worried about that. I’m moving forward, and Coach Rodriguez told me they are too. They’re excited to get Tate up there, and are going to find someone else to come in too. Coach Smith told me they’re disappointed in how it all happened, but they know he’s missing out. I’ve actually already started working on Devin Gardner, and trying to get him to come up there. I’m going to talk to him today about this, and see what he says. After talking with him at the Michigan State game, I really don’t think he’s the kind of guy to just choose a school to say he’s going there.

TOM: What do you mean?

RICARDO: Well I chose Michigan because I love Michigan. I’ve been a fan for who knows how long. After talking with the coaches, and being up there, I knew that was the place for me. I think sometimes kids make their decision just for themselves, to say I’m going to Michigan, or whatever school, not the right reasons. I’m recruiting some other kids, and I want Michigan men there. Guys that want to be at Michigan, because that’s what’s going to help the team. Look at Braylon Edwards, he’s like the spokes person for Michigan, because he’s a Michigan man. I mean, in the real world, you can’t tell someone you’re going to do one thing, then not do it. I don’t want to do anything that will show against my character, and I think that does.

TOM: You mentioned that Michigan is your family, what made you really feel that?

RICARDO: Well, when I went to Michigan for the Michigan State game, I knew that was the place. The coaches made me feel wanted, and so did the fans. The fans were all screaming my name, and telling me they want me, and I’m a junior. I mean, I went to Florida, and no one even knew who I was, or said anything to me, it was weird. Not that I want attention, but it was just like I was another kid coming in.

TOM: What are you focusing on right now?

RICARDO: I’m training for the Army All American combine, just trying to get ready to compete. Just trying to get to next season, keep my 3.5 GPA up, and just try to get to Michigan as fast as I can.