TomVH: An Interview with Dan Voltz

Offensive line is one of the harder positions to recruit because it takes longer to evaluate players who will change vastly in college. In addition, there are different styles of offense that require different types of linemen.

However, every year there are a few standouts in recruiting that everyone wants no matter the offense. This year Illinois offensive tackle Dan Voltz (6'5", 290 lbs) is one of those recruits. With around twenty offers already from some of the biggest programs, Voltz will be one of the more sought-after linemen in this class. I caught up with Dan to ask him about his recruitment, and how Michigan factors in. Here are his highlights, then the interview.

TOM: First, for anyone that has never seen you play, can you describe what kind of football player you are? Maybe what you bring to the table.

DAN: I bring 100% effort all the time. I am an extremely hard worker, and I will do anything to become a better football player. I think I play physical and I play offensive line the way it's supposed to be played. I also think I'm pretty athletic for a big guy.

TOM: With your recruitment, Michigan has offered you already, is that a school that you want to learn more about?

DAN: Yes, I'm really interested in Michigan. They offer a great combination of top notch academics, and a legendary football program. I will definitely be looking at them hard.

TOM: Someone like you who's being recruited by a ton of schools, how do you plan on letting everything play out? Do you have a timeline?

DAN: I am actually making a top five or top six list in the upcoming weeks. I'll let you know which schools are on there when I make it.

TOM: When you go to make that top list, how does a school get in the top group? What are you looking for?

DAN: The schools will have, like Michigan does, a good combination of football and academics. It has to be a school that I feel comfortable being at because I will be spending the next four to five years of my life there. Lastly, there has to be a stable coaching staff, that will play a part in it.

TOM: Once you develop the top list, what comes after that? How will you decide from there?

DAN: I will try to visit those schools as many times as I can before the start of my senior year, and hopefully choose one school to call home. If not, I will push my decision timetable back and possibly take a few official visits.

TOM: So the plan for right now is to commit before the season, but it could go into the season?

DAN: Yes, that's right.

TOM: A lot of times with southern kids they like to stay in the south. Since you're from the Midwest, are you more comfortable staying in the Midwest, or even playing in a Big Ten type offense?

DAN: I would love to stay close to home and play Big Ten football. If there is a school that I visit and like outside of the midwest or Big Ten, then I won't hesitate to seriously consider them.

TOM: Last question, to go back to Michigan specifically, what are you looking to find with Michigan? What are you looking to learn about them?

DAN: Right now I just want to see the campus for myself and talk to the coaches more; gain that comfort level with them.