Peppers plans to run track at Michigan

Submitted by BlueCube on

According to The Star Ledger Jabrill Peppers plans on running track at UM after becoming the second boy ever to win both the 100 and 200 meter races.

The amazing part is:

 

The 6-1, 210-pound Peppers — brawny and chiseled with muscle — cuts an imposing figure on the track, looking like a freight train next to mostly smaller opponents. He says he is still only starting to learn proper technique when it comes to sprinting, but he is such an extraordinary athlete it has not mattered.

 

“I’m just running on sheer strength,” he said.

FreddieMercuryHayes

June 5th, 2014 at 11:00 AM ^

I wonder if he's cleared that with the football staff.  I thought I remember that the staff doesn't allow a player to do another sport other than football their freshman year.   Didn't that come up with another high level prospect that wanted to run track as well during the recruiting process.  Maybe I'm remembering incorrectly.  Either way, I would like to see what he can do with high level track coaching.  Also, someone from USA today or something reported (i.e. tweeted) that Peppers recorded a 4.32 40 time (no mention if hand or laser).

Voltron is Handsome

June 5th, 2014 at 11:08 AM ^

I'm all for this. If anything, it helps him stay in even better shape during the off season.

LSAClassOf2000

June 5th, 2014 at 11:18 AM ^

I do think that it would be fun to watch him go to plaid, if you will, at a meet though. From the video posted the other day of him running the 100-meter, I believe it was, Peppers certainly seems like someone who could do just that. It would definitely leave other contenders quoting Barf from that movie - "What the HELL was that?"

Hail-Storm

June 5th, 2014 at 11:15 AM ^

to see a couple plays made up for him on offense.  I love that his main position is going to be on defense, but, a guy with that speed, that can move a fluidly as he can, with that size, who is not afraid of a little contact?

Blue In NC

June 5th, 2014 at 11:37 AM ^

Agreed but I think with Peppers the intriguing thing is that he is not just pure speed on offense, he his good moves and power also.  It's not like just moving a track guy to offense.  Peppers also appears to have the patience, cutting ability and vision to be a top-notch back or playmaker.

ijohnb

June 5th, 2014 at 1:26 PM ^

as he could probably do offensively, Michigan needs the player that can bring a real defensive mentality/reputation back to its program.  Our defensive secondary has been really soft for a really long time.  I am OK with Peppers playing safety or corner all 4(3) years and really locking that position down.  Hopefully we can build from there.

Wolverine Devotee

June 5th, 2014 at 12:02 PM ^

By the time he's a senior, the new indoor track STADIUM will be built. This is perfect to fill the place.

A Fan In Fargo

June 5th, 2014 at 2:40 PM ^

That's the bomb he is going to run track. Great for the program and getting other fast football players in to do the same maybe. However, this guys real speed is on grass. You put some track stars on grass and they are like a fish out of water. Peppers is a freak athlete. He's quick, agile, elusive, jukes, straighline uncatchable. What a great day. What a great offense and defense we are going to have. Ty Isaac and him on offense is lights out. Buckeyes aren't going to know what hit them.

Coldwater

June 5th, 2014 at 4:25 PM ^

This is GREAT news for the track program....he's a game changer. In case you didn't know, Michigan's men's track program is not that strong. They are never in contention for Big Ten titles.



So adding Peppers strengthens the sprints immediately.

LKLIII

June 10th, 2014 at 11:06 AM ^

Smart kid.  Dont' bite off more than you can chew.  Presuming he stays healthy, he's got the physical gifts to do a lot at Michigan--defensive backfield; special teams; offense; track & field.  But learn to crush it in one area first, then slowly add items on to your plate.  He can add track in his junior season when he knows the football playbook cold.