Bowman's Football Planet: LET'S TALK FOOTBALL

Bowman's Football Planet: LET'S TALK FOOTBALL: My God, I think I've seen it all now. There is a thread on an ohio recruiting site talking about the negatives of Michigan's fast pac...

LET'S TALK FOOTBALL

   My God,  I think I've seen it all now.  There is a thread on an ohio recruiting site talking about the negatives of Michigan's fast paced recruiting commitments.  What?  This is a bad thing?  How else do you reel in a top notch RB for the class of 2013? Receiving commitments from 5 blue chip OL is a terrible way to start , I'm sure of it.  Not to mention a stud TE, two DE's and a 6'5" WR who worked ohio's top CB and one of the (rivals 5 *) standouts of their 2013 class, Cam Burrows. All that without mentioning the star of the Michigan class, All-American QB, Shane Morris.  Michigan still has roughly 9-10 scholarships open for the class of 2013 and you can bet your sweet ass that it won't be a bunch of bottom feeders receiving offers at the last minute.

  With the depth of Michigans OL becoming nothing less than absolutely loaded over the next couple years, we should look at the RB's they have offered and which of them will have the privilege to run behind the potentially unstoppable force.  If your a top RB coming out of high school next year, what are you looking for?  A massive line? Well of course.  Who has landed the best OL from 2012 -  2013?  Say it out loud, Michigan has.  Michigan may not end up the top recruiting class when it's all said and done, but they don't care.  They get kids before sites even rank them, they do not need help evaluating talent, they know what they want and go get it.  Games are won in the trenches and no other college team understands that currently more than the Michigan Wolverines coaching staff.

Here are the nominees at RB

Ty Isaac - 6'2" 220 lbs, Joliet Academy, Illinois

http://youtu.be/D9_QuTL1HxI

A couple things here that standout.  First of all, he is running through some nice size holes.  Second, they know it's coming but still can't stop him.  Great size, speed and vision.  They run somewhat of a gimmick offense but Isaac shouldn't have a problem running out of I form.  Watch how smooth he is in the backfield before initial handoff  is made, it's just a split second but he is not anxious and in great control.  This is where his vision comes in, the transition from handoff to find a crease and go are set up perfectly for him not to deal with garbage in his path.  After he is through the first level is where he becomes more deadly, if the LB is out of position it then becomes "who can catch Isaac"?


Justin Davis - 6'1" 195 lbs,  Lincoln HS, Stockton CA.

http://youtu.be/kuPkap1oxbg

Davis doesn't impress me as much as Isaac but his agility is undeniable.  He stops on a dime and gets through the line and into the seondary very quick.  He's fast enough to get the corner and smart enough to see openings at full speed when he can't get there.  He doesn't look to be that big but Michigan's line won't need much help from a power back opening holes.  I like the way he runs out of a single set, I-form and spread formations also. 


Derrick Green - 5'11" 220 lbs, Hermitage HS, Richmond VA

http://youtu.be/TUC-Mu6Lswg

YOWZA, Is that how you say that?  Green is college ready right now.  He is ripping runs off left and right while breaking tackles and ankles.  He's a perfect RB size at 5'11" 220 lbs and runs low and violent while looking to be playing some legit competition. This is the type of back that an OL can get a rhythm going with, he can wear a defense down.  Can be a threat in the passing game also with screens and the size to pickup blitzing LB's.  If Isaac is the total package then Green is the guy delivering the package.  He's a 20-25 carry type of RB and would fit Michigan perfectly.


Deveon Smith - 5'11" 210 lbs, Howland HS, Warren OH.

http://youtu.be/Vd7kCeT60IM

Talk about under the radar.  While Green shows more quickness and speed, Smith breaks more tackles in that clip than all the others combined.  Has that low center of gravity and is physical as green, Warren, Ohio is no joke when it comes to talented teams either.  He looks to pickup a blitz in one clip and stop the defender dead in his tracks.  Also plays SS, so he has that defensive mentality, blue collar team player is what I see.  Being from Warren and somewhat close to Ann Arbor, this may be the leader for a spot in the backfield.  They can't go wrong with a player like that.

Jordan Wilkins - 6'1" 195 lbs, ST. Benedict At Auburndale, Cordova, TN

http://youtu.be/uCdxufS7Sbo

Wilkins may be the most athletic of all the backs here.  Taller, leaner and catches the ball like a WR.  I also like the way he sets up his blocks while still in the backfield, his vision keeps him from some potentially big losses. Wilkins could be lined up in the slot but I don't think he is that bruiser like Michigan RB's of old. 


All these guys are good looking backs but here are my choices in order.  You never know, they could take two backs in this class.

1.Green
2.Smith
3.Isaac
4.Davis
5.Wilkins

Bowman's Football Planet: NEW RECRUIT AND TIDBITS

Bowman's Football Planet: NEW RECRUIT AND TIDBITS: Most of my thoughts are not original but my evaluations are. According to Scoutingohio.com, which I visit often to look at ohio's best...

NEW RECRUIT AND TIDBITS

     Most of my thoughts are not original but my evaluations are.  According to Scoutingohio.com, which I visit often to look at ohio's best talent,  Michigan's latest recruit Jaron Dukes is ranked somewhere around 23rd in the state.  Now the top ranked player will probably be CB and ohio recruit Cam Burrows from Trotwood.  Now here is my tiff.  Last time Dukes and Burrows matched up against each other when Marion Franklin faced Trotwood, Dukes had 6 receptions for 173 yds and two TD's.  Burrows could not deal with him, plain and simple.  Burrows is supposively 6'2" 180 lbs, I stood right next to him and I predict 6'0" - 6'1" tops, maybe 175lbs.  I am not saying Burrows is a bum by any means, he had an impressive offer list before commiting to ohio.  Scoutingohio is somewhat of a homer site to say the least. 

    Before the rankings come out of their top ten players in the state,  I will give you their top two before it happens. 1. Burrows 2. Jalin Marshall, both ohio commits.  Last years rankings at the end of the season had 8 of the top ten as ohio commits and NO.1 being OLB, Josh Perry.  Now if you watch highlights of Perry you see potential but far from a polished LB and definitely not the top player in the state.  Putting him in front of Bolden is somewhat amusing, go look at the highlights, Perry's not even in the same building as Bolden.  They also ranked Dodson and Decker higher than Kalis, resentment possibly?  A matter a fact, Decker is ranked higher than both Dodson and Kalis and he is the least impressive of the three.  Adolphus Washington was 11th and should have been no.1, and he is an ohio recruit, what gives? How about Frank Epitropolous from Arlington in Columbus?  A top 20 player?  Hysterical.  Get it together or higher me to do your evaluations. 

  By the way, here is Jaron Dukes highlights.  Look for Burrows to be worked by the Michigan commitment in a couple of these babies.  Trotwood wheres the ram looking helmets.

http://youtu.be/D9_QuTL1HxI

Bowman's Football Planet: FULL STEAM AHEAD

Bowman's Football Planet: FULL STEAM AHEAD: "YOU TALKING TO ME"? What Brady Hoke and staff have done in the last day and a half is...

FULL STEAM AHEAD

                                                "YOU TALKING TO ME"?

   What Brady Hoke and staff have done in the last day and a half is nothing less than mind boggling.  With three commitments for the 2013 recruiting class headed into Saturday,  Michigan wrapped up the weekend with an additional 8 commits,  bringing the total to 11.  There were people calling Michigan's 2012 class "a fluke",  saying that Hoke benefited from ohio's unfortunate situation with a coaching change and the scandal.  What was just witnessed over the weekend leads many to believe that was not the case,  Hoke and his staff can flat out recruit.  They have just become the class that others will be compared to.  Do some of these kids have time to change their mind and go elsewhere?  Yes, no doubt,  but only one player decommitted from the 2012 class and has yet to sign with anyone.  This leads me to believe that, if you leave Michigan then you are lost.


   Those who follow this blog probably understand my theory on why Hoke and his staff land so many early commitments.  They don't sit around waiting for recruiting services to rank players and then offer the 5 stars. Michigan understands what they want in a player regardless of services rankings, they recognize  a "Michigan type of player" and pursue with confidence that is who they want.  Hoke and his staff throw out a ton of offers and if you want to be a Wolverine, then you best commit early.  They want to build a team now, and plant that "Michigan way" ASAP,  get that bond started immediately.  These kids will return to Ann Arbor repeatedly for games and to help recruit new prospects, and when they do,  they will be comfortable and familiar with each other already.   Who questions Hoke now? 

Look at these 8 players that committed this weekend.  This includes 4 highly touted OL that have offer sheets that  leave no top program off the list.  1 player who is a FB/DE/LB,  1 TE/DE, 1 DE, 1 ATH.  Everyone of them are no less than a 4 star player and that is after their JR seasons.  Half of them could become 5 star players and that is the beauty of the coaching staff. You don't wait until a kid becomes a  5 star player to offer them,  you offer a four star player who has 5 star potential,  then you mold them.

OL

Logan Tulley-Tillman - 6'7" 285 lbs, Peoria, Illinois

http://youtu.be/L3qnJdSVmSc

20 offers as a JR with every school on board.  Why?  He's a  massive left tackle prospect with all the tools.  Who knows, he could move to right tackle if necessary to protect southpaw Shane Morris's blindside.  He was looking to take all his official visits this summer but a couple hours ago decided to be a part of something special.  He chose Blue.  His highlights show nothing but sound skills and no risk factor.


Kyle Bosch - 6'5" 280 lbs, Wheaton, Illinois

http://youtu.be/mldlqXERw4g

Will Bosch be the center they are looking for?  He could transition over I'm sure.  If  he stays at guard, no problem.  This kid is a bulldozer to say the least.  He moves DL and if there happens to be a LB in his way when he gets to the second level, he will be flattened.  He's a very physical run blocker and seems to win a majority of the battles up front.  With the depth that Michigan has added on the OL, there will be plenty of battles to be won and loss in the next couple years.

Chris Fox- 6'6" 290 lbs, Colorado

http://youtu.be/e6ugsCrICbo

It makes you wonder with all those defensive highlights if Fox may transition over to DL if necessary.  With the depth issues being answered, he seems to be a a nice defensive prospect.  Watch him deal with double teams and cut blocking with nice technique.  Hoke wants massive lineman and Fox fits the bill. He's capable of playing on both sides of the ball.


David Dawson - 6'4" 295 lbs, Detroit Cass Tech

http://youtu.be/fiz_2Z9FBh0

Dawson is another who could play the center position.  He looks to be as athletic as any of the OL and is equally productive in run blocking and pass protection.  He opens holes with excellent timing, and runs his man totally out of the picture.  In pass protection he doesn't let him near the QB,  his man is no threat whatsoever.  Another stud and all of these kids are quality OL and be honest with you ,  can't find many flaws with any of them.

Jourdan Lewis - 5'9" 165 lbs, Detroit Cass Tech

http://youtu.be/zZFJOJV7EUs

Lewis is one of those freakish athletes with exceptional quickness, agility and speed.  Obviously not very physical but is a prototypical field corner who can deal with man to man coverage.  He also is a return specialists with the open field vision and moves that make him a threat to make big plays.  He's a special teams nightmare for opposing teams.


Wyatt Shallman - 6'3" 245 lbs, Detroit Central Catholic

http://youtu.be/ziraqwcsJNs

Shallman is a FB/DE/LB at the next level.  He's a blue collar guy who makes plays but doesn't impress me with anything imparticular.  My guess would be that he's a FB in college, he can block and can catch the ball out of the backfield.  I am sure it is possible that DE or LB could also be his future position but Shallman looks to be a role player and not a star.

Jake Butt - 6'6" 220 lbs, Pickerington North HS, Columbus, Ohio

http://youtu.be/nsAsJOEnlhk

When evaluating Jake Butt last week, I made a prediction that he would be a TE at the next level but Michigan may have different ideas.  He is a blue chip player on both sides of the ball. Here is is the thing with Butt,  he is only 16 yrs old and a legit 6'4" currently.  I have met this young man and his frame could hold 30 to 40 lbs with no loss of atleticism whatsoever.  He shows up to Michigan campus at 6'6" - 6'7" 240 lbs with his athletic ability and aggresiveness?  You possibly have the makings of a tremendous WDE/rush end.  If not, then you have a massive athletic blocking TE with exceptional receiving skills.  You can't go wrong with this commitment.  Jake Butt was already closing in on 20 offers with more to come in the near future.


Taco Charlton - 6'6" 240 lbs, Pickerington Central HS, Columbus, Ohio

http://youtu.be/hnSYLLyPYNE

There is a few things about Charlton that have made me skeptical of his game.  Yes, I know he passes the eyeball test, long and athletic with good speed.  He doesn't show the physicalty to penetrate the OL from the SDE position.  He is inconsisitent, there are times where he is quick off the ball, sheds a blocker and is in the QB's face in a split second.  Then there are times where he takes plays off, looks slow and lethargic and his desire to play is in question.  That's why his offer sheet is a bit smaller than Jake butt's,  he is a combine monster but in game situations there is no time for relaxing.  Michigan's staff see's the potential and to be honest with you, Charlton's frame is made to hold some serious weight as well.  Looks to fit the weakside better, either at WLB or WDE.

Bowman's Football Planet: TACO AND BUTT!

Bowman's Football Planet: TACO AND BUTT!: Jake Butt - DE/TE - 6'4" 210 lbs, Pickerington North HS, Columbus, Ohio http://youtu.be/nsAsJOEnlhk The Touchdown Clu...

TACO AND BUTT!

         Jake Butt - DE/TE - 6'4" 210 lbs,  Pickerington North HS, Columbus, Ohio

   http://youtu.be/nsAsJOEnlhk

    The Touchdown Club Of Columbus banquet was a great place to talk to some blue chip HS football players and their parents as well.  Two people that I talked to for quite a while was the parents of Michigan recruit Jake Butt.  When I seen Jake, the first thing I thought was QB, this was before I was introduced to the young man.  He is 6'4" and not 6'6" but his dad told me he was placed a grade ahead as a youngster instead of the typical holding them back.  Some parents hold their kids back so they will be ahead of other players physically and also in the maturation process.  This kid is actually 16 yrs old currently, he has some filling out to do to catch his height and his dad told me that he was informed by his DR that he is going to grow.  Your looking at a kid who could be a legit 6'6" -6'7" and 230 lbs by the time he graduates.


  I think Jake is a TE even know this clip is of all defensive highlights.  He is a standout basketball player, he is a great athlete and has hands to go with it.  He has the ability to play DE with some weight gain but doesn't have that killer instinct of a SDE of doesn't look to be a pass rusher.  I noticed he gets stood up and pushed back before he can get off his blocks and make plays.  I got a feel that TE is where he wants to play as well.  His dad loves Ohio but had nothing but great things to say about Hoke ( he focused on the Hagerup muffed punt during the Ohio game, Hoke took Hagerup aside and consoled him and told him to shake it off )  that type of coaching is respected by people and parents also.  He pointed out he didn't like the way coach Kelly screams at his players, even know Jake likes ND quite a bit.  Jake's mom said she was headed up for this weeks visit and loves Ann Arbor and coach Hoke.  Her quote was " I have not found a flaw yet about Michigan ".  It seems that Michigan is favorite currently but when I asked him about ND, he said " if they would offer me I might go there".

     

      Taco Charlton- DE - 6'6" 250 lbs, Pickerington Central HS, Ohio



http://youtu.be/hnSYLLyPYNE

 Charlton plays at the rival school of friend Jake Butt.  Pick Central was also the high school of all the Boren brothers, Jamie wood , Raymon Taylor of Michigan to name a few.  I am skeptical about Charlton.  He isn't 6'6" 250 lbs first of all, he's nut much bigger than Jake Butt. I've heard rumors about his desire for the game and it shows on the highlights.  He doesn't play with that sense of urgency of a blue chip player. He seems slow and lethargic at times and then shows glimpses of  playing hard and with an attitude.  When watching a player that is a major D1 DE, I would like to see him either blow his man away with speed or just manhandle his opponent, both seem to be missing. 

http://youtu.be/cmAI_feqxEs

This is the 2011 D1 state football championship between Pick Central and Cleveland St. Ignatius.  I wanted to see Charlton on a big stage against equal talent.  This is my concern with him, no penetration or ability to get past the OL.  He's good on sweeps and stretch plays as far as getting away from his man and chasing RB's down.  He lacks upper body and hand strength.  The Michigan coaching staff sees potential in him and so do I but currently he's a risk.  Regardless, both these kids have Michigan offers.
 

Bowman's Football Planet: OHIO VS MICHIGAN, WHO WON THE RECRUITING WAR?

Bowman's Football Planet: OHIO VS MICHIGAN, WHO WON THE RECRUITING WAR?: I have been wanting to do this write up since signing day but I had to wait for some final commitments to happen. When I started scoutin...

Bowman's Football Planet: MICHIGAN PLAYERS ARE BIG AGAIN!

Bowman's Football Planet: MICHIGAN PLAYERS ARE BIG AGAIN!: First and foremost, this picture is dedicated to a buckeye fan by the name of Chad Hamm. He's going to give me crap about this one. I ...

Bowman's Football Planet: EARLY COMMITS AND BIG TARGET(S)

Bowman's Football Planet: EARLY COMMITS AND BIG TARGET(S): Michigan has three commitments for 2013 currently. Let's take a look and throw in a quick evaluation. Shane Morris - 6'3" 200 lbs, De...

EARLY COMMITS AND BIG TARGET(S)

Michigan has three commitments for 2013 currently.  Let's take a look and throw in a quick evaluation.

  Shane Morris - 6'3" 200 lbs, De LA Salle High School  Michigan

  http://youtu.be/PiUmdjN12eo

 Weaknesses                                                Strengths

 a bit anxious at times  before the snap           plays under center and shotgun
 sometimes throws off of back foot                can throw on the run rolling right or left
                                                                    accuracy
                                                                    uses check downs
                                                                    poise
                                                                    arm strength
                                                                    speed in the open field
                                                                    keeps eyes down field on the run
                                                                    hits tight windows

You get the drift with Morris.  As a junior in high school, there are not many, if any,  QB's as polished at such a young age. Another strength of Morris is that he committed before his junior season started and has been recruiting like a demon.  People have questioned Michigan going back to the pro-style offense because of Denard and the smaller, quicker slot receivers.  You have heard the saying " if it's not broke, don't fix it ", this is what is going on currently with the offense.  Michigan has tweaked some things but with a weapon like Denard, he has to have the ball in his hands a majority of the time.  Shane Morris is evidence of which way they want to go when Denard leaves Michigan.

For those who follow recruiting have probably caught on to how big Hoke is going on both sides of the ball, mainly OL and DL.  With Morris being such a good passer,  it puts everything into perspective.  Michigan's 2012 class and the current offers for 2013 are very clear.  Big, strong, smart QB with a great arm.  Huge OL and one new revelation is the size of the WR's Michigan has brought in for this season and eyeballing for next.  Darboh and Chesson at 6'2" and 6'3" and TE's Funchess and Williams at 6'4" and 6'6".  Offers out for 2013 WR's Jaron Dukes, 6'5" and Kevin Gladney 6'2".  No more running around the defense and slice and dice but beat teams with mismatches of size, huge OL, DL and WR's over small corners. 

  Dymonte Thomas -  S/ RB 6'2" 180 lbs, Alliance , Ohio


http://youtu.be/JFQD0YwNqJU

You would think by his highlights that Thomas is going to be a RB on the next level, he could be.  He's been playing behind an all-state RB named Alden Hill who is headed to Tennessee.  Thomas will likely be a safety at the next level. An all state wrestler, Thomas is physical and an excellent tackler who takes good angles, he also does a good job of keeping his body controlled and balanced in pursuit.  There isn't much he can't do on the field but  looks to be a vicious SS in the future.

 


Khalid Hill - TE - 6'3" 235 lbs, Detroit Crockett


http://youtu.be/bRAb_hmt2VQ


A few things stand out about Khalid Hill, the first is how fast he gets off the line, past the DL and LB's.  He shows good hands and the ability to gain yards after contact.  Obviously he isn't a tall TE but quick and surprising speed.  I also noticed he is equally good on the weak and strong side, blocks well and is quick in and out of his breaks on short routes.  Then there is the fact ( look at picture above ) that he looks to be strictly business.  Are you kidding me? That's the face of an angry ass man ready to kick some tail and take names in the near future. 


These are a couple kids they have offered and are leaning towards Ann Arbor early in the process.  Very early, but the sooner they offer these kids, the more visits they receive from them and in turn the recruit gets familiar every time he visits.  There is a method to the madness and it's preparing a kid to be comfortable with your program and your coaching staff.


Logan Tulley-Tillman - OL - 6'7" 280 lbs, Peoria, Illinois


http://youtu.be/L3qnJdSVmSc

Tillman has all the tools and also an offer sheet that leaves no major D1 program absent.  Size is perfect but hopefully he doesn't grow taller, I think there comes a point where a T can be over sized and take from his ability to deal with smaller , faster players.  With that said,  Tillman has been to Michigan six times already this early in the process, this is a huge plus.  He is an absolute wall on the edge with great footwork and hands, also a strong run blocker.  He will take all his visits but this kid is so highly touted that at sometime he will get tired of traveling all over the country for trips.  Remember he has the rest of his junior year and whole senior season for schools to bug him,  it takes a toll on a young man.


Jaron Dukes-WR-6'5" 200 lbs, Marion Franklin HS  Columbus, Ohio

http://youtu.be/D9_QuTL1HxI

This is ironic, Dukes plays in the Columbus City League which was my stomping grounds during my scouting days.  Marion Franklin is the cream of the crop in the league and owns a majority of the talent.  Marion Franklin wins a whole lot of games, so first and foremost Dukes is a winner.  Now, Dukes is one of the huge targets that I was talking about Michigan is focusing on to transition back to the pro-style offense.  Dukes is in a league where nobody can deal with him, his size, hands, athleticism and physical tools clearly come into play on this highlight.  He also breaks tackles and runs well in the open field. 


Kevin Gladney- WR- 6'2" 180 lbs, Akron Firestone HS  Ohio

http://youtu.be/hD-SuB_hxkg

The first time I watched Gladney on film was last year, I thought he looked a little rough on the edges.  He has progressed well in one year.  I questioned his speed at one time and then noticed on this film  where the QB was taking a 3 step drop and throwing it as far as he could,  Gladney seemed to pull up more than once to wait for the ball, he's fast.  He possesses great hands and the ability to go over the middle.  He's the latest in Michigan's new WR targets, goes up and gets it, shows nice separation, runs well in the open field,  Shane Morris will be happy with a target of his caliber.



                                                      

MICHIGAN PLAYERS ARE BIG AGAIN!

  First and foremost, this picture is dedicated to a buckeye fan by the name of Chad Hamm.  He's going to give me crap about this one.  I told him a while back, "even know I love recruiting and evaluating all these kids, you won't find me sweating them and getting pictures taken with 18 yr old kids".  Guess what,  last night at The Downtown Athletic Club Of Columbus Banquet held at the LC Pavilion,  I broke that golden rule.  That's right folks,  Here's a 39 YR old man with a goofy smile on his face with, not one, not two, but three 18 yr old kids and the only thought on my mind was "wait til Chad sees this", I'm such a hypocrite.

 This banquet hosts all the blue chip players in Ohio and some of the college football stars of today......Montee Ball and Kellen Moore were just a couple in attendance.  One positive about the picture above is to show how big these Michigan 2012 commitments are.  As you can see, I am quite the specimen at 5'9" 175 lbs, all muscle of course.  This picture shows Toledo Whitmer DE Chris Wormley to my right, 6'5" 250 lbs.  That house with a tie on my immediate left is OL Kyle Kalis from Lakewood, 6'5" 305 lbs and 6'6" 265 lb Mentor, Ohio DE Tom Strobel on the end.  All three kids were very well spoken and humble, to be totally honest with you, they were the three biggest kids in the house last night including college players also,  hands down.  Kalis is one of those kids that shakes the building with every step he takes,  he seems to receive a simultaneous gasp from the crowd when he steps on stage because of his size.



OK, OK,  I have to talk about this story because it was funnier than hell.  Ohio fans may not want to hear this part of the story, but hey, they brought it on their selves.  Jerry Kennedy, a friend of mine, who is an avid ND fan and financial advisor has graciously invited me to this banquet the last two years.  By far, we have the most obnoxious table at the event.  Receiving sideways looks from people and other tables full of people is just the norm.  Sitting to my right was Jerry, to my left was Pitt RB, Ray Graham and beside him was ex Pitt QB, Pat Bostick.  At the table to our left sat two ex ND coaches who just joined Urban Meyers staff at Ohio. This is just to paint a picture for you before  I tell you about the final award given of the night, which was brilliant to some (  me and jerry, Ray Graham and Bostick ) and a heart breaker for others, Ohio fans and the table next to us.  By the way, Ray Graham and Bostick fit right in with us, it was clearly evident they were amused by our table to say the least.

The final award recipient of the evening was Wisconsin RB Montee Ball.  Ball received two awards and after his brief speech Ball started to walk off stage without grabbing both his award trophies.  At this time, the MC, who looked like the kin of the man behind the curtain in The Wizard Of Oz, says these words with no hesitation " don't forget these awards up here, we'll sell em ".  Now, the MC probably didn't realize that he just set up the biggest joke of the evening, and also didn't realize that the man to my right, my friend Jerry Kennedy had the punchline ready as if it was prepared all along.  Jerry, with a not so quiet voice and a somewhat suddenly silent room hollered these priceless words " that's true, this is Ohio ".  If I was drinking something it would have been all over the entire table and everyone sitting at it.  Unfortunately I wasn't and a solid belly laugh was released at a high volume,  Pitt RB Ray Graham and Pat Bostick seemed to be quite amused as well as a few others.  Who wasn't you ask?  Well, the two ex ND coaches at the next table who have transplanted to Urban Meyers staff gave a non appreciated look, but nobody cared what they thought anyways.

OHIO VS MICHIGAN, WHO WON THE RECRUITING WAR?

 I have been wanting to do this write up since signing day but I had to wait for some final commitments to happen.  When I started scouting for "FORBES" back in 2007, my focus was on players from central Ohio and the next year moved to the Columbus City league.  During that time I became familiar with the top players in Columbus and my interest in evaluating had me searching  scoutingohio.com  for the top talent in ohio.  Ohio's 2012 class has 14 players from in-state and I have been watching film on those kids for a couple years, I am familiar with all of them and their game.  Another reason for comparing these classes is this, you should always worry about the enemy.  If you don't think I have been watching ohio's recruiting class all season, your wrong.  I don't care what anybody says about "why are you worried about ohio so much"?  They are the rival,  the enemy, and most importantly,  who you should gauge Michigan against in recruiting.  These are the best recruiting classes both these teams have assembled in the same season that I can remember.

   ohio -  One week before urban meyer was hired,  Adolphus Washington committed to ohio.  Everything changed after that,  meyer accepted the job and put on a recruiting clinic.  before he got to campus ohio was ranked roughly 25th and nine commitments later they sit anywhere from 3rd to 5th in the country.  They filled some needs at DL,  OL and DB.

   Michigan - Michigan received 20 of their 25 commitments before the 2011 football season even started.  That is why the last five months have been so boring in the recruiting process.  With that said though,  they answered  depth issues with OL, DL and LB's.


   I am going to go through each unit, evaluate each player and then tell you which team I think gets the nod at that unit.  Obviously this is my opinion but I will explain why I like and don't like certain players regardless of star rankings.  I will explain why my opinion of a kid is that he is over or underrated also.   This is an evaluation of talent out of the 2012 class coming straight out of high school.  There is no way of me predicting which of these players may not make it to campus this fall or who the dummies are who will never make it because they won't attend class either.  Then there is the kids who have never been pushed as hard as their going to be this spring and will fall through the cracks.  I  talked about this the other day, I will repeat it, there are 50 kids between these two classes and very good classes at that.  Four  years from now there will be roughly 30 still in school,  12-15 will be productive players and 8-10 will go pro.  That is today's college football folks.



HERE WE GO

we will start with offense

QB's

ohio

Cardale Jones - 6'5" 225 lbs, Glenville

http://youtu.be/BkVbh5dzGZk

I think this is a huge pickup for ohio. He has had a whole year to set and mature at Fork Union.  He committed for 2011 and with the transfer of Taylor Graham and Guiton not really being a feasible backup, Jones has a chance to see action this year.  If anything happens to Miller they need someone to be able to step in and not lose a step.  Jones can sling the rock and shows he has touch and a rifle both.  He rolls out well to both sides and is athletic enough to run if necessary.  One of the details I like about a QB is the way he can sell a fake on a play action, this is overlooked but important for buying time and freezing the defense, Jones does it well.  I wouldn't be surprised if meyer puts a package in for him in some of those non-competitive games to get him some experience early.


 Michigan

There was no focus on a QB with Denard going into his senior yr, Gardner having experience, Bellamy as a third option and the fact that they have blue chipper Shane Morris coming in next year.

EDGE - ohio


RB's

Michigan

Drake Johnson - 6'1" 205 lbs, Ann Arbor


http://youtu.be/P15gEI5EGz8

Johnson is one of those kids that had the ridiculous numbers in high school and was also a track star.  He's a 3 star recruit by scout, rivals and 247 and I agree with all of them. He shows good speed and the ability to get to the corner but isn't very physical for his size and his change of direction isn't on par for a top notch player.  Maybe RB coach Fred Jackson can implement some good direction to make him a productive player for the future.


Dennis Norfleet - 5'7" 165 lbs, Detroit
http://youtu.be/prLLifss1Bw

This was a nice last second pickup for Michigan, a signing day surprise.  Norfleet's 4.3 speed, vision and agility are those of a top D1 prospect. Unfortunately his size keeps him from being an every down back at the college level.  He is actually a 4 star prospect by all sites and he shines in 7 on 7 tournaments where catching the ball and running in space is focused on, he is great in that aspect.  It's hard to keep a kid like that off the field.


Sione Houma - 6'0" 215 lbs, Salt Lake



  http://youtu.be/4CSmLyx8Q6E

I like this kid simply because he committed way back and he just played football, you didn't hear any crap about him all season.  He wanted to go to Michigan, made the decision and is a kid who will do anything for the team.  He is slated as a FB, he is athletic and has good speed and hands.  He thrives on blocking and will probably gain some weight and become a full time blocking back at Michigan.


ohio


Brionte Dunn - 6'1" 220 lbs, Canton Glen Oak

http://youtu.be/xh0MHPn_g-Q

When ohio and Michigan were fighting over this kid I truly believe the focus wasn't on talent but more on "who's going  to win this kid over"?.  I don't like Dunn very much and think he is overrated.  He is strictly a north - south runner and he has been clocked as slow as a 4.7 in the 40.  He doesn't have the speed to get the corner, his vision is skeptical also - he seems to run directly into people or piles at that.  His receiving skills are less than par, has battled injury and is fumble prone.  This kid is a 5* 4* 4* by three sites and wasn't invited to any all-American games?  He is strong and runs hard,  he has also enrolled early but my opinion is he doesn't fit meyers offense either.  The highlights are right up there, go look for yourself, there is absolutely nothing explosive about his game,  and there should be with his type of hype.


Warren Ball - 6'2" 215 lbs, Columbus Desales
http://youtu.be/ZR5qfFoLDPU

Warren Ball is the best RB in Ohio, period.  I believed that the first time I watched his highlights and I am more convinced of that today.  Everything I don't like about Dunn I like about Ball.  His feet never stop moving,  great vision and quick for a big back.  Another positive about ball is he can catch the ball out of the backfield or in the slot, he is versatile and can be lined up in different formations. 


EDGE - ohio


WR's and TE's


Ricquan Southward - 6'1" 190 lbs, Lakeland  Fla.


http://youtu.be/9RpCT1DgiUg

This was meyers first commitment as ohio's coach.  He went down to Lakeland,  a place he owned when at Fla, and picked Southward up in a way of saying "I'm back, come see me in ohio". Just my opinion, getting his foot back in the door at that school.  As far as Southward goes, he is a good sized WR who is athletic and if you notice does more than just line up at wide out.  He looks to be good in space and fit meyers offense, he seems to use his body to catch the ball and questions his own hands.

Mike Thomas - 6'4" 205 lbs, Fork Union VA
http://youtu.be/wGBFo6qJA9U


Thomas is a huge target with good hands and does a great job of adjusting his body while the ball is in the air.  He lacks separation but has the size to out jump a smaller corner.  His routes are a bit slow and need tightened up.  He is another kid who hasn't played in a year being at Fork Union.  ohio needs WR's and a big target helps out.


Frank Epitropolous - 6'3" 195 lbs, upper arlington, Ohio


http://youtu.be/z44MBumwCzk

Any kid from UA that gets an offer from ohio goes without hesitation.  Frank E is a hell of an athlete with a 40 in the 4.4 range, good hands, and the best punter in Central Ohio.  They have him penciled as a WR because he isn't physical enough for safety.  In the open field he shows great speed but lacks toughness and
top WR skills.  Don't be surprised if he ends up a full time punter if WR doesn't work out.


TE

Blake Thomas - 6'4" 240 lbs, Cleveland St. Ignatius

http://youtu.be/_OukjHOD038

Thomas is the best receiving TE in ohio because he is such a mismatch for safeties and LB's.  His ability to get in the secondary and find openings makes him an underrated TE in my opinion.  Only a 3* recruit, Thomas is a decent blocker who can lineup in the slot and as a wide out if necessary.  It's pretty impressive to watch a TE run the bubble screen also.  He has great potential with blocking skills, good hands and speed to get open.

MICHIGAN

Amarah Darboh - 6'2" 200 lbs, Des Moine

http://youtu.be/B5ZrtSB8lpU

This is a great fit for Michigan, big body, 4.4 speed and hands to go with it.  Darboh runs great short routes, very quiet upper body and can stop on a dime.  He is big and physical enough to cause corners problems in press coverage and smart enough to find holes against the zone.  He shows great signs of being productive at the next level, being able to out jump defenders  and the versatility to run screen plays and make people miss in the open field.


Jehu Chesson - 6'3" 175 lbs, ST. Louis, Missouri

http://youtu.be/y64PkHcuhrM

I don't know what it is but I like Chesson more than Darboh,  he is taller and is smoother off the line it seems.  What stands out to me is how athletic he is, even more than Darboh.  Chesson looks faster on film and runs away from people as well.  They are both huge pickups for Michigan.


TE's

Devin Funchess - 6'4" 205 lbs,  Farmington Hills, Michigan


http://youtu.be/WHXgs6ju0E4

Funchess is a top ten TE in the nation and maybe the most athletic.  At only a little over 200lbs, he looks more like a WR but is slated as a TE and has the best hands out of both units.  Funchess  possesses rare skills for a kid that size and has the ability to be "great" one day.  He will need to add significant weight to line up on the strong side of a college OL, but his receiving skills are unmatched by many and his long stride and YAC make him a potential nightmare for defenses.


AJ Williams - 6'6" 260 lbs, Cincinatti

Having a hard time copying Williams highlights.  Go to scoutingohio.com if you want to see this blocking clinic he puts on.  He is the total opposite of Funchess, he is a blocking TE and actually played LT his senior season.  I think he could play OT with his length and footwork but Michigan is set on him playing TE.  Williams does a great job of using his leverage, getting a defender off balance and running them 10-15 yards before planting them into the ground.  What is so impressive about AJ is during his interviews, he talks about doing whatever the coaches want him to do, what's best for the team.  You kind of get this impression that he loves blocking and does a great job getting to the second level and overpowering LB's.  He is a coaches type of player.


EDGE - Michigan


OL

MICHIGAN

Blake Bars - 6'5" 275 lbs, Nashville
http://youtu.be/k8_XtLLAeoI

Bars is a sound run blocker who plays at good pad level.  He isn't overpowering but doesn't have a problem tying his man up and playing til the whistle blows.  I don't know where he fits in the OL, some of these 3* kids end up being surprisingly good because they are smart and coach able.  Bars fits that mold but will need some weight to play guard, I question if he is athletic enough for tackle.


Ben Braden - 6'6" 319 lbs, Rockford Michigan

http://youtu.be/DtZjIS9INQg

The massive Braden was Michigans first commitment for the 2012 season.  My opinion is that Braden is also a massive project.  For such a big kid, he has a problem moving smaller players around.  He also needs work with his pad level, awareness and leverage.  He seems confused on blocking skills and should be driving people 30 yds down field at his size.  I understand why they recruited him, I'm sure they know he's a project but his frame can't be coached.


Erik Magnuson - 6'6" 275 lbs, Encinitas, CA.

http://youtu.be/Rx34qIl372U

Erik Magnuson is one of two All-American on Michigans OL haul for 2012.  He is a true LT , great in pass protection and run blocking.  One thing that stands out is the way he pass protects coming out of a 3 point stance, he's not cheating up in a 2 point.  Another positive of his game, he has nice technique off the snap with the way he sets up and gets on the inside of the jersey.  A basketball player as well, he is another OL that plays til the whistle and has the nasty attitude to go with it. 


Kyle Kalis - 6'5" 305 lbs, Lakewood, Ohio



http://youtu.be/rOly-urn72I

Kalis is Mr. Controversial with his decommitment from ohio and then committed to Michigan with the help of good friend Tom Strobel (strobel is a SDE commit for Michigan).  Kalis is a high school football player who had an NFL body at age 16.  Believe the hype with Kalis?  Watch the highlights, he finishes every play by getting off of some kid he has just buried into the ground,  he doesn't waste his time helping them up either.  He plays like that all the time,  he is an absolute bully on the field.  Kalis will move from tackle to guard at the next level and barring injury, he should be playing soon.  Kalis was the best OL in ohio this past season and maybe the year before also.  Thrives on finishing plays and will be a RB's best friend in the near future.  Kalis was an All- American.


Dan Gibbs - 6'7" 305 lbs, Seaholm High Michigan

http://youtu.be/xFXXjqpGKvg

Gibbs is another massive, violent OL that Michigan coaches adore.  Yes, Gibbs lower body is very stiff and his footwork is unorthodox but his upper body strength is above average.  There is something different about his feet, the way he runs is awkward, I don't like it to say the least.  With Kozan still being on the fence between Michigan , Iowa and Auburn, this isn't a bad pickup at the last minute.


ohio

Jacoby Boren - 6'2" 273 lbs, Pickerington , ohio
http://youtu.be/0P_S0sQrrFE

Jacoby is listed at 6'2" 270 lbs, I have stood beside him and he is 250 lbs tops.  I personally think he is the second best center in ohio  behind Huber heights Lovell Peterson.  Jacoby has excellent C skills, he gets out and can pull, gets to the second level with quickness ( it's impressive to pull from the center position).  He also is athletic and strong,  plays low because he is shorter in stature.  With all that said,  I don't think he is big enough to deal with 300 lb DT's and predict he may move to FB or LB.  Meyer claims he doesn't redshirt kids and he needs weight, so a different position is more suitable.


Pat Elflein - 6'3", 270 lbs, Pickerington, ohio

http://youtu.be/mTbuPpYRAzg

Another one of Fickells kids he recruited and you can tell.  Look, before meyer was there, ohio's class was in the mid 20's and this kid is one of the reasons why.  He isn't a bad player but he isn't big or athletic enough to play tackle and not physical enough for an interior lineman.  Maybe meyer can work and make him a quality player but his skills are not of a top OL.


Joey O' Connor - 6'3" 285 lbs, Windsor CO.

http://youtu.be/zcz6IBrs_kA

I love the way this kid plays. He has a thick lower body, when he gets his opponent where he wants and gets his feet moving, it's a wrap.  He does a good job of standing his guy up and getting under him, it's textbook. Then there is the fact that he plays violent and til the play is over, playing til the whistle blows is a huge plus for players, shows effort which is a sign of work ethic.  Looks like a nice OG or maybe even a center with that build.


Taylor Decker - 6'8" 285 lbs, Vandalia, ohio
http://youtu.be/4g7k1USsWrE

Decker is huge and moves a pile.  One of only two pro typical size LT's in ohio this last season and a last second flip from ND.  Has potential to play on the left side but I will talk about that next.  Decker is a bit of a work in progress considering he plays against inferior competition and his height is too much I think, let me explain.  A kid that tall may have a problem with shorter DE's getting in his chest with his pad level being so high.  Never the less, Decker is no chump and shows nice pass protection skills.  He is a good pickup and meyer has plans for him somewhere on that line, left or right tackle I'm sure.


Kyle Dodson - 6'6" 310 lbs, Cleveland
http://youtu.be/SUVBrC77w-w

This is the reason I don't think Decker plays on the left side.  Dodson is , in my opinion, the best LT in ohio.  He has size, strength, athleticism and wingspan.  Those are the tools of a quality LT and the reason meyer fought so hard and succeeded at flipping dodson from Wisconsin.  He could see time early if he gets that nastiness and motor needed for the position.  He is a specimen and could actually hold more weight, as soon as the strength and conditioning coach gets a hold of him, he will be something special to deal with.


Here is how I look at this and my opinion.  Kalis and Magnuson are the two best lineman of both groups and Bars is a sound player.  Braden and Gibbs both need work but are massive at 6'7" and over 300 lbs. There is also the chance of adding Alex Kozan by the weekend.   Dodson has the potential to be very good and Decker has the tools to be a quality Tackle also.  O'Connor shows the effort and nastiness of a true OG or C and in my opinion is the gem of their class.  Comparing Boren and Elflein to Braden and Gibbs.  Boren has the mechanics and skills but lacks the size and Elflein is just a body.  Gibbs and Braden need work but have the NFL size. In that case.

EDGE - Michigan


DL

ohio

Noah Spence - 6'3" 240 lbs, Harrisburg PA

http://youtu.be/Uc_kFOFhRmQ

I didn't realize how much Spence played on the strong side.  He is fast, quick, strong and his hands and footwork are elite.  Does a great job of shedding blockers and just keeping his man at a distance with his strong hands.  His game isn't just limited to outside rushing,  he has a great inside move,  causes turnovers and just completely a menace in the backfield.


Adolphus Washington - 6'4" 240 lbs, Cincinnati Taft



http://youtu.be/VIY1Ez22ohA

Washington is an athletic phenom, an AAU basketball player as well as football star.  Good size,  great strength and fast.  He plays in a city league where great coaching and facilities are less than satisfactory.  With a strength and conditioning coach, great facilities and elite coaching, Washington has future All - American potential.  Just ask 6'9" 320 LB blue chip LT Zach Banner, who at the Army All-American
looked like he was tied to a tree trying to deal with the likes of Washington.


Se'von Pittman - 6'4" 260 lbs, Canton, ohio

http://youtu.be/bbOraeJWwEE

I watched Pittman play on TV during the season,  he has blown up to about 270 lbs and plays with a chip on his shoulder.  Closing Speed?  if you don't know what it is,  watch Pittman chase QB's from behind or put his hands up and just devour em.  He's a nightmare with his length and long strides approaching a QB at full speed, they have no chance of completing a pass at that point.  He is tough against the run also,  his bone jarring hits and  massive arms make it very difficult for RB's to get through his side of the line.


Jamal Marcus - 6'3" 245 lbs, Durham NC


http://youtu.be/DJMJBjUd3ko
Marcus has gained size since these clips.  This is a great example of why star ratings are off at times. Marcus is ranked a 3* star player by more than one site, no way, he's a 4* easy.  Fast off the ball and if he over pursues a play,  he goes back to clean up his mess.  He never gives up on plays and always seems to get to the QB.  I have seen other clips of Marcus and he is also disciplined,  follows the ball and doesn't bite easily on play actions and read options. Underrated player in my mind.


Tommy Schutt - 6'3" 290 lbs, Glen Ellyn, Il.

http://youtu.be/nl1fstXulj8

Schutt is a load and plays at great pad level, very low and strong legs.  He is also athletic for his size,  lines up at DE at times and just powers his way through blockers and gets down the line well.  His downfall is dealing with big OL, he struggled at the Army All-American Game against top notch Lineman.  Doesn't demand the double team a big DT should.


MICHIGAN


Willie Henry - 6'3" 270 lbs, Cleveland Glenville

http://youtu.be/1XNveNDm9So

Henry runs like a LB and weighs 270 lbs.  Does an exceptional job of keeping his head up and being aware, even when he is battling in the trenches.  Stays with the play and chases ball carriers until the play is over.  He is a true DT and his strength and surprisingly nice technique at times let's him battle with the best of them in the middle.  He played some good competition at Glenville. A last second pickup for Michigan.

Matt Godin - 6'6" 265 lbs, Detroit Catholic

http://youtu.be/WE61BqIpDYk

Godin has the ability to tie his man up and get rid of him at the last second to make a play or just push him aside and get in the backfield.  Very good at understanding his gap and filling it,  if it's open then he wreaks havoc on  the QB.  A lean 265 lbs and will probably play the 3 tech, he is athletic, tenacious and a bit of weight will make him a problem for other teams.

Ondre Pipkins - 6'3" 320 lbs, KC, Missouri

http://youtu.be/WbW2XiKvyg0

An Army All-American standout getting rave reviews all week in San Antonio, Pipkins is the epitome of a prototypical DT. Also the fact that he ran down Stefon Diggs on a bubble screen tells you about Pipkins ability. Constantly dealing with double teams and proving to be too much for the opposition.  He's a space eater, gap filler, a great reason to punt instead of going for it in short yardage situations.  Future Michigan LB's will love the way he opens up the whole middle of the field for them to roam and make plays.  Pipkins has a great opportunity to play early with his size and lack of quality DT's in Ann Arbor.


Mario Ojemudia - 6'3" 220 lbs, Farmington Hills, Mi.

http://youtu.be/PL5F4q1qgyQ

Ojemudia plays much bigger than his actual size.  His hands are extremely quick, his ability to shed blockers and penetrate the line are on an elite level.  He rarely misses his target and hits hard with sound tackling skills.  He also runs well in pursuit,  just an excellent DE.  What I noticed on one play was the way he got into the backfield by eluding three would be blockers,  he simply keeps their arms from raising up on him to slow him down.


Chris Wormley - 6'5" 250 lbs, Toledo Whitmer

http://youtu.be/rx0w4w1ex2Y

Wormley isn't the quickest off the line but has good speed when he's able to stretch his legs out in the open field.  Also, he has been known to take a few plays off,  but he is huge, strong and unblock able against a bigger, slower RT.  When he hits a pile it seems people fly everywhere.  He can play on either side but looks to be more of a SDE dealing with the running game and some RT-TE double teams.


Tom Strobel - 6'6" 265 lbs, Mentor,Ohio

http://youtu.be/hzBQp3ai06s

Personally, Strobel is one of my favorite recruits for2012.  I had a short conversation with him about why he chose Michigan, he is a high character and classy young man.  He said his  recruiting trips were focused on what kind of man Michigan would make him and not much football at all.  Academics were a a huge issue and his parents were very verbal about that.  It's hard to not like a kid like that and he is exactly what Michigan recruited for 2012.  Blue collar, high motor, violent hitter, and work ethic, Strobel epitomizes all of them.


EDGE - MICHIGAN


LB's

MICHIGAN


James Ross - 6'1" 215 lbs, Orchard Lake, Mi

.http://youtu.be/12yw1gnRL8I

It's no mystery why Ross is ranked a top three MLB in the country, he's a tackling machine with 179 and roughly 120 solos on the season.  Ross doesn't creep up on RB's , he hits them at full speed.  What else do you want from a MLB?  He has the cover skills to play OLB but his compact size and hitting ability combined with the fact that he racks up so many tackles make him a solid MLB.  Should get some time this year and when Kenny Demens departs, an experienced James Ross should be prepared to take over.


Royce Jenkins Stone - 6'2" 215 lbs, Cass Tech, Detroit

http://youtu.be/OlhNIxndegc

RJS is ranked as high as the no.2 ranked MLB in the country.  I think he is raw and needs coaching but his speed and athleticism is potentially off the chart.  He is a bit overrated to me, yet he does have some good attributes to his game.  He seems to think too much and is a little hesitant.  Those things can be fixed but athletic ability is god given, he has it and fits more of the OLB mold in my opinion.

 Kaleb Ringer - 6'1" 225 lbs, Clayton, Ohio


http://youtu.be/Rg2xTmdTqeQ

Ringer is a bit underrated in my opinion.  He has a knack for finding the ball carrier in high traffic areas. A very strong tackler and understands his responsibility of  his gaps.  Drops in coverage decent also, his size screams MLB and I think that's where he will buy for time.  Michigan has become loaded with LB's and Ringer will have to work hard to be a part of  a great unit.


Joe Bolden - 6'3" 230 lbs, Cincinatti Colerain

http://youtu.be/swO9Ir79Dvo

I said this the first time I seen Bolden on film and I will say it again "Joe Bolden is the best LB in Ohio".  He was raved about by coaches all week leading up to the UA All-American game.  Bolden doesn't waste steps or wait on the opponent to figure things out, he knows what he is going to do and does it.  He's great in coverage, reads the QB exceptionally well in zone and can stick TE's and Rb's with ease. Bolden is athletically gifted and football smart.  With all due respect, Bolden is the best LB from both these teams and one of the most mature and polished players I have seen of any player in the country.  He is the only LB from both hauls that can play SLB, MLB, or WLB.  He doesn't have many flaws and is an early enrolee, look for Bolden to make an immediate impact.


ohio

Josh Perry - 6'3" 225 lbs, Olentangy high, Galena, Ohio

http://youtu.be/O0a9n7g_gtM

Perry is a big, athletic OLB who can run and chase guys down.  He seems to me that he takes bad angles and makes most of his plays down field.  He needs to get more physical but with him being such a good athlete, he can be coached into a productive player.


Luke Roberts - 6'2" 225 lbs, Lancaster, Ohio

http://youtu.be/4X5FgcVrxg8

Roberts looks to be a fundamentally sound and blue collar type of backer.  Does a great job of getting to the ball carrier before he gets to the open field and goes to make the tackle  instead of waiting for the opponent to get to him.  He is a good tackler, wrapping up his target, and avoiding blockers.  Runs well and defends sweeps and stretch plays before the RB gets the corner.


David Perkins - 6'2" 210 lbs, South Bend, Ind.
http://youtu.be/T_2RdpJ2Pkw

Perkins has that will and desire that coaches long for.  He's a beast coming off the edge and looks to be quicker than the RB's.  He's not having a problem getting to them before they get to the hole or blasting the QB's in the process of their roll outs or option plays.  Great speed, good athlete and hunger, has that awareness also. 


 Camren Williams - 6'2" 200 lbs, W. Roxbury Mass.

http://youtu.be/g72MGNGhaB8

Nice OLB prospect, good cover skills and sideline to sideline speed.  Needs a little size and has some SS qualities.  Nice athlete who fits Meyers plan for a fast swarming defense.  A guy who can run with slots and RB's in space. 


EDGE - MICHIGAN


DB'S

ohio

Tyvis Powell - 6'3" 180 lbs, Bedford, Ohio

http://youtu.be/fUbeasZJMbM

Safeties and corners are the toughest to evaluate on film unless you have a wide screen clip.  They are constantly in and out of the picture.  With that said, Powell obviously has the ability to play FS and CB.  There are times where he is 15 yds off the line of scrimmage and can get up for run support.  That is good reaction, knowing the pass isn't coming and the RB is headed your way.  He has that awareness and physical play that is a plus from the safety position. Looks to play the cover 2 and man to man equally well.


Devin Bogard - 6'1" 190 lbs, Cleveland Glenville

http://youtu.be/o-_ABGUX-7w

I could have showed a four minute clip but I showed this short one for a reason.  This is a perfect example of  a player that is so impressive, you only need a hand full of plays to understand the skills.  Bogard is an absolute stud.  Good size, very physical, hard hitter, makes plays in the backfield all from the SS position.  One of those talents you want to just let roam the field and let him do what he wants.  Plays like a LB but even more impressive with his speed and the way he just closes on ball carriers like a quick snakebite. 


Armani Reeves - 5'10" 185 lbs, West Roxbury, Mass.


http://youtu.be/KCf1rjgLFg4

Reeves has been recruited as a CB, because , well..Cb's are the best athletes on the field.  Armani Reeves is used to being the best athlete on the field and has the cover skills to go with it.  Watch him come off his man and eat that screen play up on that first defensive play, then he lays a lick on him for good measure.  My question is, how do you not let him play offense?  This kid is electric in space with the ball in his hands.  His 4.4 speed is very clear on that first KO return,  he gets the corner at the last second and turns up field with about six inches between he and the sidelines, impressive.  Urban Meyer has to let this kid touch the ball at some time, I'm betting sooner than later.


Najee Murray - 5'11" 172 lbs, Steubenville, Ohio

http://youtu.be/M22ciLgmvx8

"THE STEUBENVILLE NIGHTMARE"  This kid is the one who is under the radar, yes he is a 4 star recruit, but he isn't talked about often.  Does he not do anything well?  He is the most violent 180 lb DB I have seen since Chuck Cecil, OK, maybe that's stretching it, but he looks to have opposing players crawling off the field after crushing blows.  Then there is the plays where he just comes flying into the film clip and into the backfield to knock some poor sap 3 feet in the air.  He covers well and has the make up speed to fall behind on slants and still get a hand in to knock the ball out.  Like Reeves, he has that offensive side as well.  His routes are as good if not better than any WR on here, he is quick off the line and hits top speed in just a few steps.  Watch the separation he gets from the corners and safeties. His most impressive skill is the way he slips past the LB's and into the secondary with no time for reaction from the defense.  Just exceptional ability to get open with unbelievable quickness.


MICHIGAN

Terry Richardson - 5'9" 165 lbs, Cass Tech, Detroit

http://youtu.be/tt04Y5FAGp0

Richardson is arguably the best cover corner in the Midwest.  Classic field corner, wide side of the field against the best receiver, a very dangerous place to be and defines the term "on an island".  There are only a few kids that can turn-n-go on his level, he has the ability to hit that zone where he starts to run the WR's routes before they do.  He's always making plays on the ball and not the receiver.  He struggled a bit at the UA All-American game on special teams but Michigan has plenty of return guys.  He's very quick but his straight line speed isn't that impressive, he runs a 4.5 but actually looks a bit slower in pads.

Allen Gant - 6'2" 205 lbs, Sylvania Southview, Ohio

http://youtu.be/Coj1X4FpwMU

Gant's old man played at Michigan and that always plays a part in the recruitment process.  Not that Gant is a slouch, he has good speed and makes plays on both sides of the ball.  He doesn't blow my mind but sometimes that's not what makes a good college player.  He is a high character kid that won't flirt with trouble,  looks to be a SS and has the size to play the position.


Jarrod Wilson - 6'2" 190 lbs, Akron, Ohio

http://youtu.be/bXXwuz2LsMM

Wilson was the top FS in ohio last season.  He does a super job of reading the QB's eyes and his break on the ball is truly at a top level.  He's always around the deep ball and gets his hands on more of them than most WR's.  Another of his positives is he is deadly with the ball in his hands, a pick 6 isn't out of the ques
tion.

Jeremy Clark - 6'4" 195 lbs, Madisonville, KY.

Can't find Clark's highlight reel.  At 6'4", Clark runs a 4.47 40 and DC Mattison said he seen something special when he camped at Michigan.  I'll take his word for it.  I did see a clip a while back of Clarke and he could be the steal of the class being ranked so low, small offer list  and playing against inferior competition leaves you off most blue chip rosters. Excellent reason to show you belong, you can play at that level.  It will be interesting to see how he progresses in the spring.


EDGE- ohio

RANDOM RAMBLINGS

   Dude above is a stud
   


  Waiting for Michigan and ohio to officially wrap up recruiting, then I am going to do a piece on both teams.  Seems that Meyer is taking some heat for flipping kids from different programs.  What's the problem? Seriously, if your favorite teams coach was flipping kids like flapjacks, not just any player either, top notch talent, you would be elated.  As a Michigan fan I would love to sit here and bash Meyer for what he has done but I cannot do it, it's too easy but not worthy of ridicule.  What he has done is what coaches do and will continue to do in the everchanging world of recruiting.  It is more evident today than ever how big and popular college football recruiting has become.  I can tell you for a fact that there will be thousands of Michigan fans glued to their computers at 7:00 PM to see if 5 star OL Jordan Diamond will choose Michigan over Auburn and Arkansas.  Though I think Diamond is overrated and not worthy of 5 stars, I will be also because it lifts their team ranking.


  Star rankings are the madness behind recruiting rankings and personally I think some of them are way off.  I see kids on film that are 3* players that blow my mind and some 5* that have me scratching my head.  Give me 4 - 3* LB's over 2- 5* anyday.  The reasoning is you have a better chance of  one of the 3* players producing simply becuase there is more of them.  Take a recruiting class with 25 kids and in four years a little over half may still be around, a few in jail, some have no discipline or work ethic.  Of those 25, 10 have produced at the college level, 8 are really good players and five go pro.  That is the reality of college football and expectations.
 

   I obviously stole this picture off of one of my favorite sites which is mgoblog.com.  This is Michigans current 2012 class without two more possible commits.  Seven all-Americans and a slew of all state standouts make up this excellent class of recruits.  I would like to dive more into it but saving for big blog I will do next week.