Inside the Fish Bowl: Early July Football Recruiting Update

Posted onAuthorGarrett Fishaw

Roseboro Narrows it Down

One of the guys that look destined to be in this class, 4* DE Darian Roseboro, just released his top 6 schools and whataya know, the Wolverines were listed at the top (even though he said it was \”in no order\”). That list included Michigan, NC State, Alabama, Tennessee, North Carolina and Clemson.

With Roseboro expected to make a decision later this summer and expecting to visit for the BBQ, it is looking even better for the Maize and Blue. If the BBQ goes really well, a decision could be made right then and there (IMO).

Alex in the Mal-Zone at the Elite 11

Though the coaches have left him off the \”Elite 11\” list after the first two days, every reporter, and even counselor, out in Oregon has been praising Alex Malzone for his arm strength, accuracy, demeanor, poise, leadership and teachability. Scout\’s Tom Beaver ($) has said he is \”one of the top 5-6 QBs\” at the event. Other people have talked about how he has that \”old school\” Michigan QB look and style that the fans will love.

#Baylor QB & #Elite11 camp counselor Bryce Petty spoke highly of #Michigan Alex Malzone & #TexasTech Jarrett Stidham in his group. — Gerry Hamilton (@HamiltonESPN) July 6, 2014

To say the least, all fans should be very excited for what this kid will bring to the program. (Highlights)

The Opening

Nike\’s showcase and high school football\’s most elite camp, the Opening, brings together the nation\’s top players to battle head-to-head. Joining the nation\’s top guys are two of Michigan\’s 2015 commitments, Alex Malzone and Darrin Kirkland (Chris Clark had to miss out because of a personal reason).

Commits Looking for More

Malzone and Kirkland showed up with their recruiting hats on and had two guys they are focusing most of their attention on. Those guys, RB Mike Weber and DE Keisean Lucier-South. And from the reports, the recruiting is going very, very well.

Gary Following the Paramus Catholic Trend to Michigan?

After transferring to Jabrill Peppers and Juwann Bushell-Beatty\’s former high school, one of the nation\’s top players and defensive tackles, Rashan Gary, may be looking to join the former PC stars in the Winged helmet. 247 Sports\’ Clint Brewster ($) caught up with the 5* talent talked about his recruitment and his high interest in the Wolverines.

Darrin Kirkland Showing Out

The future MIKE of Mattison\’s defense not only has done well in recruiting but he also had a fantastic day on the field as he was listed among the top 5 linebackers at the event with some even saying he was a top two guy. His size  (6\’2\’\’ 230) is perfect for the MIKE and he showed off his athleticism and instincts, especially on his pass break up and interception in one-on-one play.

Darrin Kirkland with the pass defense against Jackson Harris https://t.co/bFS5cAaLMV

— Barton Simmons (@bartonsimmons) July 8, 2014

In-State battle for Weber?

The top running back in the state is a wanted man. That\’s no secret. At the start, he looked like Michigan\’s to lose but thanks to a late offer and other schools increasing their recruitment, the Wolverines are in a dog fight for Mike Weber. However, with the staff and commits letting him know he is their #1 target, it looks like the winds are changing in his recruitment again.

In a recent Webblog, GBM Wolverine\’s Sam Webb ($) was saying there is rumblings that it is an instate battle between Michigan and MSU. With Malzone and the staff going after him extremely hard, his visit to the BBQ later this month will go a long way.

He also had this to say to GBM Wolverine\’s Josh Newkirk ($) about his BBQ visit with Damien Harris:

“I’ll most definitely be at the [BBQ at the Big House].” Weber said. “Me and Damian decided to go. We are going to go together. So we will be at the barbecue. Michigan is getting back in the picture, most definitely.”

Where will Harris End Up?

I have said many times and even predicted that former Michigan commit, Damien Harris, would return to the Wolverines when things were all said and done. However, the feeling is that the Buckeyes are the clear cut favorites to land the top tailback in the country thanks to the commitments of Hilliard and Jashon Cornell. However, I would not cross Harris off the list just yet. He did show up to the camp sporting the Block M, is visiting Ann Arbor for the BBQ, has the lifelong affinity to Michigan and definitely has his mother\’s blessing to be a Wolverine.

The biggest thing to look forward to during his visit later this month is whether Coach Nussmeier can build up that relationship with the Harris family. If they can give him that family feeling, they could jump back up near the top of his list.

Visit and Decision planned for KLS

Speaking with GBM Wolverine\’s Josh Newkirk ($), 5* DE Keisean Luceir-South showed his love for the Wolverines once again and had some big news in terms of his recruitment. Not only did he say he will be in Ann Arbor for the Penn State game but he also said that he will be deciding on October 27th. IMO, if his visit goes as well as expected, he will be putting on the Maize and Blue cap that day.

The BBQ at the Big House will be huge for the staff and both the 2015 and 2015 classes. So, stay tuned. Big news could be coming in the near future.

Garrett Fishaw
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