The Wolverine: Covering University of Michigan Football and Sports
Issue link: https://comanpub.uberflip.com/i/111015
Dawson, who decommitted and recommitted later in the year) ��� had given their word to Michigan. When the 2012 season kicked off, Michigan already had 21 commitments ��� plus Dawson, who would ultimately sign with the Wolverines. The only previous time Michigan had ever received 20 verbal pledges before the start of the new year ��� much less the start of the season ��� was Rich Rodriguez���s final full class, in 2010. The Wolverines have now done it two years in a row. The early commitments also made for a less stressful Signing Day for Michigan���s coaching staff, though it may have been less exciting for Michigan fans. The final recruit of the class, Richmond (Va.) Hermitage five-star running back Derrick Green, committed to MichiOffensive lineman Ben Braden became U-M's gan Jan. 26, more than a week befirst commit in the class of 2012 on March 24, fore National Signing Day. 2011, and the class of 2013 also followed an Never before had Michigan re- early timetable. ceived its final verbal commitment photo courtesy rivals.com with more than a week to go in the process. Instead of making frantic last-minute calls the first Wednesday in February, the U-M coaches were able to relax and watch the faxed letters of intent roll in, while taking part in a live-streamed web show on MGoBlue.com. By the time the ink was dry on the final fax ��� from Trotwood (Ohio) Madison cornerback Reon Dawson at 11:42 a.m. ���the coaching staff was on to the 2014 class instead of waiting for a Signing Day (or post-Signing Day, like Martavious Odoms in 2008) commitment. Despite a smaller class on tap in a year���s time, the Michigan staff is already off to a good start. Richmond (Va.) Collegiate School quarterback Wilton Speight pledged on Signing Day, joining St. Clairsville (Ohio) linebacker Michael Ferns. Salt Lake City Highland defensive tackle Bryan Mone followed suit just a week later. If February visit weekends pay dividends, it could be another low-stress Signing Day in a year���s time. ��� Tim Sullivan