The Wolverine: Covering University of Michigan Football and Sports
Issue link: https://comanpub.uberflip.com/i/402034
FOOTBALL RECRUITING just 250 pounds at that time. Indianapolis Lawrence Central linebacker Darrin Kirkland Jr. picked Michigan in large part because be likes the coaching staff, so if there are any questions about their job security, there will also be questions about the solidity of his pledge. He has already visited Notre Dame unofficially this fall, taking in the Stanford game Oct. 4. "My options are going to continue to be open, but I do love Michigan and am still committed to Michigan," he said. "It is a great place to be, a great atmosphere and a lot of great opportunities for myself as well as for my family. But, I still remain … I would say a good word is 'neutral,' for right now." Kirkland, the No. 7 inside line‑ backer and No. 167 overall prospect nationally according to Rivals.com, is an important part of Michigan's foot‑ ball future. However, fellow India‑ napolis linebacker Asmar Bilal picked Notre Dame over Michigan Oct. 17, and is doing what he can to lure his friend and rival to South Bend with him. Huber Heights (Ohio) Wayne safety Tyree Kinnel is a longtime Michigan fan, but has picked up offers from several big‑time pro‑ grams, including Alabama and Notre Dame, since committing to Michigan prior to his junior season. The 5‑11, Potential Finishes Michigan is expected to sign a class of 15‑18 prospects, leaving about five to eight openings in the group, given the 10 current pledges. STRONG FINISH Tampa (Fla.) Wharton wide receiver Auden Tate is currently committed to Florida State, but has long considered an official visit to Michigan despite his current allegiance. The 6‑4, 199‑pounder is ranked as the No. 18 wide receiver and No. 164 overall player nationally by Rivals.com. While his initial plan was to take his official for Michigan's night game against Penn State Oct. 11, he passed on the trip at that time, and the Wolverines' only shot to steal him away likely revolves around a strong finish to the season and a visit at the end of the fall. Orange (Calif.) Lutheran defensive end Keisean Lucier‑South is one of the highest‑ranked player left on Michigan's board. The 6‑6, 220‑pounder is listed by Rivals.com as a five‑star recruit, the No. 6 player in California, No. 3 outside linebacker nationally and the No. 30 overall prospect in the class of 2015. He took his official visit for U‑M's night game victory over Penn State, and enjoyed his time in Ann Arbor. A childhood affinity for the Maize and Blue could give them a shot no matter how the season turns out. UCLA is the strongest other contender (and potentially his top school right now). Salt Lake City Brighton outside linebacker Osa Masina is ranked as the No. 6 outside linebacker and No. 51 overall player nationally by Rivals.com. The 6‑3,