The Wolverine: Covering University of Michigan Football and Sports
Issue link: https://comanpub.uberflip.com/i/629217
FOOTBALL RECRUITING BY TIM SULLIVAN M ichigan's 2016 recruiting class is an excellent one, with its 22 commitments good enough to slot in at No. 7 overall in Rivals.com's team rankings as of Jan. 20. Only Ohio State, LSU, Ole Miss, Notre Dame, Florida and Florida State were ahead of the Maize and Blue with just two weeks remaining before National Signing Day Feb. 3. Fortunately for Jim Harbaugh and his assistant coaches, U‑M is in strong position with a number of highly rated prospects. While a No. 1 team ranking may be just out of reach, a national top‑five finish in the first full recruiting cycle under a new staff would be a bright sign for the future. Here are some of the top players that the Wolverines hope to add when National Letters of Intent come in, resulting in one of the nation's best signing classes. DT RASHAN GARY 6-5, 290 • Paramus (N.J.) Catholic No. 1 player in New Jersey, and No. 1 defensive tackle and No. 1 overall prospect nationally Gary is the nation's top player (a ranking he confirmed and even strengthened at the Under Armour Game) and happens to play a major position of need for Michigan. Michigan has long been a favorite for Gary, and the Wolverines' connec‑ tions should help. Getting through January is the key, since U‑M is seen as the favorite — but programs like USC and Clemson have chances to impress him on official visits. A Jan. 22 unofficial visit to Ann Arbor — where he was expected to spend time with friend and early enrollee Kareem Walker — could keep the Maize and Blue on top. CB DAVID LONG 6-0, 170 • Los Angeles Loyola No. 18 recruit in California, and No. 8 cornerback and No. 81 overall prospect in the country Michigan wants outstanding de‑ FOOTBALL RECRUITING Wolverines Hope To Close 2016 Class With A Bang Michigan is considered one of the favorites for New Jersey defensive tackle and Rivals. com No. 1 overall prospect Rashan Gary. PHOTO COURTESY RIVALS.COM