Not everyone wants to check in 15 times per day for the latest updates on each and every recruit Mark Dantonio has offer a scholarship. But even the guy who says “we shouldn’t be stalking these kids” is more than curious.
This isn’t meant to be hard-hitting journalism, people.
In two minutes or less, here is what you need to know:
Simple math: 85 scholarships available…85 players on scholarship – 19 seniors + 12 2010 commitments = 7 spots remaining…Could potentially change to 8 or 9 with attrition, usually an inevitable happening.
We Need Another Or We’re Screwed
Cornerback – With Ross Weaver, Jeremy Ware, and Ashton Henderson graduating, Michigan State needs to reload at this spot. Cass Tech student-athlete Dior Mathis has the closing speed to be a great compliment to Mylan Hicks’ ball skills. Reminds me of a Johnny Adams to Hicks’ Chris L. Rucker. From his own mouth, Mathis has stated his top two schools are Oregon and Michigan State. He’s in Eugene as I type. With a decision potentially looming within the next few weeks, his post-visit comments will likely be telling of his destination.
The Spartans are playing second fiddle to Ohio State for Christian Bryant. I’ll stop here. Don’t get your hopes up. Same with LaTwan Anderson. If the staff bats anything less than .333 here, Terrence Talbott could receive an offer, who is looking to play with his brother, DT Terry Talbott (does have a MSU offer).
Offensive Line – Any less than three offensive linemen per class, and you’re not putting yourself in a position to suceed. Skyler Schofner favors the Spartans barring an Ohio State offer. He’ll be taking some official visits before commiting, let’s hope Jim Tressel doesn’t wise up in the meantime! A fourth linemen wouldn’t hurt either. Eric Franklin is still a possibility at right tackle if things don’t work out with Schofner.
Defensive Tackle - One of the few positions Mark Dantonio hasn’t recruited wonderfully is nose tackle. Bruce Gaston favors Illinois, Notre Dame, and Michigan State. Carl Davis is believed to be a backup plan, but lists MSU along with Iowa, Wisconsin, and Kansas. Ricky Heimuli lists the Spartans in his final 10, but don’t get your hopes up. Gaston has to be a big priority for the staff. You already read about Talbott.
Another One Wouldn’t Hurt
Defensive End – CJ Olaniyan or bust here. Word on the street is Michigan State is the favorite, some even saying CJO tried to commit previously before being told to wait it out and be sure. Likely the top player still left on the board.
Wide Receiver – The Tony Jones news was dissapointing, but if you’re looking for star power, Michigan State may be better off. Adding Dyjuan Lewis looks very possible, and the staff is high on Torian Richardson.
Safety – In terms of bodies alone, this is one of the deepest spots on the team. Little of that depth is proven, however, which is why its crucial to bring in more talent with Dan Fortener and Kendell Davis-Clark graduating. Kurtis Drummond is as much of a lock as you will find, and I’d expect him to be #13.
Outside Linebacker – Even with the numbers they brought in last year, I’m surprised the staff isn’t looking to take even one at this spot as of today.
Why not?
Runningback – Eric Howard could be a Javon Ringer-esque steal out of Ohio. Like Javon (supposedly), he has some grade problems. If he qualifies and Ohio State does not offer, he’ll likely end up in EL.
Athlete – Mark Staten would love to add just one more tight end to the roster, but he’ll have to fight for it. Sherard Cadogan lists a top five of Michigan State, South Carolina, Wisconsin, Pittsburgh, and Penn State. James Potts is still in play and MSU is in the final five for his services. Not sure where he could fit in, but Jewone Snow, Percy’s nephew, might be too good to pass up.
