Penn State Commit Kyle Carter speaks to MSZ about becoming a Nittany Lion

Last evening William Penn HS TE/WR Kyle Carter became the Nittany Lions first commitment for 2011 recruiting class.  Kyle spoke to Michigan Sports Zone about why he committed to PSU, his thoughts of playing in the Big Ten Conference, what his commit may mean for future camps/combines and how solid he at being a Nittany Lion.

For Kyle Carter being a 6'4" 230 lb tight-end with reliable hands one would've assume the recruiting process would have been stressful to due the amount of activity.  In Kyles case it has been everything but the "hustle and bustle" many thought it would be. After a strong junior season and impressive performances at numerous combines such as the National Underclassmen Combine, Nike Combines and others, it seemed to take a while for him to garner any offers.  Kyle didn't let the process discourage him. Even after receiving two other offers from lower-tiered divisional schools he always maintained his focus and worked hard.   He knew at some point in time his hard work on and off the field would pay dividends.  For this dedicated young man the pay off is enormous--becoming a Penn State Nittany Lion.

"I committed today officially! Last night I was thinking about it (committing) but I decided to sleep on it.  I stuck with it this morning and committed when I spoke with Coach Ron Vanderlinden today." Kyle said about his commitment.

Kyle received offers from Bucknell University and the University of Deleware but when notified by the Penn State coaching staff of an impending offer he knew becoming a Nittany Lion was what he wanted to do.

"Someone put it into perspective for me telling me It doesn't get any better than this and what are you waiting for?" said Kyle. 

His offer came as a bit of a surprise but was nonetheless well- received.

"The thing is my coach called me into the guidance office yesterday and told me that Penn State called.  He told me to call Coach Vanderlinden.  I called him last night and Coach Vanderlinden said to me they are definitely offering me and that I should get it in the mail in a couple of days."

If the offer from Penn State was a surprise to  Kyle his quick commitment to  gave off just about the same well received excitement from the Penn State staff.

"He (Coach Vanderlinden) came today and he had no idea. I let him know at the school and he was real excited. He called the Tight Ends coach and told him about it and also said they were going to set up a call with Joe Paterno."

For Kyle becoming a Nittany Lion is a dream come true,

"Ive always liked Penn State. It was kinda a local school and my mom went there. That was just the team that I loved."  said Kyle.

The TE prospect admits Rutgers was in the mix but didn't get the feeling he was as much of a priority with Rutgers than what he felt from Penn State when they offered. 

"Thing about Rutgers is they were straggling me along and stuff and Penn State they are top of the line school and they saw my tape and potential and offered me and it really meant a lot to me."

Penn State hasn't handed out very many offers this recruiting class due to a limited amount of available scholarships but knew they would have to jump quick to secure a commitment from Kyle.  The quickness of Penn States offer was noticed by Kyle and he wanted to return the favor.

"I wanted to be the first commitment to the school and I know that really meant a lot to them." said Kyle. 

Becoming a Nittany Lion is not only a dream come true for Kyle but was is also an extra special event for his mother who is a Penn State alum.  Kyle was always free to make his own choice but his mothers happiness about her son going to her Alma-mater was evident.

"She was real excited, she gave me a big hug, She was just happy. I could tell some tears were about to come out of her eyes. I could tell she was just real excited."  said Kyle.

For Kyle the aurora of playing in the Big Ten Conference is as good as it can get.

"I just know that it is a great conference. There are a lot of legends that came out of the Big Ten and big schools like Penn State, Ohio State and Michigan. The whole conference has a lot of tradition. Its a great honor to play in the Big Ten. Everyone talks about the SEC and stuff but were gonna put Penn State on the map. National Championship." Kyle said about the privilege of playing in the Big Ten Conference.

For Kyle his commitment to Penn State is as solid as it gets and he will be ending his recruitment so the Nittany Lion faithful dont have to worry about him being a so called "soft commit"

"No chance at all. He (Coach Vanderlinden) asked me that today.  No chance at all. Im Penn State all the way. 100 percent and theres no changing it." Kyle stated about the possibility of a de-commit if another powerhouse school were to offer.

Kyle is confident his size and talents are going to be a great asset to the Penn State offense.

"The thing is about Penn State is they use their tight-ends a lot.  I feel I can be used in the slot, as a regular tight-end or H-back.  I can go in motion and block, I can go out and catch the ball and block on the line.  I just want to go out and do it all for them." "Coach said I am going to have an early chance to play as a freshman, so I'm really excited for that."  said Kyle.

Just because he is committed doesn't mean he is going to stop working hard.  In conjunction with a rigorous training routine he plans to take part upcoming Rutger 7-7 camp and a Penn State camp to be able to practice and hone in on some of his skills.  With his love for Penn State and rigorous training ethics, Kyle is a great pick up for the Nittany Lions. 

26 May 2010 Recruiting Tidbits

1.  TE Kyle Carter became the 1st commit of Penn States 2011 recruiting class when he committed earlier today.  Kyle is very excited to be a Nittany Lion.  MSZ just concluded an interview with Kyle and will have more information up shortly. '

2.  DB Ronald Baines received his first offer from ECU.  "Duke" is heading to Temple this weekend to take part in their camp. MSZ also spoke with him and will have more information up shortly as well.

2011 Prospect Profile: RB Mike Blakely

Mike Blakely-RB-5'9" 192 lbs
Bradenton, FL- Manatee HS
4.5, 40 yard

Offers: Auburn, Clemson, Florida, Iowa, Iowa St, Louisville, Michigan, Mississippi, Nebraska, North Carolina, Rutgers, South Carolina, South Florida, Syracuse, Tennessee, USC, West Virginia

Prep:  (JR) 1,400 yards rushing for 23 TDs and 327 receiving yards



Video:

2011 Prospect Profile: RB Savon Huggins

Savon Huggins-RB-5'11" 183 lbs

Jersey City, NJ- St Peters Prep School

4.5, 40 Yard

Offers:  Alabama, BC, Duke, UConn, Florida, Florida St, Miami, North Carolina, Northwestern, Oregon, Penn State, Pittsburgh, Purdue, Rutgers, South Carolina, South Florida, Standford, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, Michigan and more

Prep:  (JR) 211 rushed for 1,544 yards and 22 TDs also recorded 24 tackles and 1 Int on defense.

Analysis:  Savon Huggins is the real deal.  He is an intense and competitive player who would be a start on either offense or defense at the next level.  Since he is being recruited as a RB that is how is he going to be analyzed.  This 5-start (scout ranking) back has all the talent and potential to be a very special player at the next level.  His cut back abilities are way ahead of his peers.  He hits his holes with great bursts of speed and his constantly looking down field.  Savon is a hard runner that is difficult to bring down for just one defender.  He has a low center of gravity complimented with good balance.  Both of those traits coupled with his speed helps make him an elite back.  

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2011 Prospect Profile: RB Malcolm Crockett

Malcom Crockett-RB-5'10", 185 lbs
Washington DC- Edison Friendship Public Charter School
4.55, 40 yard


Offers:  Michigan, NC State, Georgia Tech, West Virginia



Prep: (JR) Rushed for 1,100 yards and 15 TDs



Analysis:  One thing about Malcolm is speed.  He doesn't have a lot of size to him but he is a speedy and quick type of backer.  Malcolm will need to gain more size at the college level to be able to absorb the hits he will be taking.  What is good about this back is he quickly hits his holes and gets faster once through them.  Would like to see more of his catching abilities but he has the potential to be a special player at the next level.  Not only is he a football start but he is also a track star who runs the 100 meter in 10.9 seconds.



Video

2011 Prospect Profile: QB Kiehl Frazier

Kiehl Frazier- QB-6'3" 212 lbs
Springdale, AR-Shiloh Christian HS
4.5 40 -

Offers:  Arkansas, Auburn, Cinnci, Clemson, Duke, FL, Illi, Kansas St. LSU, Memphis, Miami, Michigan, Western Michigan, Mississippi St, Nebraska, Northwestern, Notre Dame, Oklahoma, Oklahoma St, SMU, TCU, Texas, Tulsa, UCLA, Vanderbilt, West Virginia

Prep: (SO)  Passed for 1, 437 yards and 17 TDs.  Rushed for 990 yards and 15 TDs.  (JR) Passed for 3, 817 yards and 48 TDs.  with 14 Ints.  Rushed for 764 yards and 14 Tds.

Analysis:  When watching Kiehls film right off the bat you notice he is a play maker.  He has great pocket awareness and is able to move the pocket and make plays with his feet.  He is an athletic QB who can cause opposing D-Coordinators headaches with his strong arm and his running ability.  Kiehl doesn't have blazing speed but he has an uncanny elusive ability to gain good amounts of yardage.  Kiehl has what many football experts refer to as "on-the-field speed" When he runs he appears to be gliding.  Kiehl is hard player to bring down.  Defenders are going to have to tackle him properly or he is going to run through or around them.  Kiehl is athletic and talented enough to be able to fit in both a pro and spread type offense. 


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2011 Prospect Profile: QB Christian LeMay

Christian LeMay-QB-6'2", 188LBS
Matthews NC-David W. Butler HS

4.64 40 - 

Offers:  Georgia, Alabama, Arizona St, Auburn, Clemson, Florida, Florida St. Miami, Michigan, N. Carolina, Notre Dame, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas AM, Virginia Tech

Video:   

Prep: (JR) Completed 170/248 passes for 3, 291 yards and 44 TDs with only 4 Ints.  Rushed 81 times for 577 yards and 4 TDs

Analysis:  Christians "bread and butter" as a QB is his arm strength.  His arm strength allows him to make a variety of throws that are essential for keeping the flow of the offense moving.  Deep balls and throwing to a receiver across the sideline are his specialties. He may not have blazing speed but he is elusive and quick enough to be able to get out of the pocket and gain some considerable yardage.  Christian has a pose in the pocket that is ahead of his time.  When the pocket collapses he has a calm sense about him that translates to the rest of the players.  Instead of panicking he allows the play to develop and find his open receivers.  At the college level he is going to need to learn how to move the pocket to avoid being consistently sacked. 

2011 Prospect Profile: QB Jerrard Randall

Jerrard Randall- QB-6'2" 185 lbs

Hollywood, FL-Chaminade HS

4.4 40 -
Offers:  Oregon, Florida Atlantic, Florida International, Florida State, Michigan, Notre Dame, Ohio State, Rutgers, West Virginia

Prep: (SO) 1,500 yards passing, 931 rushing and 18 TDs (JR)  1,700 yard passing, 1,074 rushing and 32 TDs

Analysis:  Jerrard has a strong arm that has the ability to deliver the ball to anywhere on the field.   He has good elusiveness that makes him a legitimate dual-threat.  Jerrard is more of a threat at using his arm when a play breaks down rather than using his elusiveness to gain yardage.  He has the mobility to keep the play alive and the arm strength and vision to hit receivers virtually anywhere on the field.  It will be interesting to see the amount of numbers Jerrard puts up for his senior year. Nevertheless should be real excited to watch the any FL High School football fans

Video:  Jerrard Highlights

2011 Prospect Profile: TE/QB Tanner McEvoy

Tanner McEvoy- TE/QB-6'5" 210 lbs
Oradell, NJ- Bergen Catholic HS
4.70 40 -
Offers: BC, Duke, Miami, Michigan, West Virginia, Virginia, Rutgers, UNC, NC State, Pitt, Vanderbilt, Maryland

Prep: (JR) Offensively: 35 Catches for 550 yards and 3 TDs. Defensively:  49 tackles, 3 INT

Analysis:  Tanner McEvoy is an all around athlete who can play just about anywhere on the football field.  He has experience playing Safety, QB and WR.  His size and exceptional catching ability makes him a legitimate down field threat.  Tanner catches the ball very well and has reliable hands.  He is the type of receiver that will go and make the grab.  He catches the ball in his hands and doesn't let it get close to his body. Tanner is a versatile athlete and his playmaking abilities should remind people of former Texas WR Jordan Shipley. Tanner has the ability to leap over defenders and grab the ball right out of the air. Red Zone jump ball situations are going to be a specialty for this receiver at the next level.  Tanner is a threat not only as a WR but also on the defensive side of the ball. He is a hard-hitting safety.  His height and catching abilities make it dangers to throw to his side of the field.  If being an exceptional WR and a hard-hitting safety wasnt enough, Tanner is a good kick and punt returner.  His combination of speed and a lethal stiff arm causes havoc for opposing special teams.         

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UM Recruit Kyshoen Jarrett garners more offers....

East Stroudsburg CB Kyshoen Jarrett lets Michigan Sports Zone know some new offers have come his way.  The newest schools to join in on the race for his commitment are Vanderbilt, Duke, Stanford and Purdue.

Kyshoen is going to take his time with his recruitment and wait until closer to signing day to make a decision.  At this time he has no clear cut leader or "top three".  He is open to all schools and is looking at each school evenly. 

Michigan Sports Zone will have more about Kyshoen in the near future so stay tuned.  In the meantime check out the links below for more information about this talented prospect.

Offers

NUC Combine

Michigan Sports Zone interview

2011 Prospect Profile CB Charles Jackson

Charles Jackson - Cornerback - 5'10 175 lbs
Klein, TX - Klein Collins HS
40 yard dash: 4.4
Offers: Arkansas, Baylor, California, Houston, Michigan
Video: None available


Prep: (FR) No stats reported (SO) No stats reported (JR) Finished the season with 43 tackles (35 solo) and four interceptions.  Also returned a kickoff for a touchdown against rival Klein Oak HS.

Analysis: No much is currently unknown about this prospect.  Michigan was in contact with Coach Svoboda this week and told him that Michigan's offer letter to Jackson was in the mail.  Coach Svoboda stated that Jackson has become a true leader on his team.  He is always the last one to leave the weight room and continues to work hard to get better according to Svoboda.  Look for more info on this prospect once the fall season gets under way.

2011 Prospect Profile RB DeVondrick Nealy

DeVondrick Nealy – Running Back - 5’10’’, 175lbs
Monticello, FL – Jefferson County High School
40 Yard Dash: 4.4 seconds
Offers: Duke, Georgia Tech, Iowa State, Memphis, Michigan, Minnesota, Ole Miss, North Carolina, South Carolina, Southern Miss, Tennessee, Texas Tech

Prep: (FR) No stats reported (SO) No stats reported (JR) Finished the season with 211 carries for 1904 yards and 25 touchdowns. Nealy also recorded 24 receptions for 250 yards and 4 touchdowns. Also recorded 38 Tackles on defense.  Earned Class 1-B Second Team All State Honors



Analysis: Nealy is a pure runner, with speed. He might not be the fastest runner, but is very quick and has great acceleration. His current height and weight are good for someone who is heading into his senior season, but will need to add some weight to compete with athletes at the next level. Besides his speed, vision has to be one of his better attributes. With his high school running a spread offense, it allows Nealy to use his vision to find the seams in the offensive line and burst for a big run. Despite DeVondrick being listed as a running back; he does have the ability to play receiver in a spread offense that utilizes its slot receiver. Nealy doesn’t name a leader and doesn’t have a definite date when he will announce his decision, but likely will decide in the fall. He wants to play early and wants a school that will help develop him into a better player to have the possibility at playing at the next level.


Continue to check back here for more on DeVondrick Nealy and the rest of the Wolverine prospects.

2011 Prospect Profile Slot/ATH Darius Patton

Darius Patton - Slot/ATH - 5'9" 170 lbs
Poland, OH - Poland Seminary HS
4.43 - 40 yd dash
Offers: Cincinnati, Michigan, Michigan State, Toledo, West Virginia
Video: Jr. Year Highlights

Prep: (FR) No stats reported  (SO) No stats reported  (JR) 80 receptions for 980 yards and recorded four interceptions on defense.  Tackles and Touchdowns for the season were not reported by the coach for Darius.

Analysis:  Darius has a great burst of speed off the line, has the ability to break away from the defensive back especially when the DB tries to check him down in the first 5 yards.  His size may be a problem at the Division I level although he does have a decent vertical leap.  Needs to get bigger and stronger and due to his size he may be a better fit on the defensive side of the ball.  Michigan along with  four other schools have seen something they like in this kid and in talking to a few of his teammates his willingness to improve is second to none.  Darius doesn't have a top school yet but he stated Michigan does rate up at the top.  He is unsure wether to make his decision this summer or wait until signing day.  If he has a breakout season this year look for him to garner more offers and wait until signing day to make his decision.  According to sources he may be holding out for an offer from the Buckeyes.  Check back with MSZ for updates on Darius and his recruitment.

2011 Prospect Profile RB/CB Valdez Showers

Valdez Showers - RB/CB - 5'11" 181 lbs
Madison Heights, MI - Madison HS
4.57 - 40 yd dash
Offers: Bowling Green, Central Michigan, Cincinnatti, Howard, Michigan, Michigan State, Northwestern, Toledo, Western Michigan, Wisconsin

Prep: (FR) No stats reported  (SO) No stats reported  (JR) Rushed for 1,542 yds and 20 TD's, 6 receptions for 144 yds, 3 KR for 66 yds, also made 42 tackles and had 12 pass break-ups, 1 Fumble Recovery, and 1 Sack












Analysis:  He has good speed and knows how to read the blocks on offense.  Has an explosive burst through the hole and can make defenders miss.  Valdez is a good defender, has good hip movement and his backpedal is above average.  His size may be a downfall at the CB position so if teams want him as a defender instead of a RB look for them to possibly move him to the Safety position.  He holds a Michigan offer and reportedly Michigan is high on his list.  Don't expect a decision from him before national signing day as he looks to up his value this fall and garner more offers.  Keep checking back for updates on this Michigan Recruit.

2011 Prospect Profile DT Darian Cooper

Darian Cooper - DL/DT - 6'2" 290 lbs
Hyattesville, MD - Dematha Catholic HS
No 40 time recorded - 375lb Bench Max
Offers: Maryland, Penn State, UCLA, Illinois, ECU, Michigan, Michigan State, Clemson, Marshall





Prep: (FR) No stats reported (SO) No stats reported (JR) 12 sacks







Analysis: Darian is a big guy with lots of natural talent and great strength.  He burst onto the recruiting scene his junior year with 12 sacks including 4 in one game.  Darian was named ESPN Honorable Mention All School Big State his junior year and has been to numerous camps and combines.  He was named Top D-Line Performer at the Rivals Premiere Showcase and Top Overall Performer at the Maryland Elite Combine.  Darian has taken unofficial visits to USC, Maryland, Penn State, ECU, UCLA, and PITT.  He won't name his top schools yet because you should expect to see more schools jump on this talented recruit as he leads the D-Line at Dematha this fall.  Keep checking in with Michigan Sports Zone for more updates on Darian and his recruiting process.

National Underclassmen Combine Part 2: Day 2 notes and video

Day 2 of the National Underclassmen Combine at Matawaan Regional High School (UM recruit Andre Hodges school) held some of the 2011 kids from around the Tri-State area.  Even through the chill and the rain the player turnout was well. 

~~The most high profile recruit that was in attendanec was East Stroudburg PA CB Kyshoen Jarrett.  Kyshoen holds over a dozen Div 1 offers.  MSZ interview with Kyshoen

What set him apart from the rest of the pack was his speed (great recovery speed) mechanics and footwork.  At the NUC Kyshoen ran a 4.6, 40 (on slippery turf), 27" vertical, and did 17 reps of 185 lbs on the bench.  He was named "Combine King" at the event

~~The only real WR talent that could go against Kyshoen was Northeast HS, WR Rashaun Sligh.  MSZ profile    Rashaun is a big and physical reciever with reliable hands.  He has been recieving a lot of letters and interest from Michigan State, Michigan, Notre Dame and other D-1 schools.  Rashaun and Kyshoen battled all-day.  There was a noticeable talent gap when the two werent facing each other. That gap closed when they went against one another numerous times. 



Interview with Northeast HS WR Rashaun Sligh


Some extra notes from the NUC:
~O-Line MVP went to Andrew Lockhart from  St. Augustine Prep
~D-Line MVP was shared between two players
     1.  Tim Goodwin from Holy Spirit High
     2.  Arrod Jennings from NewMilford HS
~WR MVP was Ryan Taylor from St. Marks HS, Deleware


For more information on National Underclassmen Combine or to register please visit their website at http://nationalunderclassmen.com/

Gateway HS CB Dondi Kirby visiting Michigan for BBQ at the Big House **UPDATE**

Update: Dondi just informed MSZ he received two more offers this past weekend. One was from Wisconsin and the other from Purude. This makes his total offer list to 15! 

Recently Michigan Sports Zone was able to talk with Gateway HS CB Dondi Kirby.  Michigan recruit profile    Dondi updated MSZ on whats new with the talented CB prospect since the last time we spoke with him, his offers, thoughts on Michigan and more....

(To watch the last interview with Dondi back in Feb click the following: Video interview)

Since the last time we spoke with Dondi he has been working hard to better his game and prepare for his senior season.  One attribute about Dondi is humbleness.  A hard worker and fierce competitor but is a down-to-earth and humble person. 

Dondi's hard work on and off the field has paid off with an impressive offer list and constant visits from coaches from all over the country. 

"Ive been getting offers just about every couple of weeks.  This past week several coaches came out to see how I was doing."  said Dondi.

The most recent schools to drop in and check on the talented CB were Iowa, Maryland and Pitt.  Even with the ever constant recruiting competition between schools Michigan has also dropped in recently to visit Dondi.  Michigan has shown Dondi a lot of interest and it is definatley noticable. 

"They send me letters just about every week or so.  The letters tell me about the school and whats coming up with camps."  said Dondi.

With the constant communication with the staff and letters sent to Dondi Michigan has been able to place themselves in a good spot for his recruitment.

"I plan on going to the BBQ at the Big House. Coach told me about it.  It seems like a great thing to get close to the coaches and close to the facilities around there."

Dondi is eager to come out to Ann Arbor to talk to the coaches and see what Michigan has to offer. The only other time he was in Ann Arbor was for a 7-7 that his team won last year. Even though the Al Glick Fieldhouse was under construction at the time he was still able to get a feel for Ann Arbor.

"It was great, actually there were a lot of parties down there that I saw."  said Dondi.

Even though Dondi has only visiting Michigan once he has a general understanding of what the Wolverines are all about.

"Before the visit, its one of the powerhouses in the NCAA. Its a great school." Dondi said about his pre-existing knowledge of the Michigan football program.

Dondi recently took a break from his daily workout schedule to take a trip to visit Ohio State about 3 weeks ago.

Dondi talked about his visit to OSU saying, "It was great! It was a big big facility. The campus is like a tiny little Pittsburgh. There seemed like a lot to do."   Dondi enjoyed the fact the campus and the city of Columbus were virtually intertwined. 

"Its like right there." "Thats what i mean, it was great. Seemed like there is a lot to do when you dont have school."

Other schools Dondi has visited was Pitt, West Virginia and Syracuse for their respective Junior Days.  The visits to all three schools was a great experience for Dondi. 

"All the schools i went to were great. Seemed like they all showed a lot of interest. Talked to all the head coaches and felt very comfortable with all of them."

Dondi doesn't believe distance will be a huge important factor in deciding which school he will commit to.  He credits his grandmother as being the most important person in his life and would like for her to see him play.  With that in mind he is still looking at all schools equally because he says if a theres a school he really likes he can always come back and see her so distance isn't a big factor.

One thing that is for sure is Dondi is set on waiting until signing day to announce his decision.  However, if signing day were to be in the next month there are some schools that stand out.

"Well definitely Michigan, Michigan, Maryland, Ohio State, Illinois and Iowa."

Dondi further narrowed his list down to three schools which are Michigan, Maryland and Ohio State and not in any particular order. 

With an impressive offer list that totals 13 schools: Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, NC State, Syracuse, West Virginia, Pitt, Miami, Iowa,Ohio St,UNC, Indiana and Illinois  Dondi explained some of the factors that will go into what school he will ultimately decide to go to

"Playing time is a big deal with me. If a school has returning starters, umm,i just want to play at least in my first or second year.  I'm also looking for a good education and tradition."  said Dondi.

Even though the depth chart will factor into his decision.  Dondi is prepared to come in and compete against the best.   His willingness to compete for playing time against the best is a plus for the Maize and Blue, who already have two CB verbal commitments for the 2011 class.  

"Not to be cocky but I was taught to feel like im one of the better ones and when it comes time to prove that you prove it with your abilities."  said Dondi.

Dondi compares his game to the Jets CB Darrelle Revis in the sense that they are both the "complete package" as he stated. 

This year he has high expectations for himself and is looking to help lead his team to a championship, make the All-State list and hopefully become a high school level All-American. One interesting note about Dondi

"I'm really blessed I'm a natural at every sport that I'm new to or apart of." Dondi told MSZ when talking about his switch from DE to CB.

When asked about his strengths and weaknesses he will bring to the next level Dondi listed his strengths as his size (6'3) jumping ablilty (35" vertical) and his jamming abilities as his biggest strengths.  As for weakness Dondi only really had one concern and its more of a schematic concern than playmaking abilities.

"playing man coverage throughout all game." Dondi said about his concern for the next level.  He currently plays a lot of cover 2 and will only "man-up" in certain situations.

Next up for Dondi is visits to Maryland and Pitt for their combine events on June 18 and June 23.  He is eager to get out there and prove what he can do.

"I'm just looking to prove I'm one of the top corners/defensive back in the country." said Dondi.

With his speed, size, frame and determination Dondi has all the attributes and measurables to be a big contributor at the next level. Michigan Sports Zone will have more about this Michigan prospect in the coming months!



photo at top credited to Scout.com

UM recruit CB Kyshoen Jarrett talks with MSZ

At the National Underclassmen Combine, Michigan Sports Zone caught up with East Stroudburg PA, CB Kyshoen Jarrett.  Kyshoen talks about his battle with Northeast HS WR Rashaun Sligh, his thoughts on Michigan, his recruitment and more...



Keep checking back with Michigan Sports Zone as we will have more about Kyshoen in the future.  Fore more information about the National Underclassmen Combine please click on the link on the right of the page.

2011 Prospect Profile: LB Antoine Pozniak

Antione Pozniak-LB-6'3" 215
Oakridge Military Academy, Oak Ridge NC
4.5, 40 yard-dash
Offers: Illinois

Interests: LSU, Miami, Tennesee, South Carolina, Michigan, Rutgers, NC State, Cal, Alabama, Florida

Video: 

Prep: (FR) No stats reported (SO) 90 tackles, 4 sacks. (JR) 154 tackles, 2 INT, 2 sacks and 4 forced fumbles


Intro: Don’t be fooled into thinking Antoine Pozniak is not a legitimate Division 1 prospect just because he is attending a prep school. Antoine stepped onto the recruiting scene a little late last year and now has the benefit of an extra year to find a school that is a perfect fit. Antoine carries a 2.7 GPA and would like to be able to work with children after he graduates from college. Working with children will allow Antoine to accomplish his future goal of being a successful person and making a difference. Growing up he watched Brian Cushing so closely he now compares his own playmaking abilities to that of Cushing’s. Antoine is working hard preparing for the upcoming season by getting better and attending such camps as Football University (PA), Top Gun, Under Armour combine and the National Underclassmen Combine. Antoine can’t wait for the upcoming season. He is most looking forward to “playing in a 3-4 (defense) and dominating trying to win it all!” He may be focused on the next-level but he will never forget the great times during his high school football career, “playing an entire second half cramped on and when we needed the onside recovery, recovering it. Also, just making big time plays to win games. It's nice to take over games and being accounted for every play.” Antoine has taken unofficial visits to South Carolina, Southern Cal and LSU. Antoine would like to enroll early and says distance is not a factor in his decision of which school to attend. “Leadership, tremendous attitude, and raise the level of play of those around me” are attributes Antoine feels he can bring to the collegiate level.


Analysis: Antoine plays with a high-motor. In just his JR year alone he recorded 154 tackles. A great attribute to Antoine’s play is his ability to cover the field sideline-to-sideline. He has the speed and athleticism to be able to drop back into coverage and the strength and size to be an effective run-stopper. If not properly blocked he has the ability to beat opposing lineman with a quick first and the athleticism to maneuver around and locate the ball carrier. Antoine plays with high drive. He is the type of linebacker that takes charge and plays hard on every play. He has the experience playing down on the defensive line, as well as, standing up at the linebacker spot. Antoine is a determined player who understands what aspects of his game he needs to improve on, “foot work, getting off of blocks by punching and using hands because in college you will never make a lay taking on blocks with your shoulders, and just being more physical at the point of attack.”

2011 Prospect Profile: LB Tom Macauley

Tom Macauley-LB-5’11" 205

Galloway, NJ – Absegami High School

Interest: Stoney-Brooks University, Lehigh University and Bryant University

Prep: (FR) No stats reported. (SO) 39 tackles, 3 interceptionS. 3 forced fumbles, 1 fumble recovery and 2.5sacks. (JR)  49 tackles, 2 interceptions, 3 sacks, 2 forced fumbles  

Video:

Intro: Tom may be just slightly undersized for a linebacker at the next level but he doesn’t play undersized. He has a love for working hard and for the game of football that is unmatched by most. Tom’s dream school is The Ohio State University. While distance is not a factor in his school decision what is a factor is the campus atmosphere. Tom hopes to be a carpenter and start his one business after his football days are over. He credits his mother as being the most influential woman in his life. Accodring to him he credits her because, “cause shes a single parent and she was always there when I need her.” Growing up he watched Vernon Gholston and idolized Brian Dawkins. Tom is working hard to get ready for the upcoming football season. This upcoming season he is most looking forward to “winning state championship and committing to a good college.” When asked what he brings to a college football program he replied with, “leadership and a good attitude.”

Analysis: Tom is the type of linebacker that just “itches” to make a play. A few things he needs to work on is increasing speed, tackling and making quicker decisions when the play is developing. Once he commits to attacking the run he goes full-force. He never quits on a play and gives it his all until the whistle is blown. Tom is the type of player that is always around the ball at the end of a play. What he may lack in speed he does make up for in lateral movement. I expect him to have a big senior season.