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Three B1G Things: Jourdan Lewis isn’t happy with Michigan’s recruiting, Penn State’s busy week & Lovie still utilizes the transfer portal
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Three B1G Things is a daily weekday update on some of the most unique and interesting stories from across the B1G. It ranges from recruiting to coach press conferences, funny anecdotes to serious situations. We provide our commentary, analysis and opinions on a few topics every day.
“Recruit the state of Michigan better”
That was the statement former Michigan and NFL defensive back Jourdan Lewis fired off on Twitter late last week. Lewis, who played for Jim Harbaugh for two seasons (2015-16) appeared to be frustrated after four-star Detroit safety Jaylen Reed committed to Penn State over UM.
Lewis, also a native of Detroit, wants to see more local talent playing in Ann Arbor.
Recruit the State of Michigan better.
— Jourdan Lewis (@JourdanJD) April 10, 2020
It’s been a little slow for Michigan on the recruiting front this year, part of that can be attributed to the limitations that are now in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Over the last few weeks, however, business has been picking up for Harbaugh and company. Since March 25, Michigan has received commitments from six players and now owns the nation’s No. 9 class in 2021, and third-best currently in the B1G.
For a program that is attempting to get on the same level as Ohio State, landing every big-time commit is important, especially the local talent. That appears to be Lewis’s gripe, and he wasn’t afraid to vent his frustration.
Penn State gets four commits in two days
Last Thursday and Friday were really good days for Penn State on the recruiting front. Not only did the Nittany Lions get the pledge from the aforementioned Reed late last week, James Franklin was able to haul in commitments from three additional talents on Friday.
Twin brothers Kalen (4-star DB) and Kobe (3-star ILB) King both gave their pledge to Penn State before the weekend, bumping PSU’s total up to six commitments in the 2021 class. Not long after, four-star athlete Zakee Wheatley also joined the party, becoming the seventh member of the Lion’s class.
Much like Michigan, Penn State had been behind in the recruiting game, having just three pledges through the first four months of the year. And while there’s still plenty of time left until the Early Signing Period with several talented prospects yet to commit, Franklin and his staff are trying to stay within striking distance of Ohio State. Falling so far behind early wasn’t a great sign.
Penn State might be able to do a little more work in the coming weeks and months, as coaches are forced to get a little more creative with the current recruiting restrictions in place. We might find out if Franklin and his staff are really good salesmen soon.
Lovie Smith still loves the transfer portal
Why not, right? Illinois hasn’t been piecing together great recruiting classes under Smith, but the head coach has been utilizing the transfer portal as much as anyone. And last week, the Illini added two more transfer players who can immediately play in the 2020 season.
Former New Mexico State wide receiver Desmond Dan and Wofford offensive lineman Blake Jeresaty both committed to Illinois last week, becoming the fourth transfer players to join the roster. Dan could have two years of eligibility remaining (pending a medical redshirt approval) and Jersaty, a former FCS All-American will have one season left.
Smith is essentially approaching the transfer portal like NFL free agency — if you can’t draft what you need, go ahead and fill the vacancies with players looking for new homes. It’s worked really well for the Illini over the last two years.
And, hey, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
Dustin grew up in the heart of Big Ten country and has been in sports media since 2010. He has been covering Big Ten football since 2014. You can follow him on Twitter: @SchutteCFB