Canes rising on DBs list

These days, if Miami has offered a prospect, chances are he's got seemingly limitless potential and incredible athletic ability. That's the case with safety and wide receiver Devon Lyons, and the Canes are moving up his list.

"Ohio State, Michigan State, Notre Dame, Penn State, Miami and Illinois are my favorites," said Lyons. "All of those schools have offered me a scholarship. I've visited all of those schools except Ohio State this summer, and I would like to take at least four official visits before all is said and done. I probably won't decide until after the season."

Two coaches at their respective schools have done a lot to better their standing with Lyons, a 6-foot-2, 205-pounder who will step into Ryan Mundy's (Michigan signee) role as the go-to guy for Pittsburgh (Pa.) Woodland Hills.

"I really like coach Willingham at Notre Dame and coach Smith at Michigan State. They each have a vision of what it's going to take to build national title contenders year in and year out."

What will be the primary things Lyons looks at in a school?

"I want to go somewhere I can play early, so playing time will be a factor. I would like to play somewhere with a strong football tradition, and a school that has a nice environment."

As a junior, Lyons did most of his work on defense, making five interceptions and 54 tackles.