Lyons favors the Spartans

Despite a tough loss to rival Michigan last weekend, recruits are taking notice of Michigan State's incredible turnaround. One of Pennsylvania's best athletes thinks the Spartans are heading for national prominence, which is why they're now his favorite.

Safety / wide receiver Devon Lyons has offers from prestigious programs such as Miami, Ohio State, Notre Dame and Penn State, but those schools are all in the backseat.

"I like Michigan State the best right now," said Lyons. "Coach Smith and that staff are really getting things done. Most people were saying they could finish last in the Big Ten this year but they're one of the three or four best. They're hoping to get a big recruiting class to build on, and I think if they get it they'll be headed to the top of the conference."

The 6-foot-2, 210-pound athlete from Pittsburgh (Pa.) Woodland Hills bench presses 315 pounds and runs the 40-yard dash in 4.45 seconds. Lyons was on an official visit to Michigan State for the game against the rival Wolverines and was impressed, to say the least.

"Ohio State has really impressed me too," he said. "Their offense isn't as exciting as some, but they win a lot and have some great players. Notre Dame has a great tradition and has great academics, so I like them too. Miami is still one of the top programs in the country and I think Penn State is going to have a turnaround next year kind of like Michigan State did this year."

Lyons led Woodland Hills to a 7-4 record this year, catching 22 passes for an amazing 780 yards and 14 touchdowns. He also recorded 52 tackles and intercepted three passes.