Michigan 2013 ATH emerging

Holland (Mich.) athlete Corey Willis was not a big name on the recruiting scene a month ago, but after a tremendous start to his junior season, the 5-10, 170-pound Willis is now drawing the attention of major college programs.

Willis lines up under center for Holland, and leads the Dutch's offense with his arm and his legs. In his team's most recent game, a 56-50 double overtime loss, Willis accounted for 196 rushing yards and four touchdowns, while throwing for two more scores. That playmaking ability has the Dutch sitting on a 4-1 record and Willis' name becoming a hot one on the recruiting trail.

"I felt I could do better than I did last year," Willis said. "I can't say I expected this type of season, but it feels good."

On the season, Willis has accounted for 950 rushing yards and 11 rushing touchdowns. In college, though, he will likely be called upon to catch the ball, or defend the pass.

"I have talked to a lot of teams and a lot of coaches about receiver or DB," Willis said.

Among the schools Willis has been hearing most from are Nebraska, Michigan State, Eastern Michigan, Western Michigan, Central Michigan, Toledo and Ball State. He attended Northern Illinois' game last week with teammate Nathan Ricketts, and has another game day visit planned for next month.

"I think we are going to go to the MSU-UM game [Oct. 15]," Willis said.

With his recruitment now starting to take off, Willis is hoping to continue attracting attention from an array of college programs.

"I'd like to hear from Illinois. They have just been a team I've liked growing up," Willis said. "Also Ohio State."