Michigan looks good to Smith
LOS ANGELES - Michigan is not the early favorite for John Smith, he would not use those words, but the Wolverines definitely appeal to the four-star standout who can play wide receiver or defensive back.
Smith, a 6-foot-1, 185-pound prospect, said Sunday at the 4th Quarter Sports Elite 7on7 Tournament that the Wolverines have been the most active team in his recruitment and he's taking notice.
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Michigan is up there but Smith, who goes by JuJu, went short of calling the Wolverines or any other team his top school at this point.
"I love Michigan," Smith said.
"I want to major in the medical field and they have a good medical program for me and also I was talking to the coach and they said I could go both ways. I like that and I like the kids who have already committed in my class.
"The most important thing that caught my eye was that they play with a lot of defensive backs on the field throughout the whole game. I'd be able to get on the field."
Smith, who helped lead Long Beach (Calif.) Poly to the state championship game this past season, said the Wolverines have been the most active team in his recruitment.
So far, Arizona, Fresno State, Michigan, San Jose State, UCLA, USC, Washington and Washington State have offered. It's almost assured others will get involved as this off-season continues.
"UCLA opened up the package and now they're all coming in one-by-one," Smith said. "I was really happy UCLA offered me and did that. It's been busy since then.
"It's too hard and it's too early for me to commit or anything. I don't have favorites but I'm really looking at the schools that want me more. The schools that come harder are the schools like Michigan, UCLA, Washington and Washington State are coming the hardest and I appreciate that.
"Michigan is coming the hardest right now. They're dying to get me. That matters to me. It's the Big Ten and it's one of the top schools."
Arizona State and Ohio State are also showing more interest in Smith, who said the Buckeyes definitely appeal to him especially after their undefeated season. Coach Urban Meyer is also an important selling point.