WVU commit talks upcoming visits, allure of USC
Mike Harley remains committed to West Virginia. The four-star wide receiver is at peace with his status and says he’s content with his recruitment being in the rearview. Then, more often than not, the recruiting in 2016 includes a final look around. It’s simply the nature of an evolving beast.
And so, content as Harley may be with his standing as a member of the Mountaineers’ 2017 class, he’s plotting travel. There will likely be an unofficial visit to Miami and official visits will follow.
“I know I have West Virginia, Louisville and Michigan on deck,” Harley said. “I’m going to take those three officials and two more. I’m gonna sneak out to USC and then go somewhere else. I’m not sure.”
West Virginia is aware of Harley’s desire to tour other campuses and field other offers. Everything, it seems, has been done above the table. So while his words on the subject may sound contradictory, Harley’s not in the business of keeping secrets from the Mountaineer staff.
“West Virginia knows I’m [looking around], but they also know I’m 100-percent faithful to them,” Harley said. “They know I’m just looking and entertaining other coaches.”
The biggest threat to steal Harley’s commitment is thought to be USC, which has not offered the Florida-based prospect a scholarship as of now. According to Harley, however, that’s subject to change abruptly.
“[USC assistant] Coach Tee Martin, he’s a sneaky guy in recruiting,” Harley said. “He’s going to wait until the end of the season and come attack me, you know?”
Harley, who attends Ft. Lauderdale (Fla.) St. Thomas Aquinas High School, says he will consider the Trojans even if the staff waits until the end of the season to offer him a scholarship.
IN HIS WORDS: “I really fit in at West Virginia,” Harley said. “That’s family. With [USC], though, they produce great quarterbacks and that’s great for me. That’s good for a wide receiver.”
RIVALS REACTION: Harley’s commitment to West Virginia isn’t some placeholder pledge. He likes the Mountaineers and is confident of the fit. He has, however, been hoping for an offer from USC for some time. Harley has not visited Los Angeles but will do so this fall should an offer arrive. The Trojans, along with Miami and, to a lesser extent Michigan, are the threats to swipe Harley away from WVU.