DONOVAN EDWARDS

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — If you’re expecting Michigan to throw the ball more this fall, well, you might be in luck. “We have so many players, so many guys with skill,” quarterback Cade McNamara, who finished 3 for 7 for 16 yards on Saturday, said. “I think just the more that we have, I’m expecting us to be more dynamic.”Players cautioned the public from reading too much into the spring game from an Xs and Os standpoint, and rightfully so. “Once we start playing other teams, I’m going to have a lot of dudes to throw to,” McNamara said. I think we’re an offense that can really do everything.”Read more Michigan football spring coverage from MLive:QB J.J. McCarthy (still) limited in Michigan’s spring gameA.J.

INDIANAPOLIS — The third day of player interviews at the NFL Scouting Combine are in the books, and Friday was spent with some of the heavy hitters of this year’s draft class. They all provided interesting comments and eye-brow raising lines, some of which never made it into our stories. Here’s a rundown of some of those comments and the context by which they came up:“There might be questions along that. Winning a Super Bowl, getting a yellow jacket, being defensive rookie of the year is on my list of goals.”— Oregon defensive end Kayvon Thibodeaux, explaining his message to NFL teams during the interview process“There’s no guns. Being able to know my family’s safe, know I’m safe.

The Georgia Bulldogs shattered the glass slipper of the Michigan Wolverines Cinderella season with a 34-11 demolition on New Year’s Eve in the College Football Playoff semifinal at the Capital One Orange Bowl inside Hard Rock Stadium.

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. – Michigan’s 2021 season came to an abrupt end Friday night in the Orange Bowl. There weren’t many bright spots for Michigan, which struggled on both sides of the ball. STOCK DOWNRun gameOne of the top storylines heading into Friday was Michigan’s strong power run against Georgia’s stingy front seven. It also was arguably the offensive line’s worse game of the season in both run and pass blocking. Buy Wolverines gear: Fanatics, Nike, Amazon, LidsBuy Wolverines tickets: StubHub, SeatGeek, TicketmasterStream Wolverines games live: fuboTV, ESPN+, Sling

DANIA BEACH, Fla. – It’s no secret what Michigan’s game plan on offense has been this season. They rank 10th nationally averaging 223.8 rushing yards per game and are third behind Army and Air Force with 39 touchdowns on the ground. But Michigan also hasn’t faced a front seven as stout as Georgia’s this season. “That’s pretty much the name of the game, just run to hit, make sure we wrap up, drive our feet, as well. It’s two smashmouth teams kind of going against each other, and endurance is going to play a big piece in that.

Before the second-ranked Wolverines kick off against Georgia in the Orange Bowl on Dec. 31, here is the redshirt status of every freshman. The four-star prospect from Ravenwood High in Tennessee earned a starting role Oct. 23 against Northwestern and hasn’t relinquished it. Receiver Cristian DixonThe four-star prospect from California saw a few snaps against Northern Illinois but hasn’t seen the field since. Defensive end Kechaun BennettThe four-star prospect from Connecticut has yet to make his collegiate debut. Defensive tackle Ike IwunnahIwunna, a three-star prospect from Texas, was a late add in the 2021 class.

Running back Blake Corum and safety Brad Hawkins are both in uniform and on the field ahead of Saturday’s game vs. Ohio State (noon, FOX), a top-5 showdown to determine the Big Ten East winner. More: Michigan’s best chance to beat Ohio State? Michigan (10-1, 7-1 Big Ten) could also have Hawkins back in action after the senior departed last week’s win with an undisclosed injury. He is the team’s most experienced defensive back, with 28 starts at free safety, and would be helpful against the explosive Ohio State passing attack. Ohio State is wearing its traditional scarlet jerseys and grey pants.

Michigan’s football team posted its second-highest point total of the season Saturday, routing Maryland 59-18 in College Park. Overall, Michigan received an overall grade of 76.3 (out of 100) from Pro Football Focus. With that said, here are Michigan snap counts from Saturday’s win and key takeaways from PFF’s grades. However, his overall grade was only a 78.0, largely because he received a dismal 9.1 mark in pass blocking. Even after an off game, Ojabo ranks third on the Wolverines’ defense this season with an overall grade of 84.5.

— Before Michigan even took the field Saturday afternoon, Jim Harbaugh and his players knew the deal. Michigan State was on the proverbial ropes, taking one knockout blow after another en route to an ugly 56-7 loss to Ohio State, delivering the Wolverines exactly what they needed. “We were hoping (Michigan State would lose) — and now that we got the opportunity … this game is going to influence the season and really show how far this team can go. Signs began appearing inside the football building with Ohio State on them. It’s why the 57-year-old head coach appeared unfazed over the summer when he was peppered with questions about the Ohio State rivalry.

COLLEGE PARK, Md. — It was far from traditional. Donovan Edwards signed with Michigan to be a player who tucked the football and ran with it. And while the true freshman running back did plenty of that Saturday in the Wolverines’ 59-18 win over Maryland, most of it came on throws from the quarterback.

They improve to 10-1 and 7-1 in the Big Ten, setting up a winner-take-all showdown against the Buckeyes next week. He had two career catches entering the game and added 10 more Saturday, totaling 170 yards and a touchdown. His 170 receiving yards is the most ever by a Michigan running back. Matt Torey, a walk-on receiver from Bloomfield Hills Brother Rice, had a key punt block in the second quarter, bursting through a hole and laying out to get his hands on the ball. Buy Wolverines gear: Fanatics, Nike, Amazon, LidsBuy Wolverines tickets: StubHub, SeatGeek, TicketmasterStream Wolverines games live: fuboTV, ESPN+, Sling

After a 59-18 win over Maryland on Saturday, Harbaugh’s team will get another crack at knocking preseason favorite Ohio State off the mantle next weekend in Ann Arbor. The Wolverines are now in sole possession of second place in the Big Ten’s East Division after Michigan State lost, 56-7, to Ohio State on Saturday — separating the Wolverines and Spartans by a game in the standings. “If you want to get ready to beat Ohio State, let’s do it,” Harbaugh told Michigan’s pre-game radio broadcast this week. More importantly, Michigan rides a wave of momentum ahead of its regular-season finale with Ohio State. Harbaugh will get another crack at it after all, with an opportunity to end the losing skid to Ohio State and take Michigan to Indianapolis for the first time ever.

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Michigan will be without one of its top ball carriers today against Penn State. Like last week, expect Michigan (8-1, 5-1 Big Ten) to lean on Hassan Haskins for production in the run game. Green also departed last week’s game with a injury, this one believed to be to his upper body, and never returned. But, as we saw last week, pre-game activity doesn’t necessarily translate to in-game snaps. • The all-important uniform update: Michigan will wear white tops and maize pants today, while Penn State dons its traditional blue tops and white pants.

ANN ARBOR – There were no complaints from Michigan running back Hassan Haskins last Saturday after he tied a career-high with 27 carries in a 29-7 win over Indiana. “I’ll take however many carries they give me.”The senior could be in line for another heavy workload Saturday at Penn State depending on the availability of injured running backs Blake Corum and Donovan Edwards. I’m confident in them and what they can do, and obviously we have Hassan, who is a special player. Haskins had one catch for 20 yards against Indiana but has just six receptions this season. I have no concerns with his hands.”Buy Wolverines gear: Fanatics, Nike, Amazon, LidsBuy Wolverines tickets: StubHub, SeatGeek, TicketmasterStream Wolverines games live: fuboTV, ESPN+, Sling

The four-star recruit from West Bloomfield has rushed 22 times for 139 yards and two touchdowns this season. With thin depth at the position, the three-star prospect from Florida could potentially burn his redshirt this season. Likely to redshirtDefensive tackle Rayshaun BennyThe one-time Michigan State commit was a highly touted four-star prospect out of Oak Park High. Defensive tackle Ike IwunnahIwunna, a three-star prospect from Texas, was a late add in the 2021 class. Buy Wolverines gear: Fanatics, Nike, Amazon, LidsBuy Wolverines tickets: StubHub, SeatGeek, TicketmasterStream Wolverines games live: fuboTV, ESPN+, Sling

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — Jim Harbaugh was reluctant to provide many updates on injured members of the Michigan football team on Monday. Edwards was absent from the team’s 37-33 loss to Michigan State on Saturday and did not travel with the team to East Lansing because of injury, a spokesman previously said. Meanwhile, there’s some concern about quarterback Cade McNamara, who took a couple of big hits in Saturday’s loss to Michigan State. “Good football team,” he said. “Both linebackers (are) extremely good,” Harbaugh said.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — Under normal circumstances, Donovan Edwards might have more than 17 carries to his name through six games. He knows his chance is coming,” running backs coach Mike Hart told reporters this week. I have 100-percent confidence in Donovan Edwards, to put him in the game whenever we need to.”And right now, Michigan doesn’t have a need. “He practices like it’s a game,” said Hart, who revealed that Edwards can be subject to live tackling during practice. “I just told him the other day that I’m proud of the way he’s handling things and the way he’s still coming in everyday.

ANN ARBOR -- Michigan running backs coach Mike Hart said Wednesday that his biggest regret in Michigan’s win over Washington on Sept. 11 was Donovan Edwards not playing more. The first came at the 6:40 mark of the third quarter as he bulldozed up the middle from 4 yards out. “I thought he did a phenomenal job,” said sophomore running back Blake Corum, who rushed for 125 yards and three scores Saturday. I can’t wait to see -- there’s gonna be many more runs like that from Donovan.”The Wolverines rushed for 373 yards Saturday and now lead the nation with 1,051 yards on the ground. “He’s doing a great job,” Hart told reporters Wednesday.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — Donovan Edwards only played two snaps in Michigan’s 31-10 win over Washington last weekend, getting the ball once for a four-yard carry. “He’s talented, and I told him that the other day — he should have had more carries in the game against Washington. Without a doubt.”Edwards’ debut came in a lopsided win over Western Michigan, a game that was decided early in the second half. Still, Edwards’ big-play ability remains the biggest wild card in the Michigan running back room. As a junior and senior in high school, he combined for 2,460 rushing yards, 722 receiving yards and 42 touchdowns.

ANN ARBOR – On the eve before preseason camp began last month, Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh said freshman running back Donovan Edwards would see the field on “day one.”The former top-50 recruit out of West Bloomfield High did. With the Wolverines up big in last Saturday’s season-opener against Western Michigan, Edwards had six carries in the second half for 27 yards. While his stat line wasn’t as impressive as Michigan’s two primary running backs, Hassan Haskins and Blake Corum, Edwards’ performance was encouraging to Michigan coaches. “I think Donovan Edwards is the one who probably impressed me the most,” Michigan offensive coordinator Josh Gattis told reporters Wednesday. He’s gonna have his big plays; his big plays are right around the corner.

A total of 18 players made their Michigan football debut last weekend against Western Michigan. How many of those newcomers will continue to contribute for the rest of the season?

It seems like every season a handful of true freshmen step into significant roles for Michigan football, but could it only be one this year?

Plus, the redshirt benchmark has returned, so any freshmen playing in four or more games would burn a year of eligibility. But with that said, there are a handful of true freshmen on this year’s team that could have an immediate impact. 42 overall prospect in the 2021 class, Edwards is the top-ranked running back recruit Jim Harbaugh has landed at Michigan. He isn’t where he needs to be, but you can see that he has the skill set to be really, really special one day, if he gets better. More Michigan football preseason content:MLive predictions for Michigan football in 2021Why being named a Michigan football captain means more this year for these four playersNikhai Hill-Green edges Mike Barrett for starting inside LB role at MichiganGemon Green aims to turn the corner with Michigan secondaryMichigan WR Cornelius Johnson, improved and eager to win — ‘It’s non-negotiable’Projected post-camp depth chart for Michigan football: Changes coming at TE, LB?

It happens every offseason among Michigan football fans: The number of offensive skill players generating hype far exceeds the number of those who will actually make a significant impact.

The Wolverines will begin prepping for their Sept. 4 season opener against Western Michigan (noon, ESPN) in full on Sunday, signaling the real beginning of the 2021 football season. Michigan quarterback Cade McNamara throws during warmups before an NCAA college football game against Middle Tennessee in Ann Arbor, Mich., Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019. (Mike Mulholland | MLive.com)Mike Mulholland | MLive.comWide receiver —Starters: Ronnie Bell, Cornelius Johnson, Mike SainristilBackups: Roman Wilson, Daylen Baldwin, A.J. (Mike Mulholland | MLive.com)Mike Mulholland | MLive.comLinebacker —Middle: 1. _________________________Michigan College Football Season Kickoff Event: Kickoff the Michigan Football season with MLive’s football insiders Ryan Zuke, Aaron McMann, and Andrew Kahn.

ANN ARBOR – When Mike Hart starred in Michigan’s backfield, he totaled a program-record 1,015 career carries from 2004-07. “I think everyone knows it’s gonna take more than two running backs to get through the season,” Hart told reporters Thursday outside of Schembechler Hall. The duo is likely to receive a bulk of the playing time this season, although Hart said there is no outlined rotation. “I wouldn’t say it doesn’t exist anymore,” Hart said of the days where running backs carried 25-30 times per game. Most teams play more than one running back now, so it’s hard to get 30 carries.

But on Monday, eight schools were represented: Bay City John Glenn, Fruitport, Muskegon, Muskegon Catholic Central, New Haven, Romulus, Spring Lake and West Bloomfield. Players huddle around Muskegon offensive line coach Matt Bolles to break a huddle during the Muskegon Big Red Offensive Line Camp Monday, June 14, 2021, at Hackley Stadium in Muskegon, Mich. Players from eight schools locally and across the state participated in the camp. On the field, the camp is broken into several stations where offensive line coaches, assistants and even head coaches instruct and oversee various offensive line drills. Muskegon head football coach Shane Fairfield, right, and Big Reds offensive line coach Matt Bolles chat during the Muskegon Big Red Offensive Line Camp Monday, June 14, 2021, at Hackley Stadium in Muskegon, Mich. Players from eight schools locally and across the state participated in the camp. For Garrett, the Muskegon Big Red Offensive Line Camp is well worth the drive across the state.

Jim Harbaugh updated Michigan football's depth chart at running back, including how Blake Corum, Hassan Haskins and Donovan Edwards fit in right now.

If you’re counting on Donovan Edwards to make a huge splash running the football this fall, you might want to temper your expectations a bit. “Blake Corum and Hassan Haskins are two tremendous players,” Harbaugh told host Jon Jansen. “That’s where a bulk of the carries are going to go. In six games, four running backs had at least 15 carries — while quarterback Joe Milton was second with 38. He said Edwards played in the Michigan state championship game in January with a cast on his hand to protect an injured thumb.

“Donovan has displayed some unique talent,” Michigan offensive coordinator Josh Gattis told reporters Wednesday. “We’ve got the highest number of midyear offensive enrollees that we’ve ever had, which provides us tremendous depth this spring,” Gattis said. Getting those guys in, getting their bodies developed and seeing those guys, they’re further along than any other freshman offensive linemen could possibly be at this point. The majority of those guys are running with our twos just because of the bodies that we have. The Wolverines also return Blake Corum, who totaled 180 yards on 31 offensive touches as a true freshman in 2020.

Ten freshmen are off to an early start in their Michigan football careers as mid-year enrollees. Last season, five of Michigan’s eight early enrollees saw the field as freshman. While the truncated 2020 season was an outlier because of the NCAA’s eligibility blanket waiver, a few Wolverines early enrollees earned notable roles as true freshmen. With that said, here are five early enrollees in the 2021 class who can benefit the most. Four-star receiver Cristian DixonThe California product was one of two early enrollees who had his senior season postponed because of COVID-19.

But first, a look at where Michigan stands at running back heading into spring 2021. With a new quarterback set to break in Week 1 against Minnesota, the Wolverines leaned on the running game early — and it paid dividends. Haskins led all running backs with 56 rushing yards on eight carries, while Charbonnet followed up with three yards on five carries. Michigan State won the game, 27-24. But the running game certainly didn’t help things.

Garrett Dellinger, OT, Clarkston6-6, 2804 starsStatus: Signed with LSUDellinger is heading to play for the defending national champions after committing to LSU back in June. Detroit Cass Tech's Kalen King (2) celebrates after a pass break-up during their high school football game against Detroit Martin Luther King at Cass Tech High School in Detroit, on Saturday, September 19, 2020. He picked the Wolverines over Michigan State, despite the Spartans being just down the road from his school. He picked the Cornhuskers over Michigan State, Florida State, Cincinnati and Minnesota. If he plays safety at Central Michigan, he could develop into one of the top safeties in the MAC.

Although he is officially enrolled as a University of Michigan football player, running back Donovan Edwards is still getting recognized for his efforts as a high school star at West Bloomfield by being named the 2020 Mr. Football award winner. In the three games following the presentation of the MLive award, Edwards made his strongest case for the Mr. Football award. Donovan Edwards - West Bloomfield - 2020 STATE CHAMPS! Mr. Football https://t.co/cW3gPLomw9 — STATE CHAMPS! Brady also joined Edwards as a finalist for Mr. Football along with Belleville senior quarterback Christian Dhue-Reid and DeWitt junior quarterback Ty Holtz.

The praise just keeps coming for new Michigan running back Donovan Edwards as he earned a fifth star from one of the nation’s top recruiting services. On Wednesday morning, 247Sports updated its independent recruit rankings and gave Edwards the prestigious fifth star after he spent all season with four stars. The 247Sports composite rankings -- which factors in rankings from other sources -- increased Edwards’ overall rating, but he still maintains a high four-star on that list. 247Sports′ Chance Linston wrote about Edwards’ elevation from four star to five star, noting that Edwards “(h)as looked college-ready since his sophomore season” and that his professional player comparison is Alvin Kamara of the New Orleans Saints. Shortly after winning the title, it was announced West Bloomfield coach Ron Bellamy was going to join Edwards at Michigan as a wide receivers coach.

“That’s to motivate my teammates,” Edwards said. After accepting a more limited role in the regular season, Edwards was more fresh and ready than ever to make a deep playoff run each year. With each passing game, Edwards continued to prove he was the most athletically gifted football player in Michigan. According to Bellamy, Edwards is just getting started. “I think you’re looking at a guy who can be a future All-American at Michigan,” Bellamy said.

On Monday morning, the 6-foot-2, 235-pound athlete announced a top 10 comprising of Michigan, Michigan State, Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, Cincinnati, Ole Miss, Arizona State, Maryland and Syracuse. Williams is a consensus four-star recruit from West Bloomfield who can play defensive end, tight end and linebacker, giving him the “athlete” status by Rivals. Williams is one of two highly-ranked 2022 recruits from West Bloomfield with Michigan and Michigan State offers as four-star West Bloomfield RB/DB Dillon Tatum is a prime target for the Wolverines and Spartans too. Michigan just hired West Bloomfield head coach Ron Bellamy onto its coaching staff and added four-star 2021 West Bloomfield running back Donovan Edwards as an early enrollee. MORENew Michigan coaching hire Ron Bellamy writes goodbye to West Bloomfield after winning state titleMichigan football staff shakeup continues: Ed Warinner out for Ron Bellamy‘They can’t catch me’: Michigan signee Donovan Edwards runs wild in West Bloomfield’s state title winWatch West Bloomfield celebrate Division 1 state football title at Ford FieldMichigan recruit Donovan Edwards leads West Bloomfield to Division 1 state football title

The longest high school football season in Michigan history is finally over. Now, the candidates:Donovan Edwards led West Bloomfield to a 41-0 victory over Davison in the Division 1 state championship game. Julius Garza (3) scored four touchdowns in New Lothrop's Division 7 state championship victory over Traverse City St. Francis. He caught two touchdown passes, rushed for 139 yards and another TD, and returned a kickoff 83 yards for a fourth score. (J. Scott Park | MLive.com)J. Scott Park | MLive.comWill Beesley, Warren DeLaSalleBeesley had 20 tackles that included 17 solo takedowns in a 25-19 loss to Muskegon Mona Shores in Division 2.

Bellamy’s first season as head coach at West Bloomfield was in the fall of 2010. Bellamy got West Bloomfield to a state championship game in 2017, but fell to rival Clarkston, 3-2. Twelve years ago God sent me to West Bloomfield to do his work. Lastly, I would like to thank the leaders at West Bloomfield for the love and support that has been delivered every year. MOREMichigan football staff shakeup continues: Ed Warinner out for Ron Bellamy‘They can’t catch me’: Michigan signee Donovan Edwards runs wild in West Bloomfield’s state title winWatch West Bloomfield celebrate Division 1 state football title at Ford FieldMichigan recruit Donovan Edwards leads West Bloomfield to Division 1 state football title

Ford Field was a little emptier this weekend for the state high school football finals due to attendance restrictions caused by the pandemic. Keith DunlapThe finish line for fall high school sports in the state of Michigan has been reached. After going 0-5 in its previous appearances in the championship game, DeWitt finally won its first state title in school history by dethroning defending state champion River Rouge. But Country Day finally took home the state championship trophy for the first time since 1999 thanks to a dominant defensive effort. But New Lothrop recovered the onside kick and ran out the clock to win its second state title in three years.

DETROIT – Like a hurricane moving from island to island, Donovan Edwards had been a destructive force for the West Bloomfield football program throughout the playoffs. “He’s the best football player in the state of Michigan,” West Bloomfield coach Ron Bellamy said. “Remember, we are a football team that does not play our players the entire football game,” Bellamy said. Hell yeah it is.”Perfectly complimenting the offensive output from Edwards was a superb effort by the West Bloomfield defense. All things considered, West Bloomfield could not have looked any better in clinching its first championship.

You can’t do that against a team like West Bloomfield.”But perhaps the biggest blow came with 8:01 remaining in the first quarter. On a first-down catch, star defensive end and tight end Harry Unger went down with a hyperextended knee. “Harry’s our best player … he plays defensive end, tight end, slot receiver for us,” Weingartz said. Davison lost two fumbles, with West Bloomfield returning one for a touchdown. This is not the result we wanted, but getting here is pretty special.”MOREWatch West Bloomfield celebrate Division 1 state titleMichigan recruit Donovan Edwards leads West Bloomfield to state title

DETROIT – Donovan Edwards led West Bloomfield to the Division 1 football state championship Saturday, defeating Davison, 41-0. The loss was the worst for Davison since 2013, when they lost 42-0 to Flint Carman-Ainsworth. Check out the video above to watch their championship celebration. READ MORE:Julius Garza’s all-time performance helps New Lothrop football stave off T. C. St. Francis for D-7 state titleCurse broken! Detroit Country Day football finally wins at Ford Field with dominant defenseMontague roars past Clinton 40-14 for Division 6 state title of Michigan high school footballMuskegon Mona Shores beats Warren De La Salle 25-19 to earn Division 2 state title for Michigan high school footballBig plays, stout defense lead Centreville to first football state title

West Bloomfield 41, Davison 09:40: West Bloomfield forces another Davison punt and takes over on its 49. 5:39: Davison fumbles and West Bloomfield recovers but after a review Davison keeps possession because of a West Bloomfield defender was out of bounds when he touched the ball. — Hugh Bernreuter (@BernreuterHugh) January 23, 202110:16: After another short Davison punt, West Bloomfield takes over on its own 17. The game will feature perhaps the best running back in the state, Michigan recruit Donovan Edwards of West Bloomfield. MORE:How to watch Saturday’s state final gamesDavison trying to repeat as state championRecent rulings surprise MHSAA executive directorMLive readers predict state football champsIncrease in capacity too late for football finals

The credentials of the West Bloomfield offense and Edwards speak for itself. Not to get lost in the fray, however, is the West Bloomfield defense that has set up its offense with opportunities all season. “He did a phenomenal job in the Belleville game,” Bellamy said of Green. “We gave the kids 24 hours to enjoy that win,” Bellamy said. That average is just under the 8.72 points per game allowed by West Bloomfield this year.

The Cardinals are returning to the state title game for the second consecutive year after beating the Rams 27-3. The Cougars defeated Freeland 49-14 to advance to the state finals for the fourth time in the past five season. St. Francis edged Cass City 13-12 to advance to the state finals for the first time since 2009. Centreville has advanced to its first state title game after Everest was forced to forfeit Saturday’s semifinal due to coronavirus issues. PHOTOS GALOREChelsea vs. River Rouge footballClinton defeats Constantine in Division 6 football state semifinalsDavison defeats Rockford 27-3, heads to Ford FieldNo.

WEST BLOOMFIELD, Mich. – As the West Bloomfield football team prepares for the Division 1 state semifinals, a familiar obstacle awaits as it hopes to advance to the state championship for the first time since 2017. While this season’s matchup comes a round later, West Bloomfield (9-1) will once again travel to Belleville (10-0) to try and keep its championship hopes alive. Last season, Belleville claimed a 27-22 win. “When you get to this stage in the semifinals, everyone is going to be good,” West Bloomfield coach Ron Bellamy said. They’ve got a great football program.”Yet, West Bloomfield counters with plenty of talent of its own.

The roller coaster that is the 2020 Michigan high school football season hit a new low Tuesday, causing some to wonder what happened and how much more kids can stomach. “It’s like a yo-yo,” said West Bloomfield football coach Ron Bellamy, whose team is scheduled to host Romeo in a Division 1 regional final. These kids, they’re losing hope.”West Bloomfield coach Ron Bellamy fist-bumps Donovan Edwards (6) during their high school football game against Oak Park at Oak Park High School in Oak Park, on Friday, September 18, 2020. Michigan Center's Joe Olkowski (11) celebrates with coach Troy Allen during a MHSAA Division 6 district final high school football game in Jonesville on Friday, Nov. 13, 2020. More coverage:Michigan high school football put back on pause while officials work out COVID testing detailsMichigan high school football: Highlights, photos, links, more as practice resumes MondayMichigan high school football practice to return on Monday, fall sports allowed to finish seasonsBack on: Michigan high school football coaches react to Friday’s surprising news

LANSING, Mich. – Considering Michigan boasts the nation’s largest football stadium and fills it when the coronavirus isn’t lurking -- college football is huge in the state. The Michigan Legislature passed a couple of bills that would allow for paying college athletes. The bill prohibits sports organizations from preventing a student-athlete from receiving compensation from the use of their name, image or likeness. He said he believes the new bills surrounding the use of the name, image and likeness will help student-athletes like Edwards. Michigan Sen. Adam Hollier is a former college athlete who championed the legislation because the NCAA has dragged its feet and penalized student-athletes wrongfully for many years.

Despite the Wolverines coming off their worst season of Jim Harbaugh’s regime, they ended national signing day with the 12th-ranked class in the country. The Wolverines inked 20 players as the three-day early signing period began Wednesday. Negative recruiting,” Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel said last week when asked about Harbaugh’s contract. Edwards bolsters what arguably is the most talented class Harbaugh has ever signed on the offensive side of the ball. The Wolverines didn’t add a natural defensive tackle for the second straight cycle, at least not yet.

Cornelius Johnson #6 of the Michigan Wolverines celebrate a fourth quarter touchdown during the game against the Michigan State Spartans at Michigan Stadium on November 16, 2019 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Michigan football has officially signed 20 new players, and the overwhelming theme of this roster is a stacked offense and a defense with major holes. Offensive firepowerThere will certainly be transfers, NFL draft declarations and possibly even some late additions to the roster before the 2021 season, but as it stands, Michigan’s offense looks completely loaded. All three were stars in high school and highly regarded during the recruiting process. Losing commit Quintin Somerville to UCLA on Wednesday was a major blow for the 2021 class, as now, Kechaun Bennett, T.J.

But the bad news stopped there, as the biggest announcement of the day went in Michigan’s favor. Four-star running back Donovan Edwards, of West Bloomfield High School, chose Michigan over Georgia, Oklahoma, Ohio State and dozens of other offers. That would not have been good news for Michigan, especially since a new defensive staff is likely to take over. Finally, three-star cornerback Ja’Den McBurrows went on Instagram Live and chose Michigan over hometown Miami. McBurrows had scholarship offers from Alabama, Georgia, LSU, Ohio State, Penn State, Florida State, Miami and many others.

RECRUITING: Michigan football’s depleted defense loses 2 of top commits on National Signing DayOn-field performance was the most obvious reason to believe Michigan could lose some of its top committed players. The Wolverines lost four of six games this season, including to in-state rival Michigan State and then-winless Penn State. Other than the Michigan State game, the losses weren’t even competitive. Michigan football recruiting: 4 victories, 2 major blows for 2021 class on National Signing DayEven Ja’Den McBurrows stuck with Michigan despite a full-court press from his hometown Miami Hurricanes, who enjoyed an 8-2 season. For Michigan to beat out those schools and sign Worthy, Edwards, Hood and McBurrows is a testament to the coaching staff’s ability to overcome enormous recruiting obstacles and keep the class together.

WEST BLOOMFIELD, Mich. – No one knew which college football program Donovan Edwards was going to commit to on Wednesday afternoon. In fact, not even Edwards knew which school he was going to commit to until that morning. Although he built a great relationship with the Michigan coaching staff already, Edwards says coaching was not the biggest reason for him picking the Wolverines. As a nice bonus for Michigan fans, Edwards said Ohio State was his front runner for a long time. Despite Michigan’s crowded running back room, Edwards said he believes he will have the opportunity to make an early impact with the team.

WEST BLOOMFIELD, Mich. – West Bloomfield running back Donovan Edwards -- a top 50 recruit and the No. 2 player in the state -- committed to Michigan football Wednesday over dozens of other programs. Edwards announced his decision on National Signing Day, choosing the Wolverines over programs such as Georgia, Oklahoma, Alabama, Auburn, Florida, LSU, Ohio State, Notre Dame, Oregon, Penn State, USC, Wisconsin and Michigan State. 2 player in Michigan, Edwards is ranked No. While Michigan was in the mix for Edwards the entire cycle, Notre Dame, Ohio State, Georgia and Oklahoma were also contenders.

West Bloomfield four-star running back Donovan Edwards announced his college decision at his high school Wednesday on ESPN2. “I feel as though I have great relationships with the coaching staff and the players that are on the team.”Watch Edwards’ announcement here: https://www.facebook.com/mlive/videos/412775443199225/Live: Donovan Edwards Commitment Four-star running back recruit Donovan Edwards of West Bloomfield is about to announce his commitment. Edwards has long been considered a Michigan lean but decided to wait to make his decision until early signing day. He was a finalist for the Michigan High School Football Player of the Year award and finished runner-up in voting to Brady Rose of Mona Shores High School this fall. Get Wolverine Confidential texts straight to your phone from our Michigan football writers.

UPDATE: Michigan lands top remaining 2021 target in West Bloomfield 4-star RB Donovan EdwardsFour-star running back Donovan Edwards of West Bloomfield is set to announce his commitment in an outdoor ceremony at 1:30 p.m. today. MLive will be live streaming the event at West Bloomfield High School’s football field. You can watch the live event on MLive’s Facebook page by clicking here. He has Michigan on his list of top seven schools along with Alabama, Notre Dame, Georgia, LSU, Penn State and Oklahoma. According to West Bloomfield coach Ron Bellamy -- who is a former Michigan player himself -- Edwards had 1,021 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns in nine games this season.

STORY: Michigan holds on to sign its only cornerback in 2021 class, Ja’Den McBurrowsWelcome to Michigan, Ja'Den McBurrows! NSD CENTRAL » https://t.co/CFn7hRvre7 #GoBlue | #NewBlue | #NSD21 pic.twitter.com/kqV3FdYRau — Michigan Football (@UMichFootball) December 17, 20207:48 p.m. -- Ft. Lauderdale (Fla.) St. Thomas Aquinas Jaydon Hood tells The Michigan Insider’s Sam Webb that he has committed to Michigan. NSD CENTRAL » https://t.co/CFn7hRvre7 #GoBlue | #NewBlue | #NSD21 pic.twitter.com/KyCBKFKjTY — Michigan Football (@UMichFootball) December 16, 20205:04 p.m. -- Michigan four-star center recruit Greg Crippen shares some photos from his signing ceremony. STORY: Michigan football loses another 2021 recruit as 4-star DE Quintin Somerville flips to UCLASaguaro’s Quintin Somerville flips from Michigan to UCLA on signing day. Go Blue〽️ pic.twitter.com/W5RNtRXIQm — Dominick Giudice (@dom_giudice27) December 16, 2020****Early signing day should bring plenty of intrigue for Michigan football fans this year.

The popular early signing period has arrived, meaning high school football recruits in the 2021 recruiting class can sign with NCAA Division I programs. Recruits across Michigan can start sending in their National Letters of Intent at 7 a.m. Wednesday and up until 11:59 p.m. on Friday. MORE: Donovan Edwards not concerned about Michigan’s struggles this year, eyes improvement with new recruitsSigning with Northwestern football ‘a dream come true’ for Portage Northern’s Anthony Tyus“It feels great,” Tyus said. East Lansing wide receiver Andrel Anthony makes it official with Michigan while teammate Ethan Boyd signed with the Michigan State Spartans. Check out his highlights below!#NIU2K21 | #NSD21 pic.twitter.com/M2e4ccxW4R — NIU Football (@NIU_Football) December 16, 2020Oak Park’s Jaylin Mines signs with Toledo

A few prospects’ decisions on early signing day could have a drastic effect on Michigan’s 2021 recruiting class. On Tuesday, four Crystal Ball predictions have flipped from Michigan to Maryland, while the Wolverines still hold seven predictions. There are no submitted Crystal Ball predictions for him. Lehigh Acres (Fla.) four-star cornerback Omarion CooperCooper, the No. The only Crystal Ball prediction is in favor of Cooper remaining with the Seminoles.

WEST BLOOMFIELD, Mich. The coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis is constantly changing, but Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has permitted high school sports to resume practicing outside. Monday was the first day of football practice at West Bloomfield High School, and there are a lot of changes from last year. The West Bloomfield Lakers are physically back on the field, but practice is far from usual. Bellamy said the school is following guidelines set by the Michigan High School Athletic Association.