Michigan Football Recruiting: Targets Wolverines Must Sign to Solidify Top Class

After losing 5-star safety Leon McQuay III to USC, Michigan football has its work cut out for it if it hopes to regain the distinction of the No. 1 recruiting class in 2013.

McQuay made the announcement on Jan. 4 during the Under Armour All-America Game.

Notre Dame, Alabama and USC have all surpassed the Michigan Wolverines in Rivals 2013 recruiting team rankings. The shift has come in recent weeks thanks to some key signings falling in each team’s favor.

Recruiting is only the first step in winning football games, but the Wolverines need a big push in the final rounds of this class in order to keep pace with Ohio State.

The Buckeyes are only getting better with every recruit that commits. Michigan can’t get left behind.

Let’s take a look at three remaining targets the Wolverines need to make a big final push for in order to keep pace with their rivals and get back on top of this year’s recruiting class rankings.

Laquon Treadwell, WR

Laquon Treadwell has all but told people he won’t be coming to Michigan. The No. 1 wide receiver recruit in the nation would certainly help change the tide of the recruiting battle if he were to change his mind and end up in Maize and Blue.

Treadwell is the receiver the Wolverines need but probably won’t get. His combination of size and speed makes him an instant contributor. Treadwell and Shane Morris would be an ideal pair to combine as a nucleus for the next few years.

Derrick Green, RB

Derrick Green is more likely to sign a commitment to Michigan than the formerly mentioned Treadwell. The signing would undoubtedly help solidify the already impressive 2013 recruiting class of the Wolverines.

Green is a bruising back with good speed to go along with his big size. The only problem with Green might be his ability to lower his frame while running. Taller backs tend to stand up higher and absorb more hits as a result.

If he can lower his center of gravity and use his size to break tackles, he has the speed to make big plays.

Joe Mathis, DE

Joe Mathis is a 4-star defender that is high on Michigan and could end up signing with the Wolverines before all is said and done. He’s fast (4.69 40-yard dash) and has the size necessary to hold his own on the edges of a Big Ten defensive line.

If the Wolverines add another big-time defender to this class, it will definitely help make up for the loss of McQuay and shift the focus back onto the offseason's success.