One day before his final high school football season begins, Whitmer's Chris Wormley chose where he will attend college.
It will be at the University of Michigan, a decision that had been expected since late June when Wormley declared the Wolverines the odds-on favorite to receive his verbal commitment.
A 6-foot-6, 270-pound defensive end, Wormley revealed his intentions during a visit to Ann Arbor for Michigan's BBQ at the Big House recruiting event.
He becomes the 21st verbal commitment in the Wolverines' 2012 class, which most recruiting insiders proclaim a top 5 class, if not the nation's best overall.
"I think deep down, that's what he's wanted to do for a while," Whitmer coach Joe Palka said. "I've been very impressed with Michigan's coaching staff."
Although a lifelong Michigan fan, the Wolverines were not always necessarily the frontrunner to land Wormley. It was believed UM and Ohio State were neck-and-neck at one point, with Notre Dame and Michigan State trying to play spoiler. But with a NCAA investigation at OSU already having caused former coach Jim Tressel to lose his job and threatening to inflict more damage, Wormley moved Michigan to the top of his list.
Wormley was expected to make his decision before, or at the beginning, of Whitmer's fall camp. The Panthers, who made it to the state final four a year ago, are scheduled to begin practice Monday.
Recruiting assessments of Wormley are varied. Rivals.com lists him as a three-star recruit -- out of five -- and the 22nd best player nationally at his position. Scout.com thinks more highly of Wormley, grading him a four-star prospect and the 20th best defensive end. ESPNU views Wormley similarly -- as a four-star recruit and the 16th best end.
Palka said 10 of the Big Ten's 12 teams have offered Wormley a scholarship, with Penn State and Minnesota being the exceptions. Wormley's appeal has been felt down south too as Alabama, Tennessee, and Florida from the Southeastern Conference have extended offers.
"The way I phrase it is anyone who has seen tape of him or has come around here have all offered him," Palka said.
First Published August 1, 2011, 4:15 a.m.
