Spartan Nation

Michigan State Trending For 4-Star Linebacker Hours Before Decision

This recruitment has shifted in a hurry!

Matthew Lounsberry

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Michigan State may be on the verge of an upset on the recruiting trail this Friday, as the Spartans are now trending for one of the top prospects from the West Coast.

Four-star Long Beach (Calif.) Poly linebacker Dylan Williams took an official visit to East Lansing a little over a month ago over the weekend of June 2, and by multiple accounts MSU linebackers coach Scottie Hazelton, head coach Mel Tucker and the support staff did an excellent job in pitching the California native on the idea of playing collegiate football in the Midwest.

With that said, Oregon emerged as the favorite in Williams' recruitment following an official visit to Eugene the very next weekend. The Ducks remained the favorite throughout the month, even landing a "crystal ball" prediction from 247Sports' director of football recruiting Steve Wiltfong on June 22.

However, Michigan State stayed in close contention for Williams, who announced on Independence Day that he would be announcing his commitment on July 7. A little over 24 hours before the 6-foot-2, 210-pounder is set to make that announcement, there's growing buzz that the Spartans may now be in the pole position for his verbal pledge.

MSU insiders Justin Thind and Corey Robinson, both of whom write for 247Sports affiliate Spartan Tailgate, have each placed "crystal balls" on Michigan State to land Williams when he announces tomorrow at 1:30 p.m. Pacific Standard Time (4:30 p.m. EST).

This would be a huge out-of-region win on the recruiting trail for Tucker and Hazelton. Williams is considered the No. 181 overall prospect, No. 17 linebacker and No. 17 player from the talent-rich state of California, according to 247Sports' composite rankings.

With the recent optimism surrounding Williams, July 7 could end up being a massive day for Michigan State's 2024 recruiting efforts. Four-star River Rouge (Mich.) wide receiver Nick Marsh is also set to announce his commitment, and the Spartans lead with six "crystal ball" predictions to land his services as well. Pittsburgh, Penn State, Kansas and Oregon were also listed in Marsh's 'Top 5' back on June 8, and MSU will attempt to hold off those schools in the final hours leading up to his commitment at 5 p.m. EST.

Spartan Nation will continue to monitor the recruitments of Williams and Marsh leading up to their announcements.

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Matthew Lounsberry
MATTHEW LOUNSBERRY

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