Michigan Football: Latest on Rocco Spindler, scholarship numbers

Here’s the latest being reported about Rocco Spindler, as well as a key tidbit about potential scholarship numbers in the 2021 recruiting class.

This is a huge week for Michigan football and its 2021 recruiting class. The big day, of course, comes Saturday as long-time target Rocco Spindler will finally make his decision.

The No. 3 player in the state of Michigan according to the 247 sports composite rankings, as well as No. 48 overall in 2021, will be making his call on CBS Sports Network.

But just days away from the decision, the 6-foot-5 product from Clarkston still hasn’t made a decision or at least hasn’t made a decision known to either staff and according to EJ Holland of Rivals ($), Spindler isn’t talking to anybody right now.

Here’s what Holland wrote about Spindler not talking to either side:

"“I’m not exactly sure when the hiatus will end, but I’m assuming it will be 24-48 hours before his decision, which is still set for Saturday afternoon. This one continues to be a Michigan vs. Notre Dame battle, and Spindler is analyzing both of his finalists carefully before announcing.”"

Outside of the fact that Spindler isn’t talking to any schools as he makes his final decision, there isn’t anything new. Everyone knows this is down to Michigan and Notre Dame. Some are leaning Irish and some are leaning towards the Wolverines.

There are reasons why this is a must-get recruit for both programs. It would certainly help Michigan in its pursuit of Donovan Edwards and missing on another player this talented, this close to home would be a hard pill to swallow.

We’ll see what happens Saturday.

What about the total numbers for 2021?

Another interesting thing Holland reported over the weekend ($) was that the final number for the 2021 recruiting class is expected to be 27.

This might not sound like a big deal, but it is.  At least it could be. The number was expected to be around 25-26 and it’s possible the transfer of Aaron Lewis has opened another spot.

Holland brought up the point talking about wide receiver and four-star Jayden Thomas. Michigan football already has four wideouts this cycle and many are wondering if U-M will still recruit Thomas?

Because of the late time period of his decision, Holland believes the Wolverines will and it makes sense. He’s a solid prospect and the baseball program really likes him.

Plus if Michigan doesn’t get him, he could end up at Notre Dame. Either way, that’s something to watch. One player I continue to monitor for an offer is three-star cornerback Maxwell Hairston.

Hairston has the speed and the man coverage skills it takes to succeed at the next level and if there’s another spot available, maybe he could be the second corner.

Kamonte Grimes is right there too and Daymon David is the top target left at safety. And depending on how things work out, Michigan could add two more defensive backs in this class.

A lot of things could still happen. Michigan is holding out hope for someone like pass rusher Dallas Turner and corner Ceyair Wright. But still, numbers are getting tight and what happens Saturday with Spindler will also have an impact.