Michigan Football: More optimism about 2021 DT Ikechukwu Iwunnah

With national signing day just a few days out, there is growing optimism that Michigan football could potentially flip Colorado commitment and 2021 defensive tackle Ikechukwu Iwunnah.

Iwunnah was a late offer by the Wolverines this cycle as they offered him on Jan. 28, just three days after he announced his commitment to Colorado.

And since the Wolverines extended the offer, it’s pretty clear that they have been gaining momentum in his recruitment and if you read between the lines, it’s obvious this is a legitimate recruiting battle.

Shortly after Michigan football offered, the three-star defensive tackle was talking about having a decision to make, which isn’t true if you have already decided where you are going, so I take that as a positive for Michigan.

Iwunnah is ranked as the 1,102 player overall in the class of 2021 according to the 247 sports composite rankings, he’s 62nd among defensive tackles and at 6-foot-4, 275 pounds, he would be a really solid get.

Josh Newkirk of the Michigan Insider also caught up the recruiting coordinator at Iwunnah’s high school in Texas, Ant Saincilaire and that conversation should give fans even more reason for hope. Here’s what the coach said when asked how legitimate the interest was in Michigan:

"“He’s very interested in Michigan. I think it’s gonna come down between Michigan and Colorado for sure. Obviously, you would love to have this over with by now, but what opportunity that Michigan has offered him, not just athletically, but academically, it automatically requires your interest.”"

Saincilaire also talked about why the Wolverines are so interested in adding the defensive tackle prospect to their 2021 class:

"“It’s definitely size and strength, he can move and do those things. So, he brings a certain type of luxury, which allows you to be a little bit more creative, because he can go inside a little bit and go outside. Whichever way you want to have or use him. And he’s strong enough and fast enough to be able to do both. And so they love it. They love the fact that he has a high ceiling.”"

Breaking down what it means for Michigan

Iwunnah is definitely a guy with upside and along with George Rooks, who committed last week, he would fill a huge need along the defensive line.

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And even though he’s ranked lower, he’s got a lot of untapped potential which is all you can hope for this late in the game.

While Colorado holds the commitment right now, the Buffaloes can’t feel that solid about it. Iwunnah hasn’t visited either school and one thing that could play in Michigan’s favor is the fact that Maurice Linguist, the new co-defensive coordinator is from a similar part of Texas.

The academics could also be a game-changing factor and for all those reasons, EJ Holland of Rivals said he was “optimistic” about Michigan’s chances of flipping him on his latest podcast.

It’s well worth the listen and if you take the time, you will come away feeling better about Michigan’s chances too.

Defensive tackle is still a need and adding a 6-foot-4 guy who will easily become a 300-pounder would be a nice addition.

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