Mike McCray, a 6-foot-4, 230-pound junior linebacker who also plays receiver for the Rams, committed to head coach Brady Hoke and the University of Michigan on Tuesday during a visit to the Ann Arbor campus with his parents.
“I feel a great connection between me and Michigan,” he said after arriving back in town. “They have everything I’m looking for — the family atmosphere, the winning program, a lot of history and a bright future.”
Others offering scholarships included Oklahoma, Illinois, South Carolina, Tennessee and Purdue. If only because his dad, Trotwood linebackers coach Mike “Big Mike” McCray, played there in the 1980s, Ohio State had been seen as a contender, but the Buckeyes never officially offered.
“They sent him a letter last Thursday telling him to hold on, that they were still evaluating linebackers,” Douglass said.
Meanwhile, McCray said he prayed about the decision one night and, upon awakening, his mind was made up.
Ranked 40th nationally in his class by Rivals.com, McCray did it all last season for Trotwood’s state title team. He had 132 tackles, five interceptions, three forced fumbles and a blocked punt, which led to a touchdown in a first-round playoff win over Hamilton Ross. The team’s only two-way starter also caught 25 passes for 500-plus yards and 13 touchdowns.
“My goal is to win the (Greater Western Ohio Conference) for the fourth straight year and (another) state championship,” McCray said, looking ahead to next season.
Trotwood graduates Roy Roundtree, a receiver, and Brandon Moore, a tight end, will be Michigan seniors in the fall.
About the Author