Michigan Friday: Get's a Kick Start to the Holiday

What are the 2 things Michigan and Boise State have in common?  They were both just kicks away from being in the Rose Bowl.  Ok, Michigan was much more then 3 points from a BCS game, but it sounds good doesn't it?

The two things are; they both have high powered offenses and both programs really needs a kicker next year.  Well, it seems Michigan has grabbed Boise State's plans for next year by getting California place kicker Matt Goudis to change his verbal commit from Boise to Michigan. 

Matt was selected as the first team place kicker in his league and is rated two stars by Rivals and 3 stars by Rivals.  Chris Sailer a kicking expert rates Matt has the #2 kicker in the entire 2011 class (the photo punting above is also from Chris's site).  Here is his write up:  Matt is simply an outstanding all around kicker.  He has a huge leg, makes FG's with ease off the ground, and kickoffs with the best of them.  Mentally he is very strong showing great maturity to kick at the next level.  Can also punt.  Has all the tools to dominate the D1 level.  Definite scholarship pick.

This is an important pick up for the Wolverines for the 2011 class.  Michigan wasn't planning to offer a kicker this year but it became a very important need during the season.  As you know by now this 2011 class is filling up fast.   Michigan now has 14 verbals commitments which leaves only 6 spots left.

In the past week, Michigan has landed an Army All American DB, an instate LB, and now a kicker.  Antonio's Kinard the 2010 LB that worked hard at Hargrave Military to become eligible is still a question mark if he will be part of this class or not.   A couple things to consider regarding Antonio:  Are there any issues with him coming from a prep school (usually not - but you never know - It's difficult for junior college transfers to get into Michigan but coming from a prep school seems less problematic)?  If he enrolls in January, Michigan could use a 2010 (if they have any left) or a 2011 scholarship.  Michigan had plenty of extra scholarships available in the 2010 class but did the coaching staff give those out to walk on's?  If they do have a 2010 left that would probably be good news for Mr. Kinard.    


Below is a 54 yard field goal and Matt kicking the ball out of the stadium on a kick-off.