You have to give credit where credit’s due.
The University of Michigan’s ability to turn its sign-stealing scandal into an “us against the world” mentality has seemingly resonated with recruits around the country, and one in particular on Tuesday.
Fort Myers (Fla.) Bishop Verot four-star quarterback Carter Smith announced his verbal pledge to the Wolverines on social media.
Grateful to have this opportunity! @Hayesfawcett3 @CoachKCampbell @CoachRodeBV @Coach_SMoore @CoachVillegasBV @CoachJim4UM pic.twitter.com/VhdtBglMoM
— Carter Smith (@_CarterSmith9) November 14, 2023
Smith, according to the 247Sports Composite rankings, currently ranks as the No. 14 overall quarterback and No. 213 prospect nationally in the class of 2025. He chose Jim Harbaugh’s program over offers from schools like Florida, Florida State, Miami, Ole Miss, Penn State, and Texas A&M.
Here’s what he told 247’s Steve Wiltfong regarding his decision to
“Just the history of the program alone is special, but what they are doing as a program is top of the line, and so is what Coach Campbell does with the quarterbacks,” Smith said.
Quarterbacks coach Kirk Campbell, who Smith referenced above, was the lead recruiter for the highly-touted signal caller. Campbell was also pivotal in the recruitment of Charlotte (NC) Providence Day School four-star quarterback Jadyn Davis, who is set to sign with the program next month at the earliest, and has a good chance at succeeding J.J. McCarthy under center.
Smith’s prep career has been nothing short of exceptional. According to 247, per the course of his three years as a varsity starter, he has completed over 60% of his passes, amassing nearly 7,000 yards passing and an impressive 69 touchdowns with only a mere 10 interceptions. His rushing stats are equally impressive, with 1,878 yards and an additional 41 touchdowns. Smith’s junior year was particularly remarkable, with 25 passing touchdowns and just one interception, along with another 16 rushing touchdowns in just 10 games.
It remains to be seen how the NCAA’s ongoing investigation will ultimately affect Michigan’s recruitment down the line, but that notably didn’t seem to factor in the 6-foot-3, 180-pound Smith’s decision.
