Michigan ramps up efforts to flip elite LSU commit who "loves Michigan....

In the world of college football recruiting, momentum can change overnight. One week a player is locked in with a program, and the next he’s taking a surprise visit somewhere else. That’s exactly the kind of suspense swirling around one of the nation’s most coveted high school prospects — and Michigan is at the center of it. The Wolverines are making a serious push to flip an elite LSU commit who has recently expressed a strong affection for Ann Arbor and the maize and blue.

This recruiting battle is heating up, and Jim Harbaugh’s successor, Sherrone Moore, appears determined to make a statement early in his tenure by landing a top-tier commitment away from Brian Kelly and the Tigers.

Who Is the Player?

The recruit in question is Derek Meadows, a consensus five-star wide receiver out of Bishop Gorman High School in Las Vegas, Nevada. Meadows, standing 6-foot-5 and weighing in at 195 pounds, has been one of the most explosive playmakers in the 2025 recruiting class. His elite combination of size, speed, and hands has drawn comparisons to NFL stars like A.J. Green and Tee Higgins.

Meadows committed to LSU in March 2024, citing his close relationship with receivers coach Cortez Hankton and the Tigers’ history of developing wideouts for the NFL. However, in recent months, Michigan has not only re-entered the picture — they’ve become a serious threat.

“I love Michigan, man,” Meadows told reporters after a spring visit to Ann Arbor. “The tradition, the people, the coaching staff — it just feels like home every time I’m here.”

That quote alone was enough to send shockwaves through both fanbases. But now, with his commitment being actively challenged, it’s clear that Meadows’ recruitment is far from over.

Michigan’s Renewed Pursuit

Sherrone Moore and Michigan have identified Meadows as a potential program-changer — a rare receiver who could thrive in their evolving offensive scheme.

After the Wolverines lost several key playmakers to the NFL Draft and graduation, there’s a clear need for a new No. 1 option on the outside. Michigan has recruited well along the offensive line and in the backfield, but wide receiver has remained a position where they need more elite-level talent. Meadows would instantly change that.

Michigan wide receivers coach Ron Bellamy has been instrumental in this recruitment. A Michigan alumnus with deep ties to the state and the program, Bellamy has leveraged his NFL experience and relatable coaching style to connect with Meadows on a personal level.

Sources close to the program say Bellamy has made multiple visits to Las Vegas and maintained consistent communication with Meadows’ family. The Wolverines have also brought in current players and commits to engage with Meadows directly — a tactic that appears to be working.

“He’s definitely listening,” a source told 247Sports. “Derek hasn’t shut the door on Michigan, and they’re coming hard. It’s going to be a battle, but Michigan believes they’ve got a shot.”

Meadows’ Affinity for Michigan

What makes this situation so intriguing is that Meadows hasn’t tried to hide his interest in Michigan — not even after publicly committing to LSU. That’s rare for a top recruit and usually a sign that the commitment isn’t as solid as it seems.

Meadows has made two unofficial visits to Ann Arbor in the last six months, most recently during Michigan’s spring game in April. He was seen spending time with quarterback commit Carter Smith and offensive coordinator Kirk Campbell, soaking up the environment in front of a packed crowd.

Insiders say Meadows was “blown away” by the visit, praising Michigan’s player development, offensive innovation, and culture.

“They’re building something different here,” Meadows said after the spring game. “It’s not just about football — it’s about becoming a better man.”

That mindset aligns perfectly with the message Moore has been preaching since taking over the reins from Harbaugh: a holistic, player-first approach rooted in accountability, toughness, and growth.

The LSU Angle

Of course, flipping Meadows won’t be easy. LSU remains a formidable recruiting power, and Brian Kelly is no stranger to high-stakes battles. The Tigers have built a compelling case for Meadows, especially with their recent track record of putting receivers into the NFL (Justin Jefferson, Ja’Marr Chase, Terrace Marshall Jr., and Malik Nabers, to name a few).

Meadows has spoken highly of the LSU program and its staff. His relationship with Cortez Hankton continues to be a key component, and Baton Rouge’s SEC environment offers something that Michigan can’t replicate: consistent warm-weather football in the heart of college football’s most competitive conference.

Moreover, the NIL landscape favors LSU in many respects. Louisiana’s infrastructure and booster support have given the Tigers an edge in some high-profile recruiting battles, and it’s likely that NIL will factor into Meadows’ final decision.

Still, it’s telling that even with all of LSU’s advantages, Meadows continues to flirt with Michigan — even visiting in person and going on record with his feelings for the school.

What’s Next?

The real turning point in this recruitment could come this summer. Meadows is expected to take official visits in June, and Michigan has already locked in a date. If he shows up in Ann Arbor once again, this time for an official visit, it could be the moment where momentum truly shifts.

LSU is likely to get the final official visit in July — a strategic advantage. But Michigan believes they can make enough of an impression during their June weekend to either force a decommitment or keep the door open until National Signing Day.

There’s also buzz that Meadows could be in attendance for Michigan’s primetime showdown against Texas on September 6. If that happens, and the Wolverines can produce a dynamic offensive performance on a national stage, it could be the final push needed to tip the scales.

Impact of a Flip

Landing Derek Meadows would be the crown jewel of Michigan’s 2025 recruiting class.

The Wolverines are already building a strong foundation with four-star quarterback Carter Smith, top-100 offensive tackle Josh Tillman, and fast-rising tight end Noah Brinkley. Add Meadows to the mix, and suddenly Michigan’s offense looks explosive on paper — a far cry from the ground-and-pound identity they had for years.

Meadows would also send a message nationally. For years, Michigan has been viewed as a program that develops well but struggles to consistently win head-to-head battles for five-star skill talent. Flipping a top-tier SEC commit would change that perception overnight.

And for Sherrone Moore, it would be a defining moment — proof that Michigan remains a powerhouse on the recruiting trail under new leadership.

Final Thoughts

This recruitment is far from over, and LSU still holds the edge. But Michigan’s persistence, paired with Meadows’ deep admiration for the program, makes this one of the most compelling storylines in the 2025 recruiting cycle.

The Wolverines are playing the long game — one rooted in relationships, vision, and belief. If they can stay in the mix through the summer and land a crucial official visit, anything is possible.

As one insider put it: “This isn’t a done deal. Michigan’s in it — and they’re not backing down.”

In a sport defined by momentum and belief, that might be all the Wolverines need.

Recruiting Timeline for Derek Meadows