When it comes to the 2027 recruiting class, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish enjoys a higher position at No.6 than the Michigan Wolverines, ranked No.12. However, the Wolverines picked up the momentum by defeating Marcus Freeman’s Notre Dame, landing a four-star defensive lineman. 

“BREAKING: Four-Star DL Xavier Muhammad has committed to Michigan, he tells me for @Rivals,” reported National Recruiting analyst Hayes Fawcett on May 14.

According to On3’s rankings, Xavier Muhammad is the No.10 defensive lineman with an overall ranking of No.102. 

The Houston, Texas recruit originally intended to wait until July 3 to reveal his commitment. Along with Notre Dame, he held offers from the Miami Hurricanes and the Vanderbilt Commodores, among others. But Michigan’s push this spring seems to have accelerated the commitment process. 

Following an offer from Larry Black in February, he visited Ann Arbor in April, and the experience reportedly resonated with him more than expected.

“My expectations, it blew up because it was low-key way more than I expected,” Muhammad told On3’s Ethan McDowell after that visit. “In person, everything’s bigger and everything. The staff, I love the coaching staff, everybody there.

Muhammad gives Michigan a fast and physical defender who can make an impact in the trenches. He explodes off the line, uses strong hand technique, and works his feet well to stop running plays.

Meanwhile, it’s the second defeat for Notre Dame against Michigan in the recruitment race. 

Notre Dame Missed Another Key Target Against the Michigan Wolverines

Michigan and Notre Dame were running the race for the 2027 wide receiver Quentin Burrell, along with programs like the Missouri Tigers and Arizona State Sun Devils. On May 13, Fawcett confirmed Burrell’s commitment to Kyle Whittingham’s program. 

A visit from Micah Simon and Jason Beck last week played a major role in securing Burrell’s commitment. As he made the decision, he is now Michigan’s first 2027 wide receiver pledge.

Maize n Brew evaluated Burrell’s junior film and offseason 7-on-7 highlights, giving a detailed look at his potential. He brings a lengthy upper frame, solid arm length, and a strong football IQ that stands out in his route running.

When it comes to his hands, Burrell consistently shows he can make catches on the move and be counted on in scoring situations. His numbers over the last three years are highlighted by a 67-reception, 1,139-yard junior season.

Muhammad and wide receiver Burrell both committed to Michigan during the week of May 11, giving the Wolverines two new 2027 pledges.

Share your thoughts on Michigan’s back-to-back recruiting wins against Notre Dame.

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Written by

Soheli Tarafdar

Edited by

Soheli Tarafdar