Brandon Lane and MSU mutually decided to part ways. This unexpected twist leaves the DT room back where it started after Barrow and Harmons' exit, looking bleak. It was only six days ago that the fan base was partially set at ease after both returning starters at DT hit the portal, and Lane committed to fill the gap. Now we are back at square one, in a desperate spot to find starting DT talent in a portal that is drying up.
Earlier this week Geno VanDeMark, the projected starting RG, entered the portal. This was seemingly fueled by trying to increase his NIL fund. Justin Thind reported he was highly compensated, if not overpaid, for his production. So good luck trying to find a "salary" match, let alone a raise. VanDeMark started 8 games in the last two years, with 275+ snaps in 2023. He has two years of eligibility. While I'd say he's only an "ok" player, we know what he is, and he raises the floor of the room with his experience. His departure makes a thin room even thinner...
Luckily, we had some good news today. Andrew Dennis, the former MSU commit, turned Fighting Illini, entered the portal after his Spring practice in Champaign. Dennis is technically now part of the incoming freshman class, albeit with a little college practice seasoning. The desire to be closer to home was the number one factor.
Out of high school, Dennise was ranked a 4-star recruit, ranked 162 nationally, and a top 10 offensive line prospect. It's worth noting, that the Illinois Spring depth chart listed Dennis at Center. At 6-5 / 275, original projections had him at guard or tackle. We are set for the year at Center with transfer Tanner Miller. The Guard position is pretty thin and inexperienced, with potential new starters in Gavin Broscious and Kris Philips. As well as a veteran player transferring in, in Luke Newman. But temper expectations for Newman as he is transferring up a level after playing at Holy Cross.
Dennise now rejoins a deep OL freshman class, making it 6 total. For perspective, the former staff took 3 OL HS recruits in '23; only one is still with the team. They took 4 in '22, and three are still with the team. And 4 in '21, only one is still with the team. While 4 is an okay number of OL HS recruits to bring in, it was only supplemented by 2 portal OL transfers —one was a bust, the other wildly inconsistent. And the hit rate for the OL recruits brought in was low. Clearly, the new staff wanted to correct this. While I don't expect 6 OL HS recruits every year, I think 4 is likely the typical amount we will see, in addition to portal adds.
Lastly, I don't think they are done adding to the OL or DL via the portal. We have plenty of scholarships available. We don't want to be 1-2 injuries away from using true freshmen who haven't been through the weight training program or walk-ons.
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