An Interview with Kenny Wilkins

Maize and Blog is once again delighted to bring you an interview with a class of 2010 football recruit, this time with Kenny Wilkins, a 4* defensive end from Trinity HS in Washington, Pennsylvania. Trinity has also produced players like OSU's Andrew Sweat, and Kenny has been described by his coach as an even better physical prospect. Kenny talked to Maize and Blog Special Recruiting Contributor and Rivals.com correspondent Lauren Winfrey about the OSU game, why he chose Michigan, and what he expects to play for the Wolverines.

Lauren: Did you attend the Ohio State game Saturday? How do you feel about the loss? Did you think we were going to win?

Kenny: Yes I was at the game, and I feel like it was the best we’ve played all year. We made some mistakes on offense, but of course I thought we had a really good chance of winning. I feel like you can never doubt a team’s abilities. There’s always a chance you can win a game. Plus it was their senior show so spirits were high, I honestly thought we had a chance.

L: How did your season go on a personal note? What areas of your game did you improve upon and which areas do you see yourself needing to improve in the future?

K: Our record this season was 6/5. We made the play offs, but we lost in the first round. I was really sick so I wasn’t able to finish out the season, or play in the playoff game. On a personal note I had a disappointing season. We expected more of ourselves. We expected to win more games, but I did have fun playing my last year of high school football. [As far as improvements go] I know I have to get bigger, faster, and stronger. I need to improve on all levels to compete with the best players in college football.

L: Are you planning on enrolling early?

K: Actually I can’t [enroll early] because I have to take another math class so I’ll just be coming to campus in June, but I’m definitely excited to come.

L: What made you choose Michigan, especially after the struggles of last year?

K: Going to Michigan has been kind of a dream for me. I’ve wanted to play there since I was six. The coaches are really nice too, and the program’s just a good program overall.

L: You're a pretty versatile defensive player. Where have the Michigan coaches talked to you about playing? Do you think you’ll be stepping in right away and contributing as a freshman?

K: The coaches told me that most likely I’ll be playing defensive end. I played liner backer and defensive in high school. I’m unsure about redshirting. The coaches told me to be ready to play because there is space for me to play if I show them that I’m good enough. I guess it all depends on how well I do this summer and at camp.

L: Do Michigan's struggles this year have any impact on your recruitment? What kind of season are you hoping for next year?

K: Michigan’s struggles haven’t had a negative impact on my recruiting because I’ve always wanted to go there. I think kids go where they feel comfortable. I think it has little to do with how well the team is doing, especially if it’s a school with an established program. I think next year will be great. Each year coach Rod keeps improving, and it takes time to take a team to the next level like he’s trying to do.

L: Are there any other recruits that you talk to that Michigan is trying to secure a commitment from? How much of a recruiting role do you personally play?

K: I’ve talked to kids like Cullen Christian. I think me talking to him kinda helps because it’s always good to look at things from another person’s perspective.

L: For Michigan fans concerned about the defensive recruiting this year i.e. fewer high rated players than usual, what do you think of the recruiting services? Do you think too much attention is paid to the star rankings in general?

K: I don’t really worry about rankings. For some kids it is a big deal to be ranked highly, but not for me because I know what I can do and I know no matter what I do I’m gonna work hard.