Harbaugh: WR Drake Harris stars in Michigan camp
Ann Arbor – Receiver Drake Harris has been nagged by hamstring injuries the last two seasons, but it appears the Grand Rapids Christian alum is ready to make a grand entrance at Michigan.
Harris, the former No. 1 Detroit News Blue Chip player, has received high marks for his performance during the Wolverines’ preseason camp. Michigan is preparing for its season opener at Utah next Thursday, and Harris could very well be a big part of the offensive mix.
Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh, meeting with media on Thursday for the first time in three weeks since the start of camp, said he has high expectations for Harris, who battled hamstring injuries as a high school senior and last fall as a freshman at Michigan.
“Drake has done a really fine job,” Harbaugh said. “God willing and the creek don’t rise, you’ll see him Thursday night. He’s been really sharp. He’s been healthy, and he’s competed strong and good all camp.
“I’m excited about him every day. He’s one of those youngsters who really makes our football team better.”
Peppers as good as 'advertised'
Defensive back Jabrill Peppers missed all but three games last season as a freshman because of leg injuries and never got a chance to live up to the hype he arrived with as the top recruiting prospect in that class.
Peppers moved to safety from cornerback and is expected to be a vital cog in what is expected to be a solid defense.
“He’s been good,” Harbaugh said. “He’s been all the things that have been advertised about him. He’s a FOOTBALL player.”
Peppers is expected to return punts and Harbaugh has said he could play offense, as well. Harbaugh, asked Thursday about how much work Peppers could get on offense, was vague.
“That remains a possibility,” he said.
'Focus was tremendous'
Harbaugh said his team's focus was "tremendous" during August camp.
"We wanted them to and I think we did maximize every hour and every minute," he said. "I asked our team to work very hard and I can say that they did. The focus was tremendous."