Notre Dame will host several Michigan prospects across the 2018 and 2019 classes today during the annual Blue-Gold Game.
One of those players is making his second trip to South Bend this month — Walled Lake (Mich.) Western 2019 offensive tackle Spencer Brown.
“My expectations are to get to know the coaches a little bit more, build those relationships, see how they coach and run things,” Brown said. “I want to see the expectations they have for their players, how the players and really just getting a feel for the university so I can myself in their shoes.”
The 6-foot-6, 265-pounder enjoyed his first time at Notre Dame earlier this month as he got a more in-depth look at the program.
“I learned that they have expectations for their players to be more than football players, but to be great people,” Brown explained. “It’s different from other universities. Not only do you represent the football, you represent yourself, other players, the coaches and the culture.
“It’s just different there. Grades are also a big thing as well. When you go there it’s not just for football and it’s about life after football. That’s what I like about the program. It’s just an all-around program with life and sports.”
Brown was able to speak a little with defensive line coach Mike Elston during his trip.
“Our conversation went well,” Brown said. “He said he really liked me and my size. He could see me playing there at Notre Dame. He liked my film and he wants me to come down there for a camp, the spring game and just see my face to keep building that relationship. I’m going to keep doing that.”
Being at Notre Dame made quite the impression on Brown the first go-around.
“I really like Notre Dame. They’re up on my list because of the academics and the football program. I kind of like that they are not in their own conference. They don’t play for conference championships, they play for a national championship. My interest level is high because of how they handle their program as young men, the coaches are leaders and the culture is down to earth.”
So far Brown has snagged offers from Iowa State, Western Michigan. Toledo, Ball State and Bowling Green.
“It would mean everything to me to get an offer from Notre Dame because of that level of a Power Five program. A lot of big name players have played there like Jerome Bettis. To say I earned an offer from that type of school would mean the world to me. Not even as a football player, it means I’m an intellectual person. They don’t offer just anyone. So, it would be I’m a great all-around person and player.”
Brown said the Notre Dame staff wants him to camp at Irish Invasion this summer. Brown has also made trips to Indiana and Purdue this month.
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