Cass Tech’s David Dawson, a four-star Michigan-commit, tops the state’s 2013 talent at offensive guard. The 6-foot-5, 305-pound senior-to-be reportedly benches 325 pounds and runs a 5.4-second 40-yard dash. His 20-inch vertical leap is respectable, considering the fact that he’s a mammoth physical specimen.

However, Dawson isn’t the only talented guard in Michigan. While he is the best, there are others that are close to his level of athleticism. Dawson is the 2013 class’ eighth-ranked guard in the nation.

 

Dawson’s highlight tape

 

Cameron Dillard, Canton (Canton)

 

6-3, 285

 

Dillard, a three-star recruit, has given Florida a solid verbal commitment, according to Rivals.com. The 6-foot-3, 285-pound guard benches 315 pounds and runs the 40-yard dash in 5.5 seconds. He’s the 2013 class’ 19th-ranked guard in the country.

 

Dillard’s highlight tape

 

Nate Jeppesen, Portage Central (Portage)

 

6-4, 260

 

The three-star Toledo-commit can do it all on both sides of the ball. Jeppesen has the quickness to be an effective OL, but the strength and physical tools to be great on defense. He’s the 42nd-ranked guard in the country. He could easily be converted to another position in college, fully utilizing his athletic talent at various spots on the line.

 

Jeppesen’s highlight tape

 

Derek Edwards, Detroit Catholic Central (Novi)

 

6-5, 270

 

Another stout lineman from coach Tom Mach’s powerhouse program, Edwards has offers from Arizona, Central and Western Michigan, and Toledo. There were no reported 40-yard dash or bench maxes reported for Edwards, who is the 28th-ranked player in Michigan.

 

Vinnie Palazetti, Flint Powers Catholic (Flint)

 

6-4, 305

 

Palazetti has an offer from Buffalo, along with other MAC schools, and plans to make his decision this week. The three-star recruit put on 20 pounds in the offseason and will anchor the line of the defending state champion Chargers.

 

David Curle, Eisenhower (Shelby Twp.)

 

6-4, 275

 

The standout Eisenhower OL has offers from Central and Western Michigan. However, bench maxes and 40-yard dash times haven’t been reported as of late June.

 

Daniel Brown, Okemos (Okemos)

 

6-4, 288

 

Brown reportedly runs the 40-yard dash in 5.43 seconds and has a 27-inch vertical leap. He has interest from a handful of MAC schools.