Gatlin Bair discusses 'biggest thing' in Michigan, Oregon recruiting battle
Only two of the nation's top 125 prospects in the class of 2024 are uncommitted following the December early signing period.
The highest-rated undecided recruit in the country is Burley (Idaho) speedy wide receiver Gatlin Bair, who just misses five-star status as the nation's No. 36 recruit.
But while he isn't yet committed, the elite two-sport star - track and field and football - has a pretty clear idea of where he wants to go.
Bair is down to a final two of Michigan and Oregon, and seems to be waiting on a key factor before making a final decision in February.
"I think the biggest thing right now is coach (Jim) Harbaugh's contract," he said. "That's kind of why I'm stuck in the middle right now, just because i don't know what's happening there. I think, from what Coach Lanning has told me, he's going to be there for a long time. That's something i'm looking for... stability. it's hard to go to a program and have coaching changes."
Although Harbaugh's current deal runs through 2026, Michigan is seeking to extend its celebrated leader long into the future with a rumored 10-year deal at around $125 million, according to Football Scoop.
Bair will take a two-year LDS mission beginning February 19, where he will be in Dallas, Texas, so coaching stability takes on even greater significance in his recruitment.
He won't actually be a part of his chosen program for two years.
And, as college football fans know, a lot can change in that time.
"I'm trying to work toward a decision, and it's a difficult decision," he said.
Bair said he likes several factors with both programs.
Clearly Harbaugh's success stands out for the Wolverines, but so does their development of future NFL talent.
"I think everybody's thing is that Michigan develops guys so well," Bair said. "I think Coach Harbaugh is the best in the business. They're probably going to put 15-to-20 guys in the NFL this year. I think they are going to continue to do that year in, year out and they'll continue to be a perennial contender in the Big Ten."
As for Oregon, Bair sees a program that is putting up big-time numbers, and is ascending as it transitions into the Big Ten.
"Coach (Dan) Lanning is doing a phenomenal job and they are going to continue to progress," he said. "They are going to compete for the Big Ten championship soon... if not win it. What they are doing on offense right now is really impressive. Michigan does a better job of developing, but Oregon does a better job of offensive production."
In the end, however, the battle between Michigan and Oregon for the nation's top uncommitted prospect may come down to a coaching contract.
"I think the decision could be very impacted by what happens with Coach Harbaugh and his contract," Bair said.
