Years before Michael Love drew recruiting attention from college football coaches, he impressed someone who knows a bit about college football.
That would be his older brother, All-American cornerback Julian Love of Notre Dame. Julian Love became one of the best defensive backs in the country by studying the tendencies of the wide receivers he faced.
And that includes his younger brother.
“I think, in my heart, I’ve always seen the potential in him,” Julian Love said. “He always had the tools. It was just a matter of time before he used them. This past spring is when I really saw him perfect his craft and completely dominate.”
Division I football programs took notice, too. Michael Love committed to Bowling Green in June.
“What makes him a special receiver is his pure athleticism and route running,” Julian Love added. “I was never as athletic as Michael. He can run, jump and compete with the best of them. His hands are pure as a catcher and he just knows how to ball.”
That’s a pretty significant endorsement considering Julian Love was a four-star recruit and led Nazareth to back-to-back state championships. He tallied 68 tackles and and three interceptions for the Fighting Irish last season.
Michael Love, who is listed at 5-foot-10 and 170 pounds, is slated to play slot receiver in college. Love said he chose the Falcons over offers from Northern Illinois, Western Kentucky, Minnesota State and Western Illinois.
Michael Love said he’s a different player with a different personality than his older brother. He said he’s dealt with the pros and cons of having an older brother playing college football at the highest level.
“He might be faster in the long run, but I know that I’m quicker,” Michael Love said. “(Julian) would get me in 40 (yards), but I would beat him in the first 20. Julian really helped me a lot, especially when I was younger and also with my recruiting.
“But I’m trying to be my own player. I’m very motivated. A lot of people think since I’m not that tall that I can’t play. I have a ton of heart and play and believe in myself.”
Julian Love added that it’s a special time in the Love household with another player set to play college football.
“He has worked so hard for all that he has gotten, and nothing was handed to him by any means,” Julian Love said. “He deserves this.”
After catching 34 passes for 540 yards and rushing for 76 yards for the 12-2 Roadrunners last season, Michael Love remained overlooked despite his family background and success playing for a notable program. Love, who also starts at defensive back, had a stellar showing in the Class 6A title-game loss to Prairie Ridge. He hauled in a 30-yard touchdown reception to end with six catches for 121 yards and four tackles.
Nazareth coach Tim Racki has coached both Love brothers. He’s also seen his fair share of talented athletes and has won six state championships between Nazareth and Addison Driscoll.
“Michael is an unbelievable, versatile athlete,” Racki said. “People seem to always talk about size in football, but when you watch Michael play football, he’s incredible as far as his versatility. He can be a quarterback, slot (receiver), cornerback or safety. The problem with college football is they all look at size.
“The kid is fast and can just play football. Michael wants to show people that he’s good, too. We always wondered why he wasn’t getting more offers. Bowling Green is getting a special player with great talent.”