Ovie Oghoufo chooses Notre Dame because of connections

Farmington Harrison linebacker Ovie Oghoufo became the first player in the state of Michigan from the class of 2018 to make a verbal commitment when he committed to Notre Dame on Friday. The 6’3, 207-pounder is slated to play mostly outside linebacker for the Irish, but has the capability to grow into roles at safety or even on the defensive line.

“It just felt right. I felt that Notre Dame gives me the best opportunities to achieve all my goals athletically as well as academically,” Oghoufo said following his commitment.

What stood out about Notre Dame to the incoming junior?

“Definitely the connections you get. You meet people that turn four year relationships into 40 year relationships,” Oghoufo said.

Oghoufo joins Khalid Kareem, also of Harrison, and Daelin Hayes, of Ann Arbor Skyline, who both signed with the Irish in the class of 2016.

Relationships build with head coach Brian Kelly and defensive coordinator Brian VanGorder helped make Notre Dame the perfect fit for Oghoufo.

“I have great relationships with the coaches and players,” Oghoufo said.

Oghoufo received 17 offers overall which included both in-state schools, Michigan and Michigan State.