Cincinnati Football: Michael Taylor talks recent trip to Nippert Stadium

During the home opener on Saturday, the Bearcats hosted a ton of high level recruits including 2025 running back Michael Taylor. The Pickerington North product is a talented prospect that should pick up a scholarship offer from Cincinnati in the near future.

Even though it was a blowout win over Kennesaw State, the environment at Nippert Stadium was on display with several recruits on the sideline. Taylor discussed his recent visit in an interview with me.

"“Cincinnati loves their football and the coaches and recruiting coordinators do a good job of making sure everything is smooth and goes well. Nippert Stadium was loud and fun. The energy is great. I loved Cincinnati and I could definitely see myself playing there in the future. The coaches are really cool and are invested in their players, making sure they can get their players the best college experience and get them ready for the next level.”"

Cincinnati running backs coach Darren Paige should keep an eye on Taylor as his sophomore season at Pickerington North continues. Taylor has recorded 112 total yards and 92 rushing yards with 6.1 yards per carry in three appearances so far this year.

Cincinnati Football: Michael Taylor talks recent trip to Nippert Stadium

After competing in several camps this summer, the Ohio native earned an offer from Kentucky in June and has received interest from Cincinnati, Michigan State, Ohio State, Pittsburgh, Tennessee and others.

Despite being undersized, the 5’11 running back has a unique blend of power and speed that will certainly translate to the next level. Taylor is a physical ball carrier with an impressive ability to run downhill.

Pickerington North started the season with a pair of shutouts including a 53-0 win against Lancaster in late August. Taylor helped the team improve to 3-0 with a narrow win at Upper Arlington before losing to crosstown rival Pickerington Central last week.

Taylor and his teammates will look to bounce back at home tonight against Reynoldsburg. Pickerington North junior quarterback Landon O’Connell is also being recruited by the Bearcats’ coaching staff.

It’s still relatively early in his recruiting process and I’m sure more schools will get in the mix soon but Cincinnati should remain on his radar going forward. Taylor also offered an update on his recruitment.

"“I’ve been blessed to receive a scholarship offer from Kentucky and I’ve been in contact with a lot of schools. I’m excited to get to all of the schools that are interested in me to keep developing relationships with these coaches and schools. A few of my individual goals are to be the best running back that came through Pick North, to be a leader on and off the field, and to direct my teammates in the right way as an athlete and as a student.”"