Jim Harbaugh to four-star WR Nico Collins: We need a big guy

Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh's made his final pitch to four-star receiver Nico Collins in Pinson, Ala.

According to AL.com, Harbaugh explained how the 6-foot-5 Collins could make a significant difference in the U-M passing game.

"He told me they use a lot of spread next year and he's saying I can be that X-position (outside receiver) and be a main factor," he told the site.

U-M hasn't run much spread offense in Jim Harbaugh's first two years but the addition of passing game coordinator Pep Hamilton may be part of a change.

Having quarterback Wilton Speight's experience may be a chance to open up the offense as well.

Many of the positions around him are open, including all three receivers with seniors Amara Darboh and Jehu Chesson departing.

"They need that 6-foot-5 receiver," Collins said. "They have a lot of shifty, slot receivers, but need a big guy."

Harbaugh visited him at his school, Clay-Chalkville, and at his house.

Collins declared Michigan his leader to the Free Press, among others, in the summer at The Opening.

He will take his final official visit this weekend to Georgia. LSU and Alabama are also in the mix.

He plans to announce on National Signing Day.

After visiting Collins in Pinson, Ala. and running back commit Kurt Taylor in Covington, Ga., Harbaugh saw commit James Hudson in Toledo in the evening, capping the three-state, three-prospect day.

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Contact Mark Snyder: msnyder@freepress.com. Follow him on Twitter @mark__snyder . Download our Wolverines Xtra app for free on Apple and Android devices!