Class of 2027 IOL Tristan Dare Commits to Michigan over Ohio State, Penn State, and Oklahoma
In a major recruiting win for the Michigan Wolverines, Class of 2027 interior offensive lineman Tristan Dare has officially committed to play for the Maize and Blue. Dare, a 6-foot-4, 290-pound powerhouse from Southlake, Texas, made his announcement via social media and in an exclusive statement to Rivals, where he revealed his decision to join the Wolverines over several national powerhouses including Ohio State, Penn State, and Oklahoma.
“The Leaders and Best 〽️ Go Blue! 2 Corinthians 12:10,” Dare wrote in his commitment post, referencing the Bible verse that reads, “For when I am weak, then I am strong.”
The announcement immediately sent shockwaves across the college football recruiting world, as Dare had been one of the most sought-after interior linemen in the country. Rated as a top-100 national prospect by several major recruiting services, his decision to commit to Michigan cements the Wolverines’ reputation as an elite program for offensive line development.
A Texas Star Heads North
Hailing from the football-rich state of Texas, Dare has been a dominant presence on the offensive line at Southlake Carroll High School — a program renowned for producing Division I talent and NFL-caliber athletes. Even as an underclassman, Dare stood out due to his combination of strength, footwork, and football IQ.
College coaches were impressed not just by his size and physicality, but also by his leadership qualities and academic performance. Dare received offers from more than 20 schools, but ultimately narrowed his choices to four: Michigan, Ohio State, Penn State, and Oklahoma.
Despite growing up deep in Big 12 and SEC territory, Dare was consistently drawn to Michigan’s tradition, coaching staff, and track record of success in producing top-tier offensive linemen.
“Michigan stood out from the start,” Dare told Rivals. “The way they develop linemen, the culture, and the chance to play for a program that lives out being ‘the Leaders and Best’ — it all just clicked with me.”
Sherrone Moore’s Impact
Michigan head coach Sherrone Moore, formerly the offensive line coach and offensive coordinator, played a critical role in Dare’s recruitment. Moore’s reputation for developing NFL-ready linemen — including 2023 first-rounders like Olusegun Oluwatimi and others — has made Ann Arbor a destination for offensive line talent.
According to sources close to the recruitment, Moore and Dare built a strong relationship early, with the head coach frequently flying to Texas to see Dare and his family.
“Coach Moore made me feel like a priority. He wasn’t just recruiting me as a player — he was investing in me as a person,” Dare said. “That meant a lot to my family and me.”
A Boost for Michigan’s 2027 Class
Dare’s commitment gives Michigan its first major offensive line pledge in the 2027 cycle and provides early momentum in what the Wolverines hope will be a top-tier national recruiting class. Michigan has increasingly looked to expand its national footprint, and Dare’s decision signals that the staff can successfully pull elite talent out of traditional SEC or Big 12 strongholds.
Recruiting analysts have already begun comparing Dare to former Wolverines like Cesar Ruiz and David Baas — players who combined technical polish with raw power and versatility.
“He’s a cornerstone piece — the type of lineman you build a championship-caliber offensive line around,” said a Rivals recruiting expert. “Michigan just got significantly better in the trenches.”
Spiritual Foundation and Family Support
Throughout his recruiting process, Dare has been open about his Christian faith, often quoting scripture and leaning on his beliefs when making life decisions. His commitment message included a quote from 2 Corinthians 12:10, highlighting his emphasis on humility and strength through adversity.
“My faith grounds me,” Dare said. “When things get overwhelming — whether it’s recruiting, training, or school — I turn to the Lord for direction. This decision was made through a lot of prayer and reflection.”
His family has also been a central force in his development, with Dare frequently crediting his parents and coaches at Southlake Carroll for shaping his path both on and off the field.
What Comes Next
With his commitment locked in, Dare plans to focus on his high school development and prepare to join Michigan as an early enrollee in January 2027. He’s expected to return to Ann Arbor for several unofficial visits during the upcoming fall season and has already begun recruiting other top 2027 talents to join him in the maize and blue.
“I’m locked in,” Dare said. “Now it’s about getting better every day, representing my school and family, and doing everything I can to help Michigan win when I get there.”
The Wolverines are gaining not just a physically gifted lineman but a mature, disciplined leader who already exemplifies the values Michigan football is built upon. For a fanbase known for its passion and pride, Tristan Dare’s decision is more than a recruiting victory — it’s a glimpse of a powerful future.
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