Washington 2017 LB Markus Sullivan gives Details on Portland State Commitment

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @HogManInLA

The football staff for Portland State has to feel great about their recruiting efforts heading into National Signing Day 2017. The Big Sky Conference squad just got a big steal out of the state of Washington instantly adding a dynamic playmaker on defense in linebacker Markus Sullivan.

What more could the Vikings coaching staff ask for in a linebacker than what Sullivan brings with him to the field? The 6-4, 225 pound, standout had done just about everything possible for his Henry M. Jackson High School squad coming up with 111 tackles, 15 tackles for a loss, three forced fumbles, and four blocked kicks in 2015 and ended his senior campaign with 119 tackles, 16 tackles for a loss, two forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, two interception, and five passes broken up. He also lined up at tight end aiding in the Timberwolves 6-4 finish in 2016 earning first team All-Conference honors at both tight end and linebacker and made first team All-Area at linebacker.

The recruiting spotlight may not be the brightest in Mill Creek, but Sullivan did his best to draw attention to the town of about 20,000. Offers came in from Hawaii, Montana State, and Northern Iowa along with a preferred walk-on offer from in-state powerhouse Washington. In the end, Sullivan decided the Division-I route on the FCS level with Portland State was what was best for him going forward.

In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I sat down with Sullivan after his commitment on Monday to get the inside scoop on how the Vikings staff stole him away from other Division-I programs.

Interview

Markus, in general, how did you narrow down your schools?

“Being close to home was important. I was trying to decide about going to school in a college town or a in a bigger city. I was most familiar between Montana State and Portland State after taking unofficial visits to both schools. After I took my official to Portland State over the weekend, I felt like that was home. I cancelled my official to Montana State for next weekend and committed to Portland State.”

What all did you do during your official visit to Portland State?

“We ate a lot. Around 7:30 we had a night out with a player who was our host. They showed us around. They showed us what the dorm life was like and what there is to do there. They took us to nice restaurants and we had a good time.”

What was the recruiting process like for you with Portland State?

“It was good. They were hands on with me. They let me know how much time I had to make a decision. They gave me a lot of time, which was great. Their linebacker coach got another coaching opportunity and went to San Jose State. Then I started talking to Coach (Malik) Roberson, their defensive coordinator. I appreciated how hands on he was and how honest they were with me throughout the recruiting process.”

Which position are they recruiting you to play?

“Linebacker but I’m not sure about inside or outside. I might rush the edge some too.”

What is the Vikings base defense?

“I think they are changing it this year. I am excited to figure it out.”

You took your official, you’ve enjoyed your process with the coaches, and it is close to home, what else helped sell you on Portland State?

“I really liked the coaches. When I met all the other players, they have all really bought in and enjoy the campus, school, and football program at Portland State. They all seemed very committed to what they are doing.”

How did the commitment take place?

“It was the day after my official, yesterday (Monday). I called Coach Roberson and told him I was committing. He told me to call Coach (Bruce) Barnum (head coach).”

What was the reaction of Coach Roberson when you told him?

“They were pretty happy, both of them. They said ‘congrats and welcome to the family.’ I was the only true linebacker they offered.”

How did you feel at that moment when you verbally committed?

“I felt pretty good and excited. I was relieved to have the recruiting process over. I was relieved and excited at the same time.”

Are you going to take any other official visits?

“No. I just had the Montana State official scheduled but I cancelled it.”

Do you plan on recruiting other players to join you?

“I probably will be. Most of the recruits on my official had already committed. I’ll contact some if the coaches need me to.”

What did you do to celebrate your commitment?

“I had dinner with my family.”

Markus, thanks for your time and congratulations again on your commitment to Portland State.

“Thank you.”

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Photo credit: Sullivan family; Markus Sullivan (back-right) with Portland State recruits.

Photo credit: Sullivan family; No. 25 Markus Sullivan with Portland State recruits.