“After much thought and prayer about my future, I’ve decided to transfer from Michigan State University!” deWeaver posted.
“I want to thank Coach Dantonio, the coaching staff, my teammates, faculty, and the great fans in East Lansing for supporting me and giving me lasting memories that I’ll never forget! I’m looking forward to the challenges and goals that I have set high for myself! It was a blessing to grow and to be a part of Spartan Nation! My journey continues … #GoGreen.”
A 6-foot-4, 221-pound redshirt-freshman, deWeaver saw action in just two games this season. He was in for four plays against Ohio State at Columbus and was sacked three times after running for 20 yards. He also played at Rutgers on Nov. 25. He never threw a pass for MSU.
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That limited playing time coincided with Spartans sophomore Brian Lewerke excelling as a first-year QB starter. He accounted for more than 3,300 total yards and was key in MSU going 10-3 overall and tying for second with Penn State in the Big Ten East.
With Lewerke firmly entrenched, deWeaver’s prospect for future playing time with the Spartans was doubtful.
This news outlet has reached out to deWeaver for comment and more information. He did not indicate where he would transfer. If he goes to another NCAA Division I program, he would have to sit out another season and have just two seasons of eligibility remaining. Players are granted four seasons of eligibility in five years. A sixth year sometimes is granted because of an injury.
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In high school, deWeaver won the starting QB spot at Trotwood-Madison High School as a freshman and would be the starting QB in three state championship games, but not all with the Rams.
He was Trotwood's starting QB in consecutive Division II state title losses to Toledo Central Catholic (2012) and Akron St. Vincent-St. Mary's ('13) as a freshman and sophomore. As a junior he also was the QB of record in a D-II state semifinal setback to TCC. That 17-14 defeat would be his last with the Rams because he transferred to Wayne soon after.
Success followed deWeaver. The Warriors (14-1) couldn't close a perfect season, falling 45-35 to Lakewood St. Edward in a D-I state final. That was the end of one of the most successful QB runs in area high school history.
In four seasons as a high school starter, deWeaver played for teams that were a combined 49-9 and three state runner-ups. He completed 468 of 848 career passes (.551) for 7,624 yards, 90 touchdowns and 26 interceptions.
That vaulted him to four-star recruiting status by most services. He graduated early from Wayne and appeared destined to figure in the Spartans' offensive plans as a prized Ohio recruit. That took on extra significance because deWeaver had de-committed from rival Michigan when he transferred to Wayne . Now, he'll fulfill that promise elsewhere.
MESSIAH DEWEAVER
Michigan State stats
Wayne stats
2015: 166 of 280 passes; 2,924 yards, 32 TDs, 4 INTs; 14-1 record.
Trotwood-Madison stats
2014: 106 of 213 passes; 1,604 yards, 24 TDs, 9 INTs; 12-2 record.
2013: 137 of 231 passes; 2,265 yards, 21 TDs, 9 INTs; 11-3 record.
2012: 59 of 124 passes; 831 yards, 13 TDs 4 INTs; 12-3 record.
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