Lynn Bowden favoring Michigan State Spartans

Michigan State has jumped into the lead for one of the best Ohio has to offer in 2017.

Following his unofficial visit to East Lansing, four-star athlete Lynn Bowden is now favoring the Spartans. That's mainly due to Mark Dantonio offering Bowden a scholarship during his visit, something the Warren G. Harding star has been hoping to get for awhile.

Now, Scout.com recruiting analyst Bill Greene told The Detroit News that MSU is the "clear favorite" for Bowden, but does think a commitment won't come until Bowden takes an official visit to East Lansing.

"His coach thinks Michigan State is in the driver's seat right now," Greene said. "It's important for him to get back up to Michigan State for another visit so he can continue to get to know the staff better and vice-versa, and he should be up there again during the season."

Apparently, current Spartans running back LJ Scott may play a big role in getting Bowden to MSU.

Another factor is sophomore running back LJ Scott, who played his high school ball at nearby Hubbard and knows Bowden well.

Greene says that, combined with what Bowden saw of East Lansing on his visit, makes the odds likely that the Spartans will add a dangerous, unique playmaker to a growing cast of weapons.

"His decision might not be made this week, but I don't think it's going to be too much further down the road," Greene said. "I have Michigan State as the clear favorite."

The 247 Sports Crystal Ball also views MSU as a significant favorite for Bowden.

Almost every recruiting service has Bowden pegged as a four-star prospect, while 247 has him ranked 114th overall and No. 3 in the state of Ohio for 2017. He recently spoke with Green about how that offer from MSU affected his recruitment.

Greene also added the following on what Bowden would bring to the Spartans:

Even though the Warren Harding coaches had Bowden on a pitch count to save him for the upcoming season, the talent was once again evident. Bowden appears to have added muscle this year, and he was much more physical running the football. He still has the same speed and breakaway running ability, and is poised to have a big year. We still see Lynn Bowden as a slot receiver at the next level, and he's a player that needs the football in his hands.

I think we should expect Bowden to become a Spartan before the upcoming college football season ends.