One of the top defensive linemen in Michigan has found his home.

Big Rapids High School’s Max Bollman is taking his talents to Oxford, Ohio, after committing to Miami University on Wednesday. Bollman becomes the first Cardinal to commit to a Division I NCAA football program since Braeden Childress (Central Michigan) in 2018.

According to Bollman, it was the coaching staff that stood out.

“Honestly, it was the people and the way it felt when I was there,” Bollman said. “The coaches made it feel real, the culture stood out, and it felt like the place I’m supposed to be. It felt like home.”

The 6-foot-2 Bollman was a force to be reckoned with for the Cardinals this past season. He recorded 13 sacks, 11 tackles for loss and 83 tackles and earned Division 4 all-state honors in his junior year. Bollman received more than 10 Division I college football offers but ultimately chose the RedHawks.

“It feels good for real,” Bollman said. “A lot of pressure is off now, and I can just lock in, keep working and get ready for what’s next.”

While Bollman hasn’t decided on a major yet, he aims to be as successful off the football field as on it.

“I just want to be successful, take care of my family and make the most out of every opportunity football gives me,” Bollman said.

The hard-working Big Rapids product with big goals has found his home in Oxford, Ohio.

The RedHawks went 7-7 last season and tied for second in MAC play. Miami has posted a winning season and earned a bowl appearance in six of the last seven seasons.

_{Graphic courtesy of Max Bollman.}