Father of Michigan four-star EDGE commit Elias Rudolph now ‘bleeds maize and blue’

George Lisembee stood directly behind four-star EDGE commit Elias Rudolph while the new Michigan commit announced his decision in front of the Cincinnati (Ohio) Taft building Monday. 

Decked out in a Michigan headband, 2022 women’s gymnastics national championship t-shirt and plaid pajama pants, Lisembee made no effort to hide his excitement. But that was expected from the father of someone who will continue his college career with the Wolverines. 

“Proud is an understatement,” Lisembee told The Wolverine. “Elias doesn’t have to be in these streets anymore. I’m electrified. It’s amazing. It really feels like I’m dreaming. It’s amazing.”

Rudolph committed to Michigan after two offseason trips to Ann Arbor, including an official visit made on June 9th. Choosing the Wolverines over other notable offers from Miami, Pitt and Ohio State, Rudolph becomes the fifth junior from the state of Ohio to represent U-M’s 2024 recruiting class. 

At 6-foot-3, 200 pounds, Rudolph is also the 15th four-star who Michigan has picked up this cycle.

“Michigan just seemed more genuine and I truly felt it there more than any other school that I visited,” Lisembee said. “Michigan just stood out because there was something about them. But I’m not going to do the four years so this was all Elias’ decision. But Michigan stood out tremendously.” 

Lisembee went on the official visit with Rudolph and other family members four weeks ago. When touring the facilities and meeting the coaching staff, all of it impressed Lisembee. 

“Michigan felt very family-oriented,” Lisembee said. “I love all of the coaches. (Steve) Clinkscale, (Dylan) Roney, (Mike) Elston, (Jesse) Minter and (Jim) Harbaugh. Everyone was very genuine. They told me that I have an outstanding son and that they would love the opportunity to coach him.”

As a self-proclaimed former Ohio State fan, Lisembee said he’s transformed because he never saw the other side until visiting Michigan with his son and developing personal relationships with the staff. 

“I used to bleed red, now I bleed maize and blue (laughs),” Lisembee said. “(Michigan fans should expect) nothing but excellence from Elias. He’s going to work hard and do his best to perfect every day and every play.”

Rudolph is listed as the No. 304 overall prospect and No. 21 EDGE in the country, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media services. He’s also the No. 46 junior in the state of Florida.

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