We have seen this before. This one’s a classic. Just ask Brian Kelly. Sherrone Moore has already proven he can walk into SEC territory and pull out a generational quarterback. The ‘battle for Bryce Underwood’ that took place on 21 Nov. 2024 was one of the most heated recruiting wars in recent memory, with Michigan ultimately winning over LSU for the No. 1 quarterback in the 2025 class. But Moore isn’t satisfied with just one coup—he’s back in Louisiana, looking to flip another five-star signal-caller that LSU is banking on for its future. And just like last time, the Wolverines have a legitimate shot at pulling off the heist.

The thing is, you can’t bribe the QB1 spot at Ann Arbor with $10 million. Therefore, Moore’s prized OC coach Chip Lindsey expects an intense QB1 battle between Mikey Keene (Fresno State transfer), Bryce Underwood, and Jadyn Davis in the spring practices. You can add a cameo of Elijah Haven to that. The No. 1 overall player in the 2027 class and a dual-sport phenom who is just as lethal on the hardwood being a top-five basketball recruit in the state as well, is under center. The Tigers have been the presumed favorite, given that Haven plays just miles away from Death Valley at The Dunham School in Baton Rouge.

But that hasn’t stopped the maize and blue from making a full-court press for the dynamic playmaker. What’s more, Sherrone Moore and new offensive coordinator Chip Lindsey have an ace up their sleeve—a pre-existing connection that could tilt this recruitment in their favor. Haven’s high school coach, Neil Weiner, recently acknowledged that Michigan remains high on his list despite the local pressure to stay home.

“Coach Lindsey watched him play basketball. He and Elijah have stayed in contact recently, with plans for Elijah to get on campus for spring practices,” a Michigan journalist posted on X. That’s not just casual interest; that’s strategic persistence. It’s clear Michigan is making Haven a priority, and considering how they maneuvered to land Underwood, LSU has every reason to be concerned. Statistically, Haven has already separated himself from his peers. As a freshman starter, he threw for 2,205 yards and a school-record 35 touchdowns while rushing for 641 yards and another 12 scores, leading his team to an 8-3 record and a District 6-2A title.

He was named All-District Offensive MVP, All-Metro 1st Team, and All-State, proving that his talent isn’t just hype—it’s real, and it’s translating to wins. But what makes his recruitment even more complicated is his status as a basketball star, having earned All-District MVP honors in his sophomore season. If Michigan is successful, it wouldn’t just be another five-star quarterback stolen from LSU—it would be a statement that Moore and his staff are building something that even SEC talent is willing to leave home for.

But Kelly and LSU aren’t going down without a fight. Just like billionaire Larry Ellison’s investment helped secure Underwood’s commitment to Michigan, Louisiana backers have already started moving the chess pieces to keep Haven in-state.

LSU is not backing down in this Haven battle, even with Sherrone Moore in the mix

Brian Kelly and LSU aren’t just rolling over in the race for Elijah Haven—far from it. After learning their Bryce Underwood mistake, Louisiana’s heavy hitters are making moves to keep their in-state talent, Haven, in-state.

The five-star QB has already made multiple game-day visits to Death Valley, soaking in the energy of Tiger Stadium. But he’s also been weighing his options, taking trips to Alabama and other top programs. On the field, it’s a full-on recruiting war. Off the field? The chess game is just as intense, and Louisiana-based boosters are playing to win.

Case in point: Haven just inked a major NIL deal with New Orleans-based Matt Bowers Auto Group, a move that speaks volumes about his rising star power. Matt Bowers, CEO of the company, had nothing but praise for the young passer. “Elijah is not only an exceptional athlete but also a person who embodies the values of hard work, integrity, and community involvement,” Bowers said. “This partnership is more than just an endorsement—it’s about elevating Elijah’s voice and using our platform to celebrate his achievements and future potential.”

Think a high schooler can make waves? This unique partnership is about to prove it. How about boosting brand image and community ties, all in one go? This early NIL deal is a major power move and perfect for one of the nation’s top prospects. Clearly, the stakes are rising. And you know LSU is not gonna give up, and neither are Sherrone Moore and crew.