For the latest Hawkeye football recruit, it’s gotta be the shoes.

Ruben Lile used a creative method on Aug. 27 to declare his college choice. The Detroit native donned a pair of custom cleats in Cass Tech High’s season-opener that read “Future Hawkeye.”

Lile, a 6-3, 200-pounder, is listed as a three-star athlete and the 10th-best recruit in the state of Michigan by Rivals. He plays defensive back and wide receiver for the Technicians, and he recorded 46 catches for 460 yards and four touchdowns — along with 42 tackles and two interceptions — as a junior in 2010.

“Ruben puts his size to good use, catches the ball with his hands and at its highest point, and shows a very good vertical, timing, and anticipation,” MaxPreps.com’s Tom Lemming wrote. “He also has the speed to run with the swiftest of defenders, does a great job of putting his body between the ball and the defender, and can create after the catch.”

His prep teammate, linebacker Laron Taylor, committed to Iowa earlier this month.

Lile also received offers from Purdue and Wisconsin, among other schools.

— by Jordan Garretson