GVSU football adds Big Ten transfers to defense

Illinois quarterback Nathan Scheelhaase (2) is tackled by Indiana safety Shaquille Jefferson (35) during an NCAA college football game at Memorial Stadium in Bloomington, Ind., Saturday, Oct. 8, 2011.  (AP Photo/The Herald-Times, Chris Howell)

Chris Howell

Illinois quarterback Nathan Scheelhaase (2) is tackled by Indiana safety Shaquille Jefferson (35) during an NCAA college football game at Memorial Stadium in Bloomington, Ind., Saturday, Oct. 8, 2011. (AP Photo/The Herald-Times, Chris Howell)

Brady Fredericksen

The Grand Valley State University football team will add a bit of Big Ten flavor to the on-field mix this season. Scout.com’s Allen Trieu reports that Michigan State University defensive back Dana Dixon and Indiana University safety Shaquille Jefferson have transferred to GVSU.

A free safety and wide receiver from the class of 2009, Scout.com ranked Dixon as a three-star recruit when he committed to Michigan State out of high school.

The junior recorded just five tackles in two years as a defensive back at Michigan State. He was slated to make the transition from cornerback to wide receiver this season.

Jefferson, a two-star recruit by Scout.com, received offers from MAC schools like Central Michigan University before choosing Indiana in 2010. The sophomore saw playing time in the final five games of the 2011 season.

Both players will be eligible to play immediately after transferring to a school in a lower, NCAA division.

[email protected]