The Unofficial Visitor

AC100 On Campus: Russell Shepard

2008-06-17T12:55:00.003-05:00

The first in a two part series on the LSU quarterback of the future is up on the AthlonSports.com website.

He will need to add some weight if he expects to play duel-threat QB in the SEC but he certainly has the speed and explosion to cut it.

Throwing the football, he has some room for impovement. The deep pass needs some work. However, the intermediate throws - digs, crosses, slants, posts etc - are all on the money. He has enough zip to play QB on the next level.

No matter where he plays, he will be a dynamic athlete.

Russell Shepard Video: Part 1

Early Signing Period?

2008-06-07T00:30:00.002-05:00

G.J. Kinney is a quarterback for the Tulsa Golden Hurricane. Kinney committed to the Baylor Bears prior to his senior season. He signed with the Texas Longhorns on signing day 2007.

Kinney sat on the sideline as he reshirted his freshman year in Austin. He then decided to transfer to Tulsa and will sit out this season as well. If there had been an early signing period for football prospects, like there is for basketball players, he would be challenging for the starting job at Baylor this fall instead of sitting out for the second consecutive season.

Kinney is just one of many players who have been caught up in the recruiting dominoes game. In 2007 they fell as follows: John Brantley (Ocala, Fla.) decommitted from Texas and switched to Florida. The Longhorns then, because they missed out on their first choice, offered Kinney, who then decommitted from Baylor to sign with Texas.

It was a lose-lose. Kinney lost his chance to play. Baylor lost their potential quarterback of the future. The Texas Longhorns were indifferent.

This entire fiasco could have been avoided had Kinney had the opportunity to sign his Letter of Intent (LOI) during an early signing day.

The majority of the coaches in the SEC think so too.

During the SEC spring meetings in Destin, Fla., nine of the 12 head coaches voted in favor of a 24-hour early signing day in late November — right before the contact period would begin. Unlike most rules within the recruiting realm, this one would actually benefit both the kids and the coaches.

It’s a win-win.

Florida’s Urban Meyer, Arkansas’ Bobby Petrino and South Carolina’s Steve Spurrier voted against the proposal.

Currently, recruits must wait and sign during a signing period that begins on the first Wednesday of February and ends in April. With the rare Terrelle Pryor exception, recruits sign their LOI on Signing Day.

It is an arbitrary date.

The recruiting calendar has been sped up so much by the proliferation of recruiting coverage on all fronts. Independent film companies, online recruiting coverage and the need to be the first coaching staff to offer a scholarship has stretched what used to be a couple month process into a multi-year process.

The Texas Longhorns had 17 commitments for the class of 2009 before the end of March 2008. Even though the trend to decommit has increased in recent years, a great majority of commitments stick. So why do they need to wait nearly a full calendar year to sign?

Recruits that have decided on where they are headed to school will have the opportunity to get the process over earlier. It is not intended to help those that are uncertain of their decision. The high school prospects are not required to sign on the proposed early day. If they are unsure and still need time to visit other campuses, they can still do so and subsequently sign in February.

This eliminates numerous headaches and saves money for all parties involved. Players will not be constantly hounded by poaching coaches, which generally means classroom and dinner table interruptions. Coaches will not have to deal with baby-sitting 30-something 17-year old kids for two months, which generally means superfluous spending of thousands of dollars.

Vanderbilt head coach Bobby Johnson voted in favor of an early signing day saying, “This is for the guys that know. They’ve already been to two junior days. They’ve already been to camps. They’ve been on unofficial visits. They’ve been to two or three games. They know whether they want to sign or not. They don’t have to sign…We do not have to go and spend thousands of dollars going to see them (recruits) every week.”

It also sheds some light onto the recruiting process for both coaches and players. Coaches lie to recruits. Recruits lie to coaches. It is unfortunate but undeniable. With recruiting classes being partially finalized earlier, players will have a better feel for what the depth chart looks like.

On the flip side, coaches really have no idea what is going on inside a 17-year-old’s head. In fact, most 17-year-old kids do not know what is going on inside their own heads. With prospects putting pen to paper earlier, coaches will know exactly who is available to be recruited and who is off the market.

There is one small caveat, however.

“The stipulation is that you can't take an official visit,” Johnson said. “If you are not sure, take your time. Take your visits. But then you have to sign in February.”

If a recruit were to take an official visit prior to the proposed signing day in November, he would then be ineligible to sign until the normal signing day in February. It becomes the coaching staff’s responsibility to actually turn down an official visit from a recruit if he is interested in signing early.

The SEC athletic directors and presidents must first sign off on the proposal before they can submit it on a national level (which, of course, would take another approval). Athletic directors, coaches and presidents from around the nation would then need to accept and likely tweak the proposal prior to it going into effect. If it were to be approved, the early signing period is not likely to go into effect until fall of 2009.

There is no telling how the national landscape of coaches will react. Last year at the SEC spring meetings, the same coaches - with a few exceptions - voted against this same type of proposal. In only a single year, the concept of an early signing day has gained speed. Even if it does not get "ratified" this year, the idea got a jolt of momentum from Destin, Fla.

Either way, an early signing period is necessary. And inevitable.

AC100 On Campus: JAMARKUS MCFARLAND

2008-06-06T10:07:00.002-05:00

On my trip through the state of Texas last week, I had a chance to sit down with half a dozen of the top prospects in the state. It turns out, they are also some of the top prospects in the nation.

First up is the top defensive tackle in the nation: Jamarkus McFarland.

Here is the link to the video...

DT Jamarkus McFarland Video

The biggest thing that stood out to me about big J-Mark was his off the field attitude and mentality. He was very humble and honest. He is student body president. He never misses class, practice or workouts. He lives for Lufkin High School. I asked him if he had any favorite teams or players growing up and he said, "I grew up a Lufkin Panther fan."

He is also incredibly strong. He benched 3-bills as a freshman.

It looks like LSU and Texas are the finalist with LSU having the edge. Les Miles and Co. are cleaning up...

AC100 On Campus: ERIC GORDON

2008-06-06T09:58:00.003-05:00

I had a chance to shoot practice and sit down with Hillsboro's Eric Gordon.

here is the link to the video...

ATH Eric Gordon

Gordon does a litte bit of everything for Hillsboro. He will be used as a wideout, a running back, cornerback and safety. He will also return kicks.

He was easily the best athlete on the field when I watched practice. He was also much thicker than I anticipated, particularly in the lower body. He strength should really develop on the next level. Its the mental side of things that he will need the most work on. He reads, progressions and maturity must be improved if he expects to star in a conference like the SEC or ACC.

The NFL Draft: As Recruits?

2008-05-20T01:36:00.000-05:00

The closest thing NFL fans get to actual football this time of the year is the NFL Draft. It is the NFL’s version of Christmas day. Fans from San Diego to Buffalo wait in anticipation as Santa Claus — played by NFL commissioner Roger Goodell — walks to the podium every 10 minutes to hand out another present. Kansas City fans love their shiny new bike: LSU defensive tackle Glenn Dorsey. While Houston fans scoffed at their new pair of tube socks: Virginia Tech offensive lineman Duane Brown.

But how did Dorsey and Brown come to be first round draft picks?

Dorsey was a highly touted, four-star Rivals100 (top 100) defensive lineman from Gonzalez, La. Brown, on the other hand, was a lower rated three-star tight end from Richmond, Va.

It raises a question that is always a hot-button issue within the walls of the palatial Athlon Sports headquarters: Do recruiting rankings really matter?

In an effort to finally reach the bottom of this long-debated argument, I examined the recently completed 2008 NFL Draft. What better way to truly evaluate talent than with a list of the top-100 players selected by NFL talent gurus and personnel wizards.

For the sake of discussion, the first three rounds of this year's draft will be used. If it wasn’t for those darned Patriots and Spygate — and their forfeited first-round pick — it would have been a nice, clean 100-player list. Instead, I am stuck with only 99.

In addition, all non-FBS picks will be excluded as well. Eight players from FCS schools were selected. Two went in the first round (Dominique Rogers-Cromartie, Joe Flacco), two in the second (Jerome Simpson, Dexter Jackson) and four in the third (Kendall Langford, Antwaun Molden, Bryan Smith, Chad Rinehart). There is one small caveat, however. Delaware quarterback Joe Flacco, the 18th overall pick, will be included, since he originally signed with Pitt. The reasoning behind this is simple: Not only did all the recruiting services pass these guys, so did all the FBS coaching staffs.

For the sake of consistency, all recruiting rankings will come from Rivals.com.

Using a 3,000-player pool for any given year (25 scholarships x 119 FBS teams = 2,975 prospects), here is how a normal recruiting class looks:

: 25-30 per year
: 275-325 per year
: 700-800 per year
: 1,600-1,800 per year

This means that only the top one percent of high school football players receive that coveted fifth star. The top 10 percent get a fourth star. If a prospect is ranked in the Rivals 100 — or the Athlon Consensus 100 — he is ranked in what is roughly the top three percent of high school prospects.

That is rarified air.

Those are just the ones that get evaluated and receive the subsequent star ratings, however. According to MaxPreps.com, there are roughly 15,000 high school football teams in this country. That is approximately 300,000 senior football players in any given year (15,000 teams X 20 seniors per team). Those aforementioned percentages become microscopic when applied to the true player pool.

One-thousandth of one percent of high school senior football players will ever receive a five star rating. Keep that in mind.

Now that all of that is out of the way, the following is a look at the 2008 NFL Draft as recruits.

"Straight Cash, Homie"

Only one player in the top 10 was not ranked as a four-star prospect or higher. Matt Ryan, the third overall pick, was a three-star prospect coming out of Exton, Pa. Here is the breakdown of the top-10 picks:

Pick	Player	Position	School	No. of Stars	Rivals 100?
1.	Jake Long	T	Michigan		No
2.	Chris Long	DE	Virginia		No
3.	Matt Ryan	QB	Boston College		No
4.	Darren McFadden	RB	Arkansas		Yes
5.	Glenn Dorsey	DT	LSU		Yes
6.	Vernon Gholston	LB	Ohio State		No
7.	Sedrick Ellis	DT	USC		Yes
8.	Derrick Harvey	DE	Florida		Yes
9.	Keith Rivers	LB	USC		Yes
10.	Jerod Mayo	LB	Tennessee		No

The 10 most valued NFL prospects were almost unanimously ranked very highly coming out of high school. The only one that was not a big time recruit, Ryan, plays the most difficult position to evaluate — quarterback.

No, I am the Best

Not many high school football players can claim that they were the best player at their position in the nation. This draft’s first four rounds saw eight players drafted that were ranked as the best player at their given position when coming out of high school.

Player	School	Pick (Round)	HS Position	Class
Keith Rivers	USC	9th (1)	ILB	2004
Jonathan Stewart	Oregon	13th (1)	RB	2005
Kenny Phillips	Miami	31st (1)	S	2005
Martellus Bennett	Texas A&M	61st (2)	TE	2005
Early Doucet	LSU	81st (3)	WR	2004
Andre Caldwell	Florida	97th (3)	WR	2003
Justin King	Penn State	101st (4)	CB	2005
Tony Hills	Texas	130th (4)	TE	2003

Additionally, there were 14 players taken in the first three rounds that were ranked in the top-5 at their position nationally when coming out of high school. Among these were Darren McFadden (#2 ATH, 2005), Derrick Harvey (#2 WDE, 2004) and Dan Connor (#2 ILB, 2004) who ranked as the second best prospect at their position nationally.

The Numbers Game

Here is a round-by-round breakdown of how draftees ranked as high school prospects:

	Round 1	Round 2	Round 3	Total (Top 99)
	5	4	3	12
	11	10	9	30
	7*	9	13	29
	7	5	7	17
FCS	1*	4	2	7

* - Joe Flacco is counted as a three star Pittsburgh signee

Roughly 45 percent of the first three rounds were highly ranked recruits coming out of high school. There were also 25 members of the Rivals 100 — the top-100 prospects in any given year — taken in the first three rounds.

On the surface it looks like a prospect is almost more likely to be a first-round pick as a two star (7) than a five star (5). However, a deeper look at these numbers shows just how remarkable recruiting rankings can be:


No. in each class	25-30	275-325	700-800	1,600-1,800
No. drafted in '08	12	30	29	17
Percent drafted	40-48	9-11	3.6	Less than 1

This means that a player has nearly a 50-50 chance of being drafted in the first three rounds if he is ranked as a five star recruit. The chance drops significantly for four stars. It drops even further for three star prospects, as they have less than a four percent chance. Two star recruits basically have no chance of being drafted in the first round — in fact, its less than one percent.

The Big Six

College football fanatics have recently fallen in love with the “BCS Busters.” Utah, Boise State and Hawaii have all played in recent BCS bowl games. Fans and athletic directors alike have complained about the smaller schools not getting a chance at a National Championship.

Do they deserve a chance? Yes. Will they ever win a National Championship? The talent breakdwn says no.

For the most part, ‘non-big six’ schools finish outside of the top-50 in recruiting rankings. But there are plenty of players drafted from these schools. So why do they get the perceived slight in recruiting rankings? One word: depth.

Since 2000, the Miami Hurricanes lead college football with 62 draft picks. The first non-big six team is BYU. The Cougars’ 20 draft picks rank 39th in the nation. This means that two-thirds of the big six teams are consistently putting more players into the NFL than any one of the smaller schools.

Lump of Coal

As the draft played itself out, one thing kept popping into my head: There is a lot of talent being drafted in the middle rounds. In particular, underclassmen who declared early were being passed over. There must be a reason. The talent is clearly apparent as all of the players got drafted in rounds 2-4 and were all highly touted recruits. However, it is obvious that all of these players could have used one more year of growth and development:

Player	Team	Pick (Round)	Stars	Rivals 100?
Devin Thomas	Michigan State	34th (2)		NA*
Curtis Lofton	Oklahoma	37th (2)		62
DeSean Jackson	California	49th (2)		18
Calais Campbell	Miami	50th (2)		No
Malcolm Kelly	Oklahoma	51st (2)		68
Martellus Bennett	Texas A&M	61st (2)		8
Jamaal Charles	Texas	73rd (3)		57
Reggie Smith	Oklahoma	75th (3)		64
Jermichael Finley	Texas	91st (3)		No
Mario Manningham	Michigan	95th (3)		45
Justin King	Penn State	101st (4)		19

*- Thomas was the #15 ranked junior college prospect nationally in 2006

Except for Campbell and Finley, all of these prospects were ranked in the top-100 nationally coming out of high school. One more year and many could have been first round picks.

The Athlon Consensus

These numbers mean that recruiting ranking really do matter. Are recruiting services 100 percent accurate? Of course not. It is nearly impossible to evaluate motivation, maturity and integrity (See former Florida State WR Fred Rouse). However, recruiting rankings are pretty good indicators of how a prospect will turn out. As the industry grows, fans of college football can only expect that these self-proclaimed talent evaluators to get even better at predicting the future.

Athlon Sports debuted its Athlon Consensus 100 this January. The 2009 AC100 will include additional expert rankings to expand the recruiting rankings for fans in order to get a true national top-100 list.

So in a special service announcement to all college and pro football fans: Pay attention to recruiting! It is the future of the sport that we all know and love so much.

2009 Spotlight: Cierre Wood

2008-04-29T09:43:00.000-05:00

Texas' class is nearly finished with 17 commits. LSU is off to a great start with 10 verbals. The USC Trojans easily have the most bang for their buck with all 10 of their commitments likely falling in the AC100. Even Butch Davis and North Carolina have 11 strong pledges for 2009.

Notre Dame - until this weekend - had only one. And it really didn't count anyway.

Jake Golic, son of ESPN radio's Mike Golic, had been committed for a few weeks. Mike played at Notre Dame and Jake's brother, Mike Jr., was a member of Notre Dame's 2008 class. So it really wasn't shocking that Jake committed to the Irish.

This weekend, however, Charlie Weis and company stepped it up a bit.

New Jersey defensive tackle Tyler Stockton jumped aboard. The 6'1" 290-pound tackle is one of the top players in the underrated Garden State. Interior defensive line is certainly a spot of concern for Irish fans so Stockton is a great addition.

But that still was not the news of the weekend in South Bend. Yes, Jimmy Claussen looked good in the spring game but it was a running back from Oxnard, Calif. that made waves.

Santa Clara High School's Cierre Wood, the nation's top running back prospect, was in South Bend over the weekend and announced that he will be attending Notre Dame University.

The 6-foot, 195-pound tailback is something that the Irish desperately need: a home run threat. Charlie Weis has done a great job of adding depth to his backfield. However, names like Robert Hughes and Jonas Gray, albeit highly ranked and very talented, are bigger, more bruising style of runners. They will run between the tackles and do it very well. But none of the current running backs at Notre Dame are big play threats, though. Wood changes that immediately.

Wood has great speed and acceleration. Once he sees the hole, especially if it is on the outside, he explodes through a crease. He can score from anywhere on the field. Although he could add some size and bulk, he has a surprisingly strong lower body that allows him to run through most arm tackles. Balance, vision and cutting are all very strong aspects of his game. He can make people miss in the open field and quickly get back to full speed - generally leaving defenders flailing at air.

Wood will also be a solid receiving option from out of the backfield. He can get vertical in a hurry, putting a lot of pressure on linebackers who will likely be unable to keep up in the open field.

The only issue with Wood's game is that striaght-line, between the tackles yards will be tough to come by in high Division-1 football. As mentioned earlier, he shows good strength, but runs a bit high and is not incredibly thick. The great news for Irish fans is that he will not be asked to fill that role. Guys like Hughes and Gray will be the ones picking up the 4th-and-one's.

Wood in action:

2009 Spotlight: Dorian Bell

2008-04-22T11:01:00.007-05:00

The Ohio State University's 2009 recruiting class will be hard pressed to equal that of 2008. They finished behind only Alabama in the Athlon Sports top-25 recruiting classes.

Jim Tressell and staff are doing their best, however.

The Buckeyes 2009 haul, so far at least, is once again in the top-5 nationally, along with other schools like Texas, LSU and USC. Georgia, Oklahoma, North Carolina and Florida State are nipping at their heels.

With nine potential AC100 members out of 11 total commits, the Bucks should again finish atop the Big Ten recruiting rankings. Storm Klein could play almost anywhere on the field. John Simon is aiming to lead his team back to the OSHAA state title game. Jordan Hall will fit perfectly in a zone-read scheme with former teammate Terrelle Pryor. Chris Fields is a more polished version of Ted Ginn Jr.

But the top rated player in this class, thus far, is Gateway High School's Dorian Bell. The Monroeville, Pa., linebacker is a tackling machine. Pittsburgh fans certainly know who Bell is. 2008 AC100 defensive end Shayne Hale - and future Panther star - played on the same defensive unit. Scouts say that Bell is further along at his age then Hale was when he was a junior.

A very bold statement.

Bell holds roughly 40 offers and was expected to hold out longer on his decision. But after falling in love with OSU on a visit to Columbus, he surprised everyone by calling a press conference the very next day - April 21st - and picking the Buckeyes.

Like Hale, Bell is a tremendous closer. Once he reads the play, he gets to where he is going as fast as anyone in the nation. His speed, agilty and raw athleticism are fantastic. His size, although only listed at 6'1" and 210 pounds, is more than adequate. In fact, he might be closer to 220 at this point. He also has a long, rangy frame that will allow for him to put on muscle.

His change-of-direction and lateral quickness give Bell the ability to play sideline to sideline. This makes it incredibly difficult to run outside on him. He is obviously great when on the attack not only just in the run game but also within blitz packages. He will be a force coming off the edge and up the gut on pass blitzes.

Bell is the complete player, though. He is far superior to Hale when it comes to pass coverage. His fluid hips and agility allow defensive coordinators to match him up in man-to-man situations if needed. His pass drops are technically sound and very solid.

As mentioned, he will need to add weight to his frame. Taking on 6'7" 300-pound Big Ten linemen will always be an issue for Bell. The only other area of concern is his recognition skills. They are not poor by any means, but could use some honing. Each come with time in a division-1 football program.

Very simply put, there are very few weaknesses in Dorian Bell's game.

2009 Spotlight: Garrett Gilbert

2008-04-15T13:11:00.006-05:00

Mack Brown and the Texas Longhorns have accelerated the recruiting calendar more so than any other school in America.

The Longhorns have 17 commitments for the class of 2009. ITS APRIL! That is nearly a full class and none of them have played a single down of their senior seasons - or been to junior prom for that matter.

Of course, the state of Texas has something to do with it. No place in America is high school football a bigger deal than in the Lone Star state. Just ask the parents and fans of Southlake-Carroll who will be paying a premium for a PSL (Personal Seating License) just to get the right to purchase season tickets. This is high school football we are talking about!

At Lake Travis High School in Austin, Texas, fans do not have to buy PSL's to see the future of Longhorn football. Garrett Gilbert, a 6'3", 190-pound quarterback, put on an absolute clinic in passing efficiency in 2007.

The young signal caller completed 359 of his 555 passes - that's 65% - for 4,826 yards and 52 touchdowns. The completions, attempts and yardage marks were state records. At one point last season, in the state championship game against Houston's top defensive team, Gilbert completed 24 straight passes. Lake Travis won that 4A state title game and their quarterback garnered 2nd team All-State honors.

Just to show how advanced the recruiting process is, Gilbert has been committed to the Longhorns since February 7, 2008. That was Signing Day 2008 - over a year and a half before Gilbert will begin his freshman season.

Gilbert has proven to be a winner, and a very productive one at that. He shows excellent leadership ability and poise. His high completion percentage shows solid accuracy. He is also deceptively mobile. He will not wow defensive coaches but they will have to account for his legs when game-planning because he will make them pay on the ground if ignored. He throws very well on the run as well.

A couple of issues come up immediately with Gilbert. First, he will need to add some weight and strength. He is about the same size as Colt McCoy, who has had issues with injuries his entire career on the Forty Acres. Second, and this is nit-picking, but his arm strength is not elite. He makes up for it with great precision but may never have top-notch, NFL-type arm strength. Last, his mechanics will need smoothing out.

The size and mechanical issues can be fixed very easily with solid coaching and training programs. The arm strength may never be an issue in college, but will certainly effect his draft stock in a few years.

If Gilbert produces in the Big XII like he did in high school, Texas fans will not care one bit.

Gilbert in action:

2009 Spotlight: Matt Barkley

2008-04-14T10:16:00.004-05:00

When recruiting websites and media outlets sat down over the past few months to decide on how to rank the 2009 crop of football players, one name likely came up first: Matt Barkley. In fact, the conversation was likely very short. The Santa Ana, Calif. quarterback has separated himself as the clear No. 1 prospect in the nation.

Barkley is a 6'3" 225-pound monster behind the line of scrimmage. He is the complete package. Standing tall in the pocket, showing poise and maturity way beyond his teenage years, Barkley sprays the football all over the field. He has a great arm and can make every throw on the field. He has great footwork, balance, vision and can throw on the run. His mechanics are already developed ahead of schedule.

But it is not just about throwing the football, it is about how he throws it. He will stand confident and tall in the pocket while 280-pound defenders bear down on him and will calmly drop a 45-yard fade route right into his receivers waiting arms. His toughness and leadership will carry him a long way on a football field.

This poise is what sets him apart from most high school athletes. Of course, it comes with the territory. As a four-year starter for Mater Dei High School, young Barkley has grown very accustomed to the spotlight. Recent college greats Matt Leinart and Colt Brennan have both walked the halls and locker rooms of Mater Dei. The Southern California high school power is also one of only two high schools in America to boast two Heisman trophy winners (Leinart and John Huarte-Notre Dame). The other is Woodrow Wilson High in Texas (Davey O'Brien-TCU and Tim Brown-Notre Dame).

So pressure is certainly a part of the job description. Barkley relishes it.

The young signal caller was named the Gatorade National High School Player of the Year for 2007. He is the only junior to ever win the award. He also earned the 1st annual Joe Montana Quarterback of the Year award as well. He was the only junior nominated. He threw for an Orange County record 3,560 yards and 35 touchdowns while leading his team to a Southern California Pac-5 Division quarterfinal game in '07.

Sounds like a nice resume for a junior in high school. But wait there is more.

Barkley, a devout Christian, is the leader of a program named 'Monarchs for Marines' (M4M). The Mater Dei Monarchs dedicated the 2007 season to the troops stationed at Camp Pendleton. Hundreds of players, coaches and family members showed up at the base to help landscape and renovate the grounds. M4M has raised roughly $100,000 for fallen and wounded soldiers.

So who gets this young prodigy? Shockingly, Pete Carroll and the USC Trojans already have a verbal commitment from the quarterback. If there was any doubt, Les Barkley - Matt's father - was an All-American water polo player for USC in the 70's.

Talent. Genetics. Intelligence. Maturity. Focus. Humility. Mr. Barkley has it all, except the thing he craves the most. A CIF state championship. It was that loss in the quarterfinals that drives the quarterback. He works every week with future teammates - wide receiver Morrell Pressley - and quarterback gurus - Steve Clarkson - in order to be constantly improving. Needless to say, a state championship is his goal for 2008. Hell, its the only thing the kid doesn't have!

This does not bode well for guys named Mitch Mustain and Aaron Corp.

2009 Spotlight: Bryce Brown

2008-03-28T14:25:00.003-05:00

South Florida is loaded with talent. This is no secret and never has been. In fact, one could argue that Dade and Broward Counties are possibly the two most talent laden counties in America. The Miami Hurricanes capitalized on a loaded South Florida region last season as nearly half of the 2008 recruiting class came from this area. The much written about Northwestern High School supplied seven top level talents to the Canes.

However, Randy Shannon went across the fruited plain to land one stud prospect last season in linebacker Arthur Brown. In 2009, Shannon has once again left the friendly confines of Miami to land a superstar prospect. Arthur Brown's younger and possibly more talented brother, Bryce Brown, clicked his heels together and traded his mid-western Kansas home for the glitz and glamor of South Beach.

Bryce is a 6' 212-pound running back from Wichita East High School in Wichita, Kansas. The two-time All-State selection should make Miami Hurricane fans very happy, especially since it seems that recently The-U has been missing the playmakers at running back it is used to having in the backfield. It has been nearly six years since names like Willis McGahee, Clinton Portis or Frank Gore were toting the rock. That should all change with Mr. Brown.

Although he is listed at 6-foot, he looks a little smaller than that on film. However, 5'10" and 5'11" running backs actually have an easier time of staying healthy than their taller counterparts.

Speed is one issue that will not hinder Brown. He can fly. Getting to the edge on sweep plays and off-tackle runs is a major strength of his game. Once he has the corner, he is virtually impossible to catch. Speed is not his only asset, though. He runs with great power, pressing and creating the hole if one has not been created for him.

There are just very few weaknesses in his game. He has great vision, balance and will be a threat out of the backfield in the passing game.

The level of competition might be a question mark, however, it did not hinder his brother's evaluation any.

Brown finished his junior year with 2,039 yards rushing and 26 touchdowns.

Here is a look at Bryce. A little Devin Hester in his game...

And a second reel...

2009 Spotlight: Russell Shepard

2008-03-26T08:49:00.004-05:00

The LSU fan base has very little to be upset about.

They have two football National Championships in five years, a feat only matched by the mighty Men of Troy. John Brady has finally been fired, although it will be sad to see his former pole dancer of a wife go. If they can keep Anthony Randolph around, they might have a shot at the SEC West title next year in hoops. Things are good in Cajun country.

The quarterback situation at LSU may leave a bit to be desired, however. Ryan Perrilloux has shown that he has a ton of ability...at getting into trouble. Is Jarrett Lee ready to step in and start in the event of a Perrilloux suspension? Which at this point is more likely than not. Possibly, but he is yet unproven. How about Jordan Jefferson?

Well, it will be sometime before the answer shows up on campus, but mark it down, once he does, all the names mentioned above will be forgotten.

Russell Shepard, who is most assuredly a top-10 prospect for 2009 has already committed to LSU.

The Houston, Texas native plays his high school ball at Cypress Ridge. Describing it as simply playing ball does not really do him justice, though. He makes people look silly. The 6-2, 190-pound quarterback/athlete is nearly unstoppable. He makes most of his plays on designed runs or improvised scrambles, and he makes a lot of plays.

He has Percy Harvin speed, agility and quickness from the quarterback position. His vision, lateral movements and acceleration are unmatched.

Obviously, he will need some work on his passing skills but the raw tools are there. He has a quick, tight release putting decent zip on the ball. He does not have a huge arm, but shows the strength to make most throws. The short to intermediate game is already a solid part of his game. He also does a great job of throwing on the run. Something that will be a huge part of his college game on bootlegs, rollouts and play-action fakes.

In addition, Shepard has been visiting Austin on regular basis in order to work with former Cincinnati Bengal and East Carolina Pirate quarterback Jeff Blake. He has been tutoring young Mr. Shepard. This can only be a good thing for LSU fans as it will accelerate his learning curve within the passing game.

Here is a taste of what this young athlete can do...

Terrelle Pryor is Finally a Buckeye

2008-03-20T15:59:00.002-05:00

The most memorable recruitment process in recent memory has finally come to an end.

Terrelle Pryor, a native of Jeannette, Pa., announced yesterday – six weeks after National Signing Day – that he will be playing his college football for Ohio State.

It seems only yesterday that I was standing in the Rivals.com film room when the first film of this mythical playmaker showed up. A dozen or so employees crowded around one small computer screen, giddy with excitement. I have never seen grown men coo over a football player. The 6-5, 230-pound red, white and blue streak was the talk of the office, causing adults to gossip like schoolgirls.

Now, nearly two years later, Ohio State fans are the ones smiling.

The trip from recruiting junkie message board fodder to starting quarterback in the ‘Shoe is a long one. In the fall of 2006, Pryor wrapped up his junior year with 1,732 yards passing and 15 touchdowns with 1,676 yards rushing and an additional 13 trips to paydirt. He was already sporting half-a-dozen offers, maybe more.

Fans and scouts should have known what was in store in 2007 when he started his senior campaign with a 57-yard touchdown run on his team’s first play from scrimmage. He stepped off the high school gridiron for the last time as a PIAA 2A state champion. In his final game against Dunmore, Pryor threw one touchdown, ran for three and caught yet another score. Jeannette High was never challenged in the 49-21 win – or in any other game for that matter.

Pryor finished his senior season with a statistical symmetry that I have never seen: 1,889 yards passing and 1,889 yards rushing – and 58 touchdowns. He also became the first player in WPIAL history to pass and rush for over 4,000 yards, finishing with 4,250 yards passing and 4,249 yards rushing.

One state championship was not enough for Pryor, however. The dynamic athlete is also a top-rated basketball recruit. He led Jeannette High School to a 76-72 overtime win over Strawberry Mansion in the 2A state title game, scoring 23 points and snagging eight rebounds. Those totals are actually quite paltry compared to some of his other games, where the very rare quadruple-double was not to far out of reach on a number of occasions.

With basketball finally behind him, the pressure to make a decision was certainly mounting. Ohio State, Penn State, Oregon and Michigan sat waiting for the young quarterback.

What is interesting is why they were waiting. In a Signing Day announcement – which was ironically to announce that he wasn’t signing – Pryor claimed that he needed more time to take visits. Oregon and Penn State were the likely beneficiaries. Yet, as Pryor finally announced on Wednesday that he was heading to Columbus, he still had not visited Oregon or Penn State, at least not officially. So why then did Pryor delay his announcement? He has been involved in the recruiting process for at least two full years. What did he not know on Signing Day? One thing is for sure: many different people were pulling him in many different directions.

It is likely that we will never know the truth. And Ohio State fans could not care less.

“I feel bad because I said no to Michigan, because I had so much of a bond with Coach (Rich) Rodriguez,” Pryor said at his press conference. “They had their hopes on me and I let them down but I am going with Coach Tress.”

It goes to show that there is no second place when it comes to recruiting.

There is one area of concern, albeit very minor. Pryor has made it apparent that the NFL is his ultimate goal. No one has the right to tell him otherwise, but what is worrisome is his obsession with the league.

“The night before I talked with a lot of NFL coaches and scouts to see what they thought I should do,” he said.

It is reasonable to solicit advice but to depend on it is unwise.

At Ohio State, he needs to be himself in order to be successful and win games like Buckeye fans are accustomed to. That means running the football and using his superior athletic ability to make plays. If he is too focused on his draft stock during his final year(s) and presses himself into being a pocket passer, it could be detrimental to the team.

Other than that, Buckeye fans have good reason to be excited. He is a dynamic athlete who immediately upgrades the depth at quarterback. Fans of the Scarlet and Gray should not have to wait long to see Pryor in action. Look for Jim Tressell to work him into the rotation much like Tim Tebow was used at Florida as a freshman. Buckeye fans do not need to be reminded of what happened Tebow’s freshman year.

It is a perfect situation for Pryor. He will get snaps in packages and situations that he is comfortable with. Tressell will allow him to enter the game and make plays with his legs first. Not only does this give Pryor some experience, but it also gives Todd Boeckman some rest. In addition, opposing defenses will have to gameplan for a completely different style of quarterback.

If he is half the player we all saw on film that first day two years ago, Ohio State fans – not SEC fans – will be the ones celebrating a national championship.

Top 25 Prospects to Watch for 2009

2008-03-19T12:46:00.010-05:00

The 2008 class is in the books, at least for the most part, and coaching staffs everywhere have already turned their attention to their 2009 classes. Some schools already have strong starts on the recruiting trails.

USC already has ten committed prospects for the ’09 class – eight of which are top-100 type players. Quarterback Matt Barkley (Santa Ana, Calif.) is considered by many as the top signal-caller in this class, and he is already committed to the Trojans. He is also the early favorite for the No. 1 spot on the 2009 Athlon Consensus 100.

Florida State has six commits thus far but the quality is astounding. Five of the six have the potential to be top-100 players. Taking care of the local markets and keeping kids at home is essential for FSU in a year where the Tallahassee area is well-stocked. Wide receiver Willie Downs, corner JaJuan Harley, end Brandon Jenkins and linebacker C.J. Mizell all hail from Tallahassee, Fla.

Ohio State already has eight verbal pledges, three of which are almost locks for the AC100. John Simon (Youngstown, Ohio) led his team to the Ohio high school state title game last season only to lose by a single point to Coldwater. Rest assured he will be fired up for his senior season. Chris Fields (Painesville, Ohio) is eerily similar to return specialist Ted Ginn Jr. Fields will be a much better wide receiver and should impact the return game as well.

Texas, however, is off to arguably the best start of anyone for 2009. They already have 15 commitments. Garrett Gilbert (Austin, Texas) is an incredibly productive high school passer. He threw for nearly 5,000 yards and 52 touchdowns in his junior campaign. Chris Whaley (Madisonville, Texas) looks exactly like Super Bowl champ Brandon Jacobs when he runs through tacklers with his 6-3, 225-pound frame. Mack Brown has once again pushed the recruiting calendar to the limits.

North Carolina and Butch Davis are also off to a great start with a solid group of local talents. Michigan State, Stanford and LSU are also off to great starts for ’09.

A few mid-major programs are making waves as well. BYU and TCU are two of the top non-BCS programs in the nation and it is showing in this recruiting season.

2008 saw maybe the most talented collection ever of wide receiver prospects in one class. This season quarterback and defensive tackle are the two positions that really stand out so far. Both are premium positions and normally very scarce. Not in 2009, both are loaded with talent.

Also, look to the Midwest for extra talent this year. The state of Wisconsin is poised to have its most talented class of seniors in two decades. Minnesota, Michigan and Illinois are also stacked with talent for the 2009 class.

The state of Louisiana also boasts an above average class, with possibly five or six AC100 members.

It is very early but here are some names that will become household very early in the recruiting process:

Matt Barkley - QB - Santa Ana, Calif. (6-3, 225) USC
Shevodrick Beaver - QB - Wichita Falls, Texas (6-3, 190)
Dorian Bell - LB - Monroeville, Pa. (6-1, 220)
Bryce Brown - RB - Wichita, Kan. (6-0, 215) Miami
Marlon Brown - WR - Memphis, Tenn (6-5, 208)
Vontaze Burfict - LB - Corona, Calif. (6-2, 230) USC
William Campbell - DL - Detroit, Mich. (6-4, 320) Mich
Chris Davenport - DT - Mansfield, La. (6-3, 315)
D.J. Fluker - DT - Foley, Ala. (6-7, 325) Alabama
Garrett Gilbert - QB - Austin, Texas (6-3, 190) Texas
Kevin Graf - OL - Agoura, Calif. (6-6, 305) USC
Devon Kennard - DE - Phoenix, Ariz. (6-4, 240)
Dre Kirkpatrick - DB - Gadsden, Ala. (6-2, 185)
Jacobbi McDaniel - DT - Greenville, Fla. (6-0, 285) FSU
Jamarkus McFarland - DT - Lufkin, Texas (6-3, 290)
Lamar Miller - RB - Miami, Fla. (5-11, 208)
Rueben Randle - WR - Bastrop, La. (6-3, 200)
Tyrik Rollison - QB - Sulpher Springs, Texas (6-2, 195)
Tom Savage - QB - Philadelphia, Pa. (6-3, 230)
Russell Shepard - QB - Houston, Texas (6-2, 195) LSU
John Simon - DT - Youngstown, Ohio (6-3, 280) Ohio St
Frankie Telfort - LB - Miami, Fla. (5-11, 195)
Manti Te'o - LB - Honolulu, Hawaii (6-2, 230)
Chris Whaley - RB - Madisonville, Texas (6-3, 225) Texas
Cierre Wood - RB - Oxnard, Calif. (6-0, 195)

2009 Classes to Watch: Texas

2008-03-18T08:21:00.005-05:00

Many people credit JoePa with the emergence of the 'early commitment' years ago. Mack brown has taken it to a new level. The newly formed Junior day has gained tremendous popularity amongst coaches in which hundreds of juniors from around the area show up on campus.

Of course, being in Texas provides an added bonus. High School football and the recruiting process is more mainstream and sped up in the Lone Star state more so than any other. Kids and parents are more accustomed, earlier, than any where else. There are more independent film companies promoting high school athletes in Texas. There is dramatically more media coverage of high school football in Texas more so than anywhere else. Hell, fans have to buy PSL's just to get tickets to Southlake Carroll games.

All this means that the Texas Longhorns are at the precipice of the recruiting calendar. As Brown and staff were inking their No. 11 recruiting class as ranked by Athlon Sports in February, the Horns already had 10+ commitments for 2009.

Now, they have the early lead for the No. 1 class in 2009 with 15 commitments. All of them hail from the state of Texas.

There are two names that really catch my eye on film:

Garrett Gilbert - QB - Austin, Texas (6-3, 190)

Gilbert has been nothing if not incredibly productive. Throwing for nearly 5,000 yards and 52 touchdowns (versus 12 INTs) in only his junior year is quite impressive. He throws a great deep ball, shows some escapability and will stand tall in the pocket and take the hit in order to deliver the ball. He shows good arm strength, solid accuracy and good footwork/throwing motion. Gilbert is mechanically sound and VERY productive. To me, those are signs of future success.

Chris Whaley - RB - Madisonville, Texas (6-3, 220)

Whaley is the definition of a work horse. His size and speed combo could be deadly in Austin. He is a smaller version of Brandon Jacobs. He has similar running style and is certainly not afraid of contact. It is fun to watch this kid run the rock. He has quick enough feet to be a factor in the passing game but his strength will be between the tackles. He will wear defenses down and will be a dominant fourth quarter runner.

Greg Timmons (WR, Aldine, TX) and Thomas Ashcraft (OL, Cedar Hill, TX) will both be in the Athlon Consensus 100.

Once again, the Texas Longhorns beat everyone out of the recruiting gate.

2009 Classes to Watch: Southern Cal

2008-03-17T17:11:00.003-05:00

The USC Trojans finished 5th in the Athlon Sports national recruiting rankings for 2008. Fans of the Troy must have been very disappointed to have not finished No. 1 after three straight recruiting National Championships (04-06). Pete Carroll has made his early claim for regaining that recruiting throne in 2009 - although Mack Brown and Texas are making a strong case for No. 1 at the moment. The Longhorns have 15 commits to USC's measly 10 pledges.

The Horns have the edge in quantity but the Trojans are once again, second to none in quality: of the current 10 commitments, 8 are top-100 and all ten are potential Athlon Consensus members. Two names in particular stand out, however.

This 2009 class starts with the early favorite for No. 1 player in the nation title: Mater Dei's big-arm quarterback Matt Barkley.

Matt Barkley - QB - Santa Ana, Calif. (6-3, 225)

Barkley is likely to be the No. 1 prospect on the 2009 Athlon Consensus 100. He has all the tools. He is big, physical and tough. He stands in the pocket and doesn't mind taking the hit if he can deliver the ball. Which he can do with great efficiency. He has a huge arm and can make every throw on the field. More important than his physical gifts is his mental make-up. He is a natural leader. He has wonderful pocket presence and poise under pressure. It is almost as if he was genetically designed to play quarterback. He also was awarded the first annual Joe Montana Quarterback of the Year award. How he won over the top prospect in the nation, Terrelle Pryor, who not only set records but won a state title is beyond me - but I digress. Barkley was the only 2009 prospect to be a finalist.

Vontaze Burfict - LB - Corona, Calif. (6-2, 235)

This kid is the next in a line of stellar linebackers for the men of Troy. Burfict should be considered as the top linebacker in the nation, or at least in the conversation with names like Manti Te'o (Honalulu, Hawaii), Dorian Bell (Monroeville, Pa.) and Frankie Telfort (Miami, Fla.). Burfict absolutely destroys ball carriers. He is great on the attack, flying through and around blockers in order to get to his target.

Here is a taste of what Mr. Barkley can do on the field...take note of the solid play-action fakes and the great arm strength on those deep out routes.

Team Recruiting Countdown: No. 1 Alabama Crimson Tide

2008-03-16T12:20:00.003-05:00

No. 1 Alabama Crimson Tide (SEC No. 1)

2008 Haul: 32 signees, 5 Athlon Consensus 100

Scouting Report:

Congratulations are once again in order to Nick Saban and the Alabama coaching staff for putting together the best recruiting class of the 2008 campaign. What makes this class so special is its balance. From top to bottom and at nearly every position on the field, the level of ability is astounding. It was terribly difficult just to pick 10 names for the ‘Best of the Rest’ section. It could have been 20 names long and some players would have still been left out.

With so much balance, it becomes difficult to really narrow down areas of focus for this class. The defensive front seven and offensive playmakers might have been the two main areas of concern for Saban. Not only has he addressed those issues with flying colors but also any other small area of weakness as well.

With the implementation of the 3-4 defense, Saban has placed a premium on smaller, faster, more aggressive linebackers and bigger, stronger defensive lineman. Four defensive ends, four tackles and potentially five linebackers head to the Capstone in ’08.

Glenn Harbin (Mobile, Ala.) and Undra Billingsley (Birmingham, Ala.) are the two most talented end prospects and bring with them great size at 6-6 and 6-4 respectively. At tackle, size is the first word to come to mind when dealing with Terrance Cody (Perkinston, Miss.). He is listed at 6-5 and a ridiculous 395 pounds. Throw in the 6-5, 320-pound Kerry Murphy (Chatham, Va.) and the athletic Marcel Dareus (Birmingham, Ala.) and the Bama D-line should be well-stocked – and well fed – for the next few years.

At linebacker, there is a plethora of talent. Athlete Devonta Bolton (Norcross, Ga.), Don’ta Hightower (Lewisburg, Tenn.), Courtney Upshaw (Eufaula, Ala.) and Jerrell Harris (Gadsden, Ala.) are as strong a group of backers as any in the nation. Harris is the best of the group as he plays with complete disregard for bodily safety. He is a missile. Hightower is a perfect fit for that hybrid DE/OLB position that Saban calls the ‘Jackback.’ He can drop into coverage like a linebacker but put his hand in the dirt and rush the passer. The DeMarcus Ware, Shawn Merriman type player is certainly an important fit for a 3-4 scheme. Bolton could also play that role, but, like athlete Chris Jordan (Brentwood, Tenn.), could find himself on offense. Upshaw also will get a look at ‘Jackback.’

Playmakers on the offense were also a key focus of the Bama staff. With current suspensions hanging over certain unnamed players and senior graduation really hitting the wide receiver group hard (D.J. Hall, Matt Caddell and Keith Brown), the Tide had to add some playmakers to the offense. They added, potentially, 11 new faces to the offense skill positions – not counting quarterback.

Julio Jones (Foley, Ala.) is the best wideout in the nation, period.

Burton Scott (Prichard, Ala.), Mark Barron (Mobile, Ala.), Mark Ingram (Flint, Mich.) and Jordan can all be threats as wide receivers as well as running backs. They all are dangerous in the open field and are all very comfortable and successful with the ball in their hands. Scott and Barron are both return men that could make an immediate impact on special teams. Jordan is more a pure runner than the rest but could end up at linebacker. Ingram is simply a game breaker; he just makes plays.

Melvin Ray (Tallahassee, Fla.) and Destin Hood (Mobile, Ala.) join Jones as the top pure pass catchers in the class.

John Paker Wilson is likely to keep his starting job this fall, but he may be on a short leash. Star Jackson (Lake Worth, Fla.) steps onto campus and is immediately the most athletic and legit passing option on the roster. Whoever is starting, the offensive line should be able to offer solid protection. Tyler Love (Mountain Brook, Ala.) may not be the most physically gifted tackle prospect in the nation but he may be the best football player at his position. Barrett Jones (Memphis, Tenn.) has wonderful versatility and John Michael Boswell (Northport, Ala.) adds great depth to the O-line.

Defensive back is also well represented in this class. Alonzo Lawrence (Lucedale, Miss.) late meteoric rise up recruiting rankings was due to the excellent job he did on fellow signee Julio Jones in the Mississippi-Alabama all-star classic. Robby Green (River Ridge, La.) and Robert Lester (Foley, Ala.) add talented depth to the defensive backfield.

The state of Alabama was loaded in 2008 and the Tide took advantage. The Tide signed 18 players from the Heart of Dixie. Tennessee was also very kind to the Crimson Tide sending three of its top-5 to Alabama including the top player, Barrett Jones.

Top Prospect: Julio Jones – WR – Foley, Ala. (6-4, 220) AC100 No. 2

Jones is the most physically gifted wide receiver in this year’s class of pass catchers. That is a monster statement as the 2008 wide receiver class might be the best and deepest group of wideouts ever.

He has a rare blend of size, speed, agility and natural instincts. He can do it all. As a deep threat, he has great leaping ability and ball-tracking skills. Over the middle he has the size and toughness to make the catch and take the big hit. At the line of scrimmage, his long arms and quick feet make him very difficult to jam. In the open field he has the elusiveness to make people miss and accelerate quickly for extra yards. In the running game, Jones can be a dominant blocker, using his big frame and long arms to shield defenders from the ball-carrier.

He is mentally tough as well. In a game against rival high school Daphne, Jones hurt his ankle in the first half and came out in the second half and played through the pain and caught a bomb to win the game. He is a leader on the field.

Best of the Rest:

Burton Scott – ATH – Prichard, Ala. (5-11, 190) AC100 No. 22
Tyler Love – OL – Mountain Brook, Ala. (6-7, 295) AC100 No. 23
Mark Barron – WR – Mobile, Ala. (6-2, 200) AC100 No. 58
Jerrell Harris – LB – Gadsden, Ala. (6-2, 220) AC100 No. 75
Alonzo Lawrence – CB – Lucedale, Miss. (6-1, 190)
Barrett Jones – OL – Memphis, Tenn. (6-5, 280)
Star Jackson – QB – Lake Worth, Fla. (6-3, 190)
Devonta Bolton – ATH – Norcross, Ga. (6-3, 220)
Don’ta Hightower – LB – Lewisburg, Tenn. (6-3, 250)
Mark Ingram – ATH – Flint, Mich. (5-10, 200)

Sleeper: Marcel Dareus – DL – Birmingham, Ala. (6-4, 275)

In a 3-4 scheme, the nose tackle is asked to basically play two gaps. Dareus, although very raw, could have that ability. Developing consistent pad level and strong hand technique will be his primary areas of focus. The rest of the ability is there, though. He has solid athleticism for his size and he plays with great strength at the point of attack. Dareus is a guy that could end up playing head up on the center, which in the game of football, is a rare commodity.

Team Recruiting Countdown: No. 2 Ohio State Buckeyes

2008-03-13T11:28:00.000-05:00

No. 2 Ohio State Buckeyes (Big Ten No. 1)

2008 Haul: 19 signees, 9 Athlon Consensus 100

Scouting Report:

Ohio State, much like USC, was all about quality rather than quantity. Ohio State had the highest number of AC100 members, nine – which would have been 10 but Devoe Torrence’s offer was pulled due to academic ineligibility the week leading up to Signing Day. The Buckeyes had virtually no lower ranked prospects (minus those that kick footballs).

And yet, this class is still not entirely finished. The twentieth and easily most important signees, is likely to be Terrelle Pryor. Pryor (Jeannette, Pa.) is the top player in the nation and a Vince Young clone. He is the most dynamic high school football player in the nation. He was set to sign with OSU on Signing Day but overtures by his father on behalf of Penn State has kept him from signing, even today. Pryor has, technically, until March 31st to sign his letter of intent. In theory, however, he could walk onto any campus in America come August and fall classes, sign scholarship papers and be on the football roster.

There is no telling how much longer this thing will drag out. No matter what happens, however, Ohio State looks to be the place the Pryor will end up.

Even without Pryor, this is one of the top recruiting hauls in the nation. Excepting USC, the offensive line class for OSU is tops in the nation. Mike Adams (Dublin, Ohio) is possibly the top left tackle prospect in the nation and has NFL written all over him. Group him with the massive J.B. Shugarts (Klein, Texas) and Michael Brewster (Orlando, Fla.) and the Bucks boast a formidable front line.

Jim Tressell did a great job of addressing needs one year in advance for this class. Most fans likely did not expect the entire linebacking corp to return intact. They will all be heading into their final year of eligibility and so depth was needed. Etienne Sabino (Miami, Fla.) is on par with names like Nigel Bradham (FSU) and Arthur Brown (Miami) when it comes to the top linebackers in this class. Andrew Sweat (Washington, Pa.) will also add needed depth.

The wide receiver spot is in a very similar situation as the backers. The Brians, Robiskie and Hartline, both will be seniors in 2008. Tressell will certainly have options on the outside now. DeVier Posey (Cincinnati, Ohio) is Chad Johnson’s personal protégé and is consequently very polished for his age. Lamaar Thomas (Fort Washington, Md.) is a Percy Harvin type athlete who can be used in the backfield as well as on the outside. Both are top-50 type players nationally. Jake Stoneburner (Dublin, Ohio), who just sounds like he should play tight end, will give Ohio State a new dynamic from the tight end spot. He may be the most athletic, fastest tight end prospect in the nation. His blocking skills need some work.
Losing Vernon Gholston to the draft was not a surprise to Tressell and staff. They addressed the defensive line with full force in ’08. Willie Mobley (Eden Prairie, Minn.) was second only to ND’s Mike Floyd, in terms of talent in the Gopher State. Garrett Goebel (Lombard, Ill.) is a massive prospect with tremendous football IQ. Both could end up at tackle but Mobley is likely to be an end as well as Nathan Williams (Washington Court House, Ohio) and Keith Wells (Gainesville, Ga.)

The defensive backfield, once again, is expected to lose a lot of talent after the ’08 season. Travis Howard (Miami, Fla.), who was Sabino’s teammate at Dr. Krop High, is as ready to play as any corner prospect in the nation. Great size and speed make him an option for nickel packages early in his career. Orhlan Johnson (Gulfport, Fla.) and Zach Domicone (Xenia, Ohio) will add plenty of depth to the safety position.

It is no surprise that roughly half of this class is from the state of Ohio. The rest of the nation was kind to the Buckeyes as well. Top players from Minnesota, Florida, Texas, Maryland, Illinois and Pennsylvania head to the banks of the Olentangy.

Top Prospect: Mike Adams – OL – Dublin, Ohio (6-7, 300) AC100 No. 25

This obviously changes immediately to Pryor, if and when he signs with Ohio State. But for now, Buckeye fans will have to settle for the top offensive lineman in the nation.

It is a thing of beauty to watch a 6-7, 310-pound tackle play with consistent pad level. Normally a player of his height will lack leverage; Adams has great leverage. He shows great footwork and hand technique. He shoots his hands high and hard, engages the defender and then proceeds to take him for a ride.

His amazing athleticism and quick feet allow him to get out into space and block comfortably. He gets great body positioning, using excellent knee bend and foot speed to keep himself in front of the defender. There are just not many guys his size that move around as well as he does.

In head-to-head battles with Shayne Hale (Pitt) at the U.S. Army All-American Bowl practice, Adams performed very well, pinning Hale on occasion. He also dominated Hargrave’s Quinton Coples (UNC).

Best of the Rest:

Michael Brewster – OL – Orlando, Fla. (6-6, 300) AC100 No. 12
Etienne Sabino – LB – Miami, Fla. (6-3, 225) AC100 No. 33
DeVier Posey – WR – Cincinnati, Ohio (6-2, 190) AC100 No. 39
J.B. Shugarts – OL – Klein, Texas (6-7, 300) AC100 No. 56
Lamaar Thomas – ATH – Fort Washington, Md. (5-11, 185) AC100 No. 68
Jake Stoneburner – TE – Dublin, Ohio (6-6, 230) AC100 No. 80
Garrett Goebel – DT – Lombard, Ill. (6-5, 270) AC100 No. 82
Andrew Sweat – LB – Washington, Pa. (6-2, 225) AC100 No. 84
Willie Mobley – DL – Eden Prairie, Minn. (6-2, 265)
Travis Howard – CB – Miami, Fla. (6-0, 180)

Sleeper: Zach Domicone – ATH – Xenia, Ohio (6-2, 210)

Domicone was an excellent duel-threat quarterback in high school and is projected as a defensive player. He is likely to start out as a safety but could add bulk and become an outside linebacker. He is a solid athlete for a kid his size and does not mind playing a physical brand of football. This strength in run support puts him at strong safety, at least at first.

2009 Classes to Watch: Ohio State

2008-03-12T14:14:00.009-05:00

I realize this is shocking news, but THE Ohio State University is off to a great start for the 2009 recruiting class. Right now in the ridiculously early 2009 team ranks they sit at #3.

All eight prospects are on the ESPN 150 to Watch list. Two of which, really stand out.

John Simon - DT - Youngstown, Ohio (6-3, 265)

Simon is a bit undersized at the moment but he has plenty of space to fill out. At 6-3, 290 he would be a force up the middle. He anchors a defensive line that was dealt a devastating one-point state championship loss to Coldwater last season. Look for Simon to have a great season in the fall.

Chris Fields - ATH - Ohio (6-0, 180)

Ted Ginn Jr. Let the comparisons start here at least, because either way, they will be coming. Fields glides through the open field with ease. The running style is similar to that of Ginn's. He will be dangerous immediately in the return game and the MASSIVE Jim Tressell trick play repertoire. If he can develop and refine his receiving skills faster than Ginn (no offense, but it wouldn't take much), he could press for time as a freshman.

The linebacker class is very strong as well. Jordan Whiting (Louisville, Ky.), although not huge, has adequate size. He could end up being the best of the current group. Maybe the most intriguing option, and easily the best name, of the group is Storm Klein (Newark, Ohio). At 6-2, 220 pounds and potential 4.5-6 speed, he has a lot of possibilities. Linebacker is certainly one of them. He has a little Brian Leonard in his game, though, and could be fun to watch on offense as a fullback/h-back hybrid. Adam Homan is no slouch either.

C.J. Barnett (Clayton, Ohio) and Jamie Wood (Pickerington, Ohio) are a really solid beginning to what could be a great defensive back class.

The midwest - Minnesota and Wisconsin in particular - is dramatically more talent laden than usual. Illinois and Michigan are also well stocked in 2009. Of course, having said all of that, I will venture a guess that Buckeye fans are likely more worried about a 2008 recruit at the moment. No worries Buckeye fans, Terrelle Pryor will be headed to the banks' of the Olentangy.

Team Recruiting Countdown: No. 3 Miami Hurricanes

2008-03-12T14:10:00.000-05:00

No. 3 Miami Hurricanes (ACC No. 1)

2008 Haul: 33 signees, 8 Athlon Consensus 100

Scouting Report:

Randy Shannon played defense for the Hurricanes when he was winning championships for The U, so it is no surprise that he is building his championship hopes on defense first. This is one of the top defensive classes in the nation, if not the best.

Four defensive lineman, six linebackers, six defensive backs and a couple of athletes that could play either offense or defense are headed to Coral Gables. Marcus Forston (Miami, Fla.), who anchors the D-line, is the top defensive tackle in the nation and is already practicing with the Canes this spring. This is bad news for ACC O-lines everywhere. Jeremy Lewis (West Palm Beach, Fla.) will also add some needed depth.

The top linebacker class in the nation is headlined by Arthur Brown (Wichita, Kan.). The tackling machine is followed closely by a group of speedy, versatile prospects. Jordan Futch (Miami, Fla.), Marcus Robinson (Homestead, Fla.) and Sean Spence (Miami, Fla.) all have the athleticism to play safety if needed. They can all run and they can all hit. The days of the fast, aggressive, attacking Miami linebackers is sure to continue into the near future.

As mentioned, team needs may push a few of those linebackers into different roles. Even without any help from the backers, the defensive back class is very strong. Brandon Harris (Miami, Fla.) may be the most ready to play cornerback in the entire nation. C.J. Holton (Crawfordville, Fla.) and Vaughn Telemaque (Long Beach, Calif.) are two playmakers that Shannon adds to his secondary. Athletes Davon Johnson (Miami, Fla.) and Travis Benjamin (Belle Glade, Fla.) could both find themselves knocking down passes instead of catching them. Both are lightning fast and are more likely to play offense.

With the departure of Kyle Wright (NFL Draft) and Kirby Freeman (Baylor), the quarterback position at Miami is very thin. Redshirt frosh Robert Marve has a leg up on winning the job, but this class certainly affords Shannon options. Miami landed three passers in this class. The athletic, state champion Jacory Harris (Miami, Fla.), the huge 6-foot-7 Taylor Cook (Altair, Texas) and appropriately named prep passer Cannon Smith (Chatham, Va.) all head to Coral Gables with hopes of dethroning Marve.

One of the stalwarts of Miami championship teams was offensive playmakers on the outside – Andre Johnson, Michael Irvin, Santana Moss, etc. This wide receiver class should make up for recruiting misses in Lance Leggett and Ryan Moore. Aldarius Johnson (Miami, Fla.) and Tommy Streeter (Miami, Fla.) are the top two talents and are used to playing together as they have been on the same offense all through high school (Northwestern HS). Davon Johnson is an absolute burner and Travis Benjamin will remind Miami fans of the smaller slot receivers (Moss, Parrish). Thearon Collier (Miami, Fla.), LaRon Byrd (Boutte, La.) and Kendall Thompkins (Miami, Fla.) add a ton of depth to the wideout corp.

Depending on the line of demarcation, 20 prospects out of the 33 total hail from South Florida. 12 of those 20 hail from Miami (not counting Hollywood or Homestead). Further still, seven of those 12 Miami based kids played ball together at Northwestern High in Miami. Shannon pulled off a clean sweep of the state champions, landing all seven of them.

Top Prospect: Marcus Forston – DT – Miami, Fla. (6-2, 293) AC100 No. 11

For a prospect that is 6-2, Forston looks to have a squatty build that is ideal for defensive tackle. It is this thickness that makes him such a powerful force up the middle. He gets great push up the middle and shows the ability to play all three downs from his tackle spot. Against the run, he holds his ground very well, using great lower body strength to control the line of scrimmage.

Forston is not just a big, lumbering 300-pounder, though. He has quick feet and shows great quickness and burst coming out of his stance. He also uses refined hand technique to manipulate blockers. His above-average athleticism also give him the ability to flow down the line and help on outside plays — a rare commodity for a run-stuffing, hulking defensive tackle.

Forston, much like UNC’s Marvin Austin last year, absolutely dominated the line at the U.S. Army All-American game. He will be the linchpin of the Miami defense for the next few seasons.

Best of the Rest:

Arthur Brown – LB – Wichita, Kan. (6-1, 216) AC100 No. 7
Aldarius Johnson – WR – Miami, Fla. (6-2, 195) AC100 No. 30
Brandon Harris – CB – Miami, Fla. (5-10, 175) AC100 No. 47
Ramon Buchanan – DB – Melbourne, Fla. (6-0, 195) AC100 No. 66
Marcus Robinson – LB – Homestead, Fla. (6-2, 220) AC100 No. 73
Jordan Futch – LB – Hollywood, Fla. (6-3, 205) AC100 No. 86
Sean Spence – ATH – Miami, Fla. (6-0, 190) AC100 No. 88
Davon Johnson – ATH – Miami, Fla. (5-11, 170)
Tommy Streeter – WR – Miami, Fla. (6-5, 200)
C.J. Holton – S – Crawfordville, Fla. (6-2, 195)

Sleeper: Travis Benjamin – ATH – Belle Glade, Fla. (5-10, 150)

This kid is VERY small, but he packs a punch. Benjamin is lightning quick and gets to full speed in no time. He could be very dangerous in a slot receiver roll or as a cover corner. He has great change of direction ability and wonderful athleticism. He also could be a dangerous return man. He is very similar in build to that of Roscoe Parrish or Sinorice Moss.

2009 Classes to Watch: LSU

2008-03-12T08:00:00.001-05:00

I suppose winning a National Championship will help with recruiting. Generally speaking, winning (or losing) on the field does not affect the current recruiting class, it always affects the next class. For LSU, that is the 2009 group. And Les Miles and Co. are definitely off to a strong start. With seven commitments, six of which are on the ESPN 150 To Watch list (again, this list is 400 prospects long), LSU boasts one of the top-5 classes in the nation for 2009.

Texas (15), USC (10), UNC (9) and Ohio St (8) are the only schools with more commits.

What is even more exciting for LSU fans is the depth of talent in the state of Louisiana in 2009. There is dramatically more talent at the top this season than last. There are 4-5 potential Athlon Consensus 100 members hailing from Cajun territory. Good news for LSU, especially since Louisiana only had 1 AC100 member in 2008, Chris Tolliver.

This 2009 class begins and ends with one name:

Russell Shepard - ATH - Houston, Texas (6-2, 190)

Watching film on Shepard, duel-threat is the word that comes to mind immediately. He has great vision, balance and cutting ability. Excellent speed and acceleration allow him to hit those tiny creases and get to the end zone. He is impossible to tackle in the open field. Obviously, he is not as accomplished of a passer. He shows good accuracy when fitting the ball into tight windows on slant/post routes. His level of ability as a passer is yet to be determined. I would also like to see him put on a good 20 pounds of muscle. Timmy Teabags is two inches taller and 40 pounds heavier and he gets banged up in the SEC, Shepard will too.

Michael Brockers - DE - Houston, Texas (6-6, 255)

It is easy to see why defensive coordinators fell in love with Brocker's size right away. He is a force with that 6-6, 260 pound frame. He will always need to concentrate on pad level and leverage with his size but that can be taught easily. He shows nice burst and strength at the point of attack. He has the complete package of tools for a high level defensive end.

Michael Ford - RB - Leesville, La. (5-10, 200)

Ford is a nice combination of size, speed and strength. He has a nice low center of gravity and shows a nice all-around game. He will need some fine-tuning but should be a nice prospect. Lets just hope this Mike Ford has an easier time getting into school than the other Mike Ford of Alabama and current South Florida lore.

Henry Orelus (OL Belle Glade, Fla.), Janzen Jackson (DB Lake Charles, La.) and Josh Downs (DT Bastrop, La.) also all have an outside chance at the AC100.

Look for LSU to really press for local products Rueben Randle (WR Bastrop, La.) and Chris Davenport (DT Mansfield, La.). Both will be AC100 members and at the top of in-state rankings.

Team Recruiting Countdown: No. 4 Notre Dame Fighting Irish

2008-03-11T10:41:00.001-05:00

No. 4 Notre Dame Fighting Irish

2008 Haul: 23 signees, 9 Athlon Consensus 100

Scouting Report:

It is not difficult to see where improvements need to be made on this Notre Dame team. The Irish finished last (119th) in total offense in 2007. Notre Dame also ranked at or near the bottom in terms of sacks allowed and yards lost (due to sacks). Needless to say, Weis could use a lot of different pieces.

To address the issues of protection, Weis went out and signed four, possibly five, offensive lineman. Trevor Robinson (Omaha, Neb.) and Lane Clelland (Owings Mills, Md.) will add much needed talent to the Sam Young led group. At center, Braxston Cave (Mishawaka, Ind.) could end up as the top center prospect in the nation and Mike Golic (Bristol, Ct.) clearly has solid bloodlines as his father played for the Irish and Philadelphia Eagles.

The O-line was supplemented nicely with two solid tight end prospects. Kyle Rudolph (Cincinnati, Ohio) is arguably the best tight end in the nation and Joseph Fauria (Encino, Calif.) has the skills and size (6-8, 260) to end up at tackle. Both positions could use the help, so a guy like Fauria will prove invaluable.

Speaking of pass catchers, the wideouts that head to South Bend are excellent. Mike Floyd (St. Paul, Minn.) is in the conversation for 2nd best wide receiver prospect in the nation behind Alabama’s Julio Jones. Floyd is the best prospect to come out of the state of Minnesota since Joe Mauer. Deion Walker (Christchurch, Va.) saw his stock slip a bit near the end of the year but is still very talented. John Goodman (Fort Wayne, Ind.) rounds out the trio. All three are 6-4.

The question now becomes who will be throwing them the ball. The nation’s top prospect a year ago was Jimmy Claussen, but he will compete with newcomer Dayne Crist (Sherman Oaks, Calif.). Claussen clearly has the advantage with one year of experience (if you want to call it that) but Crist has the physical tools (6-5 with a rocket arm) and mental make-up to really press Claussen for the starting gig.

The Irish have yet to sign a game-breaker at running back under Charlie Weis. They are, however, stock piling talented, Big 10 style runners. Jonas Gray (Detroit, Mich.), much like James Aldridge and Robert Hughes, is a bigger, more powerful runner. Gray has more talent than both Aldridge and Hughes. Look for the running back by committee theory to only get more muddled in South Bend. The talent is there, though.

The O-line was not the only ‘line’ that needed help in this class. The defensive front got a huge boost from the ’08 class. Five defensive lineman and four linebackers head to Notre Dame this year. End Ethan Johnson (Portland, Ore.) is the top player in the state of Oregon and is the most talented of the group. Brandon Newman (Louisville, Ky.) and Sean Cwynar (Woodstock, Ill.) add two massive bodies to the interior of the D-line. At linebacker, the top player in the state of Illinois, Steven Filer (Chicago), Crist’s teammate in California, Anthony McDonald, and the hybrid talent Darius Fleming (Chicago, Ill.) create a formidable group of tacklers. Former Penn State superstar Paul Posluszny’s younger brother David is also a part of this group. The genetics are unquestionable.

Three solid defensive backs look to sure up a porous secondary. Robert Blanton (Matthews, N.C.) is the most talented. Dan McCarthy (Youngstown, Ohio) is a brilliant leader and heady player but has some serious injury issues that may force him out of football all together. Jamoris Slaughter (Stone Mountain, Ga.) is a very strong blend of size and speed.

It is no surprise that Notre Dame can go out and recruit nationally. Players from 17 different states head to South Bend, Ind – only two from the Irish’s home state of Indiana. The top player in Oregon (Johnson), Minnesota (Floyd), Illinois (Filer), and Michigan (Gray) all picked Notre Dame. In addition, a top-5 talent from Maryland (Clelland), North Carolina (Blanton), Kentucky (Newman), Indiana (Cave), Nebraska (Robinson) and Illinois (Fleming/Cwynar) also will be calling South Bend home.

Top Prospect: Dayne Crist – QB – Sherman Oaks, Calif. (6-5, 225) AC100 No. 20

Crist may be the best pure quarterback in the nation. He is very similar in stature and physical ability to Ballwin quarterback Blaine Gabbert. He is not quite as mobile as Gabbert but does have some sneaky athleticism. Much like Ben Roethlisberger, he has an uncanny way of maneuvering away from the pass rush.

What separates Crist from most quarterback prospects is his superior arm strength and pocket poise. He can make every throw on the football field and does it standing tall in the pocket, even in the face of pressure. Although he has nice snap on the ball, Crist does a great job of throwing softer, catchable balls when the situation calls for it.

When it comes to mechanics and technique, Charlie Weis may want to work on Crist’s consistency. He shows flashes of perfect footwork, throwing motion and movements but will need to work on repeating those perfect reps with more consistency. Crist played as much under center as he did in the shotgun, so the transition to more of a pro-style offense should not be an issue.

Best of the Rest:

Mike Floyd – WR – St. Paul, Minn. (6-3, 200) AC100 No. 13
Kyle Rudolph – TE – Cincinnati, Ohio (6-6, 230) AC100 No. 26
Ethan Johnson – DE – Portland, Ore. (6-4, 260) AC100 No. 36
Deion Walker – WR – Christchurch, Va. (6-2, 186) AC100 No. 67
Jonas Gray – RB – Detroit, Mich. (5-10, 218) AC100 No. 70
Steven Filer – LB – Chicago, Ill. (6-3, 225) AC100 No. 78
Trevor Robinson – OL – Omaha, Neb. (6-6, 300) AC100 No. 85
Darius Fleming – LB/DE – Chicago, Ill. (6-2, 230) AC100 No. 90
Braxston Cave – C – Mishawaka, Ind. (6-4, 295)
Sean Cwynar – DT – Woodstock, Ill. (6-4, 280)

Sleeper: David Posluszny – LB – Aliquippa, Penn. (6-1, 210)

The younger brother of NFL first rounder Paul, Posluszny is much like his older counterpart in terms of recruiting evaluation. Both were underrated by most recruiting services. Little Poz is smaller in stature than his brother but has the same natural football instincts. His solid production comes from great work ethic, coach-ability and persistent attitude. He will be a classic over-achiever in college.

2009 Classes to Watch: North Carolina

2008-03-10T15:00:00.002-05:00

Butch Davis put together one of the ACC's top classes two season ago. The 2008 class was not nearly as deep or talented, despite a strong finish on Signing Day a month ago. Davis is making sure that the '09 version is more like the 2007 class than the 2008.

UNC already has nine commitments. Four are ESPN 150 Watch list members (the list is roughly 400 prospects). Those nine commits trail only Texas (15) and USC (10) nationally. It is safe to say that UNC is off to a great start and should press the traditional powers in the ACC - Mia, FSU, Clem, VT - in terms of recruiting. Six of the nine hail from North Carolina. This means that Davis is doing a bang-up job of establishing in-state recruiting relationships.

Josh Adams - WR - Cheshire, CT (6-4, 200)

This kid is a big, physical target on the outside. He has a big, rangy frame with room to add muscle. He shows outstanding leaping ability and solid ball skills. The level of competition is not great but he simply dominates the smaller defensive backs on deep passes. He will be a great threat in the vertical as well as red zone passing game. He is also used out of the backfield as a running option in a rushing capacity that is similar to the zone-read-option that everyone loves. He should be a big time playmaker for the Heels.

OFFERS: Rutgers, BC, Nebraska, Stanford, Iowa, Maryland, UConn

Hunter Furr - RB - Lewisville, NC (6-0, 195)

Furr is a dynamic little runner. He shows great speed and cutting ability. He has the ability to accelerate around tacklers. He also shows great balance as it takes a lot to knock him off course. He does not have a particularly great power or strength when running, so he will need weight. His footwork and vision make up for his lack of power between the tackles.

OFFERS: NC St, Wake, Virginia, Clemson

Jerad McAdoo - DT - Chapel Hill, NC (6-3, 290)

McAdoo's strength lies in his size and strength. He has a thick lower body that will be dominant once he learns to use proper leverage. The talent is certainly there but staying low and firing off with proper technique will be a major area of focus. The size and power cannot be taught, however.

OFFERS: NC St, Virginia, Clemson, Maryland, Wake, South Carolina

David Collins - OL - Kernersville, NC (6-7, 325)

Collins may have the most upside of anyone in this class so far. Having said that, he is a bit of a project. His main attribute is his brute size. Not only is he a freakin mountain of a recruit but he also works very hard in the weight room. His run block skills are slightly behind his pass block abilities. He walls off smaller defenders from the quarterback. He will need to work on his footwork and agility but should be the protector of blind sides in Chapel Hill for the next four years.

CONSIDERING: ECU, Miami, NC St, Wake, Va. Tech

All thing considered, UNC is off to a great start. Right now, the currently have a top-10 class nationally. Lets see if Davis and staff can maintain that success. Some wins on the field would certainly help.

Team Recruiting Countdown: No. 5 USC Trojans

2008-03-10T10:25:00.001-05:00

No. 5 USC Trojans (Pac-10 No. 1)

2008 Haul: 19 signees, 8 Athlon Consensus 100

Scouting Report:

The only reason this class is not No. 1 or 2 is the quantity. Of course, having the top recruiting class in the nation three of the last four years will create a crowded depth chart to say the least. The Trojans only signed 19 prospects in this class but likely had the highest level of quality per recruit in the entire nation – websites refer to this as ‘average star rating.’ Nearly half of this class was ranked in the AC100.

With ridiculously good running back and quarterback classes the last two seasons, those positions were largely ignored this season. Instead, on offense Pete Carroll focused on the offensive line and the pass catchers.

The 2008 Trojan O-line class may be the best group of blockers to ever head to a single school. Three – Matt Kalil (Anaheim, Calif.), Tyron Smith (Moreno Valley, Calif.), Matt Meyer (Stockton, Calif.) – are ranked in the top 83 prospects in the nation. Kalil, younger brother of current Carolina Panther Ryan Kalil, is the highest rated and has the most ideal build and talents for left tackle. Smith is the most athletic and Meyer may have the most upside. All three will be stalwarts along the offensive line. Add two massive guard prospects in Khaled Holmes (Santa Ana, Calif.) and Daniel Campbell (Aldine, Texas) and the Trojans boast the top O-line class in the nation.

Senior tight end standout Fred Davis has graduated and star recruits Patrick Turner and Vidal Hazelton have yet to pan out. So Carroll went out and addressed the outside of his offense with arguably the top tight end prospect in the nation – Blake Ayles (Orange, Calif.) – and two stellar wide receivers. D.J. Shoemate (Anaheim, Calif.) is Kalil’s teammate at Servite High and is a bigger, thicker version of Florida’s version of Percy Harvin. He can be used in the backfield as well as a pure wideout. He may end up as the best prospect in this class. Brice Butler (Norcross, Ga.) travels a long distance to get to Southern Cal. He is not as physically gifted as some other elite wide receivers but has wonderful intangibles and a great natural feel for the wide receiver position.

As impressive as the offensive class is, the defensive side of the ball may be even better. Five defensive line prospects head to Los Angeles in this class and after two of the top D-lineman in the nation graduated (Sedrick Ellis, Lawrence Jackson), the timing could not be better. Nick Perry (Detroit, Mich.) leaves the Wolverine state with the state’s single season sack record — an astonishing 36 his senior year. The 6-6, 250-pound Wes Horton (Sherman Oaks, Calif.) may have the most physical ability of all the ends. At the tackle spot, Armond Armstead (Elk Grove, Calif.) and Jurrell Casey (Long Beach, Calif.) are to big bodies that will add depth to the interior defensive line.

T.J. Bryant (Tallahassee, Fla.), a prospect that was yanked from Florida State’s grasp, anchors the small defensive back class. Former BYU pledge, Uona Kavienga (Los Angeles, Calif.) is the most talented linebacker of this class.

USC is at the top of a very short list of division one programs that have the ability to recruit nationally. Three AC100 members, one each from Georgia, Michigan and Florida, head many miles from home to play at the western powerhouse. Campbell is not an AC100 member but is still highly rated and he hails from Texas.

Top Prospect: Matt Kalil – OL – Anaheim, Calif. (6-7, 290) AC100 No. 18

Kalil, the younger brother of Ryan Kalil, former USC Trojan and NFL rookie center, is a complete tackle prospect. What made the undersized Ryan so good was his technically sound brand of football. He was as fundamentally sound as a college center could have been. If Matt is capable of being as sound in his discipline as his older brother he could be great. This is because Matt is much bigger than Ryan.

At the moment, Matt’s pass blocking is easily his strength. He does show good technique in getting his drops and shooting his hands. His good balance and quick, decisive feet allow him to mirror pass rushers very well. In the run game, knee bend and leverage will be areas of focus once Kalil gets to Southern Cal.

Best of the Rest:

Blake Ayles – TE – Orange, Calif. (6-4, 240) AC100 No. 15
Tyron Smith – OL – Moreno Valley, Calif. (6-5, 275) AC100 No. 27
T.J. Bryant – CB – Tallahassee, Fla. (6-0, 185) AC100 No. 28
D.J. Shoemate – WR – Anaheim, Calif. (6-1, 218) AC100 No. 34
Brice Butler – WR – Norcross, Ga. (6-1, 185) AC100 No. 48
Matt Meyer – OL – Stockton, Calif. (6-6, 295) AC100 No. 83
Nick Perry – DE – Detroit, Mich. (6-4, 240) AC100 No. 95
Uona Kavienga – LB – Los Angeles, Calif. (6-0, 228)
Armond Armstead – DT – Elk Grove, Calif. (6-4, 290)
Wes Horton – DE – Sherman Oaks, Calif. (6-6, 250)

Sleeper: Drew McAllister – ATH – Alamo, Calif. (6-1, 190)

It is impossible to pick a sleeper in a class full of national recruiting prospects but McAllister fits the bill. He is as polished a passer on the high school level as there is in this class. His footwork and technique are second to none. The depth chart, 2009 stud Matt Barkley, McAllister’s lack of arm strength and great athleticism will likely push him to any number of other positions, however. He is an intelligent, well-coached football player, so he will make an impact no matter where he plays.

Team Recruiting Countdown: No. 6 Georgia Bulldogs

2008-03-07T10:34:00.001-06:00

No. 6 Georgia Bulldogs (SEC No. 2)

2008 Haul: 24 signees, 3 Athlon Consensus 100

Scouting Report:

The stardom of Knowshon Moreno is only beginning to take off in Athens but with senior departures, depth in the backfield is certainly an issue. Dontavius Jackson (Franklin, Ga.) and Carlton Thomas (Frostproof, Fla.) should step in and help spell Moreno. Athlete Richard Samuel (Cartersville, Ga.) is a tremendous talent as a runner but he will probably be needed in other places. Watch out for redshirt frosh Caleb King as well.

The Bulldogs boasted one of the youngest offensive lines in the SEC last season but two key members graduated and depth is needed. Four newcomers, including Cordy Glenn (Riverdale, Ga.) and A.J. Harmon (Louisville, Ga.), head to Athens in 2008. Glenn and Harmon are big, versatile prospects. Look for Glenn to be the tackle and Harmon to be the guard. Ben Jones (Centreville, Ala.) is a needed piece at the center position.

The best area of this class is on the outside of the offense, however. The pass catchers in this class are phenomenal. A.J. Green (Summerville, S.C.) has been a star in the South Carolina prep ranks for years and now takes his game to the next level. He is arguably the top deep threat in the nation and with some added weight will be a super star in the SEC. Tavarres King (Mt. Airy, Ga.) is a wonderful compliment to Green. King is a classic open-field, slot-type receiver. He is impossible to tackle and has great speed and will also be a threat in the return game. Samuel could also end up at wide receiver. The best name in the class, Bacarri Rambo (Donaldsonville, Ga.) could also end up catching passes. He is a classic do-everything-type athlete.

Mark Richt and staff did a nice job of adding depth to all levels of the defense as well. Among the four defensive linemen signed, tackle DeAngelo Tyson (Statesboro, Ga.) and end Toby Jackson (Griffin, Ga.) have a chance to be great. Tyson is one the top tackle prospects in the nation and with some solid coaching Jackson could be a dominant beast off the edge. Cornelius Washington (Waynesboro, Ga.) could also see early time.

Four linebackers head to Athens in this ’08 group led by the tremendously athletic Marcus Dowtin (Fork Union, Va.). He is easily the most talented prospect of the group. Bulldogs fans will also be happy to finally have Akeem Hebron on campus. The talented class of 2006 linebacker comes to Athens from Gaithersburg, Md. by way of junior college in Milledgeville, Ga.

Brandon Boykin (Fayetteville, Ga.) is the most talented defensive back in the class. However, Samuel and sleeper Sanders Commings (Augusta, Ga.) could also play on the defensive side of the ball too.

The state of Georgia is always been a great state for football talent but 2008 was an exceptional year. Behind the big three – Texas, California, Florida – Georgia was likely the No. 4 talent producing state in 2008 and the Bulldogs capitalized, as did others. The usual suspects raided the Peach State (FSU, UF, S. Car, Clemson, Bama) but Georgia was so loaded in 2008 that teams like OU, USC and Notre Dame all landed top-20 prospects from the state of Georgia. The Bulldogs still ended up with 16 of the state’s top targets.

Top Prospect: A.J. Green – WR – Summerville, S.C. (6-4, 185) AC100 No. 6

A.J. Green might be the best deep threat at the wide receiver position in this year’s class. He has fabulous leaping ability and will go up and out fight defensive backs for the football. He has great ball skills, generally catching the ball at its highest point. He is at his best in the vertical passing game, stretching the defense to open up other options for the quarterback if defenses try to double-team him.

Green will need to add some weight to his lanky frame and work on his route running on the shorter and intermediate plays. For his size, he has solid after-the-catch ability but is not the shiftiest in the open field.

Best of the Rest:

Richard Samuel – ATH – Cartersville, Ga. (6-0, 200) AC100 No. 19
DeAngelo Tyson – DT – Statesboro, Ga. (6-2, 275) AC100 No. 24
Toby Jackson – DT – Griffin, Ga. (6-4, 245)
Tavarres King – WR – Mt. Airy, Ga. (6-1, 175)
Cordy Glenn – OL – Riverdale, Ga. (6-6, 310)
A.J. Harmon – OL – Louisville, Ga. (6-4, 308)
Dontavius Jackson – RB – Franklin, Ga. (5-11, 195)
Marcus Dowtin – LB – Fork Union, Va. (6-2, 218)
Brandon Boykin – CB – Fayetteville, Ga. (5-10, 170)
Cornelius Washington – DE – Waynesboro, Ga. (6-4, 220)

Sleeper: Sanders Commings – CB – Augusta, Ga. (6-1, 195)

Commings is a running back/wide receiver hybrid that excels with the ball in his hands. But much like Samuel, team needs – not talents – may decide where he plays. His size, agility and speed likely pushed this talented young athlete into the defensive backfield as a corner or safety. He is a naturally gifted runner/receiver, though, so it will be interesting to see where he ends up. One thing is assured: he will make an impact.

Team Recruiting Countdown: No. 7 Oklahoma Sooners

2008-03-06T12:02:00.000-06:00

No. 7 Oklahoma Sooners (Big 12 No. 1)

2008 Haul: 21 signees, 7 Athlon Consensus 100

Scouting Report:

The first order of business here is to congratulate Bob Stoops and the Oklahoma Sooners on their Big 12 2008 recruiting crown, a position that Stoops has found himself in regularly, considering his five conference titles in eight season as head coach in Norman.

Few teams were hurt by early departures to the NFL draft more so than the Sooners. Defensive back Reggie Smith and wide receiver Malcolm Kelly were expected but linebacker Curtis Lofton’s choice to test the NFL waters was a bit of a surprise to OU fans. This leaves the linebacker position lacking depth, at least by Oklahoma standards.

Stoops addressed the depth issue by landing three, possibly four, linebackers in this class. The group is led by JUCO signee J.R. Bryant (Garden City, Kan.) and sleeper Daniel Franklin (Mt. Airy, Ga.). Bryant brings experience and “ready to play now” ability while Franklin, with some work, could be a tackling machine for the Crimson and Cream. The wild card is Justin Johnson (Gilmer, Texas). Some recruiting sites have him listed as the No. 2 running back prospect in the nation while others see him as a linebacker.

If Johnson stays at running back, the ball carrier position in Norman should be set for years. Standout redshirt freshman DeMarco Murray returns after an explosive freshman year and Johnson is joined by fellow stud recruit Jermie Calhoun (Van, Texas) in his trip north to Oklahoma. Calhoun is the No. 2 ranked running back in nation according to the AC100. He is a complete runner. He can run between the tackles with power, turn the corner with speed, catch passes from out of the backfield and will be a solid blitz pick-up option with some teaching. Calhoun is a special player.

Stoops was not shocked by Kelly’s early departure, which is evident by the stellar wide receiver class heading to Norman in 2008. Jameel Owens (Muskogee, Okla.) was the top in-state talent in ’08 regardless of position and will be the next big star on the outside in the Big 12. Josh Jarboe (Ellenwood, Ga.) put on a show at the Under Armour Classic in Orlando and Dejuan Miller (Metuchen, N.J.) has the physical (6-6, 210) gifts to be a great deep threat. Lamar Harris (Gilmer, Texas) is likely to end up catching passes in Norman. Look for all of these talented prospects to spend one season learning behind seniors Manuel Johnson and Juaquin Iglesias (as well as the younger Adron Tennell) before their true impact is felt.

Quantity was clearly not Stoops’ main focus for this class. The quality, however, across the board, was astounding. R.J. Washington (Keller, Texas) is likely the most talented player in this class and trails only Clemson’s DaQuan Bowers in the national defensive end ranks. Stephen Good (Paris, Texas) was the top offensive line target from the state of Texas.

Washington, Good and Calhoun were the top-3 players in the state of Texas this season and all three are headed to Norman. Stoops, unsurprisingly, landed 11 total prospects from the talent rich Lone Star State.

To round out an already great class, Stoops added yet another stellar quarterback prospect. Landry Jones (Artesia, N.M.) has all the physical tools to be a ‘franchise’ player for Oklahoma. With Sam Bradford breaking NCAA single season freshman records, however, actually getting on the field is an entirely different matter.

Top Prospect: R.J. Washington – DE – Keller, Texas (6-3, 240) AC100 No. 10

Washington, who many consider the top player in the state of Texas, offers a wonderful blend of size and speed from the defensive end position. He consistently shows the ability to get to the edge and, subsequently, the quarterback. Washington may be the best edge pass rusher in the nation. In addition, he might also have the quickest first step off the line of scrimmage. He has great explosion and burst off the ball.

What makes Washington special is the complete nature of his game. Not only is he a speed rusher, he has the power and strength to dominate blockers. He will hold his point of attack well and with some added weight and bulk could be an absolute machine at the defensive end position.

Washington is simply a great athlete. He has the speed to pursue backside rollouts, the burst to get up field and around a bigger offensive tackle, and the brute force to hold his ground against powerful run blockers.

Best of the Rest:

Jermie Calhoun – RB – Van, Texas (6-0, 210) AC100 No. 8
Stephen Good – OL – Paris, Texas (6-4, 290) AC100 No. 29
Jameel Owens – WR – Muskogee, Okla. (6-3, 210) AC100 No. 45
Josh Jarboe – WR – Ellenwood, Ga. (6-3, 190) AC100 No. 63
Justin Johnson – RB – Gilmer, Texas (6-1, 210) AC100 No. 89
Landry Jones – QB – Artesia, N.M. (6-4, 225) AC100 No. 100
Stacey McGee – DT – Muskogee, Okla. (6-4, 265)
Joseph Ibiloye – DB – Garland, Texas (6-2, 195)
Ben Habern – C – Argyle, Texas (6-3, 270)
DeJuan Miller – WR – Metuchen, N.J. (6-5, 210)

Sleeper: Daniel Franklin – LB – Mt. Airy, Ga. (6-2, 215)

Blessed with a great frame, Franklin will add 15-20 pounds of strength and be a solid player for the Sooners. He is at his best when he is attacking the line of scrimmage. He does an excellent job of taking on blockers and getting through to the football. He shows nice speed and agility in pass defense but will need work in this area before he becomes a complete player.

Team Recruiting Countdown: No. 8 Florida Gators

2008-03-05T11:19:00.000-06:00

No. 8 Florida Gators (SEC No. 3)

2008 Haul: 22 signees, 7 Athlon Consensus 100

Scouting Report:

A national championship and a Heisman trophy quarterback. One would think that Urban Meyer could sit back and enjoy his successes for a moment. But the “what have you done for me lately” mantra of most athletic directors (and fans for that matter) offers little rest for the weary. Meyer certainly did not rest this recruiting season as he re-stocked his roster, once again, with top-flight talent.

For the Gators, nowhere is talent more needed than in the defensive backfield. Florida finished last in the SEC in pass defense allowing nearly 260 yards a game. Two starting freshman return but the leader, Tony Joiner, departs due to graduation. Who steps in to replace him? The best safety class in the nation. Will Hill (Jersey City, N.J.) and Dee Finley (Auburn, Ala.) are two complete players that will excel in every aspect of the safety position. They are big, physical enforcers as well as solid man-to-man defenders. Janoris Jenkins (Pahokee, Fla.), Jeremy Brown (Orlando, Fla.) and Adrian Bushell (DeSoto, Texas) will step in and compete for playing time at corner, if not add needed depth. Jenkins is the most talented of the trio.

Another way to slow down a strong passing attack is to get a great pass rush (see Super Bowl XLII). With the early departure of Derrick Harvey to the NFL, depth along the entire D-line could be used. William Green (Hoover, Ala.) is the next speed edge rusher to come through Gainesville. He will need some weight but has great quickness and power off the edge. Omar Hunter (Buford, Ga.) is a rare commodity up the middle: a defensive tackle that can play all four downs. He is built like a tank and plays the pass as well as any tackle prospect in the nation. Louisville’s Amobi Okoye is a solid comparison. Also, linebacker Brendan Beal (Bethlehem, Penn.) could be moved to end where he could use his size and strength to hold the edge.

Talent is not needed at the wideout spot in Gainesville, but 2008 was a case of the rich getting richer. Four very talented pass catchers are headed to Florida this fall, but what makes this wide receiver class so special is the balance. Carl Moore (Roseville, Calif.) is the top JUCO offensive talent in the nation. He is a Terrell Owens clone and will step in and make an immediate impact. He is supremely talented. Omarius Hines (Corsicana, Texas) is an incredibly polished, heady wideout with great hands and wonderful route running skills. He is the possession guy. Frankie Hammond Jr. (Hallandale, Fla.) is the burner that will stretch the field. He will also be a dynamic return man. Sprinkle in T.J. Lawrence (Lakeland, Fla.) and the Gators have one of the best wideout classes in the nation.

Jeff Demps (Groveland, Fla.) will, along with USC transfer Emmanuel Moody and redshirt frosh Chris Rainey, make an effort to keep Tim Tebow from taking such pronounced beatings in the run game. The Heisman Trophy winner could use all the help he can get from the running game.

If Beal is not moved to end, the linebacking corp is set for years. An already very young starting group adds great depth with Beal and Lerentee McCray (Dunnellon, Fla.).

Much has been made of the job Pete Carroll has done recruiting nationally. Urban Meyer and staff are beginning to recruit on the same level as USC. Out of the 22 newcomers in 2008, less than half are from the state of Florida. Meyer went out and signed players from 10 different states and took some kids from rival backyards. Hunter and T.J. Pridemore are both from Buford, Ga. – which is just down the road from Athens. Sam Robey is a big offensive lineman from Louisville, Ky., and Finley was snaked away from the hometown of the Auburn Tigers.

Top Prospect: Will Hill – ATH – Jersey City, N.J. (6-3, 205) AC100 No. 5

Hill has some of the quickest feet in the nation. As is the case in a lot of places, the best athlete on any given high school team will generally play quarterback. Hill played quarterback for Jersey City but will probably find himself in a different position in college. Some say safety. Some say wide receiver. Some even say in the backfield at running back.

Wherever he ends up, he will have the ball in his hands. He is impossible to tackle in the open-field and will run away from smaller defenders with his speed. This makes returning kicks a possibility, and he is an intriguing fit at safety. He is a monster in the secondary. He will take receivers heads off if they come over the middle. He has the range to play in a two-deep zone and the athletic ability to be matched-up man-to-man on the outside in blitz packages. He is simply a wonderful athlete.

Hill, named New Jersey’s Offensive Player of the Year, threw for 947 yards and seven touchdowns while rushing for 960 yards and 19 touchdowns in 2007.

Best of the Rest:

Matt Patchan – T – Seffner, Fla. (6-6, 275) AC100 No. 31
Omar Hunter – DT – Buford, Ga. (6-0, 300) AC100 No. 41
Dee Finley – S – Auburn, Ala. (6-3, 210) AC100 No. 53
William Green – DE – Hoover, Ala. (6-4, 220) AC100 No. 60
Brendan Beal – LB – Bethlehem, Penn. (6-4, 240) AC100 No. 71
Janoris Jenkins – CB – Pahokee, Fla. (5-11, 180) AC100 No. 74
Omarius Hines – WR – Corsicana, Texas (6-1, 185)
Lerentee McCray – LB – Dunnellon, Fla. (6-2, 205)
Jeff Demps – ATH – Groveland, Fla. (5-8, 170)
Carl Moore – WR – Roseville, Calif. (6-4, 220)*

Sleeper: Frankie Hammond – WR – Hallandale, Fla. (6-0, 165)

If there is such a thing as a much-publicized sleeper, then Hammond is it. This kid has speed to burn. He will be an instant impact player in the return game and with his blinding speed, Hammond will find his way onto the field in some capacity next season. He will need a good deal of work on learning the wide receiver position but has plenty of physical ability.

* - Sierra C.C.

Team Recruiting Countdown: No. 9 Clemson Tigers

2008-03-04T13:32:00.001-06:00

No. 9 Clemson Tigers (ACC No. 2)

2008 Haul: 26 signees, 4 Athlon Consensus 100

Scouting Report:

When Tommy Bowden and staff sat down last season and pinpointed their top recruiting targets for the 2008 class, a defensive end from Bamberg, S.C. was likely the name at the top of the board. DaQuan Bowers is the top defensive prospect in the nation, trailing only Terrelle Pryor and Julio Jones in the Athlon Consensus 100. The Tigers got their guy and he is the cornerstone of this great Clemson class.

It seems every off-season Clemson loses four offensive lineman to graduation. The Tigers had to replace four starters heading into the ’07 season and have again lost four senior lineman. Tommy Bowden did a great job of adding depth to the offensive line landing four talented blockers. In-state, he landed the big Kenneth Page (Columbia, S.C.) and Dalton Freeman (Pelion, S.C.). He also dipped into the heart of Crimson Tide country and snagged Antoine McClain (Anniston, Ala.). McClain is a versatile prospect that could play anywhere along the line and is best of the group.

This 2008 class is balanced with solid talent at nearly every position. The Tigers did not land a large number of any one position (defensive back had the most) but the ones they did get are of high quality.

The offensive skill position players really illustrate this point. Clemson landed two quarterbacks but Kyle Parker (Jacksonville, Fla.) – a Todd Reesing look-a-like – will challenge Willy Korn for playing time once Cullen Harper departs.

Only two running backs are headed to Clemson but both are wonderfully talented. Jamie Harper (Jacksonville, Fla.) is the No. 3 running back prospect in the nation and Andre Ellington (Moncks Corner, S.C.) showed great speed and open field agility at the Under Armour Classic. These two will be the next James Davis-C.J. Spiller combo out of the backfield.

The pass catching recruits are the same story. Only two wide receivers and one tight end head to Death Valley in ’08 but they are good. Brandon Ford (Hanahan, S.C) and Marquan Jones (Blythewood, S.C.) will pick up where Aaron Kelly and Jacoby Ford leave off. Dwayne Allen (Fayetteville, N.C.) will be a great all-around tight end. Clemson stole Allen away from Georgia shortly before Signing Day.

If there is one position that Clemson made sure to add depth to, it was the defensive backfield. The Tigers landed five prospects including star safety Spencer Adams (Matthews, N.C.) and sleeper corner Xavier Brewer (Jacksonville, Fla.).

The Tigers also lose two starting linebackers in Nick Watkins and Tremaine Billie. Jonathan Willard (Loris, S.C.), Tarik Rollins (Hollywood, Fla.) and Stanley Hunter (Duncan, S.C.) will add needed depth to the linebacking corp.

Sitting right next to the state of Georgia and within a few hours from Florida, Clemson has some nice built in recruiting territories. The Tiger staff certainly did well in the surrounding areas landing nine kids from Florida and three from Georgia. The Jacksonville area was particularly kind to Clemson, sending five prospects from the city to the ACC program.

Bowden also took advantage of a strong year in-state and landed 10 home grown prospects including big names like Bowers, Page, Ford and Ellington.

Top Prospect: DaQuan Bowers – DE – Bamberg, S.C. (6-4, 260) AC100 No. 4

The big defensive end is lightning quick off the snap. When he fires off low he gets so much momentum around the corner it is incredibly hard to keep him out of the backfield. He also has a strong motor and never stops attacking. His game is very loud — a nice way to say he destroys people.

He could use some work on his technique when playing with a lot of debris at his feet. If offensive lines are smart they will attack his legs. He can be overpowered on the end by bigger offensive tackles. Added weight will help remedy this. He is such an incredible athlete that, with strong coaching, Bowers could be the next in a run of great defensive end prospects at Clemson (Gaines Adams, Phillip Merling etc.)

Bowers, with weight, could end up inside at tackle also. With a 25-30 pound bump, he would be a dynamic tackle prospect who could play all three downs.

Best of the Rest:

Jamie Harper – RB – Jacksonville, Fla. (6-0, 215) AC100 No. 49
Brandon Thompson – DT – Thomasville, Ga. (6-2, 295) AC100 No. 81
Antoine McClain – OL – Anniston, Ala. (6-6, 320) AC100 No. 93
Andre Ellington – RB – Moncks Corner, S.C. (5-10, 175)
Dwayne Allen – TE – Fayetteville, N.C. (6-4, 245)
Kyle Parker – QB – Jacksonville, Fla. (6-0, 195)
Spencer Adams – S – Matthews, N.C. (6-2, 190)
Kenneth Page – OL – Columbia, S.C. (6-4, 290)
Brandon Ford – WR – Hanahan, S.C. (6-4, 208)
Dalton Freeman – OL – Pelion, S.C. (6-6, 280)

Sleeper: Xavier Brewer – CB – Jacksonville, Fla. (5-10, 175)

Aggressive. That is the best term used to describe Xavier Brewer. He plays a fast, attacking style of football. He shows great quickness and fluidity, especially getting into and out of his breaks. He has all the tools to be a lockdown corner but what makes Brewer special is his ability to play the run. He fills hard and with complete disregard for his body.

Team Recruiting Countdown: No. 10 Michigan Wolverines

2008-03-03T12:39:00.000-06:00

No. 10 Michigan Wolverines (Big Ten No. 2)

2008 Haul: 24 signees, 3 Athlon Consensus 100

Scouting Report:

No program in America lost more big time talent to graduation than the Michigan Wolverines. They lost a ton of experience on offense, including four-year starters at quarterback (Chad Henne), running back (Mike Hart), O-line (Jake Long/Adam Krauss) and wideout (Mario Manningham started for all three years). The defense took a hit up the middle as well, losing linebackers Shawn Crable and Chris Graham along with safety Jamar Adams.

Oh, and they are replacing one the winningest coaches in Big Ten history, too. Rich Rodriguez’s first order of business is to find a starting quarterback. Local product and Georgia Tech ‘quasi-transfer’ Steve Threet may be the answer. If not, Rodriguez may be scrounging the student section at the Big House for someone to throw the football.

Every other position on the offense has been addressed. Five offensive line prospects head to Ann Arbor including Dann O’Neill (Grand Haven, Mich.) and Ricky Barnum (Lakeland, Fla.). O’Neill dominated in Orlando at the All-Star classic and have scouts thinking Jake Long clone. Barnum, a signing day switch from the Gators, is in the conversation for top center prospect in the nation.

The offensive skill positions are restocked as well. Four running backs, three wide receivers and two tight ends round out a stellar offensive class for Michigan. Carlos Brown and Brandon Minor will likely assume the starting tailback job but depth is no longer an issue. Mike Shaw (Trotwood, Ohio), Terrence Robinson (Klein, Texas) and Sam McGuffie (Cypress, Texas) are three versatile prospects. Shaw gets the tough yards and has a solid, well-rounded game. Robinson, who was overshadowed at Klein by Texas’ DeSean Hales, could play quarterback, running back or slot receiver. McGuffie is the most intriguing of the three. He grew up a gymnast and can do things on a football field that few kids can. He will be an immediate impact player on special teams in the short passing game.

The pass catchers, Darryl Stonum (Sugar Land, Texas), Roy Roundtree (Trotwood, Ohio) and Martavious Odoms (Pahokee, Fla.), will look to step in and help replace Manningham and Adrian Arrington. Stomun is clearly the most gifted and has a very similar game to that of the departed Super Mario.

Kevin Koger (Toledo, Ohio) and Brandon Moore (Trotwood, Ohio) are two very talented tight ends. Moore may have more upside and Koger could end up at defensive end, but each have plenty of talent.

The linebacker position is also well represented in this class. All four prospects are talented and will see time on special teams.

Michigan has done a great job of recruiting nationally. Texas, Florida and New Jersey have played major roles in recent years in supplying the Big Blue with talent. Michigan landed three prospects from each of those states in 2008. They also dipped into South Carolina, Indiana and Connecticut for players.

Ohio will always be a staple of Wolverine recruiting and 2008 was no exception. Seven prospects from the Buckeye state head north to Ann Arbor. Madison High School in Trotwood, Ohio sent three prospects alone to Michigan (Shaw, Roundtree, Moore)

Top Prospect: Dann O’Neill – OL – Grand Haven, Mich. (6-7, 290) AC 100 No. 69

There are not many people who are 6-7 and nearly 300 pounds and can run like O'Neill. He has great athleticism and quick feet for a player of his size. He is very comfortable in open space and can be used much like Joe Thomas was at Wisconsin: pulling and lead blocking on the outside. He has that kind of versatility.

Aside from his athleticism, O’Neill has a great frame and attitude. His big, rangy body has room to add strength and bulk. He has a terrific motor and will block until the whistle blows. He is ready to help the run game immediately as he shows great drive and power. Once he polishes his pass protecting skills, Michigan fans could be looking at another Jake Long.

O’Neill went up against top-level competition in Orlando at the Under Armour All-American game and performed extremely well.

Best of the Rest:

Darryl Stonum – WR – Sugar Land, Texas (6-2, 190) AC 100 No. 46
Boubacar Cissoko – CB – Detroit, Mich. (5-9, 175) AC 100 No. 52
Marcus Witherspoon – LB – Absecon, N.J. (6-2, 220)
Sam McGuffie – ATH – Cypress, Texas (5-10, 185)
Terrence Robinson – RB – Klein, Texas (5-9, 175)
Brandon Smith – ATH – New Brunswick, N.J. (6-3, 210)
J.B. Fitzgerald – LB – Princeton Junction, N.J. (6-4, 225)
Ricky Barnum – C – Lakeland, Fla. (6-3, 260)
Kevin Koger – TE – Toledo, Ohio (6-4, 240)
Mike Shaw – RB – Trotwood, Ohio (6-0, 185)

Sleeper: Roy Roundtree – WR – Trotwood, Ohio (6-0, 170)

Roundtree is another prospect that has too solid of an all-around game to not be successful in college. He shows solid route running ability, above average hands, great toughness and nice acceleration. He gets off the line quickly and simply makes plays. He was another signing day theft as he had been committed to Purdue previously.

Team Recruiting Countdown: No. 11 Texas Longhorns

2008-02-29T09:50:00.002-06:00

No. 11 Texas Longhorns (Big 12 No. 2)

2008 Haul: 20 signees, 5 Athlon Consensus 100

Scouting Report:

Mack Brown and the Longhorn coaching staff have turned recruiting into an everyday chore. They have gone out and recruited so well over the past five years that there are no glaring areas of weakness on this roster. Brown has to be commended for the wonderful job he does year in and year out on the recruiting trail and 2008 is no exception.

With the early departure of Jamaal Charles to the NFL, the running back spot is one position that could use some depth. Vondrell McGee has basically staked his claim on the starting spot, so Texas fans should not expect any of the incoming freshmen to start. It is one of the most talented running back classes in the nation, however, so there should be some impact. Of the five ’08 running back prospects Texas signed, DeSean Hales (Klein, Texas) and Jeremy Hills (Alief, Texas) are the two to watch out for. Both are smaller backs that can explode for the big play at any time. Hales is a more complete runner and is certainly the future of the running back spot for the Horns.

On the outside, the Horns bring in two more big, rangy pass catchers. Dan Buckner (Allen, Texas) is the most physically gifted prospect in this class and is not shy about making sure his opponents know it. The verbose Buckner has the tools to back his mouth up, though. D.J. Grant (Austin, Texas) should be another talented, lanky target for future Longhorn quarterbacks.

For all the NFL talent that has been in the Texas’ secondary over the past few seasons (four NFL first day picks and one to be this April), the pass defense has struggled. Texas finished 10th in the Big 12 in pass defense and 99th and 109th nationally in each of the last two seasons. Aaron Williams (Round Rock, Texas) and D.J. Monroe (Angleton, Texas) will look to change that recent trend. Williams is as solid a defensive back prospect as any in the nation and could play corner or safety. Monroe is small but makes up for his lack of size with tremendous tenacity and speed. Nolan Brewster (Denver, Colo.), the son of a coach, is a heady addition to the defense. He is a classic safety/linebacker tweener and should make a big impact wherever he ends up.

The Longhorns added three linebacker prospects as well – not counting Brewster. Dravannti Johnson (Nederland, Texas) headlines this group. With most of the starting spots already accounted for, do not expect any immediate impact from this group.

Along the offensive line, two stellar prospects are headed to the Forty Acres. David Snow (Gilmer, Texas) and Mark Buchanan (Austin, Texas) look to continue Texas’ tradition of strong offensive line play.

As expected, Mack Brown made his living in the football crazed state of Texas once again. All but one prospect in this class is from the Lone Star State (Brewster-Colo.)

Top Prospect: Dan Buckner – WR – Allen, Texas (6-4, 210) AC100 No. 40

As has been stated many times, the 2008 class is loaded will big, fast wide receivers. Buckner fits the mold perfectly. He uses his huge wingspan to high point most passes. He uses tenacious ball skills and solid leaping ability to outwork defensive backs for most balls thrown his way. He will be a great red zone target. Buckner shows great body positioning and control; playing in traffic does not phase the big wideout.

He is at his best in the vertical passing game, using his size and leaping ability to beat smaller corners. He has solid straight-line speed but will never be a slot-type, open-field playmaker. He will, though, make an immediate impact in the deep passing game and in the red zone.

Most of the time, Buckner’s physical ability is a huge advantage. At times, however, he can be too physical. He will need to be careful when putting his hands on smaller defensive backs. Officials on the next level will not be as kind as the Texas high school zebras.

Buckner’s fabulous ball skills were on display in the U.S. Army All-American Bowl when he made a spectacular touchdown reception over Boubacar Cissoko. He is the next in a recent line of big, powerful NFL-type wide receivers (Roy Williams, Limas Sweed).

Best of the Rest:

Aaron Williams – Round Rock, Texas (6-1, 180) AC100 No. 62
Jarvis Humphrey – DT – Cedar Hill, Texas (6-2, 295) AC100 No. 64
DeSean Hales – RB – Klein, Texas (5-10, 165) AC100 No. 77
D.J. Monroe – CB – Angleton, Texas (5-9, 170) AC100 No. 87
David Snow – OL Gilmer, Texas (6-4, 300)
Dravannti Johnson – LB – Nederland, Texas (6-2, 230)
D.J. Grant – WR – Austin, Texas (6-3, 200)
Nolan Brewster – DB – Denver, Colo. (6-1, 200)
Jeremy Hills – RB – Alief, Texas (5-10, 180)
Mark Buchanan – OL – Austin, Texas (6-6, 280)

Sleeper: Antoine Hicks — ATH — Mansfield, Texas (6-3, 200)

Watching film on this young athlete, one thing is very apparent: he is a playmaker. No matter what position he plays, look for Mack Brown to put the ball in his hands. He is impossible to tackle in the open field. His position in high school was quarterback. He is very familiar with the ever-so-popular spread-zone-read-option that won a national championship in Austin three years ago. He also throws a nice deep ball so it would not be shocking to see him get reps at quarterback.

Team Recruiting Countdown: No. 12 Florida State Seminoles

2008-02-28T11:54:00.000-06:00

No. 12 Florida State Seminoles (ACC No. 3)

2008 Haul: 30 signees, 3 Athlon Consensus 100

Scouting Report:

2008 marked a bit of a shift in recruiting philosophy for Bobby Bowden and his staff. In previous season, Bowden relied heavily on closing strong with a few Signing Day upsets to land a top-10 class. This season, they went out early in the recruiting calendar and put together a strong class right from the start.

Offensive line help was an obvious priority. It seems that the offensive line has received the most flack for the downturn in FSU football in recent years, and rightly so. The running game has been anemic and the O-line has been porous to say the least. Bowden and staff landed six prospects in this class to help fix this problem. Offensive line guru Rick Trickett recruits a smaller, more agile lineman for his system. Seminole fans will have to wait and see if these lower ranked prospects really fit his system better than the top talents in the nation. Zebrie Sanders (Clayton, Ohio) is the only highly ranked blocker in this class.

The other issue on this team has been the offensive skill position players. Where are the Anquan Boldin’s and Javon Walker’s of the world? This class should remedy that issue. Jarmon Fortson (Columbus, Ga.) is a star in the making and has performed on every big stage he has played on. JUCO wideout Corey Surrency (Torrence, Calif.) is also ready to come in and contribute immediately. FSU went a long way for the play-making A.J. Alexander (Altoona, Penn.) and fans will not be disappointed.

At running back, the ’Noles landed arguably the top JUCO running back in the nation. Tavarres Pressley (Torrence, Calif.) looks as close to Darren McFadden on film as any recruit has in the past few seasons. He has explosiveness that few players demonstrate on a football field. He can score from anywhere on the field. Look for Pressley to immediately upgrade the mediocre tailback situation.

One thing that has never been an issue for Florida State is the defense. Once again, the Seminoles reload. JUCO talent Markus White (El Dorado, Kan.) and Everett Dawkins (Duncan, S.C.) should be the next two in a long line of talented FSU D-lineman. A pair of Nigel’s will get their shot at continuing the long-standing tradition of linebackers in Tallahassee. Nigel Bradham (Crawfordville, Fla.) and Nigel Carr (Jacksonville, Fla.) are both special athletes and will be the next two stars on the FSU defense.

Two very talented quarterbacks stepped onto campus a short time ago and have not met expectations. Drew Weatherford and Xavier Lee never lived up to recruiting hype, but the quarterback coming in this season is the real deal. E.J. Manuel (Virginia Beach, Va.) is as talented a player at the quarterback position since Adrian McPherson. The major difference? Manuel is an incredibly mature young man. He is a smart kid and is already a strong leader on and off the field – something McPherson clearly lacked.

Florida State has once again proved its national appeal. Yes, they landed 15 talented kids from the recruiting behemoth that is the state of Florida. But the ’Noles went into 10 other states for players. They landed four from Georgia, two each from California and Pennsylvania and one each from Kansas, Virginia, Tennessee, Alabama, South Carolina, Ohio and New Jersey.

Top Prospect: E.J. Manuel – QB – Virginia Beach, Va. (6-4, 220) AC100 No. 21

Of all the quarterbacks in the 2008 class, Manuel might be the most ready to play high-level football the earliest. Mentally he is a pure leader — on and off the field. He goes through his progressions very naturally. He also has supreme talents. He has a strong arm and can make every throw on the field. But unlike most quarterbacks coming into college, the shorter touch pass is not a struggle for Manuel. (Watch film of Matt Stafford at Georgia his freshman year) Touch is something very few high school kids really have.

Manuel might also be the most mobile pro-style quarterback to come out of high school in some time. He has learned very early how to ‘run-to-throw’ instead of running to run. Steve Young perfected it.

He will need some time under center as he has been in the shotgun most of his young career. Jimbo Fisher will also be able to fix his throwing mechanics. He needs only to add consistency.

Best of the Rest:

Nigel Bradham – LB – Crawfordville, Fla. (6-2, 227) AC100 No. 14
Nigel Carr – LB – Jacksonville, Fla. (6-3, 224) AC100 No. 59
Zebrie Sanders – OL – Clayton, Ohio (6-5, 280)
A.J. Alexander – ATH – Altoona, Penn. (6-0, 180)
Jarmon Fortson – ATH – Columbus, Ga. (6-3, 220)
Everett Dawkins – DE – Duncan, S.C. (6-2, 250)
Terrance Parks – CB – Fairburn, Ga. (6-1, 200)
Moses McCray – DT – Tampa, Fla. (6-1, 270)
Tavarres Presley – RB – Torrence, Calif. (6-0, 210)*
Corey Surrency – WR – Torrence, Calif. (6-4, 210)*

Sleeper: Avis Commack – WR – Jacksonville, Fla. (6-4, 190)

This long, lanky prospect is solid all-around player. He is not great at any one thing but does everything well. He has good hands, runs decent routes, shows deceptive speed – both with and without the ball – and has the size to be an impact player in the vertical passing game. Commack could give the higher ranked wideouts in the class a run for their money.

* - El Camino C.C.

Team Recruiting Countdown: No. 13 LSU Tigers

2008-02-27T12:38:00.002-06:00

No. 13 LSU Tigers (SEC No. 4)

2008 Haul: 26 signees, 3 Athlon Consensus 100

Scouting Report:

Les Miles picked up right where Nick Saban left off. He stock piled talent for a few years and turned it into a National Championship. Barring a trip to the NFL, Miles should have a nice roster for years to come. Although not star-studded, the 2008 LSU recruiting class is none-the-less loaded once again.

With the decisions to return by Derry Beckwith and Tyson Jackson, the front seven on defense should again be very tough. The offensive front needed to be addressed, however. Miles succeeded by landing six potential blockers up front as well as two, possibly three, tight ends. Greg Shaw (Miami, Fla.) and local product Clay Spencer (Baton Rouge, La.) lead a deep group of offensive lineman. The versatile Matt Branch (Monroe, La.) could end up as a tackle or tight end. Chase Clement (Thibodaux, La.) could end being a star at either tight end or defensive end.

The secondary also took a hit to graduation. Chevis Jackson, Craig Steltz, and Jonathan Zenon are all going to try their hand at the NFL. Two Florida products should help remedy the depth in the defensive backfield. Patrick Johnson of Pompano Beach and Karnell Hatcher of Delray Beach are possibly the best two prospects in this class and should immediately shore up the secondary.

LSU has no shortage of playmakers on the outside. Demetrius Byrd, DeAngelo Benton and Terrance Tolliver signed with LSU in last year’s class. This year’s version is very similar. Benton, originally from Bastrop, La., had to attend Hargrave Military Academy last season in order to get his qualifying grades. Now, he heads back to Louisiana as a member of the ’08 class. There is a Tolliver in this class as well. Chris Tolliver (Rayville, La.) is lightning quick and can separate as well as any receiver in this well-documented 2008 wide receiver class. LSU should again be loaded at wideout.

With Ryan Perrilloux’s ability to get suspended, leadership from the signal caller position may be the biggest issue on this football team in 2008. ’07 recruit Jarrett Lee and Jordan Jefferson (Destrehan, La.) could see some early reps with the first team this summer if things continue on their destructive path with Perrilloux.

LSU does not quite have the inherent recruiting advantages as schools in Texas, Florida or California but it might be a close fourth. The state of Louisiana always produces talent and 2008 was no exception. The Bayou Bengals landed 14 in-state talents. It is the ability for the Tigers to dip into powerhouse states of Florida and Texas that makes recruiting to LSU so successful. Miles landed four kids each, including its top two prospects, from the Lone Star and Sunshine States.

Don’t look now, but the state of Louisiana is loaded in 2009. Look for LSU to really focus on its home territory next season.

Top Prospect: Patrick Johnson — CB — Pompano Beach, Fla. (6-1, 195) AC100 No. 9

Very rarely does a prospect have Johnson's combination of size and speed at the corner position. It is especially important at this position for two reason. First, the size and speed of the wide receiver, in the 2008 class in particular, is getting to be ridiculous. The days of the 5’7” cornerback are slowly fading. Second, generally speaking, the cornerback is the least coached position coming out of high school. The natural instincts are really on display at the corner position in high school.

Johnson has great speed, solid ball skills and ideal size. He can also be a great offensive weapon; he is athletic enough to be given the ball on an end around for example. He does a solid job while tackling in the open field. He breaks down properly. He will, however, need to work on playing low. His body type and big frame make it harder for him against the smaller slot wideouts.

The manner with which he handled the recruitment process raises questions about where his head is located. He has superior physical tools but will he be able to maintain focus?

Best of the Rest:

Chancey Aghayere – DE – Garland, Texas (6-4, 245) AC100 No. 42
Chris Tolliver – WR – Rayville, La. (6-1, 185) AC100 No. 72
Chase Clement – TE/DE – Thibodaux, La. (6-5, 240)
Karnall Hatcher – S – Delray Beach, Fla. (6-2, 195)
Jordan Jefferson – QB – Destrehan, La. (6-4, 200)
Matt Branch – TE/OL – Monroe, La. (6-6, 240)
Ryan Baker – LB – Blountstown, Fla. (6-0, 210)
Brandon Taylor – DB – Franklinton, La. (5-11, 180)
DeAngelo Benton – WR – Chatham, Va. (6-3, 195)
Greg Shaw – OL – Miami, Fla. (6-6, 280)

Sleeper: Kyle Prater — LB — Kerrville, Texas (6-2, 220)

Prater is an attacking, versatile prospect from the linebacker spot. He could end up at either inside or outside backer. In the middle is where he is likely to play due to his ability to flow through traffic. He does a great job of moving through debris and getting to the ball carrier. He also shows great diagnosis ability and has high football IQ.

Team Recruiting Countdown: No. 14 UCLA Bruins

2008-02-26T10:22:00.001-06:00

No. 14 UCLA Bruins (Pac-10 No. 2)

2008 Haul: 23 signees, 3 Athlon Consensus 100

Scouting Report:

Maintaining class stability was likely the first task of new head coach Rick Neuheisel when he arrived in Westwood. Therefore, keeping Dwayne Walker employed as defensive coordinator could be the most productive move Neuheisel will make this offseason. Many of the talented recruits in this class were open about the fact that they would decommit from UCLA if Walker was not a hold over. He stayed and the kids remained true to their word and signed with the Bruins.

This offense was devoid of playmakers last season. The 2008 class is loaded with big play threats. At the running back spot Aundre Dean (Katy, Texas), Milton Knox (Lake Balboa, Calif.), Jonathan Franklin (Los Angeles, Calif.) and Derrick Coleman (Fullerton, Calif.) take a point of weakness for the Bruins and turn it into a major strength. Dean is clearly the most talented and should see the field very early. Coleman is a bit of a sleeper and is more of a fullback than running back. He runs very hard and is a beast to tackle.

Although not star studded, the wide receiver spot is loaded with talent. Again, this spot on Neuheisel’s roster was a point of weakness. They certainly have options now. Nelson Rosario (Oceanside, Calif.), Antwon Moutra (Culver City, Calif.) and Jerry Johnson (Venice, Calif.) are all 6-3 or taller and will be instant impact players on the outside. Cory Harkey (Chino Hills, Calif.) could dramatically overachieve his recruiting rankings.

The defensive backfield was also a point of major concern for this recruiting class. As a result, the Bruins landed what is possibly the best secondary class in the nation. Anthony Dye (Corona, Calif.) and Aaron Hester (Compton, Calif.) could be the starting cover corner combo for the years to come in Los Angeles. E.J. Woods (Encino, Calif) is a human missile from his safety spot and Rahim Moore (Los Angeles, Calif.) might be the fastest safety prospect in the nation. The defensive backfield will be in good hands for the next few seasons.

Depth along both lines was also needed. The offensive line will be a major focus of next year’s recruiting class as the Bruins only landed two prospects in 2008. The defensive line was addressed, at least on the outside. Damien Holmes (Colton, Calif.) and Datone Jones (Compton, Calif.) project as the next set of bookends for the Bruins.

Neuheisel, the former UCLA quarterback, has three quality signal callers coming in this class. The 6-5 JUCO Kevin Craft (Walnut, Calif.), the 6-3 Nick Crissman (Huntington Beach, Calif.) and 6-2 Kevin Prince (Encino, Calif.) will all add depth to a position that was riddled by injuries a season ago.

The kicker of the future for the Bruins is Jeff Locke (Phoenix, Ariz.). Locke is the No. 2 kicker prospect in the nation.

It is no surprise that 21 of 23 prospects (Dean-Texas and Locke-Ariz.) in this class are from California. USC can’t sign them all, right?

There is a clear jump in level of recruiting class with this UCLA class. The top-14 are elite classes and a cut above everyone else in the nation.

Top Prospect: Aundre Dean – RB – Katy, Texas (6-1, 200) AC100 No. 54

This upright running back is a great inside-outside threat. He is very comfortable running between the tackles and is physical enough to pick-up the dirty yards. He also has great lateral quickness and burst out of his cuts. Dean has a nasty stutter step move that he uses to get to the edge. He does not have elite speed but rarely gets caught from behind. He uses his quickness and acceleration to mask his lack of top-end speed.

Dean’s cuts have no wasted movements as he plants and goes as quickly as any running back in this class. He is also a threat out of the backfield in the passing game. He has solid hands and good enough ball skills to be an impact player in the screen/swing passing game.

His running style is the only worry. He runs very upright much like the former Colorado Buffalo Chris Brown, Oklahoma’s Adrian Peterson and Arkansas’ Darren McFadden. All of those runners have dealt with injury issues their entire careers.

Best of the Rest:

Rahim Moore – DB – Los Angeles, Calif. (6-1, 190) AC100 No. 51
Aaron Hester – CB – Compton, Calif. (5-11, 190) AC100 No. 99
E.J. Woods – S – Encino, Calif. (6-1, 210)
Anthony Dye – CB – Corona, Calif. (5-11, 180)
Datone Jones – DE – Compton, Calif. (6-4, 250)
Nick Crissman – QB – Huntington Beach, Calif. (6-3, 200)
Milton Knox– RB – Van Nuys, Calif. (5-9, 200)
Damien Holmes – DE – Colton, Calif. (6-4, 250)
Jerry Johnson – WR – Venice, Calif. (6-3, 190)
Nelson Rosario – WR – Oceanside, Calif. (6-5, 210)

Sleeper: Cory Harkey – TE – Chino Hills, Calif. (6-4, 240)

This could have been the big, bruising runner Derrick Coleman from Fullerton, Calif. However, the lack of depth at the tight end spot makes Harkey a prime sleeper candidate. He is a solid pass catcher already. With some added weight to his big frame and development of blocking skills, Harkey could end up being a solid all-around prospect. Make no mistake, however, this kid will have an early impact in the passing games, especially in the red zone.

Team Recruiting Countdown: No. 15 Colorado Buffaloes

2008-02-25T10:42:00.001-06:00

No. 15 Colorado Buffaloes (Big 12 No. 3)

2008 Haul: 21 signees, 3 Athlon Consensus 100

Scouting Report:

Despite some early struggles, Dan Hawkins has the Colorado Buffaloes trending upward again. This team was one of the youngest in the Big 12 last season if not the country, so there is a lot returning on the field. Buffs fans can only continue to be optimistic, as off the field, the 15th ranked recruiting class is heading to Boulder this fall.

The 2008 Colorado recruiting class is headlined by the first elite prospect to show up on our countdown. Darrell Scott (Ventura, Calif.) is arguably the best running back in the nation and is likely to win the starting job right away. If Scott does not start, Hawkins did a strong job of creating depth in the backfield since Hugh Charles left. Ray Polk (Phoenix, Ariz.) leaves the sunny desert landscapes for the mountains and snow of Colorado. He will also see some carries as a true freshman.

It is one of the best running back recruiting classes in the nation.

The second strongest position in the class is easily the linebackers. Loaded with two AC100 members, Lynn Katoa (Salt Lake City, Utah) and Jon Major (Parker, Colo.), as well as one of the top JUCO linebackers (Shaun Moehler – Costa Mesa, Calif.), this linebacking crop is also one of the best positional classes in the nation. It could not come at a better time as the team’s leading tackler and defensive leader Jordan Dizon has graduated.

Back in the 80s, Bill McCartney found out that if he kept Colorado kids at home, he could win a national championship. Of course, he had to dip into Texas and California too, but the Centennial state provided the foundation for a title team. Dan Hawkins did a great job last season of keeping in state kids home, something his predecessor could not do (see Calais Campbell and LenDale White). Although not a particularly deep year in Colorado, Hawkins still pulled some talent. He landed the most important players - three of the states’ top four.

It is also no surprise that Hawkins went into California and had success. He landed seven prospects from the Golden Coast. Boulder does have a unique advantage in the Big 12 as it is the western most city in the conference. California will have to be fertile ground for the Buffs if they expect to continue to build the program under Hawkins. Scott obviously headlines this group but Moehler, Max Tuioti-Mariner (Corona, Calif.) and Ryan Deehan (Poway, Calif.) round out a really strong group of California prospects heading east to Boulder.

Top Prospect: Darrell Scott – RB – Ventura, Calif. (6-1, 212) AC100 No. 3

Darrell Scott is the most complete running back prospect in the nation. He has not only the durability, size and power to run between the tackles 20-25 times a game but also the speed and agility to get to the outside and beat defenders to the edge. He shows exceptional feet for a bigger back and has great balance and power for a guy who can play in the open field. He has great vision and patience while allowing his blocks to develop. Scott is also one of the better receivers out of the backfield in this class.

Scott rushed for 3,194 yards and 45 touchdowns his junior year.

Scott has lived in Florida, Texas and California, so he has played against top-flight competition his entire career. Colorado freshman wide receiver Josh Smith is Scott’s uncle but is more like his brother as they lived together in Ventura. This relationship will be a key factor in where Scott ends up.

Scott is the first elite prospect to show up on the top-25 class countdown.

Best of the Rest:

Jon Major – LB – Parker, Colo. (6-4, 230) AC100 No. 65
Lynn Katoa – LB – Salt Lake City, Utah (6-2, 225) AC100 No. 76
Ryan Deehan – TE – Poway, Calif. (6-4, 230)
Bryce Givens – OL – Denver, Colo. (6-6, 275)
Ray Polk – RB – Phoenix, Ariz. (6-0, 195)

Sleeper: Max Tuioti-Mariner – OL – Corona, Calif. (6-4, 300)

Okay, so Mariner probably should be in the ‘Best of the Rest’ section but he is dramatically underrated so ends up as a sleeper. This kid should be in the top-75 regardless of position but because he is likely to play guard he ends up lower. In addition, he may not come into camp at 100 percent but if he is healthy he is a good bet to get some playing time. He has a nasty, killer instinct and looks to demolish defenders.

Team Recruiting Countdown: No. 16 Oregon Ducks

2008-02-22T10:59:00.000-06:00

No. 16 Oregon Ducks (Pac-10 No. 3)

2008 haul: 20 signees, 0 Athlon Consensus 100

Scouting Report:

Offensive skill positions were likely the top focus of the Oregon Duck coaching staff this recruiting season. They certainly have options now. Chris Harper (Wichita, Kan.) is one of the most versatile prospects in the entire nation. He has the body of a tight end or linebacker but the skill set of a quarterback or wide receiver. Look for him to have the ball in his hands. Lack of depth at the wide receiver spot, combined with three graduating seniors will push Harper into a pass catching role of some sort.

The running back spot, however, is now a loaded position for the Ducks. JUCO freight train LaGarrette Blount (Scooba, Miss.) will come in right away and press for time. Backing him up will be the speedy LaMichael James (Texarkana, Texas). James’ 180 pounds are the lighting to Blount’s 230 pounds of thunder. Watch out for return specialist and open field dynamo Kenjon Barner (Riverside, Calif.).

Dion Jordan (Chandler, Ariz.) will need work as a blocker but is ready to step in and be a contributor in the passing attack.

Bellotti only landed two offensive line prospects but they are good ones. Nick Cody (Brush Prairie, Wash.) has one of the most remarkable stories to tell and is an incredibly grounded young man. He has great size and killer instinct in the trenches. Hamani Stevens (Hemet, Calif.) is arguably the best center prospect in the nation.

On defense, JUCO tackle Justin Thompson (Torrance, CA) and linebacker DeWitt Stuckey (Stockton, Calif.) could both see playing time in their first seasons in Eugene.

What is so impressive about this class is the ability to recruit nationally. The Ducks landed four kids from Texas and one each from Kansas, Mississippi, Arizona, and Georgia. Don’t forget, Oregon is still a player in the Terrelle Pryor sweepstakes. Although its unlikely the Ducks land Pryor, it is still a testament to Mike Bellotti and his staff for even being involved with the top player in the nation, who is nearly 3,000 miles away in Pennsylvania.

As usual, Oregon did well in California, landing 10 prospects from the west coast state. Oregon landed only one prospect from its home state: Scott Grady (Tigard, Ore.).

Top Prospect: Darron Thomas – ATH – Aldine, Texas (6-4, 195)

This could have been Chris Harper. The two will likely battle for playing time at the quarterback position with the loser moving to another position. The edge goes to Thomas due to the fact that he is a better passer and is already on campus working in the Chip Kelly system.

Thomas is a difference maker on the ground from the quarterback position. He is a thicker version of Dennis Dixon and is a perfect fit in the spread-zone-read-option offense. He has incredibly fast feet and gets from 0-60 in no time at all. He does not have a strong arm but does show nice accuracy and touch on his passes.

Best of the Rest:

Chris Harper – ATH – Wichita, Kan. (6-2, 230)
Dion Jordan – TE – Chandler, Ariz. (6-6, 220)
Nick Cody – OL – Brush Prairie, Wash. (6-5, 290)
Hamani Stevens – OL – Hemet, Calif. (6-4, 285)
LeMichael James – RB – Texarkana, Texas (5-9, 185)

Sleeper: Kenjon Barner – RB – Riverside, Calif. (5-10, 170)

If LaGarrette Blount is Owen Schmidt and LaMichael James is Steve Slaton, then Barner is Oregon’s version of Noel Devine. He may be small but he is impossible to catch, much less tackle. He will be an immediate impact performer in the return game and in garbage time. He is a home run threat anytime he touches ball. His feet are lighting quick and can accelerate to full speed very quickly.

Team Recruiting Countdown: No. 17 Washington Huskies

2008-02-21T11:15:00.000-06:00

No. 17 Washington Huskies (Pac-10 No. 4)

2008 haul: 26 signees, 1 Athlon Consensus 100

Scouting Report:

After three losing seasons under Ty Willingham, Washington Husky fans have something to smile about. The emergence of the Tim Tebow of the west – Jake Locker – has given hope to U of W fans. Willingham needed to give him some help, though. The 2008 recruiting class did just that.

To protect his young star at quarterback, the Huskies landed six offensive lineman, including the massive Alameda Ta’amu (Seattle, Wash.) who checks in at 6-2 and at least 335 pounds. Allen Carroll (Oakland, Calif.) and Senio Kelemete (Seattle, Wash.) round out one of the top offensive line classes in the Pac-10.

This class is also chalk full of pass-catching options for Locker. Kavario Middleton (Lakewood, Wash.) could end being the top tight end prospect in the nation, if he isn’t moved to defense. Chris Polk (Redlands, Calif) is a dynamic player on the outside and was once a USC commit (so he must be good). Jermaine Kearse (Lakewood, Wash.) and Vince Taylor (Issaquah, Wash.) add much needed depth to the receiving corp. Cody Bruns (Prosser, Wash.) might be the most interesting, however. He lacks the physical tools of his fellow pass catching recruits but was arguably the most productive wide receiver in the history of high school football in this country. Just for safe measure, the Huskies landed three running backs as well.

The offense should be very potent for the coming years. The defense, however, is a different story. Washington ranked 107th in the total defense last season and needs upgrades at nearly every position, defensive end in particular. Willingham did a solid job at the end position with Everrette Thompson (Burien, Wash.) and potentially Middleton – who is also a very good defensive prospect. Three linebackers and three defensive backs will attempt to sure up a porous back seven.

Overall, Willingham and staff did a marvelous job of upgrading the talent on offense. The defense is more of a question mark, though. Fans will have to wait and see if the Husky defense improves in 2008.

As expected, the state of California was a fertile proving ground for the Huskies. They landed nine prospects from the Golden State including the very talented Carroll and Polk.

In addition, if Washington expects to compete in the very difficult Pac-10, they needed to close down the borders of their own state and keep talent at home. They did so in 2008 by landing 12 of the top 15 prospects in the state of Washington.

Top Prospect: Kavario Middleton – TE/DE – Lakewood, Wash. (6-6, 250) AC100 No. 44

Middleton has the physical ability to be the best tight end in the nation for 2008. He also has the ability to be a dynamic defensive end as well. He should play on offense, however. He has wonderful receiving skills and has no fear whatsoever about going over the middle to make the tough catch. Middleton will also be a go-to red zone target as he uses his massive 6-6 frame to out-leap smaller defenders for the ball. He has solid hands and nice ball skills.

Middleton is not just an end zone, possession-type receiver at the tight end position. He has some athleticism too. Al la Ben Troupe at Florida, Middleton once leaped over an opposing defensive back who was making a poor effort at a tackle in the open field. This athleticism is what defensive coordinators love about his D-line potential.

His pass-catching ability, big-play skills and red zone dominance should place him in the offensive huddle, though. As a blocker, he has the potential to be very productive. A little work here and there should clean his technique up a bit and allow him to be a solid blocker.

Best of the Rest:

Everette Thompson – DE – Burien, Wash. (6-5, 240)
Chris Polk – ATH – Redlands, Calif. (6-0, 200)
Allen Carroll – G – Oakland, Calif. (6-4, 290)
Alameda Ta’amu – G – Seattle, Wash. (6-2, 335)
Senio Kelemete – T/DT – Seattle, Wash. (6-4, 270)

Sleeper: Cody Bruns – WR – Prosser, Wash. (5-11, 185)

Bruns is a classic over-achiever. He is too small and too slow to be a big time recruit, but he simply does whatever it takes. His level of production is unprecedented in high school football as he set a national record for receptions with 304 catches for 5,080 yards and 72 touchdowns. That’s getting the job done. He is an incredibly heady player who has a great natural feel for the game.

Team Recruiting Countdown: No. 18 Texas A&M Aggies

2008-02-20T14:26:00.000-06:00

No. 18 Texas A&M Aggies (Big 12 No. 4)

2008 Haul: 24 signees, 2 Athlon Consensus 100

Scouting Report:

The biggest issue in College Station in 2008 will be the switch in offensive philosophy. The power option attack of Coach Franchione had a tough time recruiting certain positions that involved the forward pass – wide receivers, quarterbacks etc. That should no longer be an issue for the Aggies. Mike Sherman steps in with a 10-plus win-per-season NFL resume and a love of the West Coast offense. It paid off immediately.

Playmakers on the outside have been missing for the Aggies for sometime but they addressed that by stealing big Jeff Fuller (McKinney, Texas) from Oklahoma and landing Derrick Hall (Beaumont, Texas). The future of the quarterback and running back spots are secure as Sherman landed quarterback Tommy Dorman (North Richland Hills, Texas) and Cyrus Gray (DeSoto, Texas). Dorman is more of a drop back passer and will fit the new offensive system in College Station once Stephen McGee graduates. Gray is a home run threat and will be a star in the Big 12.

The other main area of concern for Texas A&M was the defensive front. This class surely has added depth to the defensive line as the Aggies landed eight D-line prospects (three tackles, five ends). Big tackle Roderick Davis (Aldine, Texas) and the explosive Andrew Wolridge (Lexington, Texas) headline this group of defenders. Kyle Mangan (Brenham, Texas) leads a group of three linebackers headed to A&M.

All but two of the 24 incoming freshman are from the state of Texas. JUCO defensive end Matt Moss (El Cajon, Calif.) and the versatile athlete K.J. Williams (Norman, Okla.) are the only two prospects in this class not to play their most recent football in the state of Texas.

Top Prospect: Cyrus Gray – RB – DeSoto, Texas (5-11, 185) AC100 No. 61

Gray is quite the opposite of his counterpart Jonas Gray. Cyrus is about 30 pounds lighter than Jonas and is more of a speed back rather than a power runner. He lined up predominately as a quarterback, taking the shotgun snap and running with the ball. His natural open-field running ability is outstanding. He shows great vision and cut-back ability, exploding into creases and slashing through defensive front sevens. He can be a home run threat from the running back position.

For a speed back, Gray is very comfortable between the tackles. He uses his explosion and vision to find holes and squeak through with great quickness. Because he is smaller in stature, though, his penchant to run with a mean streak will catch up to him in college. Gray is a hard worker in the weight room, so he should be able to strengthen his lower body. An aspect he will have to improve, if he expects to run with the same intensity that made him so successful in high school.

Best of the Rest:

Jeff Fuller – WR – McKinney, Texas (6-4, 205) AC100 No. 92
Rod Davis – DT – Aldine, Texas (6-2, 300)
Derrick Hall – WR – Beaumont, Texas (5-11, 200)
Andrew Wolridge – DE – Lexington, Texas (6-3, 240)
Tommy Dorman – QB – North Richland Hills, Texas (6-3, 205)

Sleeper: Anthony Hyde – OT – Colleyville, Texas (6-6, 290)

Coach Fran and his running attack always required smaller, more athletic offensive lineman. With the implementation of the West Coast offense, a big-time left tackle is a necessary commodity. Hyde is just that. He has ideal left tackle size and is surprisingly athletic. He has the frame to add weight and strength while still maintaining his quick feet. He will need to adjust to playing in a pro-style offense as he used very unusual splits and formations in high school.

Team Recruiting Countdown: No.19 Minnesota Golden Gophers

2008-02-19T09:44:00.002-06:00

No. 19 Minnesota Golden Gophers (Big Ten No. 3)

2008 Haul: 30 signees, 0 Athlon Consensus 100

Scouting Report:

A 1-11 football team has no business recruiting a top-20 class, right? Well, that is precisely what Tim Brewster and his staff has done at Minnesota. The Gophers, a team that lost to North Dakota State in 2007, did not have many bright moments last season. Brewster has ensured that that is likely to change in ’08.

Of course, the high-energy coach did have one thing to offer recruits: early playing time — and lots of it. Minnesota’s defense finished dead last in the nation last season giving up 518 yards-per-game. Nearly every spot on the defense needs upgrading and Brewster certainly brought in some options.

Safety Keanon Cooper (Dallas, Texas), linebacker Sam Maresh (Champlin, Ill.) and eight JUCO prospects should help bolster that porous defense. The group is headlined by linebacker Rex Sharpe (Yuma, Ariz.), defensive back Traye Simmons (Visalla, Calif.) and athlete David Pittman (Pasadena, Calif.). The infusion of JUCO talent should help bridge the gap between the outgoing seniors and the incoming freshmen.

The offense was not nearly as pathetic as the defense. In fact, Adam Weber put up solid numbers at the quarterback position. He loses his top pass catcher and tailback, though. Brewster addressed this by landing four – potentially six – wide receivers and three, possibly four, running back prospects. Wideouts Brandon Green (Chicago, Ill.) and Vince Hill (New Berlin, N.Y.) could see time right away, as could running back Kevin Whaley (Virginia Beach, Va.).

Tim Brewster was a key component for the Texas Longhorns when recruiting Vince Young. His roots in Texas have paid off in the land of 10,000 lakes. Minnesota landed five kids from Texas including four from Skyline High in Dallas. It could be the start of a pipeline for the Gophers.

One major issue for the future must be addressed, however. The Gopher state looks to be loaded in 2009 and Brewster and company must do a better job of keeping the top kids home. Ohio State (Willie Mobley), Notre Dame (Mike Floyd) and Wisconsin (Brandon Kelly/Joe Schafer) came in and took four of the top five from the state in 2008.

Top Prospect: MarQueis Gray – QB – Indianapolis, Ind. (6-4, 220)

Gray could be as dynamic a threat from the quarterback position as there is in this class. This slightly smaller version of Terrelle Pryor is lighting quick from out of the backfield. He can accelerate into gaps and make people miss in the open field much like Pryor. He is not quite as fluid as Pryor in the open field but is just as athletic.

He might even be a better passer. He does not have the touch that Pryor has but may have a stronger arm and throw a prettier ball. He has a snap release that is quick and efficient. He will need to develop as a college passer, learning how to read coverages and make adjustments at the line of scrimmage. Overall, he is a perfect fit for the spread offense that Tim Brewster is installing in Minneapolis.

Best of the Rest:

Keanon Cooper – DB – Dallas, Texas (6-0, 195)
Brandon Green – WR – Chicago, Ill. (6-0, 175)
Sam Maresh – LB – Champlin, Minn. (6-2, 240)
Kevin Whaley – ATH – Virginia Beach, Va. (5-10, 175)
Vince Hill – WR – New Berlin, N.Y. (6-0, 195)

Sleeper: Troy Stoudermire – ATH – Dallas, Texas (5-11, 180)

Stoudermire, one of the four Skyline High products heading north, will be an instant impact player for the Gophers. He is a versatile prospect, playing quarterback in a zone read scheme for high school, but projecting as a corner, running back or slot receiver. His quickness, change-of-direction ability and speed are at an elite level. He is dynamic in the open field with the ball in his hands. He will be a factor in the return game as well.

Team Recruiting Countdown: No. 20 Illinois Fighting Illini

2008-02-18T13:52:00.006-06:00

No. 20 Illinois Fighting Illini (Big Ten No. 4)

2008 Haul: 28 signees, 0 AC100

Scouting Report:

After a two-win season in 2006, a few eyebrows were raised when Ron Zook and the Illini landed a top-15 class last season. After a nine-win season and a Rose Bowl bid, it should not be a surprise that the 2008 recruiting class is once again in the top-20. Although not nearly as star-studded as last season, this class still has a lot of nice pieces.

Illinois still has the ability to offer very early playing time to true freshmen at a variety of positions. This is, and will always be, a big draw for young talent from around the nation. Nearly every position on this team could use depth or an upgrade. It doesn’t help that the Illini lose a large group of upper class defenders this season.

Losing three of four starting defensive backs has created spots for young secondary prospects to come in and compete for playing time right away. Patrick Nixon (Jacksonville, Fla.) and Tavon Wilson (Washington, D.C.) add depth to the corner spot. Nixon will compete for the starting job right away. A pair of in-state talents will try to replace J Leman at middle linebacker: Nate Palmer (Chicago, Ill.) and Supo Sanni (Homewood, Ill.). Defensive tackle Reggie Ellis (Washington, D.C.), the top player from the D.C. area, should step in and help bolster the defensive line.

After two great season from Rashard Mendenhall, the running back position needed to be addressed in this class. Jason Ford (Belleville, Ill.) and Mikel LaShoure (Champaign, Ill.) could also see the field early in ’08. Other than Arrelious Benn, Juice Williams does not have many pass catching options on the outside. That will no longer be an issue. Cordale Scott (Cleveland, Ohio) and Alfred Jenkins (Jacksonville, Fla.) could both play early and often. Illini fans, do not forget about Florida Gator transfer Jarred Fayson too.

Once again, Ron Zook and staff have done a great job scouring the nation for talent. Illinois landed four kids from Florida, four from Ohio, three from Pennsylvania and one each from Georgia and North Carolina. The Washington, D.C. area has been the bailey wick of assistant coach Mike Lockley’s recruiting efforts. Lockley has seen much success in the area with names like Vontae Davis and Benn. In 2008, the Illini landed four nice prospects from the District of Columbia.

Top Prospect: Corey Luiget – DE – Hialeah, Fla. (6-4, 260)

Versatility comes to mind when dealing with Mr. Luiget. He lined up at quarterback, tight end, wide receiver and defensive end in high school. The athleticism is apparent for a player of his size. He has solid feet and drive, using good power and strength in both run and pass situations. He will be able to pursue backside with his speed and agility.

He is still raw, however. His pad level, hand technique, stance, tackling form and get off will all need refinement. These are all things that can be corrected with solid coaching. His natural athletic ability, strength, agility for a prospect with his size and frame are un-teachable. Luiget, Reggie Eillis and last season’s prize recruit Martez Wilson should create a formidable group within the defensive front.

Best of the Rest:

Hubie Graham – TE – Scranton, Pa. (6-4, 230)
Graham Poisac – OL – Lemont, Ill. (6-6, 310)
Cordale Scott – WR – Cleveland, Ohio (6-3, 205)
Patrick Nixon – CB – Jacksonville, Fla. (6-0, 180)
Reggie Ellis – DT – Washington, D.C. (6-2, 290)

Sleeper: Alfred Jenkins – WR – Jacksonville, Fla. (6-0, 180)

Playing time has always been a major selling point for Ron Zook and his staff. The state of Florida has also been a great asset to the Illini staff. Jenkins brings these aspects together as the Jacksonville native will press for playing time as soon as he gets to campus. He is a big play threat, particularly in the vertical passing attack. Solid hands, great acceleration/speed combined with good body control and open field wiggle put this kid on the field immediately in Champaign.

Team Recruiting Countdown: No. 21 Arizona State Sun Devils

2008-02-15T12:10:00.001-06:00

No. 21 Arizona State Sun Devils (Pac-10 No. 5)

2008 Haul: 27 signees, 1 Athlon Consensus 100

Scouting Report:

The Sun Devils had a difficult time protecting the quarterback in 2007, giving up 55 sacks for nearly 400 lost yards. They ranked 117th in the nation in sacks allowed. Needless to say, offensive line was an area of focus. The Sun Devils landed five promising o-lineman, headlined by big Zach Schlink (Peoria, Ariz.). Schlink is a versatile prospect who could play tackle or guard.

In a conference that is loaded with potent passing attacks, strong secondary play and a solid pass rush are a must. ASU addressed both of those areas landing six defensive backs and six defensive lineman. Safety/athlete Jarrell Barbour (Peoria, Ariz.) will be a big time force in the defensive backfield for the next few years in Tempe. The inside-outside combination of defensive end Jamaar Jarrett (San Marcos, Calif.) and tackle Lawrence Guy (Las Vegas, Nev.) should really bolster the defensive line.

The most talented group in this class is the offensive skill position players. Wide receiver prospects Kemonte Bateman (Los Angeles, Calif.) and Gerell Robinson (Chandler, Ariz.) will be difference-makers on the outside. Both are incredibly blessed with the physical tools to be game changers on the perimeter. The Sun Devils also got their running back of the future in Ryan Bass (Corona, Calif.). Bass is a wonderful blend of strength and speed.

Although not a highly ranked prospect, one quarterback prospect certainly catches the eye. Jack Elway, son of NFL legend John Elway, visited campus in the fall and committed on the spot. The elder Elway visited with him and by simply being there, helped to convince other prospects to join the Sun Devil band wagon.

Arizona State played the recruiting game very well and signed 14 of his 27 future players from the state of California. Five of those prospects came from one high school: the very prominent Centennial High in Corona, Calif. That is called a pipeline.

In classic Erickson style, Arizona State signed five junior college players as well.

Top Prospect: Gerell Robinson – ATH – Chandler, Ariz. (6-4, 215) AC100 No. 79

Robinson has the body and size of an outside linebacker but he moves like a smaller wide receiver. With the team needs in the defensive secondary, a move to safety is a possibility. His real potential will be on offense at the wideout position. He can be amazing with the ball in his hands.

Robinson combines tremendous athletic ability with quickness and football smarts. He is a very well-spoken kid who still remains very raw. At the moment he uses great intangibles and instincts, combined with sheer athleticism to make plays. He will need to work on refining his game; learning the subtle nuances of the wide receiver position may take a redshirt year. He is more prepared to play safety now, but the upside at wide receiver could be too high to pass up.

Best of the Rest:

Kemonte Bateman – WR – Los Angeles, Calif. (6-1, 185)
Ryan Bass – RB – Corona, Calif. (5-10, 190)
Jarrell Barbour – DB – Peoria, Ariz. (6-3, 195)
Lawrence Guy – DT – Las Vegas, Nev. (6-6, 280)
Zach Schlink – OL – Peoria, Ariz. (6-4, 300)

Sleeper: Jamaar Jarrett – DE – San Marcos, Calif. (6-6, 240)

This young defensive end prospect is a beast in along the line of scrimmage. He is not overly explosive or speedy but has great size and plays with solid all-around technique. He would fit perfectly in a 3-4 scheme where a bigger, more physical player role is needed on the outside edge. Jarrett has the frame to add some 25-30 pounds, which could turn him into an Adam Carricker power-type defensive end.

Team Recruiting Countdown: No. 22 Virginia Tech Hokies

2008-02-14T10:34:00.002-06:00

No. 22 Virginia Tech Hokies (ACC No. 4)

2008 Haul: 31 signees, 1 Athlon Consensus 100
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Scouting Report:

Wide receiver was most likely the top priority for the Hokies in 2008 as Frank Beamer saw his top two targets – Eddie Royal and Josh Morgan – depart. Whether the person throwing the football is Sean Glennon or Tyrod Taylor, he should have a deep group of possible targets. The Hokies landed six wide receivers in this class as well as a few athletes that could develop into offensive weapons. D.J. Coles (Goochland, Va.), Austin Fuller (Richlands, Va.) and Derrick McCoy (Amherst, Va.) add needed depth. Two athletes, however, might end up as the best wideout prospects – Dyrell Roberts (Smithfield, Va.) and Marcus Davis (Virginia Beach, Va.) are going to be two very big, physical targets for the Hokies.

Offensive line was also an area of concern. The Hokies added three promising youngsters to their O-line corp. Nick Benton (Wilmington, N.C.) and Vinston Painter (Norfolk, Va.) have massive frames and are likely the future bookend tackles for Frank Beamer and Co.

With the departure of Vince Hall and Xavier Adibi, depth in the linebacking corps was a must. Longtime Hokie defensive coordinator Bud Foster certainly has some options after signing five linebackers in this class. The group is headlined by Bruce Taylor (Myrtle Beach, S.C.) and Quillie Odom (Chatham, Va.). Taylor is very raw but has the size and potential to be a solid inside linebacker. Odom is more prepared to play today, however, and has more physical ability.

The state of Virginia has always been a very talented football state and 2008 was no exception. The Hokies took advantage and landed 24 prospects from home. That is the definition of protecting your borders.

The top prep program in the nation is Hargrave Military Academy in Chatham, Va.. Beamer and staff did a nice job of scouring the prep ranks for three prospects. Linebacker Quillie Odom, athlete Kendrick Pressley and defensive end Leon Mackey all are headed to Blacksburg from the Chatham institution.

Top Prospect: Ryan Williams – RB – Manassas, Va. (5-10, 195) AC100 No. 38

This Steve Slaton clone has a well-rounded game. This comparison comes from Williams’ surprising power for a 195-pound runner. He is not afraid to initiate contact and runs behind his pads. He also has, like Slaton, home run-threat ability. He can make defenders look silly in the open field. His quick, short-space bursts and acceleration are top flight. He uses a short, choppy running style to get to the corner and go the distance.

Williams will also be a major threat in the passing game. He is very confident in a pass-catching role and will really put pressure on linebackers assigned to cover him man-to-man. He has the ability to get vertical and stretch defenses even from out of the backfield.

His burst was on display in San Antonio at the U.S. Army All-American Bowl, where Williams showed nice open-field quickness. He outran some top-level prospects.

Best of the Rest:

Vinston Painter – OT – Norfolk, Va. (6-5, 300)
D.J. Coles – WR – Goochland, Va. (6-4, 200)
Bruce Taylor – LB – Myrtle Beach, S.C. (6-3, 230)
Nick Becton – OT – Wilmington, N.C. (6-6, 290)
Lorenzo Williams – CB – Fayetteville, N.C. (6-2, 195)

Sleeper: Marcus Davis – ATH – Virginia Beach, Va. (6-4, 220)

Davis may end up at safety or the Bud Foster coined ‘rover’ position but he clearly has the size to be a dominant presence with the ball in his hands. He has great feet and open field moves for a kid of his size. He is surprisingly fluid and could be a dynamic threat in the passing attack for years to come in Blacksburg.

Team Recruiting Countdown: No. 23 Pittsburgh Panthers

2008-02-13T12:02:00.003-06:00

No. 23 Pittsburgh Panthers (Big East No. 1)

2008 Haul: 19 signees, 3 Athlon Consensus 100

Scouting Report:

With one of the worst offenses in the Big East in 2007, skill position players that can make big plays and stretch the field were a definite area of concern. Pitt certainly addressed this need. Jonathan Baldwin (Aliquippa, Pa.) is a special talent that could play tight end or wide receiver. An athletic 6-6 outside threat is tough to find; he starts from day one. Jarred Holley (Easton, Pa.), Cameron Sadler (Monroeville, Pa.) and Mike Shanahan (North Huntington, Pa.) will all add playmaking ability to the offense. Sadler is a tiny prospect but can take it the distance on any play. He will be an impact player in the return game as well.

Dave Wannstedt is losing two bookend tackles in Jeff Otah and Mike McGlynn along the offensive line and Lucas Nix (Jefferson Hills, Pa.) will fill that void right away. Nix has the potential to play on both defense or offense. With his athletic ability, size and solid feet, offensive tackle will be his destination.

Is Pat Bostick the future of Panther football at the quarterback position? He may be, but just in case he isn’t, the former NFL Coach of the Year landed a nice pair of signal callers. Greg Cross (Brunswick, Ga. by way of Fort Scott, Kan.) and Tino Sunseri (Pittsburgh, Pa.) will push Bostick for the reigns of the newly revamped Panther offense. Cross has more play-calling experience and can make plays with his legs.

The next big star in the Pitt defensive front will be Shayne Hale (Monroeville, Pa.). He played linebacker in high school but could be a terror off the edge as a defensive end. His closing speed is astonishing.

All in all, the Pitt staff once again has done a great job recruiting, especially in the fertile grounds of the Keystone State. Fourteen of the 19 signees call Pennsylvania home. Now, Pitt fans need to see all this talent translated into wins.

Top Prospect: Jonathan Baldwin – TE/WR – Aliquippa, Pa. (6-6, 220)

There has been some debate about where Baldwin (AC100 No. 16) will end up in college. Some scouts say he will be a wide receiver. If The ’Stache decides to move him outside, he will be sacrificing one of the major aspects of Baldwin’s game: inline blocking. He is an outstanding blocker. When dealing with pass-catching tight ends in this class, he is easily the best blocker of the bunch.

Baldwin’s athleticism is what makes scouts think wide receiver, though. He has great size and vertical leaping ability. He will go up and make the circus catch — which was evident in the U.S. Army All-American Bowl, when he leaped over a defender to snag a long touchdown bomb. He has great straight-line speed for a player of his size.

Baldwin will be a dynamic red zone threat no matter what position he ends up at.

Best of the Rest:

Shayne Hale – LB/DE – Monroeville, Pa. (6-4, 240) — AC100 No. 55
Lucas Nix – OL – Jefferson Hills, Pa. (6-6, 300) — AC100 No. 35
Chris Burns – RB – New Wilmington, Pa. (5-10, 190)
Cameron Sadler – ATH – Monroeville, Pa. (5-7, 165)
Antwuan Reed – CB – Johnstown, Pa. (5-10, 180)

Sleeper: Jarred Holley – ATH – Easton, Pa. (5-10, 180)

If Jonathan Baldwin is the bigger, vertical threat, Holley will be the slot man. He will be very effective in the short passing game working around the line of scrimmage on bubble screens and quick routes. He also has the potential to return kicks and/or play defense at the corner back position.

Team Recruiting Countdown: No. 24 Auburn Tigers

2008-02-12T14:26:00.002-06:00

No. 24 Auburn Tigers (SEC No. 5)

29 signees, 0 Athlon Consensus 100, 2 JUCOS

Scouting Report:

The biggest change for this football team could be in the offensive design. Auburn hired former Troy offensive coordinator Tony Franklin in order to implement the spread offense. Does the current roster give him the pieces needed to do that? At quarterback, Kodi Burns could be that guy, but if not, athlete Deron Furr (Columbus, GA) could fill that roll. He is lightning quick from out of the backfield. The only major question is can he throw the ball in high division-1 football?

Upgrading the depth in the defensive backfield was also a must in this class and Tommy Tuberville certainly accomplished that. He and his staff landed six potential defensive backs. T’Sharvan Bell (Kissimmee, FL) plays a great high point safety. Add Christian Thompson (Ft. Lauderdale, FL) and Marcus Jemison (McCalla, AL) and the safety position is well stocked. At corner, D’Antoine Hood (Phenix City, AL) and Neiko Lipscomb (Tucker, GA) add needed depth on the outside. Lipscomb could turn out to be the best player in this class.

After losing three out of four starters along the defensive line, Tuberville added two potential stars in Raven Gray (Wesson, MS) and Cameron Henderson (Birmingham, AL).

Auburn also did a great job of adding depth to the backfield with three talented prospects. This running back class is very balanced; Onatario McCalebb (Ft. Meade, FL) is the shifty speedster while Eric Smith (Seffner, FL) will be the bruising short yardage guy. Reggie Hunt (Daphne, AL) is also a nice looking player.

Top Prospect:

Ontario McCalebb – RB – Ft. Meade, FL (5-10, 170)

This was a tough call as this class lacks the clear elite prospect. Furr, Henderson and Bell were also options here. Make no mistake, this little running back prospect is a versatile athlete. Defense is a possibility but it is most likely that he will have the ball in his hands. McCalebb is a home run threat every time he touches the ball. He uses effortless open field moves and great speed to get to the edge and make people miss.

He obviously is going to need some bulk and weight if he expects to be a full-time running back in the SEC. However, in the new Tony Franklin spread, McCalebb will be a perfect fit. He will be used a lot out of the backfield in the passing game. His dynamic athletic ability in space is ideal for the quick, short passing game.

Best of the Rest:

Raven Gray – DE – Wesson, MS (6-4, 260)*
Jermaine Johnson – OT – Chatham, VA (6-6, 305)**
Deron Furr – ATH – Columbus, GA (6-3, 212)
Cameron Henderson – DE – Irondale, AL (6-5, 235)
T’Sharvan Bell – ATH – Kissimmee, FL (6, 175)

Sleeper:

Neiko Lipscomb – DB – Tucker, GA (6-2, 180)

This tall, lanky prospect has legitimate potential for three positions (WR, CB, S). Team needs will likely push him to the defensive perimeter. His size is more of that of a safety but he has that rare fluidity for a taller prospect. He is comfortable in press situations as well as zone schemes. He could be a future star for the Tigers.

* - Copiah-Lincoln Community College (JUCO)
** - Hargrave Military Academy (Prep School)

Team Recruiting Countdown: No. 25 Missouri Tigers

2008-02-11T10:09:00.000-06:00

Every week day for the next five weeks, Athlon Sports (otherwise know as me) will be counting down its top-25 recruiting classes. Today we begin with...

No. 25 Missouri Tigers (Big XII No. 5)

23 signees, 1 Athlon Consensus 100

Scouting Report:

Chase Daniel is heading into what should be an incredibly productive senior year with the Tigers. Gary Pinkel had to go out and get his signal caller of the future and he did just that. Of course, it helps that Ballwin, Missouri, quarterback Blaine Gabbert is likely the best quarterback prospect from the state of Missouri in quite sometime. To top it off, landing Gabbert was a double-edged sword as not only does Missouri get their guy but they stole him from Nebraska. Gabbert had been a Nebraska pledge prior to the coaching turnover in Lincoln.

The two other areas of concern were offensive line and secondary. This year’s class has five offensive line prospects including future left tackle Dan Hoch (Harlan, IA). Pinkel looked South to Texas to add defensive backs. Cornerbacks Kip Edwards (Arlington, TX) and Robert Steeples (St. Louis, MO) paired with the undersized and underrated safety combo of Kenji Jackson (Mansfield, TX) and Zavier Gooden (Pflugerville, TX) should give some needed depth to the defensive backfield.

Gary Pinkel and staff also did a great job of replenishing their offensive skill position players. The Tigers complex offense needs a lot of pieces and this class certainly affords options. Tight end Andrew Jones (Smithville, MO), former Wisconsin commit Wes Kemp (St. Louis, MO), wide receiver Rolandis Woodland (Cincinnati, OH) and dynamic athlete Gahn McGaffie (Galena Park, TX) all could be future play makers in the wide open Tigers’ attack.

Missouri continues to utilize the great state of Texas as the Tigers landed 11 prospects from the Lone Star state in the ’08 class.

Top Prospect:

Blaine Gabbert – QB – Ballwin, MO (6-5, 225)

Gabbert, AC100 No. 32, has prototypical size for the quarterback position. He has an arm that can make every throw in the playbook. He is patient and confident in the pocket. His mechanics are strong, and he has a nice, compact release. He is a very solid pocket passer.

His skills do not end there, however. Gabbert also is a nice athlete. He also shows a great ability to avoid pressure and move around in the pocket. He will be a nice fit in the Gary Pinkel spread look, where the quarterback has always been an impact player on the ground.

Gabbert played nearly his entire senior year with a shoulder injury. He was limited to only 102 pass attempts.

Best of the Rest:

Andrew Jones – TE – Smithville, MO (6-5, 225)
Dan Hoch – OT – Harlan, IA (6-6, 300)
Gahn McGaffie – ATH – Galena Park, TX (5-10, 170)
Wes Kemp – WR – St. Louis, MO (6-4, 220)
Aldon Smith – DE – Raytown, MO (6-6, 230)

Sleeper:

Drew Temple – Kansas Ciy, MO (5-9, 190)

The younger brother of recently graduated Tony Temple, Drew Temple could end up being a star in Columbia. He runs much harder and tougher than his size would indicate. He is a solid blocker and a good pass catcher. Although not very big and without elite speed, Temple still possesses the perfect skill set needed to succeed in Pinkel’s spread offense.

Terrelle Pryor: Ohio St, Penn St, Michigan

2008-02-09T11:59:00.000-06:00

I will be very happy when Terrelle Pryor finally ends this nonsense that has been his recruitment process. Yes, it is the most important decision he will likely make in his life but it is time to end the suspense.

There is only one thing that really matters: where will Terrelle Pryor go to college?

Two words: Ohio State.

The Buckeyes have been the leading candidate for Mr. Pryor since day one. Not only that but it is a perfect fit. He will be used in exactly the same fashion as Timmy Tebow was used his freshman year in Gainesville. Expect Pryor to get 75-100 snaps next season as Todd Boeckman finishes his career at OSU in Chris Leak like fashion. The Buckeyes kept some very talented defensive players from leaving early and will be loaded on defense, much like the Gators of two years ago. He will have a chance at a national title in year No. 1.

Lets consider the hoops angle. Yes, he says basketball will not even be an option. But you know, just in case, a recent No. 1 overall pick and national championship appearance isn't bad to have in your back pocket.

Not to mention Mike Adams, one of the best offensive line prospects in the nation, said during a Signing Day interview that Pryor will be headed to Columbus. The quarterback's coach at Jeannette High has too, in fact, given his "endorsement" of The Ohio State.

National title chance. Top-flight hoops program. Great rushing attack to back you up. OSU has been the leader since the beginning. His coach says its the Buckeyes. His friends and fellow recruit say OSU.

Terrelle Pryor is going to play football at The Ohio State University.

I would personally like to see him at Oregon - for a variety of reasons, some of which will remain unspoken - but it will not happen. Unfortunately, he would have been a blast to watch play in that Chip Kelly offense, but its not likely.

Terrelle, I have already figured it out. You can go ahead and sign now, lets end this thing and make it official.

Having said all of that, something is up. That fact that a father and son had not sat down one time in the last two years and compared college choices is unfathomable. You mean to tell me, the first time the No. 1 prospect in the nation and his father ever spoke about where they wanted him to go was the night before Signing Day? Something isn't right. I have no proof of anything; I have no inside information. But the logical train of thought is pretty clear. We will have to wait and see.

Hey, THE Reggie Bush just lost a settlement case with a former financier. He had to pay him back his money.

2008 Sleepers

2008-02-08T11:58:00.000-06:00

The term role player has long been regarded as one with negative connotations. On a basketball court, it’s a scrappy, less-talented ball player who can do a little bit of everything. On a baseball diamond, it’s the utility infielder who will play any position you ask him to.

In recruiting classes, the “role players” can end up being stars.

Yes, the top-notch, five-star type players are needed if one expects to win a national championship in college football these days. But staying competitive in today’s NCAA landscape means developing talent better than the next guy. That is where the two-and three-star players come in. They are the underlying foundation of depth on conference championship teams.

Just ask Oklahoma, Ohio State, Alabama, West Virginia or Wisconsin.

The Buckeyes and Crimson Tide both had linebackers recently who were not only high draft picks but are now NFL stars: A.J. Hawk and DeMeco Ryans. Both were three-star prospects coming out of high school.

Oklahoma’s record-setting freshman quarterback, Sam Bradford, was not a big-time recruit.

Pat White and Steve Slaton were both asked to play other positions – by LSU and Maryland respectively – coming out of high school until Rich Rodriguez and WVU gave them a shot in the backfield. Next season, White is likely to become the NCAA’s all-time leading rusher from the quarterback position.

Wisconsin’s bruising tailback P.J. Hill was a two-star fullback and nine defensive starters for the Badgers were ranked three-stars or lower coming out of the prep ranks.

So who are those sleepers this season? Here are some mid-level prospects who might have a chance at being stars for their school of choice:

Darius Ashley        Cincinnati, OH    RB    5’9” 190    Louisville

This kid also was the leader and main factor on a state championship football team. This was the highest division of play in Ohio, though, so no small feat. He is tough. He is fast and he wins. Steve Kragthorpe and company got a nice player in Ashley.

Willie Bohannon        Mobile, AL        DE    6’3” 240    Tennessee

Bohannon has the size/speed combination that is so valuable to defensive coordinators. He has great pass rush ability as well as lateral quickness in the run game. He played very physical football in the Alabama-Mississippi All-Star Classic. Now all John Chavis has to figure out is where to play him.

Cody Bruns            Prosser, WA        WR    5’11” 185    Washington

This little over-achiever is going to be a great receiving option for Husky quarterback Jake Locker. He is just a bit too short and just a bit too slow, right? Well, Bruns simply gets the job done. He set national high school career receiving records with 304 career receptions for 5,080 yards and 72 touchdowns. He is too smart a player not to be successful.

Alfred Jenkins        Jacksonville, FL    WR    6’ 178        Illinois

There is no secret that freshmen will be given the shot to play at Illinois. Jenkins is no exception. He has great speed and will make things happen with the ball in his hands. Juice Williams will need another receiving option next season across from Arrelious Benn, and Jenkins could be the guy.

Wes Kemp            St. Louis, MO    WR    6’4” 226    Missouri

Originally headed to Wisconsin, Kemp recently switched to the Tigers. He might be moved to tight end, and in Gary Pinkel’s system, he is a perfect fit. His size and athleticism make him an ideal piece to the Pinkel offensive puzzle. He will be a faster, slightly smaller version of Martin Rucker.

D’anton Lynn        Celina, TX        S    6’1” 180    Penn State

Penn State dipped into Texas to pull an underrated defensive back prospect. Lynn will be very good against the run. His aggressive, attacking style of play allows him to play down in the box. His speed and athleticism give him the ability to play sideline-to-sideline.

Kyle Parker            Jacksonville, FL    QB    6’ 192”    Clemson

This Todd Reesing look-alike played very well at the Under Armour All-American Game. He has such a natural feel for the game, that it might be hard to keep him off the field. He goes through his progressions very quickly and accurately. Watch out Willy Korn!

Curt Phillips            Kingsport, TN    QB    6’3” 218    Wisconsin

This kid is the complete package of physical ability at the quarterback position. He has nice height and a well-built, muscular frame. His arm strength is more than adequate. It is his athleticism that makes him so intriguing. He has the ability to be a run option from out of the backfield. Phillips gained 9,206 total yards and was responsible for 115 touchdowns over three seasons.

James Vandenberg        Keokuk, IA        QB    6’2” 185    Iowa

Vandenberg leaves Keokuk High with almost sole possession of the Iowa state passing record book. He also led his team to the 3A state championship. On film, he shows nice footwork and nice fundamentals. He is productive, he is a winner and he has nice technique. That is all I need to know.

Rod Wilks            Smyrna, TN        WR    6’2” 205    Tennessee

Wilks has been compared to Larry Fitzgerald of the Arizona Cardinals. He is not quite that physically gifted but he certainly plays a similar brand of football. In fact, Wilks might even be a touch faster than Mr. Fitzgerald. He likes the contact and will make the tough catch. Wilks will be a playmaker in Knoxville.

_______________________________________________________________________

Here are some guys who are not so much sleepers as they are underrated. These five names are all outside of the top-125 in the Athlon Consensus 100, but all should be in the top-100.

Nick Cody            Brush Prairie, WA    OL    6’5” 290    Oregon

This young offensive tackle may be the most underrated prospect in the nation. Cody has a great story and a great head on his shoulders. He is a well-grounded, hard-working mauler along the offensive line. He looks to bury defenders on every play and with his size could be an all-Pac-10 type player. I had a chance to interview him during his live commitment.

Listen Here

Jarmon Fortson        Columbus, GA    WR    6’3” 218    Florida State

Fortson put on a show in the Georgia Dome during the 3A state semi-finals. He led his team to 20 unanswered points in the final six minutes of play to pull off the miraculous comeback 26-24. He made spectacular catch after spectacular catch. The big, physical receiver will be a threat in all levels of the passing game.

Max Tuioti-Mariner        Corona, CA        OL    6’4” 300    Colorado

This kid is a beast. He, like Cody, looks to bury defenders on every play. It is this killer instinct that transforms physically limited solid players into all-conference type bruisers. Stick him next to true freshman starter Ryan Miller and the left side of the Colorado offensive line is set for years to come.

Darron Thomas        Aldine, TX        ATH    6’4” 205    Oregon

The Ducks are getting a dynamic playmaker in Mr. Thomas. He has lightning-quick footwork and his acceleration is second to none. I would like to see him get a shot at quarterback as the Chip Kelly system would fit his skills perfectly. He does lack the arm strength coaches like, but he has good touch and accuracy.

MarQueis Gray        Indianapolis, IN    QB    6’4” 220    Minnesota

Arguably the second-best dual-threat quarterback behind Terrelle Pryor, Gray is a dynamic playmaker. This kid has the speed to get downfield in a hurry. He will be a great fit in the spread offense that Tim Brewster is trying to install. He has great acceleration, size and arm strength. Gray is a much more polished passer than a guy like Darron Thomas.

Alabama Crimson Tide: 2008 Recruiting Champions

2008-02-06T18:49:00.000-06:00

The phrase “Roll Tide” has never been more appropriate than today. After a very late flurry on the part of Nick Saban and his staff -- including landing six prospects in the last week -- congratulations are due to the Alabama Crimson Tide and their 2008 Athlon Sports Recruiting National Championship.

This whole process started back in February of 2007 when Reform, AL defensive end Michael Williams became the first to join the Crimson Tide’s 2008 class. Nearly one full year later, the reform was complete at 3 pm ET today when Gadsden, AL linebacker Jerrell Harris announced his intentions to play for Alabama.

In between, 30 prospects decided that Tuscaloosa would be where they would play their college ball. This class is easily the most balanced class in the nation but it really begins and ends with one young wide receiver from Foley, Alabama: Julio Jones. Jones, No. 2 in the AC100, is a mythical blend of size, speed, toughness and natural instincts. He has a chance to be an immediate impact threat on the outside.

Jones is not the only playmaker in this class, though. Burton Scott, Mark Barron, Mark Ingram and Chris Jordan all have the ability to make things happen with the ball in their hands. All four are listed as athletes and could make instant impacts at a number of positions.

More importantly for Tide fans, however, was the excellent job Nick Saban did addressing the obvious lack of talent in the defensive front seven. Potentially five linebackers (including the incredibly talented Harris), four defensive tackles and five defensive ends clearly add needed depth to the defensive front for Kevin Steele and Co.

Saban and Steele did not stop there. They also landed four, possibly five, defensive backs. With names like Alonzo Lawrence – who actually shut down Julio Jones in the Ala-Miss All-Star Classic – and Robby Green, the Tide did a masterful job of reaching into surrounding states and pulling talent. Green is from Louisiana and Lawrence hails from Mississippi.

Last but certainly not least is the new star quarterback, literally. Lake Worth, Florida product Star Jackson signed his letter of intent today to play for Alabama. Jackson is a 6-3, 190 pound scrambling dynamo that could find himself pushing John Parker Wilson for the starting job.

Signing Day Winners:

Clemson Tigers

The Tigers had a great day today, closing very strong with some expected names and a few surprises. Jacksonville running back Jamie Harper is an outstanding prospect and will likely continue the recent trend of very talented ball carriers for Clemson. They also added a big offensive lineman from Alabama in Antoine McClain. Tommy Bowden was not satisfied, however, as he dipped in the Georgia Bulldogs’ class and stole tight end Dwayne Allen from Mark Richt and Co.

Arkansas Razorbacks

Bobby Petrino is known for his offensive prowess and he made strong moves on signing day to ensure that there will be firepower in Fayetteville. Already with top in-state runner DeAnthony Curtis in the fold, Petrino stole two other talented prospects that could help rebuild his offense. Jerico Nelson, formerly a Purdue commit, and Joe Adams, formerly a USC Trojan pledge, both switched today and are headed to Arkansas.

North Carolina Tar Heels

Last season Butch davis did a masterful job of putting together a crazy talented recruiting class. Until today, the 2008 version could have been considered a complete bust. Snagging four very talented kids – Christian Wilson, Robert Quinn, Herman Davidson and Quinton Coples -- really boosted an average class today.

Miami Hurricanes

The flag planting that was south Florida recruiting this season for the Hurricanes came to fruition today. Lineman Ben Jones and wide receiver Tommy Streeter completed the sweep of Miami-Northwestern High, giving Randy Shannon seven signees from one local high school. They were not done, however. The U also landed arguably the most ready-to-play corner in the nation, Brandon Harris, and then stuck it to Urban Meyer and the Gators when they stole back Ramon “Cookie” Buchanan. Cookie had been committed to Miami, then switched to Florida before finally signing with the Hurricanes.

Losers:

Anyone involved in the Terrelle Pryor sweepstakes not named Oregon

The most important letter of intent still remains unsigned. Jeannette, PA quarterback Terrelle Pryor held his noon press conference today just as he planned, but it left everyone wanting more. He announced today that he was not ready to announce. A supposed trip out west to Eugene and the Oregon Duck campus is in the works for this weekend. This is not good news for Ohio St, Michigan and Penn State who all felt they had a chance at the record-breaking athlete. Ohio State is still the team to beat but the Pryor saga will continue for a few more days… at least.

Purdue Boilermakers

It has been a rough couple of weeks for Joe Tiller’s program. Arguably the top two prospects in their class jumped ship today. Wide receiver Roy Roundtree and athlete Jerico Nelson both made 13th hour switches and headed elsewhere. The hits just keep on coming for a coach who was basically told that he is finished after this season.

The Big East

With the obvious exception of Pittsburgh, every team in the Big East underachieved in recruiting this season. Cincinnati could not capitalize on success during the season, nor could UConn The big three -- WVU, Rutgers, and Louisville – didn’t come close. WVU lost nearly every top prospect (although they did get good news with Josh Jenkins’s commitment today) once Rich Rodriguez left for Michigan. Rutgers lost most of the top in-state talent to bigger, more prestigious programs. Louisville’s class is loaded with JUCO talent, which can be a very dangerous proposition.

Auburn Tigers

This one is more of a compilation of issues. Five-star running back Enrique Davis, who signed with Auburn last season, scorned the Tigers for divisional rival Ole Miss. Not only that but new offensive coordinator Tony Franklin lost out on one his would-be future weapons in Jarmon Fortson. He signed with Florida State today and will be a star in Tallahassee. Last but not least is the story written above: the Crimson Tide dominated inside the state this year, landing nearly every major prospect in Alabama.

Darrell Scott Goes Buffalo!!!

2008-02-06T11:55:00.000-06:00

In what might be the biggest land in Colorado history, the No. 1 running back in the nation Darrell Scott from Ventura, CA has decided to head to Boulder, CO.

Darrell Scott is the most complete running back prospect in the nation. He has not only the durability, size and power to run between the tackles 20-25 times a game but also has the speed and agility to get to the outside and beat defenders to the edge. He shows exceptional feet for a bigger back and has great balance and power for a guy who can play in the open field. He has great vision and patience while allowing his blocks to develop. Scott is also one of the better receivers out of the backfield in this class.

Scott rushed for 3,194 yards and 45 touchdowns his junior year.

Scott has lived in Florida, Texas and California, so he has played against top-flight competition his entire career. Colorado freshman wide receiver Josh Smith is Scott’s uncle but is more like his brother as they lived together in Ventura. This relationship will be a key factor in where Scott ends up.

This puts the Colorado class in rarefied air. The Hawk is really doing a great job.

Julio! Julio! Julio!

2008-02-06T11:23:00.000-06:00

Its over! Julio Jones, the top prospect in the south and the arguably the best player in the nation has finally ended his recruiting process.

And the winner is...Alabama!

Shocking.

Jones is the most physically gifted wide receiver in this year’s class of pass catchers. That is a monster statement as the 2008 wide receiver class might be the best and deepest group of wideouts ever.

He has a rare blend of size, speed, agility and natural instincts. He can do it all. As a deep threat, he has great leaping ability and ball-tracking skills. Over the middle he has the size and toughness to make the catch and take the big hit. At the line of scrimmage, his long arms and quick feet make him very difficult to jam. In the open field he has the elusiveness to make people miss and accelerate quickly for extra yards. In the running game, Jones can be a dominate blocker, using his big frame and long arms to shield defenders from the ball-carrier.

He is mentally tough as well. In a game against rival high school Daphne, Jones hurt his ankle in the first half and came out in the second half and played through the pain and caught a bomb to win the game. He is a leader on the field.

This is the most talented player on the outside that Alabama has probably ever signed - at least in 10 years. Julio Jones automatically makes Alabama dangerous on the edge and in the vertical passing game.

If Bama lands Jerrell Harris they will lock up the top class in the SEC and maybe the nation.

Clemson Dominates on Signing Day

2008-02-06T11:17:00.000-06:00

Clemson has made a wonderful push for the top classin the ACC - in fact if Miami hadnt made a similar push they might have just passed them for tops in the ACC. But with Jacksonville, FL running back Jamie Harper and Anniston, AL offesnive lineman Antoine McClain, this class is turning inot one of the best in the nation.

I love Jamie Harper. I think he is the No. 3 RB in the nation.

There might not be a running back in the nation with Harper’s skill set. He is too quick and elusive to be considered a power back, but that is his style of play. He is very physical, playing behind his pads with textbook precision. He will hit most holes with low, square pad level and deliver the blow as he falls forward. He will pick up the tough yards.

At almost 220 pounds, Harper shows the ability to maneuver in small spaces, run away from defenders and impact the passing game in a way no power back can. He is surprisingly light on his feet and shows remarkable quickness in the open field for a prospect of his size. Harper is the most polished pass catcher from the pure running back position.

Oregon’s Jonathan Stewart is a solid comparison. Harper’s one area of weakness is his top-end speed. Stewart returns kicks for the Ducks; Harper does not have burner speed like that. Otherwise, Harper is a four-down running back and will be used in 3rd-and-long, as well as along the goal line.
Harper is an outstanding prospect and has NFL stamped on his forehead.

McClain is a solid pick-up as well.

What is scary about how big McClain is that he will get bigger. His massive 300-plus pound frame actually affords him room to grow. His size and power are two of his main strengths. Once this young lineman gets his hands on defenders they normally go for a ride. His solid hand technique and quick feet allow him to swing and move well once engaged with defenders.

His motor is always running, as are his feet. He carries his weight well using those active feet to recover nicely from mistakes. Those mistakes come primarily with speedy edge pass-rushers. He has trouble opening his stance up and giving the outside to defensive ends.

One great thing about McClain’s weaknesses is that there is a concerted effort on his part to address mistakes. This means he is studying his game and working hard to improve.

Oh yeah, and the Tigers stole a really nice tight end prospect from Tight End-U in Georgia's Dwayne Allen. Just a great day for the Clemson Tigers.

SEC Rebounds!

2008-02-06T10:20:00.000-06:00

After and early morning period in which four of the better prospects switched and left the conference, the SEC has begun to make its move.

Ole Miss and Arkansas pulled upsets to start the SEC run. Houston Dale Nutt pulled off a major recruiting coup in landing 5-star Hargrave running back Enrique Davis. He signed with Auburn last season but did not qualify. Davis could start right away and is easily the best player in this Ole Miss class - Darius Barksdale aside.

Bobby Petrino also made big news around noon today. Longtime USC commit Joe Adams is a dynamic prospect. He switched and signed with the Razorbacks.

Adams is a special, do-it-all type athlete. He does not run — he glides. Even his lateral, open-field movements are very smooth. He runs the underneath routes as well as any other prospect in the nation. Once he’s got a step, he is gone. Adams’ top-end speed is blistering, and he will get to the edge consistently. He is comfortable carrying the ball out of the backfield and has the potential to be a really solid return specialist also.

Then again, Adams could be a cornerback. In the mold of a Champ Bailey or Charles Woodson, Adams could find himself on both sides of the ball. He has the room to get bigger and stronger. There is no doubting his raw athletic ability. With the physical tools that he has, Adams could find himself at a variety of positions on the next level. His natural instincts are strong and will carry him a long way into the early development process.

Kentucky also won a nice prize in homegrown wide receiver Aaron Boyd. He should step in and help right away and is likely the top prospect in this Wildcat class - at the minimum he is the best prospect in the state of Kentucky.

Vols fans had a nice start to the day with the signing of Thomasville, NC athlete E.J. Abrams-Ward. This tall, lanky prospect could play on either side of the ball.

Early Theme in Signing Day: SWITCHES

2008-02-06T09:46:00.000-06:00

Florida has already lost two prospects in LB/S Ramon Buchanan and C Ricky Barnum.

Now Auburn has lost one of its top playmakers: wide receiver Jarmon Fortson from Columbus, GA has signed with FSU. Fortson is a great looking pass catcher. He is built like a tank and had a stellar performance in the Georgia Dome in the state semis this season. Auburn will miss Mr. Fortson.

It does not end there, however. Georgia lost one its top players in tight end Dwayne Allen. Allen signed with the Clemson Tigers.

That is four top SEC targets that have left the league.

Purdue also lost one of its top targets too. Troutwood, OH wide receiver Ray Roundtree signed today with the Michigan Wolverines. Rich Rod and Co. are making a very strong push on Signing Day.

Ramon Buchanan: DOUBLE SWITCH

2008-02-06T08:42:00.000-06:00

Urban Meyer and company once again take an early hit on Signing Day. After stealing Melbourne, FL linebacker/safety Ramon Buchanan away from the Hurricanes, a second dose of their own medicine early on Signing Day has the linebacker/safety prospect bailing on the Gators and signing with Miami.

Listed at both linebacker and safety, what position he ends up at depends more upon team need than his ability. Florida has young linebackers who all return, so safety might be a better fit. In addition, Buchanan would need to add at least 30 pounds if he expects to play linebacker.

There is no doubting his physical play and explosiveness, though. He will get handled by bigger offensive linemen but will never back down from any match-up. His attitude and demeanor are that of a linebacker. In the secondary, this should transform him into a hard-hitting enforcer of a safety. His burst and explosion are essential and will give him plenty of range, but he will need plenty of work on his deep coverage ability. Buchanan is already comfortable around the line of scrimmage, so run support will be an immediate asset.

Who’s Got It Right: PrepStar

Ricky Barnum: The Ole Switcharoo!!

2008-02-06T08:24:00.000-06:00

The Florida Gators got a bit of their own medicine this morning. One of the top centers in the nation has switched his commitment from the SEC power to the newly energized Michigan Wolverines.

Ricky Barnum is a 6-2, 250lb center from Lakeland, FL (Lake Gibson High). Interestingly enough, the city of Lakeland sent 7 prospects to Florida last year. No such luck this season.

A couple more names fall for Michigan and they could end up in the top-5 nationally.

They need Terrelle Pryor and Nick Perry though.

Josh Jenkins Stays Home!!!

2008-02-06T07:43:00.000-06:00

Its about time West Virginia got some good news. Highly rated offesnive lineman from Vienna, WV Josh Jenkins has signed his letter of intent to play ball for the Mountaineers.

This thick o-line prospect plays tackle for his high school team but is likely to be offensive guard in college. He lacks the height and quickness to play tackle on the next level. He does have a nice, bulky frame with the ability to add some size. With some added power from a college weight program, Jenkins could develop into a very strong run blocker. He already shows great push up the middle on inside run plays.

He is comfortable in pull-blocking schemes, which again indicates a move to guard. He has a strong burst and great initial contact. It would be nice to see him maintain consistency throughout the entire play; after the burst he can at times lose focus.

All in all, he is a solid overall player. He shows a nice grasp of the overall skills needed to play on the offensive line. If he develops a killer instinct, he could turn into an all-conference type player.

Jenkins is the gem of this WVU class.

Deion Walker Says Yes to Fighting Irish

2008-02-06T07:37:00.000-06:00

This morning Christchurch, VA wide receiver Deion Walker is the first big name on Signing Day to announce his school.

Big Pick up for the Irish - although he is not nearly as good as Mike Floyd.

The very familiar terms ‘tall, rangy wide receiver’ once again applies to this prospect. Walker did play some safety in high school and shows great ability in playing the high point position and patrolling the deep secondary. These strong ball skills also make him a playmaker in the vertical passing game.

He has good speed and has some ability to make people miss in the open field. He is not, however, a ‘quick-twitch’ kind of player. His speed will be more than adequate when combined with his ability to make the big play.

Walker is going to need to add some thickness as Division I athletes will throw him around without added weight. That raises another issue: level of competition. The players he was going up against were nowhere near his equal in athleticism.

Signing Day Watch List:

2008-02-05T12:02:00.000-06:00

There will be fans of every school in America wasting many man (or woman) hours at the office Wednesday.

That is because tomorrow is college football’s National Signing Day. It is the first opportunity for head coaches to officially claim players as their own. It is also the first time head coaches can publicly comment on recruits.

Needless to say, it is an exciting time for everyone involved. Fans, coaches, players and recruiting junkies everywhere will be glued to a medium of choice waiting for those faxed letters of intent to come in.

This season, more so than in recent years, the names left yet to commit are extraordinarily talented. The top quarterback, running back and wide receiver have yet to pick a school. The 2008 recruiting national championship, very much so, still hangs in the balance.

The big three are obvious:

Terrelle Pryor - QB - Jeannette, PA
Finalists: OSU, Michigan, Oregon, Florida, LSU, PSU
Prediction: if it happens tomorrow...OHIO STATE

Julio Jones - WR - Foley, AL
Finalists: Alabama, FSU, Florida, Oklahoma, Texas Tech
Prediction: ALABAMA

Darrell Scott - RB - Ventura, CA
Finalists: Colorado, Texas
Prediction: COLORADO

Pryor is set to announce on ESPNU at 12:05 pm ET. Pryor has hinted at taking a visit to Oregon this upcoming weekend, which would push back his announcement past Signing Day. Jones is set to announce at 12:30 pm ET on ESPNU. Scott is set to announce at 12:50 pm ET on ESPNU.

Here is a list of some of the other big names announcing Wednesday, my prediction is in bold:

E.J. Abrams-Ward - ATH - Thomasville, NC
Finalists: Tennessee, North Carolina

Aaron Boyd - WR - Lexington, KY (10:30 am)
Finalists: Kentucky, Oregon

T.J. Bryant - CB - Tallahassee, FL
Finalists: USC, FSU, Miami, Florida, Alabama, LSU

Quinton Coples - DE - Chatham, VA (10:45 am)
Finalists: North Carolina, Tenn, NC St, FSU

Enrique Davis - RB - Chatham, VA
Finalists: Maryland, Oregon, Auburn, Ole Miss, Tenn

Roderick Davis - DT - Aldine, TX
Finalists: Texas A&M, Texas, Florida

J.B. Fitzgerald - LB - Princeton Junction, NJ
Finalists: Michigan, Rutgers

Jarmon Fortson - ATH - Columbus, GA (12:45 pm)
Finalists: Florida St, Auburn

Jamie Harper - RB - Jacksonville, FL (12:20 pm)
Finalists: Clemson, FSU, Florida, Miami

Brandon Harris - CB - Miami, FL
Finalists: Florida, Miami, Ohio State

Jerrell Harris - LB - Gadsden, AL (3 pm)
Finalists: Alabama, Auburn, Clemson, Tenn, USC

Josh Jenkins - G - Vienna, WV (9 am)
Finalists: Ohio St, WVU, Florida State

Ben Jones - OL - Miami, FL
Finalists: Clemson, Miami

Datone Jones - DE - Compton, CA
Finalists: Oregon, UCLA

T.J. Lawrence - WR - Lakeland, FL
Finalists: S. Car, Va. Tech, Florida, Michigan

Antoine McClain - OL - Anniston, AL
Finalists: Tenn, LSU, Clemson

Charles Mitchell - S - Clarksdale, MS
Finalists: Southern Miss, Nebraska, Miss St

Nick Perry - DE - Detroit, MI (3 pm)
Finalists: Michigan, USC, Mich St, Miami

Robert Quinn - DE - North Charleston, SC (10:30 am)
Finalists: Auburn, Alabama, North Carolina

Hamani Stevens - C - Hemet, CA (3 pm)
Finalists: UCLA, BYU, Oregon

Tommy Streeter - WR - Miami, FL
Finalists: Miami, Oregon, S. Car, USF

Note: Time = Player's expected announcement. All times Eastern.

Tide Pushes for Top Class

2008-02-04T14:00:00.000-06:00

Alabama is making a strong case for the No. 1 class in the nation. With some help they could easily get there. That obviously depends on names like Foley's Julio Jones - who would shock me if he did not pick Alabama - and Gadsden's Jerrell Harris.

Nick Saban and company have set themselves up for that top slot over the last week. Lucedale, Miss., cornerback Alonzo Lawrence ended his recruitment and committed to Alabama over the weekend. He was followed closely by a commitment from defensive end prospect Glenn Harbin.

Lawrence saw his stock soar near the end of the recruiting season - he ranked just outside the Athlon Consensus 100. He played in the Alabama-Mississippi All-Star game and was a major part of the Magnolia state ending Alabama's winning streak. He was forced to guard none other than the best wideout in the nation, Jones, and played very well. So well, in fact, that Jones had little-to-no impact on the outcome of the game.

His meteoric rise up the rankings is well warranted. Lawrence has great size and athleticism for a player with his ability to play on the outside. He has great quickness and his closing speed is remarkable. He should have the ability to turn and run with faster wideouts on vertical routes.

He is not just a lock down cover corner either. He shows a nice physical edge when playing near the line of scrimmage. He possesses solid instincts and will come up and fill hard against the run. This makes him an ideal fit in a cover-2 scheme.

To me, cornerback is the least coached position on the field. Generally, coaches point at the other team's best player and say "Stick 'em." So rarely does one see finely tuned technique and fundamentals from a high school corner. Lawrence is no exception. There are some areas that solid defensive back coaching - a la Nick Saban - will be able to correct. His pedal and zone coverages could use some polish.

Make no mistake, his physical tools and the job he did against Julio Jones are simply amazing. Saban will turn him into a star in the SEC.

Harbin, a big defensive end from Mobile, is no slouch of a consolation prize. The 6-5, 250 pounder has a massive frame and room to grow. He is not overly explosive and agile off the ball so a move to tackle is possible. If he adds 25-30 pounds he could be a dynamic 'zero' technique tackle. He will also need work on his pass rush repertoire. But you cannot coach Harbin's size and strength. It will be interesting to see if he makes it at defensive end.

The thing I love about this class and Harbin, is that Saban has done an excellent job addressing the Crimson Tide's needs along the defensive line. Wallace Gilberry aside, the level of talent in the front seven - post-DeMeco Ryans - has been lacking. Add Jerrell Harris and Bama has dramatically upgraded its defensive front.

Photos by Athlon Sports

Athlon Sports National Recruiting Blitz

2008-02-04T12:47:00.000-06:00

Here is a Signing Day preview edition of AS National Recruiting Blitz.

Mitch and I sit down and get you ready for Signing Day...

Here are some of the highlights:

The AC100: Honorable Mention
Athlon's coverage of Signing Day 2008
Terrelle Pryor, Julio Jones and Darrell Scott updates
Alabama's late push for No. 1
SEC West recruiting
and more...

As always you can check out the Athlon Consensus 100.

Also check out the Athlon Sports Recruiting Message Board. Its free for all. Sign Up TODAY!

Michigan Dips Into Lone Star State Again

2008-02-04T10:24:00.000-06:00

Texarkana quarterback Ryan Mallett - even though he transfered - Cypress all-purpose dynamo Sam McGuffie, Sugar Land wide receiver Daryl Stonum and now Klein running back Terrance Robinson have all left the state of Texas and headed north to Ann Arbor. Robinson committed to the Wolverines shortly after the Super Bowl Sunday evening.

Sugar Land has been very kind to the Wolverines as I did not even mention the two Sugar Land commits from last season - LB Brandon Herron and DB Troy Woolfolk. That is six very talented young prospects over the past two classes that chose Michigan.

Mallett was the top QB in the nation last year, McGuffie is just outside this year's Athlon Consensus 100 and Stonum is No. 39. These are top-flight talents that Michigan has gone into Texas to land.

Robinson is a perfect fit for Rich Rod's spread-zone-read-option attack. In fact, he is a striking resemblance to WVU starting running back for 2009: Noel Devine. Robinson is small but he is not quite Devine small. He is fast but not quite Devine fast. But more importantly he is very comfortable and familiar with the spread-option. Klein ran an almost exact replica of WVU's rushing attack.

The 5-9, 175 pounder shows great speed and burst with some surprising power. He does not mind putting his head down to finish a run. He has great agility using solid quickness to weave in and out of defenders. He shows the mental capacity to run between the tackles, I just wonder about his durability and size in the Big Ten. He certainly makes up for his lack of size with great speed and toughness, though.

I would like to see him add some thickness and will need to work on his blitz pick-up and receiving skills (he could be a nice slot receiver too) but should be a dynamic little playmaker for the Wolverines. Hey, Mike Hart was too short and too small to be any good too, right?

If Michigan and Rich Rod can land Terrelle Pryor and Nick Perry this class will be a top-5 class nationally. Sneaky good class for the boys in Maize and Blue.

Photo by Athlon Sports

Southern Miss Pull Off Huge Upset

2008-02-02T09:15:00.001-06:00

Larry Fedora has not been the head coach in Hattiesburg for very long and the small Mississippi community has already felt his impact. Fedora was a part of some very explosive offenses at Oklahoma State, especially at the wide receiver spot. Adarius Bowman is likely to be a high draft pick, Rashuan or D'Juan or Donovan or one of those Woods was a first round pick (it was Rashaun). He was also the Woods that caught seven touchdown passes in one game against SMU in 2003. Tight end Brandon Pettigrew is also a pretty solid player.

Fedora has certainly set himself up to continue his success at that position. Ocean Springs, MS native DeAndre Brown announced Friday evening that he has shunned offers from nearly every southern power to go to Conference USA and the Southern Miss Golden Eagles.

Brown is ranked No. 15 in the Athlon Consensus 100. This makes him the No. 3 ranked wideout in the nation, sitting behind only Summerville's A.J. Green and Foley's Julio Jones.

The first thing you notice about Mr. Brown is his size. He is probably the tallest wide receiver in the 2008 class — unless you count Jonathan Baldwin as a wideout. His tall frame comes with a massively long wingspan that he uses very effectively to go up and snag passes. He will be a dynamic red zone threat as he will create mismatches all over the secondary.

Although his speed is adequate, it takes him a while to reach his full capacity. He also will need a lot of work on his route running. He has yet to learn how to manipulate defensive coverage schemes in order to get open and has a tendency to misread certain alignments. Adjustments at the line of scrimmage, recognition and route-running technique are all things that can be learned and developed with sound coaching. His physical gifts cannot be taught.

There may be no bigger single impact recruit in the nation. Brown brings SEC talent to a middle tier conference. Jeff Bower had done a really nice job of keeping Southern Miss competitive for over a decade. If Fedora is able to recruit like this every year, USM fans can expect to compete for C-USA titles if not push for that elusive, but recently attainable "non-BCS" BCS bid.

You add Brown to the two stars already at the skill positions on that offense (Damien Fletcher and Shawn Nelson), and Fedora has the makings of a very potent offense.

Now, if they can just find a quarterback to throw the ball to them.

Photos by Athlon Sports

Terps Finally Keep One Home

2008-02-01T11:36:00.000-06:00

Ralph Friedgen's offenses at Maryland have been anything but simple. The playbook is reportedly huge and very complex. After some 10-win seasons and big bowl wins over teams like Tennessee, it seems that the offense has been just that, off.

This may be attributed to the fact that teams like Illinois, Ohio State and Penn State have pillaged and plundered the state's top talent. I think Larry Johnson Sr. is actually paying property tax in the state of Maryland after what he accomplished in 2006 class - seven of the state's top 10 headed to state college.

Again this year, Ron Zook and Jim Tressell have gone into the DC/Maryland area and taken top talent. Thursday night, The Friedge struck back and kept a really good player home.

Hyattsville, MD wide receiver Kenny Tate has decided to stay home and committed to Maryland. Tate plays at the legendary DeMatha High School.

At 6-4, 210 pounds Tate is certainly an imposing figure on the outside. He is big and physical and not afraid of contact. He will make the tough catch in traffic. He also does a really nice job of catching the ball with his hands away from the body. He is a dynamic player. He simply finds ways to get into the end zone. In the 2006 campaign, Tate scored 11 touchdowns. Six receiving, one rushing and four more in the return game. He is not overly explosive but may factor into the return game for Maryland.

Experts say that he is best player from the state of Maryland to stay home since Vernon Davis. If Maryland fans expect to compete for ACC titles, they must do a better job of keeping Maryland talent home. Maybe Kenny Tate is the start of in-state dominance for the Terps.

The pass catching portion of this Terps class is easily the strength. Solid wide receivers like Tate and Kerry Boykins as well as big tight end Devonta Campbell will really provide some offensive weapons for that Friedgen offense. Now, if they can just keep a quarterback upright long enough to deliver the ball.

Photos by Athlon Sports

Ohio State Pulls Torrence's Offer

2008-01-30T14:43:00.000-06:00

Do everything athlete from Massillon, OH Devoe Torrence has been committed to the Ohio State Buckeyes for quite a while now. Apparently, Jim Tressell and Co. have decided to pull his scholarship offer. There has been some growing concern about Torrence's off-the-field issues. Namely his grades.

Most schools would kill for a chance at a kid like Torrence but the Buckeyes have a top-10 recruiting class and, I guess, have the luxury of being able to basically cut him.

Torrence is ranked No. 57 in the Athlon Consensuc 100.

Torrence played running back, wide receiver and linebacker in high school, so needless to say he is a versatile prospect. He is even being recruited as a tight end by some schools. He is most ready to play the running back position, though. He is a bigger back who runs with great physicality that makes him difficult to tackle in one-on-one situations. He runs downhill and rarely loses yards. His power, strength and size will keep him durable on the next level. The most noticeable weakness on film is his ball-carrying technique. He will have to learn to tuck the ball better is he expects to play running back in the Big Ten.

At linebacker, he shows excellent physical tools and solid tackling ability. His reaction time is slow and his diagnostic skills seem to be lacking. When he does find the right lane, though, he attacks it well and generally gets the job done. In the open field, he can play too upright at times. Coverage skills will be a huge question mark.

He is just another athlete in Columbus but will be a major player for any of the smaller programs chasing his talents. Torrence's finalists prior to committing to OSU were:

Akron, Pittsburgh, Purdue, Michigan, Michigan State and Cincinnati

If I am Brian Kelly and the Bearcats I go after Torrence with full force and I make sure he gets into school. He could really give a boost to a mediocre Cincy class.

Photo by Athlon Sports

Athlon Sports National Recruiting Blitz

2008-01-30T10:39:00.000-06:00

This week's edition of the Athlon Sports National Recruiting Blitz is listed up on the site on the Athlon Sports Podcasts page.

Or you can click here to listen:

AS National Recruiting Blitz

Mitch and I break down the top-20 prospects in the Athlon Consensus 100.

The Gators are the hottest team in the nation and are pushing for the No. 1 spot.
David Cutcliffe and Duke got their QB of the future.
Can Texas Tech salvages their class.
Clemson is closing strong.
Houston Nutt and Ole Miss is looking in familiar places for talent.
USC is still waiting on some really talented kids.

We also break down all the coverage Athlon will be providing during Signing Day Week 2008. Included is a LIVE CHAT AT ATHLONSPORTS.com from 1-2 pm ET on Signing Day.

All this and more on the Athlon Sports National Recruiting Blitz.

Don't forget about Athlon's free recruiting forum. Sign up is free and I am there everyday talking recruiting.

Athlon Sports Recruiting Message Board

Florida Gators Make Push for No. 1

2008-01-30T09:26:00.000-06:00

The last month has been quite a successful month for Urban Meyer and the Florida Gators. Despite rumors of some scandalous activity, Meyer contniues to rack up big names on the recruiting trail.

Some issues surrounding No. 1 ranked JUCO wide reciever Carl Moore and his girlfriend as well as Patrick Johnson's ACT test scores have not made Meyer any friends of late. Stealing Omar Hunter from Notre Dame and Ramon Buchanan and Matt Patchan (yes, technically Patchan was never committed to the U) from Miami certainly did not add to his loveable nature.

Let's keep in mind, Urban Meyer does not get paid to put smiles on people's faces. He gets paid to win football games. Monday, he added another really nice prospect to his roster. Hoover, AL defensive end William Green announced his intentions to sign with Florida next Wednesday.

Green is a really nice pick-up for the surging Florida Gators.

The 6-4, 220-pound Spain Park High product is another one of the hybrid defensive end/linebacker prospects. Some scouts see him as a linebacker, but Green is likely to be playing along the line in college. Although Green will have to add significant weight to play a pure defensive end position, he does show flashes of physicality. One thing is for sure: Green will not give up on the play. He has a wonderful motor chasing and pursuing the ball-carrier until the whistle every time.

Although the size is not there, the power and strength seem to be present. His hand technique and his pursuit angles will all develop with solid coaching. He has not learned how to shoot his hands and shed bigger blockers just yet. However, with his long arms and big frame, Green could end up a dominating end in college.

Defensive end is a position that Meyer needed to address, especially once they pulled Savannah (Ga.) Jenkins defensive end Chaz Sutton offer over fear of his grades not be adequate enough.

On a side note, Florida has gone into a lot of backyards and pulled some very talented players:

Dee Finley - S - Auburn, AL (AC100 No. 51) self-explanatory
Omar Hunter - DT - Buford, GA (AC100 No. 49) a short drive form Athens
William Green - DE - Hoover, AL (AC100 No. 63) a Birmingham suburb
Sam Robey - OL - Louisville, KY self-explanatory

Sherman reels in Cyrus Gray

2008-01-28T20:48:00.000-06:00

Mike Sherman certainly has a great resume in is hand when he walks into living rooms. He averaged more than 10 wins a year in the NFL. He coached arguably the greatest quarterback in history in Brett Favre. And he is a Texas A&M guy, having coached there during the famous "Wrecking Crew" days.

It worked in the case of Jeff Fuller, whose father played in the NFL and is familiar with Sherman's offense. Fuller switched from Big Xii South rival Oklahoma to A&M as soon as Fuller heard about the West Coast offense that the Aggies would be running.

Sherman has done a great job of keeping a pretty solid class together. For a while this class, which was built very early in the recruiting season, was hanging in the balance.

College Station got some more good news recently. DeSoto running back Cyrus Gray has made his pick and committed to the Texas A&M Aggies.

Gray is ranked No. 54 in the Athlon Consensus 100.

This Gray is quite the opposite of his counterpart Jonas Gray (Detroit, MI - Notre Dame). Cyrus is about 30 pounds lighter than Jonas and is more of a speed back rather than a power runner. He lined up predominately as a quarterback, taking the shotgun snap and running with the ball. His natural open-field running ability is outstanding. He shows great vision and cut-back ability, exploding into creases and slashing through defensive front sevens. He can be a home run threat from the running back position.

For a speed back, Gray is very comfortable between the tackles. He uses his explosion and vision to find holes and squeak through with great quickness. Because he is smaller in stature, though, his penchant to run with a mean streak will catch up to him in college. Gray is a hard worker in the weight room, so he should be able to strengthen his lower body. An aspect he will have to improve, if he expects to run with the same intensity that made him so successful in high school.

Gray will play behind Mike Goodsen and big J-Train Lane next season but should be ready to tote the rock shortly there after.

Mike Sherman is certainly going to have a nice roster to work with over the next few seasons. Of course, so did Coach Fran.

Tennessee Tries to Salvage Class

2008-01-28T09:00:00.000-06:00

The recruiting cycle for the Tennessee Volunteers goes as such: No. 3 nationally one year, No. 40 nationally the next (which is where they are currently ranked this season), followed immediately by a top-5 class again. It is a roller coaster of emotions for Vol fans.

Many experts consider this season a bit of a disappointment for the Vols on the recruiting trail. Phil Fulmer is trying to change that late in the campaign.

To be fair, the two biggest 'newcomers' this next season are already attending class in Knoxville, just not at UT. Former Alcoa DE/TE and Florida St Seminole (and five star recruit) Brandon Warren and prodigal defensive back Demetrice Morley - who was previously booted off the team - are both working to get back into school at Pellessippi Community College. Both are slated to be on the roster in this fall. Both will be impact players.

However, Fulmer could make a move up recruiting rankings with a few late commitments. It would be nice for Vol fans to land big O-lineman Antoine McClain. The Vols did pick up two commitments recently: OLB Marlon Walls and DE Montori Hughes.

Hughes may not even make it into classes. Walls is the real catch.

The longtime Tennessee fan is a really solid player at the linebacker position. First, he has great size that cannot be taught. He is tall, rangy and thick, with room to get even bigger. In fact, if he gets too big he will likely be moved down to defensive end. At that spot, Walls would be a terror off the edge in pass rush situations.

As a linebacker, he shows nice physicality and burst. He explodes into ball carriers - at times he needs to be more under control when attacking - but generally gets the job done.

There are two major areas that are important to Walls development as a linebacker. First, he has really nice athleticism for his size. He can drop into the flats or deep middle if needed and play solid pass coverage. He also has solid range when pursuing outside plays. Second, his diagnostic skills will need improvement if he expects to play linebacker. He needs to be reacting more on instinct.

Walls moved to Mississippi prior to his senior year and had been committed to Ole Miss. The Vols got a prospect with tremendous upside and versatility...if they can hold on him.

Photo by Athlon Sports

Clemson Makes Stong Push

2008-01-26T12:53:00.000-06:00

Clemson is very close to competing for the top class in the ACC. It will probably need some help down the stretch if Tommy Bowden expects to take that ACC recruiting crown. He made up a lot of ground this past week though.

AC Flora O-lineman Kenneth Page and Thomasville, GA defensive tackle Brandon Thompson have both ended their recruitment processes and committed to Clemson.

These are two very strong pick-ups for the Tigers. Thompson is probably the better prospect; he is ranked No. 86 in the first annual Athlon Consensus 100.

Thompson may have the body of a defensive tackle, but he certainly does not move like one. He has the quickness and athleticism of a defensive end. An unbelievably quick player off the snap of the ball, Thompson uses a nasty swim move to consistently get into the backfield. His athleticism affords him other options as well. He has already learned to get his hands up into passing lanes if he gets blocked. His leaping ability, for a man close to 300 pounds, is stunning. He will knock down a lot passes.

When Thompson stays focused on keeping his pads low off the snap, he is a monster. He just tends to lose that focus too often. There is a noted difference on film of when he is paying attention to it and when he is just “out-athlete-ing” everyone. As quick and explosive as he is up the field, he can show limited lateral movement at times. He will need to work on his hips. All and all, Thompson is a great prospect.

Page is a relatively smooth athlete for a kid his size. He plays with solid pad level and will get a strong push off the ball. He moves well in space and this likely will lead to him playing guard. His pass protection is not top tier tackle-esque and will need work. Again, this means guard is where Page ends up.

Both of these kids are really nice prospects and both really bolster an already solid class for Clemson - some of whom are already on campus. Little Kyle Parker had a great Under Armor Bowl and really improved his national stock. Wideout Marquan Jones is a burner and we all love the best defensive prospect in the nation DaQuan Bowers.

To me, this class hinges on greatness if Bowden can land Jacksonville running back Jamie Harper. He is an NFL talent, who I compare to Jonathan Stewart with a little less speed. He will make people forget about James Davis. Not that I don't like Davis, I just think Harper is that good.

Photos by Athlon Sports

Miami Recruits Get a Head Start

2008-01-25T13:42:00.000-06:00

It seems a pretty logical train of thought: the sooner you get to campus the better off you will be as a player, sooner. It also seems more and more of the big time recruits are adhering to this philosophy. Clemson's DaQuan Bowers, Florida St's Nigel Bradham and LSU's Patrick Johnson - well at least PJ tried - are just a few of the top prospects who will be on campus early this spring.

The ability to get acclimated with a new city, campus and class load without having to play football games is a major advantage. Learning a new system of play, starting a collegiate weight program and getting to know your teammates are invaluable for young prospects.

I did an article a few weeks ago tracking just a few of the major team's early enrollees: Early Enrollee Tracker

The Miami Hurricanes not only have a top-10 recruiting class but will have possibly seven of those players on campus this spring.

Miami Early Enrollees:

Marcus Fortson - DT - Miami, FL (Northwestern)
Aldarius Johnson - WR - Miami, FL (Northwestern)
Sean Spence - LB/S - Miami, FL (Northwestern)
Jacory Harris - QB - Miami, FL (Northwestern)
Arthur Brown - OLB - Wichita, KS (Wichita East)
John Calhoun - FB - Sebastian, FL (River)
Jake Wieclaw - K - New Lennox, IL (Lincoln-Way Central)

That might be the most impressive roster of early enrollees in the nation. Fortson, Brown, Johnson and Spence are all member of the prestigious Athlon Consensus 100.

Now if Randy Shannon can close with the other members of the Northwestern-7, they might challenge for the top class in the nation and will clinch the ACC recruiting crown. He would need to get a signature from wideout Tommy Streeter and o-lineman Ben Jones to land all seven prospects from the state championship football team from Miami.

PHOTOS: Aldarius Johnson (top), Sean Spence (right) Yes, they are two different people.

Athlon Sports Recruiting Blitz:

2008-01-24T10:58:00.000-06:00

This week's edition of the National Recruiting Blitz is up on the site.

Mitch and I break down twenty more prospects from the Athlon Consensus 100.

The overall success of the PAC-10 during this 2008 recruiting class, Florida's controversial recruiting tactics and updates on Terrelle Pryor, Darrell Scott and Julio Jones all highlight this week's edition of the National Recruiting Blitz.

National Recruiting Blitz: 01.23.08

Athlon Sports Podcasts

Every time Athlon releases 10 more names on the AC100, I look a little deeper into those ten names...

Deeper Look: No. 21-30 Notre Dame and the offensive tackle position are very well represented in this group...

Mountain Brook's Tyler Love is just one of the names I break down in this release.

Boilermakers Top Off Class

2008-01-22T09:28:00.000-06:00

The manner with which Purdue handled the "coaching search" - even though Joe Tiller is still the head coach - was questionable at best. However, they did secure the coach of the future in Eastern Kentucky's Danny Hope. Tiller is a few wins shy of becoming the all-time winningest coach in Purdue history and should get those wins next season. He then can - whether wants to or not - ride off in to the proverbial sunset.

This weekend, Tiller and Hope did a nice job of securing the linchpin of the 2008 recruiting class.

Destrehan, LA athlete Jerico Nelson turned down major offers from Tennessee, Arkansas, Florida and Auburn to head North to the Big Ten.

This versatile athlete could end up on either side of the ball - most likely corner back or running back. He shows great change of direction ability, making tacklers miss nearly every time he touches the ball. He can be a home run threat from any where on the field. He does not waste any steps. He is a bit small though, so will he be able to run between the tackles 25 times a game in the Big Ten? I don't know but in Purdue's offense, he may not have too.

His tremendous agility and flexibility is what gives him such high upside on defense. He gets in and out of his backpedal with great quickness. He is just too dangerous with the ball in his hands for him not to be playing offense.

In the spread Purdue offense, he is just too perfect a fit. He is a great receiver and will catch a lot of balls out of the backfield. Look for him to get plenty of 3rd down opportunities next year. He could also be an excellent return man.

Senior quarterback Curtis Painter will love having this safety valve at his disposal next season.

Sanders' Third Choice: FSU

2008-01-22T06:08:00.000-06:00

Clayton, OH offensive lineman Zebrie Sanders has had a tumultuous recruitment process. The 6-5, 275-pound Northmont product thought he was done with this whole circus on more than one occasion.

December 4th, Sanders was expected to commit to the Florida Gators but instead backed out of it. Was that because the Gators had pulled their scholarship offer? Sanders says that Urban Meyer, did in fact, pull the scholarship.

Then he was supposed to commit to Georgia at the Under Armor All-American Bowl. That didn't happen. Rumors again swirled about Sanders losing a scholarship offer. The young offensive tackle says that the UGA offer is still on the table. It is interesting that the college that his mother attended mysteriously got axed off his list, though.

Finally, this weekend when visiting Tallahassee, Sanders committed to the Seminoles.

Its a good thing too. The offensive line is one of the main causes of FSU's recent struggles. Without Sanders, this OL class would be very weak.

What is concerning about the names that the Seminoles have committed is who they beat out. Big Andrew Datko has offers from only FIU and UCF. He may be a really good player but those schools are not ones that FSU should be competing with.

Even though Sanders is a really nice prospect, the rumors about Florida and Georgia basically handing him down the recruiting ladder to FSU is troubling. It may be nothing, lets say, the media making too much of it. Then again, the O-line has been a major issue on this football team for some years now.

Florida State should be the team to beat, not a recruit's third choice.

Wolpack's Class rounding Out Nicely

2008-01-21T10:38:00.000-06:00

Tom O'Brien's move south to N.C. State was puzzling at first. Why leave a program that you built into a winner - Boston College has the longest current bowl winning streak. One word: recruiting.

Tommy-B has really done a great job on the recruiting trail this season, something that is just much more difficult to do at Boston College than at N.C. State.

The two gems of the class are offensive play-makers Brandon Barnes, a running back/wide receiver combo athlete from Bunn, NC, and quarterback Mike Glennon from Centreville, VA. Both are instant impact kind of guys. Glennon performed very well at the Under Armor Bowl in Orlando. He shows great poise and technique. I am very high on Mr. Glennon.

The Wolpack have cleaned up on the offensive line with names like Sam Jones and Anthony Wallace. But this weekend the OL class solidified itself as one of the best in the ACC when big R.J. Mattes decided to commit to N.C. State.

The Wolfpack beat out an impressive list of schools for Mr. Mattes: Miami, Va Tech, UNC, Clemson, South Carolina, Louisville, Wake and his father's alma mater Virginia. Ron Mattes played at UVa in the early 80's. You gotta love sons of former players.

What I love about this prospect is his fundamental development. It is ahead of the curve. He plays with nice knee bend, getting solid leverage for a kid with his height. He shoots his hands very well and gets good drive. He has a great motor and never stops working. He had a great week of practice at the Shrine Bowl, proving that he was the best OL prospect in attendance.

He will need to pack on some weight, his frame is still a bit on the slender side. But at 6-6, 270-pounds Mattes will fill out nicely and become a solid contributor from the tackle position.

Photo by Athlon Sports

The Price is Right for Penn State

2008-01-21T09:59:00.000-06:00

Penn State picked up a big time sleeper prospect from Virginia this weekend. Reston, VA (South Lakes HS) wide receiver A.J. Price has committed to PSU.

I know what you are thinking and no, its not the same A.J. Price that got busted stealing laptops!

Price picked Penn St over Rutgers, Michigan, Virginia, North Carolina and Duke. That is a nice list of suitors for a kid ranked as low as he is.

Price is an underrated prospect. He uses a tall, lanky frame to make big plays in the vertical passing game - as is evident by his 26 yards per catch. He has good hands and great leaping ability. He goes up and makes tough catches in traffic; he will make the spectacular one-handed catches at times as well. These skills and his 6-4 body will make him a good red zone target as well.

Not only does he show solid instincts when catching the ball, he also has a smooth athletic running style. He has the straight ahead speed to be a real game-breaker for the Nittany Lions. He does not have great moves in the open field but he does a great job of slashing through defenses using his straight line speed to beat defenders to the edge.

He lacks power and strength at only 175 pounds. He will struggle against bigger, more physical corners - especially in press coverage - until he bulks up a bit. But in a class with so many big, tall pass catchers, Penn State found a sleeper in Price.

Photo by Athlon Sports