Coach D's Blog

5 TOUGHEST ND GAMES

Sep. 11   Michigan at Notre Dame: It was hard not to put the first game in the Kelly era in this group, but Notre Dame should always beat Purdue at home.  This is the big game for me.  You have the high-powered Michigan offense against a ND defense that has talent, but was shredded by the run in 2009 under Jon Tenuta.  Can ND outscore the Wolverines and take advantage of a shaky Michigan defense?

Sep. 18   Notre Dame at Michigan State: The first road game for Kelly will be a tough one.  The Irish have not fared well against Sparty.  Lou Holtz dominated MSU, going 9-1 against the Spartans.  Since then ND has gone 4-9 against MSU, 3 of the last 5.  MSU is going to be hungry to rebound from a rough 2009 season.  Kelly will go back-to-back against both Michigan schools that passed him over for HC openings.  If ND can win this game it vaults them into a potentially outstanding season.

Oct.  9   Pittsburgh at Notre Dame: Pittsburgh has beaten Notre Dame 3 out of their last 4 meetings, including the last two seasons by only 8 combined points.  This game will likely be against a ranked Panther team, and the toughest home game of the season to this point.  Pittsburgh will have a powerful rushing attack and one of the best deep threats in the country.  Kelly and Cincinnati beat Pittsburgh 45-44 last fall to claim the Big East crown.  Pittsburgh will be out for payback, and doing it by beating Notre Dame sure would be great for Panther fans.  This is a huge game for Notre Dame.

Nov. 13   Utah at Notre Dame: This game might not excite Notre Dame fans who care more about the name on the jersey than the actual quality of the opponent.  Utah finished last fall 10-3 after spanking California 37-27 in the Poinsettia Bowl.  In 2008 they finished the season 13-0 after crushing Alabama 31-17 in the Sugar Bowl.  Jordan Wynn is an exciting young QB, and Utah returns two excellent backs (Eddie Wide, Matt Asiata).  This is going to be one of ND’s toughest games of the season against one of their most talented opponents.

Nov. 27   Notre Dame at USC: USC has beaten Notre Dame each of the last eight seasons, with only one game truly being a “winnable” game. In 2005 the Irish were on the cusp of beating the Trojans, but fell short as USC went on to the BCS Championship game.  Last fall ND lost by only 7 points and was within yards of tying the game.  But USC was up 34-14 in the second half, and the final score was not as close as the game played out.  In 2000, ND beat USC 38-20 in LA.  Since then the closest game in LA was a 24-44 beating in Brady Quinn’s final regular season game for the Irish.  USC will be talented and hungry.  This is going to be their bowl game.  If Notre Dame wants to be considered among the nation’s elites this is a game they have to start winning.

25 BEST GAMES OF THE SEASON:

This list is composed of games that either feature big matchups (top opponents, titles on the line) but also games that should be some of the more exciting games of the season.  Some of the games will be both, exciting games with a lot on the line between two of the nation’s best teams.

Sep.  4   North Carolina vs. LSU: We will know early on whether North Carolina is for real, and has put the off-season turmoil behind them.  This game, being played in Atlanta, features an SEC powerhouse against a team trying to emerge as a top-notch national program (and a team looking to emerge in the ACC).  This is a big game for Les Miles as well.  Losing early on to UNC will get the vultures swarming, but a win could give him an early breather.

Sep.  6   Boise State vs. Virginia Tech: This game, being played in Landover, features a traditional power (VT) against a team trying to be recognized as one.  Despite going 14-0 last fall the Broncos still are fighting for respect.  If they beat the Hokies in VT’s backyard to start the season, it will be hard for anyone to use their schedule against them.  VT needs this win to vault their own title hopes.  It will be interesting to see if Boise, who returns 21 starters, can go toe-to-toe with VT’s powerful rushing attack.  VT can match Boise’s speed, so if Boise wins they will have to out-tough and out-coach the Hokies.

Sep. 11   Florida State at Oklahoma: Oklahoma had a rough year in 2009, battling injuries and upsets, and they need this win to show the nation they are back among the elites.  If Oklahoma loses, or wins ugly, the doubts won’t be erased just yet.  If they win big, they will let the nation know last year was simply an anomaly.  Florida State is looking to regain respect, and get back into the discussion of who are the nation’s elite programs.  A win in Norman (or perhaps even a hard fought loss) would certainly go a long, long way to accomplishing this.  In order to win FSU needs a huge game from Christian Ponder, so a win would also vault him into the top group of Heisman hopefuls.

Sep. 11   Miami (FL) at Ohio State: Miami is another former power looking to show the nation they are back.  Going to Columbus and beating the Buckeyes would certainly make the nation take notice.  Ohio State has struggled with speed teams out of conference, and despite playing at home they have much to prove in this game as well.  OSU has had great defenses the last few seasons, but those defenses have struggled against speed teams.  If they can shut down Miami they will finally get their notice as one of the premier defensive units.  OSU has a soft out-of-conference schedule (as usual), so a win over Miami certainly gives them some BCS credit.  Miami wants to compete for NC’s again, and a win over Ohio State would get them in the discussion early.  It would also give them a huge boost as they play the first of three real tough road games (at Pittsburgh, at Clemson).

Sep. 18   Arkansas at Georgia: This game pits two of the more exciting offensive teams in the country against each other.  Arkansas is lead by offensive mastermind Bobby Petrino.  Ryan Mallett is the guy that gets the publicity, but it is the ultra talented WR corps (Greg Childs, Jarius Wright, Joe Adams) that is the engine that makes this offense go.  If Mallett can improve upon his consistency in big games (which was not good last fall) he could put up huge numbers.  Georgia is looking to bounce back after a rough 2009 campaign.  Aaron Murray takes over at QB, and the redshirt freshman has weapons that can match Mallett (A.J. Green, Tavares King, Marlon Brown, Orson Charles).  This game is going to come down to which offense can convert the most opportunities and which defense can limit the big play the best.  It should be an exciting game to watch.

Sep. 23   Miami (FL) at Pittsburgh: This game will go two ways for Miami.  Either Miami is coming off a huge win against the Buckeyes and are looking to keep the momentum, or they are looking to overcome a tough loss to the Buckeyes and hoping to rebound.  It’s the same for Pittsburgh: a win over Miami with their new QB gets the Panthers rolling and raring to make a run at a BCS game.  Pittsburgh struggled last fall with speed teams and talented QB’s, so Jacory Harris will be a tough matchup for them.  Miami struggled at times against power teams who could neutralize their speed (VT, UNC, Wisconsin).  Whichever team can overcome their 2009 matchup problems will emerge victorious.

Oct.  2   Florida at Alabama: This game pits the two best SEC teams from the last two seasons.  Florida won the 2006 and 2008 NC’s, Alabama won it last year.  Florida lost a ton of talent from a team that only lost to Alabama in 2009; but do not feel bad for the Gators.  They do not rebuild, the reload.  Gone is Tim Tebow, arrived is John Brantley.  Brantley brings a new passing dimension to the Gator offense that should be fun to watch.  Alabama returns the Heisman Trophy winner (Mark Ingram) and a stable of backs and WR’s that can make plays.  The Crimson Tide lost a bunch of talent on defense.  Florida is going to try to exploit the Bama secondary that lost three CB’s to the NFL and one to academic problems.  Alabama is going to try to once again run over a Florida defense that is young and undersized.

Oct.  2   Texas vs. Oklahoma: Once again it will be the Sooners and Longhorns to see who represents the Big 12 South in Dallas.  Oklahoma is the team that will likely get all the preseason hype, as they return Landry Jones and a talented group of offensive skill players to go along with a defense that brings back the majority of their top players.  OU had the 2009 season to prepare Sam Bradford’s replacement, Texas will be starting the 2010 season with a QB who played admirably in the NC game (Garrett Gilbert), but only has 66 career passing attempts.  Oklahoma will likely be the favorite in this game, and if they get past FSU, a win over Texas makes them a favorite to play for the BCS title.  Texas needs a win in this game to show they were more than just Colt McCoy last fall, and to show they are truly one of the nation’s premier programs.

Oct.  2   Stanford at Oregon: This game just might play a role in who wins the Pac 10 this season.  Even if it does not have that kind of impact, it should be one of the more exciting games of the season.  Since Harbaugh arrived in Palo Alto each of the games with Oregon has been exciting.  Last fall the Cardinal beat Oregon 51-42, as the two teams accounted for 1075 combined yards of offense.  In 2008 Oregon scored with :06 seconds left to beat Stanford 35-28.  In 2007 Oregon overcame a 31-24 halftime deficit to win 55-31.  Stanford returns one of the best groups of offensive players in the country.  Oregon has some QB issues, but there is talent at the position.  Oregon also returns a seriously talented stable of backs.  Neither team boosts a prime defense, which should make this game one of the most exciting games of the season.

Oct.  9   Florida State at Miami (FL): If FSU and Miami start off like I think they are this game is going to be huge.  There is a chance, however, that this game could mean which team avoids a disastrous season.  I’m predicting this game will be huge.  Both teams return highly productive quarterbacks and excellent speed.  Both teams also have some defensive issues to work through.  Last fall Miami scored 21 4^th quarter points to beat FSU in Tallahassee by a score of 38-34.  It was one of the season’s more exciting games.  This year’s game should be just as exciting, except it will likely have more at stake both on and off the football field.  Both teams are looking to put together big recruiting classes, and both are going after many of the same players.

Oct.  9   USC at Stanford: Stanford scored 27 4^th quarter points (including going for 2 despite being up 46-21) to blow out the mighty Trojans at home.  Harbaugh has won two of the last three games against USC, but both Cardinal wins came on the road.  USC is going to be looking for paybacks in this game, and both teams return great offensive talent.  One difference in this game is it could possibly have a significant impact as to who wins the Pac 10 title this fall.  USC is the more talented team, but the gap is narrowing, and Stanford might have the player who has the highest stock for the NFL Draft over the next couple of seasons (Andrew Luck).

Oct.  9   LSU at Florida: The Gators and Tigers have won four of the last seven National Championships.  LSU has gone 4-3 against the Gators since 2002, but Florida has gotten the best of LSU the past two seasons.  They beat the Tigers 13-3 last fall and blew them out 51-21 in 2008.  If the Tigers want to climb back to the top of the SEC and the nation they need to get back to beating the Gators.  Getting blown out again by the Gators is unacceptable.  Les Miles needs some big wins this fall to keep the sharks at bay, and a win in Gainesville would be huge for him and his program.  LSU has not beaten Florida in Gainesville since 2004 (24-21).

Oct. 16   Texas at Nebraska: This is a rematch of last year’s Big 12 title game, which Texas won 13-12 as Hunter Lawrence nailed a 46 yard field goal to send the Longhorns to the BCS title game.  Both teams have lost their stars (Colt McCoy, Ndamukong Suh), and both are looking to get back to the title game.  Both teams will be battled tested, as Texas will be coming off a four game stretch against bowl teams (Wyoming, Texas Tech, UCLA, Oklahoma) and Nebraska will have played Idaho, Washington, and a tough road game against Kansas State.  Nebraska will still be good on defense, so this is going to be a big test for UT’s young QB (Gilbert) and their young offensive skill.

Oct. 16   Ohio State at Wisconsin: Bret Bielema has yet to finish better than 5-3 in the Big 10, and he is 0-1 against the Buckeyes.  If the Badgers wants to win their first Big 10 title in the Bielema-era they must get past OSU.  The Buckeyes won last fall’s contest 31-13, but Wisconsin held OSU to 10 offensive points.  OSU returned 2 INT’s for scores and Ray Small returned a KO 96 yards for a score.  Wisconsin limited OSU to 184 yards of offense, and held Terrelle Pryor to 87 yards on 5-13 passing.  Camp Randall Stadium is going to be rocking for this game, and the Badgers will need to get out to a fast start to beat the more talented Buckeyes.

Oct. 23   North Carolina at Miami (FL): Both teams will have a chance at the ACC Coastal title, and this game could end their opponent’s chances.  It’s a battle of contrasting styles, with the Tar Heels emphasizing great defense and a powerful rushing attack.  Miami is a team built around their high-powered offense and deep WR corps.  Which strength wins?  That is what this game will boil down to.

Oct. 23   Wisconsin at Iowa: If Wisconsin does not beat Ohio State in the week prior to this game, it will lose some of its national luster.  It will have significant Big 10 title implications regardless of its national appeal.  Both teams feature powerful rushing attacks.  The Badgers return the big and powerful John Clay, while the Hawkeyes return a host of talented backs.  The Hawkeyes return a talented defensive football team, and they were undefeated in 2009 in games started and finished by Ricky Stanzi.  Wisconsin finished the season strong and looks to climb to the top of the Big 10.

Oct. 30   Oregon at USC: Each of the last two games were blowouts, with Oregon beating USC 47-20 last fall and USC beating Oregon 44-10 in 2008.  In 2007 the Ducks beat the Trojans 24-17.  This game will have huge Pac 10 title implications, and should also be a high scoring affair.  By this time in the season the Ducks QB situation should be a bit more settled, and the young Trojans should be more seasoned.  Whichever defense makes the most plays will likely have the biggest impact in this game.

Oct. 30   Georgia vs. Florida (Jacksonville, FL): Georgia beat up the Gators in 2007 en route to beating the Gators 42-30.  Since then the Gators have outscored the Bulldogs 90-27.  This season the Bulldogs will have an offense that if healthy could be able to go toe-to-toe with the mighty Gators.  The Gators will field a young and inexperienced defense, but one with a great amount of speed and talent.  If the Gators want to again be considered one of the SEC’s best, they need to start giving the Gators a game.  By the time this game is played Aaron Murray will have eight starts under his belt and will be battled tested.  He is the key to this game for the Bulldogs.  If he plays well and the Bulldogs are able to run the football, it could be one of their biggest wins in the past five years.

Nov.  6   TCU at Utah: This game will likely not warrant the type of national hype it should.  But for the football purist this will be a “must-see” game.  TCU blew out the Utes 55-28 last fall, but the Utes won the previous three contests.  Both teams have gone 23-3 over the past two seasons and this game will likely be played between two ranked teams.  Both teams return a lot of talent on offense and have big holes to fill on defense.  It will likely go down as one of the seasons most important and exciting games.

Nov. 20   Virginia Tech at Miami (FL): If Miami plays up to their ability this game will likely have serious ACC Coastal title implications.  Tech beat up Miami last fall en route to a 31-7 victory.  Miami came into the game on a high note, having beaten both a ranked Florida State and a ranked Georgia Tech squad.  After losing to Tech, Miami went on to beat Oklahoma as they got off to a 5-1 start.  Tech will be coming off a huge road game against UNC and the Hurricanes will be coming off a huge road game against Georgia Tech.  If both teams are coming in on a high note, this game will have big ACC and national implications.

Nov. 20   Ohio State at Iowa: Last fall Ohio State beat Iowa in Columbus by a 27-24 score in a game that went to overtime.  Iowa played that game without quarterback Ricky Stanzi.  The Buckeyes are the preseason favorite to win the Big 10 and the Hawkeyes could be their biggest challenger.  If both teams are able to get past Wisconsin this game could be for the Big 10 championship.  Both teams are going to play physical defense and run the football.  Whichever quarterback plays the best (Stanzi vs. Pryor) likely will be the determining factor in who wins this game.

Nov. 26   Auburn at Alabama: This is going to be a fun game to watch.  Auburn should be much better in year two running Gus Malzahn’s offense, and Cameron Newton will have a full season under his belt.  He is the “X-factor” for the Tigers, as he has the size, speed, and throwing ability to dominate the college game.  What we don’t know yet, is whether or not that will mean he is able to turn that potential and talent into production.  If he can, the Tigers will have a fantastic season and Newton could give them the type of standout at QB to give the Tide fits.  Bama will be the favorite, but in a rivalry game you can toss out the spread.  The Tide have a tough 2010 schedule, but have the talent to come into this game with an unblemished record.  Regardless, this game will be a fun to watch and will have a huge impact on just how good Gene Chizik’s team will be in year two.

Nov. 27   Florida at Florida State: Since Urban Meyer arrived in Gainesville this series, which used to be one of the nation’s best, has been dominated by the Gators.  In those five games the Gators have beaten the Noles by a combined score of 182 to 58.  The Noles have failed to score more than 15 points in any of those games; it just has not been a game.  As mentioned above, the Noles are seeking to get back to the top of the college football world.  In Jimbo Fisher’s first season he is looking to show the Noles are back.  If he wants to do that he must beat the Gators.  The Noles have the talent to give Florida a game this fall.  If the Noles are better coached than they have been the past few years, this could be a real good football game.

Nov. 27   Houston at Texas Tech: As much as I like Houston’s offense, I seriously doubt they come into this game undefeated, so I doubt there are any national implications with this game.  It is on this list because it will be one of the more fun games to watch all season.  Case Keenum might be the nation’s best quarterback, and by the time this game is played he will likely be the nation’s all-time passing yards leader.  Texas Tech will likely retain the wide-open offense that was employed under Mike Leach.  Neither team plays much defense, so this game should be a shootout.  Last fall the teams combined for 1063 yards of offense and Keenum ran in from four yards out to give the Cougars a thrilling 29-28 score.

Dec.  4   Pittsburgh at Cincinnati: Last fall this game was for the Big East crown and a berth to a BCS game.  In one of the seasons more exciting games, the Bearcats (led by Brian Kelly) rallied from a 31-10 deficit to upset the Panthers at home by a 45-44 score.  Tony Pike found Armon Binns up the sideline for a 29 yard score to tie the game, and Jake Rogers won it with an extra point.  It was a bitter loss for the Panthers, who look to repay the Bearcats this fall.  Pittsburgh should be a real good team in 2010, as will the Bearcats.  This game might not have BCS title implications like last year’s game did (if Cincinnati won and Nebraska beat Texas the Bearcats would have had a shot to go to the title game against Alabama), but it will be an exciting game and could once again be for the Big East title.

POTENTIAL UPSET SPECIALS

Sep.  2   Pittsburgh at Utah: I struggled putting this game in this category, as I don’t see Utah beating Pittsburgh at home being an upset.  But Pittsburgh will likely start the season ranked relatively high and the Utes will likely be underrated.  The Utes will have the opportunity to get their season off to a great start and vault them into the Top 25.

Sep. 11   Oregon at Tennessee: The Volunteers could be in for a rough season.  Despite having a talented defense returning, a solid back (Tauren Poole), and a talented group of receivers the Vols could struggle do to an uncertain quarterback situation.  The problem for the Ducks is that in week two they will also be unsettled at quarterback.  Derek Dooley will need a huge win early on to keep Vol fans from second guessing his legitimacy as the new Head Coach in Knoxville.  An upset win in this game could also give the Vols some much needed confidence as they begin a brutal conference schedule.

Sep. 16   Cincinnati at N.C. State: Butch Jones will have to work hard to make sure his Bearcats are looking ahead, as Cincinnati has Oklahoma looming after the N.C. State game.  The Wolfpack are a talented football team that has underachieved the last two seasons.  Whether it’s Russell Wilson or Mike Glennon, the Wolfpack will have one of the ACC’s best quarterbacks under center.  That player will also have a talented and fast WR corps to throw to.  If the Wolfpack defense can slow down Cincinnati’s high-powered offense they could pull off the upset.

Sep. 18   Iowa at Arizona: When Iowa beat Arizona 27-17 last fall no one knew just how good the Hawkeyes were going to be.  This year, Iowa will have a huge bullseye on their back, and the Wildcats will be looking for the upset.  Arizona is poised for a breakout season in 2010, and a victory over Iowa will go a long way to making that happen.  Arizona has the speed advantage over the Hawkeyes, while the Hawkeyes will be the bigger and more physical football team.  If Arizona can protect the football and make some big plays they could pull off this upset.

Sep. 18   Nebraska at Washington: Despite losing Ndamukong Suh, the Cornhuskers should still field a talented defense.  They will have to be on the top of their game to beat the Huskies in Seattle.  Washington is coming off a 5-7 season, which was a huge upgrade over the 0-12 season put up by the Tyrone Willingham-led Huskies in 2008.  Great quarterbacks are always the great equalizer in these types of games.  But unlike previous seasons, this fall Jake Locker will have some help.  Washington returns some good offensive football players, and if they can continue to build on their solid 2009 season they could pull off this huge upset.  This win would be huge for their confidence, and also would serve as a big recruiting boost for the young Steve Sarkisian.

Sep. 24   TCU at SMU: I expect TCU to blow out SMU in this game.  But when you are talking about a June Jones coached football team you just never know.  SMU returns a talented young QB in Kyle Padron.  How quickly he matures is going to be the key in this game.  The game is early, and the Horned Frogs had some huge losses on their defense.  This might be early enough for SMU to give them a game, and if Padron can make some plays even pull of a big, big upset.

Sep. 25   Oklahoma at Cincinnati: Oklahoma should win this game with ease, but the Bearcats are going to be very, very good this fall.  When Zach Collaros replaced Tony Pike last fall the Bearcat offense did not miss a beat.  Collaros returns, as does speedy running back Isaiah Pead, split end Armon Binns, slot receiver D.J. Woods, and tight end Ben Guidugli.  The Bearcats also have ultra-talented transfers Vidal Hazelton and Kenbrell Thompkis.  It might seem scary to their opponents, but the Bearcats have even more talent on offense this fall.  This could be the biggest game in Cincinnati’s history, and they will have the firepower to score with Oklahoma.  The key is whether the defense can slow down Oklahoma’s high-powered attack.

Sep. 25   North Carolina at Rutgers: If UNC beats LSU to open the season, something  that is a distinct possibility, they will come into this game feeling very good about themselves.  Rutgers got off to a rough start in 2009, but by the end of the season they were a real good football team.  Their two standout freshman (Tom Savage, Muhamed Sanu) are back, and the Scarlet Knights will once again be good up front.  If Savage and Sanu mature, and the defense can prevent the big play by UNC’s talented WR corps, they could pull off this upset.

Sep. 25   Alabama at Arkansas: The game of football is all about matchups, and this game is a nightmare matchup for the Crimson Tide.  Despite the return of potential All-American Mark Barron at safety, the Tide return very little experience in the secondary.  There will be talent in the group, but it will be a green group of players.  Arkansas returns one of the game’s best quarterbacks in Ryan Mallett, and arguably the most explosive group of receivers in the country in Greg Childs, Jarius Wright, Joe Adams, and tight end D.J. Williams.  Arkansas is one of the few teams that match up well with the Tide.  The key is Mallett.  Last fall he was awful against good defenses, which was especially true against Alabama.  Mallett was 12 of 35 in that game, as Alabama cruised to a 35-7 victory.  If Mallett can be more accurate and the Razorback defense can limit Alabama’s big plays, they could pull off this huge upset.  It won’t be an upset from a talent standpoint, but it will be a huge upset from a perception standpoint.

Nov.  6   Oklahoma at Texas A&M: I have Oklahoma as a potential upset team because I am uncertain how they will be this fall.  They underachieved last fall, but the prior year they had one of the best offensive performances in the history of the game.  There will be talent in Norman, but just how good will they be as a team remains to be seen.  Texas A&M returns arguably the best quarterback in the Big 12 in Jarrod Johnson.  The 6’5 senior has a huge arm, is an effective runner, and returns arguably the best unit of WR’s in the conference.  This game could be a shootout.  A&M has played small in big games, so Sherman needs this game to keep the fans off his back.  If the Aggie defense can step up in this game, they could pull off this stunner.

Nov. 20   Wisconsin at Michigan: This is a bad matchup for the Badgers.  As bad as Michigan was in 2008, they still managed to beat the Badgers at home by a 27-25 score.  The Wolverines have a ton of speed on offense, and if the QB’s can limit the mistakes and make some plays they could score on Wisconsin.  The key is whether or not their defense can slow down the mighty Badger rushing attack.  If Michigan can force a few turnovers and make some plays on offense they could win this game.

Here is my list of the best coaches in the country.  I have it broken down into several groups, which gives me a chance to break them down a bit further.  I have listed the criteria I used below.  No one thing takes precedent with every coach in every situation.  Some will get more credit for one category over another.  What I look for is a coach who excels in each category.  Take Mack Brown for example.  I am probably the only person who will agree that Brown is better than Meyer and Saban.  But here are my reasons.  He has a better win-loss record over his last five years than any other coach, he is 4-1 in bowl games, he has played for two titles, winning one, his teams are well-coached in my view, they are the most consistent team in the country (won 10 or more games every year since 2000), I’ve always thought his teams were pretty good despite not having the kid of talent across the board of Florida, Oklahoma, USC, and Ohio State (something proven correct when I did a study of the NFL Draft results over the last five years), and he has gone 4-2 against Stoops over the last 6 years, 1-1 against Saban, 2-1 against Tressel, 1-0 against Patterson, 5-0 against Gundy, 1-1 against Nutt, 1-0 against Petrino, and 4-0 against Pinkel.  Combine all those things together and I believe Mack Brown is the best at what a HC is supposed to do…..win.

Criteria:

-          Win-Loss Record
-          Bowl Results
-          Championships (Conference, National)
-          On-Field Performance (Fundamentals, Toughness, Execution, Consistency)
-          Consistency (Year after Year)
-          My Impression (My opinion on how his team’s play from games I have watched)
-          Head to Head (Versus other top programs, against other top coaches)
-          I’m more concerned with recent history, but will take into account a coach’s career accomplishments

ELITE COACHES (Great Ones):

1. Mack Brown, Texas: UT Record: 128-27 (12 years); Last 5: 58-8; Bowl Record: 8-4 (1 NC)
2. Nick Saban, Alabama: UA Record: 33-8 (3 years); Last 5: 55-12; Bowl Record: 5-3 (2 NC)
3. Urban Meyer, Florida: UF Record: 57-10 (5 years); Bowl Record: 6-1 (2 NC)
4. Frank Beamer, Virginia Tech: VT Record: 187-92-3 (23 years); Last 5: 52-15; Bowl Record: 8-9

1. MACK BROWN, TEXAS: RESUME: Texas Record: 128-27 (12 years); Last 5: 58-8; UT Bowl Record: 8-4; UNC Bowl Record: 3-2; 2 Big 12 Championships; 1 National Championship.  Brown does not get the credit he deserves.  On top of the numbers already mentioned, his Texas teams are 4-1 against Oklahoma over the last five seasons, including a 45-35 victory over Oklahoma during the 2008 season when OU played Florida for the NC.  Brown’s teams play hard, they are fundamentally sound, and he has adapted as a coach over the past six seasons, after struggling to become a premier team over his first few seasons.  Brown’s teams have also won 10 or more games for nine straight seasons, a record unmatched by any other team in the country right now.  Over the last six seasons Texas has not only gone 4-1 against Oklahoma, they’ve also gone 2-1 against Ohio State, they beat USC, Michigan, and LSU with Nick Saban (2002 Cotton Bowl).  Texas is 8-4 in bowl games under Brown, including 7 of their last 9 (Washington, LSU, Michigan, USC, Iowa, Arizona State, Ohio State).

2. NICK SABAN, ALABAMA: RESUME: Alabama Record: 33-8 (3 years); LSU Record: 48-16 (5 years); Last 5: 55-12; UA Bowl Record: 2-1; LSU Bowl Record: 3-2.  3 SEC Championships; 2 National Championships.  Saban does not do things in a pretty way.  I doubt we will ever see a Saban coached team lead the nation in scoring or total offense.  They will, however, play great defense, special teams, and be physical in all facets of the game.  Saban’s teams are also very fundamentally sound.  If you want to beat Alabama don’t expect them to give you a game, you will have to beat them.  Saban inherited a mess from Mike Shula and got off to a rough start, going 7-6 in 2007.  He followed that up with a 12-2 season in 2008 and an undefeated, 14-0 season that culminate in a win over Texas for the NC.  Saban also won 2 SEC titles and a NC at LSU, going 13-1 in 2003, beating Oklahoma 21-14 in the Sugar Bowl for the championship.  If Saban keeps doing what he has done the last two years he won’t be far from emerging as the No. 1 coach.  Two reasons he dropped in my view are the ugly, ugly bowl loss to Alabama in the Sugar Bowl last season, and the inconsistency of his LSU teams.

3. URBAN MEYER, FLORIDA: RESUME: Florida Record: 57-10 (5 years); UF Bowl Record: 4-1; Utah Bowl Record: 2-0.  2 Conference Championships; 2 National Championships. As must as I might dislike how Meyer has conducted himself at Florida, there is no doubting the fact he is a tremendous coach.  In only five seasons at Florida he has won 2 National Championships, despite not having an undefeated season.  He did, however, have an undefeated season in 2004 with Utah (12-0).  Florida is talented, but when watching Meyer’s teams you also see a team that is well-coached, plays great special teams, and is often at their best in big games.  Their “down year” was 9-4 in 2007.  Florida was the underdog in both NC games, destroying Ohio State in 2006 and shutting down Oklahoma’s high-powered offense in 2008.  Florida has talent, but they also win with toughness and good coaching.  Meyer’s only chink has been his teams tend to be prone to getting beat up by power teams.  See Tommy Tuberville’s Auburn teams, Michigan and Georgia in 2007, Ole Miss in 2008, and Alabama last year.  To counter that, Meyer has owned Florida State (5-0).

4. FRANK BEAMER, VIRGINIA TECH: RESUME: VT Record: 187-92-2 (23 years); Last 5: 52-15; Bowl Record: 8-9; 3 ACC Championships; 3 Big East Championships.  There is not a coach in the nation I respect more than Frank Beamer.  He never has the best players, but year after year his teams do one thing very well: Win!  Beamer’s teams are one of the most fundamentally sound teams in the country.  Florida gives them a run, but no team has played better special teams the last decade.  No one takes more sleeper players and turns them into college standouts than Beamer. I also love the fact that Beamer is not afraid to play the best teams out of conference.  Last season the Hokies played Alabama and Nebraska, they’ve played LSU, USC, and Texas A&M in recent years.  There is one thing keeping Beamer from truly competing for a National Championship: Offense.  Beamer tends to be conservative on offense, and that has hurt him in recent seasons.  When he had a dynamic offense (1999) his team played for the NC.  In recent years they have not utilized the speed and talent they have had on offense.  If that changes, expect to see VT take that next step.  VT has gone 5-3 against Miami and 7-1 against Virginia the last 8 seasons.

NEXT IN LINE (Very Good Coaches):

5. Chris Petersen, Boise State: BSU Record: 49-4 (4 years); Bowl Record: 2-2
6. Mark Richt, Georgia: UGA Record: 90-27 (9 years); Last 5: 48-17; Bowl Record: 7-2
7. Bob Stoops, Oklahoma: OU Record: 117-28 (11 years); Last 5: 50-17; Bowl Record: 4-6 (1 NC)
8. Brian Kelly, Notre Dame: UC/CMU Record: 53-22 (6 years); Last 5: 49-15; Bowl Record: 2-2
9. Kyle Whittingham, Utah: Utah Record: 47-15 (5 years); Bowl Record: 5-0
10. Gary Patterson, TCU: TCU Record: 85-28 (9 years); Last 5: 53-11; Bowl Record: 5-4
11. Jim Tressel, Ohio State: OSU Record: 94-21 (9 years); Last 5: 54-10; Bowl Record: 5-4 (1 NC)
12. Kirk Ferentz, Iowa: Iowa Record: 81-55 (11 years); Last 5: 39-24; Bowl Record: 5-3
13. Bronco Mendenhall, BYU: BYU Record: 49-15 (5 years); Bowl Record: 3-2
14. June Jones, SMU: SMU/UH Record: 85-57 (11 years); Last 5: 37-27; Bowl Record: 4-2
15. Paul Johnson, Georgia Tech: GT Record: 20-7 (2 years: Last 5: 45-19; Bowl Record: 2-4

5. CHRIS PETERSEN, BOISE STATE: RESUME: Record: 49-4 (4 years); Bowl Record: 2-2; 3 WAC Championships.  Petersen has the least amount of experience as any coach on this list, but what he has done in four years is extremely impressive.  Dan Hawkins (53-11 in previous 5 years) did a great job at Boise State, as did Dirk Koetter (26-10 in 5 years), but Petersen has taken Boise State to a whole new level.  The 49-4 record is impressive, but I have to remind myself that it has come against the WAC conference, which I perceive to be a weak football conference.  Boise State, however, has two undefeated seasons in four years, which is impressive regardless of what conference you play in.  Boise State also owns impressive bowl victories over Oklahoma (43-42) and TCU (17-10).  They also own 2 wins over Oregon (37-32, 19-8) a win over Oregon State (42-14), and an impressive win over Utah (36-3).  Petersen’s Bronco offenses are explosive and creative.  They are a well-coached football team and no longer win by out-tricking teams.  Anyone who saw Boise State beat TCU in the Fiesta Bowl this season realized that Boise State is not afraid to go toe-to-toe against physical teams.  If Boise State can beat Virginia Tech this fall I will be very tempted to put Petersen up even higher.

6. MARK RICHT, GEORGIA: RESUME: 90-27 (9 years); Last 5: 48-17; Bowl Record: 7-2; 2 SEC Championships.  Richt does not get the respect he deserves as a top notch football coach.  In the nine seasons before his arrival the Bulldogs finished with a 67-37-1 overall record with zero SEC Championships.  In Richt’s nine seasons in Athens he has compiled a 90-27 record with 2 SEC Championships.  In the 18 seasons between Herschel Walker’s departure and Richt’s arrival the Bulldogs won zero SEC Championships and only had three 10+ win seasons.  In Richt’s nine seasons the Bulldogs have not only won 2 SEC Championships, but have also six seasons of 10+ win seasons.  Last fall, with a young and injury laden roster, the Bulldogs struggled to an 8-5 season, losing three games to teams ranked in the Top 10 (when they played).  But what happened last fall shows again why Richt is such a good coach.  After an embarrassing loss to Kentucky, Georgia rebounded to beat No. 7 Georgia Tech on the road before pounding Texas A&M 44-20 in the Independence Bowl.  Richt also has impressive bowl victories over Florida State (Sugar), Purdue (Capital One), Wisconsin (Outback), Virginia Tech (Chick-Fil-A), Michigan State (Capital One), and a blowout victory over Hawaii (Sugar).

7. BOB STOOPS, OKLAHOMA: RESUME: Record: 117-28 (11 years); Last 5: 50-17; Bowl Record: 4-6; 6 Big 12 Championships; 1 National Championship.  If you would have asked me five years ago who the best coach was I would have been tempted to say Stoops, but that has changed.  Despite this, Stoops is still one of the better coaches in the country if you simply look at wins and losses. Oklahoma was in bad shape when Stoops took over, and in very quick fashion he turned the Sooners back into one of the nation’s premier programs.  Stoops has recruited very well and won a ton of games.  His 6 Big 12 titles in 11 years is impressive.  Stoops has won in different ways.  His teams early on were dominated by defense.  In recent years they have been one of the nation’s best offenses.  In the past few seasons Stoops teams have some really, really bad losses.  The back to back bowl losses to Boise State and West Virginia were painful, as was the 55-19 beating they suffered at the hands of USC in the 2004 NC game.  Texas has owned Oklahoma the last five seasons, and the Sooners also have bad losses to TCU, BYU, Colorado, and they have lost 2 of their last 3 games against Texas Tech.  Oklahoma has a chance to be real, real good this season, and if they have a big year he could easily climb back into the Top 5 of this group.

8. BRIAN KELLY, NOTRE DAME: RESUME: UC Record: 34-6 (3 years); CMU Record: 19-16 (3 years); Last 5: 49-15; GVSU Record: 118-35-2; Bowl Record: 3-2; 2 Big East Championships; 1 MAC Championship.  What Brian Kelly did at Cincinnati was nothing short of phenomenal.  From 1885 to the time Kelly showed up in the Queen City, the Bearcats had one, just one 10+ win season, and that was in 1951.  In Kelly’s three years he had three.  In fact, Cincinnati had only one 9 win season, which was in 1976.  The year before Kelly showed up the Bearcats were 4-7, and in the 10 years prior to his arrival the Bearcats had a 56-62 record.  So the level of winning Kelly brought to Cincinnati was unprecedented.  Kelly’s 19-16 record at CMU might not seem impressive, but when you consider the fact CMU had gone 42-71 in the 10 years prior, and hadn’t won more than 4 games in the previous five seasons.  What Kelly did was take a bad CMU program and turn them into a MAC Champion in only three years; he took an average Cincinnati team and turned them into a team that was a missed FG away from playing for the National Championship.  Over the next three years Kelly will either jump into the Top 5 or drop out of the Top 10.  Notre Dame has far more talent than he inherited at either CMU or UC.  If he turns ND around he will solidify this ranking, if he does not, he will fall.

9. KYLE WHITTINGHAM, UTAH: RESUME: Record: 47-17 (5 years); Bowl Record: 5-0; 1 MWC Championship.  When I sat down to put this list together I did not plan on having Kyle Whittingham in my Top 10.  I’ve always been impressed by his teams, who play hard, are sound, and never back down from anyone.  As I looked at Whittingham’s body of work I became more and more impressed.  Initially I had Gary Patterson ahead of Whittingham, until I realized that in his 5 years at Utah, Whittingham has gone 3-2 against TCU.  Utah also has several impressive out-of-conference wins during his tenure, having beat Michigan, Arizona, and Oregon State.  Utah has some bad losses during that time as well, but really put Whittingham high on my list was just how good they have been the last two years, despite some adversity.  The Utes finished 13-0 in 2008, and capped their season off with an impressive 31-17 beating of Alabama in the Sugar Bowl.  Utah out-coached and out-played Alabama in that game, holding the Tide to 31 rushing yards on 33 carries.  They have also beaten California, Navy, Tulsa, and Georgia Tech in bowl games.  This is a big year for Whittingham.  He returns a lot of talent to his team, including an impressive young QB.  If they can put together another 10+ win season he will have solidified this ranking.

10. GARY PATTERSON, TCU: RESUME: 85-28 (9 years); Last 5: 53-11; Bowl Record: 5-4; 3 MWC Championships.  Patterson has built TCU into one of the nation’s better programs.  The Horned Frogs have yet to finish with an undefeated season in the tough MWC, but have won at least 11 games in 5 of the last 7 seasons.  The Frogs only loss last fall was a hard-fought battle against fellow unbeaten Boise State.  Patterson’s teams have very good rushing attacks, play excellent special teams, and of course are a fast and physical defensive football team.  TCU has impressive out-of-conference victories over Oklahoma, Clemson, Stanford (twice), Texas Tech, South Florida, Arizona, Northwestern, Cincinnati, and Virginia.  Also impressive is TCU’s 4-1 bowl record over the last five years with wins over Boise State, Houston, Northern Illinois, and Iowa State.  Patterson has a chance this fall to really prove the kind of coach he is.  The Horned Frogs lost several outstanding defenders.  If they can reload and have another 10+ win season against a tough schedule he will show that he truly is one of the nation’s best coaches.

11. JIM TRESSEL, OHIO STATE: RESUME: OSU Record: 94-21 (9 years); Last 5: 54-10; Bowl Record: 5-4.  This is likely to be the most controversial selection.  I am not a huge Jim Tressel fan.  If you would have asked me five years ago who my Top 5 coaches were, Tressel would have been on that list.  Combined with winning the 2002 NC over an ultra-talented Miami team and beating Notre Dame impressively in the 2006 Fiesta Bowl, Tressel’s star was certainly on the rise.  The following season the Buckeyes were out-coached and out-played in a 41-14 blowout loss to Florida, a team they should have been competitive against.  I had a lot of questions about Tressel’s play calling the following year when OSU again lost the NC game 38-24 to LSU, a team they should have beaten.  Tressel’s teams have not been coached well the past few years, and were beaten in back-to-back years by USC, showing the Buckeyes are not an elite team, despite having elite talent.  The 2009 loss to USC was most embarrassing, as USC would lose to Washington the next week, and finish the season with 4 losses.  Ohio State also had no business losing to Texas in the 2009 Fiesta Bowl.  Prior to beating an average Oregon team 26-17 in last year’s Rose Bowl, the Buckeyes had lost their previous three bowl games.  Talent has not been the issue, as the Buckeyes have had 31 players drafted in the last five years, including 10 first round picks.  USC is the only team who can boast more overall picks, and no team has had more 1^st rounders in that period of time.  Ohio State also has some bad in conference losses during that time as well.  Tressel has a team that should compete for the NC this year, and if they do, he can regain his status as one of the nation’s best coaches.

12. KIRK FERENTZ, IOWA: RESUME: 81-55 (11 years); Last 5: 39-24; Bowl Record: 5-3; 2 Big 10 Championships.  Ferentz would have been higher on this list if not for some struggles from 2005 to 2007, when the Hawkeyes went 19-18 while struggling at the QB position.  But the Hawkeyes rebounded in 2008 when he rode Shonn Green to a 9-4 record, including wins over No. 3 Penn State (24-23) and a bowl victory over South Carolina (31-10).  The Hawkeyes built on their impressive 2008 season by going 11-2 last fall, including wins over Arizona (27-17), at Penn State (21-10), at Wisconsin (20-10), at Michigan State (15-13), and a 24-14 Orange Bowl victory over ACC Champion Georgia Tech.  Iowa’s only two losses were both close losses, and both were without Ricky Stanzi, who was knocked out early in the loss to Northwestern.  Ohio State needed OT at home to beat Iowa without Stanzi.  Prior to the 2005-2007 slump the Hawkeyes put together a 31-7 record, winning two Big 10 Championships, including the 2002 season when Ohio State actually won the NC.  Iowa has impressive bowl wins over Georgia Tech, South Carolina, LSU, and Florida since the 2003 season.  Iowa returns a ton of talent, so there is nothing keeping Iowa from having another impressive season, which would vault Ferentz back into the Top 10.

13. BRONCO MENDENHALL, BYU: RESUME: Record: 49-15 (5 years); Bowl Record: 3-2; 2 MWC Championships.  Mendenhall is another coach who I did not have on my list initially.  He inherited a bit of a mess at BYU and finished 6-6 in his first season in Provo.  Since then BYU has gone 43-9, which is very, very impressive.  Those seasons include a 38-3 victory over Oregon in the 2006 Las Vegas Bowl, a 17-16 LV Bowl victory over UCLA, and a 44-20 LV Bowl victory over Oregon State.  In the regular season BYU also has impressive victories over Oklahoma (14-13), UCLA (59-0), and Arizona (20-7).  During Mendenhall’s era BYU has also gone 3-2 against Utah and 2-3 against TCU, showing the Cougars deserve to be considered as one of the “elite” teams in the MWC.  Mendenhall’s teams play physical football on both sides of the ball, something new in Provo.  They are a fundamentally sound team, and with the signing of Jake Heaps last fall, Mendenhall has the type of difference-making signal caller to take his program to the next level.

14. JUNE JONES, SMU: RESUME: SMU Record: 9-16 (2 years); Hawai’i Record: 76-41 (9 years); Last 5: 37-27; Bowl Record: 4-2; 2 WAC Championships.  Jones is one of my favorite coaches.  He’s an offensive innovator, and has proven to be able to turn dormant programs around.  In the five years prior to Jones arrival in Hawai’i, the Rainbows finished 12-44-1.  In Jones nine years the Rainbows won 76 games and 2 WAC Championships, including six seasons with 9+ wins.  Jones also led Hawai’i to a 12-0 season in 2007 with a win over Boise State before falling to Georgia in the Sugar Bowl.  In the two years since he has been gone Hawai’i has gone 13-14.  He left Hawai’i for SMU, a program that was 34-81 in the previous 10 seasons.  SMU had not been to a bowl game since 1984, when they beat Notre Dame 27-20 in the Aloha Bowl.  Last fall, in only his second year at SMU, Jones led the Mustangs to an 8 win season that included wins over CUSA Champion East Carolina (28-21) and a 45-10 blowout victory over Nevada in the Hawai’i Bowl.  Jones is a tremendous football coach.

15. PAUL JOHNSON, GEORGIA TECH: RESUME: GT Record: 20-7 (2 years); Navy Record: 45-29 (6 years); Last 5: 45-19; Bowl Record: 2-4; 1 ACC Championship.  I had doubts as to whether Johnson could win with his option offense in a major conference.  9-4 and 11-3 with an ACC Championship in only two years shows that you can win with that offense.  Tech won only 23 games (23-16) in the three years prior to his arrival.  Johnson turned Navy into a tough out as well, going 45-29 during his six years at Navy, including ending Notre Dame’s 44 year winning streak against the Midshipmen.  Johnson also went 62-10 in five years at Georgia Southern, winning two NC’s.  I have two concerns about Johnson moving forward as to just how good he can be at Georgia Tech.  The Yellow Jackets got beat soundly in each of the two bowls they have played in (24-14 to Iowa, 38-3 to LSU).  Can they win those games when their opponents have a month to prepare for their option attack?  The second question is whether or not he’ll be able to recruit at a level that allows him to take his program to the next level on both sides of the football?

BEST OF THE REST:

16. Tommy Tuberville, Texas Tech: AU Record: 85-40 (10 years); Last 5: 47-16; Bowl Record: 6-3
17. Butch Davis, North Carolina: UNC Record: 20-18 (3 years); Last 5: 40-23; Bowl Record: 4-2
18. Houston Nutt, Mississippi: UM Record: 18-8 (2 years); Last 5: 40-23; Bowl Record: 4-5
19. Mike Riley, Oregon State: OSU Record: 64-47 (9 years); Last 5: 41-23; Bowl Record: 5-1
20. Bobby Petrino, Arkansas: UA Record: 13-12 (2 years); Last 5: 45-17; Bowl Record: 3-2
21. Jim Grobe, Wake Forest: WFU Record: 59-51 (9 years); Last 5: 37-26; Bowl Record: 3-1
22. Greg Schiano, Rutgers: RU Record: 55-55 (9 years); Last 5: 43-21; Bowl Record: 4-1
23. Jeff Tedford, California: Cal Record: 67-35 (8 years); Last 5: 42-22; Bowl Record: 5-2
24. Gary Pinkel, Missouri: MU Record: 67-46 (9 years); Last 5: 45-21; Bowl Record: 4-3
25. Randy Edsall, UConn: UC Record: 66-65 (11 years); Last 5: 34-28; Bowl Record: 3-1

STILL WAITING TO SEE:

ART BRILES, BAYLOR: Briles has a 42-44 overall record, which is hardly impressive.  But if you look deeper you will see a guy who is poised to emerge as a top coach.  Houston was 8-26 in the three years prior to Briles’ arrival.  They went 34-28 in his five seasons, and took Houston to three bowl games.  Briles went 4-8 in his first season at Baylor and was poised for an improved 2009 season.  His chances were crushed when super-athlete QB Robert Griffin went down early in the year.  Griffin is back and Baylor is more talented now than when Briles took over (thanks to his solid recruiting).  If he can get Baylor to a bowl game over the next season or two he will get serious consideration as one of the nation’s better coaches.

DAVID CUTCLIFFE, DUKE: 9-15 in two years at Duke might not be impressive, but anyone who has watched Duke over the last two years has to see that Duke is a far better football team right now than they were when Cutcliffe took over.  He was 44-29 at Ole Miss (including 10-3 in 2003) and has a 5-1 Bowl Record.  His offenses at Duke have been good, and they have a lot of young talent coming back.  They should be better this fall, although their record still might not reflect it.  If Cutcliffe can get Duke to a bowl game, he will show me he is truly one of the game’s best head coaches, not just one of the best offensive minds and developers of QB’s.  A lot depends on Sean Renfree this fall.

MARK DANTONIO, MICHIGAN STATE: Prior to last fall I was read to put Dantonio into my Top 25.  In 2008 the Spartans went 9-4, with wins over Notre Dame, Wisconsin, Michigan, Iowa, Northwestern, and Purdue.  Despite blowout losses to Ohio State and Penn State, the Spartans returned a ton of talent and were ready to keep building on the 2008 success.  Early losses to CMU at home and Notre Dame on the road sent Michigan State in a bit of a downward spiral that resulted in a 6-7 season.  There have off-the-field issues as well.  I like Dantonio and believe he can win at MSU, but this year is huge for him.  He has to show that the arrow is pointing up for the Spartans, and he must get MSU back into the upper-echelon of the Big 10.  He returns an ultra talented QB, a deep RB and WR corps, and talent on defense.  The schedule is favorable, so at least 8 wins is necessary for Dantonio.

MIKE GUNDY, OKLAHOMA STATE: At 36-27, Gundy has done a solid job at Oklahoma State.  After going 9-4 in 2008, the Cowboys were supposed to be better in 2009; they were not.  After beating Georgia in Week 1 (a win that was not as impressive by year’s end) the Cowboys got spanked by Houston (45-35), Texas (41-14), Oklahoma (27-0), and Mississippi (21-7).  Oklahoma State took a step back last fall, and Gundy is 0-10 against Texas and Oklahoma.  He needs a rebound season this year and at some point needs a win over Texas or Oklahoma to really take that next step to be known as one of the games better coaches.

SKIP HOLTZ, SOUTH FLORIDA: Holtz’ 38-27 record, 2 Conference USA Championships, and wins over Virginia Tech, Boise State, West Virginia, North Carolina, N.C. State, and Virginia are impressive.  The problem is the CUSA is weak and Holtz also has some bad losses at ECU.  South Florida and the Big East give him a bigger stage to show his stuff.  If he can take USF to the next level he will emerge as one of the nation’s better coaches and could jump into the Top 15.  Holtz will have talent, and he should be able to recruit relatively well in Tampa, so he needs to do more than just maintain the job Jim Leavitt did there.

BUTCH JONES, CINCINNATI: Brian Kelly laid the foundation, but Butch Jones built upon it at CMU.  Jones is a high-energy coach whose teams play to his personality.  He won 2 MAC Championships in three years, and this past season led CMU to a 12-2 record, with wins at Michigan State and a bowl win over Troy.  Their only loss was a tough, hard-fought 19-6 loss to Arizona and Boston College.  Most of their MAC wins weren’t even close.  Cincinnati lost some talent, so it is unfair to expect Jones to repeat last fall’s 12-1 record; but there is still a ton of talent left on campus, so Cincinnati should still compete for the Big East Championship.  Their schedule is tough, with a home game against Oklahoma and road games against Fresno State and N.C. State.

LANE KIFFIN, SOUTHERN CAL: The guy has a 6-7 record as a college football coach, but many just assume he will win just as well as Pete Carroll did at USC.  Perhaps he could do that, but I have some doubts.  Kiffin was an excellent OC at USC and his teams at Tennessee did play VERY HARD.  But they were also unimaginative on offense, and lost some games they should not have, despite having a talented football team.  He will inherit a talented football team, so there is no excuse for him not to win.  How he handles the sanctions that hit USC will also go a long way to determining how good of a coach he is.

RANDY SHANNON, MIAMI (FL): Shannon took a big step forward in 2009, leading the Hurricanes to a 9-4 record.  But I still remember the 48-0 beating they took in 2007 to Virginia, and the fact he is 0-2 against N.C. State.  He is also 0-2 in bowl games, getting thoroughly out-coached and his teams out-played by both California and especially Wisconsin.  Shannon made a great hire in Mark Whipple, and he has recruited well.  He also seems like a good human being, and Miami is arguably the most well-behaved program in Florida.  That alone makes him one of my favorite coaches.  I also love that he plays a tough schedule year after year.  This year Miami starts off with road games against Ohio State, Pittsburgh, and Clemson all by October 2^nd.  The Canes also travel to Georgia Tech and have home games against Florida State, North Carolina, Virginia Tech, and South Florida.  They have one of the toughest schedules in the nation, and if Shannon can take Miami to 9+ wins, and be more consistent, he will emerge as one of the nation’s better coaches.  I’m rooting for him.

MIKE STOOPS, ARIZONA: Stoops’ 33-39 record during his 6 years at UA is not overly impressive.  He inherited a program that was 22-36 in the five prior years to his arrival, so he has been better.  I thought Arizona had taken a big step forward last fall, until Nebraska spanked them in the Holiday Bowl.  They had impressive wins during the 2009 season beating Oregon State on the road, Stanford, Arizona State on the road, and USC on the road.  Even their losses were hard fought football games.  Arizona has gotten better under Stoops.  They return a lot of talent this fall, so I want to see Arizona take a step forward.  If he can do that, and turn UA into a legit Pac 10 contender, Stoops will emerge as one of the nation’s better coaches.

DAVE WANNSTEDT, PITTSBURGH: Wannstedt has too much bad to mix with the good in his five years at Pittsburgh.  His 35-26 record is decent, but the 19-7 over the last two years is pretty good.  Pittsburgh has to show they can be consistent under Wannstedt, and he needs to avoid the bad losses that have marked his tenure in the Steel City.  The Panthers play Utah at home, at Miami (FL), and at Notre Dame out of conference this season.  They also have tough road games in the conference when they travel to UConn, South Florida, and Cincinnati.  If they can manage another 10+ win season against that schedule and perhaps win the Big East, Wannstedt will emerge as one of the nation’s Top 25 coaches.

DROPPING

TOM O’BRIEN, N.C. STATE: O’Brien was an excellent coach at Boston College, putting together a 75-45 record at BC in 10 years.  N.C. State was not in good shape when he took over, but I expected them to be better under O’Brien.  His 16-21 record in three years is very underwhelming.  N.C. State returns a lot of talent on offense this fall and they need to be better.  If they are a bowl team this year than O’Brien will reclaim his standing as one of the games better coaches; if they continue to falter I will have to keep him off the list.

STEVE SPURRIER, SOUTH CAROLINA: How quickly he has fallen.  It was not that long ago that Spurrier was considered one of the best coaches in the business.  In his 12 years at Florida, Spurrier won 122 games, won 6 SEC Championships, and won the 1996 National Championship.  Spurrier not only won, but he changed the game and was a true offensive mastermind.  After he bombed out in the NFL he returned to South Carolina, in hopes of doing in Columbia what he did at both Duke and Florida.  It has not happened.  Under Spurrier USC has been nothing more than an average football team.  They are 35-28 in his 5 years and have failed to win more than 8 games in a season.  This includes a 1-3 bowl record, a 2-3 record against Clemson, and four straight losses to Florida.  He has failed to develop QB’s at USC, and his teams have been known more for defense than offense.  He has talent in Columbia this fall, so another average season will further cement his status as a “has-been.”  If he can regain some fire and turn USC around, he will once again be known as one of the game’s best coaches.

RICK NEUHEISEL, UCLA: Neuheisel won at both Colorado and Washington, racking up a 66-30 record at those two schools.  But those wins came at a cost, as both schools ended up on probation after Neuheisel left.  He has a 11-14 record in his two years in LA.  UCLA was 13-13 in the two years prior to his arrival, and went 10-2 in 2005, so the Bruins have taken a step back.  UCLA had one of the nation’s best recruiting classes last year, so he cannot use talent as an excuse moving forward.  If UCLA doesn’t win quickly, it won’t because they lack talent.

JOE PATERNO, PENN STATE: Penn State has won a lot of games the last few years, but Paterno is dropping on this list because I just don’t believe he is really doing a lot of coaching anymore.  I give more credit to PSU’s success to his assistants.  Paterno is one of the all-time greats, but he is no longer in that category.

POTENTIAL STARS IN THE MAKING

BRET BIELEMA, WISCONSIN: Bielema was a young star after going 12-1 in his first year with Barry Alvarez’s players.  After that great start, the Badgers had a couple of average years, going 16-10 during the 2007 and 2008 seasons.  Wisconsin took a giant step forward last year, going 10-3 with Bielema’s players.  The 10-3 record included an impressive whooping of Miami (FL) in the Champs Sports Bowl.  Wisconsin has Ohio State at home this fall, and Penn State is off the schedule.  Their toughest games are road trips to Iowa, Michigan State, and Michigan.  The Badgers return a lot of talent on both sides of the ball, so they can and should compete for the Big 10 title this year.  If they can unseat the Buckeyes for the Big 10 crown Bielema will emerge as one of the nation’s best coaches.  My one issue with Wisconsin is they do not play a tough out-of-conference schedule, something I’d like to see change.

GENE CHIZIK, AUBURN: Prior to the 2009 season I would never have considered Chizik for this list.  Chizik was 5-19 in his two years at Iowa State and only went 8-5 last fall with the Tigers.  I do, however, believe Chizik did a fine job last season, and his recruiting so far has been very, very good.  Auburn was not as talented last season as they have been in past years, and Chizik improved the win total from 5 to 8 in his first season.  A key or him is to not only continue recruiting, but also to keep Gus Malzahn on his staff as long as possible.  Auburn had some bad losses last fall, but also had some good wins.  The arrow is pointing up for the Tigers, but the 2010 season will be big for Chizik.  He cannot take a step back if he wants to keep the positive feeling and recruiting momentum he has built up.  Chizik believes in playing fast and playing hard, which is ideal for the type of athlete Auburn will usually get.

PAT FITZGERALD, NORTHWESTERN: Fitzgerald will likely never compete for a NC at Northwestern, so he will not be defined entirely by wins and losses.  But I have loved what I have seen from his NU teams in his four years at the helm.  He took over under tough, tough circumstances with the tragic death of Randy Walker, someone I respected a great deal.  After a rough first season (4-8) the Wildcats have continued to get better and better.  Their bowl game against Auburn last fall was one of the best games all season.  NU beat Iowa on the road and Wisconsin at home to finish off the season, which are two huge wins over two real good programs.  They beat Iowa on the road in 2008, beat a ranked Minnesota team on the road, and beat Michigan on the road that same season.  Fitzgerald’s teams will always be in the bottom half of the conference in talent, but he continues to have them in the top half of the standings.  He’s a star in the making, but one I would not be surprised to see stay at NU for a long time, which I would love to see happen.

JIM HARBAUGH, STANFORD: Harbaugh is another star on the rise, despite not having a great win-loss record.  Harbaugh is only 17-20 in his three years in Palo Alto, with 8-5 being his best record.  But anyone who has watched Stanford over the last decade knows that Harbaugh has quickly turned around a program that was downright awful.  His teams play hard, physical football and his recruiting has been excellent for Stanford.  The talent level of his football team has greatly increased.  In his three years he also has wins over USC (twice), Oregon, and Notre Dame.  Stanford beat three ranked teams last fall, and I believe if Andrew Luck was healthy they would have also beat Oklahoma in the Sun Bowl.  This is a big season for Harbaugh.  Despite losing Toby Gerhardt, the Cardinal return a ton of talent, especially on offense.  Despite a relatively tough schedule, the Cardinal should win at least 8 games once again.  Luck is a young star and his supporting cast is pretty good.  Harbaugh has to get himself controlled on the sidelines, and although I like his risk-taking, he needs to be smarter with it.  If he can lead the Cardinal back to a bowl game this fall he will certainly be a candidate for one of the nation’s best coaches.

TURNER GILL, KANSAS: Gill only has a 20-30 record, which doesn’t seem like much; but one must consider where he has been the last four years.  Buffalo was arguably the worst D1 team in the nation prior to his arrival, going 8-49 in the previous five seasons.  Gill won 8 games in 2008 alone.  His teams are physical, they are extremely well-coached, and are now a solid mid-level program.  Gill goes back to the Big 12, where he was an assistant coach at Nebraska.  Gill is going to change the way Kansas plays the game.  Gone is the Mangino spread, arrived is a form of physical football that is now a bit of a rarity in the Big 12.  Kansas lost a lot of talent, but so far Gill has done a good job recruiting.  It might take him a year or two to really turn things around, but if he can win at Kansas he will emerge as one of the game’s brightest stars.

AL GOLDEN, TEMPLE: Like Gill, Golden has an unimpressive W-L record at Temple.  He is only 19-30 in his four years.  In the eight years prior to his arrival, Temple went 19-60.  Temple was a team rumored to be considering moving to the I-AA level, or possibly dropping football.  With Golden at the helm they have gotten better each season, and last fall the Owls went 9-4, including a road win over Navy, which is a huge season considering the school.  Golden believes in physical football, and his teams are going to run the football and be sound.  It would not surprise me to see Golden emerge as a hot candidate for a big time program in the very near future.  Golden is the kind of guy who would be excellent as a HC in the Big 12 or Big 10.  He was an ace recruiter at Penn State and Virginia and is a very good defensive mind.  He’s one of the game’s best young coaches and a rising star.

CHIP KELLY, OREGON: Kelly had an impressive 10-3 record in his first season as head coach, culminated by a Rose Bowl berth.  The problem is that in that 10-3 season were some really bad losses (ugly 19-8 loss to Boise State, gave up 51 points to Stanford), and the Ducks have had numerous off-the-field incidents in his brief time as the HC.  How he responds to these problems is going to go a long way to selling me on his ability as a HC.  We all know Kelly is a tremendous offensive mind, what remains to be seen is if he is as good of a HC as he was as an OC.  The talent is there, the facilities are there, and he has recruited well.  If he can clean up the program and continue to win games, he will emerge as a young star in the making.

DAN MULLEN, MISSISSIPPI STATE: I have had the privilege of spending a good amount of time talking football with Dan Mullen.  He is truly one of the brightest offensive minds in the games.  He was the OC on Utah’s 2004 team that went 12-0, and was the OC for both of Florida’s NC teams.  Mullen did very well in his first season at Mississippi State, which might not be evident by the 5-7 record MSU pulled off in his rookie campaign.  What the record does not show is that Mullen’s teams were competitive, they played hard, they were obviously well-coached, and he pulled off a huge win to finish their season (41-27 over Ole Miss).  His recruiting has been solid, and Mullen has a lot of charisma.  If he can continue to build on the 5-7 season he pulled off last fall he will emerge as one of the nation’s top coaches.

STEVE SARKISIAN, WASHINGTON: Prior to his arrival the Huskies went 0-12, and were really only competitive in three games.  Tyrone Willingham had driven UW into the ground.  In 2009 Sarkisian was able to take the same players and turn them into a 5-7 team, with wins over USC, Arizona, and a 42-10 beating of California in the final game of the season.  UW also battled with LSU, Notre Dame and UCLA in close losses.  Washington still lacks top flight talent, but they were a more fundamentally sound football team last fall, and Sarkisian’s recruiting has been solid.  The 5-7 season was a good start, but Sarkisian needs to keep it going.  I believe he is going to turn UW into one of the Pac 10’s better programs, which will make him a young star in the coaching ranks.

KEVIN SUMLIN, HOUSTON: Not only has Sumlin gone 18-9 over the past two seasons, with victories over Oklahoma State, Texas Tech, Mississippi State, ECU, a ranked Tulsa team, and Air Force but his offenses have been one of the nation’s best.  Houston is certainly fun to watch.  UH outplayed Oklahoma State and Mississippi State on the road, and had a tremendous comeback victory over Texas Tech at home.  If Sumlin can continue this level of success at UH he will begin to get more attention, which is deserved.  He has arguably the best QB in the country (Case Keenum), so the tools are there for a 10+ win season.  Sumlin also has a tremendous pedigree, so keep an eye on him when big time jobs come open next fall, he will be a hot commodity.

UP AND COMERS

Robb Akey, Idaho – If he can keep building the program will develop a good rep, just one good year so far
Tim Beckman, Toledo – Has a pretty good defensive coach for years, great personality, could do well at UT
Troy Calhoun, Air Force – Teams play hard, innovative, has some big wins already
Dave Christensen, Wyoming – Very good OC at Toledo and Missouri, the arrow is pointing up at Wyoming
Dave Clawson, Bowling Green – Very good I-AA HC, good offensive mind, could do well at BGSU
Kevin Fedora, Southern Miss – Has recruited well, just needs to take the next step with his program
Todd Graham, Tulsa – Already has two 10+ win seasons, if he rebounds this year will start to rise
Brady Hoke, San Diego State – Turned Ball State around, will do the same with SDSU
Danny Hope, Purdue – Love the way his teams play, physical, sound, multiple, good fit for Purdue
Bo Pelini, Nebraska – Did a great job on defense in 2009, if the offense can match could become a top flight HC, I’d love to see him at LSU
Paul Rhodes, Iowa State – Turned ISU around in one year, took the Cyclones to a bowl win in his first season

FIRST YEAR COACHES TO WATCH

Jimbo Fisher, Florida State – Will do very well I believe, good recruiter, good offensive mind, FSU will be back
Bobby Hauck, UNLV – Last couple of Montana coaches did not do well, Hauck has a chance to change that
Mike London, Virginia – Great guy, excellent recruiter, will do a great job in UVA – potential star coach, and it could happen relatively quickly
Joker Phillips, Kentucky – Has been at UK for awhile as the OC, has recruited okay, is a solid coach
Charlie Strong, Louisville – Did a great job as DC at Florida and has recruited well already

ON THE HOT SEAT

TIM BREWSTER, MINNESOTA: Minnesota should have never fired Glen Mason, and I would bet some folks on campus realize that now.  Brewster started off rough, going 1-11 in his first season.  But year two showed some progress, with Minnesota going 7-6.  The bad news is they lost their final five games, including blowout losses to Michigan, Iowa, and Kansas.  Minnesota finished 6-7 last fall, with blowout losses to California, Penn State, and Ohio State.  Brewster brought in a spread offense, which was a big part of the 2008 success and gave me optimism concerning his chances to win.  He has abandoned that idea, to his detriment.  If his team struggles as much as I expect it to, he could be in big trouble.

DENNIS ERICKSON, ARIZONA STATE: Things got off to a great start for Erickson in Tempe, going 10-3 in his first season.  The Sun Devils have gotten progressively worse ever since, going 5-7 in 2008 and 4-8 last fall.  They started last season off well, going 4-2, but lost their final six games by an average of 10 points.  They were competitive in losses to Georgia, California, USC, and Arizona; but at a place like ASU close does not cut it.  Erickson needs to get things turned around very quickly, but another disaster like 2009 could really make it hard for the ASU administration to keep him on board.

DAN HAWKINS, COLORADO: Is a real good human being, and was a tremendous coach at Boise State (53-11 in 5 years), but Hawkins has really struggled in Boulder (16-33 in 4 years).  The QB controversy that surrounds his son does not help his perception in the media as well.  The great recruiting class he had in 2008 has bombed out for the most part.  He also has some real bad losses (Montana State, Toledo, Colorado State) and outside of the 2007 Oklahoma win, the Buffaloes have not been all that competitive against the league’s best teams.  He really needs to show that the arrow is pointing up this season if he wants to stay on at Colorado.  Sticking with Tyler Hansen will help, along with a talented WR corps.  I’m pulling for Hawkins, who is one of the “good guys” in my book.

MIKE HAYWOOD, MIAMI (OH): I hope the Miami administration gives Haywood time to turn things around, if he is able.  He inherited a bad situation, with Miami having two seasons of 2-10 in the three years prior to Haywood’s arrival.  The problem is, Miami was really, really, really bad last fall.  They just weren’t competitive.  Haywood really needs to show progress this fall, which shouldn’t be too hard, considering they went 1-11 last fall.  It won’t be easy, as Miami has road games against Florida, Missouri, and Cincinnati out-of-conference.  They also have a tough home game against Colorado State.  It could be a long season in Oxford.

GREG MCMACKIN, HAWAII: In the two years prior to McMackin being named HC at Hawai’I, the Rainbows went 23-4 with a Sugar Bowl appearance.  In the two years of the McMackin era the Rainbows have gone 13-14.  He has to get the arrow pointed back up if he wants to keep his seat cold.

LES MILES, LSU: This might be a surprising name on this list, but I believe it is legit.  With a roster dominated primarily by Nick Saban’s recruits, Miles was able to go 34-6, winning the 2007 National Championship.  Since then he has gone 8-5 and 9-4, which aren’t bad seasons, but far below what LSU fans expect….fair or not.  Over the last five seasons LSU has signed four Top 10 classes (in five years) so talent should not be the problem.  Miles has benefitted from having two excellent DC’s on his football team, but his offenses have been very inconsistent, even during their championship season.  The talent in Baton Rouge was better than 8-5 last fall, and will be good again this season, so there are no excuses for Miles if he fails.  If Miles wants to get the Tiger faithful off his back he needs to get things turned around, and it needs to happen this fall.

RICH RODRIGUEZ, MICHIGAN: It was said prior to last season that Rodriguez always had his teams turned around by “Year 2.”  It was this way at West Virginia as the HC and it was this way at Clemson as the OC.  It was not so with Michigan last fall.  The Wolverines got off to an impressive 4-0 start, with a win over Notre Dame, so there was hope for Big Blue.  That hope quickly faded, as Michigan finished the season 1-7, with the only win coming against FCS team Delaware State.  The low point was the blowout loss to Illinois (38-13), a team that finished with only three wins on the season.  Rodriguez got better play out of his young offense, but the defense was a mess.  He is relying on Greg Robinson, one of the game’s better people, to turn around the defense; but so far that has not worked out very well.  Michigan returns a ton of talent on offense at all positions, and bring back some solid players up front on defense.  They should at least be able to compete for a bowl game this fall, as they are now in “Year 3” of the Rodriguez regime.  If they can’t show improvement this fall Rodriguez could be in big, big trouble.  Michigan folks will be far less tolerant of some of the “off-the-field” issues if the team isn’t winning.

MIKE SHERMAN, TEXAS A&M: Dennis Franchione left Sherman with decent talent, and Sherman has done well to add to it, but the wins have not yet followed.  Texas A&M has a super talented group of offensive football players returning this fall, so they should win more games.  TAMU had some real bad losses last fall, and were often not competitive against the better teams on their schedule, which is inexcusable for a team with as much firepower as TAMU possesses.  This fall they return a super talent in QB Jerrod Johnson, who has a tremendous group of offensive players returning.  If Sherman wants to take TAMU to the next level, as a legit Big 12 contender, he has to get the defense going.  I do not see Sherman getting fired this season, barring a completely collapse, but he has to get the arrow pointing up, so this is a big year for him.

RON ZOOK, ILLINOIS: If it weren’t for Zook’s 9-4 2007 season he would likely already be gone.  He has recruited well, but he has not coached well.  In his five years at Illinois, he has two 2 win seasons and a 3 win season, and Illinois has been one of the nation’s biggest disappointments each of the last two seasons.  It seemed as if players regressed the longer they were in the program.  If Illinois doesn’t turn things around real fast and get to a bowl game this year, I would be utterly shocked if Zook is retained.  Hiring Paul Petrino to run his offense was a great hire and could help save his job.

I keep hearing all this hand-wringing about Kelly not getting the job done in recruiting, people not being happy with how recruiting is going so far, etc, etc, etc.  I think it is absolutely NUTS to be unhappy with recruiting.  I will not argue that things are going "GREAT," but given the circumstances I am very, very pleased SO FAR with how recruiting is going.  A friend and I were talking when Kelly got hired and we both agreed that Kelly absolutely MUST have 6-8 recruits already on board.  We agreed that OL, OLB, and DB were the most important positions in this class, with DE and WR being right behind.  So Kelly has basically doubled what I thought would be a "best case scenario" for his recruiting efforts.

Kelly was the guy I wanted to be hired, and I've been saying it since USC spanked ND 38-3 to end the 2008 season.  I wanted a guy who could actually coach.  Notre Dame got that guy.  Will he be able to do it in South Bend?  That remains to be seen, but I am hopeful and optimistic.  The only question I had about Coach Kelly, and I talked about this in a blog last week, was whether or not he could recruit at a National Championship level.  Now, my idea of a NC level is obviously different than most on the boards.  NC level does not mean you have 4 and 5 star "elite" talents at each position.  To me, Alabama blew that argument out of the water.  But Kelly was not a big name, perhaps amongst fans to a certain degree, but not with HS kids.  Cincinnati is not known outside of the MIdwest.  He is not a "name" that is going to sell to recruits.  But I do think he can coach, so what he is going to have to sell is not his "charm" in the sense of an Urban Meyer or Lane Kiffin or Mack Brown.  So without having coached a game, my expectations for this point in the season were not high, hence the 6-8 kids to be committed by the time camp starts.

So here's the question.....

1) What were your expectations for recruiting up to this point?  Did you think Kelly was going to come in, blow recruits away with his Cincinnati resume, and land a long list of 4 and 5 star "elite" talents from the South and Southwest?  Did you think he was going to come in his first year and land a Top 5 class?  What were your honest expectations for Kelly as a recruiter UP TO THIS POINT IN TIME.  I don't care about what we expect to happen come February.  That will play itself out.  But what were your expectations for this staff as recruiters come July 5th of 2010?  I gave mine.  I expected hopefully 6-8 kids by the time the season started, and expected those kids would be Midwest kids and Northeast kids.  I did not expect Clay Burton and Matthew Hegarty to be on board.  I did not expect a Jordan Prestwood type player.  ND has done well in NC, so I'm not surprised by Matthias Farley and Ben Councell.  Three Ohio players already is also a plus for me, despite the fact OSU didn't offer them.  The thing to remember is that the more games ND wins (hopefully), the more the "elite" Ohio kids outside of Cincinnati will consider ND, and the more Ohio kids they have on their roster, regardless of where they were ranked....the better.  Same argument with Texas.

So to answer my own question, I expected 6-8 recruits, Midwest and Northeast kids primarily, and for the "elite" players in the country to not give ND much of a sniff.  Even though they have missed on their fair share of kids, and aren't high on some others lists, I am pleased by how well this staff has been received.

Some points for comparison....

Charlie Weis, who many on this board consider to be a great recruiter, had the following class assembled by this point in 2005: (Rivals rankings, date of commitment in parenthesis)

Munir Prince, RB, 3*, MO (4/3/05)
Barry Gallup, WR, 3*, MA (4/10/05)
Zach Frazer, QB, 4*, PA (4/14/05)
Paddy Mullen, DT, 3*, MO (4/23/05)
Kallen Wade, DE, 3*, OH (4/24/05)
James Aldridge, RB, 5*, IN (5/2/05)
Luke Schmidt, FB, 3*, IN (5/27/05)
John Ryan, DE, 3*, OH (6/15/05)
Robby Parris, WR, 3*, OH (7/11/05)

9 commits

5* - 1
4* - 1
3* - 7

Their "big names" from that class (Walls, Young, Wenger, Olson, Stewart, Reuland) did not come until AFTER they started off hot in 2005.

The Class of 2007 had bigger names (Clausen, Kamara, Ragone) and Kerry Neal ended up being a 4 star player, as did Andrew Nuss.  But those 7 players (Clausen, Kamara, Ragone, Neal, Paskorz, Nagel, Nuss) were not as deep as Kelly's current class.  Clausen gave them name recognition and was a star, Kamara and Ragone were Top 100 players.  But the current class at ND makes up for "star power" with more depth, spread out talent (not just focused at offensive skill positions), and already has more southern talent than either of Weis's first two classes.  In the first two years Weis did well in California, but did not land much southern talent.  Only Kerry Neal and Andrew Nuss were "southern" kids, and anyone in the south will argue whether or not Virginia is "southern."  Kelly's current class has two kids from Florida (one with a UF and Bama offer), two NC players, and one player from the southwest (something Weis rarely did).

Compare that to Kelly's current class:

Brad Carrico, DE, 3*, OH (3/20/10)
Jordan Prestwood, OL, 3*, FL (4/5/10) - Remember, he's a Top 100 player on both ESPN and Scout, only Rivals has him low
Kyle Brindza, K, 2*, MI (4/15/10) - Arguably the best kicker in the country by the way
Matthias Farley, CB, 3*, NC (4/21/10)
Conor Hanratty, OL, 3*, CT (4/24/10)
Jarrett Grace, LB, 3*, OH (4/24/10) - 4 star on Scout
Tony Springmann, DE, 3*, IN (4/24/10)
Ben Koyack, TE, 4*, PA (4/27/10) - 5 star on Scout
Matthew Hegarty, OL, 4*, NM (4/28/10 - #24 according to ESPN
Clay Burton, OLB, 3*, FL (6/18/10) - 4 star on ESPN
Eilar Hardy, CB, 4*, OH (6/25/10)
Ben Councell, OLB, 3*, NC (6/27/10)

12 commits

5* - 0 (1 on Scout)
4* - 3 (Prestwood is a 4 star on Scout and ESPN)
3* - 9

So, what were your expectations, and what reason did you come up with those expectations?  Especially considering the last 10 years of Notre Dame football.

To me it boils down to this.  The current HC and staff have done about as good of a job recruiting as could have been reasonably expected considering the situation they found themselves in (16-21 record in the previous 3 years, fired staff, haven't competed for a NC since 1993).  If they win, they will land kids, if they don't, they will struggle to land elite classes.  Also, I'll take the coaching potential of this staff over the short term "bump" ND MIGHT have gotten had they landed Bob Stoops.

Thoughts?

So as recruiting is starting to wind down for the summer and the fall is ready to commense (which tends to really shake things up in recruiting) I thought I'd scour the "prospect list," see where ND stands with players, and try to put together a class that is both "realistic" and one that would also leave me happy with the recruiting efforts.  This is what my class will look like:

So I factored in players that will graduate, 5th years that I personally think will be leaving after this fall, and players I think might leave early for the NFL.  The number I came up with was a maximum of 21 scholarships.  Any transfers would obviously change this number, but I hate talking about a kid transferring.

I also factor in need of position into this list.

Here goes (Ht/Wt according to ESPN):

Phillip Ely, QB, 6'1, 188, FL - Won't wow you with stature, but does with productivity, winning, leadership, toughness, and accuracy
Savon Huggins, RB, 5'11, 190, NJ - He's going to be tough to get, but a strong showing this fall by Armando Allen REALLY helps
Kasen Williams, WR, 6'2, 200, WA - He watches Michael Floyd blow up this fall and sees himself doing that in South Bend
DaVaris Daniels, WR, 6'2, 165, IL - I know, I know, but he's too good a kid and too talented to give up on.
Ben Koyack, TE, 6'5, 228, PA - Nation's 2nd best TE is a WR in a TE's body, typical PA toughness - already in the fold
Matthew Hegarty, OL, 6'5, 265, NM - Best pure LT in the country and a 5 star player in my view - already in the fold
Jordan Prestwood, OL, 6'6, 265, FL - TE turned OT will blow people away this fall as an OL, going to be a Top 100 kid when it's all done - already in the fold
Conor Hanratty, OL, 6'4, 300, CT - Raw, but a great frame, as he develops and matures he could be a solid player - already in the fold
Zach DeBell, OL, 6'6, 270, FL - Raw, new to the position, but very athletic and a tough kid - He gives ND arguably the most athletic group of OL in the country
Aaron Lynch, DE, 6'5, 245, FL - Florida will be tough to beat, but I'm not giving up on him - Is going to see Ethan Johnson this fall and know he can be just as dominant
Brad Carrico, DE, 6'5, 260, OH - Tough, hard-nosed, great frame, just has to learn to take his game to another level intensity wise - If he does, watch out - already in the fold
Tony Springmann, DE, 6'6, 255, IN - Great frame, big time motor, needs time, but love his potential as a run stuffer - already in the fold
Clay Burton, OLB, 6'3, 225, FL - Natural pass rusher, very fluid athlete, natural for the Cat LB position at ND - already in the fold
Ben Councell, OLB, 6'4, 225, NC - Great athlete for his size, fast, fluid, and a natural in coverage, Burton's perfect compliment at Dog - already in the fold
Jarrett Grace, ILB, 6'3, 230, OH - Ideal inside plugger, tough, hard nosed, strong in tight spaces, very good instincts, tremendous frame - already in the fold
Lyndell Johnson, S, 6'2, 190, TX - Rangy, athletic, tough kid that would be a great pick up for a safety position in need of talent, size, and range
Matthias Farley, CB, 6'1, 185, NC - Super athlete is only going to get better with experience, a big steal - already in the fold
Eilar Hardy, CB, 6'0, 175, OH - Tough kid, smart, instinctive, fluid, will need time to learn CB, but has the tools for it in this defense - already in the fold
Jalen Brown, CB, 6'0, 175, TX - Physical and instinctive player, perfect for ND's new style of play, also a Texas kid, which I want more of, Pelini wants him, that's enough for me
Kyle Brindza, K, 6'1, 198, MI - Strong leg, at the very least will be a dominant kickoff guy, but more than just power - already in the fold
Miles Shuler, ATH, 5'10, 167, NJ - Still learning to play football more naturally, but you cannot teach this speed, and the Irish need more speed

Some of these players will be tough to land for a variety of reasons.  But I do believe the Irish have a realistic shot with each player that I've listed above.  I did not include any "pipe dreams," which is what I consider players like Ray Drew, Giorgio Newberry, Ishaq Williams, and Cyrus Kouandjio.  I would LOVE to land Wayne Lyons, a player who I think ND could entice with the combination of academics and athletics.  But Florida, where his sister goes to school, will be tough to be.  If Huggins goes elsewhere I would be very, very pleased if ND landed either Justice Hayes (love him in Kelly's offense), Brandon Bigelow, or Amir Carlisle. I also have never gotten the kind of vibe from George Atkinson that would make me think ND lands him, although I am hopeful.  I love Anthony Rabasa, but I will not get my hopes up about a standout from Miami, with offers from Florida schools, coming to ND.  I hope I'm wrong.  Christian French is a great athlete, and I have a feeling he will want to play WR.  Don't think it's the best fit for him, but I think that might hurt ND in the end.  Again, these are all my predictions, and are not based on any type of inside scoop or talking to players or coaches.  I do none of that.

As I grade this class I see four 5 star players (Huggins, Williams, Hegarty, Lynch).  I also see six other players who will contend to be in someone's Top 100 (Ely, Daniels, Koyack, Prestwood, DeBell, Burton).  The other players are guys with alot of ability, but for one reason or another might not be listed quite as high, although I expect Councell, Grace, Johnson, Farley, Hardy, and Brown will be four star players.  Overall I would be excited about this class, as it would give ND star power, improve the speed and talent of the roster, get into areas I want to see ND get into (FL, TX, NJ, PA), and it would address all the needs of the roster to varying degrees.

ELITES
1. Kyle Rudolph, 6’6, 265, Jr., Notre Dame
2. Lance Kendricks, 6’4, 239, Sr., Wisconsin
3. Orson Charles, 6’3, 230, Soph., Georgia 
4. Weslye Saunders, 6’6, 273, Sr., South Carolina
5. D.J. Williams, 6’2, 251, Sr., Arkansas
6. Luke Stocker, 6’6, 253, Sr., Tennessee
7. Zack Pianalto, 6’4, 255, Sr., North Carolina
8. Daniel Hardy, 6’4, 235, Sr., Idaho
9. George Bryan, 6’5, 265, Jr., N.C. State
10. Kavario Middleton, 6’5, 245, Jr., Washington

1. KYLE RUDOLPH, JR., NOTRE DAME: Rudolph is ranked this high mainly on projection, despite his 33 receptions, 364 yards, and 3 TD’s in 2009 in only 9 games played.  Through the first five games of the 2009 season Rudolph was arguably the most dominant TE in the country.  Through the first five Rudolph had racked up 21 receptions for 267 yards and 3 scores.  That also included the game winning TD against Purdue and the go-ahead TD against Washington with 1:20 remaining in the 4^th quarter.  Rudolph is huge, he’s an excellent athlete for his size, and he is very hard to bring down.  Kelly’s offense loves throwing to the TE, so expect to see Rudolph’s numbers take a huge jump.  The key for him is consistency.

2. LANCE KENDRICKS, SR., WISCONSIN: To me there are two TE’s who are above all others in terms of shear talent; they are Rudolph and Wisconsin senior Lance Kendricks.  Despite being the backup to Garrett Graham last fall, Kendricks finished with 29 receptions, 356 yards, and 3 TD’s.  He destroyed Miami in the Champs Sports Bowl with 7 receptions, 128 yards, and a TD.  Kendricks is a big time pass catcher thanks to his size, speed, and ball skills.  Expect to see him at least match Graham’s 51 receptions, 624 yards, and 7 TD’s from last fall.  He will certainly be a favorite target of Scott Tolzien, and the emergence of Nick Toon will make it hard for teams to key on Kendricks.

3. ORSON CHARLES, SOPH., GEORGIA: The nation’s top freshman TE showed his HS rankings were more than justified.  Charles finished his impressive freshman season with 23 receptions, 374 yards (16.3 average) and 3 TD’s.  Despite the presence of another talented TE in Arron White, expect Charles to become a favorite of freshman QB Aaron Murray.  Charles is fast, athletic, and a pure pass catcher.  He is a matchup nightmare for safeties and linebackers, and teams will not be able to key on him with the return of A.J. Green, Tavarris King, Marlon Brown, and White.  As Georgia breaks in their new QB it would be wise to make Charles a focal point of the offense.  The SEC is loaded with talented TE’s, but Charles is the most talented of the bunch.

4. WESLYE SAUNDERS, SR., SOUTH CAROLINA: Saunders struggled to stay healthy in 2009 but still finished with 32 receptions, 353 yards, and 3 TD’s.  Saunders is a massive TE who is more of a “traditional” player who works the seams, the middle of the field, and will be a chain mover.  Saunders is a surprisingly good athlete for a player of his size, and he is simply too big for safeties to cover.  Assuming Stephen Garcia matures (which is a huge assumption), expect to see Saunders become more of a factor in the pass offense.  This would take some of the pressure off the young but talented Gamecock receivers.

5. D.J. WILLIAMS, SR., ARKANSAS: There is simply too much talent on the Razorback offense to expect Williams to match his impressive 2008 numbers, which saw him go for 58 receptions and 699 yards.  Despite the emergence of Greg Childs, Jarius Wright, and Joe Adams, Williams still finished the 2009 season with 32 receptions, 411 yards, and 3 scores.  It would be wise for Ryan Mallett to look for Williams more than he did last fall.  It would make the offense more consistent, take some of the pressure off Mallett, improve his completion percentage, and make the Arkansas offense far more efficient.  Bobby Petrino likes throwing to TE’s, so Williams will certainly get his touches this fall.

6. LUKE STOCKER, SR., TENNESSEE: Stocker is a throw-back TE who has excellent size and blocking ability to go with his solid pass catching skills and athleticism.  Stocker might not match the above-mentioned players in sheer “talent,” but do not be surprised to see him match their numbers.  Stocker will be needed early on as Tennessee breaks in a new QB (either Matt Simms or Tyler Bray).  Derek Dooley loves throwing to TE’s and his OC is a former TE coach, so expect to see Stocker’s 2009 numbers (29-389-13.4-5 TD) increase significantly.  Stocker also provides a young an unproven line with a big body who can help the run game get going, as well as give help in protection.  The key for Stocker is whether or not a QB emerges and the WR corps (Gerald Jones, Denarius Moore, Da’Rick Rogers, Justin Hunter) can make enough plays to open up the middle of the field.

7. ZACK PIANALTO, SR., NORTH CAROLINA: Despite missing five games, Pianalto finished the 2009 season with 33 receptions, 334 yards, and 1 TD.  Pianalto must stay healthy in 2010, and the young but talented WR corps must make more plays.  If both these things happen Pianalto will have a big year and boost his stock heading into the 2011 NFL Draft.  He’s got the size and athleticism to be a big time player over the middle of the field.  A productive Pianalto also gives whoever the QB is (T.J. Yates or Bryn Renner) an excellent target over the middle, in the seams, and especially in 3^rd down situations.

8. DANIEL HARDY, SR., IDAHO: If you want to see one of the nation’s best downfield threats from the TE position, than watch Idaho this fall.  Hardy’s 39 receptions, 691 yards (17.7 average) and 3 TD’s were a big reason Idaho shocked the college football world with an explosive offense that led to 8 wins, after winning only 7 games in the three previous seasons combined.  Hardy is an athletic pass catcher who is too fast for LB’s to cover and has the height and length to make plays over top of safeties.  He’s a fun player to watch.

9. GEORGE BRYAN, JR., N.C. STATE: With Owen Spencer and Jarvis Williams stretching teams deep, the middle of the field is opened up for the massive Bryan.  Bryan had a solid 2009 season with 40 receptions, 422 yards, and 6 TD’s.  Bryan is a tough matchup over the middle of the field and in the red zone.  He isn’t the best athlete in this group, but he’s productive, he’s strong, he blocks, and he is a tough matchup thanks to his impressive size.

10. KAVARIO MIDDLETON, JR., WASHINGTON: Middleton has not put up the numbers that his immense talent would dictate, but he is still young.  Going into his junior year expect Middleton to begin to emerge as the potentially dominant player he has the talent to become.  His numbers as a sophomore were solid, with 26 receptions, 257 yards, and 3 TD’s.  As Jake Locker develops as a passer, Middleton serves to benefit the most.  It was the middle of the field and short throws in crucial situations that Locker tended to struggle.  This is where Middleton is going to begin to make his living, as well as the red zone.  I’m predicting a big 2010 season for Middleton.

BEST OF THE REST
11. Ryan Griffin, 6’6, 240, Soph., UConn
12. Charlie Gantt, 6’5, 255, Sr., Michigan State
13. Ladarius Green, 6’6, 225, Jr., Louisiana-Lafayette
14. Drake Dunsmore, 6’3, 235, Jr., Northwestern
15. Tim Biere, 6’4, 260, Jr., Kansas
16. Kyle Efaw, 6’4, 242, Jr., Boise State
17. Chris Pantale, 6’6, 244, Soph., Boston College
18. Jeffery Anderson, 6’3, 255, Jr., UAB
19. Coby Fleener, 6’6, 248, Jr., Stanford
20. Ben Guidugli, 6’1, 240, Sr., Cincinnati
21. Anthony Miller, 6’3, 263, Jr., California
22. Cameron Graham, 6’4, 253, Sr., Louisville
23. Marcus Green, 6’1, 235, Jr., Mississippi State
24. Kevin Koger, 6’4, 251, Jr., Michigan
25. Lee Smith, 6’6, 267, Sr., Marshall

SLEEPERS
1. Allen Reisner, 6’3, 248, Sr., Iowa – Has split time in an offense that loves to TE, the job is all his now
2. Andrew Jones, 6’5, 245, Jr., Missouri – Expect a breakout year from the talented, but so far unproductive TE
3. Ryan Deehan, 6’5, 245, Jr., Colorado – Is going to burst onto the national scene after only 10 catches as a sophomore
4. DeAngelo Peterson, 6’4, 240, Jr., LSU – Athletic, TE friendly offense, will be a favorite for Jefferson, could emerge
5. Brandon Barden, 6’5, 250, Jr., Vanderbilt – Overlooked in a deep TE conference, but is a solid pass catcher

RISING TALENTS
1. Dwayne Allen, 6’4, 255, Soph., Clemson – Big, talented, primed for a monster year
2. Jake Stoneburner, 6’5, 245, Soph., Ohio State – Super fast for a TE, could be a breakout player in 2010
3. Brian Linthicum, 6’5, 245, Jr., Michigan State – Impressive as the backup in 2009, very good pass catcher
4. Dion Sims, 6’5, 268, Soph., Michigan State – Best talent of the MSU bunch, but still a bit raw
5. Willie Jefferson, 6’6, 220, Soph., Baylor – Excellent athlete, is going to emerge as one of Griffin’s favorite targets

TOP NEWCOMERS
1. Jordan Reed, 6’3, 240, R-Fr., Florida
2. Joseph Fauria, 6’7, 259, Soph., UCLA (Transfer/Notre Dame)
3. Xavier Grimble, 6’6, 245, Fr., USC
4. Brandon Williams, 6’4, 226, Jr., Oregon (JUCO)
5. Devin Mahina, 6’6, 225, Fr., BYU

It is amazing how talented the WR's are around the nation.  It was tough making this list, very tough.  There are guys I have ranked in the 20's who could easily emerge and be Top 10 type players.  This season really is loaded with super skill players.  This is going to be an exciting fall.

SUPERSTARS
1. Michael Floyd, 6’3, 220, Jr., Notre Dame
2. DeAndre Brown, 6’6, 231, Jr., Southern Miss
3. A.J. Green, 6’4, 207, Jr., Georgia
4. Greg Childs, 6’3, 217, Jr., Arkansas
5. Jonathan Baldwin, 6’5, 225, Jr., Pittsburgh
6. DeVier Posey, 6’3, 205, Jr., Ohio State
7. Ryan Broyles, 5’11, 178, Jr., Oklahoma
8. Julio Jones, 6’4, 215, Jr., Alabama
9. Vincent Brown, 6’0, 180, Sr., San Diego State
10. Mohamed Sanu, 6’2, 215, Soph., Rutgers

1. MICHAEL FLOYD, 6’3, 220, JR., NOTRE DAME: Everything is in place for Floyd.  He is playing in a pass happy offense, he has a talented supporting cast, his QB is young but talented, and he is healthy.  The question is whether he can stay healthy; if he does expect Floyd to have a monster season.  He finished the 2009 season with 44 catches, 795 yards, and 9 TD’s.  When you consider he only played 6.5 games those numbers are staggering.  Stretch  those numbers out to 12 games and you are looking at an 81 catch season for 1468 yards and 17 touchdowns.  Floyd has tremendous size, after the catch ability, good speed, and is arguably the best deep ball player in the country.  It will be interesting to see how he is used in Brian Kelly’s new offense.  I expect Floyd to get the ball in a variety of ways, using his size, speed, and strength to be the country’s most dominant receiver.

2. DEANDRE BROWN, 6’6, 231, JR., SOUTHERN MISS: Brown burst onto the scene as a freshman when he exploded for 1117 yards on 67 catches with 12 touchdowns.  A scary leg injury during their bowl game slowed him down during the 2009 season, but by the end of the season Brown was healthier and was dominating.  He’s freakishly big, he has good speed, he is fluid, and he cannot be covered downfield.  Two games against South Carolina and Kansas gives him a chance to destroy power conference defenses, which he will.  By the end of the season Brown will be one of the nation’s most productive WR’s and everyone will begin to realize just how dominant he is.  Getting Austin Davis back from injury gives him a talented QB to catch balls from.  There might not be a more impressive NFL prospect in the country, which is saying quite a bit.

3. A.J. GREEN, 6’4, 207, JR., GEORGIA: Like Floyd, Green has to stay healthy this fall, after missing three games as a sophomore.  If he does, Green will be the prime talent on a Georgia offense that is very talented.  Green and his mates should make the transition easy for redshirt freshman Aaron Murray.  Green has tremendous deep speed and runs good routes.  His length and speed make him very hard to cover, and Green is developing into an explosive all-around player.  If he can continue to be more of a threat after the catch and over the middle his game as a pass receiver will be complete.  The SEC is loaded with talented WR’s, and Green is the best.  He went for 963 yards and 8 TD’s as a freshman (56 catches) and 808 yards and 6 TD’s as a sophomore (53 catches).  Expect those numbers to be drastically improved with Green’s improved game and maturing physique.

4. GREG CHILDS, 6’3, 217, JR., ARKANSAS: Childs might not get the publicity of classmates Floyd, Green, Brown, Julio Jones, and DeVier Posey.  Childs has, however, been just as good.  Childs burst onto the national scene last fall with the arrival of Ryan Mallett.  Despite playing in an offense that likes to spread the ball around, Childs posted 48 catches, 897 yards, and 7 TD’s.  Having watched him I can attest he was open far more often than that, but his QB struggled with consistency.  If Mallett improves in this regards Childs will be the main beneficiary.  Childs is physically impressive, has excellent hands, attacks the middle of the field with reckless abandon, and if he gets a crease he is one.  Teams cannot gameplan to take Childs out of the game thanks to Jarius Wright, Joe Adams, and D.J. Williams.  This makes Childs very hard to stop.  Expect a huge season from the rising junior this fall, and his emergence as one of the game’s best.

5. JONATHAN BALDWIN, 6’5, 225, JR., PITTSBURGH: Baldwin showed flashes of his big play ability as a freshman, but as a sophomore he showed the entire country he deserves to be in the discussion as the best WR from the best WR recruiting class in recent history (my opinion).  Despite not having a big time QB to throw to him, Baldwin was impossible to stop.  He finished the 2009 season with 57 catches, 1111 yards, and 8 TD’s.  He reminds me a lot of Calvin Johnson when he was at Georgia Tech.  Baldwin has tremendous size, great leaping ability, and excellent speed for a big man.  You simply cannot cover him deep with one player.  The key for Baldwin is developing more of an “after the catch” ability and being able to work the middle of the field more consistently.  He has a new QB to work with and he lost most of the receiving help he had last fall.  If others emerge and Tino Sunseri is ready, Baldwin will not miss a beat, but this is a concern.

6. DEVIER POSEY, 6’3, 205, JR., OHIO STATE: His offense will likely not allow him to post the kind of numbers the other big time WR’s will put up, but few, if any, are as dominant as Posey.  By the end of the 2009 season Posey was as dangerous as any player in the country.  Posey used his speed, quickness, and route running ability to catch 60 passes for 828 yards and 8 TD’s.  He did all this in a running offense with a QB who was limited as a passer.  Posey is also a dangerous after the catch player, and with a year of continued growth physically and mentally Posey is poised for a monster junior season.  If he emerges it makes the other players around him better.  Terrelle Pryor is a big key for Posey; if Pryor develops more as a passer Posey could put up tremendous numbers and be in the discussion for the nation’s best.

7. RYAN BROYLES, 5’11, 178, JR., OKLAHOMA: I had some questions about Broyles early last fall.  He had some big games, but he was inconsistent.  Oklahoma began to become ravaged with injuries and I expected Broyles to fade; was I ever wrong.  Over the second half of the season Broyles was impossible to stop.  On the season he finished with 89 catches, 1120 yards, and a whopping 15 TD’s.  For a player only 5’11 that 15 TD’s is outstanding.  Broyles had huge games down the stretch, with an 11-121 performance against Kansas, 8-91-2 against Kansas State, 104 yards and 2 scores against Texas A&M, 7-117-1 against Texas Tech, 9-103 against Oklahoma State, and 13-156-3 against Stanford.  Broyles has good speed but he is super quick, fluid, and agile.  He’s developed as a route runner and when the ball is in his hands he is very, very hard to slow down.  The emergence of Landry Jones and a healthy DeMarco Murray should play huge dividends for him, as will the hopeful emergence of a supporting cast.

8. JULIO JONES, 6’4, 215, JR., ALABAMA: Jones was slowed by an ultra-conservative game plan and a variety of leg injuries, so his 43 catches, 596 yards, and 4 TD’s in 2009 were a bit of a disappointment.  This has many folks writing Jones off and taking him out of the discussion as the nation’s best WR; this is a mistake!  Let us not forget that Jones was a dominant player as a freshman, when he went for 58 receptions and 924 yards.  Jones has great size, strength, leaping ability, hands, and straight line speed.  He needs to gain some more flexibility, but when healthy he is hard to cover and hard to bring down.  Jones also needs to improve a bit as a deep ball threat.  If he makes these improvements he literally will be impossible to stop.  What I love about Jones is that he is a “money” player.  In 2009 Alabama simply did not throw much in big games, but when they needed a play, Jones made it.  He torched LSU for 102 yards and a score on only 4 catches.  As a freshman Jones had his biggest games against their best opponents, going for 5-124 against Florida, 5-94-1 against Georgia, 6-103 against Tennessee, and 7-128 against LSU.  A healthy Jones and a more experienced QB means a big year for Alabama’s offense.

9. VINCENT BROWN, 6’0, 180, SR., SAN DIEGO STATE: No one was more happy with the arrival of Head Coach Brady Hoke and Offensive Coordinator Al Borges than Brown.  Prior to an injury against Colorado State, Brown was destroying defenses.  In only six games Brown went for 45 receptions, 778 yards, and 6 TD’s.  He took off in Borges’ West Coast offense and is primed for a big, big year if he is healthy.  Health is the key for him, but if he is good to go he will benefit greatly from the emergence of Ryan Lindley, who I expect to have a big year.  Brown is an explosive player, route runner, and has very good ball skills.  He pasted UCLA for 139 yards on 5 catches, Idaho for 143 yards on 13 catches, and BYU for 147 yards on 8 catches.  If you are able to watch San Diego State, please do so, Brown is worth the price of admission, but he will not be alone this fall.

10. MOHAMED SANU, 6’2, 215, SOPH., RUTGERS: Get to know this young man’s name.  He is fun to watch.  As a freshman Sanu put up 639 receiving yards on 51 catches.  He also rushed for 346 yards and 5 TD’s in the “Wildcat” offense.  He did this as a true freshman with a true freshman throwing his the football.  Sanu is a year older, as is QB Tom Savage.  Sanu is an explosive player thanks to his size, agility, and speed.  He works all parts of the field, and as he develops as a downfield threat his game will be complete.  Sanu burst onto the scene with 10 catches and 101 yards in his first game against Cincinnati.  He also touched up West Virginia for 6 catches, 105 yards, a score, and 47 rushing yards.  He might have saved his best for last, going for 138 total yards and 3 TD’s against Central Florida in the St. Petersburg Bowl.  By the end of the 2010 season I expect Sanu and Savage to be one of the nation’s best pass-catching duo’s in the nation.

ELITES
11. James Cleveland, 6’1, 205, Sr., Houston
12. Darvin Adams, 6’3, 185, Jr., Auburn
13. Keith Smith, 6’2, 226, Sr., Purdue
14. James Rodgers, 5’7, 185, Sr., Oregon State
15. Jeff Fuller, 6’4, 215, Jr., Texas A&M
16. Leonard Hankerson, 6’3, 215, Sr., Miami (FL)
17. Armon Binns, 6’4, 200, Sr., Cincinnati
18. Nick Toon, 6’3, 212, Jr., Wisconsin
19. Jermaine Kearse, 6’2, 198, Jr., Washington
20. Austin Pettis, 6’3, 197, Sr., Boise State

Houston had three receivers go for 1000+ yards last fall.  None were as explosive and dangerous as senior (11) James Cleveland.  The 6’1, 205 senior had 104 catches, 1214 yards, and 14 TD’s during the 2009 season.  He did this despite missing two games with an injury.  Cleveland is far more than a product of a pass-happy system.  He’s an electric player who can make plays after the catch and beat people deep.  He went for 19 catches, 241 yards, and 3 scores in the Conference USA championship game.  (12) Darvin Adams is an under-looked but talented member of the Class of 2008.  Adams had a big sophomore season, going for 60 catches, 997 yards, and 10 scores.  Adams is a dangerous deep threat who is still developing other parts of his game.  As he does he becomes far more dangerous and explosive.  He torched Alabama’s talented secondary for 138 yards and a score on 4 catches.  Purdue senior (13) Keith Smith does not get much publicity, but he should.  Smith is a thick WR who has good agility and speed.  He simply needs to be more consistent to emerge as one of the nation’s elite.  Despite his problem with drops, Smith still posted 91 catches for 1100 yards and 6 scores in 2009.  His two biggest games came against Ohio State (12-125), Notre Dame (11-136-1), and Michigan State (15-152-1).  With Robert Marve on the scene I expect Smith to end his career with a big, big season.  He often gets overshadowed by his little brother, but Oregon State senior (14) James Rodgers is one of the more exciting players at this position.  Despite his diminutive frame, Rodgers finished the 2009 season with 91 catches for 1034 yards and 9 scores.  He also adds the threat of being a runner and excellent kick returner.  Rogers is fun to watch, and it amazes me the things he does at his size.  He has great speed and excellent agility, and when the ball is in his hands he is a threat to score every time.  If the new QB can step up early, Rodgers will have a big senior season.  (15) Jeff Fuller is another in the Class of 2008, and as a freshman put up solid numbers (50-630-9).  Big things were expected of Fuller in 2009, but an injury cost him four games.  Despite that Fuller still put up 568 yards and 7 scores on 41 catches.  Fuller’s two best games were his last two, when he went for 6-132-3 against Texas’ talented secondary and 7-102 against Georgia.  He looked healthy in those games, which shows just how explosive he is when healthy.  With one of the nation’s best QB’s and a talented cast of WR’s, Fuller is primed for a huge junior season.

No one ever questioned (16) Leonard Hankerson of Miami’s talent, just his hands and consistency.  After an off-season spent working out with Mark Duper, Hankerson stepped up with a big 2009 season that saw him go for 801 yards on 45 catches.  Hankerson is a big play threat but most improve his consistency in order to max out his ability.  If he can improve he could easily move up the list and have a huge senior season.  His supporting cast is very, very good.  Mardy Gilyard is now gone, but (17) Armon Binns is now ready to emerge as Cincinnati’s go-to guy.  Binns had 61 catches, 888 yards, and 11 TD’s as a junior as the No. 2 behind Gilyard.  He is now the guy, and with a tremendous supporting cast returning and arriving, teams will not be able to focus on taking Binns out of the game.  That should allow him to end his career on a big note.  Wisconsin is one of the “sleeper” teams this fall, and it revolves around my prediction their offense is going to emerge.  The key is being able to beat teams with the pass, and with (18) Nick Toon emerging as a big play guy they have the tools.  Toon has great size, is athletic, and has good hands.  He became more consistent as a sophomore, but now is primed to explode as a big play threat as well.  If he can develop an all-around game he could emerge as the Big 10’s best WR behind Posey.  If Toon has a big year it is reasonable to expect Wisconsin to win the Big 10.  Unlike past seasons, Jake Locker does not have to go it alone anymore.  This fall he will have one of the Pac 10’s best WR’s in junior (19) Jermaine Kearse.  Kearse got better and better last fall, finishing the season with 866 yards and 8 scores on 50 catches.  He’s a big play threat, a solid route runner, and becoming more dangerous after the catch.  He had huge games down the stretch against UCLA (7-114-2) and in the big win over California (7-147-1).  I expect Kearse to explode this fall as Locker develops as a passer.  The rushing attack will be better as well, as will be his supporting cast, so Kearse will have some help.  He will be dangerous.  He might not be their leading receiver, but (20) Austin Pettis was Boise State’s best receiver.  An injury cost him the season’s last two regular season games, but prior to that injury Pettis was having a huge season.  Pettis has very good size, is a solid all-around athlete, an excellent route runner, and big time “red zone” threat.  With the offense returning in-tact teams will not be able to key on Pettis, so if he is healthy expect his senior season to be a big one.  He could easily jump up this list with a big game against Virginia Tech.

BEST OF THE REST
21. Tandon Doss, 6’3, 197, Jr., Indiana – Long, skinny, big play threat
22. Alshon Jeffery, 6’3, 217, Soph., South Carolina – Huge, could jump way up this list
23. Titus Young, 5’11, 168, Sr., Boise State – Super quick, big play guy
24. Torrey Smith, 6’1, 200, Jr., Maryland – Big returner, if the QB plays well, he will do great
25. Eric Page, 5’10, 165, Soph., Toledo – Super exciting, watch him this fall, it is fun
26. Greg Salas, 6’2, 200, Sr., Hawai – Numbers will be great in pass-happy offense
27. Damaris Johnson, 5’8, 170, Jr., Tulsa – Super quickness, exciting little player after the catch
28. Dwayne Harris, 6’1, 205, Sr., East Carolina – Good athlete, does a lot of things with the ball
29. Jarrett Boykin, 6’2, 215, Jr., Virginia Tech – Big play threat, poised for a huge season
30. Greg Little, 6’3, 215, Sr., North Carolina – Athletic, thick, all-around player, still raw
31. Terrance Toliver, 6’5, 206, Sr., LSU – Good player, inconsistent, not as high on him as others
32. Tyron Carrier, 5’8, 162, Jr., Houston – Super quick and explosive, fun to watch
33. Donovan Varner, 5’9, 170, Jr., Duke – Short, quick, deep threat
34. Randall Cobb, 5’11, 188, Jr., Kentucky – Jack-of-all-trades, not explosive, but productive
35. Owen Spencer, 6’3, 185, Sr., N.C. State – Great big play weapon
36. Ryan Whalen, 6’2, 205, Sr., Stanford – Epitome of solid all-around player
37. Jarius Wright, 5’10, 180, Jr., Arkansas –Super talent, could easily jump way up this list
38. Detron Lewis, 6’0, 205, Sr., Texas Tech – Solid player in a pass-happy offense
39. Joe Adams, 5’11, 182, Jr., Arkansas – If he develops an all-around game is an elite player
40. Marvin Jones, 6’2, 190, Jr., California – Solid player, if QB emerges will have a big year
41. Marshall Williams, 6’1, 185, Sr., Wake Forest – QB issues lower him a bit, solid WR
42. Jerrel Jernigan, 5’9, 184, Sr., Troy – Little but explosive and quick
43. Derrell Johnson-Koulianos, 6’1, 200, Sr., Iowa – Solid, not consistent, needs to be better in the RZ
44. Alexander Torres, 6’2, 196, Sr., Texas Tech – Another solid, athletic player in a pass-happy system
45. Scotty McKnight, 5’11, 190, Sr., Colorado – Great at nothing, solid at everything
46. Derek Moye, 6’5, 195, Jr., Penn State – Very long, solid downfield player, QB issues will hurt
47. Jarvis Williams, 6’4, 205, Sr., N.C. State – Great RZ weapon, has all the tools
48. B.J. Cunningham, 6’2, 205, Jr., Michigan State – Talented but inconsistent
49. Niles Paul, 6’1, 215, Sr., Nebraska – Solid player but no big games, inconsistent
50. D.J. Woods, 6’1, 170, Jr., Cincinnati – Quick, prototype slot player, might lose touches

UP AND COMERS
1. Marvin McNutt, 6’4, 215, Jr., Iowa – 34-674-19.8-8
2. Jarmon Fortson, 6’3, 231, Jr., Florida State – 45-610-13.6-4
3. LaRon Byrd, 6’4, 215, Jr., Miami (FL) – 33-460-13.9-1
4. Kendall Wright, 5’11, 185, Jr., Baylor – 66-740-11.2-4 / 28-132-1
5. Chris Owusu, 6’2, 201, Jr., Stanford – 37-682-18.4-5 / 12-66-0
6. Darryl Freeney, 5’11, 191, Jr., East Carolina – 48-718-15.0-3
7. Danny Coale, 6’0, 206, Jr., Virginia Tech – 30-614-20.5-2
8. Keshawn Martin, 5’11, 185, Jr., Michigan State – 18-411-22.8-5 / 18-219-1
9. Connor Vernon, 6’0, 185, Soph., Duke – 55-746-13.6-3
10. Antavious Wilson, 6’0, 191, Soph., Marshall – 60-724-12.1-3

Marvin McNutt of Iowa has all the tools to be a great receiver.  He finished the 2009 season with 674 yards and 8 scores on only 34 catches.  He is still raw (came in as a QB), but he keeps getting better and better.  He has great size and athleticism.  Do not be surprised to see him emerge as one of the nation’s premier players.  Jarmon Fortson is a freakish athlete with great size and great hands.  Struggles with consistency, but his emergence makes FSU dangerous on offense.  They have a good QB, good OL, and a good RB they simply need a WR to step up.  LaRon Byrd is another long, athletic, and talented WR for the Hurricanes.  He is on the verge of exploding, but needs to refine his skills and become more consistent.  If Robert Griffin is healthy Kendall Wright of Baylor will have a big year.  He’s a quick player with good ball skills.  He gives Griffin a legit No. 1 weapon, despite being on the small side.  Chris Owusu is a dangerous down-field threat and an explosive returner.  He simply drops too many balls.  If he can be more consistent he will have a big year.  Darryl Freeney is an exciting player as well.  He is not a star player, but he is solid and a good No. 2 behind Harris.  Danny Coale is not a big time player, but he is a solid player and a good down-field threat.  He compliments Boykin and Dyrell Roberts very well.  Keshawn Martin is not an every-down receiver, but he is dangerous.  He is a good returner, good receiver, and dangerous runner.  He compliments the bigger WR’s at Michigan State quite nicely.  Connor Vernon is a great compliment to Vernon, and they give Duke the chance to have a real good offense this fall.  He’s a quick player and very tough.  Antavious Wilson is a solid player, and a young player, that gives Doc Holliday one of Conference USA’s best young talents.

SLEEPERS
Kris Adams, 6’3, 195, Sr., UTEP – Had a big 2008 season, expect him to rebound
Brandon Caleb, 6’1, 187, Sr., Oklahoma – OU needs a No. 2, if Caleb emerges he could be that guy
Charles Clay, 6’3, 230, Sr., Tulsa – Had a big 2008 season, huge player, good athlete, expect big things
Juron Criner, 6’4, 210, Jr., Arizona – Excellent athlete, size, and potential, could emerge as one of the nation’s best
Jerrell Jackson, 6’1, 190, Jr., Missouri – Solid athlete who could become Gabbert’s top target
Wes Kemp, 6’4, 225, Jr., Missouri – Great size and athleticism, raw, but if he emerges he will dominate this fall
Duval Kamara, 6’4, 220, Sr., Notre Dame – Size and talent is there, just hasn’t put it together, could in 2010
A.J. Love, 6’2, 202, Sr., South Florida – Athletic and raw, if he develops he will have a great year
Da’Jon McKnight, 6’3, 200, Jr., Minnesota – Limited PT in 2009, with a full year could emerge as a big time player
Dejuan Miller, 6’4, 224, Jr., Oklahoma – Talent is there, and OU needs a No. 2 to emerge
Aldrick Robinson, 5’10, 176, Jr., SMU – Should replace Sanders and have a huge year
Nelson Rosario, 6’5, 211, Jr., UCLA – Big, freaky good athlete, raw
Malcolm Williams, 6’3, 220, Jr., Texas – Has the talent and OU needs him to emerge, far too inconsistent
Johnathan Wilson, 6’3, 189, Sr., Kansas – KU loses top two WR’s and Wilson showed flashes
Jimmy Young, 6’1, 204, Sr., TCU – Good in 2008, inconsistent last year, primed for a big senior season

NEXT GENERATION
Jheranie Boyd, 6’2, 185, Soph., North Carolina – Super talent, not sure if he is ready yet, but when he is, watch out
Chris Givens, 6’1, 200, Soph., Wake Forest – Talented, ready to push Williams as the No. 1
Tyshon Goode, 6’1, 178, Soph., Kent State – Solid all around player, surprised as a frosh
Erik Highsmith, 6’3, 175, Soph., North Carolina – Long, athletic, good all-around young WR
Uzoma Nwachukwu, 6’1, 189, Soph., Texas A&M – Super quick and fast, had a great freshman year, great compliment to Fuller
Pat Patterson, 6’3, 215, Soph., Mississippi – All the talent in the world, if he gets his head on straight will dominate
Reuben Randle, 6’3, 201, Soph., LSU – See Patterson
Jaz Reynolds, 6’2, 181, Soph., Oklahoma – Athletic, needs seasoning, but has a lot of tools
Roy Roundtree, 6’0, 170, Soph., Michigan – If the QB’s play well he will have a real good season
Cruz Williams, 6’3, 195, Soph., Louisiana Tech – Tall, good athlete, La Tech is primed for a big offensive season

NEWCOMERS
Tony Clemons, 6’2, 215, Jr., Colorado – Michigan transfer is thick, athletic, huge boost for CU offense
Tim Molton, 6’2, 170, Soph., Louisiana Tech – LSU transfer should do well in the WAC
Ahmad Paige, 6’1, 180, Soph., Louisiana Tech – Tennessee transfer is thin, but a good athlete and potential route runner
Vidal Hazelton, 6’3, 210, Jr., Cincinnati – USC transfer should physically dominate the Big East if his attitude is right
Kenbrell Thompkins, 6’3, 200, Jr., Cincinnati – JUCO transfer, see Hazelton

Kyle Prater, 6’5, 205, Fr., USC – Could be USC’s best WR as a freshman
Andre DeBose, 5'11, 183, Fr., Florida - Super talent, if he is healthy will be a dynamic playmaker for UF
Mike Davis, 6’1, 185, Fr., Texas – UT needs someone to emerge, and Davis is a dynamic playmaker
Darius White, 6’2, 205, Fr., Texas – White is bigger but raw, his upside is HUGE, might have the most of all WR’s in this class
Da’Rick Rodgers, 6’3, 205, Fr., Tennessee – A physical talent that Tennessee does not currently have
Justin Hunter, 6’4, 195, Fr., Tennessee – See Rodgers, super athlete
Brandon Coleman, 6’6, 200, Fr., Rutgers – Long, deep threat, great compliment to Sanu
Tai-ler Jones, 6’0, 185, Fr., Notre Dame – Perfect slot play in ND’s offense, after the catch guy with excellent quickness
Ivan McCartney, 6'3, 175, Fr., West Virginia - WVU needs a young WR to step up, McCarthy is fast and has the tools, but he is raw.
Todd Thomas, 6’3, 215, Fr., Pittsburgh – Pitt needs a compliment to Baldwin, Thomas has the size and skill
Martavis Bryant, 6’4, 190, Fr., Clemson – Clemson needs someone to emerge, Bryant could give real good minutes as a frosh

THE ELITES
1. John Clay, 6’1, 248, Jr., Wisconsin
2. Ryan Williams, 5’10, 221, Soph., Virginia Tech
3. DeMarco Murray, 6’0, 214, Sr., Oklahoma
4. Dion Lewis, 5’8, 195, Soph., Pittsburgh
5. Jacquizz Rodgers, 5’7, 188, Jr., Oregon State
6. Noel Devine, 5’8, 180, Sr., West Virginia
7. Mark Ingram, 5’10, 215, Junior, Alabama

He will not be the most attractive NFL prospect, but there might not be a more dominant back during the 2010 season than Wisconsin senior (1) John Clay.  Word out of Madison is that Clay has found a new dedication when it comes to strength and conditioning; after missing the spring this had better be true.  If it is, Clay is going to have a monster season.  The Badgers return one of the top OL’s in the nation, a talented WR corps, and a senior QB poised for a productive season.  Wisconsin doesn’t play Penn State, and a stretch that sees them play at Michigan State, home against Ohio State, and at Iowa will be the big test for Clay and the Badger offense.  If he has a good offseason and stays healthy Clay will certainly build on the 1517 rushing yards and 18 rushing touchdowns he produced in 2009.

Virginia Tech sophomore (2) Ryan Williams might see a slippage in numbers this fall.  He rushed for 1655 yards and scored 22 combined touchdowns as a redshirt freshman.  With the return of Darren Evans, I do not expect the Hokie coaches depend so heavily on Williams this fall.  This will likely decrease his raw numbers, but will make him a more explosive and dangerous player.  Considering he was one of the nation’s top backs as a freshman, this means he could be the nation’s most dangerous player as a sophomore.  He is fast, has excellent agility, and has proven me wrong with his ability to be a bell cow for his football team.  Williams will have the opportunity in week one against Boise State to begin building his Heisman credentials.  Back-to-back road games against North Carolina and Miami should tell us just how dominant Virginia Tech’s run game will be.  My number three back is a bit of a surprise and it was difficult for me to make this decision.

Oklahoma senior (3) DeMarco Murray has never actually produced to the level that would warrant this kind of ranking.  He split carries with Chris Brown as a sophomore when he rushed for 1002 yards, had 395 receiving yards, and 18 combined TD’s as Oklahoma played for the National Championship.  Last fall he struggled while recovering from the knee injury that kept him out of the championship game against Florida, but he still manage 1227 yards of offense and 12 touchdowns.  Oklahoma has to replace Trent Williams at LT, but return Landry Jones, a talented WR unit, and a young but talented offensive line.  If Oklahoma makes a run for the Big 12 title Murray will have had a big season.

(4) Dion Lewis of Pittsburgh is the leading returning rusher in the nation after a monster freshman year (1799 rushing yards, 18 total touchdowns).  Pittsburgh returns one of the nation’s top receivers, several linemen, and have a young but potentially solid QB in Tino Sunseri.  I have two fears with Lewis this fall.  I do not doubt he is a legit talent.  I am concerned that Pittsburgh relies on him a bit too heavily for a young player, and also another offensive player has to step up to go along with Lewis and Baldwin.  If Pittsburgh can keep Lewis fresh and find one more offensive weapon Lewis will repeat his dominance from last fall.

(5) Jacquizz Rodgers of Oregon State is not tall enough (5’7), thick enough (188), or even fast enough to be a dominant college running back.  I did not expect Rodgers to repeat his freshman season because of these issues, yet Rodgers was even better as a sophomore, when he rushed for 1440 yards, caught 78 passes for 522 yards, and accounted for 23 touchdowns as a sophomore.  Rodgers uses excellent agility, vision, balance, and toughness to continue to be one of the nation’s premier players.  Oregon State plays a real tough schedule (TCU, Boise State), and if Rodgers can become more consistent and produce against their tough schedule, he will certain garner significant Heisman mention.  One of the more exciting players in the country is West Virginia senior

(6) Noel Devine, who rushed for 1465 yards and 13 touchdowns as a junior.  Devine wore down as the season wore on, but he still remained a productive and exciting football player.  West Virginia has to be careful not to overwork him, and find ways to get him in space more; doing so will allow Devine to be stronger late in the year and should allow him to dominate even more.  A tough road game against LSU will give Devine the national spotlight style game to really grab the attention of those who vote for trophies late in the season.  It is easy to dismiss

(7) Mark Ingram of Alabama as a legitimate big time football player.  Ingram ran behind one of the nation’s best lines and played on a team with one of the nation’s best defenses.  Make no mistake, Ingram is a darn good football player, although I still say Toby Gerhardt should have won the Heisman Trophy in 2009.  Ingram is a tough, hard-nosed, between-the-tackles runner who has good vision and the speed to rip off big runs if given a crease.  The emergence of Trent Richardson might take away a few carries, but expect Ingram to still be the main force for what should be a more explosive Alabama offense in 2010.

THE BEST
8. Daniel Thomas, 6’2, 228, Sr., Kansas State
9. LaMichael James, 5’9, 180, Soph., Oregon
10. Shane Vereen, 5’10, 199, Jr., California
11. Donald Buckram, 5’10, 195, Sr., UTEP
12. Christine Michael, 5’11, 206, Soph., Texas A&M
13. Allen Bradford, 5’11, 235, Sr., USC
14. Montel Harris, 5’10, 200, Jr., Boston College
15. Evan Royster, 6’1, 213, Sr., Penn State
16. Jermaine Thomas, 5’11, 190, Jr., Florida State
17. Kendall Hunter, 5’8, 197, Sr., Oklahoma State

After two seasons in junior college (8) Daniel Thomas burst onto the scene for Kansas State legend Bill Snyder.  In his first year for the Wildcats Thomas went for 1265 rushing yards, 257 receiving yards, and 11 touchdowns.  The Wildcats have some holes to fill, but if the defense can keep games close Thomas gives them an opportunity to emerge as a bowl team this fall.  Thomas is a big, physical, one-cut type runner who should be even more effective this fall.  Oregon sophomore

(9) LaMichael James is the opposite of Thomas.  James is a small, shifty, speed back who went for 1546 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns as a freshman.  James could have some trouble in 2010, so he might not stand at this position.  The Oregon offense suffered a huge loss when Jeremiah Masoli was suspended for the year.  If Derron Thomas emerges the QB position will be okay, but if not teams will be able to focus more on shutting James down.  He also has to deal with his own issues, as he will not be playing in week one against New Mexico because of a suspension.  If his head is on straight and a QB emerges James will have a monster sophomore season.  After Jahvid Best went down the California rushing attack did not miss a beat.

Junior (10) Shane Vereen filled in quite nicely for Best and rushed for 952 yards, 12 TD’s, and added 244 receiving yards despite not being a starter for the last four games of the season. In those four games Vereen went for 566 yards and 6 touchdowns against Arizona, Stanford, Washington, and Utah.  The offense returns almost entirely intact, and the Bears should be hungry after a disappointing 2009 season.  Expect Vereen, if he stays healthy, to put up monster numbers this fall.

(11) Donald Buckram came into the 2009 season with only 488 career rushing yards and only three touchdowns.  So it is safe to say that no one expected his 1594 rushing yards, his 453 receiving yards, and 21 total touchdowns last fall.  Buckram rushed for 262 yards and 4 TD’s against Houston and 241 yards (an additional 66 receiving yards) and two scores against SMU, both bowl teams last fall.  Buckram is quick, has excellent vision, and can make defenders miss in open space.  He is an exciting player, and if UTEP can win a few more games this fall, he will begin to get the notice he deserves.

Putting Texas A&M sophomore (12) Christine Michael in this position is a projection pick.  Michael showed flashes of brilliance as a freshman rushing for 844 yards and 10 scores while sharing carries with another talented back, Cyrus Gray.  Michael is a shifty and exciting player that should garner even more touches this fall.  The key for Michael is whether the Aggies can stay in more games.  They suffered several blowout losses last fall, and if the defense can keep them in more games, Michael will get more carries and more chances to show just how talented he is.

I have never understood why USC senior (13) Allen Bradford did not get more carries when Pete Carroll was operating the sidelines for the Trojans.  When given opportunities Bradford has been impressive, rushing for 688 yards  and 8 TD’s in limited duty.  Lane Kiffin likes to run more power football, as we saw with Tennessee last year and when LenDale White was on campus; expect to see Dillon Baxter get carries, but Bradford should emerge as the workhorse.  USC returns some talented OL and sophomore QB Matt Barkley.  Their WR unit is young and inexperienced so the run game will be crucial early in the season.  That should allow Bradford to emerge as one of the nation’s better running backs.

Production is certainly not a problem for Boston College junior (14) Montel Harris.  After finishing his sophomore season with 1457 rushing yards and 15 total touchdowns, Harris is ready to become an even bigger factor for the Eagles in 2010.  The Eagles return a more experienced QB and a veteran offensive line.  Harris was inconsistent as a sophomore, which saw him have monster games against Florida State (25-179-2), N.C. State (27-264-5), North Carolina (23-132-0), Virginia (38-151-0), and Maryland (41-142-0).  The problem, however, was that he had too many games where he struggled; examples are against Clemson (12-13-0), Wake Forest (25-76-0), Virginia Tech (11-43-0), and even Notre Dame’s poor rushing defense (22-38-1).  If he can be more consistent this fall he will climb way up this list.

Another player with a big reputation, a lot of talent, some big games under his belt, but a history of inconsistency is Penn State senior (15) Evan Royster.  Royster has battled injuries and inconsistency his entire career.  Injuries and a relatively new OL meant decreased numbers for Royster, who was down to 1169 rushing yards (5.7 average) and only 6 TD’s after going for 1236 yards (6.5 average) and 12 TD’s as a sophomore.  The OL returns some talent and the WR unit returns intact, but an issue at QB could allow teams to focus more of their energies on stopping Royster.  This should limit his ability to dominate this fall.  If he puts up big numbers this fall, including against their better opponents, he will deserve to be way up on this list.

During the first seven games of the season the Florida State offense struggled to find an identity.  At times they became too pass-oriented and they spent too much time rotating their running backs.  During the N.C. State game the Seminole offense decided to give junior (16) Jermaine Thomas the opportunity to become the primary back for the Noles.  Thomas responded with 640 yards and 7 TD’s in the final six games, including 121 yards and 2 scores in the Gator Bowl win over West Virginia.  The Seminoles return one of the nation’s premier QB’s and all five starting OL.  If the FSU coaches continue to feature Thomas he will do what he always does when given that opportunity…he will produce.

Oklahoma State senior (17) Kendall Hunter is a tough player to evaluate this season.  As a sophomore the super quick standout rushed for 1555 yards and 16 TD’s, which included 161 yards against Texas and 210 yards against Houston.  An injury plagued junior season limited Hunter to a mere 382 yards and 1 score.  Which Hunter will we see in 2010?  Hunter will not be surrounded by the supporting cast he was in 2008, and the Sooners have a new play caller whose history does not shy away from the run, but does not focus on it the way the Cowboy coaches have in the past few seasons.

BEST OF THE REST
18. Chris Polk, 5’11, 210, Soph., Washington
19. Anthony Allen, 6’0, 239, Sr., Georgia Tech
20. Trent Richardson, 5’11, 220, Sophomore, Alabama
21. Jordan Todman, 5’9, 190, Jr., UConn
22. Nic Grigsby, 5’10, 190, Sr., Arizona
23. Armando Allen, 5’10, 201, Sr., Notre Dame
24. MiQuale Lewis, 5’6, 201, Sr., Ball State
25. Robert Turbin, 5’10, 215, Jr., Utah State

Over the second half of the 2009 season Washington sophomore (18) Chris Polk was one of the best running backs in the Pac 10.  Polk used his solid quickness and toughness to pound out 1113 rushing yards, with 576 yards coming in the last five games of the season.  Washington returns a lot of talent on offense, and a tough early schedule will let us know how good Polk is going to be in 2010.  The better he is the less pressure there is going to be on Jake Locker, which could make Washington a dangerous offense and send the Huskies bowling.

Do not be surprised if Georgia Tech senior (19) Anthony Allen makes Georgia Tech even more affective from the fullback position.  Jonathan Dwyer was out of shape and disappointing during his junior season.  Allen rushed for 618 yards at an impressive 9.7 yards per carry clip.  Allen is a thickly built player with better quickness and speed than Dwyer.  With Josh Nesbitt, Roddy Jones and Embry Peeples returning Allen will not be alone.  He is poised for a monster senior season.

If it were not for the presence of Heisman Trophy winner Mark Ingram, (20)Trent Richardson would likely be considered one of the nation’s premier returning running backs.  Even as a backup to Ingram, Richardson is poised for a big sophomore season.  Alabama returns a solid OL, Greg McElroy returns or his second year as a starter, the WR unit returns healthy and intact, and Richardson will likely get even more carries.  His numbers won’t compare to others on this list, but when he does touch the ball he will be as dangerous as any back in the country.

(21) Jordan Todman was one of two 1000-yard rushers for UConn last fall (Andre Dixon), but he is the only one returning in 2010.  Todman became the primary ball carrier over the second half of the season and it resulted in a strong, strong finish.  Todman’s 2009 numbers are solid at 1188 yards rushing and 14 TD’s, but over the last four games of the regular season Todman was dominant.  UConn loses Dixon and WR Marcus Easley, but will not be without enough talent to become a far more productive offense this fall.  One could argue the biggest key to a successful season by Todman is the play of former Notre Dame QB Zach Frazier.

As a sophomore Arizona running back (22) Nic Grigsby looked poised to emerge as one of the nation’s top backs.  Grigsby finished the 2008 season with 1153 rushing yards (5.4 average) and 13 rushing TD’s.  Grigsby began the 2009 season with 400 rushing yards in Arizona’s first three games.  Injuries slowed him down the rest of the season, but he is healthy and poised for a big senior season.  Arizona should have a strong passing attack this fall to take some of the pressure off Grigsby, which should give him some big run lanes this fall.

Early in the 2009 season Notre Dame senior (23) Armando Allen seemed to be the verge of a big junior season.  The Irish were featuring in their offense and Allen responded with 326 yards in the first three games (5.5 average) and 3 rushing TD’s.  An injury slowed Allen down and he only carried the ball more than 20 times in two games the rest of the fall.  When Allen slowed down, so did the Notre Dame offense.  With a young QB this fall expect to see Irish coach Brian Kelly lean heavily on Allen in the early going.  Unlike last season Allen will be given more perimeter runs, off tackle runs, and will be able to run in space.  This should limit the hits he takes and keep him fresh.

In 2008 Ball State senior (24) MiQuale Lewis was an absolute monster.  The short but stout rusher went for 1736 yards and 22 TD’s as Ball State ripped off 12 straight wins to start the season.  Head Coach Brady Hoke left for San Diego State and the Cardinal offense struggled, with Lewis only rushing for only 871 yards and 5 scores.  They return most of their offense, and the offense is now in year two of Coach Stan Parrish’s system.  If Lewis is healthy and the rest of the offense can give him support, he should return close to his 2008 form.

Many have not heard of Utah State senior (25) Robert Turbin, but if you get the chance this fall watch him.  Turbin is a thickly built rusher who uses his thick lower body, balance, and breakaway speed to put up real big numbers.  Utah State returns a lot of talent on offense, which will be the unit that will need to carry this team.  Turbin finished the 2009 season with 1296 rushing yards (6.3 average), 418 receiving yards, and 18 total touchdowns.  If he can carry Utah State to more wins and a bowl game he will begin to get the attention his talent and production deserves.esiam

THE REST
Victor Anderson, 5’10, 190, Jr., Louisville
Jeremy Avery, 5’9, 179, Sr., Boise State
Baron Batch, 5’11, 205, Sr., Texas Tech
Lance Dunbar, 5’9, 202, Jr., North Texas
Frank Goodin, 5’9, 211, Sr., Louisiana-Monroe
Brynn Harvey, 6’1, 207, Jr., UCF
Roy Helu., 6’0, 220, Sr., Nebraska
Mikel LeShoure, 6’0, 230, Jr., Illinois
Alfred Morris, 5’11, 222, Jr., Florida Atlantic
Isaiah Pead, 5’11, 194, Jr., Cincinnati
Da’Rel Scott, 5’11, 200, Sr., Maryland
Chad Spann, 5’9, 198, Sr., Northern Illinoi
Vai Taua, 5’10, 220, Sr., Nevada
Derrick Washington, 6’0, 225, Sr., Missouri
Eddie Wide, 5’10, 195, Sr., Utah

SLEEPERS
Bryce Beall, 5’11, 209, Jr., Houston
Brandon Bolden, 5’11, 220, Jr., Mississippi
Delone Carter, 5’10, 215, Sr., Syracuse
Jeffery Demps, 5’8, 184, Jr., Florida
Washaun Ealey, 5’11, 205, Soph., Georgia
Bernard Pierce, 6’0, 218, Soph., Temple
Alexander Robinson, 5’9, 186, Sr., Iowa State

UP AND COMERS
Stepfan Taylor, 5’11, 213, Soph., Stanford: Expect a big year as he looks to replace Toby Gerhardt behind a talented OL.  He will do enough in the run game to keep teams honest as Andrew Luck goes for a big year.  Taylor is a talented player in his own right, going for 303 yards (5.4 average) as a freshman.

Andre Ellington, 5’10, 180, Soph., Clemson: While serving as C.J. Spiller’s primary backup the super-quick Ellington went for 495 yards (7.2 average) during his freshman year.  Along with Jamie Harper the Clemson rushing attack will not miss a beat.

Damien Berry, 5’11, 217, Sr., Miami: (93-616-6.6-8) Berry is an overlooked power runner who looks to benefit from Graig Cooper’s bowl game injury.  Berry went for a quiet 616 yards (6.6 average) and 8 TD’s as a junior.  Could blow up as a senior if Cooper remains out.

Mario Fannin, 5’11, 227, Sr., Auburn: (34-285-8.4-0 / 42-413-9.8-3) If Fannin emerges as the primary back this fall he will have a big season.  Auburn returns an excellent OL, two real talented WR’s, and welcomes the arrival of JUCO standout QB Cameron Newton.  Fannin averaged 8.4 yards per carry as Ben Tate’s backup.

Onterio McCalebb, 5’10, 175, Soph., Auburn: McCalebb is a change of pace back, and a darn good one.  He went for 565 yards and 4 TD’s as a freshman.  See above as to why he will be good.

Darius Willis, 6’0, 225, Soph., Indiana: Indiana will be much better this fall, and Evans is a prime reason for that.  He returns with a talented QB (Ben Chappell) and one of the Big 10’s best WR’s (Tandon Doss).  Willis should easily match and surpass his freshman numbers of 607 yards and 6 scores in only nine games.

Robbie Rouse, 5’7, 185, Soph., Fresno State: If Rouse can overcome his slight stature to carry the load he will have a real big sophomore season.  He went for 479 yards (5.8 average) as a freshman backing up 1^st Round draft pick Ryan Matthews.

Tauren Poole, 5’11, 213, Jr., Tennessee: Poole is an old school UT back who uses power and vision to make plays.  Toole was an underrated HS player and if given the opportunity this fall could become a solid player for the Vols.  The lack of a QB and an OL that loses a lot of talent will limit his production.

Matthew Tucker, 6’1, 210, Soph., TCU: Split carries as a freshman but still went for 676 yards (6.4 average) and 8 TD’s as a freshman.  Will still split carries, but with one less back.  Could emerge as one of the top young backs in the country.

Broderick Green, 6’2, 248, Jr., Arkansas: Green had a rough first year in Arkansas on and off the field.  His numbers were not impressive (442 yards, 4.2 average) but he did go for 11 TD’s.  If Arkansas wants to compete for an SEC West crown they will have to run the ball better, and Green could be the workhorse for the Razorbacks as they seek to accomplish this goal.  If he plays well their offense will be one of the nation’s best.

Larry Caper, 5’11, 220, Soph., Michigan State; Edwin Baker, 5’9, 189, Soph., Michigan State: The freshman combination went for 895 yards and 7 scores in 2009.  Now they are a year older and should combine for one of the better 1-2 duos in the Midwest.  An inexperienced OL is the one thing that could slow them down.

BACK FROM INJURY
Darren Evans, 6’0, 223, Soph., Virginia Tech: Evans injury seemed to be a big loss for the Hokies last fall, which was until Ryan Williams emerged with a monster freshman season.  Williams broke Evans’ freshman rushing record of 1265 yards (11 scores).  Evans should bring some power to Williams speed, and if used properly he and Williams will become the nation’s best 1-2 punch, including the duo in Tuscaloosa.

Jewel Hampton, 5’9, 210, Soph., Iowa: Jewel Hampton was poised to take over in 2009 for Doak Walker winner Shaun Green before an injury cost him his sophomore season.  He was poised to fill that role again this fall but an off-season arrest has again clouded his future.  If he returns in good graces, healthy, and with some maturity he could become a solid player for the Hawkeyes this fall.

James Montgomery, 5’10, 199, Senior, Washington State: Montgomery got off to a good start early in the 2009 season before injuries destroyed his season.  If he is healthy he could provide the Cougars the kind of bell cow to help them keep opposing defenses off the field.  Washington State will still be pretty bad.

TOP ROOKIES
Michael Ford, 5’10, 207, Fr., LSU: The redshirt freshman is extremely talented.  It would come as no surprise to see him emerge quickly as the Tigers go-to back and put up big numbers as a redshirt freshman.

Marcus Lattimore, 5’11, 215, Fr., South Carolina: Lattimore was arguably the top back in the nation as a high school senior last fall.  He has the size, toughness, speed, and vision to win the starting job as a freshman.  USC has struggled running the football, which has really slowed down their offense.  If he emerges, he gives them the dimension they need as they seek to take the next step in becoming a dynamic offense.

Darryl Fields, 6’2, 197, Fr., SMU: Often overlooked in June Jones offense is his desire to get a lot of touches for his primary running back.  If Fields earns the job this fall he will have a big freshman season in the run game and catching the football.

Malcolm Jones, 6’1, 210, Fr., UCLA: Jordon James gets a lot of the publicity, and for good reason, but it is Jones who has the size and skills to emerge as a full-time back as a freshman.  UCLA has struggled in the run game the last few seasons and Jones brings the ability to change that immediately.

Vick Ballard, 5’11, 215, Jr., Mississippi State: The JUCO transfer is going to be counted on heavily this fall.  The Bulldogs want to run the football and must replace Anthony Dixon, who was great in 2009.  If Ballard is up to the task MSU has a chance to be real good on offense in 2010.

TOP TRANSFERS
Raymond Carter, 6’0, 212, Jr., Colorado State: The UCLA transfer has the size and big play ability to succeed in the Mountain West conference.  He is not super explosive, but is dynamic enough to make big plays.  If he can be consistent, the Rams should be able to get their offense turned around.

Sam McGuffie, 6’0, 200, Soph., Rice: The Michigan transfer is one of those “love-em or hate-em” type of athletes; personally, I love em.  McGuffie is an electric rusher with big time speed and surprising toughness for his size; do not buy the 6’0, 200 pound listing.  McGuffie should tear up Conference USA along with Miami (FL) transfer Taylor Cook at QB.

Lennon Creer, 6’1, 205, Jr., Louisiana Tech: Creer was a disappointment at Tennessee, but gets a second chance at Louisiana Tech.  I am not sure what kind of offense La Tech will be running in 2010, but whatever it is they have a solid running back to build around.

This is my projection of who the best QB's will be this season.  This is not a "Who will be the best NFL QB"; rather, it's who will have the best seasons.  It's broken down into categories.  Underneath each ranking category is a breakdown the players mentioned.  The players names are bolded when they are talked about to make it easier to find different players if you want to skim.

BEST OF THE BEST
1. Case Keenum, Sr., Houston
2. Jerrod Johnson, Sr., Texas A&M
3. Jake Locker, Sr., Washington
4. Kellen Moore, Jr., Boise State
5. Christian Ponder, Sr., Florida State
6. Blaine Gilbert, Jr., Missouri
7. Ryan Mallett, Jr., Arkansas
8. Andrew Luck, Soph., Stanford
9. Robert Griffin, Jr., Baylor
10. Landry Jones, Soph., Oklahoma
11. Dwight Dasher, Sr., Middle Tennessee State
12. Jacory Harris, Jr., Miami (FL)
13. Nick Foles, Jr., Arizona
14. Ricky Dobbs, Sr., Navy
15. Terrelle Pryor, Jr., Ohio State

CASE KEENUM, SR., HOUSTON: Barring an injury Case Keenum will end his senior season as college football’s all-time leading passer after passing for 5671 yards and 44 touchdowns as a junior.  The Houston senior is not like the system driven Texas Tech QB’s, this kid has a ton of talent.  Keenum is an exciting gunslinger who can make al the throws, has a ton of confidence, and can make plays with his legs.  The Cougars return all of their top weapons this fall and Keenum is primed for another monster season.  For the critics who point to his schedule as a knock on him I have this to say: 32-46 for 366 yards, 38-58 for 435 yards, 39-52 for 434 yards, 10 combined touchdowns.  Those are the numbers Keenum put up against Oklahoma State, Texas Tech, and Mississippi State….all wins.  If Houston’s defense can slow teams down a bit this fall, Keenum has three prime games (UCLA, Mississippi State, Texas Tech) that will allow him to show he is truly the nation’s top quarterback, regardless of the conference he plays in.

JERROD JOHNSON, SR., TEXAS A&M: Johnson might be the most underrated and under-appreciated QB’s in the game.  He finished his junior season with 3579 passing yards, 506 rushing yards, and 38 combined touchdowns.  He did this with his best receiver (Jeff Fuller) missing time with injury.  The TAMU OL has to be rebuilt a bit, but they return a ton of weapons, along with a healthy Fuller.  Johnson has a big arm, can make all the throws, makes good decisions, and can rip teams with his legs.  He shredded a talented Texas defense in their season finale and was quite impressive in TAMU’s blowout loss to Georgia.  His defense will need to improve to give him a chance to win enough games to impress Heisman voters.  If he is able to improve his consistency and accuracy, he will have a dominant senior season.

JAKE LOCKER, SR., WASHINGTON: If I was listing the top NFL prospects at QB Locker would be number one on my list.  Locker is an ultra-talented player who is getting better and better.  What was more impressive than his 2800 passing yards, 388 rushing yards, and 28 combined touchdowns was the fact he lead Washington to a 5-7 record after going 0-12 the previous season.  Those five wins included a win over USC, Idaho, Arizona, and California (four bowl teams).  Locker also had Washington within minutes of beating both LSU and Notre Dame.  The 6’3 standout has a huge arm, a good release, and is a super athlete.  He took well to Steve Sarkisian’s offense and I expect him to explode in year two.  I also expect Sarkisian to use Locker’s legs a bit more this fall.  The Huskies return a lot of weapons on offense, and if the defense can play well the Huskies could be a bowl team.  The Huskies have a brutal schedule, and if Locker is able to lead them through it and into a bowl game he should be in New York at the end of the season.

KELLEN MOORE, JR., BOISE STATE: Moore is not the prettiest QB, nor is he the most physically imposing at just 6’0 tall.  But Moore is a talented southpaw who is a combined 26-1 as a starter.  Moore and the Broncos avenged the only loss during that period by beating TCU in the Fiesta Bowl to cap a 14-0 season.  Moore’s 39 TD to 3 INT ratio is outstanding.  Moore has a solid arm, a quick release, and is workman-like in his approach.  He did not have any monster games in 2009, but each week he made all the throws he needed to make and by the end of the year he had put up 3536 passing yards and 14 wins.  What was lacking in Moore’s game in 2009 was the big play, and the type of aggression downfield against the better opponents.  Moore obviously got the job done, having gone 14-0, but against Virginia Tech and Oregon State he will need to push the ball downfield a bit more this fall.

CHRISTIAN PONDER, SR., FLORIDA STATE: For the past few seasons the Florida State offense was mired in mediocrity.  That changed in 2009 thanks to the outstanding play of Christian Ponder.  Prior to getting injured and missing the last four games of the season, Ponder was as productive as any QB in the country, throwing for 2717 yards in only 9 games.  He absolutely shredded Boston College, Georgia Tech, and North Carolina in consecutive weeks; those are three good defenses.  Ponder also impressed with his ability to bring his team back from big deficits.  The Noles return all five linemen, a talented RB (Jermaine Thomas), and enough weapons to allow Ponder to pick up where he left off in 2009.  Ponder won’t win any beauty contests with his impressive size or big time arm, but he has a great release, impressive accuracy, and a knack for making big plays.  If given room he can also rip off runs and beat teams with his legs.  In week two the Noles travel to Norman, Oklahoma for a monster game.  If Ponder can put up big numbers and lead the Noles to a win (or close loss) expect to see him gain a lot of attention with Heisman voters.

BLAINE GABBERT, JR., MISSOURI: Few QB’s in the country possess Gabbert’s combination of size, athleticism, and arm strength.  Gabbert had huge shoes to fill by replacing all-time Missouri great Chase Daniel, and he had to do it without Jeremy Maclin.  In his first season as a starter Gabbert was a bit up and down, with big games against Illinois, Nevada, and Oklahoma State and struggles against Nebraska, Texas, and Colorado.  But by the end of the season Gabbert was putting up some impressive numbers and was playing as well as any QB in the Big 12 who was not named Colt McCoy, ending the season throwing for 3593 yards and 24 TD’s.   Gabbert also let loose with his legs, something I expect to see more of in 2010.  Expect Gabbert, who has four returning starters and some good weapons returning, to get off to a hot start.  If some of the new starters at WR can step up, Gabbert will emerge as the Big 12’s best signal caller and will put up some monster numbers.

RYAN MALLETT, JR., ARKANSAS: I was not as impressed with Mallett’s 2009 seasons as many others appear to have been.  His 3627 passing yards and 30-8 TD/INT ratio is impressive, but having watched several Arkansas games I saw Mallett miss more big plays than he made against the better teams.  Arkansas outplayed Florida, but several missed throws against Florida prevented the Razorbacks from pulling off the upset in Gainesville.  Mallett has a monster arm and has a great frame for the QB position, but he must improve his pocket mobility and accuracy.  He will need to learn to throw with a bit more touch at times and improve his release point.  What is working in Mallett’s favor is that he is coached by one of the nation’s best offensive minds and QB tutors in Bobby Petrino.  Mallett is also throwing to one of the nation’s best WR units in Greg Childs, Jarius Wright, Joe Adams, and TE D.J. Williams.  If Mallett makes the necessary improvements he could easily jump to the top of this list and will lead the Razorbacks to a lot of victories this fall.

ANDREW LUCK, SOPH., STANFORD: With teams focusing on Heisman runner-up Toby Gerhardt, Luck was asked to simply manage the offense, run the play-action pass, and not make big mistakes.  Luck did that and then some, throwing for 2575 yards despite missing the Sun Bowl against Oklahoma.  Luck was tremendous working the play-action pass thanks to his big arm, but he surprised with his ability to make plays with his legs, rushing for 354 yards and 2 more scores.  Despite losing Gerhardt, the cupboard is hardly bare.  Stepfan Taylor, Tyler Gaffney, and incoming freshman Anthony Wilkerson should be able to churn out solid yards behind four returning starters along the line.  This should prevent teams from focusing on Luck, who also is benefitted by the return of big play threat Chris Owusu, steady Ryan Whalen, talented redshirt freshmen (Jerami Roberts, Jamal-Rashad Patterson), and a stable of pass-catching tight ends.  The Cardinal face a tough schedule in 2010 and Luck is still just a sophomore, so he will have some ups and downs, but by the end of the season expect to see Luck playing as well as any QB in the country.

ROBERT GRIFFIN, JR., BAYLOR: If Griffin were not coming off a torn ACL and playing for Baylor he would be in my top five, he’s that good.  As a freshman, Griffin completed 59.9% of his passes in throwing for 2091 yards.  He also had a 15-3 TD to INT ratio.  Griffin used his tremendous speed, agility, and vision to rush for 846 yards (4.9 average) and 13 TD’s.  He put up 102 yards and 2 scores on the ground against Oklahoma, he rushed for 121 yards against Nebraska, he rushed for 101 yards against Texas, and he went for 99 yards and 2 scores on the ground in a near-upset of Texas Tech.  Griffin is not just a runner; he has a big arm, can make every throw on the field, and while still a bit raw as a passer has shown continual improvement.  He threw for 283 yards on 26-35 passing as Baylor nearly knocked off the Chase Daniel led Missouri Tigers.  He threw for 241 yards and 2 scores in upsetting Texas A&M (41-21) and went 21-24 with 278 yards and 2 scores as Baylor crushed Iowa State at home.  The kid can flat out play.  My two biggest concerns revolve around his health (recovering from a torn ACL) and his supporting cast.  Someone other than Kendall Wright must emerge at the skill positions and the line must get better.

LANDRY JONES, SOPH., OKLAHOMA: Losing Sam Bradford was bad for the 2009 Oklahoma Sooners, but it was great for Landry Jones and the 2010 Oklahoma Sooners.  The Sooners are now replacing Sam Bradford with a player who threw for 3198 yards and 26 touchdowns as a redshirt freshman.  Despite some struggles, Jones showed flashes of the talent that made him one of the nation’s most high-profile recruits.  Jones looked bad in losses to Nebraska (5 INT’s), Texas (24-43 passing, 2 INT’s), and Miami (18-30, 188 yards).  He looked just as good in blowout victories over Tulsa (25-37, 336 yards, 6 TD’s), Kansas (26-38, 252 yards, 2 TD’s), Kansas State (26-37, 294 yards, 4 TD’s), and Texas A&M (24-39, 392 yards, 5 TD’s).  Jones coming out part was the Sun Bowl victory over Stanford, when he torched the weak Stanford secondary for 418 yards and 3 TD’s.  The Sooners return a healthy DeMarco Murray, six of their top seven receivers, and three OL.  Jones needs to improve his decision making and consistency if he wants to make the leaps he is capable of taking this fall.  The Sooners will be tested early in a battle against Florida State.

DWIGHT DASHER, SR., MIDDLE TENNESSEE STATE: If Robert Griffin is the most exciting QB in the nation, Dwight Dasher is 1B.  Whether you agree with this ranking or not, do yourselves a favor and watch this young man play football.  In his first full season as a starter the 5’10 Dasher put up unreal numbers in throwing for 2789 yards, rushing for 1154 yards, and combining for 36 touchdowns.  He will get a chance against Minnesota and Georgia Tech to show the country what he is made of.  Despite being on the short side, Dasher is a tremendous athlete.  He has excellent speed, super agility, and he is a smooth passer.  Dasher is able to attack teams effectively over the middle of the field, with the quick game, and he is able to beat teams over top with his big arm.  He ran for 201 yards and two scores against Southern Mississippi in the New Orleans Bowl and added another 178 yards on the ground against Florida International.  He also threw for 324 yards against Maryland, 355 yards against Western Kentucky, and 263 yards and 4 scores against Arkansas State.  He can truly do it all.  Middle Tennessee returns four starting OL, two starting receivers, and their top running back.  An early season upset of Minnesota would do wonders for his national reputation, but the MTSU defense is replacing 5 starters, so that might be too tall of an order, even for a player as talented as Dasher.

JACORY HARRIS, JR., MIAMI: Not many players on this list are as good at talking the game as does Harris.  Few on this list have as much natural confidence as Harris does either.  Some might grow tired of Harris’ comments, but I believe they are necessary for him to be as good as he is.  Harris is maybe 190 pounds and does not have a strong arm; but he is still able to go out there every week and compete.  Harris was up and down as a sophomore, but when he was on he was hard to beat.  His 3352 passing yards and 25 total touchdowns against their tough schedule is impressive, but just as unimpressive was his 20 total turnovers (17 INT, 3 fumbles).  Harris has a quick release and makes quick decisions.  What he must do is improve his consistency, protect the football better, and learn to play smarter.  There were far too many times when he forced throws that simply do not need to be forced.  The Miami defense is going to be good, and the OL should be good enough, and he returns one of the nation’s top WR units in Leonard Hankerson, LaRon Byrd, Travis Benjamin, and Aldarius Johnson.  If Harris plays well the Canes will have a great season.  We will know very early in the season how good Harris and the Canes will be, as they travel to Columbus, Ohio for a game against the Buckeyes.

NICK FOLES, JR., ARIZONA: Nick Foles began the 2009 season as the backup to sophomore Matt Scott.  After the offenses struggled out of the gate Foles was thrust into the starting job heading into a tough road game against Oregon State.  Foles answer the challenge by going 25-34 for 254 yards and 3 TD’s as the Wildcats upset Oregon State 37-32.  The following week he threw for 384 yards in a shootout loss to Washington and then went 40-51 for 415 yards and 3 scores in a shootout win over Stanford.  Foles finished his sophomore season with 2486 yards and 22 total touchdowns, ending the regular season with a 239 yard, 3 TD performance while leading the Wildcats to a 21-17 upset victory of USC in Los Angeles.  Foles is a big bodied, big armed passer who only needs to improve his accuracy and consistency to take his game, and the Wildcat offense as whole, to new levels in 2010.  Arizona returns four OL and some big time talents at WR and RB, as well as athletic QB Matt Scott’s return.  On September 18^th the Iowa Hawkeyes travel to Tuscon, if Foles is able to withstand the vaunted Hawkeye pass rush and lead the Wildcats to a victory, he will buoy himself onto the national stage and allow him to emerge as one of the nation’s best signal callers.

RICKY DOBBS, SR., NAVY: Think about this, a QB for Navy led the Midshipmen to a victory over Notre Dame in South Bend (23-21), a Texas Bowl victory over Missouri (35-13), and had his team within a two-point conversion attempt away (with 2 minutes left in the 4^th quarter) from tying Ohio State in Columbus.  This is Navy we are talking about!  Dobbs is a fun player to watch, and he finished the 2009 season with 1031 passing yards, 1192 rushing yards, and a whopping 33 combined touchdowns (27 on the ground).  Dobbs finished the season off with five straight 100+ yard rushing games, topped off by 166 yards and 3 rushing scores against Missouri in the Texas Bowl.  Dobbs has a strong arm as well, as evidenced by his performance against Ohio State.  If he improves as a passer this fall he will have completed himself in the Navy offense and will make Navy a hard team to beat.  It might seem a bit absurd to rank a Navy QB ahead of Terrelle Pryor, a player most prognosticators are labeling as a Heisman favorite.  But I watched that game live and have since re-watched it, and it was clear to me that Ricky Dobbs was the better college football player in that matchup.

TERRELLE PRYOR, JR., OHIO STATE: Pryor gets way more publicity than his production deserves.  There is no doubting Pryor’s ability as a runner, as evidenced by his 1410 rushing yards (4.7 average) and 13 rushing scores over the past two seasons.  What is in doubt is whether or not Pryor has developed the passing acumen to make enough plays though the air to run the table, something Ohio State should do this fall against their relatively weak schedule.  Many are hyping his performance against Oregon, which was impressive (266 pass yards, 72 rush yards, 2 TD’s).  But we must remember that was the same defense that gave up 36 points and 451 yards to Purdue, 395 yards to Washington, 51 points and 505 yards to Stanford, 41 points and 441 yards to Arizona, and 33 points and 389 yards to Oregon State.  This is a big year for Pryor, he has to progress as a passer.  He will be surrounded by some talented pass catchers, including one of the nation’s premier receivers in DeVier Posey.  The OL returns relatively intact, and the Ohio State defense is going to be one of the nation’s best.  If Pryor improves his accuracy, consistency, and complete the deep ball he could have a big, big season.  If that happens Pryor will deservedly get Heisman consideration, but if continues to do what he has done the last two years he will be more hype than substance.  This is the same guy that looked bad throwing the ball against USC (11-25, 0 TD, 1 INT), Wisconsin (5-13, 87 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT), Purdue (17-31, 221 yards, 1 TD, 2 INT), New Mexico State (11-23, 135 yards, 1 TD), Penn State (8-17, 125 yards, 2 TD), Iowa (14-17, 93 yards, 0 TD), and Michigan (9-17, 67 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT).  Those are not numbers of a Heisman Trophy candidate.

THE REST
16. Greg McElroy, Sr., Alabama
17. Kirk Cousins, Jr., Michigan State
18. Andy Dalton, Sr., TCU
19. Matt Barkley, Soph., USC
20. Tyrod Taylor, Sr., Virginia Tech
21. Zach Collaros, Jr., Cincinnati
22. Austin Davis, Jr., Southern Miss
23. Nathan Enderle, Sr., Idaho
24. Jordon Jefferson, Jr., LSU
25. Scott Tolzien, Sr., Wisconsin
26. Ricky Stanzi, Sr., Iowa
27. Russell Wilson, Jr., N.C. State
28. Trevor Vittatoe, Sr., UTEP
29. Josh Nesbitt, Sr., Georgia Tech
30. Colin Kaepernick, Sr., Nevada

Alabama senior (16) Greg McElroy threw for 2508 yards and 17 TD’s in leading the Crimson Tide to the 2009 National Championship.  McElroy was the epitome of steadiness during the 2009 season, but must be able to make more plays in 2010 if the Tide are going to repeat.  The Michigan State coaches did (17) Kirk Cousins a disservice by constantly rotating him with Keith Nichol during the 2009 season.  With Nichol now at WR the QB job is Cousins, and with a boat load of returning skill players I expect him to have a big year.  If the OL holds up, Cousins will have a chance to emerge as the Big 10’s best quarterback.  There are many QB’s in the country with more talent, but few QB’s can match the win totals and production of TCU senior (18) Andy Dalton.  Dalton continues to get better each year and the 2010 TCU offense returns 9 starters from a unit that scored 40+ seven times last fall.  Early games against Oregon State and Baylor gives Dalton and the Horned Frogs an opportunity to continue their dominant ways against teams from power conferences.  I have mixed emotions about where to rank USC sophomore (19) Matt Barkley.  Barkley has a big time arm and plays with a lot of confidence.  It is not out of the question to expect him to emerge as a Top 10 QB this season, but a revamped OL and host of newcomers on offense could slow his rise up the charts.  One thing working in his favor is the talent of the newcomers, as well as the weak schedule the Trojans play this fall.  The only person holding back Virginia Tech senior (20) Tyrod Taylor appears to be his offensive coordinator.  Taylor was solid last fall, throwing for 2311 yards, rushing for 370, and accounting for 18 TD’s.  The Hokies have a great rushing attack with Ryan Williams and Darren Evans.  If Bryan Stinespring allows Taylor to capitalize on that with more play-action passes, deep passes, and using the quick game to get the ball in the hands of his playmakers, he could have a monster season.  He will be tested early, but do not be surprised to see Taylor lead Virginia Tech to a win over Boise State.

This season (21) Zach Collaros of Cincinnati won’t be able to sneak up on teams.  They will be preparing for him every week, so it will be interesting to see how he responds.  He is an excellent athlete with a solid arm and a ton of confidence.  He also will be throwing to a WR corps that is loaded with playmakers.  If he can lead the Bearcats to 10+ wins against the schedule they play this fall it will be because Collaros is playing like an All-American.  As a freshman (22) Austin Davis of Southern Mississippi was one of the nation’s premier young quarterbacks.  An injury in 2009 took away the majority of his season, but he returns healthy and he will be throwing to one of the nation’s top WR’s in DeAndre Brown.  The only question is will he be able to hold up behind and OL that must replace four starters from a year ago.  Despite missing two games with an injury Idaho senior (23) Nathan Enderle threw for 2906 yards and 22 TD’s while leading Idaho to their first bowl game since 1998.  Enderle is a big-armed QB who returns almost all of his top weapons this fall.  If the revamped OL gives him time expect to see Enderle again lead Idaho to a ton of points and wins.  (24) Jordon Jefferson of LSU improved tremendously as his sophomore season wore on, and with one of the top pass-catching units in the SEC returning expect to see those improvements continue.  If Jefferson learns how to use his athleticism to his advantage, improves his decision-making, and becomes a more consistent player the Tigers will challenge for the SEC West title.  The Wisconsin Badgers return 10 starters on an offense led by rising senior (25) Scott Tolzien.  Tolzien is not flashy, he does not possess an NFL arm, and he will never get talked about nearly as much as his play deserves; but he wins football games.  He will have a tremendous supporting cast this fall and will be protected by one of the nation’s top offensive lines.  If he can lead the Badgers to a win over Ohio State and play with more aggressiveness (like he did against Miami) Tolzien will finally get the credit he is due.

There is no doubting the ability of Iowa senior (26) Ricky Stanzi, or his value to the Hawkeye football team.  When he went down late in the 2009 season the Hawkeyes suffered the only two defeats of their season.  Stanzi is a playmaker who needs to cut down on his interceptions and forced plays.  If he does he will have a chance to take Iowa back to a BCS game thanks to a big time defense and a talented group of returning skill players.  The one big question is the OL, which lost three starters.  I am not as high on (27) Russell Wilson as others, and honestly do not believe he is even the best QB on the N.C. State roster, but Wilson threw for 3027 yards and 31 TD’s as a sophomore.  Wilson is an exciting player and has two of the best big play threats on the east coast in Owen Spencer and Jarvis Williams.  The Wolfpack need Wilson to play well each week to have a chance to get back to a bowl game, something Wilson struggled with in 2009.  If he falters, gets injured, or leaves for the MLB Draft do not expect Mike Glennon to miss a beat.  After two tremendous seasons UTEP senior (28) Trevor Vittatoe struggled during the 2009 season.  Despite his inconsistency, he still managed to throw for 3308 yards and 17 TD’s.  He returns one of the nation’s top running backs and three of his top four receivers, but the UTEP defense lost 7 starters, which could put Vittatoe and the Miner offense in a position of playing catch-up quite a bit this fall.  (29) Josh Nesbitt is a solid quarterback for Paul Johnson’s triple option and is one of the toughest football players in the country.  By the end of last season it appeared he had mastered Johnson’s offense and led Georgia Tech to the Orange Bowl.  Nesbitt loses his only big play weapon in the pass game, which was already an area of concern for the 6’1 signal caller.  He will have to improve upon his ability to make plays with his arm if he wants to take the next step an become one of the league’s best QB’s.  He rushed for 1037 yards as a junior, which is impressive, but averaged only 3.7 yards per carry, another stat that must improve.  This might be a bit low for a player with such impressive numbers, but Nevada senior (30) Colin Kaepernick failed to play up to his numbers in the biggest games of the season.  Despite throwing for 2052 yards, rushing for another 1183 yards, and accounting for 36 TD’s, Kaepernick was shut down against Notre Dame, Missouri, and Boise State; he also failed to impress in the blowout bowl loss to Southern Methodist.  If he wants to regain his stature as one of the nation’s top playmakers Kaepernick needs to play well against California, BYU, and Boise State.  His WR’s did not help him out in 2009 much, as they suffered from the drops all season.

SLEEPERS
Ben Chappell, Sr., Indiana
Stephen Garcia, Jr., South Carolina
G.J. Kinne, Jr., Tulsa
Ryan Lindley, Jr., San Diego State
Kevin Riley, Sr., California
Adam Weber, Sr., Minnesota

Indiana returns a ton of weapons on offense, and if Ben Chappell can improve his consistency he has the size and arm strength to have a big year, which means a shot at a bowl game for the Hoosiers.  Keep an eye on him this fall.  There is no questioning Stephen Garcia’s talent, but even South Carolina Head Coach Steve Spurrier questions his attitude, consistency, and leadership.  If he improves on all three of those he will have a big junior season, as he returns an impressive cast of skill players.  After transferring from Texas, Tulsa junior G.J. Kinne struggled early on to keep up with the monster season the Tulsa offense had in 2008, when the Hurricane won 11 games; but by the end of the year Kinne was using both his arm and his legs to put up huge numbers.  With 9 returning starters expect to see Kinne put up huge numbers this fall, and expect to see Tulsa go bowling at the end of the season.  It would not surprise me one bit if San Diego State junior Ryan Lindley leaped past many of the quarterbacks listed in the Top 30.  Lindley is a big, talented, strong-armed kid who is being coached by one of the games’ best offensive minds.  He has some talent coming back and is now in year two of the Brady Hoke/Al Borges regime.  Expect to see Lindley have a great season.  At times California senior Kevin Riley looked like an All-Pac 10 talents, and at others times he looked like an average-at-best QB.  If he can be the former more consistently expect to see California compete for a Pac 10 title.  If the latter persists they will once again disappoint.  If Minnesota senior Adam Weber were surrounded by a better cast of characters and in a system that was better suited to his abilities he would be ranked in the Top 30.  He is a talented young man who has proven he can take a beating, but he simply does not have the supporting cast he needs.  If players emerge this fall and the Minnesota coaches build around him, it would not surprise me to see him have a solid senior season, which would  buoy him into a higher draft position.

UP AND COMERS
1. Tom Savage, Soph., Rutgers
2. Kyle Padron, Soph., SMU
3. Kyle Parker, Soph., Clemson
4. B.J. Daniels, Soph., South Florida
5. Jordon Wynn, Soph., Utah
6. Austyn Carta-Samuels, Soph., Wyoming
7. Kevin Prince, Soph., UCLA

Rutgers sophomore (1) Tom Savage has all the tools to become a great college quarterback.  He is big, he has a strong arm, he is a winner, and he is fearless; he is also surrounded by many weapons.  If the Rutgers OL can retool Savage will go from being a young “up-and-comer” and he will emerge as one of the nation’s best.  The same can be said for SMU sophomore (2) Kyle Padron.  After taking over for the injured Bo Levi Mitchell in the Houston game, Padron went on to throw for 1922 yards and 10 TD’s in only seven games.  He was brilliant in the bowl victory over Nevada.  If he stays healthy, Padron could be one of the most productive QB’s in the nation this fall.  Clemson sophomore (3) Kyle Parker must first decide how committed he is to football with the MLB Draft fast approaching.  If he sticks with football, he showed the moxie, poise, and arm strength to have a big sophomore season.  Despite losing C.J. Spiller and Jacoby Ford Clemson does not lack for playmakers.  It was obvious to see the talent possessed by South Florida sophomore (4) B.J. Daniels, as evidenced by his leading USF to victories over Florida State and West Virginia.  In order to develop into a truly standout QB Daniels must learn to be more consistent as a passer and make better decisions.  It was trial-by-fire for Utah sophomore (5) Jordan Wynn after taking over for Terrance Cain during his freshman season.  Wynn showed grittiness, despite being undersized, and by the end of the season had full control of the Utah offense.  He was masterful in his dissection of California in the bowl game, and I expect that to carry over into the 2010 season.  No one expected Wyoming to be back in a bowl game last fall, but then again no one expected sophomore (6) Austyn Carta-Samuels to be as good as he was either.  Carta-Samuels is a run-throw player who led Wyoming to an impressive bowl victory over Fresno State.  With 7 returners on offense and 7 on defense it is possible the Cowboys could find themselves back in a bowl game, but only if Carta-Samuels continues to take steps forward as a QB.  (7) Kevin Prince’s numbers during his freshman year at UCLA will not blow you away, but he showed enough ability to make one think he has a chance to emerge as a solid player.  Prince will be surrounded by talent at the skill positions, and Norm Chow is still calling plays; but UCLA needs help up front in order to protect Prince and open up run lanes.  If the latter two things happen expect to see the Bruins win a lot more games, and Prince to put up real good numbers.

FIRST YEAR STARTERS / ROOKIES TO WATCH
John Brantley, Jr., Florida
Dayne Crist, Jr., Notre Dame
Garrett Gilbert, Soph., Texas
Kale Pick, Soph., Kansas
Sean Renfree, Soph., Duke
Geno Smith, Soph., West Virginia
Tino Sunseri, Soph., Pittsburgh
Tajh Boyd, Fr., Clemson
Aaron Murray, Fr., Georgia
Bryn Renner, Fr., North Carolina

In limited moments as Tim Tebow’s backup, Florida junior John Brantley showed the arm strength, accuracy, and leadership that made him one of the nation’s premier QB recruits.  Brantley will bring a new dimension to the Florida offense, and it would not surprise me to see the Florida offense be even better with him under center.  Notre Dame junior Dayne Crist has big shoes to fill with the early departure of Jimmy Clausen to the NFL.  He holds the key to the Irish’s success for the 2010 season.  He has arguably the nation’s top returning set of skill players at his disposal. He showed flashes of his big time ability in 2009 before being lost for the season with a knee injury.  If he stays healthy do not be surprised if Crist puts up mega numbers in Brian Kelly’s pass-happy offense, which will mean more wins and a bowl game for the Irish.  Texas sophomore Garrett Gilbert was thrown into an impossible situation last January.  After All-American QB Colt McCoy went down in the 1^st quarter, the game was thrust upon the shoulders of the freshman Gilbert against the nation’s best defense.  It was ugly at first, but once he got his feet underneath him Gilbert started to shred the Bama defense and had Texas within 3 points late in the 4^th quarter.  That performance, and the return of several outstanding weapons, has Texas fans thinking their offense won’t miss a bit with Gilbert now at the helm.  They could be right.  If sophomore Kale Pick can run the new offense as well as he ran the previous offense, the Jayhawks should still field a potent offense.  Pick is a smooth and athletic player who should fit Gill’s run-first offense quite nicely.  Duke sophomore Sean Renfree was one of the nation’s most sought-after QB prospects before shocking the recruiting world by picking the Blue Devils.  He was able to learn under an all-time Duke great in Thad Lewis; but now it is Renfree’s turn, and I expect him to shine.  He will have one of Duke’s best supporting cast’s in recent memory and he will be coached by one of the nation’s premier QB coaches in David Cutcliffe.  Renfree could be considered one of the ACC’s best by the end of the season.  The health of sophomore Geno Smith will be one of the biggest keys to West Virginia’s chances to win the Big East this fall.  Smith is a talented athlete and fits the WVU offense well.  He is still a bit raw as a passer, but is a more pure thrower than either of WVU’s last two quarterbacks.  WVU returns a lot of talent on offense, and it will be Smith’s job, assuming he is healthy, to get the ball into the hands of the playmakers.  Tino Sunseri steps into a great situation for Pittsburgh.  The OL returns a deep and talented unit, he will be handing off to arguably the nation’s best running back, and he will be throwing to one of the nation’s best WR’s.  If he can simply manage the offense, make the occasional big play to Baldwin, and protect the football he should be able to pick up right where Bill Stull left off.  If Kyle Parker decides to pursue baseball instead of returning for his sophomore season expect to see Tajh Boyd emerge as the new signal caller for the Tigers.  Boyd is more athletic than Parker and is more of a spread QB, which Clemson is doing less of under Dabo Sweeney.  Boyd has the tools to be a successful throwing QB, but he will need more time to really make consistent plays with his arm.  If the Georgia run game and the Bulldog defense can play well early expect to see freshman Aaron Murray transition nicely into the starting role for the Bulldogs.  Do not be surprised if by the end of the season he is one of the SEC’s best signal callers, as he will be surrounded by a potentially dominant OL and one of the nation’s best casts of skill players, led by All-American candidate A.J. Green.  Todd Reesing was a great QB at Kansas, and now a new era (and a new offense) has arrived with Turner Gill.  If T.J. Yates cannot get the job done for the North Carolina offense early in the season expect a quick hook in favor of ultra-talented freshman Bryn Renner.  Renner will be more turnover prone early on than Yates, but he will also make far more plays with both his big time arm and his athletic ability.

TOP NEWCOMERS
Tyler Bray, Fr., Tennessee
Jake Heaps, Fr., Brigham Young
Paul Jones, Fr., Penn State
Peter Thomas, Fr., Colorado State

Cameron Newton, Jr., Auburn (JUCO)

Taylor Cook, Soph., Rice (Transfer/Miami, FL)
Robert Marve, Jr., Purdue (Transfer/Miami, FL)

I am not very high on Matt Simms, and I fully expect freshman Tyler Bray to supplant Simms at some point during the 2010 season.  Bray is still thin and could use a year of seasoning, but he’s got a big arm and has the tools to make enough plays as a freshman to lead the Vols to some victories.  BYU freshman Jake Heaps is a super talented young passer.  His arm is stronger than he is given credit for, he has a great release, he comes from an excellent system, and he will have some weapons to throw to for the Cougars.  He will go through some growing pains, but by the end of the year expect his numbers to be top notch for a freshman.  Penn State is still unsettled at the QB position, but do not be surprised if freshman Paul Jones wins the job.  Jones is very, very raw as a passer but he has a great body and he’s very athletic.  If he can make enough plays with his arm, he will win the job over sophomore Kevin Newsome.  Colorado State freshman Peter Thomas was a highly recruited passer coming out of California.  It was a surprise to see him ditch Arizona State for the Rams, but it gave him a chance to win a job as a freshman.  Thomas has a big arm and is a solid athlete.  I believe he will have a good freshman season and in time a standout for Colorado State.

The Auburn season hinges on how good Juco transfer Cameron Newton turns out to be.  Newton was a heavily recruited player out of high school who signed with Florida in the same class as John Brantley.  Newton ran into some trouble but seems to have straightened himself out.  He is an incredible athlete and he is huge.  The question is whether or not he will be able to consistently make plays with his arm.  He has super athletes and playmakers around him, and if he steps up this fall the Auburn offense could be one of the nation’s best and the Tigers will compete for the SEC West championship.  If he struggles, Auburn will struggle to win games.

Purdue junior Robert Marve transferred in from Miami and took over the starting job in the fall.  Marve is a solid athlete with a good arm.  He had some issues with decision making at Miami, but he’s older now and has been in Purdue’s system for a year.  He will have some weapons to throw to, and if he emerges this fall as a legit player the Boilermakers will be a tough team to beat come October and November.  Another Miami transfer, sophomore Taylor Cook, is another ultra-talented player run-throw player with a good arm and surprising athleticism for a 6’7 player.  Rice returns a lot of talent on offense and Cook is primed for a big season.