Recruiting, much like the NFL draft, gives fans of all programs reason to celebrate in the spring and summer months following the bowl season.
With the current trend of upward mobility in college football (see Kansas, Illinois), more than ever it appears that adding that extra four-star linebacker could be the difference between 4-8 and 6-6.
That said, it is clear that not all highly regarded prospects are created equal; some, like Terrelle Pryor, are obviously developmental prospects that won’t contribute a lot, if at all, to the upcoming season.
Others, like Clemson’s Jamie Harper, might have all the talent in the world, but are locked behind better, more senior players (CJ Spiller and James Davis, to be exact).
Here is a list of players who have the talent, and the opportunity, to heavily contribute during the 2008 season.
Da’Quan Bowers, DE, Clemson
Even with the loss of star defensive end Philip Merling to the NFL draft, Clemson still boasts a strong returning defensive line, headlined by Dorell Scott and Rashaad Jackson in the middle.
The two tackles combined for 87 tackles, but only four sacks. End Ricky Sapp returns as well, but no one on the line is as balanced, or as talented as Bowers.
Rated the number one prospect overall by ESPN, Bowers is a physical freak at a “skinny” six foot-fve inches tall and 265 pounds. His athletic prowess is obvious, as he not only contributed 97 tackles and 10 sacks on defense, but also managed over 1200 yards rushing in his senior season!
His frame is solid, but almost wiry, and it appears he will be able to play at well over 290 pounds without sacrificing speed. It is clear that he will be expected to contribute immediately, as he notched seven tackles and two sacks, both team highs, in Clemson’s spring game.
His combination of size and speed (4.8 40-yard dash) reminds me of Mario Williams, another former ACC end of high caliber.
Clemson has had a run of disappointing seasons lately, but this year looks like it could finally be time for Clemson to “break out” in the ACC. Offensive fireworks are expected all season, but it is the addition of Bowers that might push the Tiger defense from good to great.
Darrell Scott, RB, Colorado
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