Kevin Smith: Rookie Of The Year

Darren McFadden, Jonathan Stewart, Felix Jones, Rashard Mendenhall, Chris Johnson, Matt Forte, and Ray Rice were all taken in front of the first pick in the third round by the Detriot Lions. Kevin Smith is the running back from Central Florida who flirted with breaking Barry Sanders rushing record.

Rookie of the year? Yes. The Lions fell in love with Smith's talent when they saw him, and so did I. The only players in college to impress me over the last three years have been Adrian Peterson, Marshawn Lynch, and Kevin Smith.

Darren McFadden has to be the favorite, but the Raiders are a mess right now. Their offensive line is as effective as putting Girl Scouts at the line.

Jamarcus Russel will get his first season to prove something, so defenses will blitz him to put pressure. The pocket for the Raiders offense will be limited, disabling Peterson to reach full potential.

Matt Ryan is the second favorite, but he will be throwing to guys who can't even catch a cold.

I know I am going on a limb, but Smith is a great runner who has great vision. He did play against talent not as good as there is in the SEC, but just watching him play makes him exciting.

Coach Marinelli is going to run the ball and use Smith as the starting running back. With Mike Martz out, the ball will actually be handed off to the running back. Smith's versatility will make him a key to the Lions next season.

He is a powerful inside runner who can also break tackles to burst passed the defense.

One thing that makes him a threat is that he is an effective player when he catches the ball in the backfield to make plays.

The offensive line actually is good too. Last year they were exposed because many defenses knew they were going to pass it more. The running game was ineffective, which made defenses expect what was going to happen.

With John Kitna having many targets to pass to, Kevin Smith will have at least that pressure taken off of him. The Lions offense will be effective because of this, which will get them to the playoffs. Their success will lead to Smith getting offensive rookie of the year.

I predict Smith will run 1200 yards and catch over 500 for a total of 11 touchdowns. This will take the Lions over the hump to the playoffs as he will be a household name for many years to come.

Make sure to keep your eyes on Kevin Smith of the Detroit Lions. He will surprise you.