Bleacher Report - Articles by Kevin

2009 College Football Top 25: Post Spring

Kevin — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 21:03:05 -0400

Now that Spring Practice is basically over and we head into the wait for summer practices to begin, I thought I would rank my top 25 teams and then provide some in depth looks at them. I also added my teams that I had ranked between 26 and 50. So I have ranked the teams and then provided a bunch of categories on both offense and defense and chosen a player that fits in that role the best for their team. First I want to clarify all of the categories in case people don't understand what I mean by them. All seven of these categories are applied to each team's offense and defense. The first category is the "Star" category. For a few teams, such as Oklahoma State, there were guys that were equal as the stars of their team so they share this category. So some teams may have two players in this category. The second category is the "Underrated" category. Some of the guys here may get attention but it is really the guys who don't get enough attention or acclaim nationally for how good they are.Those of you that follow each team very closely may not agree with underrated but that is because you are a big fan of that team and hear about this player all the time. The third category is "Biggest Shoes to Fill" and this is basically the guy that has left from last year's team that will be hardest for the team to replace their production. The fourth category is "Breakout Candidate", which is basically the guy who may have had some impact last year and been one of the better players on their team but I feel that this year they will put up really big numbers and get a lot of national attention. The fifth category is "Newcomer to Watch", which is basically what it says. It is the player that is new to the team, whether they be a true freshman or JUCO recruit. This player is the one who could really have a huge impact on the team's success. The sixth category is "Trench Warrior" which is basically the teams top lineman, the guy who wins those critical battles up front. I felt I had to add a category for lineman, especially on offense since most lineman won't be the stars of their teams. The seventh and final category is "Future NFL Star". I felt this was an interesting one since a lot of teams star players, like Tim Tebow and Colt McCoy may not be the best draft prospect on their team. So I designed a category to look at each team's best NFL prospect on the offensive and defensive sides.This is the one category that I decided that I would repeat players as some of the teams just did not have players that were the top NFL talent other than the guys I had already picked for other categories. I also tried to make sure no player was repeated. This was tough and there were a few teams it couldn't be done but most of the time the only way a player is repeated is if they are in the "Future NFL Star" category. After all of those categories for both sides of the ball, I have one category that applies to the team as a whole and that is the "Team's Biggest Question" heading into the year. There are no lengthy paragraphs explaining each team and why I picked them, that will come in a later edition. So feel free to comment and disagree with a player I picked for a role or the ranking I have for a team. I know it is long but it is more a list at each slide instead of a few paragraphs which I am hoping makes it easier to read. So here it is, enjoy.

Begin Slideshow

2009 NFL Mock Draft: Version 2.0

Kevin — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 20:17:20 -0400

Here is my last and final mock draft. I wish I could do a second round, but I do not really have the time.

My first is here for your perusal, however, and I have included later picks for the teams that do not have first round picks.

First Round

1. Detroit Lions: Matthew Stafford, QB, Georgia

Already in negotiations, looks like a deal will get done.

2. St. Louis Rams: Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia

Have heard that it is down to Smith and Monroe but that the Rams prefer the former Cavalier.

3. Kansas City Chiefs: Aaron Curry, LB, Wake Forest

Safest pick in the draft, and the Chiefs won't pass up on him.

4. Seattle Seahawks: Mark Sanchez, QB, USC

Hasselback is getting old, it's about time to find replacement.

5. Cleveland Browns: Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU

The best 3-4 end, he's rocketing up draft boards.

6. Cincinnati Bengals: Jason Smith, OT, Baylor

He's taken a bit of a tumble, and I am among those that believe he is overrated.

7. Oakland Raiders: Andre Smith, OT, Alabama

Just don't think that Crabtree is fast enough for Al Davis.

8. Jacksonville Jaguars: Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech

Even with signing of vet wideout Torry Holt, there should be no hesitation here.

9. Green Bay Packers: B.J. Raji, DT, Boston College

Green Bay would love Andre Smith, but will settle for Raji.

10. San Francisco 49ers: Brian Orakpo, DE/OLB, Texas

Could see Oher here, but they can't pass up the premier pass rusher.

11. Buffalo Bills: Michael Oher, OT, Ole Miss

Out goes Jason Peters, in comes Michael Oher.

12. Denver Broncos: Everette Brown, DE/OLB, Florida State

Would love Tyson Jackson but will settle for a 3-4 linebacker.

13. Washington Redskins: Robert Ayers, DE, Tennessee

Dan Snyder must be real upset he couldn't get Sanchez.

14. New Orleans Saints: Malcolm Jenkins, CB/FS, Ohio State

Fairly easy pick if Jenkins is still there.

15. Houston Texans: Brian Cushing, OLB, USC

Cushing is most athletic of USC linebackers and better than the over-hyped Matthews.

16. San Diego Chargers: Rey Maualuga, MLB, USC

He's got work ethic issues, but if they're fixed, he's real special.

17. New York Jets: Chris Wells, RB, Ohio State

Thomas Jones is not getting any younger.

18. Denver Broncos (from Chicago): Aaron Maybin, DE/OLB, Penn State

Look at that: The Broncos get two 3-4 linebackers and improve their defense.

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Josh Freeman, QB, Kansas State

Heard that they are very locked in on Freeman.

20. Detroit Lions (from Dallas): Eben Britton, OT, Arizona

Smart move to take a QB and then protect him.

21. Philadelphia Eagles: Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia

An absolute steal at 21 for the Eagles.

22. Minnesota Vikings: Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri

Takes a bit of a fall based on teams' needs, and Vikings are ecstatic.

23. New England Patriots: Darius Butler, CB, Connecticut

A much better corner than Vontae Davis.

24. Atlanta Falcons: Peria Jerry, DT, Ole Miss

Can really fix their defensive line with Jerry in the middle.

25. Miami Dolphins: Clay Matthews, OLB, USC

Maybe a little overrated, but should work well with Parcells.

26. Baltimore Ravens: Kenny Britt, WR, Rutgers

I think he is the best pure receiver after Crabtree.

27. Indianapolis Colts: Evander Hood, DT, Missouri

With Jerry gone, they'll go for next-best defensive tackle.

28. Buffalo Bills (from Philadelphia via Carolina): Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma State

Could have reached for him at 11 but can still get him at 28.

29. New York Giants: Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland

Mistake not trading this for Edwards, as Heyward-Bey is most overrated player in this year's crop.

30. Tennessee Titans: Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois

Work ethic issues, but too talented to not take risk on.

31. Arizona Cardinals: Donald Brown, RB, Connecticut

Talented running back who could be a No. 1 option in a year or two.

32. Pittsburgh Steelers: Alex Mack, C, California

Smart pick here for the Steelers.

49. Chicago Bears: Hakeem Nicks, WR, North Carolina

Could see him falling, and the Bears would love that.

52. Dallas Cowboys: William Moore, S, Missouri

Take a strong safety to replace Roy Williams.

59. Carolina Panthers: Paul Kruger, DE, Utah

With Julius Peppers holding out, smart move to get depth.

2009 NFL Draft Big Board: Top 100 Available

Kevin — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 15:52:33 -0400

I will be putting out my second and final mock draft either later today or tomorrow morning. But for now, here is my Big Board, the top 100 players available. I have not included writing for everyone, just some small tidbits on certain players that needed explaining.

You'll get info on everyone in the top 32 and anyone below that needed explaining. Here we go:

Aaron Curry, LB, Wake Forest: The safest pick in draft.
Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech: Screw or not, he's good.
Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia: An elite pass blocker.
Mark Sanchez, QB, USC: Call me crazy, I just think he is better.
B.J. Raji, DT, Boston College: No failed test is great news.
Andre Smith, OT, Alabama: A little immature, but dominated the SEC for three years.
Matthew Stafford, QB, Georgia: I just have this feeling about him.
Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia: Gonna be a steal for someone.
Jason Smith, OT, Baylor: Very overrated, in my opinion.
Brian Orakpo, DE/OLB, Texas: Reminds me a little of Vernon Gholston.
Darius Butler, CB, Connecticut: Best corner here, hands down.
Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU: The best 3-4 end available.
Chris Wells, RB, Ohio State: When he's healthy, watch out.
Malcolm Jenkins, CB, Ohio State: Slow, but still very good.
Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri: Provides help in the return game too.
Michael Oher, OT, Ole Miss: A bit overrated, but plays at a premium position.
Robert Ayers, DE, Tennessee: Rising, and some think the best player of this draft five years down the road.
Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma State: The complete tight end.
Kenny Britt, WR, Rutgers: Best pure receiver after Crabtree.
Everette Brown, DE/OLB, Florida State: Falling, but will go in the first round.
Rey Maualuga, MLB, USC: The next Ray Lewis.
Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois: Immature and never really produced in college.
Brian Cushing, OLB, USC: Extremely athletic.
Peria Jerry, DT, Ole Miss: Could be very good value late inthe first round.
Donald Brown, RB, Connecticut: Just a step below the other two.
Eben Britton, OT, Arizona: Very solid in deep tackle class.
Clay Matthews, OLB, USC: I'm not as high on him as others.
Percy Harvin, WR, Florida: Questions abound, but have you seen him play?
Alex Mack, C, California: Best center, but Unger (see No. 33) is close
Larry English, DE/OLB, Northern Illinois: Been a pass rushing force.
William Beatty, OT, Connecticut: Good talent, premium position.
Josh Freeman, QB, Kansas State: In a deeper QB class, he'd be a second rounder.
Max Unger, C, Oregon
Brian Robiskie, WR, Ohio State
Hakeem Nicks, WR, North Carolina: His work ethic worries me a little.
Aaron Maybin, DE/OLB, Penn State: Another very overrated player.
James Laurinaitis, MLB, Ohio State: Can't ignore his production in college.
Evander Hood, DT, Missouri
Sean Smith, S/CB, Utah
Clint Sintim, OLB, Virginia
Alphonso Smith, CB, Wake Forest: Small but still effective.
Ron Brace, DT, Boston College
Louis Delmas, S, Western Michigan
Victor Harris, CB, Virginia Tech
Jared Cook, TE, South Carolina: A 4.4 40 for a tight end is scary.
LeSean McCoy, RB, Pittsburgh
Jamon Meredith, OT, South Carolina
William Moore, SS, Missouri: Some don't like him, but he is talented
Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland: The most overrated player in draft
Michael Johnson, DE, Georgia Tech: A workout warrior with a work ethic issue.
Rashad Johnson, S, Alabama
Paul Kruger, DE, Utah
Connor Barwin, DE/OLB, Cincinnati
D.J. Moore, CB, Vanderbilt
Duke Robinson, OG, Oklahoma
Travis Beckum, TE, Wisconsin
Tyrone McKenzie, OLB, South Florida
Sen'Derrick Marks, DT, Auburn
Cornelius Ingram, TE, Florida
Phil Loadholt, OT, Oklahoma
Patrick Chung, S, Oregon
Antoine Caldwell, C, Alabama
Juaquin Iglesias, WR, Oklahoma
Alex Magee, DT, Purdue
Eric Wood, C, Louisville
Mark Parson, CB, Ohio
Shonn Greene, RB, Iowa
Pat White, WR/QB, West Virginia: Tough to gauge what he will do.
Jason Phillips, MLB, TCU
Louis Murphy, WR, Florida: Never got a real chance to shine at Florida.
Fili Moala, DT, USC
Darcel McBath, S, Texas Tech
Ramses Barden, WR, Cal Poly-SLO
Rashad Jennings, RB, Liberty
Gerald McRath, OLB, Southern Miss
Jonathan Luigs, C, Arkansas
Keenan Lewis, CB, Oregon State
James Casey, TE, Rice
Brandon Gibson, WR, Washington State
Cedric Peerman, RB, Virginia
Gerald Cadogan, OT, Penn State
Jarron Gilbert, DT, San Jose State
Sherrod Martin, S, Troy
Jairus Byrd, CB, Oregon
Troy Kropog, OT, Tulane
Andy Levitre, OG, Oregon State
Chris Baker, DT, Hampton
Michael Hamlin, S, Clemson
Chase Coffman, TE, Missouri
Darry Beckwith, MLB, LSU
Deon Butler, WR, Penn State: The best of the three Penn State wideouts available.
Marcus Freeman, OLB, Ohio State
Herman Johnson, OG, LSU: A big, big man.
Dorell Scott, DT, Clemson
Cody Brown, DE/OLB, Connecticut
Derrick Williams, WR, Penn State
Coye Francis, CB, San Jose State
Lawrence Sidbury, DE, Richmond
Phillip Hunt, DE, Houston
James Davis, RB, Clemson

2009 NFL Mock Draft: Version 1.0

Kevin — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 14:38:30 -0400

So I have been reading and paying lots of attention to the NFL Draft for the past month and been thinking about doing a mock draft but never got the time to get around to it.

Now I have produced my first mock draft. It is two rounds with analysis for each pick. Enjoy and feel free to comment and disagree and I will respond to you and provide insight into your questions about my draft.

First Round

1. Detroit Lions-Matthew Stafford-QB-Georgia

This pick was very tough as I know Detroit would love to trade out to avoid the financial burden. It comes down to Stafford or Jason Smith and Stafford wins because they need a QB badly.

He can be the face of the franchise and if they were smart, they would look at how Matt Ryan has helped Atlanta as an example of not passing on great quarterback's. Now if it comes down to sign-ability, this may be Smith as he will likely be an easier sign and Detroit is looking for an easy, pain free signing before the draft.

2. St. Louis Rams-Jason Smith-OT-Baylor

To me, tackle is a pretty obvious pick here for St. Louis. They just released Orlando Pace this offseason and Alex Barron is no superstar. In Smith, they get a guy who can step in right away and take Orlando Pace's spot and continue a legacy of great left tackle play in St. Louis.

If Smith is gone, they could go with Eugene Monroe but may consider Michael Crabtree or Aaron Curry.

3. Kansas City Chiefs-Aaron Curry-LB-Wake Forest

Aaron Curry is the safest pick in the draft. Most experts will agree on this and it is great value for a player that is probably the No. 1 player on most teams value boards is here at No. 3.

In Curry they get a guy who can play any of the three linebacker positions. Curry provides defensive talent for a team with not much to brag about and could combine with Derrick Johnson and Glenn Dorsey to form a solid young core.

4. Seattle Seahawks-Eugene Monroe-OT-Virginia

This is another tough one, as they would love to see Stafford fall here and get their replacement in waiting for Matt Hasselbeck. Signing T.J. Houshmandzadeh minimizes the chance of picking Crabtree here.

I just don't see them taking a player and committing number four money to him when they already signed a player for huge money at that position in free agency. In Monroe, Seattle gets their replacement for the 35 year old Walter Jones.

5. Cleveland Browns-Brian Orakpo-DE/OLB-Texas

Have heard that Everette Brown is rising on Cleveland's radar and he could go here but I still have a feeling its going to be Orakpo. Both are great rushers and would provide the Browns with another pass rusher.

But Orakpo is just that much better to deserve this pick and with him on the other side, Kamerion Wimbley would be freed up and able to get back to his past production

6. Cincinnati Bengals-B.J. Raji-DT-Boston College

Oh how funny, the Bengals pick a player that has had problems in the past. What a surprise. First off, the only way that Raji's drug test bothers me is if he did it very close to the combine when he knew he was being tested.

Other than that, seriously people, i would bet close to 75 percent of the players in this draft have tried marijuana. I mean our President has admitted to smoking weed. So it really isn't a huge deal unless he can't control himself. Raji provides a nice inside presence for Cincinnati.

7. Oakland Raiders-Jeremy Maclin-WR-Missouri

Another one of those speed guys from Al Davis. This pick being Crabtree wouldn't surprise me as well as Orakpo if he is available. But we all know Al Davis calls the shots and loves speed.

Maclin is a very fast player, and one of the most dynamic in the draft and could be a nice target for JaMarcus Russell. He also comes with the added bonus as a return man.

8. Jacksonville Jaguars-Michael Crabtree-WR-Texas Tech

If Crabtree is there at No. 8, the Jaguars will not hesitate one bit to submit their draft card. They have released Jerry Porter and Matt Jones and let Reggie Williams walk in free agency.

Only Jones produced last year but he cared more about drugs than football. Right now their wideouts are Dennis Northcutt, Mike Walker, and Troy Williamson. Crabtree would be the instant number one and would be a great target to help David Garrard return to the David Garrard of 2007.

9. Green Bay Packers-Everette Brown-DE/OLB-Florida State

Green Bay would love to see Raji be here but will settle for Brown none the less. They are going to be in the 3-4 next year and drafting a hybrid defensive end/linebacker is just the thing they need for that transition.

Brown is a very good pass rusher that will give them a nice rush off the edge.

10. San Francisco 49ers-Vontae Davis-CB-Illinois

I think that Mark Sanchez is a possibility here as well as Aaron Maybin but I think they go with Vontae Davis. Davis had a rough year last year, struggling a bit but his measure-ables are everything you want in a corner.

At 6'0" tall and running a 4.40 40-yard dash at his pro day, his stock is rising and will be a good replacement for former Pro Bowl corner Walt Harris.

11. Buffalo Bills-Aaron Maybin-DE-Penn State

The Bills badly need help in the pass rush. They could use a tight end but I think Brandon Pettigrew is a bit of a reach at 11. Maybin is a bit light, even though he has put on weight since the end of the season and will need to gain more strength but his upside has scouts drooling.

He can be that type of impact pass rusher every team wants.

12. Denver Broncos-Mark Sanchez-QB-USC

Lucky for Denver, they get Sanchez even though they did not trade up. The most likely trade partner would be Jacksonville and considering Crabtree as available, Jacksonville will not be trading back.

But after trading one franchise quarterback, they draft another. Sanchez could have used another year as a starter but still he has all the tools to be an excellent pro QB.

I am not sure either Sanchez or Stafford are ready to start right away like Matt Ryan and Joe Flacco but in the case of Sanchez, he has so much upside that he could end up being better than Stafford.

13. Washington Redskins-Andre Smith-OT-Alabama

No one has seen their draft stock plummet more than Andre Smith. I mean what did he expect when he left the combine early without telling anyone and then did not impress at his Pro Day.

He could end up a lot further down than this, but I have a feeling that Dan Snyder is not stupid enough to pass up on him.

Snyder is the only guy other than Al Davis picking in the top 15 that would ignore character issues and take Smith because he is just so talented. Just look at the impact on Alabama's offense when he was suspended in the Sugar Bowl.

And the last Alabama tackle taken by the Redskins, Chris Samuels, turned out pretty good.

14. New Orleans Saints-Malcolm Jenkins-CB/FS-Ohio State

New Orleans defense has been a mess for years and if they can get some solid players on defense, they can really be dangerous. Now that Jonathan Vilma is back again at linebacker, they do not have as much a need there and can focus on the secondary.

Jenkins was a top 10 lock before the combine but a slow 40 there (4.55) and also in his Pro Day (4.53) have people questioning if he has the speed to play corner in the NFL.

No one questions his talent and the potential to play safety gives the Saints options if they think he cannot keep up with receivers.

15. Houston Texans-Brian Cushing-OLB-USC

First off, don't pay any attention to the report of Cushing using steroids. I do not get this website, which still has the page up reporting this even though it has been refuted by the players agents and the NFL.

Now being from Cushing's area of New Jersey, there were rumblings when he was in high school that he was on steroids but once again it was nothing more than rumors. Now Cushing gives the Texans a solid outside backer next to DeMeco Ryans and along with Mario Williams and Amobi Okoye, give the Texans a very good front seven.

16. San Diego Chargers-Rey Maualuga-MLB-USC

I think that Maualuga may be more talented than Cushing yet because of need he drops all the way to 16. San Diego in my opinion gets a steal here. They get a great middle backer to solidify their defense for many years to come.

This guys could very well be the next Ray Lewis. The only problem here is that there are questions of work ethic. If he can change his work ethic, he will be special.

17. New York Jets-Chris Wells-RB-Ohio State

I really thought about Percy Harvin here but in the end, I felt that Chris Wells worked. Thomas Jones had a great year last year but he is 32. In the NFL, 32 at running back is not exactly young.

Leon Washington is not an every down back so Wells can replace Jones when the time comes and then team with Washington in the backfield. It is a tough pick between Wells and Moreno and if Wells can stay healthy, he is scary good.

18. Denver Broncos (from Chicago)-Tyson Jackson-DE-LSU

Denver has major defensive problems and after using their first pick on offense, they need to take a defensive player at 18. Jackson is a very solid end that can rush the passer efficiently as well as play stout run defense.

He was part of some great teams at LSU in the past four years and would be a solid choice here for Denver.

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Josh Freeman-QB-Kansas State

This is one pick, no matter how many mock drafts I look at, that you see pretty unanimously. A new coach would love to have a new quarterback to put in his system and start a new era with.

Also, Brian Griese, Luke McNown, and Josh Johnson aren't exactly guys who make defenses respect the passing game or make offensive coordinators salivate because of their talent. Freeman always was very solid at Kansas State and has been shooting up draft boards because of his physical skills.

20. Detroit Lions (from Dallas)-Michael Oher-OT-Ole Miss

Once considered a top-10 lock, questions about his pass blocking have dropped Michael Oher all the way to No. 20. And this could turn out to be a steal for Detroit as they get a guy who very well has top 10 talent.

What is the point of taking a franchise quarterback in Stafford if he doesn't have protection? Oher will provide the protection for Stafford for years to come.

21. Philadelphia Eagles-Knowshon Moreno-RB-Georgia

Even though I am a big Florida Gators fan, I will not deny the talent that Knowshon Moreno has. He is an extremely talented running back that has star potential.

He drops this far partly because running back isn't a need for many teams picking before 21 and his size and speed are not exactly the most ideal.

Philadelphia could really use another running back. Sure they have Brian Westbrook but he isn't exactly Mr. Durability and with Correll Buckhalter signing with the Rams, they could use a complement to Westbrook.

22. Minnesota Vikings-William Beatty-OT-Connecticut

They could use a quarterback here but unless they want to really reach, they are not going to get one. A receiver is a huge possibility but I think Beatty is a solid option here.

They can give Tarvaris Jackson some more time in the pocket as well as a solid line for Adrian Peterson to operate behind.

23. New England Patriots-Darius Butler-CB-Connecticut

Bill Belichick was recently at Connecticut's Pro Day. That is usually means he is very interested in a player and word is that player is Darius Butler. The Patriots' corners were awful last year, to put it bluntly.

Butler gives them a young corner for the future and could step in immediately and maybe make an impact in nickel and dime situations.

24. Atlanta Falcons-Brandon Pettigrew-TE-Oklahoma State

The Falcons could really use a big time tight end to give Matt Ryan one more option. Their offense could be scary with Ryan having Pettigrew, Roddy White, and Michael Jenkins to throw to. Pettigrew is no Kellen Winslow as a receiver but is solid.

He also brings good blocking and is just a complete tight end.

25. Miami Dolphins-Clay Matthews-OLB-USC

Another guy who got falsely accused of steroid use. Read Brian Cushing's blurb about the smear campaign by nfldraftbible.com. But Matthews had a great year as a defensive end, terrorizing quarterbacks in the Pac-10. He has rocketed up draft boards and presents a good value here for Miami.

With his pass rushing abilities, he will be a good fit in the 3-4 and the NFL roots he has don't hurt either.

26. Baltimore Ravens-Percy Harvin-WR-Florida

This is a pick that I really didn't have to think much about once I saw that Harvin was there for the Ravens. Joe Flacco could really use a big time wide out who can stretch the field like Harvin can.

The issue with Harvin is his durability. He has lots of leg problems at Florida but those could subside a little once he stops playing running back for 10-15 carries a game. To me, Harvin is a top 10 talent when healthy in this draft. He is a game changer, a Reggie Bush type.

The difference is Harvin has a set position at wide receiver and also has great hands and toughness, shown by playing the National Championship on a fractured ankle.

27. Indianapolis Colts-Peria Jerry-DT-Ole Miss

Peria Jerry is a guy that has been rising recently as well on draft boards all over. Never has Indianapolis seemed to have a very good defensive tackle and they can get one that will be there for years in Peria Jerry.

Also, Ed Johnson's recent marijuana scandal would be another reason to go with a defensive tackle here. Wide out is also an option here but I see the Colts addressing the defensive tackle position first.

28. Philadelphia Eagles (from Carolina)-Eben Britton-OT-Arizona

After having addressed their running back need with their earlier pick, Philadelphia turns to their offensive line. Tra Thomas signed with Jacksonville and Jon Runyan is not getting any younger. They can get a guy like Britton and he can come in a replace Tra Thomas in the lineup.

29. New York Giants-Kenny Britt-WR-Rutgers

This pick came down to three options, Britt, Hakeem Nicks, or Brian Robiskie. In the end I felt that it was Britt. Robiskie is just not a first rounder in my mine and Nicks put on 14 pounds between the combine and his Pro Day and also refused to run.

Britt is rising a bit and the fact he ran a 4.47 40-yard dash at 6'3" helps.

30. Tennessee Titans-Evander Hood-DT-Missouri

The Titans would love to see Peria Jerry be here but if he is not, they may reach a little and take Hood. Hood was on first team All Big XII and was one of the best defensive players on Missouri last year.

After losing Albert Haynesworth to Washington, it makes sense for the Titans to replace Big Al in the middle.

31. Arizona Cardinals-Donald Brown-RB-Connecticut

Another pick to me that was really easy to make. The Cardinals need a running back and Donald Brown is there. He has been a hot prospect of late and had a great year last year at Connecticut. He may not immediately be a No. 1 option but will share carries and get some experience.

Who thought that there would be three players from the University of Connecticut drafted in the first round.

32. Pittsburgh Steelers-Alex Mack-C-California

There aren't many needs for the team from the Steel City and one may be corner after losing Bryant McFadden to Arizona. But they go with Mack who will be a nice replacement for Justin Hartwig, the leader among centers for sacks allowed.

There is debate who between Mack and Max Unger is the number one center but I believe that is Mack.

Second Round

33. Detroit Lions-James Laurinaitis-MLB-Ohio State

There are so many holes on the Detroit team but having addressed quarterback and offensive tackle, they really should turn to defense here. Laurinaitis was super productive in college but his slow 40 has hurt.

Still a great value here for a guy who most likely would have been a top 20 pick in the 2008 draft.

34. New England Patriots (from KC)-Connor Barwin-DE/OLB-Cincinnati

Connor Barwin is one of those non-stop motor guys. He would be ideal for a 3-4, just what the Patriots play and I have seen him compared to Mike Vrabel. What a perfect match.

35. St. Louis Rams-Darrius Heyward-Bey-WR-Maryland

I am really not a big Heyward-Bey fan. He never really produced in college and the fact he shoots up draft boards because he ran a 4.30 40 amazes me. Everyone knew he was fast so why does he rise up boards because he did what we expected.

Yet the Rams need a receiver and will bite for him here.

36. Cleveland Browns-LeSean McCoy-RB-Pittsburgh

Jamal Lewis is slow, there is no questioning that. So the Browns get a complement to Lewis here who has that ability to be a game changer. McCoy is durable and young, at 20 years old.

37. Seattle Seahawks-Sean Smith-CB/FS-Utah

Sean Smith is 6'4" at cornerback. There is talk that he is more of a safety and at that size you can see why. Seattle could use help at both corner and safety and Smith's versatility is useful for them.

38. Cincinnati Bengals-Robert Ayers-DE-Tennessee

Now this is interesting as Ayers has been by far the hottest prospect, with many people having him in the top 15. I looked at it and couldn't find a spot for him until here so that's where he lands. Cincinnati can really sure up their defensive line with Raji and Ayers.

39. Jacksonville Jaguars-Victor Harris-CB-Virginia Tech

Jacksonville needs help in the trenches and will consider Ron Brace or Duke Robinson but neither seems to be worth the pick here. Victor Harris was a shut-down corner in college and his slow 40 has hurt his but make no mistake, he can play.

40. Oakland Raiders-Michael Johnson-DE-Georgia Tech

Jeez, Al Davis must be drooling to see Michael Johnson here. First he gets Jeremy Maclin, the speedster in round one and now he gets the freak in Michael Johnson.

Johnson has work ethic questions and never really produced in college for all the skills and measure-ables he has. But at 6'7" with a 4.59 40, do you really think Al Davis will pass?

41. Green Bay Packers-Jamon Meredith-OT-South Carolina

Meredith is a very good offensive tackle that may be a little lower than his talent because of the amount of quality offensive tackles in the draft. Mark Tauscher is still a free agent who tore his ACL in December and Chad Clifton is 33, time to get a tackle.

42. Buffalo Bills-Jared Cook-TE-South Carolina

The Bills could use a tight end and after passing on Pettigrew in round one, they get Cook in round two. Cook is a solid receiver with very good speed that could make an impact on an offense already with Lee Evans and Terrell Owens.

43. San Francisco 49ers-Larry English-DE/OLB-Northern Illinois

Another one of those guys who fits perfectly into a 3-4 defense with his body size and ability as a pass rusher. English was a big time pass rusher in college and San Francisco really struggled with the pass rush. Larry English could sure that up the pass rush in San Francisco.

44. Miami Dolphins (from Washington)-Brian Robiskie-WR-Ohio State

The Dolphins take another guy with an NFL background. Robiskie was solid at Ohio State but never got the ball thrown to him enough to prove his talent. He will provide Chad Pennington with a nice option.

45. New York Giants (from New Orleans)-Clint Sintim-OLB-Virginia

After addressing their big need at wide out in round one, the Giants turn to another in round two. This team doesn't have many needs but some more depth at outside linebacker would be nice.

46. Houston Texans-William Moore-SS-Missouri

A guy who has plummeted since the start of his senior year, Moore is now viewed as a liability in pass coverage. The Texans have such a need though for impact defensive players that they take him to sure up run coverage and hope he improves against the pass.

47. New England Patriots (from SD)-Jarron Gilbert-DT/DE-San Jose State

I have Gilbert listed as both a defensive tackle and defensive end since he would play defensive end in the Patriots 3-4 defense. Gilbert's 4.80 40-yard dash helped him a lot and this is more a pick for depth as the Patriots don't need that much immediate help.

48. Denver Broncos-Ron Brace-DT-Boston College

Another pick here spent on defense for Denver. They got a guy to bolster the outside of their defensive line in round one now they get a guy who can anchor the center of that line in the big Brace.

49. Chicago Bears-Hakeem Nicks-WR-UNC

His stock has really taken a hit after refusing to run a 40 at his Pro Day and putting on 14 pounds since the combine. None the less, he is very talented and with the awful receivers that Chicago has for Jay Cutler right now, it would make sense to take one here.

50. Cleveland Browns (from TB)-Louis Delmas-FS-Western Michigan

Once considered a late first, early second-round pick, Delmas drops a little due to teams needs. He is still a very good safety and Cleveland could use a lot of help on their defense.

51. Dallas Cowboys-Patrick Chung-SS-Oregon

It's no surprise that Roy Williams, the safety, is likely to get traded this offseason and if not, he will probably not play much in 2009. Chung had a great career at Oregon and would look to be the replacement for Williams, bringing a better pass coverage than Williams ever did.

52. New York Jets- Louis Murphy-WR-Florida

After not taking a wide out in round one, the Jets take one here. Their quarterback situation is very unsettled so providing whoever wins with a solid group on receivers is key, especially after releasing Laveranues Coles.

Murphy never put up huge numbers due to the offense at Florida but his potential is huge.

53. Philadelphia Eagles-Duke Robinson-OG-Oklahoma

I know the Eagles picked an offensive lineman earlier on but they could still use another and Duke Robinson is a solid pick. He is the top guard in the draft and was part of a line that protected the Heisman winner Sam Bradford wonderfully last year.

54. Minnesota Vikings-Alphonso Smith-CB-Wake Forest

Alphonso Smith may be a little on the short side a five foot nine but he can cover. Smith along with Aaron Curry were the stars of the Wake Forest defense and Minnesota gets a guy that can play the side opposite Antoine Winfield.

55. Atlanta Falcons-Sen'Derrick Marks-DT-Auburn

Marks is another one of those guys that if he can put it all together, he will be very good. He has tons of talent and Atlanta has a big time lack of depth at defensive tackle so Marks can help sure that up.

56. Miami Dolphins-D.J. Moore-CB-Vanderbilt

D.J. Moore was by far the best player on Vanderbilt last year and was an impact player in the return game as well. He can return kicks for Miami as well as provide some depth in the defensive backfield.

57. Baltimore Ravens-Gerald Cadogan-OT-Penn State

Wow, there are a ton of very quality offensive tackles in this draft. Cadogan is not the most physically imposing guy that ever play the position but he is solid and could be a big part of a line to protect Joe Flacco.

58. New England Patriots-Max Unger-C-Oregon

First off, Unger drops to here due to no one needing a center but he is certainly a fringe first round, early second round talent. Second, the Patriots really just take him for depth and could even move him to guard.

Third, the rich keep getting richer. Seriously, do the Patriots have enough picks already. They have had four picks now, three in the second round and in the first three rounds total they have six picks. This is why I hate the Patriots.

59. Carolina Panthers-Fili Moala-DT-USC

The Panthers have missed the presence of Kris Jenkins in the middle and will try to recreate that with Moala. Moala may not be as big but he is good, he did come from Pete Carroll's USC who churns out NFL players. Moala was the number one overall pick in Todd McShay's 2009 draft last April so there is something to work with.

60. New York Giants-Shonn Greene-RB-Iowa

The Giants don't have many needs and can afford to take a running back here. Greene has a spectacular senior year at Iowa and may never be a No. 1 option at running back, but he can still be a good platoon back. Greene can come in a replace Derrick Ward in the backfield.

61. Indianapolis Colts-Juaquin Iglesias-WR-Oklahoma

The Colts released Marvin Harrison and could use a number three wide receiver. With Anthony Gonzalez now moving into the No. 2 wide receiver position it open up the slot receiver spot for Iglesias.

62. Tennessee Titans-Jairus Byrd-CB-Oregon

Jairus Byrd has tons of versatility, with the ability to play most of the positions in the defensive backfield. Nick Harper is 34 years old and the Titans could use some depth in the secondary.

63. Arizona Cardinals-Jonathan Luigs-C-Arkansas

When Lyle Sendlein is your starting center, you could use an upgrade. Luigs won the award for the nation's top center two years ago in his junior season. Unfortunately for him, he is in the same draft as Alex Mack and Max Unger.

64. Pittsburgh Steelers-Coye Francis-CB-San Jose State

The Steelers don't have much to fix on their team but after losing Bryant McFadden they could use some depth at corner. Francis has some off the field and character issues but he definitely has tons of talent.

Ranking the Best Players at Each Position in the AL East

Kevin — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 12:35:14 -0400

So the BCS has been going on in College Football for 11 years now and I thought that I would look back through all the years and come up with a list of the top 50 players from the era. My hope is that this list will generate a lot of discussion about my picks and get people talking about something pointless like another dumb Lane Kiffin quote or why Southern Memphis State College is going to win some conference. So here is the first part numbers 50-26, soon to be followed by the top 25. Feel free to comment and disagree but I always like it when arguments are well constructed with some facts to support a comment. I know opinions always will decided these types of things but stats and facts need to also be included to make a good list.

Begin Slideshow

Fred Taylor: It's Hard To Say Goodbye, but Sometimes It's for the Best

Kevin — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 15:07:22 -0500

I grew up a Jaguars fan. I lived in New Jersey, 30 minutes from the Meadowlands, yet no one in my family was a Giants or Jets fan. When I was young we visited Florida (it was around 1995), and I became attached to this new franchise, the Jacksonville Jaguars. I have been a fan ever since.

Fred Taylor is arguably the greatest Jaguar of all time, and along with Mark Brunell, Jimmy Smith, Keenan McCardell, Kyle Brady, Tony Boselli, Tony Brackens, and Donovan Darius, brought the Jaguars to the elite of the league only a few years after expansion.

None of those players remain with the Jaguars, but they are all held in the highest regard by Jaguars fans. Taylor should be remembered the same way, following his release by the Jaguars.

It doesn't matter whether or not it is true, as reported, that he would have taken a pay cut and yet they still released him. It was a move by an organization that is rebuilding.

It is hard for me and every Jaguars fan to have to watch Freddy T run the ball for another team, but as Vic Ketchman, the Jaguars.com Blogger, writes, "I'ts a young man's game."

I will always appreciate everything that Fred did for this team and will never forget him. It is tough to see him go, but it was neccessary to become younger and rebuild.

But first I would like to thank Freddy T for everything—for bringing this franchise from nothing to something.

There were always times when fans got on you for being injured, but you kept getting healthy and coming back. And you finished off in your last few years being healthy and contributing in the 2007-2008 season to a team that was one of the best Jaguars teams in history.

Fred rushed for 11,271 yards and 63 touchdowns on 2,428 carries. All this was accomplished over 11 seasons with the franchise.

His 11,271 yards are 16th all-time, yet he has made only one Pro Bowl, which last year when he replaced an injured Willie Parker. His 4.6 yards-per-carry average are fifth all-time behind greats Jim Brown, Barry Sanders, O.J. Simpson, and Tiki Barber.

Nothing would make me happier than to see him go to a team in a big city with a bigger fanbase, have a huge year, and make his first fan voted Pro Bowl. But thank you Fred for everything.

It is tough to move on and you are a class-act for understanding what needed to be done to rebuild this franchise to what is was when you were drafted by it.

Now onto why the Jaguars need to rebuild.

They don't need to go and overspend in free agency; they need to use the draft.

First, Gene Smith made an awesome move last week in releasing cornerback Drayton Florence and wide receiver Jerry Porter. Both were rush decisions last offseason in order to try to add two veteran presences to a team that almost made the Super Bowl the year before.

Then he made the hardest decision: letting go of fan favorite Fred Taylor. It was necessary because Maurice Jones-Drew is the future and needs to be the feature back.

Greg Jones should also get some carries, as well as the second year back out of USC, Chauncey Washington. But the Jaguars need to rebuild.

They let Reggie Williams walk in free agency: smart move. Now they need to let Khalif Barnes and Mike Peterson walk.

Barnes doesn't want to be in Jacksonville and when you are rebuilding you can't have guys that don't want to be here. Peterson had a feud with Coach Jack Del Rio and when trying to rebuild with young players the last thing you need is a veteran leader disagreeing with the coach.

This team has a solid core that performed as well as they could have this past year. That core consists of David Garrard, Maurice Jones-Drew, Matt Jones, John Henderson, Darryl Smith, Rashean Mathis, Brian Williams, and Josh Scobee. That is a solid core of players, all of whom had their off years stemming from the poor performance of the other guys around them.

Guys like Greg Jones, Mike Walker, Marcedes Lewis, Derrick Harvey, Quentin Groves, Justin Durant, and Reggie Nelson have the potential to help the Jags next season.

Durant had a very good year, but even more will be expected with Peterson gone. Nelson regressed and part of that was due to the lack of a pass rush. Harvey and Groves should benefit from an offseason of NFL Conditioning. Lewis had a solid year but still needs to improve. Jones didn't rush much last year and will be counted on this year.

Then there is Walker, who has all the talent but can't stay healthy. If he stays healthy, he could be the receiver the Jaguars have lacked.

Offensive guards Vince Manuwai and Maurice Williams were both were injured last year, which hurt the team. However, they should be back to help support a poor line. Hopefully their presence will help out right tackle Tony Pashos.

With the draft upcoming, the No. 8 pick has many options. The team can trade back and get more draft picks, which could be good in a rebuilding stage, or they could stay and pick.

If they stay the Jags have options like tackles Eugene Monroe, Michael Oher, Andre Smith, and Jason Smith; linebackers Rey Maualuga, Aaron Curry, and James Laurinaitis; cornerback Malcolm Jenkins; or wide receiver Michael Crabtree.

There may be more options, but all those guys could help the Jaguars.

As you can see, the Jags have a solid core and some players that, if they progress correctly, could make this team an interesting one next season.

No doubt it should be interesting to see how the offseason and draft play out. But thank you, Fred. Fans shouldn't be discouraged by his release. Sometimes things like this are necessary for the good of the team, like it or not.

A Look Back at CFB's 2005 Recruiting Class: Top Five Players at Each Position

Kevin — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 16:01:05 -0500

Now that the 2005 recruiting class has graduated, I felt it was time to look back on all the players in that class and rank the Top Five players at each position, as well as the biggest bust. The rankings and star ratings that I used were from Rivals, as I feel it is pretty credible and much easier to navigate.

So here I go; I am open to all comments and arguments because in a list like this there will always be arguments. If I don't write my reasoning for putting a player somewhere, call me out in the comments and I will provide you with my thought process.

Also, if you guys enjoy this, I am working on doing this for the 2004, 2003, and 2002 classes, as that is all they have on Rivals. Enjoy.

Quarterbacks

Bust: Ryan Perrilloux, 5*, LSU—No questions asked; had so much talent but wasted it.

5: Zac Robinson, 3*, Oklahoma State—Great year last year, not many other options.

4: Willie Tuitama, 4*, Arizona—Very underrated; never was a massive superstar but solid.

3: Mark Sanchez, 5*, USC—One good year doesn't mean he deserves the top spot.

2: Chase Daniel, 3*, Missouri—Tough senior year; great career though.

1: Colt McCoy, 3*, Texas—Boy, was he underrated coming into college.

Running Backs

Bust: Jason Gwaltney, 5*, West Virginia—Did nothing except low numbers in one year.

5B: Donald Brown, 3*, Connecticut—3,800 yards and 33 TDs in three years.

5A: Jamaal Charles, 4*, Texas—3,328 yards in three years and a big part of Texas Football.

4: James Davis, 4*, Clemson—All right senior year, but 3,881 yards rushing for career.

3: Javon Ringer, 3*, Michigan State—4,398 yards over career. Wow.

2: Darren McFadden, 5*, Arkansas—Going to catch heat for this; 4,590 yards in three years.

1: Ray Rice, 3*, Rutgers—4,926 yards in only three years at Rutgers; turned around the program at Rutgers with Brian Leonard.

Wide Receiver

Bust: Fred Rouse, 5*, Florida State—Left FSU, went to UNLV, left there.

5: Mohamed Massaquoi, 4*, Georgia—Mainstay on UGA for four years.

4: Darrius Heyward-Bey, 4*, Maryland—Such an all-around threat.

3: Malcolm Kelly, 4*, Oklahoma—Only played three years, but had 2,285 yards.

2: DeSean Jackson, 5*, California—Yes, he was a great PR, but he still was a great WR.

1: Mario Manningham, 4*, Michigan—He had 2,310 yards and 27 TDs, about 100 yards less than Jackson, but he also had 25+ fewer catches.

Tight End

Bust: Dajleon Farr, 4*, Miami Fl.—Thought he was going to follow Jeremy Shockey and Kellen Winslow.

5: Garrett Graham, 3*, Wisconsin—Very solid; probably better than Travis Beckum.

4: Jermichael Finley, 4*, Texas—Solid three-year career at Texas.

3: Ed Dickson, 3*, Oregon—Another solid, not spectacular TE.

2: Martellus Bennett, 5*, Texas A&M—Had a great career at A&M.

1: Chase Coffman, 3*, Missouri—Is there any question? Did you see that hurdle? TEs aren't supposed to be able to do that.

Offensive Line

Bust: Reggie Youngblood, 5*, Miami Fl.—Played but hasn't lived up to 5* hype.

10: Jon Cooper, 4*, Oklahoma—Big part of OU line that protected the Heisman winner.

9: Ed Wang, 3*, Virginia Tech—Still at VA Tech; should get drafted in 2010.

8: Dan Doering, 5*, Iowa—Been solid for Iowa.

7: Josh McNeil, 4*, Tennessee—One of the top three centers in CFB next year.

6: Mike Johnson, 4*, Alabama—Along with Andre Smith, anchored 'Bama left side.

5: Alex Boone, 5*, Ohio State—Been a stalwart on OSU's line.

4: Sergio Render, 3*, Virginia Tech—Will be top OG in 2010 draft.

3: Ciron Black, 3*, LSU—Big load who is one of the top tackles for next year.

2: Duke Robinson, 4*, Oklahoma—Top OG in 2009 draft.

1: Eugene Monroe, 5*, Virginia—Top 10 pick in 2009 draft and surely lived up to hype.

Defensive End—Very unimpressive DEs and DTs

Bust: Melvin Alaeze, 5*, Maryland—Did nothing at Maryland, now in jail.

5: Kyle Moore, 4*, USC—Solid but never spectacular.

4: Jeffrey Fitzgerald, 3*, Virginia—Has had two good years but been injured as well.

3: Everette Brown, 4*, Florida State—Only great year was 2009.

2: Matt Shaughnessy, 3*, Wisconsin—Not great sack numbers but 134 tackles.

1: Nick Reed, 4*, Oregon—143 tackles, 48.5 tackles for a loss, and 28.5 sacks; pretty good compared to the other options.

Defensive Tackle

Bust: Callahan Bright, 5*, Florida State—Another bust from FSU; most of their class was.

5: Evander Hood, 3*, Missouri—137 tackles in four years; not bad.

4: Terrance Taylor, 4*, Michigan—Not great sack numbers but solid for Michigan.

3: Roy Miller, 4*, Texas—Never put up numbers expected but a big part of UT defense.

2: Vince Oghobaase, 4*, Duke—Very underrated and underappreciated player.

1: Ndamukong Suh, 4*, Nebraska—129 tackles, 29.5 tackles for a loss, and 12 sacks in three years, and he still has his senior year to add onto that.

Linebackers

Bust: Tray Blackmon, 5*, Auburn—Just didn't ever justify the 5* hype.

10: Curtis Lofton, 4*, Oklahoma—One great year at OU.

9: Brit Miller, 3*, Illinois—Overshadowed in 2008 by J Leman; had a big year in 2009.

8: Roddrick Muckelroy, 3*, Texas—Had 171 tackles for career.

7: Zack Follett, 4*, California—212 tackles for career as well as terrorizing passers.

6: Brock Christopher, 3*, Missouri—Sean Weatherspoon overshadowed; 284 tackles for career.

5: Brian Cushing, 4*, USC—Rose Bowl MVP in sophomore season; part of great D in 2008.

4: Rico McCoy, 4*, Tennessee—With Eric Berry was only bright spot for Tennessee in 2008.

3: Sean Lee, 3*, Penn State—Injured in 2008; will hope to recover big in 2009.

2: James Laurinaitis, 3*, Ohio State—So underrated coming in; 366 tackles over four years.

1: Rey Maualuga, 5*, USC—May have fewer tackles than Laurinaitis (236) but seems to really carry that team and strike more fear into opponents. Will say I could have gone either way on this one.

Cornerbacks

Bust: Justin King, 5*, Penn State—Left after junior year but was never a great player.

5: Derek Pegues, 4*, Mississippi State—11 interceptions and 132 tackles for career.

4: Syd'Quan Thompson, 4*, California—Very good cover corner for Cal.

3: Walter Thurmond, 3*, Oregon—Tremendous CB and had 11 interceptions.

2: Victor "Macho" Harris, 5*, Virginia Tech—Lockdown corner with 15 picks.

1: Malcolm Jenkins, 3*, Ohio State—Another underrated prospect in the Ohio State class; teams just stayed away from him in 2008.

Safeties

Bust: Jamario O'Neal, 4*, Ohio State—Could never crack rotation at Ohio State.

5: Kevin Ellison, 3*, USC—Recruited as LB but was overshadowed a bit by Taylor Mays.

4: Otis Wiley, 3*, Michigan State—Great FS; had eight picks over career.

3: Quinton Andrews, 3*, West Virginia—Anchored the WVU defense.

2: Kenny Phillips, 5*, Miami Fl.—Next of the great safeties from U; first round pick.

1: Nic Harris, 4*, Oklahoma—Heart of Oklahoma defense in 2008; great safety who had 217 tackles and seven interceptions for career.

Hope you guys enjoyed the list; feel free to comment.

The Top 25 College Football Players for 2009

Kevin — Sun, 18 Jan 2009 20:41:06 -0500

So everyone has declared for the draft and now it is time to examine the Top 25 players returning for College Football in the 2009 season. There are many great players returning. All 3 Heisman candidates return as do many of the great defensive players. Here is my take on the Top 25, feel free to voice your opinions.

Begin Slideshow

Pre-Bowl Top 10 College Football Teams for 2009

Kevin — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 15:52:58 -0500

Here is the deal: I have decided to put out a very, very, very early outlook on the Top 25 for the 2009 season, before the bowl games. But I am only going to do the Top 10 right now, as that will be much easier.

As you will notice, all underclassmen will be factored into the ranking. I will be writing another one after all underclassmen have declared for the draft and the recruits have signed letters of intent. Each team's rank will have key players returning, as well as a short reasoning for why they are ranked where they are.

So here is the very, very early Top 10 for 2009 with all underclassmen returning.

1. Florida Gators

Key Players: QB Tim Tebow (Sr), RBs Jeffrey Demps (So) and Chris Rainey (Rs So), WR Percy Harvin (Sr), TE Aaron Hernandez (Jr), OLs Mike and Maurkice Pouncey (So), DEs Jermaine Cunningham (Sr) and Carlos Dunlap (Jr), MLB Brandon Spikes (Sr), CBs Joe Haden (Jr) and Janoris Jenkins (So), safeties Major Wright (So) and Ahmad Black (Rs So)

If you think the Florida Gators are good this year, just think how good they will be next year. This team, barring the losses of Tebow, Harvin, and Spikes, will return 19 of its 22 starters from a team that won the SEC title and is playing in the NC. With Spikes returning, this team returns all their starters on a defense rated one of the best in the nation. This team looks downright scary for next year.

2. Oklahoma Sooners

Key Players: QB Sam Bradford (Rs Jr), RBs DeMarco Murray (Jr) and Chris Brown (Sr), WR Ryan Broyles (Rs So), TE Jermaine Gresham (Sr), OT Trent Williams (Sr), DEs Auston English (Sr) and Jeremy Beal (Jr), DT Gerald McCoy (Jr), OLBs Keenan Clayton (Sr) and Travis Lewis (Sr), MLB Ryan Reynolds (Sr), CBs Brian Jackson (Sr) and Dominique Franks (Jr)

This team returns the Heisman Trophy winner, two 1,000-yard rushers, one of the best TEs in the country, and a D that returns nine starters and can only get better. Only question is whether losing four of the five starters on OL will hurt.

3. Alabama Crimson Tide

Key Players: RBs Glen Coffee (Sr) and Mark Ingram (So), WR Julio Jones (So), OT Andre Smith (Sr), OG Mike Johnson (Sr), NT Terrance Cody (Sr), OLB Brandon Fanney (Sr), MLBs Rolando McClain (Jr) and Donta' Hightower (So), CBs Javier Arenas (Sr) and Kareem Jackson (Jr)

Finding a QB is a must, but with two great RBs and a stud like Jones at WR, the QB will have to be as good as JPW. The defense, on the other hand, was one of the best in the nation, and after only losing one starter, it figures to be up there again.

4. Texas Longhorns

Key Players: QB Colt McCoy (Rs Sr), FB Cody Johnson (So), TE Blaine Irby (Jr), OT Adam Ulatoski (Sr), C Chris Hall (Sr), OLBs Sergio Kindle (Sr) and Roddrick Muckelroy (Sr), CB Deon Beasley (Sr), S Earl Thomas (So), K Hunter Lawrence (Sr)

While returning 14 starters, there are still two question marks going into the season. Can they find a solid option at RB so McCoy does not have to run? And can they replace Cosby and Shipley at WR? I have just read, though, that Shipley is applying for a sixth year of eligibility, and if granted, this could really help this team.

5. Ohio State Buckeyes

Key Players: QB Terrelle Pryor (So), RB Chris Wells (Sr), WR Brian Hartline (Sr), OG Jim Cordle (Sr), C Michael Brewster (So), DEs Lawrence Wilson (Sr) and Thad Gibson (Jr), DT Cameron Heyward (Jr), OLB Ross Homan (Jr), Safeties Kurt Coleman (Sr) and Anderson Russell (Sr)

The Buckeyes will have their second year of Pryor, which is scary enough. But if Beanie returns, that could be even better for that offense. Only question is how they replace two first round picks, Jenkins and Laurinaitis, and a first day pick, Freeman.

6. USC Trojans

Key Players: QB Mark Sanchez (Sr), RBs C.J. Gable (Rs Jr), Joe McKnight (Jr), and Stafon Johnson (Sr), FB Stanley Havili (Jr), WRs Ronald Johnson (Jr) and Damien Williams (Jr), OT Charles Brown (Sr), C Kristofer O'Dowd (Jr), DE Everson Griffen (Jr), CB Shareece Wright (Jr), FS Taylor Mays (Sr)

The Trojans offense is going to be very good, as they return nine starters, but on defense, only two return. But there is so much talent built up at USC that the defense shouldn't miss a beat. We will have to wait and see.

7.Georgia Bulldogs

Key Players: QB Matthew Stafford (Sr), RB Knowshon Moreno (Rs Jr), WR A.J. Green (So), OTs Clint Boling (Jr) and Trinton Sturdivant (Rs So), OG Chris Davis (Jr), DTs Jeff Owens (Sr) and Geno Atkins (Sr), OLB Rennie Curran (Jr), MLB Darryl Gamble (Jr), CBs Prince Miller (Sr) and Asher Allen (Sr), FS Reshad Jones (Jr)

If both Stafford and Moreno stay, this team will be very highly ranked. With a ton of starters returning on both sides, including the whole offensive line, this team looks to be a contender as long as Stafford and Moreno come back.

8. Oklahoma State Cowboys

Key Players: QB Zac Robinson (Sr), RBs Kendall Hunter (Jr) and Keith Toston (Sr), WR Dez Bryant (Jr), OT Russell Okung (Sr), DE Ugo Chinasa (Jr), OLBs Andrew Sexton (Sr) and Patrick Lavine (Sr), MLB Orie Lemon (Sr), CB Perrish Cox (Sr)

Oklahoma State had a huge 2008, and with stars like Robinson, Hunter, and Bryant returning to lead the offense, expect much of the same. Also, the LB corps of Sexton, Lavine, and Lemon is one of the best in the nation.

9. Penn State Nittany Lions

Key Players: QB Daryll Clark (Rs Sr), RB Evan Royster (Jr), TE Mickey Shuler (Sr), OG Stefen Wisniewski (Jr), DEs Aaron Maybin (Jr) and Maurice Evans (Sr), DT Jared Odrick (Sr), OLB Navorro Bowman (Jr), MLB Sean Lee (Rs Sr), CB A.J. Wallace (Sr)

Penn State has a very, very solid front seven returning, but the secondary is a huge question mark. Also, on offense, how they replace Butler, Williams, and Norwood at WR will determine how their season goes.

10. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets

Key Players: QB Josh Nesbitt (Jr), RBs Jonathan Dwyer (Jr) and Roddy Jones (So), WR Demaryius Thomas (Jr), OG Cord Howard (Sr), DE Derrick Morgan (Jr), OLB Sedric Griffin (Sr), MLB Kyle Jackson (So), CB Rashaas Reid (So), Safeties Morgan Burnett (Jr) and Cooper Taylor (So)

Paul Johnson's Yellow Jackets surprised everyone in 2008, but don't expect much of the same in 2009. They will be one of the favorites to win the ACC in 2009 due to their running attack, which returns the top three leading rushers. The D returns eight starters also.

Teams Just Missing the Top 10

Pittsburgh: RB LeSean McCoy (Rs Jr) and WR Oderick Turner (Sr)

Virginia Tech: QB Tyrod Taylor (Jr), OG Sergio Render (Sr), DE Jason Worilds (Jr) and FS Kam Chancellor (Sr)

Texas Tech: WR Michael Crabtree (Rs Jr), DE Brandon Williams (Sr), and CB Jamar Wall (Sr)

LSU: RB Charles Scott (Sr), WR Brandon LaFell (Sr), OT Ciron Black (Sr), DE Rahim Alem (Sr) and DT Ricky Jean-Francois (Sr)