AJ McCarron and the Top College Football Breakout Candidates for 2012

AJ McCarron played a great game against LSU in the 2012 BCS National Championship Game, earning MVP honors.

Even though he didn't score a touchdown, he led Alabama into field goal range seven times. He completed 23 of his 34 passes for 234 yards and didn't turn the ball over.

Heading into next season, he's got the momentum going to improve in a big way.

He could have a breakout year, along with some other notable players.

Let's take a look at some players who could have breakout seasons in 2012.

William Gholston, DE, Michigan State

As a sophomore, Gholston amassed five sacks and 13 tackles for a loss.

But, his attitude issues got in the way of his talent sometimes. He played dirty at times, including the time he tried to rip Denard Robinson's head off.

If he can play under control in 2012, he could lead the Big Ten in sacks.

Robert Woods, WR, USC

Woods had a fantastic 2011 season, catching 111 passes for 1,292 yards and 15 touchdowns.

But, since he plays for a USC team that was banned from postseason play, he didn't get much attention outside the west coast.

By the end of 2012, everyone will know his name. Don't be surprised if Woods wins the Biletnikoff Award for best receiver in the country next season.

Matt Barkley is back and will be looking to Woods to be his go-to guy.

Braxton Miller, QB, Ohio State

If Urban Meyer can use Miller as a faster version of Tim Tebow, the Buckeyes will be incredibly dangerous in 2012.

Miller started several games in 2011 as a true freshman and did pretty well, throwing 13 touchdowns and only four interceptions.

If he improves in 2012, the Buckeyes will be in good shape for a run at a Big Ten title.

Nathan Scheelhaase, QB, Illinois

Scheelhaase and the Illini got off to a hot start in 2011, winning their first six games.

Then, the wheels fell off, losing their next six games before salvaging a bowl game victory over UCLA.

Head coach Ron Zook lost his job because of the late-season collapse, with Toledo's Tim Beckman replacing him.

If Beckman figures out how to use Scheelhaase's dual-threat ability effectively, the Illini could improve a lot in 2012.

EJ Manuel, QB, Florida State

Florida State had a dismal season despite being picked by many to be in the top five at season's end.

But, this young team gained some valuable experience and will be returning several key starters in 2012.

Manuel, a junior in 2011, will need to step up his game as a senior.

But, he certainly has the talent to improve upon his 2,666-yard, 18 touchdown performance in 2011.

Bryn Renner, QB, North Carolina

Considering the mess that was North Carolina football in 2011, Renner had a great year.

He threw for 3,086 yards, 26 touchdowns and 13 interceptions.

With Larry Fedora coming in to right the ship, Renner should improve by leaps and bounds in 2012.

Unfortunately for Renner, he'll have to do it without leading receiver Dwight Jones, who was a senior in 2011.

However, Renner has the tools to eclipse 4,000 yards and 30 touchdowns in 2012.

James Franklin, QB, Missouri

Franklin is reminding Mizzou fans of Brad Smith with his dual-threat ability.

In 2011 Franklin threw for 2,865 yards and 21 touchdowns and ran for 981 yards and 15 touchdowns.

He needs to work a lot this offseason on his passing and timing with receivers, but he could theoretically throw for 3,500 yards and run for 1,200 yards in 2012.

That's going to be tough for SEC East defenses to stop.

De'Anthony Thomas, RB, Oregon Ducks

Thomas did his best Percy Harvin impression in 2011, running for 595 yards and seven touchdowns and catching 46 passes for 605 yards and nine touchdowns as a true freshman.

And, now that LaMichael James is off to the NFL, he'll have even more opportunities to succeed in 2012.

He'll need to make sure he works on holding onto the football this offseason though, as his fumble problem hurt the Ducks in 2011.

Still, the blazing fast back should be a lot of fun to watch in 2012.

AJ McCarron, QB, Alabama

McCarron did everything he needed to do for the Crimson Tide this season.

His job was to not make mistakes and let Trent Richardson carry the offensive load, which is exactly what he did.

His 2,634 passing yards, 16 touchdowns and five interceptions were just what the Tide needed en route to a national championship.

But, if Richardson goes to the NFL after this season, McCarron will need to step up his game in 2012.

Every indication is showing that he'll have no problem taking the next step as a college quarterback.