College Football Recruiting: The Best Class from Every FBS Team in Last 5 Years

Recruiting is the key to winning college football games.

That's why the SEC has dominated recently.

The recruiting classes at SEC programs are absolutely ridiculous in their level of talent.

This list runs down every FBS team, from the Sun Belt to the aforementioned SEC, picking out the best recruiting class at each school over the past five years.

In anticipation of National Signing Day in two weeks, commits from this season have been included, so the classes range from 2008-2012.

The two main categories used for grading were success on the field and pre-signing day grades.

FAU Owls

Best Class: 2012

Commits: 16

The Owls never had a recruit rated higher than two stars commit to the program before the 2011 class.

That year, they had one 3-star recruit.

The 2012 class doubled that number, as the Owls have commitments from RB T.J. Moon and DE Shalom Ogbonda.

After a season which saw FAU finish 1-11, it could use some help.

Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders

Best Class: 2011

Commits: 22

The Raiders signed five 3-star recruits and six 2-star recruits in their class of 2011.

These guys will have a chance to make an impact in a big way and try to turn this thing around in 2012.

The Blue Raiders have enjoyed some modicum of success in the Sun Belt, including a 10-win season in 2009.

Guys like Alexandro Antoine and Jared Singletary are going to have to step up to take them back to that level of success.

Troy Trojans

Best Class: 2012

Commits: 27

The Trojans have hauled in a mess of recruits thus far, and signing day is still not on the immediate horizon.

This class is led by QB Brandon Silvers, from Gulf Shores, Ala., and will look to step in and help get the Trojans back on track to finish near the top of the conference.

The Trojans have had at least eight wins every season since 2006...except last year.

This class is the highest-ranked group in school history and will be part of a Trojan resurgence, if there is one.

ULM Warhawks

Best Class: 2011

Commits: 21

ULM has not had a winning season in a very long time.

Recruiting is difficult, and the Sun Belt has had some tough teams in recent seasons.

This class had only one player rated higher than two stars, WR Justin Ginyard, who earned himself three.

That said, the Warhawks do not sign highly rated recruits very often, so this is no abnormality.

North Texas Mean Green

Best Class: 2011

Commits: 24

Freddie Warner, Kerry Swarn and Chad Polk highlighted this class, which is easily the best in the past five years for UNT.

The 2012 class is shaping up to beat last season's, but we will not know for sure until after National Signing Day.

FIU Golden Panthers

Best Class: 2008

Commits: 24

The Panthers have had some higher-rated classes, but none of them included the excellent talent that is T.Y. Hilton.

Hilton was only given a grade of 40 by ESPN but emerged as one of the most dynamic wide receiver/kick returners in the country over the course of his career.

ULL Ragin' Cajuns

Best Class: 2012

Commits: 20

Thus far, 2012 has been kind to the Ragin' Cajuns.

They have commits from six 3-star recruits already, including standout OLB Tyren Alexander.

WKU Hilltoppers

Best Class: 2008

Commits: 16

Quarterback Kawaun Jakes was a part of only the second recruiting class for the Hilltoppers as an FBS team.

He then helped lead them to their best season in 2011 with a 7-1 conference record.

The 2012 class looks solid for a Sun Belt squad, but without Jakes they would not have been so successful this season.

Arkansas State Red Wolves

Best Class: 2010

Commits: 27

Hugh Freeze had a great time at Arkansas State, leading it to the Sun Belt conference title in 2011.

The best class for the Red Wolves earned that distinction due to the name of one of the players that signed:

Sir Gregory Thornton.

That's right—how could you possibly pick any other class?

Idaho Vandals

Best Class: 2011

Commits: 23

It's tough to recruit in the state of Idaho if your program does not have a blue field.

Just ask the Vandals.

RB Cameron McKernan is the highest-rated recruit the Vandals have pulled in for some time.

He is a 3-star recruit.

With Boise State becoming a part of a BCS conference in the near future, it will be difficult for Idaho to be the premier recruiting program in the state.

New Mexico State Aggies

Best Class: 2011

Commits: 23

Look, New Mexico is home to two of the worst teams in the FBS.

They are so bad that it's become an annual tradition to bet on which team will have the worse record.

Many times, that has been these Aggies.

Their recruiting efforts have not even been mildly successful, and this class was simply the best of a bad lot.

Hawaii Warriors

Best Class: 2010

Commits: 26

Hawaii has not been the same since June Jones departed for the greener pastures of SMU.

This class, while not elite, featured four 3-star recruits and several 2-star guys.

Fresno State Bulldogs

Best Class: 2009

Commits: 17

2009 was a good year for recruiting at Fresno State.

The Bulldogs offense revolved around running back Robbie Rouse and quarterback Derek Carr in 2011 and will again next season.

Both of these guys were part of that class.

San Jose State Spartans

Best Class: 2010

Commits: 27

The Spartans are slowly trying to work their way to respectability under coach Mike MacIntyre.

While he did not recruit all of the guys that committed in 2010, he was instrumental in bringing many of them to the program and has helped them go from a 1-12 team to a 5-7 squad in 2011.

The members of this class are primed for a big leap forward in 2012.

Nevada Wolf Pack

Best Class: 2011

Commits: 27

Chris Ault knows what he is doing.

His 2011 class included five 3-star recruits, including safety Jeffrey Lark and DT Rykeem Yates.

The Wolf Pack always seem to have an effective offense, but these guys will help shore up a defense that is questionable at times.

Utah State Aggies

Best Class: 2011

Commits: 30

It was a big class and turned up the Aggies' big star of 2011, quarterback Chuck Keeton.

Before he went out with a serious neck injury late in the season, Keeton had tossed 11 touchdowns and rushed for four more and had thrown only two picks.

La. Tech Bulldogs

Best Class: 2010

Commits: 20

The Bulldogs pulled in six 3-star recruits in this class, their best of the past five seasons.

Three of those players are currently starters for La. Tech and will likely see more starts in 2012.

Central Michigan Chippewas

Best Class: 2012

Commits: 21

This year's class is shaping up quite nicely for the Chippewas.

They have received verbals from four 3-star recruits, including DE Lance Sanders and S Jordan Fields.

Life has been rough for the program recently; these guys will be key to turning around that trend.

Akron Zips

Best Class: 2011

Commits: 24

The Zips pulled in 10 recruits with a grade of 70 or better in this class.

The talent pool in-state is deep, and even as a "non-AQ" the Zips have got to get better at getting guys to commit.

Eastern Michigan Eagles

Best Class: 2009

Commits: 23

This class included seven recruits with grades of higher than 70, including quarterback Devontae Payne.

Of course, Ben Axon left, transferring to Western Kentucky, but Payne had a key part in the Eagles' game plan in each of his seasons with the team.

Eventually, he transferred as well.

Buffalo Bulls

Best Class: 2011

Commits: 21 

The Bulls have fallen apart after the departure of Turner Gill to coach at Kansas.

The 2011 class was a step toward turning things around.

Eight recruits with a grade of 71 or higher joined Buffalo, including standout tight end Matt Weiser and defensive end Brandon Tammaro.

Ball State Cardinals

Best Class: 2010

Commits: 21

The Cardinals are not exactly a force in the MAC but managed a decent 6-6 record in 2011.

The class in the year prior to that had much to do with that.

DE Anthony Stryffeler looks to have tons of potential.

Miami (OH) RedHawks

Best Class: 2009

Commits: 25

When quarterback Zac Dysert came back from injury this season to play, it left the RedHawks with a quarterback quandary.

Austin Boucher, part of the 2009 class, stepped in and filled the hole admirably in Dysert's absence.

Miami's leading rusher in 2011, Erik Finklea, was also part of that class.

Western Michigan Broncos

Best Class: 2008

Commits: 25

Jordan White is the best player to have taken the field for WMU in quite some time.

He seemed to make bigger plays in every game he played in 2011 and gave us the best highlight of his season in the Broncos' bowl game.

Because he was a part of this class, it receives my vote as the best in recent memory.

Bowling Green Falcons

Best Class: 2011

Commits: 22

Bowling Green has not been known as a powerhouse in the college football universe.

Part of that is due to recruiting.

The class of 2011 was excellent by BGSU standards, boasting 12 recruits with grades higher than 70.

This included wide receiver Herve Coby, who has the potential to become one of the most explosive players in the MAC.

Toledo Rockets

Best Class: 2011

Commits: 27

Defensive end Andre Sturdivant was the only 4-star recruit landed by a MAC school in 2011, and should provide plenty of highlights for Toledo over the course of his career.

Kent State Golden Flashes

Best Class: 2010

Commits: 22

This class included five 3-star recruits.

The Golden Flashes have not made a ton of noise on the recruiting trail in some time, but this class was pretty solid.

NIU Huskies

Best Class: 2008

Commits: 13

Northern Illinois' 2007 class included Chandler Harnish, one of the best quarterbacks in NIU history.

But that was too far in the past for our purposes.

The 2008 class, while small, included running back Me'co Brown and featured several guys who would become key components in the Huskies' 2011 MAC title run.

Temple Owls

Best Class: 2009

Commits: 28

Some of the time, ranking players coming out of high school is bogus, as evidenced by Bernard Pierce.

The Owls' star running back was given only a grade of 40 coming out of Glen Mills Schools but wound up as one of the nation's top running backs in 2011.

He was part of that 2009 class.

Ohio Bobcats

Best Class: 2009

Commits: 22

Offensive lineman Jon Lechner was part of this class, as was the man he protects, Tyler Tettleton.

Tettleton tossed 28 touchdowns and threw for 3,306 yards in 2011, while rushing for nine scores.

He could take the Bobcats back to the MAC title game in 2012 and will be an integral part of their success for the next few years.

Tulane Green Wave

Best Class: 2009

Commits: 26

This class included tight end Brock Sanders and offensive tackle Lawrence Abrams, along with nine other recruits with a grade of 70-plus.

Memphis Tigers

Best Class: 2011

Commits: 29

We all know Memphis sucks.

It is like the Houston Astros of college football without the horrifying retro uniforms.

But one class has to be the best.

This one featured three guys with grades of 78: Terry Redden, Artaves Gibson and Jermaine Johnson.

UTEP Miners

Best Class: 2009

Commits: 29

UTEP is one of those squads that is perennially at the bottom of one of the "lesser" conferences.

When your best recruiting class of the last half-decade is this one featuring only two 3-star recruits, it's pretty obvious why.

UCF Knights

Best Class: 2010

Commits: 23

This class featured guard Torrian Wilson, a 4-star recruit, but the prize of the group was quarterback Jeff Godfrey.

Godfrey has been the featured star in the Knights' offensive attack.

It hasn't been incredibly effective, but Godfrey's athletic ability make him fun to watch.

Of course, he is transferring from the program, but the two years he was under center were definitely entertaining.

Rice Owls

Best Class: 2009

Commits: 25

Rice is the program that still uses cursive script for the name on its uniforms.

The recruiting going on for Rice is not as bad as at some of the other C-USA or MAC schools, and this class featured four 3-star recruits and running back Sam McGuffie.

That pretty much cements the class atop the list.

UAB Blazers

Best Class: 2009

Commits: 24

When is the last time you really paid attention to the UAB program, even when it was playing your team?

However, it recruits just like any other program.

Albeit with a little smaller measure of success.

SMU Mustangs

Best Class: 2009

Commits: 28

The last two starting quarterbacks for June Jones at SMU, Kyle Padron and J.J. McDermott, were both part of this class.

The 'Stangs are on their way back to respectability, and these two have been at least partially responsible for that success.

East Carolina Pirates

Best Class: 2010

Commits: 21

The Pirates have managed to hang with some pretty tough competition on the field over the past few seasons.

This is thanks to the sometimes stellar play of quarterback Dominique Davis, who was a JUCO transfer in 2010.

OT Drew Gentry was another solid recruit from this class.

Tulsa Golden Hurricane

Best Class: 2008

Commits: 27

The Hurricanes lost only four games during the regular season, every one of them to a Top 10-ranked team.

G.J. Kinne was the quarterback that led this squad, and Damaris Johnson joined him in this class.

Johnson set an NCAA record for all-purpose yards during his time with Tulsa but sadly pleaded guilty to felony charges.

Even so, this class provided plenty of exciting moments for Tulsa fans.

Marshall Thundering Herd

Best Class: 2011

Commits: 34

This class included 22 recruits with grades of 70 or higher, including OLB Armonze Daniel.

It's no surprise that Marshall is slowly working its way back toward the top of C-USA.

Houston Cougars

Best Class: 2010

Commits: 27

Sammy Brown finished in the top three in the country this season with 13.5 sacks.

He arrived at Houston as a JUCO transfer in 2010.

Case Keenum may have been the catalyst for this team's explosive offense, but without Brown the defense would have been significantly weakened.

Southern Miss Golden Eagles

Best Class: 2010

Commits: 27

The Golden Eagles had quite a haul in 2010.

This class included one 4-star recruit and 13 guys with grades of 70 or higher.

New Mexico Lobos

Best Class: 2010

Commits: 18

Solid recruits that actually live up to their billing are few and far between in Lobo-land.

The 2010 class featured guys such as Tarean Austin, the Lobos' second option at quarterback in 2011, and DT Calvin Smith.

UNLV Rebels

Best Class: 2011

Commits: 23

Bobby Hauck is entering his third season as the head coach at UNLV and is starting to see some success on the recruiting trail.

His class of 2011 included standout tight end Tyler Bergsten and quarterback Nick Sherry.

Colorado State

Best Class: 2010

Commits: 30 

This class stands out simply because of one guy: Nordly Capi. 

Capi wound up with double-digit sack numbers in 2011 and was a one-man wrecking crew in the backfield for the Rams at times.

He is one of the few Rams to draw attention on a national scale.

Air Force Falcons

Best Class: 2012

Commits: 34

The foundation of Air Force's success as a program, whatever success there is, is great defense and a stellar rushing game.

This class features Steven Cornellier and Jalen Boyd, both defensive standouts.

Of course, recruiting is a little more difficult for AF, so 5-star recruits will never be the norm, but solid guys that play great fundamentals are.

San Diego State Aztecs

Best Class: 2010

Commits: 28

Rocky Long has done a good job of keeping commits, even after the departure of Brady Hoke.

Ronnie Hillman was one recruit who has paid off big time.

Hillman has finished near the top of the country in rushing in both of his seasons in spite of playing as a wide receiver in high school and being recruited as such.

Wyoming Cowboys

Best Class: 2011

Commits: 25 

This class had an instant impact.

Quarterback Brett Smith, the second-ranked QB in the 'Pokes recruiting class, led them in passing yards and touchdowns this season.

He was joined in this class by linebacker Eddie Yarbrough and fellow QB Adam Pittser.

Boise State Broncos

Best Class: 2008

Commits: 21

Wide receiver Chris Potter, tight end Chandler Koch and safety George Iloka were all part of this class.

Each one of those guys has been instrumental in the Broncos' success over the past three seasons.

Of course, it doesn't come close to touching the 2007 class, which featured Kellen Moore, Titus Young and Austin Pettis, but is it the best of the period from 2008 to 2012.

TCU Horned Frogs

Best Class: 2009

Commits: 22

Gary Patterson has done a great job of recruiting at TCU.

This class was unquestionably one of his best.

Linebacker Tanner Brock, wide receiver Josh Boyce, quarterback Casey Pachall and defensive tackle James Dunbar were all part of this class and are all stars for the Frogs.

Army Black Knights

Best Class: 2011

Commits: 33

Army made its first bowl game since 1996 in 2010.

The recruiting pickings are slim, as military academies are not hotbeds of football talent anymore.

That said, this class had two 3-star recruits, which is more players of that level than any other season in the past five years.

Navy Midshipmen

Best Class: 2012

Commits: 7

Navy also has a difficult time coming up with great football talent due to the nature of the beast.

It has had a modicum of greater success than Army, but not much.

This class is the highlight of recent seasons.

The guys who commit to play for Navy do not always wind up with the team, so it's difficult to judge the recruiting classes.

BYU Cougars

Best Class: 2010

Commits: 27

This was a solid class for Bronco Mendenhall.

While quarterback Jake Heaps has been limited by injuries and has now transferred, wide receiver Ross Apo was also part of this class.

Those guys, along with defensive end Bronson Kaufusi, gave Mendenhall a class that included three 4-star recruits.

Notre Dame Fighting Irish

Best Class: 2009

Commits: 23

ESPN150: 10

Tyler Eifert, Manti Te'o and Cierre Wood were the highlights of this class.

While the 2008 class featured some incredible talent, Wood and Te'o especially have been solid and will make be great playmakers again in 2012.

If Dayne Crist had turned out to be a reliable option, 2008 would have won this matchup, but as it is, I have to go with Te'o's class.

It could just be because he is a beast...

Syracuse Orange

Best Class: 2011

Commits: 27

The Orange pulled in several 3-star recruits in 2011, about twice the number they usually do.

They are still far behind most of the front-runners in the Big East when it comes to recruiting and will likely find that they are still behind the ACC as well.

Be that as it may, guys like linebacker Cameron Lynch give this class some potential.

USF Bulls

Best Class: 2010

Commits: 20

ESPN150: 2

The 2008 class brought quarterback B.J. Daniels to the Bulls.

However, when you come down to it, the class that will eventually have the biggest impact is the Bulls' 2010 group.

This included defensive tackle Todd Chandler, safety Terrence Mitchell and defensive end Brandon Wilkinson (who has since transferred).

If one of those guys lives up to his potential, Skip Holtz will have a star on his hands.

UConn Huskies

Best Class: 2008

Commits: 23

This is an easy one.

This class featured linebacker Sio Moore, end Trevardo Williams, running back Jordan Todman and quarterback Zach Frazer as a transfer from Notre Dame.

Those guys were all key in UConn's run to the Big East title in the 2010 season.

Pitt Panthers

Best Class: 2009

Commits: 20

While the 2008 class featured three ESPN150 recruits, this class has left more of an impact.

Ray Graham, Dion Lewis and Brock DeCicco were all part of this class.

Graham and Lewis both led the team in rushing when given the chance, and DeCicco has been one of the best tight ends in the Big East.

Rutgers Scarlet Knights

Best Class: 2011

Commits: 24

ESPN150: 1

The 2011 class, highlighted by running back Savon Huggins, is going to be the best for the Scarlet Knights.

Let's not forget about their 2009 class, however, which besides featuring three ESPN150 guys brought us the talent of Mohamed Sanu.

Sanu was one of the top receivers in the nation in 2011 for the Knights and will make a splash in the future on Sundays.

Lousiville Cardinals

Best Class: 2011

Commits: 23

ESPN150: 3

The Cardinals managed to finish tied atop the Big East after starting the season with minimal expectations.

Their best class was last season, when the guy that led them this season was recruited.

Quarterback Teddy Bridgewater was a pleasant surprise, and he was one of five 4-star recruits for the Cards, who added 14 3-star guys as well.

West Virginia Mountaineers

Best Class: 2009

Commits: 25

ESPN150: 1

Safety Darwin Cook, quarterback Geno Smith, running back Shawne Alston and wide receivers Stedman Bailey and Tavon Austin were all a part of this class.

Let's put that in perspective.

In the Mountaineers' Orange Bowl juicing of Clemson, they scored 10 touchdowns.

Each one of these guys scored at least once, and they accounted for every score WVU put on the board.

Pretty good haul, huh?

Cincinnati Bearcats

Best Class: 2008

Commits: 25

Isaiah Pead has been one of the top running backs in the Big East for the past two seasons.

Cincy finished tied atop the Big East standings this season, and Pead's 2,268 yards over the past two seasons have helped contribute to the Bearcats' success.

Pead was a part of this class.

Duke Blue Devils

Best Class: 2008

Commits: 17

The Blue Devils have long been the whipping post for the rest of the ACC.

There was a glimmer of hope when coach David Cutcliffe came to town, but that has slowly faded away.

This class, however, was decent.

Safety Matt Daniels has been the anchor of that defense and a legitimate star, while Sean Renfree was an adequate starter.

Both of them were part of this class.

Maryland Terrapins

Best Class: 2008

Commits: 20

ESPN150: 2

Randy Edsall has his work cut out for him trying to turn the Terps into a contender in the ACC.

Kenny Tate was recruited out of high school as a wide receiver but turned into the best defender Maryland could field.

His athleticism is freakish, and he hits hard.

While fellow ESPN150 recruit Kerry Boykins has not quite lived up to potential, Tate was a star for the Terps.

North Carolina Tar Heels

Best Class: 2008

Commits: 18

ESPN150: 1

The Tar Heels have been pulling in solid classes for some time now.

Every season, it seems as if a new star blossoms from a different class.

The foundation for all of that may been this season, when defensive stars Zach Brown and Quinton Coples signed with UNC.

Boston College Eagles

Best Class: 2009

Commits: 18

Let's be frank.

There are not many stars that wind up playing at BC any more.

The years that the team has any measure of success are usually a result of stellar team play rather than transcendent performances by individual stars.

That said, this class featured one of the biggest stars in BC history.

Linebacker Luke Kuechly, who averaged over 16 tackles per game in 2011, joined the Eagles in this class.

Miami (FL) Hurricanes

Best Class: 2008

Commits: 32

ESPN150: 12

The 'Canes always have a plethora of great talent to field.

This team had a ridiculous 12 ESPN150 recruits.

This class featured Marcus Forston, Sean Spence, Ramon Buchanan, Travis Benjamin, Tommy Streeter and the mercurial Jacory Harris.

North Carolina State Wolfpack

Best Class: 2010

Commits: 23

ESPN150: 1

Guess who led the country in interceptions this season?

David Amerson, NC State corner.

Not only did he lead the nation, he also tied the mark for second-most in the history of the game with 13 in one season.

This class also featured 4-star offensive tackle Robert Crisp.

Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets

Best Class: 2008

Commits: 20

This class not only featured running back Embry Peeples but also brought quarterback Tevin Washington to the ATL.

Washington was the catalyst for Paul Johnson's triple option this season.

A few of the Jackets' other classes had more commits, but none on the level of Washington.

Florida State Seminoles

Best Class: 2009

Commits: 20

ESPN150: 5

The Seminoles pull in excellent class after excellent class.

This one featured Xavier Rhodes and Greg Reid, one of the top cornerback tandems in the country.

It also brought star defensive end Brandon Jenkins to Tallahassee.

Virginia Cavaliers

Best Class: 2011

Commits: 26

ESPN150: 5

Mike London has made significant strides in turning around the Cavaliers and getting them back to respectability.

The Cavs' 2011 class included two top-rated cornerbacks and is by far the highest-rated class the Cavaliers have pulled in in several years.

Wake Forest Demon Deacons

Best Class: 2010

Commits: 21

The Demon Deacons have suffered through some rough seasons.

However, they enjoyed a modicum of success in the conference in 2011 with a 5-3 record in the ACC.

The 2010 class included Merrill Noel and Tanner Price, both guys who were a huge part of the Deacs' success this season.

Virginia Tech Hokies

Best Class: 2009

Commits: 21

ESPN150: 2

It's close between the 2008 and 2009 classes for Frank Beamer's squad.

The edge, for me, goes to the 2009 class, which featured Logan Thomas, David Wilson and Jayron Hosley.

Thomas and Wilson were pretty much the entire offense for the Hokies in 2011, and Hosley has been one of the best corners in the country for two years.

Clemson Tigers

Best Class: 2008

Commits: 25

ESPN150: 10

Clemson seems to consistently pull in great recruits who then usually underperform.

This class was absolutely loaded with guys who had great success on the field.

Da'Quan Bowers, Andre Ellington, Kyle Parker, Jamie Harper, Brandon Thompson and Dwayne Allen were all featured in this class.

Indiana Hoosiers

Best Class: 2008

Commits: 203

This year's class would have taken it hands down if Gunner Kiel had stayed committed to the Hoosiers.

Since he did not, the class with the most impact had to be the 2008 edition.

Wide receivers Tandon Doss and Damarlo Belcher were both part of that class, as was running back Darius Willis.

Minnesota Golden Gophers

Best Class: 2008

Commits: 31

ESPN150: 1

This class has contributed in a big way during a dark time for Minnesota football.

Current quarterback Marqueis Gray was part of it, as were running back DeLeon Eskridge and Troy Stoudermire, who provided some highlights for fans in a time when highlights were few.

Jerry Kill will have some great classes in the very near future but needs another year or two before he turns this thing around.

Bonus points for signing Xzavian Brandon.

Illinois Fighting Illini

Best Class: 2008

Commits: 28

ESPN150: 1

If there is one good thing that can be said about former Illini coach Ron Zook, it's that he could recruit.

In this class, he pulled in two running backs that turned out to be studs in Mikel Leshoure and Jason Ford.

That same class featured this season's national sack leader, Whitney Mercilus, and star defensive end Corey Liuget.

Northwestern Wildcats

Best Class: tie 2009/2010

Commits: 18/17

Pat Fitzgerald has things going in the right direction, getting the Wildcats back to bowl games on a regular basis.

Recruiting is difficult, as the academic standards make it difficult to recruit just anybody.

The 2009 class included Mike Trumpy and Arby Fields, while the 2010 group featured Kain Colter.

Ohio State Buckeyes

Best Class: 2008

Commits: 20

ESPN150: 8

The tattoo controversy aside, this class has to be the crown jewel of the past five seasons for the Buckeyes.

Terrelle Pryor headlined the class, but wide receiver DeVier Posey, offensive tackles Mike Brewster and Mike Adams, linebackers Etienne Sabino and Andrew Sweat, tight end Jake Stoneburner and safety Orhian Johnson were all members of this class.

Ever heard of any of those guys?

Iowa Hawkeyes

Best Class: 2008

Commits: 26

Iowa and Kirk Ferentz consistently take "lower-level" talent and turn them into stars.

Shonn Greene snuck into this class unheralded and left a star.

Shaun Prater has been a major part of the defense in his time at Iowa.

Riley Reiff and James Vandenberg were starters this season, and Reiff was considered one of the best offensive linemen in the conference.

Purdue Boilermakers

Best Class: 2009

Commits: 21

This class had 11 recruits graded 75 or higher.

While there were no stars in this class, gazing up and down the list reveals the names of several guys who have been solid contributors for this team.

Danny Hope has to do battle with the other B1G recruiters and Notre Dame, which is no easy proposition.

Nebraska Cornhuskers

Best Class: 2009

Commits: 21

I have to go with the 2009 group in this debate.

The Huskers are a rushing team.

That year, both quarterback Taylor Martinez and running back Rex Burkhead came in that class, as did wide receiver Brandon Kinnie.

This could change if the young guys the Huskers have produce next season, but for now this class is the best in recent memory.

Penn State Nittany Lions

Best Class: 2010

Commits: 20

ESPN150: 6

The Lions are still waiting for some major results from this class.

It featured quarterback Rob Bolden, who has not lived up to the hype.

Running back Silas Redd, however, will be near the top of the B1G next season in rushing, and he was also part of this class.

Michigan Wolverines

Best Class: 2009

Commits: 22

ESPN150: 7

Look, Brady Hoke has done some great things already in his time at Michigan.

The credit for this class has to go to Rich Rodriguez, however, as he pulled in guys like quarterbacks Tate Forcier and Denard Robinson and running back Fitz Toussaint.

This class also featured defensive end Craig Roh.

Wisconsin Badgers

Best Class: 2009

Commits: 21

ESPN150: 1

This program turns out tight ends and offensive linemen like a factory.

This class included linemen Ryan Groy and Travis Frederick and tight end Jacob Pedersen.

Standout linebacker Chris Borland was also a member of this class.

Oh yeah, the guy that tied Barry Sanders' touchdown record in 2011, Montee Ball, was also part of this class.

Michigan State Spartans

Best Class: 2008

Commits: 20

The Spartans finished second in the conference two years in a row, and the strength of their squad has been the defense.

Stars Jerel Worthy, Johnny Adams and Trenton Robinson all came to East Lansing with this class.

And some guy named Keshawn Martin was the lowest-rated recruit the Spartans picked up that season.

What a joke.

Arizona Wildcats

Best Class: 2009

Commits: 25

The Wildcats have struggled to get quality recruits to play in Tucson.

That should change significantly with the arrival of Rich Rodriguez.

Whatever else you want to say about the man, he knows how to recruit.

The best recruit at Arizona in the past five years turned out to be quarterback Nick Foles, who would have been an elite quarterback with any sort of rushing game and defense.

Washington State Cougars

Best Class: 2010

Commits: 25

This class has filled some gaps for the Cougs—not very well, but somebody had to do it.

Marquess Wilson is a different story.

He was an unheralded recruit from this class but is easily the best recruit the Cougars have pulled in for some time.

He has been one of the most explosive receivers in the Pac-12 for two years and will be again, even without a great quarterback.

Colorado Buffaloes

Best Class: 2008

Commits: 21

ESPN150: 3

Colorado has not been able to recruit elite-level players in about a decade.

This class was highlighted by the signing of star running back Darrell Scott, as well as linebackers Jon Major and Lynn Katoa.

Oregon State Beavers

Best Class: 2008

Commits: 18

All you need to know about this class is that it included 'Quizz.

Jacquizz Rodgers was one of the most exciting running backs in the country during his time in the Pac-12.

This class also included Stephen Paea, a defensive tackle who was severely underrated coming out of high school.

Utah Utes

Best Class: 2009

Commits: 24

The Utes wound up winning a few games in the Pac-12 after starting off the 2011 season on an extremely low note.

Quarterback Jordan Wynn was out for the majority of the season with an injury but is expected back in 2012.

He was the cornerstone of the Utes offense in the 2010 season, when they only lost three games.

Wynn is the best player to come out of the best recruiting class in the past five years for Utah.

Cal Golden Bears

Best Class: 2010

Commits: 19

ESPN150: 2

The 2012 class saw quarterback Zach Maynard transfer in and wide receiver Keenan Allen join the team.

Those two were an explosive tandem for Jeff Tedford in 2011 and should be on your radar for 2012.

Arizona State Sun Devils

Best Class: 2009

Commits: 24

ESPN150: 2

This class was a gold mine for Dennis Erickson.

Too bad he could not capitalize and keep his job.

It brought in the meanest man in football, linebacker Vontaze Burfict.

It also brought the Devils' next two starting quarterbacks in Michigan transfer Steven Threet and the "Human Giraffe" Brock Osweiler.

This season's starting running back, Cameron Marshall, was a part of that class, as was wide receiver Aaron Pflugrad, who transferred in from Oregon.

Quite a haul.

Washington Huskies

Best Class: 2009

Commits: 19

This class earns the distinction simply for the singular reason that Keith Price was in it.

The man is going to be a legit Heisman contender next season and scored seven total touchdowns (an all-time bowl game record) against Baylor in the Alamo Bowl.

Keep an eye on this guy.

UCLA Bruins

Best Class: 2010

Commits: 22

ESPN150: 7

Jim L. Mora has his hands full trying to turn around a UCLA program that has fallen far in spite of a Pac-12 South title in 2011.

However, he will have plenty of talent to help him turn things around, including these talented individuals that departed head coach Rick Neuheisel left behind.

Perhaps Mora can do what Neuheisel failed to do and make a dent in the impact USC has on the area.

Stanford Cardinal

Best Class: 2008

Commits: 18

ESPN150: 1

Yes, that one was Andrew Luck.

However, he was not the only star to emerge from this incredible class.

Two of his offensive linemen, David DeCastro and Jonathan Martin, joined him in this class, as did Chase Thomas and receiver Chris Owusu.

This class has been key in leading the Cardinal to two consecutive BCS games.

USC Trojans

Best Class: 2009

Commits: 18

ESPN150: 9

USC has been limited in recent seasons by NCAA sanctions.

However, this class has proven to be a gold mine for Lane Kiffin and the Trojans.

Matt Barkley, the transcendent quarterback who decided to return for next season, was part of this class, as was standout safety T.J. McDonald.

With both of those guys returning next season, the Trojans are the favorite to win the Pac-12.

Oregon Ducks

Best Class: 2008

Commits: 20

ESPN150: 1

Check out the names in this class.

Kenjon Barner, LaMichael James, Jeremiah Masoli, Kiko Alonso, John Boyett, Josh Kaddu, LeGarrette Blount and Darron Thomas.

What do they all have in common?

They have all been instrumental in Oregon's emergence as a power in the Pac-12, and every one of them was a member of this class.

Kansas Jayhawks

Best Class: 2009

Commits: 25

There have not been very good classes at Kansas for some time.

This one is going to be my pick for the best class because it included wide receiver D.J. Beshears and quarterback Jordan Webb.

Webb has not been particularly effective for Kansas but was one of the most productive players on the squad in 2011.

Texas Tech Red Raiders

Best Class: 2012

Commits: 25

ESPN150: 3

Tommy Tuberville and his staff are working their recruiting magic.

The 2012 class is stacking up to be one of the best in Tech's history.

They have verbal commits from two standout wide receivers, Dominique Wheeler and Reginald Davis, plus two other 4-star commits and 13 3-star guys.

Iowa State Cyclones

Best Class:

Commits:

The Cyclones are a middle-of-the-pack Big 12 team.

The recruiting classes that are consistently brought into this place are much the same.

Mediocre at best.

The reason this class gets the nod is because it was one of only two classes to have a recruit graded higher than a 77 in the past five seasons.

Running back DeVondrick Nealy earns that honor.

Paul Rhoads needs to find some talent to bring in.

Texas A&M Aggies

Best Class: 2008

Commits: 24

ESPN150: 3

The 2012 class was solid, featuring two offensive linemen who have turned into stars.

However, the 2008 class gets the nod for featuring receiver Jeff Fuller and running back Cyrus Gray, the Aggies' best wide receiver and running back, respectively, of the past five seasons.

The team might not have been able to hold a lead, but these two guys were explosive and fun to watch.

Texas Longhorns

Best Class: 2010

Commits: 25

ESPN150: 15

It's a wonder how the Longhorns ever have a bad season with the talent that is floating around in Austin.

The number of ESPN150 recruits in this class is ridiculous, and while some of them have yet to fulfill their potential, it's only a matter of time.

Highlights of the class were Jackson Jeffcoat, Mike Davis, Case McCoy and Jordan Hicks.

Missouri Tigers

Best Class: 2008

Commits: 24

ESPN150: 1

Wide receiver Michael Egnew was part of this class, as were defensive ends Aldon Smith, Brad Smith and Jacquies Smith.

But the best player to come in this class was quarterback Blaine Gabbert.

He lead the Tigers to unprecedented heights in his time with the program and departed early for the NFL.

Oklahoma Sooners

Best Class: 2008

Commits: 21

ESPN150: 8

In spite of his mercurial ways, quarterback Landry Jones is a large part of the reason the Sooners have enjoyed success over the past few seasons.

He was definitely the most successful player to emerge from this class and has a chance to add to his legacy in his senior season with a solid performance.

Baylor Bears

Best Class: 2008

Commits: 22

ESPN150: 1

This is an easy one.

Robert Griffin III won the first Heisman in Baylor history and led the Bears to their first bowl win since 1992.

He was joined in this class by his favorite target, receiver Kendall Wright.

Kansas State Wildcats

Best Class: 2008

Commits: 33

This class was highlighted by Collin Klein.

No offense to the rest of the class, but he was the catalyst for the Wildcats' success in 2011.

Klein was second in the nation in rushing touchdowns with 27.

Not bad for a quarterback.

Bill Snyder knows how to pick 'em.

Oklahoma State Cowboys

Best Class: 2008

Commits: 27

ESPN150: 1

There have been plenty of prolific offensive stars in the recent history of Oklahoma State football.

It could be argued, however, that none has been more significant to the college football landscape than receiver Justin Blackmon.

The man won the Biletnikoff Award twice.

Blackmon was part of this class, which also featured safety Markelle Martin.

Tennessee Volunteers

Best Class: 2010

Commits: 30

ESPN150: 6

Derek Dooley and his orange pants have done a great job recruiting for Tennessee.

Never was this more evident than in his 2010 haul.

This class included star quarterback Tyler Bray, who will return from injury in 2012 to challenge for best quarterback in the SEC.

Tennessee fans have had to suffer for a while, but with this kind of recruiting on a consistent basis, it won't be long before the program is back near the top of the SEC.

Ole Miss Rebels

Best Class: 2011

Commits: 28

ESPN150:1

Houston Nutt may have needed to move on, but he brought in some solid recruits.

Hugh Freeze will have plenty of talent available.

This class, besides wide receiver Tobias Singleton, who has the potential to be a star, included Oregon transfer Jeremiah Masoli.

Kentucky Wildcats

Best Class: 2011

Commits: 27

Joker Phillips' focus appears to be on shoring up his offensive line.

In this class, the two highest-rated recruits were Darrian Miller and Zach West, both high school standouts along the offensive line.

Although there were no ESPN150 recruits in this class, it was a solid haul for Phillips.

Mississippi State Bulldogs

Best Class: 2010

Commits: 25

ESPN150: 1

Dan Mullen's squad just suffered through a disappointing season.

However, there should be hope among the minions of Bulldog Nation.

Mullen can recruit and knows how to pick out talent.

This class featured an unheralded recruit named Vick Ballard, whom MSU fans know to be their leading rusher and scoring threat in tandem with quarterback Chris Relf.

Vanderbilt Commodores

Best Class: 2012

Commits: 20

ESPN150: 1

Yes, they are only commits, but after years of capping out with guys graded 75-78, this is the year that the 'Dores get a break.

Brian Kimbrow gave a verbal commitment and is the highest-rated player to choose Vandy in some time.

This, coupled with the recent success of the program on the field, gives hope that it will rise from the dregs of the SEC.

Auburn Tigers

Best Class: 2010

Commits: 32

ESPN150: 7

Did you expect another class, really?

Cam Newton's arrival led to a perfect season, a Heisman Trophy and a BCS title.

He wasn't the only member of this class that has made a splash, however. Running back Michael Dyer (who has now transferred) and defensive end Corey Lemonier have made an impact, and Lemonier will be a star on next season's team.

Florida Gators

Best Class: 2008

Commits: 23

ESPN150: 11

Will Hill, Jeff Demps, Janoris Jenkins and Emmanuel Moody all signed with this class.

This was one of Urban Meyer's excellent classes while at Florida before he bolted for the booth.

The guys mentioned above have been a few of the bright spots for the Gators in an otherwise dark couple of seasons.

Arkansas Razorbacks

Best Class: 2008

Commits: 26

ESPN150: 3

Ryan Mallett led the Razorbacks to the Sugar Bowl in his final year. Tyler Wilson took over this past year and led the Hogs to a 11-2 season.

What did they have in common?

Both were members of this class.

Other notables included Joe Adams and Jarius Wright.

South Carolina Gamecocks

Best Class: 2010

Commits: 24

ESPN150: 3

When quarterback Stephen Garcia was kicked out of the program finally, Connor Shaw stepped in and admirably filled his shoes.

Shaw was a member of this class.

He was joined by star running back Marcus Lattimore, who looks to return from injury in 2012 and lead Steve Spurrier's team to an SEC East title.

Alabama Crimson Tide

Best Class: 2009

Commits: 30

ESPN150: 9

Nick Saban consistently hauls in ridiculously talented classes.

This one was no exception.

Some guys named Trent Richardson and Dre Kirkpatrick led the class, which also included A.J. McCarron, Nico Johnson and Eddie Lacy.

Georgia Bulldogs

Best Class: 2008

Commits: 24

ESPN150: 8

This was a tough one.

The 2009 class was loaded, but I had to go with 2008.

That season, Mark Richt brought in the legendary A.J. Green, cornerback Brandon Boykin and safety Bacarri Rambo.

Green was a monster, and Rambo and Boykin helped anchor a stout defense in their time with the Dawgs.

LSU Tigers

Best Class: 2009

Commits: 25

ESPN150: 10

Say what you will about Les Miles' inability to adjust his offense in the BCS title game or his horrible clock management skills—the man can recruit.

In this one class, he brought in a mess of stars, starting with Russell Shepard and Barkevious Mingo and running all the way to Morris Claiborne and Sam Montgomery.

Miles is going to come out on top with another top recruiting class in 2012 and another SEC title.