The Undeniable Leader for Every FBS College Football Team for the 2012 Season

The 2011 college football season was a memorable one as the SEC once again dominated the national landscape. They claimed their sixth-straight BCS National Championship with Alabama winning another national championship (No. 14).

The Crimson Tide were led all season by their All-American defense and running back Trent Richardson.

Richardson was the obvious leader of the team because of his modest attitude, stellar production and willingness to put the team ahead of anything else.

The 2012 college football season will now feature 124 teams (with the addition of UTSA, Massachusetts, Texas State and Southern Alabama), and every team will have a leader that lays it out on the field every Saturday.

Some leaders may do an extra bit of chirping while on the sidelines, but all great leaders have one thing in common: to let their play on the field do the talking.

So, let us kick off the 2012 college football season by discussing which stars are already the undeniable leaders of their teams.

Index: The teams are listed in the following order by conference, followed by the four brand-new teams: SEC, Big Ten, Big 12, ACC, Pac-12, Big East, Mountain West, C-USA, WAC, Indy, MAC and Sun Belt.

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South Carolina, Marcus Lattimore

The Gamecocks offense stalled right away when they lost arguably the best back in the country, but they did recover nicely (11-2).

Lattimore carries this team on offense and forces SEC opponents to stack the box. Steve Spurrier has a legit team coming back and has really made his squad a nationally-relevant team as opposed to what they once were, a near doormat.

Arkansas, Tyler Wilson

The First Team All-SEC quarterback had a fantastic season despite the loss of his star running back Knile Davis. Some could look at Davis as the team leader, but Wilson pretty much carried this team on his back, and they finished the season 11-2 and ranked as the fifth best team in the country.

LSU, Tyrann Mathieu

The “Honey Badger” shined all season long, and up until the BCS National Championship, he was the guy everybody talked about. There is no doubting how amazing he is on special teams and defense, but when he struggled, the entire team went into a funk.

If he can get back to owning part of the landscape of college football, the Bayou Bengals will be rolling into December and January once again as the so-called “team to beat.”

Georgia, Aaron Murray

The Bulldogs were nearly unstoppable when Murray did not turn the ball over because the defense was ferocious most of the time. They have a few All-American caliber players returning on that side of the ball, but Murray himself can become one of the best players in the SEC.

Tyler Wilson edged him out for First Team All-SEC, but the UGA quarterback may be in line for some major team accomplishments in 2012.

Alabama, Barrett Jones

Winning the BCS National Championship has made Barrett Jones the obvious leader for 2012 since so many of the defensive stars will have left and, of course, Trent Richardson is also gone.

A.J. McCarron could be considered the leader of this team since he is the signal-caller, but arguably the best lineman in all of college football happens to also be the unsung hero of the team. Jones can play any position on the line and carries a presence with him that Nick Saban absolutely loves.

Auburn, Corey Lemonier

This All-SEC defensive end will likely become one of the best in the game next season, and he really carries his emotions on his sleeve. Playing for a winning coach is one thing, but the return of every defensive starter will only help Lemonier feast on SEC quarterbacks (9.5 sacks).

Florida, Jon Bostic

Jon Bostic was a stud linebacker one season ago which is a scary thought for 2012 SEC foes.  His team-leading 94 tackles are solid numbers, but Bostic is the guy who makes the bone-crushing hits which allows the team to rally behind him.

Tennessee, Tyler Bray

The Vols star quarterback is their guy, and it is debatable whether or not the Vols are capable of winning any tough games without him.

Without him, Tennessee went 1-4 including three blowouts and a victory over Middle Tennessee State. The hope is that Tennessee can keep him clean in the pocket and Bray can finally have the banner season Knoxville has been waiting for.

Missouri, James Franklin

I have no problem if you think Zaviar Gooden is the true leader of this team, but the Tigers are losing several playmakers on offense which only puts more of the onus on James Franklin.

He struggled throwing a good ball early in the season but improved his accuracy and was a major threat running out of the backfield.

Mississippi State, Johnthan Banks

The Bulldogs have had a solid defense the past few seasons, and Banks is one of the more physical corners in the SEC. He has the ability to come up and obliterate receivers in the backfield.

Whether the quarterback throws an ill-advised pass or a back is flushed out of the line of scrimmage, Banks can simply light them up.

Vanderbilt: Zac Stacy

The Commodores' star leader and main producer on offense was Stacy. Had he played for a team like Georgia, Florida or even Tennessee, then he would be a household name already (201 carries for 1,193 yards and 14 TDs).

Ole Miss, Jeff Scott

Jeff Scott is way too electric of a runner to be getting into trouble and suspended on this Rebels team that desperately needs more offensive horses.

Scott missed the final two games of the 2011 season but made a solid impact when he was on the field. He handled the rock 116 times as a running back for 529 yards and six TDs, and it may just be about time the junior becomes a leader so this Rebels team can get back to serious football with Hugh Freeze taking over.

Kentucky, La'Rod King

La'Rod King hauled in 40 passes, seven that went for six points. The Kentucky Wildcats were a miserable offensive squad, and most point the blame to the offensive of the ball since the 'Cats failed to appear in a bowl game for the first time since 2005.

They lose a bunch of their star linebackers, and if the offense wants to improve they are much better off throwing the ball towards the direction of the 6'4" star.

Texas A&M, Ryan Swope

As soon as Swope made the smart decision of returning to College Station, he became the undeniable leader.

Arguably the best receiver in the Big 12, he has great hands and can turn a short pass into an 80-yard touchdown. His 11 TDs, 1,207 yards and 89 receptions were among the best in the Big 12, and he will certainly make an impact in the SEC.

Ohio State, Braxton Miller

Braxton Miller had a sensational season for a freshman, and he will be looked upon as the team leader by Urban Meyer.

Sure, John Simon and a few other studs on the defensive side of the ball can become influential and inspirational players, but it is Miller's play (20 total TDs) that has given Columbus high expectations once again.

Wisconsin, Montee Ball

Tying Barry Sanders' record for most total touchdowns in a season (39) is not too shabby, but Ball will be losing three of his starting linemen and his quarterback Russell Wilson.

No need to worry, though, because Ball is a natural leader who lets his play do the talking as arguably the most under-appreciated back in America.

Penn State, Silas Redd

The Nittany Lions offense was abysmal, ranking 95th in the nation, and the hope is that their one true star can only get better.

Silas Redd put together a solid sophomore campaign, rushing for 1,241 yards and seven TDs, but he needs to show more of that long-run ability.

Plus, it would be nice for the Nittany Lions to have a true leader on the team with everything the program has gone through.

Illinois, Jonathan Brown

This star linebacker for the Illini was first in tackles (108), second in tackles for losses (19.5) and third in sacks (6).

Whitney Mercilus is gone, so Brown had better play like an All-American again, and it would be nice if he is the one that the team rallies around as well.

Purdue, Ralph Bolden

Despite missing Purdue's bowl game, Ralph Bolden was their main stud on offense. The hope is that he will be fully recovered by September after suffering his third torn ACL since his senior year of high school. 

Bolden has 15 TDs on his career and over 1,500 yards so hopefully he can make a heavy impact or else the Boilermakers will have to count on Akeem Shavers or quarterback Robert Marve.

Indiana, Stephen Houston

Eclipsing the 100-yard mark three times last season, Stephen Houston was literally the only productive player on offense for the Hoosiers.

They still have question marks on the offensive line, at receiver and at the quarterback position, so Kevin Wilson is praying that Houston can carry this team by himself.

Nebraska, Rex Burkhead

The Huskers struggled with their passing attack, mainly because the wide receivers could not stay productive, but there is no need to fret.

Rex Burkhead has been the real deal in the backfield and is arguably among the top five running backs in the country.

Michigan State, Johnny Adams

This was a tough decision since a few other players on this Spartan squad that could be deemed as their team leader.

However, Adams made a Second Team All-Big Ten back in 2010 and was recently named to the First Team All-Big Ten Team (Coaches).

Adams is one of the elite defensive backs in the game and has started the last 28 games for defensive coordinator Pat Narduzzi's suffocating defense. 

Iowa, James Vandenberg

The Hawkeyes' quarterback needs to take over as the team leader, and he might just be the guy to lead them as one of the best unheralded teams in the country.

The 2012 schedule is manageable, but the savvy signal-caller needs to perform like a star in and out of the huddle for the Hawkeyes to get back to a New Year's Day bowl.

Northwestern, Kain Colter

Filling in for Dan Persa with his nagging injuries, Kain Colter was a triple threat. Colter had 43 receptions for 466 yards and three TDs as a receiver, but he also toted the rock 135 times for 654 yards and nine TDs.

He also went 55-of-82 as a quarterback with 673 yards and six TDs (one INT). Colter will be relied upon to carry the 'Cats back into the postseason, and he may just have the intangibles to do so.

Michigan, Denard Robinson

"Shoelace" has been one of the more explosive players in the country over the past few seasons, but the Maize and Blue go as he goes.

Well, outside of his Sugar Bowl struggles, Robinson means everything to the Wolverines offense. Fitzgerald Toussaint has given them some extra punch in the running game, but the pocket still collapses on occasion and it is up to No. 16 to bail them out.

Minnesota, MarQueis Gray

He has had his fair share of struggles, but MarQueis Gray was and still is the playmaker for the Golden Gophers offense.

A big, athletic quarterback who can do it all does not usually just fall out of the sky in the state of Minnesota. If Gray can get more help around him, the Gophers could become serious dark-horse threats to be at or around .500 next season.

Oklahoma, Landry Jones

Landry Jones was on a torrid pace in 2010 but struggled miserably down the stretch of the 2011 season. Ryan Broyles obviously had a large impact, but Jones will be without the star wideout next season.

Guys like Kenny Stills, Trey Franks and Jaz Reynolds are legit Big 12 performers, but as the quarterback, it is up to Jones to lead them back to national prominence. A likely top ten and Big 12 preseason favorite sounds nice, but now is the time that the Sooners needs Jones (especially since he came back) more than ever before.

Texas, Jackson Jeffcoat

Alongside Alex Okafor, the Longhorns will feature a darn good defensive line next season. However, Jackson Jeffcoat has already proven to be the real deal.

In his sophomore campaign he went off for 71 tackles, 21 tackles for losses (led team) and eight sacks (led team).

Maybe David Ash can become a leader for this team, but there is no doubt right now that Jeffcoat will take over for guys like Blake Gideon, Emmanuel Acho and Keenan Robinson.

TCU, Casey Pachall

Making the move to the Big 12 will be really interesting, and most speculate the Horned Frogs to take over A&M's schedule although nothing is official in terms of their dates and opponents.

Still, the one true leader on the team that will need to improve his game during the offseason for the Frogs to have any legitimate shot of winning the Big 12. He has a ton of talented weapons around him, and the hope is that he will build an amazing rapport throughout the spring and summer.

Oklahoma State, Joseph Randle

Joseph Randle had a great college football seasons for a running back (statistically speaking) as he amassed over 1,300 total yards and a combined 26 TDs.

A lot of Randle's success was due to Justin Blackmon and Brandon Weeden, but there should be no questioning that he will put up solid numbers in 2012. Look for more of a vital leadership role from the junior because somebody needs to build a quick rapport with new quarterback Clint Chelf.

Kansas State, Collin Klein

Collin Klein totaled 40 TDs and over 3,000 yards passing this past season for the unheralded Wildcats. Kansas State will be on the majority of teams' radars in 2012, so Klein needs to continue to excel as the obvious team leader.

Texas Tech, Seth Doege

Seth Doege had 32 total TDs last season for Tommy Tuberville, but the Red Raiders still failed to appear in the postseason.

The defense struggled, but Doege was able to rise to the occasion and play one of his best games as a Red Raider when he threw for 441 yards and combined for five TDs in their 41-38 upset over then top-ranked Oklahoma.

Baylor, Nick Florence

Replacing a legend like Robert Griffin III will not be easy, but Nick Florence will not even look at such an impossible and meaningless fact.

Florence has already shown that the 2012 season might not be too shabby. Coming in to replace RGIII against Texas Tech, Florence threw for 151 yards and two TDs in one half of football.

Iowa State, Jake Knott

Alongside A.J. Klein, the Cyclones will feature one of the best defensive duos in the entire Big 12 come 2012. However, Jake Knott had 115 tackles (48th in nation) as well as two interceptions and four tackles for losses.

Knott has been known as the leader of this team (co-captain) and has the hopes of putting Paul Rhoads' Cyclones back on the Big 12 map.

Kansas, Steven Johnson

At linebacker, Steven Johnson had a marvelous season for the Jayhawks. Unfortunately, the season did not go as planned, but at least his team-leading 124 tackles will return in 2012.

Hauling in a few popular quarterbacks as well as Charlie Weis gives the city of Lawrence some hope for 2012, and the schedule is also more manageable. Now, Johnson just needs to come back with the right attitude where his teammates can fall in line.

Florida State, E.J. Manuel

The Seminoles fell apart when E.J. Manuel went down against Oklahoma (shoulder), losing three consecutive games.

Although Manuel came back a few weeks later against Wake Forest, the bleeding could not be stopped as the preseason top-five squad ended up going 9-4 opposed to living up to some of the lofty expectations that were placed on them this past season.

Manuel has essentially all of his playmakers coming back, which could finally mean that Florida State football is back to being dominant.

Clemson, Sammy Watkins

Tajh Boyd may be the quarterback, but he was far too inconsistent to be considered the undeniable leader for this Tiger squad.

Sammy Watkins will be on the majority of experts' All-American teams, and it is his play around which the Tigers rally. Watkins may be the most electrifying player in the country next season, and his production and leadership ability could finally take the Tigers to new-and-improved heights.

North Carolina State, Mike Glennon

Mike Glennon had a great finish of the season in the Wolfpack's Belk Bowl victory over Louisville. The hope is that it can transcend into even more greatness by the time the 2012 season rolls around.

NC State opens up with Tennessee from the SEC, and Glennon's ability to lead this team to victory on that night (Sept. 1) could go a long way.

Boston College, Montel Harris

Montel Harris only played in two games and missed the rest of the season due to a nagging ankle injury. Harris was clearly the guy who was missed the most from Boston College since they failed to reach the postseason for the first time since 1998.

Harris is also just 868 yards from breaking the ACC rushing record held by North Carolina State’s Ted Brown since 1978.

Maryland, Kenny Tate

Kenny Tate was a stud safety two seasons ago and was even named to the First Team All-ACC squad.

A serious neck injury knocked him out for nearly the entire season, and coach Randy Edsall says his team captain will continue to shine at linebacker when he returns hopefully in time for the 2012 season.

Wake Forest, Tanner Price

Tanner Price is the guy who runs the Demon Deacons offense for Jim Grobe, and inconsistency was the main issue in 2011.

Overall, Price did not struggle that much, but Wake needs him to quickly develop into one of the elite signal-callers in the ACC in order to achieve continued success.

Virginia Tech, Logan Thomas

Totaling for over 3,300 yards and a combined 30 touchdowns is great numbers for a first-year starter, but most of the onus will be put on Logan Thomas in 2012.

David Wilson has left for the NFL draft, which isn't a huge concern since the Hokies develop running backs with ease, and it is hopeful that Thomas can put it all together in time for next season.

Miami FL, Ray-Ray Armstrong

Ray-Ray Armstrong has decided to come back for his senior season, and the hope is that he can finally put together that season many 'Canes fans have been waiting for. 

He came into the 2011 season as one of the top five safeties in the game, but he left far from the hype. However, he has a chance to redeem himself and put a program back on the rise.

North Carolina, Bryn Renner

Bryn Renner avoided a sophomore slump by throwing for 26 TDs (13 INTs) and over 3,000 yards, but his team ended on a sour note with the coaching overhaul.

Now with Larry Fedora as the new man in charge, Renner will be counted on to lead a team that has a few explosive playmakers in Erik Highsmith and Jheranie Boyd. Nobody will expect much in Fedora's first season, but Renner could be the biggest surprise in the ACC if he turns into a consistent performer.

Georgia Tech, Tevin Washington

Tevin Washington accounted for 25 touchdowns and over 2,500 yards for Paul Johnson's 8-5 squad.

More will be put on Washington during his senior season, and he has proven that he is capable of leading this team back into the top 25 since they were so close to staying in the rankings this past season.

Virginia, Perry Jones

Perry Jones is a capable runner for Mike London's Wahoos, and they came so close to becoming a nationally-ranked and relevant team in 2011.

The defense loses a ton of starters, so Jones clearly needs to step it up a notch in order for Virginia to avoid falling off the map, which is already what some are alluding to after being torched by Auburn in the Chick-Fil-A Bowl, 43-24. 

Duke, Conner Vernon

Conner Vernon has now hauled in 70-plus passes for consecutive seasons, though he has combined for only nine touchdowns.

Still, this Duke receiver is one of the best in the ACC and needs to finally break through for David Cutcliffe to save his job and more importantly for Duke to end its brutal postseason-less streak ('94 American).

USC, Matt Barkley

The Heisman front-runner will be labeled as the 2012 version of Andrew Luck. The expectations will nearly be insurmountable, but the team he has around him makes it that much easier.

Barkley is the man in charge of the Trojans, and he can lead them back to the promised land in his senior season. 

Oregon, John Boyett

John Boyett has been a star safety for the past few seasons with the Ducks, and he is one of the most underrated stars in all of college football.

Boyett made Second Team All-Pac-12, but he arguably was the best safety for a legit Ducks defense. LaMichael James and Darron Thomas have declared for the 2012 NFL Draft, so the only true leader on offense may be offensive linemen Carson York.

No. 20 is one of the best ballhawking safeties in the game as he does nothing but make the tough plays look easy (nine career picks and over 250 career tackles).

Stanford, Shayne Skov

Going down with a gruesome leg injury against Arizona will only give Shayne Skov more fuel to the fire for his Stanford Cardinal.

Skov has the knack for playing his best in the biggest games as he notched 15 tackles against Oklahoma (2009 Sun Bowl) and 12 against against Virginia Tech (2011 Orange Bowl).

This team leader is a flat-out beast (6'3", 243-pounds), and I would look for him, alongside Chase Thomas, to help Stanford remain as serious Pac-12 contenders following USC and Oregon.

Oregon State, Markus Wheaton

Markus Wheaton was one of the few players who performed well this past season for the Oregon State Beavers. His team-leading 73 receptions for 986 yards were exceptional statistics on a losing squad.

However, his single touchdown just sums up how the season went. Oregon State's 73rd-rated total offense really set this team back and put them behind the eight-ball in many of their games since they went through some growing pains with quarterback Sean Mannion.

Washington, Keith Price

Keith Price starred in the Alamo Bowl against Baylor and amassed nearly 500 yards and a combined seven TDs in the loss.

Still, Price finally flashed brilliance, and he will need to be the one shining since his running back Chris Polk has left early for the NFL Draft.

Cal, Keenan Allen

Keenan Allen's half-brother is quarterback Zach Maynard, but Allen was the one who took the Bears to a respectable level in 2011.

Despite the Holiday Bowl loss to Texas, Cal can once again be relevant in the Pac-12 thanks to Allen's ability to shoulder the load in the passing game now that Marvin Jones has graduated.

Washington State, Marquess Wilson

Mike Leach is the new head coach, which means Marquess Wilson could have an even better season in 2012.

Wilson is coming off an 82-reception, 1,388-yard season that included 12 touchdowns. The Cougars were still not respectable at 4-8, but the hope is that Wilson become the leader in Leach's first season.

Arizona State: Cameron Marshall

Cameron Marshall will heavily be relied upon with Brock Osweiler off to the 2012 NFL Draft. Marshall found paydirt 18 times but disappeared in nearly all of Arizona State's losses.

No. 6 will have a larger role next season, and he had better come up big in Todd Graham's first season if the Sun Devils ever want to change the school from a baseball or party school to a powerhouse football one.

UCLA, Johnathan Franklin

Johnathan Franklin did not have quite the season most wanted him to, but he will be the main ball carrier next season. 

Jim Mora Jr. needs to have Franklin show up as the team leader or his Bruins could fall short of a postseason, but the first process will be to improve upon a team and avoid another eight-loss season.

Utah, John White IV

The "Wolfman" went off against Georgia Tech in the Sun Bowl (26 carries, 115 yards), and that was exactly the type of game he needed to springboard into a potentially sensational 2012 season.

Arizona, Dan Buckner

The former Texas Longhorn needs to put together a solid senior season for a Wildcats team that has brought in Rich Rodriguez as their next head coach.

An offensive spread attack should enable Buckner to get plenty of opportunities, and he will need to have more of a leadership role and improved health (shoulder).

Colorado, Paul Richardson

Toney Clemons was a stud for the Buffaloes last season, and Paul Richardson was not too shabby either (39 receptions for 555 yards and five TDs). Still, a 3-10 season was not pleasant for a once-storied, dominant program, and the junior receiver needs to come up even bigger in 2012.

Pittsburgh, Ray Graham

Pitt lost three of their final five games after losing Ray Graham for the season due to a knee injury. When he was able to play, Graham was one of the elite rushers in the country, as he toted it 164 times for 958 yards and nine TDs.

Coming back for his senior season should make Paul Chryst's first season as the head coach a successful one.

South Florida, B.J. Daniels

B.J. Daniels gets most experts and fans excited for the Bulls to go bonkers nearly every offseason or even during the early parts of the regular season.

However, USF then falls off the face of the earth and is unable to put it together. Daniels is one of the main reasons, and he had better put his best season together if South Florida does not want another roller-coaster season.

West Virginia, Geno Smith

Geno Smith is one of the elite quarterbacks in the country, and he is the clear-cut leader of this Mountaineers squad.

He has a boatload of playmakers at his disposal, but he is the one who is expected to put the ball on the money and when he does, WV is nearly unstoppable.

Cincinnati, Munchie Legaux

Starting in four games for the injured Zach Collaros, Munchie Legaux and the Bearcats did not look that bad. They only went 2-2 and lost out on a trip to the BCS, but most were pleasantly surprised with the way Legaux escaped pressure.

He threw four interceptions compared to his five passing TDs (six total), so it will be imperative that the junior from New Orleans really matures and makes an immediate impact.

Connecticut, Lyle McCombs

This freshman became a horse last season by toting the rock 275 times for 1,151 yards and eight total touchdowns. The Huskies fought hard to come close to playing in a bowl game, but they still did not get in. 

McCombs needs to take on an even larger role on the team in 2012 since the the expectations will be raised a bit.

Rutgers, Khaseem Greene

Despite missing the end of the season due to a ankle injury, Greene led the team in tackles by a landslide (141), and he also had 14 tackles for losses and 3.5 sacks.

The defense returns a few of their studs, but Greene is the one leader who has proven to make this underrated defense productive. 

Louisville, Teddy Bridgewater

This freshman is the obvious choice because of how dominant he was right off the bat. Throwing for 14 TDs (17 total TDs) isn't amazing, but it isn't bad when you realize he only started in 11 games.

Teddy Bridgewater will have high expectations next season, but he showed towards the end of the season that he is worth all the hype and then some.

Syracuse, Ryan Nassib

Despite just falling short of a trip to the postseason, Ryan Nassib had his fair share of solid games—maybe none bigger than against West Virginia where he threw four TDs with only eight incomplete passes for the game.

The Orange need a productive season from the senior quarterback Nassib or else they won't be going bowling for the sixth time in 15 seasons.

Boise State, D.J. Harper

D.J. Harper is really the only player still on the Broncos squad that has been able to see 50 wins in the last four seasons.

However, he still must be granted a sixth year of eligibility, with signs pointing to that happening. Harper has torn his ACL twice and should be the main man for what has been an explosive Broncos offense for many years. 

Air Force, Mike DeWitt

Mike DeWitt caught on fire toward the end of the season by totaling for 12 touchdowns, 10 in the final six games. 

Air Force will be without quarterback Tim Jefferson and running back Asher Clark, so somebody will have to take over, and this Falcon fullback should become a touchdown machine who leads the squad on and off the field.

Colorado State, Shaquil Barrett

Starting quarterback Pete Thomas just left the program so brand new coach Jim McElwain will lean heavily on expected starter, Garrett Grayson.

However, he struggled miserably with six interceptions, and the Rams return arguably their best player overall, Shaquil Barrett.

The junior in 2012 is coming off a season where he led the team in tackles (99) and also had a respectable 4.5 tackles for losses, one interception and 2.5 sacks.

San Diego State, Leon McFadden

Ronnie Hillman declared for the NFL Draft as a redshirt sophomore, but junior Leon McFadden is returning to school and will be leaned on heavily as both the star and the leader.

This is a team that also loses starting quarterback Ryan Lindley and outside linebacker Miles Burris, so clearly McFadden will have a lot asked of him in 2012.

Wyoming, Brett Smith

Brett Smith had a great freshman season by throwing for over 2,600 yards and a total of 30 touchdowns. The Cowboys need to bounce back after getting blown out by Temple in their bowl game, and hopefully Smith will take on more of a leadership role as well.

New Mexico, Deon Long

Bob Davie takes over for a 1-11 squad that only threw for seven touchdowns...the entire season!

Deon Long hauled in four of them and returns for his redshirt sophomore season. He has breakout and leadership potential under Davie as long as the Lobos find a quarterback and stick with him. 

UNLV, Tim Cornett

Tim Cornett will be a junior next season, but he was the only consistent offensive threat in 2011, outside of Phillip Payne at wide receiver.

Cornett found paydirt seven times as a running back, and he also had a yards-per-carry average of 5.6 If the Rebels expect to get back to being a respectable team (4-21 the past two seasons), then Bobby Hauck needs this upcoming junior to take over the team as Mr. Everything.

Houston, D.J. Hayden

D.J. Hayden is one of the few stars returning for a Cougars team that went 12-1 and was in the top 10 towards the end of the season before their C-USA Championship loss to Southern Miss.

Hayden is an explosive defensive back that can play all over the field, and he could turn into an elite corner with solid leadership ability heading into the NFL by this time next season.

Tulsa, Shawn Jackson

Most fans may only think of running backs Trey Watts and Ja'Terian Douglas when it comes to the Tulsa Golden Hurricane.

However, linebacker Shawn Jackson was second on the team with 101 tackles, second in tackles for loss (11) and second in sacks (4.5).

SMU, Margus Hunt

June Jones has raved about this guy all season, but the nation saw firsthand how impressive the 6'8", 295-pound defensive end is.

Margus Hunt is a freak of freaks and will likely be a first-round pick next season, but he will be the leader that the Mustangs have been waiting for to take them to a possible double-digit season.

Rice, Sam McGuffie

The leg and ankle of Sam McGuffie were not healthy in 2011, but the former Michigan Wolverine has a chance to finally shine in a Rice Owl uniform.

One of the faster players in the country coming out of high school a few seasons ago, McGuffie is looking to become the guy who will carry this team on his back for David Bailiff.

Tulane, Trent Mackey

Trent Mackey made the First Team All-Conference USA team last season by absolutely carrying the 83rd-rated defense.

Mackey led the team in tackles (145, most by over 70) and also led the team in tackles for a loss (14).

UTEP, Nick Lamaison

Mike Price would love to end his coaching career on a high note, but he will need his quarterback to become the leader of the team. 

Nick Lamaison threw for 12 TDs, yet he also threw 10 interceptions on the season. If the Miners want to get back to the .500 mark or the postseason, it will begin with the quarterback.

Southern Miss, Tracy Lampley

Tracy Lampley became a star for Southern Miss towards the end of the season because he was multi-dimensional with his ability to bust off a long run or catch a pass in the flats.

Great at running wheel routes, Lampley made an acrobatic catch against Houston that arguably secured the conference championship and knocked out Houston from playing in the Sugar Bowl.

Lampley returns for his senior year and should have no issues becoming the team leader since he slowly became one with Austin Davis in November, when we saw him go off for four touchdowns in the final three games.

UCF, Latavius Murray

Quarterback Jeff Godfrey was benched down the stretch of the season when he struggled, but running back Latavius Murray really went on a surge.

In the season finale against UTEP, Murray touched the ball 23 times for 257 yards and three touchdowns, which really could springboard this team towards a ton of success in the 2012 season.

ECU, Jeremy Grove

Jeremy Grove was not even expected to start at linebacker heading into the 2011 season, but he ended up finishing with a team-high 122 tackles.

The Pirates defense was atrocious, ranking 97th in scoring defense (32 PPG), but Grove proved he has the ability to change all of that.

UAB, Jonathan Perry

The UAB Blazers went just 3-9 last season because they had zero pass rush and were way too inconsistent (or poor) on offense.

Bryan Ellis came in as the starter since he was the returning player, but he struggled and has since since moved on. Jonathan Perry will likely be the new guy in charge, and he should be on his "A" game in 2012 if the Blazers want any chance of making Garrick McGee's first season a successful one.

Marshall, Aaron Dobson

His one-handed grab made national headlines, but Aaron Dobson became the one guy who can take over a game at any time. Dobson has become a motivator just from his play alone, and the way he demands double teams allows his teammates to get great opportunities at succeeding. 

Memphis, Taylor Reed

Taylor Reed eventually beat out Andy Summerlin as the starting quarterback, and he ended the season with a total of 12 touchdowns while throwing just four interceptions.

Reed needs to play well for first-year head coach Justin Fuente because this is still the same Tigers squad that has gone just 5-31 in the past three seasons.

Nevada, Cody Fajardo

Chris Ault had a fairly tough season, going 7-6, mainly because he could not find a quarterback to replace Colin Kaepernick, but it looks Cody Fajardo will be the guy in 2012.

Fajardo totaled 17 touchdowns, which includes 11 rushing touchdowns, in 2011. With Tyler Lantrip now graduating, the onus will be on the incoming redshirt sophomore signal-caller to rise up.

Fresno State, Derek Carr

Derek Carr had a solid sophomore season, and the hope is that he builds an even greater rapport with super-receiver Jalen Saunders.

Saunders hauled in 12 of the 26 TD passes that Carr threw, but this is No. 4's team at the moment.

The defense was the worst in the Pat Hill era, leading to his dismissal. So, in comes Tim DeRuyter—look for him to put everything on his quarterback, because Carr can take it.

Hawaii, Joey Iosefa

At 6'0", 245 pounds, this bulldozer of a back is only going to get more of a workload under Norm Chow. Chow loves opening up the playbook by getting his running backs involved by using them in a variety of ways.

So, I would almost bank on Iosefa becoming the guy who leads a team that has been missing the "it factor" for the past few seasons.

Louisiana Tech, Colby Cameron

This Bulldog quarterback turned out to be the real deal towards the end of the season, and his squad could be extremely dangerous in 2012.

Some have already labeled them as the BCS busters, and it is mainly because Colby Cameron was spinning it like a stud in his seven starts (13 TD, three INT).

Idaho, Conrad Scheidt

Conrad Scheidt will be the senior leader for the Vandals, and it certainly helps that he was third on the team in tackles (93) and second on the team in tackles for losses (eight).

San Jose State, Keith Smith

Keith Smith may not seem like a legit playmaker since his Spartans were 86th in scoring defense (30 PPG) and 93rd in total defensive yards allowed (425), but he was just that.

Smith had 104 total tackles on top of 3.5 tackles for losses which is great news since he was just a sophomore in 2011.

Utah State, Bojay Filimoeatu

Wait, who?

This WAC star (former junior college transfer was First Team All-NJCAA and conference DPOY) in the making for the Aggies had just 41 tackles on the season but was second in tackles for losses with 11 and had three sacks as well.

New Mexico State, Kenny Turner

Kenny Turner was the starting running back for the Aggies this past season, and he delivered nine TDs on 1,009 yards rushing.

He also hauled in passes off of the flats and across the middle of the field, bringing in another three TDs and 514 yards.

Going 4-9 and losing six of their final seven games is not what DeWayne Walker wanted, but hopefully he can count on Turner to accomplish even more in 2012.

Notre Dame, Manti Te'o

Manti Te'o led the team with 128 tackles and 13.5 tackles for losses, but coming back for his senior season will allow the Second Team All-American to perhaps make the First Team in 2012.

Te'o was also second on the team in sacks with five, which is not a great number. However, the defense for the Irish should improve up front which is a scary thought for the opposition since Te'o will improve this team by himself.

Brigham Young, Cody Hoffman

Riley Nelson could be looked at as the leader on the Cougars, but Cody Hoffman has shined the brightest when it counts the most.

His six touchdowns during the last two bowl games were amazing to watch, but Nelson also looks a lot better because he has a guy that can haul in a pass when the ball is thrown anywhere near him.

When making the big plays, BYU just feeds off his star ability.

Navy, Gee Gee Greene

Reaching paydirt seven times was not nearly the best among Midshipmen, but Navy loses a ton of their stars in 2012.

Gee Gee Greene had a solid sophomore season (700-plus yards, five TDs) and Navy is banking on him to go bonkers in his senior season.

Army, Trent Steelman

Totaling for over 1,000 yards of offense isn't so called "special," but at least he totaled for 15 TDs alongside his stud backs Raymond Maples and Jared Hassin.

Army is due to go bowling or at least come a lot closer in 2012, and it will be due to the stellar play and leadership ability of the Black Knight signal-caller.

Toledo, Dan Molls

Dan Molls missed six games, yet he still finished third in tackles (70) and had a respectable 3.5 tackles for losses.

Molls was even dinged up in the Military Bowl, but his Rockets found a way to escape with a one-point victory in the Military Bowl over Air Force.

As the middle linebacker, more will be put on the incoming senior with Matt Campbell entering his first full season as the next Rockets coach since Tim Beckman took the Illinois job.

Western Michigan, Alex Carder

Alex Carder put together a memorable 2011 season by finishing fifth in the country in total offensive yards per game (345).

Carder would have preferred to give his Broncos their first-ever bowl victory and certainly his four interceptions did not help, but it did not take away anything from the season he had.

Losing all-everything wide receiver Jordan White will hurt a bit, but look for the captain to avoid having any issues against a sub-par defensive conference.

Northern Illinois, Martel Moore

Martel Moore put on a show in his GoDaddy.com Bowl performance, and the junior is only going to get better for his senior campaign in the MAC.

Against Arkansas State, he hauled in eight passes for 224 yards and a touchdown. If that was any indication for the expected new starting quarterback Jordan Lynch, just throw it to No. 1.

Central Michigan, Ryan Radcliff

Ryan Radcliff had a solid junior season, totaling for 25 TDs and 3,286 yards in the pass-happy MAC. However, Radcliff threw 14 INTs in the nine losses that his Chips suffered.

If he expects to become the senior leader that his teams needs him to become in 2012, cutting down on the picks could very well put this team back on track to get into the postseason.

Ball State, Travis Freeman

Travis Freeman led the team in tackles (134), was second in sacks (four) and was also fourth in tackles for losses with six.

Freeman helped surpass the expectations a bit by leading the Cardinals to a 6-6 record. The hope is that with a boatload of starters back including their leader, Ball State can reach their third bowl game since 2007.

Eastern Michigan, Justin Cudworth

Justin Cudworth was a junior-college recruit and made an immediate impact by leading the team in tackles (83) and tackles for losses (8.5).

Ron English went just 2-22 after his first two seasons, but he found a way to go 6-6 in lucky year No. 3. Cudworth was selected to the All-MAC team as a linebacker, and there is a chance he will do some real damage in the MAC in 2012.

Ohio, Tyler Tettleton

Totaling for nearly 4,000 yards and a combined 38 touchdowns will allow Tyler Tettleton and the Bobcats to dream big once again in 2012.

Frank Solich has some talented players coming back from a 10-4 season in which they were runners-up in the MAC, but the comeback they pulled off in the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl should all be credited to the Houdini who wears No. 4.

Temple, Matt Brown

Bernard Pierce is currently the Owls all-time leader in total touchdowns (54), rushing touchdowns (53) and points scored (324). 

However, Matt Brown could have had some records of his own had it not been for the future NFL producer. Brown (5'5", 170-pounds) finally has the backfield to himself entering his senior season, and he will lead this team back to the postseason under Steve Addazio.

Miami OH, Zac Dysert

Zac Dysert has one more season in Oxford, and it should be a good one under Don Treadwell. Dysert accounted for 27 TDs and 3,513 yards passing and will be returning the majority of his offensive line back.

Plus, it is not stated enough that the MAC is a conference filled with near offensive juggernauts, and the Redhawks could surprise some despite coming off a 4-8 season.

Kent State, Roosevelt Nix

Roosevelt Nix was coming off a sensational freshman season where he became the first-ever MAC player to win the Defensive Player of the Year, and he was productive enough to garner some attention once again.

He led the team with an impressive 17.5 tackles for losses and also had a team-high 4.5 sacks. Nix made the First Team All-MAC once again in 2011 and will look to carry this team to the postseason for the first time since 1972.

Buffalo, Branden Oliver

Branden Oliver was named to the First Team All-MAC by toting the rock 306 times for 1,395 yards and 13 TDs.

The Bulls only went 3-9, but they could slowly get closer to being relevant in the MAC with a bunch of starters returning, though none is bigger than Oliver.

Bowling Green, Dwayne Woods

Dwayne Woods made the First Team All-MAC squad, thanks to his team-leading 111 total tackles and team-tying 14 tackles for losses.

He even had two interceptions as a linebacker, but the 5-7 Falcons will look at the returning star to lead them back to the postseason (four trips since '02).

Akron, Brian Wagner

Even though I wish I could put one of my favorite mascots in all of sports as the team leader (Zippy), the second-leading tackler in America is the clear-cut leader of the Zips.

Brian Wagner amassed 147 total tackles and even had six tackles for losses for a defense that ranked 116th in scoring defense (38.5 PPG).

Troy, Corey Robinson

The quarterback of the team is always vital in terms of team success, but Corey Robinson's play did not have much of an impact on Troy's 3-9 season.

Robinson threw 21 TDs compared to 15 INTs, but he had ten picks out of the eight losses he played in. If Robinson can revert back to his freshman season where he threw for 28 TDs, the Trojans should be contenders in the Sun Belt again after coming off a disappointing 2011 season.

Florida International, Kedrick Rhodes

Mario Cristobal will be without all-purpose machine T.Y. Hilton, so bank on star running back Kedrick Rhodes to get the bulk of the load.

He handled the pigskin 234 times on the ground, but he also totaled for 1,149 yards and 8 TDs. Despite the Panthers often going in reverse in the Beef O'Brady's Bowl against Marshall, they have nowhere to go but up in 2012.

Louisiana-Monroe, Brent Leonard

Todd\ Berry's Warhawks could not handle a brutal non-conference schedule that included Florida State, TCU and Iowa.

He had three All Sun-Belt performers, but only one is returning: star wide receiver Brent Leonard. Leonard only had four TDs, but he hauled in 69 passes for 751 yards.

The Warhawks need a more productive season from quarterback Kolton Browning, but Leonard should be the one who puts the pressure on opposing defenses.

Middle Tennessee, Omar McLendon

Getting an honorable mention to the All-Sun Belt Team is not too shabby for a defensive end, but the Blue Raiders just want to get back to winning football games. 

Four out of the six seasons for head coach Rick Stockstill have been losing seasons, and they are coming off an awful 2-10 season.

Hopefully, McLendon can make a great enough of an impact where the 96th-rated offense can put some more points on the board since the defense has its own fair share of problems as well (110th scoring defense, 37 PPG).

Arkansas State, Ryan Aplin

Ryan Aplin is easily the main man in Jonesboro, Arkansas for the Red Wolves. The Sun Belt champions did not have their best showing against Northern Illinois after they were swamped 38-20.

Aplin still was named to the First Team All-Sun Belt Team at quarterback thanks to his 29 total touchdowns. Look for more of the same in 2012 from one of the most talented and yet least appreciated signal-callers in college football.

North Texas, Zachary Orr

Sophomore middle linebacker Zachary Orr made the Second Team All-Sun Belt Team thanks to his 74 tackles and seven tackles for losses.

This North Texas defense was just 97th in total defensive yards allowed (429) which brings up the question: Just how much would this team drop without Orr?

Florida Atlantic, Randell Johnson

Outside linebacker Randell Johnson earned Honorable Mention in the Sun Belt thanks to his 92 tackles, 14.5 tackles for losses and four sacks.

Carl Pelini will lean heavily on this linebacker for the next few seasons, and we should expect the numbers to improve (103rd in scoring defense, 34 PPG).

Western Kentucky, Andrew Jackson

Andrew Jackson put together a solid sophomore season as he was named to the First Team All-Sun Belt Team. He had 109 total tackles and 17.5 tackles for losses along with 3.5 sacks.

The Hilltoppers have only been in the FBS for three seasons, but they are coming off a 7-5 season. They were stunned when they didn't get an invite to a bowl game, and the loss of star running back Bobby Rainey will be tough.

However, head coach Willie Taggart should lean heavily on Jackson since the other returning starters will only help him become an even bigger star in 2012.

Louisiana-Lafayette, Javone Lawson

Javone Lawson went bonkers in the New Orleans Bowl by hauling in nine passes for 193 yards and two touchdowns, and the Ragin' Cajuns offense looks legit for the near future.

They amassed 568 yards of offense in their first bowl victory since 1943, but Lawson is the one receiver who could put up Fred Biletnikoff invitee type of numbers.

Southern Alabama, Demetre Baker

Being a part of the Sun Belt will make things interesting for the Jaguars, but redshirt sophomore Demtre Baker (6'1", 215 pounds) should be the goal-line vulture in 2012 that helps the team avoid field goals.

Massachusetts, Perry McIntyre

Finishing second on the team in tackles (116) and first in tackles for losses (11.5) puts Perry McIntyre as the team's impact player, team leader and most important player in order to achieve success in their first season in the FBS (MAC).

Texas State, Terrence Franks

Terrence Franks (5'10", 184 pounds) will be the expected to be the starting running back thanks to his nine TDs and 863 yards rushing. He was just a redshirt freshman one season ago which should give the Bobcats some decent hopes in the WAC next season.

UTSA, Marlon Smith

Marlon Smith (6'6", 225 pounds) was a star for the Roadrunners in 2011, and he will be counted on to have yet another sensational season.

He is coming off a team-leading 10 tackles for losses and eight sacks, which defines beast mode for defensive ends. The WAC had better recognize No. 45 when he lines up, or the new kids on the block could be making a bigger impact than some may anticipate.

Well, that is it, friends!

All 124 teams have been covered, and it is time to debate which players on your favorite teams are your choice for the so called "undeniable team leaders" because, well, there are only 32 weeks remaining before we get things started all over again.

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