Boise State Football Recruiting: Grading Every Commitment

The 2012 Boise State recruiting class is probably the most anticipated in recent memory. With so many departing superstars, many fans are curious to see what the future might bring.

There are a total of 24 players listed in this year's class. However, six of them are already enrolled at BSU. It will be intriguing to watch this young class develop.

Which of these 24 players will rise to become superstars?

Will Nick Patti be the next freshman phenom?

Will any of these players make an immediate impact?

These are the kinds of questions fans are asking. Well, in an attempt to satisfy that curiosity, we have decided to grade each member of the 2012 class by his ability and possible impact. 

Let's take a look. 

Nick Patti

Player: Nick Patti

Position: Quarterback

Size: 5'11", 195 pounds

Recruited From: Dr. Phillips High School—Orlando, Fla.

Status: Enrolled at BSU

Nick Patti was 34-4 as a starter in high school. He is a proven winner and is a student of the game. He enrolled in January to get a head start in competing for the starting job.

The Idaho Statesman quoted coach Chris Petersen about young Mr. Patti:

"

[He] can throw, he’s accurate, he sees the field, he can run. He played at a very high level of football. We had Nick targeted for a long, long time and Nick had us targeted as well.

"

Immediate Impact: A

He will compete right away for the starting job, which will make everyone better.

Athletic Ability: A

He is fast, strong, agile and athletic. Add to that the accurate and strong arm he is blessed with, and you have yourself the makings of a star.

Future Impact Prediction: A

All indicators are that he will be the kind of player that shines for the Broncos. 

Overall Grade: A

Devan Demas

Player: Devan Demas

Position: Running Back

Size: 5'9", 176 pounds

Recruited From: Cypress Creek High School—Houston, Texas

Status: Will enroll in August

Devan Demas is an all-around kind of player. He is quick and makes people miss. He comes from the same high school in Houston, Texas as D.J. Harper, and he is the same kind of player.

Look for him to develop into a solid contributor. 

Immediate Impact: C

He probably won't be the main guy, but he will probably get a few touches.

Athletic Ability: A

He had 2,114 all-purpose yards and 26 touchdowns in his senior season.

Future Impact: B+

Demas looks like the type of guy who can have a solid career. He may not be the biggest star on the team, but look for him to become a heavy contributor. 

Overall Grade: B

Jack Fields

Player: Jack Fields

Position: Running Back

Size: 5'10", 196 pounds

Recruited From: Americas High School—El Paso, Texas

Status: Will enroll in August

With all the talk about Nick Patti possibly being the next Kellen Moore, you might want to start talking about Jack Fields as the next Doug Martin.

While it is not fair to any player to compare him to past superstars, in Fields' case, it might be more than appropriate.

He has the same kind of size, speed, strength and toughness as Doug Martin. In fact, he is a bit bigger than Doug was as a freshman.

Immediate Impact: A-

Look for Fields to have a significant amount of carries his freshman season. He will no doubt surprise opponents, and by mid-season, he should no longer be a secret.

Athletic Ability: A

He rushed for over 2,400 yards and 25 touchdowns as a senior. If you watch his game film, you will no doubt come away with the feeling that this guy is something special.

Future Impact: A

If Fields continues to develop and stays healthy, there is no doubt he will be a star.

Overall Grade: A

D.J. Dean

Player: D.J. Dean

Position: Wide Receiver

Size: 6'1", 180 pounds

Recruited From: Eagle High School—Eagle, Idaho

Status: Will enroll in August

Dean is a talented guy. He is versatile and will do whatever is asked of him. He could play receiver, some defense and then finish it all off with some special teams.

In fact, look for him to make a name on special teams.

Immediate Impact: C-

He will no doubt develop as a receiver, but his immediate impact will be as a role player on special teams. He should do well there, but it might take a year or two before he gets significant production on offense. 

Athletic Ability: B+

He can do anything you ask of him. He is extremely talented and versatile.

Future Impact: B

He should be one of those consistent, hard-nosed, team players that coach Chris Petersen loves.

Overall Grade: B

Shane Rhodes

Player: Shane Rhodes

Position: Wide Receiver

Size: 5'7", 160 pounds

Recruited From: Klein Collins High School—Spring, Texas

Status: Will enroll in August

Rhodes is a receiver, but he is also an incredible return guy. He is electric, and coach Chris Petersen and the staff are very high on him. His game film will make your jaw drop.

Look for him to make an impact with some incredible returns, but that might not be in 2012.

Immediate Impact: C

He should make his way onto the field in the return game. When he does, he will no doubt have some incredible plays. However, he may need a little more time to bulk up and develop. Look for 2013 to be his breakout year. 

Athletic Ability: A

He is probably going to be the quickest guy on the team.

Future Impact: A

If he stays healthy, you will see this guy become a huge second-speed guy. Look for him to be used like Jeremy Avery, but with even more impact.

Overall Grade: B+

Connor Peters

Player: Connor Peters

Position: Tight End

Size: 6'4", 245 pounds

Recruited From: De La Salle High School and Laney College

Status: Enrolled at Boise State

He is big, he is strong, and he can run. Look for this guy to hit the ground running.

Immediate Impact: B+

Peters is ready to go. Look for him to be competing for a starting spot in 2012. If the Bronco offense continues its trend of using multiple tight ends, then Peters will no doubt get a fair amount of touches next season. 

Athletic Ability: B+

What he lacks in agility, he makes up for in strength.

Future Impact: B+

Peters should be one of those constant contributors and go-to guys on third down.

Overall Grade: B+

Hayden Plinke

Player: Hayden Plinke

Position: Tight End

Size: 6'4", 240 pounds

Recruited From: Glencoe High School—Hillsboro, Ore.

Status: Enrolled at Boise State

Hayden Plinke is a hard worker and continues to better himself. Look for him to develop a bit more before contributing.

Immediate Impact: C-

He probably won't be the impact player that Connor Peters will be, but in time, he should develop into a good player.

Athletic Ability: B

He is getting bigger, and with his abilities, he could become a force.

Future Impact: C+

He should be a good role player.

Overall Grade: C+

Armand Nance

Player: Armand Nance

Position: Fullback

Size: 6'2", 245 pounds

Recruited From: Spring Dekaney High School—Houston, Texas

Status: Will enroll in August

Do yourself a favor, and watch Armand Nance's game film. He was named Mr. Versatile for his high school team and was part of the 5A Division 2 state championship team.

Immediate Impact: C

He may need some time to develop and learn the system, but when he does, watch out.

Athletic Ability: A

As mentioned, he is Mr. Versatile.

Future Impact: B+

Look for Nance to become a key force in the Broncos' running game. 

Overall Grade: B

Steven Baggett

Player: Steven Baggett

Position: Offensive Line

Size: 6'3", 255 pounds

Recruited From: Martin High School—Arlington, Texas

Status: Will enroll in August

Baggett started 38 games as a varsity player in high school. He is built like a lineman and has embraced the role.

Immediate Impact: C

He will need some development.

Athletic Ability: C

He is big and strong, so what else could you ask for?

Future Impact: B

He will be one of those good, very consistent linemen we are getting used to from Boise State teams. 

Overall Grade: C+

Travis Averill

Player: Travis Averill

Position: Offensive Line

Size: 6'4", 270 pounds

Recruited From: Servite High School—Anaheim, Calif.

Status: Will enroll in August

Averill has the chance to be a special player. He has a great attitude and proved he could dominate at a very high level in high school.

Immediate Impact: C+

He may get some play early, but he could also take a year to develop.

Athletic Ability: A-

Coaches are extremely impressed by his athletic ability.

Future Impact: A+

Travis Averill could become a special player at either center or guard. It will be interesting how coach Chris Strausser chooses to utilize him.

Overall Grade: A

Mario Yakoo

Player: Mario Yakoo

Position: Offensive Line

Size: 6'4", 320 pounds

Recruited From: Steele Canyon High School—San Diego, Calif.

Status: Will enroll in August

Yakoo was a great late addition to the Bronco recruiting class.

Immediate Impact: C-

He will most likely grayshirt. He is only 17, and the Bronco coaches will no doubt want to develop him while they have the time.

Athletic Ability: B

He is 320 pounds, and yet, he still moves well.

Future Impact: A

He has the potential to dominate for the Broncos.

Overall Grade: B+

Sean Wale

Player: Sean Wale

Position: Kicker/Punter

Size: 6'2", 175 pounds

Recruited From: La Habra High School—La Habra, Calif.

Status: Will enroll in August

Is Wale the answer to the Broncos' kicking woes? Maybe, but only time will tell.

Immediate Impact: B

He will either win the spot or make the other kickers better. Either way, the Broncos win.

Athletic Ability: C

He is a kicker who knows his role.

Future Impact: B

He should be a nice addition to the Broncos. His future impact will really be judged on those key field goals.

Overall Grade: B-

Chaz Anderson

Player: Chaz Anderson

Position: Cornerback

Size: 5'10", 164 pounds

Recruited From: Loyola High School—Los Angeles, Calif.

Status: Will enroll in August

Immediate Impact: C-

He will probably need to develop some before finding the field.

Athletic Ability: A

He is very athletic. He played both sides of the ball in high school. He has been described as "fluid" and having great feet.

Future Impact: B+

He should develop into a great corner for the Broncos.

Overall Grade: B

Donte Deayon

Player: Donte Deayon

Position: Cornerback

Size: 5'9", 155 pounds

Recruited From: Summit High School—Fontana, Calif.

Status: Will enroll in August

Immediate Impact: C-

He will probably hit the weights and develop some before coaches make him a role player.

Athletic Ability: A

Coaches are very high on this guy. He had 24 interceptions as a high school player. 

Future Impact: B+

This guy should become a great corner for BSU. He has the tools and only needs to develop.

Overall Grade: B

Chanceller James

Player: Chanceller James

Position: Safety

Size: 6'2", 190 pounds

Recruited From: Steele Canyon High School—San Diego, Calif.

Status: Will enroll in August

James is a physical player with speed and good instincts. Look for him to compete to play in 2012.

Immediate Impact: B

He may be competing for a spot in 2012. It will challenge those around him.

Athletic Ability: A

He is the kind of safety Boise State fans are getting used to. In the tradition of George Iloka, James can certainly make his mark.

Future Impact: A-

He should undoubtedly be an impact player for the Broncos.

Overall Grade: A-

Chris Santini

Player: Chris Santini

Position: Nickelback/Linebacker

Size: 6'1", 208 pounds

Recruited From: Leland High School—San Jose, Calif.

Status: Will enroll in August

Santini is a playmaker. If you watch his film, he is all over the field.

Immediate Impact: C-

It doesn't look like he will make his mark right away, but if he comes in ready, you never know.

Athletic Ability: B+

He gives everything on the field and has the tools to back it up.

Future Impact: B+

He should become an effective linebacker for BSU.

Overall Grade: B

Ben Weaver

Player: Ben Weaver

Position: Linebacker

Size: 6'1", 225 pounds

Recruited From: Klein High School—Spring, Texas

Status: Will enroll in August

He plays like Byron Hout, but he might have the potential to be even better.

Immediate Impact: B

Look for Weaver to be on "The Blue" in 2012. He should be competing for a starting spot come practice time.

Athletic Ability: A

He is a hard worker to boot. Look for his abilities to make him a star at BSU.

Future Impact: A

Coaches are high on this guy, and so was Texas A&M. Weaver turned the Aggies down and stuck with his commitment to Boise State.

Overall Grade: A-

Andrew Pint

Player: Andrew Pint

Position: Linebacker

Size: 6'1", 220 pounds

Recruited From: Valor Christian High School—Highlands Ranch, Colo.

Status: Will enroll in August

He is a hard worker and plays the linebacker position well.

Immediate Impact: C-

He probably won't be an immediate player.

Athletic Ability: B

He is athletic, but he also has tremendous heart.

Future Impact: C+

He should be a constant contributor to the Bronco defense over the years.

Overall Grade: C+

Chris Collins

Player: Chris Collins

Position: Linebacker

Size: 6'1", 208 pounds

Recruited From:  Santa Monica High School—Santa Monica, Calif.

Status: Will enroll in August

Collins is a physical player and can move.

Immediate Impact: C-

Look for him to grayshirt and use the time to develop.

Athletic Ability: B-

He is physical and athletic, but he needs some improved size.

Future Impact: C+

He may, in fact, become more than a C+. However, it will all depend on what he does with the development of his strength and size.

Overall Grade: C+

Tyler Gray

Player: Tyler Gray

Position: Linebacker

Size: 6'3", 215 pounds

Recruited From: Templeton High School—Templeton, Calif.

Status: Enrolled at Boise State

Hawaii's loss is the Broncos' gain. After a Warriors coaching change, Gray has decided to join the Broncos.

Immediate Impact: B+

He should contribute right away.

Athletic Ability: A-

He is an exciting player with good change of direction.

Future Impact: A

If he continues to develop, stays healthy and keeps his love for the game, he will become a star for the Broncos.

Overall Grade: A

Elliot Hoyte

Player: Elliot Hoyte

Position: Defensive Tackle

Size: 6'4", 275 pounds

Recruited From: Tavistock, England

Status: Enrolled at Boise State

Hoyte will be interesting to watch. He is a raw talent that the Broncos will develop.

Immediate Impact: C-

He probably won't be an immediate impact guy. He will need some development time.

Athletic Ability: C+

He is tough, but his athletic ability needs some improvement.

Future Impact: B

He looks to have all of the potential to become a good player for the Broncos.

Overall Grade: C+

Sam McCaskill

Player: Sam McCaskill

Position: Defensive End

Size: 6'3", 230 pounds

Recruited From: Sheldon High School—Eugene, Ore.

Status: Will enroll in August

McCaskill was a late commit, but you can bet Bronco coaches are thankful.

Immediate Impact: C-

He probably won't be an early contributor, but he has all the tools to become a great player.

Athletic Ability: B+

He had 115 tackles and 16 sacks his senior year.

Future Impact: A

He looks like he could become a special player.

Overall Grade: B+

Darien Barrett

Player: Darien Barrett

Position: Defensive End/Linebacker

Size: 6'3", 215 pounds

Recruited From: Inglewood High School—Inglewood, Calif.

Status: Will enroll in August

Darien Barrett will be utilized as a defensive end/linebacker much like Shea McClellin.

Immediate Impact: B

He may find the field in 2012, but even if he doesn't, he will make his presence felt.

Athletic Ability: A

To be mentioned as a possible replacement for Shea McClellin, you had better be athletic.

Future Impact: A

Again, he is one of those players that if he stays healthy, he should become a star.

Overall Grade: A-

Demarcus Lawrence

Player: Demarcus Lawrence

Position: Defensive End

Size: 6'4", 248 pounds

Recruited From: Butler CC

Status: Enrolled at Boise State

Demarcus Lawrence is a name you should remember, and soon, you won't forget. He chose Boise State over Tennessee. He is a junior college transfer, but he still has three years of eligibility.

Immediate Impact: A

He will no doubt be in the rotation come fall.

Athletic Ability: A+

He is big, strong, fast and explosive.

Future Impact: A+

He is poised to become a legend at BSU. That may sound like lofty expectations, but all you have to do is see this guy play, and you will understand.

Overall Grade: A+