Tough Shoes to Fill: Five Players We'll Miss this College Football Season

While we all wish the college football season started this weekend, the reality is we're still a solid two months away from kickoff.

Players coming and going are part of the college game—and part of its charm—but every year there seems to be just a few guys we wish would stick around just a little longer. Some made impressions from day one, others seemed like they had played forever. Let's look at a few who definitely made their mark.

LeSean McCoy, RB, Pittsburgh

I know Big East defenses and defensive coordinators won't be missing him but us fans will as will his coaches. McCoy was a home run threat every time he touched the ball and still had seemingly a ton of eligibility left.

Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech

You can call it a safe bet that Texas Tech is going to have an effective offense with a QB who can distribute the ball. But how about a guy who comes through in the clutch like Crabtree did against Texas. As years go by we'll still continue to see that play over and over again.

Shonn Greene, RB, Iowa

Greene came out of seemingly nowhere and before the season ended his name was everywhere. The expectations were modest for the Hawkeyes but no one ended up being too surprised when Iowa knocked off undefeated Penn State. Greene was a big part of getting Kirk Ferentz off of the hot seat and getting him back to what he does best, coaching.

Mark Sanchez, QB, USC

I'm one of the believers who thinks Sanchez already has the tools to play in the NFL and agreed with his decision to go early. I also think another year would have done nothing but help him, and his departure gives the Trojans an out if things get rough this season.

Pat White, QB, West Virginia

While White didn't leave early, the mere fact he stayed four years and played most of them makes him seem like a fixture in Morgantown. Never got the recognition for his contributions as just a QB but as a fan of the college game, it's just tough not to like this guy.