College Football Rankings: Power Ranking the Best WR from Each Ranked Team

Whether it's taking a five-yard slant pattern 95 yards for a TD, or leaping over the secondary for the deep ball, WRs make some of the most exciting plays in football.

QBs love them and DBs hate them, however, you can't help but have respect for a guy who has supreme athletic ability.

Let's face it, anyone with their level of athleticism deserves to be a little cocky.

That said, here's to pitting the best WR on each ranked team against one another.

NOTE: To view a preseason Top 25 poll click here.

25. Josh Huff, Oregon

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CORVALLIS, OR - DECEMBER 04: Josh Huff #4 of the Oregon Ducks runs the ball against the Oregon State Beavers during the 114th Civil War on December 4, 2010 at the Reser Stadium in Corvallis, Oregon. (Photo by Jonathan Ferrey/Getty Images)

2010 STATS

RECEPTIONS: 19

YARDS: 303

AVERAGE: 15.9

TDS: Three

Entering their junior years are QB Darron Thomas and RB LaMichael James.

Therefore, it's easy to suspect that defenses will underestimate Josh Huff.

Now, although his lack of stats are due to WRs like Jeff Maehl and D.J. Davis in 2010, Huff has a chip on his shoulder in 2011.

So with that said, it will be interesting to watch a player on a national championship contending team who has something to prove (not only to his teammates, coaches, fans and the media, but also to himself). 

24. A.J. Guyton, Central Florida

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AUSTIN, TX - NOVEMBER 07: Safety Ben Wells #5 of the Texas Longhorns tackles wide receiver A.J. Guyton #3 of the UCF Knights on November 7, 2009 at Darrell K Royal - Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Texas. Texas won 35-3. (Photo by Brian Bahr/Getty Im

2010 STATS

RECEPTIONS: 28

YARDS: 353

AVERAGE: 12.6

TDS: Three

After 2010, the Knights lost three senior WRs to graduation, while A.J. Guyton returns for his senior year.

Well, as the most experienced wide out coming back, he may still be under the radar as QB Jeffrey Godfrey and RBs Ronnie Weaver and Latavius Murray remain.

Therefore, don't be surprised if Guyton puts up All-Conference worthy numbers.

23. Deonte Thompson, Florida

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GAINESVILLE, FL - SEPTEMBER 5: Deonte Thompson #6 of the Florida Gators lines up during the game against the Charleston Southern Buccaneers at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium on September 5, 2009 in Gainesville, Florida. (Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images)

2010 STATS

RECEPTIONS: 38

YARDS: 570

AVERAGE: 15.0

TDS: One

Let's be honest, the Gators offense was definitely in a rebuilding year for 2010.

It was hard to adjust post-Tim Tebow, however it could have been much worse.

That said, leading WR Deonte Thompson returns for QB John Brantley with now a full year under center.

Opponents will most likely key-in on RB Jeffery Demps though, so don't be surprised if Thompson has a breakout season in 2011.

22. Tavarres King, Georgia

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JACKSONVILLE, FL - OCTOBER 31: Tavarres King #12 of the Georgia Bulldogs against the Florida Gators at Jacksonville Municipal Stadium on October 31, 2009 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

2010 STATS

RECEPTIONS: 27

YARDS: 504

AVERAGE: 18.7

TDS: Three

It's got to be difficult gaining recognition with a player like A.J. Green in the same position.

However, with Green graduating to the NFL draft along with fellow wide-out Kris Durham, junior-to-be Tavarres King now has the torch.

Therefore, expect QB Aaron Murray to send more targets in King's direction as the Bulldogs try to kick-start 2011 after a disappointing ending in 2010.

21. Rueben Randle, LSU

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AUBURN, AL - OCTOBER 23: Rueben Randle #2 of the LSU Tigers against the Auburn Tigers at Jordan-Hare Stadium on October 23, 2010 in Auburn, Alabama. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

2010 STATS

RECEPTIONS: 33

YARDS: 544

AVERAGE: 16.5

TDS: Three

Although the Tigers lose some key offensive players in RB Stevan Ridley and WR Terrence Toliver, Rueben Randle has some legitimate potential.

He was second on the team in receptions (tied), yards and TDs.

Now, a lot does rely on the play of QB Jordan Jefferson, who had a down year in 2010 after a solid campaign in 2009.

So, in order for Les Miles' offense to improve, Jefferson and Randle will need to play more pitch and catch.

20. Josh Boyce, TCU

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FORT WORTH, TX - OCTOBER 16: Wide receiver Josh Boyce #82 of the TCU Horned Frogs scores a touchdown against line backer Jadon Wagner #49 the BYU Cougars at Amon G. Carter Stadium on October 16, 2010 in Fort Worth, Texas. TCU beat BYU 31-3. (Photo by T

2010 STATS

RECEPTIONS: 34

YARDS: 646

AVERAGE: 19.0

TDS: Six

With QB Andy Dalton graduating to the NFL draft, the TCU offense will be in somewhat of a rebuilding process.

However, with Josh Boyce back to lead the WRs, not all hope is lost after he led the team in yards and average, while being second in TDs and receptions.

Now, there will be a young an inexperienced QB in Casey Pachall under center, so do expect the Horned Frogs to run more.

But, when coach Gary Patterson switches gears to flight mode, Boyce will be the primary target.

19. Chad Bumphis, Mississippi State

2010 STATS

RECEPTIONS: 44

YARDS: 634

AVERAGE: 14.4

TDS: Five

The best WR returns for Mississippi State in 2011, so as you can imagine, QB Chris Relf is delighted.

That said, the Bulldog offense should hit the ground running this fall, with Chad Bumphis having All-SEC potential.

18. Brandon Kinnie, Nebraska

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ARLINGTON, TX - DECEMBER 5: Brandon Kinnie #84 of the Nebraska Cornhuskers leaps for the catch against Chykie Brown #8 of the Texas Longhorns during Big 12 Football Championship game at Cowboys Stadium on December 5, 2009 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ja

2010 STATS

RECEPTIONS: 44

YARDS: 494

AVERAGE: 11.2

TDS: Five

For as little as Nebraska throws the rock, Brandon Kinnie put up some solid stats last season.

Now, with senior Niles Paul gone to the draft, Kinnie will receive more balls in 2011.

As long as the run game maintains its consistency, we should see an increase in his numbers.

Also, with the versatility of QB Taylor Martinez, Kinnie is not the ultimately the primary focus for defenses.

That said, there's no reason why he can't gain over 1,000 yards receiving on the year.

17. Tyler Shoemaker, Boise State

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LAS VEGAS, NV - DECEMBER 22: Tyler Shoemaker #89 of the Boise State Broncos is unable to catch a pass at the goal line in front of Lamar Chapman #21 of the Utah Utes during the MAACO Bowl Las Vegas at Sam Boyd Stadium December 22, 2010 in Las Vegas, Nevad

2010 STATS

RECEPTIONS: 32

YARDS: 582

AVERAGE: 18.2

TDS: Five

With seniors Austin Pettis and Titus Young gone to the NFL draft, Craig Shoemaker should become QB Kellen Moore's favorite target.

Amongst the current players in the Broncos receiving core, Shoemaker led them throughout the aforementioned statistics.

Therefore, coach Chris Petersen's offense shouldn't miss a step come time for kickoff 2011.

16. Emory Blake, Auburn

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GLENDALE, AZ - JANUARY 10: Emory Blake #80 of the Auburn Tigers runs down field against the Oregon Ducks during the Tostitos BCS National Championship Game at University of Phoenix Stadium on January 10, 2011 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox

2010 STATS

RECEPTIONS: 33

YARDS: 554

AVERAGE: 16.8

TDS: Eight

For as much attention that was given to QB Cam Newton last season, it's reasonable to suspect that Auburn's WRs went unnoticed.

However, folks in the SEC must be aware of Emory Blake, as he led the Tigers with eight receiving TDs.

That said, more respect from defenses should be shown his way since he will be leading the Tiger wideouts in 2011.

15. Chris Owusu, Stanford

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PALO ALTO, CA - SEPTEMBER 18: Chris Owusu #81 of the Stanford Cardinal in action during their game against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons at Stanford Stadium on September 18, 2010 in Palo Alto, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)

2010 STATS

RECEPTIONS: 25

YARDS: 396

AVERAGE: 15.8

TDS: Three

In 2010, WRs Doug Baldwin and Ryan Whalen combined for 1,296 yards receiving, 99 receptions and 11 TDs.

Well, both have gone onto the NFL draft, so look for Chris Owusu to take control of the wideouts.

However, his health is a concern as he missed six games last season due to injury.

If he can stay healthy and play consistently well, QB Andrew Luck and the Stanford offense will be in store for another great season.

14. Marquis Maze, Alabama

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TUSCALOOSA, AL - OCTOBER 16: Marquis Maze #4 of the Alabama Crimson Tide against the Ole Miss Rebels at Bryant-Denny Stadium on October 16, 2010 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

2010 STATS

RECEPTIONS: 38

YARDS: 557

AVERAGE: 14.7

TDS: Three

Despite much of the attention going to Julio Jones all year, Marquis Maze performed very well last season.

Fast-forward to 2011, and Maze becomes the Crimson Tide's primary receiver.

It's not going to be easy filling the shoes of Jones, but then again the expectations would be too unrealistic (especially with a new QB in A.J. McCarren under center).

However, it still should be a solid year for Maze since the Tide (as of recent) have done more reloading than rebuilding. 

13. Nick Toon, Wisconsin

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PASADENA, CA - JANUARY 01: Wide receiver Nick Toon #1 of the Wisconsin Badgers makes a catch against the TCU Horned Frogs during the 97th Rose Bowl game on January 1, 2011 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)

2010 STATS

RECEPTIONS: 36

YARDS: 459

AVERAGE: 12.8

TDS: Three

Every time Nick Toon is mentioned, don't you initially think Nickelodeon?

Additionally, his father Al Toon may be remembered (stand-out WR for the New York Jets during the New York Sack Exchange-era).

Now, much like Nebraska, Wisconsin loves to run the rock, so don't expect flashy numbers from Toon.

However, he's very efficient and consistent, so keep an eye on him during key situations.

12. Jarrett Boykin, Virginia Tech

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ATLANTA - SEPTEMBER 05: Jarrett Boykin #81 of the Virginia Tech Hokies against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game at Georgia Dome on September 5, 2009 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

2010 STATS

RECEPTIONS: 53

YARDS: 847

AVERAGE: 16.0

TDS: Six

With QB Tyrod Taylor spreading the ball around so much, all the wideouts got a piece of the cake in 2010.

Jarrett Boykin however, received the biggest slice after leading the team in receptions, yards and TDs.

Now that Taylor is gone to the draft, Boykin will need to step up.

So, it may be tough to repeat the 2010 performance with a new QB Logan Thomas under center, but have trust that Frank Beemer will keep things rolling. Because he will.

11. Joe Adams, Arkansas

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NEW ORLEANS, LA - JANUARY 04: Joe Adams #3 of the Arkansas Razorbacks catches a pass against the Ohio State Buckeyes during the Allstate Sugar Bowl at the Louisiana Superdome on January 4, 2011 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Ima

2010 STATS

RECEPTIONS: 50

YARDS: 813

AVERAGE: 16.3

TDS: Six

Even though the Razorbacks lose QB Ryan Mallet to the draft, Tyler Wilson does have the ability to keep the offense on track.

However, much will rely on the experienced WR core led by Joe Adams.

Adams, who led Arkansas in receptions, yards and tied for the most TDs, will be the main target.

The question is, how quickly can he and Wilson get into a rhythm to maintain the high scoring flow?

10. Bert Reed, Florida State

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RALEIGH, NC - OCTOBER 28: Bert Reed #83 of the Florida State Seminoles against the North Carolina State Wolfpack during their game at Carter-Finley Stadium on October 28, 2010 in Raleigh, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)

2010 STATS

RECEPTIONS: 58

YARDS: 614

AVERAGE: 10.6

TDS: Two

Despite only reaching the zone twice, Bert Reed still led the Seminoles in yards and receptions.

The stats may not be too sexy, but QB Christian Ponder dished the rock around like John Stockton, so everyone was rather consistent across the board.

That said, QB E.J. Manuel does have the ability to put up some respectable numbers after receiving playing time in six games (including the ACC Championship and Chick-fil-A Bowl).

With Bert Reed leading the way, all four WRs who had 30 or more receptions last season are back.

As long as Reed sets the tone, Manuel should follow in grasping the chemistry throughout Florida State's offense. 

9. DeVier Posey, Ohio State

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STATE COLLEGE, PA - NOVEMBER 7: Wide receiver DeVier Posey #8 of the Ohio State Buckeyes catches a 62 yard touchdown pass during a game against the Penn State Nittany Lions on November 7, 2009 at Beaver Stadium in State College, Pennsylvania. Ohio State w

2010 STATS

RECEPTIONS: 53

YARDS: 848

AVERAGE: 16.0

TDS: Seven

Despite being suspended along with coach Tressel and QB Terrelle Pryor for the first five games of 2011, DeVier Posey still remains a threat outside.

The question is how quickly he can get into mid-season form without playing until Week 6.

Also, his chemistry and timing with Pryor will be crucial.

Then, we will see how great they truly are; by how fast the Buckeyes' offense picks up once everyone returns.  

8. B.J. Cunningham, Michigan State

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STATE COLLEGE, PA - NOVEMBER 27: Wide receiver B.J. Cunningham #3 of the Michigan State Spartans runs with the ball during a game against the Penn State Nittany Lions on November 27, 2010 at Beaver Stadium in State College, Pennsylvania. The Spartans won

2010 STATS

RECEPTIONS: 50

YARDS: 611

AVERAGE: 12.2

TDS: Nine

Losing fellow WR Mark Dell to graduation will be tough, but with QB Kirk Cousins back, WR B.J. Cunningham should have another solid season.

Also, he may not even receive to much attention from defenses as RB Edwin Baker comes off a season where he ran for over 1,200 yards.

Come time for kickoff, Cunningham should make even more noise in 2011 as he will be the Spartans main big-play threat on offense.

7. Tavon Austin, West Virginia

2010 STATS

RECEPTIONS: 58

YARDS: 787

AVERAGE: 13.6

TDS: Eight

Even though he's technically listed as an RB, Tavon Austin has contributed more to the Mountaineers as a WR.

A second-team All-Big East WR selection in 2010, Austin should become the focal point of the offense with RB Noel Devine gone to the draft.

That said, he may earn more carries in 2011, but expect him to continue as a wideout as well.

6. T.J. Moe, Missouri

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COLUMBIA, MO - NOVEMBER 13: Receiver T.J. Moe #28 of the Missouri Tigers carries the ball as Tre Walker #50 of the Kansas State Wildcats defends during the game on November 13, 2010 at Faurot Field/Memorial Stadium in Columbia, Missouri. (Photo by Jamie

2010 STATS

RECEPTIONS: 92

YARDS: 1,045

AVERAGE: 11.4

TDS: Six

Coming off a career year in 2010, WR T.J. Moe earned second-team All-Big 12 as a sophomore.

However, it may be tough for him to replicate that performance with new and inexperienced QB James Franklin under center.

So, will Moe have an encore and earn all-Big 12 honors again?

Well, if 2011 is much like 2010, he will make a solid case for the nation's best receiver since a new QB will be at the helm.

5. Jeff Fuller, Texas A&M

Brian Bahr/Getty Images

AUSTIN, TX - NOVEMBER 27: Wide receiver Jeff Fuller #8 of the Texas A&M Aggies pulls in a touchdown pass against cornerback Deon Beasley #7 of the Texas Longhorns in the fourth quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium November 27, 2008 in Austin,

2010 STATS

RECEPTIONS: 72

YARDS: 1,066

AVERAGE: 14.8

TDS: 12

A first-team all Big 12 selection last year, Jeff Fuller has All-American potential in 2011.

Now, despite QB Jerrod Johnson gone to the draft, QB Ryan Tannehill has a significant amount of experience after playing in the final seven games.

As long as the Aggies can continue their two-dimensional offense with Cyrus Gray in the backfield, Fuller will be very exciting to watch this fall.

4. Michael Floyd, Notre Dame

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NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 20: Michael Floyd #3 of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish rushes against the Army Black Knights at Yankee Stadium on November 20, 2010 in the Bronx borough of New York City. (Photo by Nick Laham/Getty Images)

2010 STATS

RECEPTIONS: 79

YARDS: 1,025

AVERAGE: 13.0

TDS: 12

Head coach Brian Kelly and QB Dane Crist had to be elated when WR Michael Floyd announced his return to Notre Dame.

Coming off a breakout season, Floyd will have added pressure in 2011, mainly due to the Irish's expectations.

Additionally, it won't be easier to duplicate 2010 since he's Notre Dame's biggest offensive threat.

So the question remains, how will he respond to the pressure?

3. Alshon Jeffery, South Carolina

Mike Zarrilli/Getty Images

TUSCALOOSA - OCTOBER 17: Alshon Jeffery of the South Carolina Gamecocks returns a kick during the game against the Alabama Crimson Tide at Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa, Alabama on October 17, 2009. The Crimson Tide beat the Gamecocks 20-6. (Phot

2010 STATS

RECEPTIONS: 88

YARDS: 1,517

AVERAGE: 17.2

TDS: Nine

As you can see, Alshon Jeffery led the Gamecocks in every receiving category last year, which earned him a first-team All-SEC selection along side Julio Jones of Alabama.

Not to mention he was only a sophomore last year, so much will be expected from his junior season-like the Fred Biletnikoff award.

And, regardless of who is at the helm (Stephen Garcia or Connor Shaw), Jeffery has the ability to make either QB's job easier.

2. Ryan Broyles, Oklahoma

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GLENDALE, AZ - JANUARY 01: Ryan Broyles #85 of the Oklahoma Sooners looks on against the Connecticut Huskies during the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl at the Universtity of Phoenix Stadium on January 1, 2011 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty I

2010 STATS

RECEPTIONS: 131

YARDS: 1,622

AVERAGE: 12.4

TDS: 14

Combine him with QB Landry Jones after a BCS Bowl victory season, Ryan Broyles will once again be atop the list of college football's premiere WRs.

However, there is competition within his own conference from Justin Blackmon and Jeff Fuller.

And, an encore performance will be difficult.

But, all those are just motivational tools (that's possibly crossed his mind) to get Broyles to up his level of play in 2011. 

1. Justin Blackmon, Oklahoma State

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STILLWATER, OK - SEPTEMBER 05: Wide receiver Justin Blackmon #81 of the Oklahoma State Cowboys warms up before the college football game against the Georgia Bulldogs at Boone Pickens Stadium on September 5, 2009 in Stillwater, Oklahoma. The Cowboys defe

2010 STATS

RECEPTIONS: 111

YARDS: 1,782

AVERAGE: 16.1

TDS: 20

Last season's Fred Biletnikoff award winner and All-American, Justin Blackmon remains as college football's most prestigious wide-out.

Add in QB Brandon Weeden's return, and the Cowboys' offense is going to be beyond explosive (and that's an understatement).

It's rare to see someone of Blackmon's talent come back for a senior season, so even if you're not an Oklahoma State fan, you have to appreciate his decision.