College Football 2011: The Most Important Player on Every Team
With the 2011 season approaching ever so slowly, teams have wrapped up their 2011 spring games and are now focusing on getting through the summer without incident.
The spring game allowed fans and coaches to take a look at what their 2011 roster will look like. It helps you see who is starting to step up their game and who is going to help lead their team.
With graduated seniors and players who left early now off the roster, here is a look at the key player on each FBS team.
Air Force: Asher Clark
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Asher Clark is heading into his junior year at the Air Force and will be looking to take another step forward.
From 2009 to 2010, Clark was able to rush for almost 300 more yards and two touchdowns. Another step forward like that would be a welcome sight to Falcon fans.
Akron: Patrick Nicely
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It wasn't a good season in 2010 for the Zips, and it may not get much better in 2011 unless they get a big year out of Patrick Nicely.
In 2010, Nicely threw for under 2,000 yards and 13 interceptions and only 10 touchdowns.
To make things worse for Akron, they open the season against Ohio State
Alabama: Trent Richardson
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Despite playing with Mark Ingram, Trent Richardson was not lost in the backfield down in Alabama. Richardson is a big play threat when he touches the ball and was used more in the passing game last year then in 2009.
Now that Mark Ingram has moved to the NFL, look for Richardson to take another step in his development.
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Arizona: Juron Criner
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Juron Criner is back at Arizona, and after his last year landed him on the first team All-Pac-10, the bar has been set high for Criner.
With Nick Foles still under center, Criner will not only be the best receiver on his team; he will challenge all other Pac-10 receivers.
Airzona State: Vontaze Burfict
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Vontaze Burfict had an impressive second year at Arizona State and is ready to lead the defense in his third.
Burfict was named by some the defensive MVP of the Pac-10 last year and also landed on the Pac-10's second team.
Arkansas: Knile Davis
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With the departure of Ryan Mallett to the NFL, Arkansas will still be able to lean on Knile Davis to help lead them through 2011.
In 2010, Davis ran for 1,322 yards and found the endzone 13 times. Another year like that would be a welcome sign by Razorback fans.
Arkansas State: Ryan Aplin
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Accounting for 32 total touchdowns in his sophomore season, Ryan Aplin provided the Arkansas State with some balance.
The Red Wolves went 4-8 in 2010, and if Aplin can give them a similar effort this year and cut down on the turnovers, they could challenge for a bowl bid.
Army: Trent Steelman
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Despite not putting up great passing numbers, Trent Steelman was a threat to both run and pass the ball in 2010.
While Army did have one of the better rushing games in the nation, they also had the last place passing attack. If they hope to move forward in 2011, Steelman will have to make defenses respect the pass.
Auburn: Michael Dyer
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As a freshman, Michael Dyer had over 1,000 yards, but truly saved his best for last by putting on a terrific performance in the national championship.
With Cam Newton gone, Dyer and the running game will be leaned on heavily. It will be interesting to see how Dyer does when the defense no longer has to worry about Newton.
Ball State: Keith Wenning
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While last year was not a great season for Ball State, they can still look at the glass half full knowing their quarterback, Keith Wenning, was a freshman and should be better in 2011.
Despite throwing 14 touchdowns, Wenning offset that with 14 interceptions and will need to be sharper in 2011.
Baylor: Robert Griffin III
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Robert Griffin had a terrific comeback year in 2010 after losing the majority of his 2009 season to injury. He was named to the second team All-Big 12 squad and has Baylor fans hopefully for a successful 2011.
Between his athletic ability and experience, Griffin will be the key to Baylor's success.
Boise State: Kellen Moore
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Coming into the 2011 season, Boise State will be lead by quarterback Kellen Moore. Moore will have the Broncos aiming for a shot at the national title, and Moore himself will be a candidate for the Heisman Trophy.
Boston College: Montel Harris
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Montel Harris is back for another season and had a tremendous 2010 with Boston College.
Despite the drop in rushing yards and touchdowns from 2009 to 2010, Harris still posted over 1,200 yards rushing and was named to the first team All-ACC.
Harris will be looking for a repeat performance in 2011.
Bowling Green: Kamar Jorden
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In 2010, Kamar Jorden was leaned on heavily in the passing game, hauling in 96 passes for 1,109 yards and four scores.
While his receptions and yardage were good, Bowling Green will be hoping that Jorden can find the endzone more often in 2011.
Buffalo: Jerry Davis
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After an average sophomore season, Buffalo will lean on Jerry Davis in his junior year. Despite missing two games, Davis put up average statistics and was picked off 16 times through 10 games. That number must go down in 2011.
BYU: Matt Reynolds
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Since arriving at BYU, Matt Reynolds has been turning heads and pulling in the honors.
As a freshman, Reynolds was named a freshman All-American. He has followed that up with back to back years on the first team All-Mountain West Conference team.
At tackle, Reynolds will be the anchor for BYU in his senior season and will look to help them improve on their national rank of 42nd in terms of rushing.
Cal: Mychal Kendricks
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During the 2010 season, many defenses left the field with their heads down after playing the Oregon Ducks. Late in the year, Cal's defense stepped up and held the Oregon offense way below their season average.
Mychal Kendricks was a key piece in that defense and will look to step up again in 2011. Last year, Kendricks had one interceptions and also nine sacks. He ended the year by being named to the second team All-Pac-10 defense.
Central Michigan: Ryan Radcliff
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It was a down year for Central Michigan last year in the MAC, and they hope to turn things back around in 2011.
A big part to having a more successful 2011 will be returning starter Ryan Radcliff. While Radcliff did throw for over 3,300 yards, he threw the same amount of touchdown as interceptions, 17.
If Central Michigan hopes to move forward, they will need Radcliff to take care of the ball.
Cincinnati: Zach Collaros
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Back for his senior season is Cincinnati quarterback Zach Collaros. Collaros had a good first season as a starter, throwing for just under 3,000 yards and 26 touchdowns.
Coming into his senior season, Callaros will look to cut down on the interceptions and continue to improve on his accuracy as he leads Cincinnati through the Big East schedule.
Clemson: Andre Ellington
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Now entering his junior season, Andre Ellington is poised for a breakout year. In his first two seasons on campus, Ellington has shared time and been eased into the offense.
Injuries limited the impact that Ellington could have last year, but despite missing four games, he still was able to rush for over 600 yards and 10 touchdowns.
Colorado: Rodney Stewart
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While the Pac-12 is deep with running talent, Rodney Stewart will be sure to stand out.
Coming from Big 12, Rodney was able to put up over 1,300 yards and 10 scores. With a shift to the Pac-12, Rodney will be in a conference that is a bit more wide open and should give him an opportunity to shine.
Colorado State: Mychal Sisson
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Mychal Sisson is a leader on Colorado State's defense and will be back for his senior season. In his junior year, Sisson was selected to the second team All-Mountain West Conference.
In 2010, Sisson was second on the team in tackles and first in both sacks and tackles for a loss.
Connecticut: Sio Moore
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Quickly becoming a leader on the defense, Sio Moore was continued to develop every year at Connecticut.
Coming into 2011, the only thing that can stop Moore from being an outstanding force is the perception that he takes plays off. UConn coaches that with the idea that perception is not reality.
Duke: Conner Vernon
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In 2010, and now going into 2011, Conner Vernon will continue to be the go to receiver for Duke. Last year, Vernon caught 73 passes for 973 yards and four touchdowns.
Despite the overall lack of success by the Blue Devils, Vernon could be the one bright spot in 2011.
Eastern Michigan: Alex Gillett
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Despite only winning two games in 2010, Alex Gillett was a bright spot on the Eagles offense.
Whether throwing or passing Gillett saw success in 2010, Gillett ended the year throwing for 13 touchdowns and rushing for five more.
Coming into is junior season should all Gillett to develop even more and give him a chance to cut down on the number of turnovers that plagued him last year.
ECU: Dominique Davis
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Dominique Davis had a great 2010 and returns for his senior season. In 2010, Davis threw for 3,967 yards and 37 touchdowns, throwing for five touchdowns in three games last year.
With another year under his belt, Davis should eclipse the 4,000 yard mark and throw 40 touchdowns, stats that would be a welcome sight for ECU fans.
FIU: Darriet Perry
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One way to take the pressure off your team is to have the ability to pound the ball on the ground and wear out the other team. After not seeing many touches early in 2010, Darriet Perry started to see the ball more often and made the most of his carries.
With Wesley Carroll at quarterback and Perry in the backfield, FIU has some senior leadership lining up in their backfield.
Florida: John Brantley
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When the 2011 season is over, Florida fans will be hoping that John Brantley was the best player they had that year. After being spoiled with three straight years of Tim Tebow, Brantley has struggled as a starter and will have one last shot in his senior year.
Last year, Brantley threw for nine touchdowns but also 10 interceptions and just broke 2,000 yards passing. He will have to be better for Florida to succeed in the SEC.
Florida Atlantic: Jeff Van Camp
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After a 4-8 season in 2010, Jeff Van Camp and Florida Atlantic look to make an important step towards becoming bowl eligible in 2011.
While Van Camp did throw for 2,459 yards and 17 touchdowns, he was picked off 13 times.
If Florida Atlantic hopes to have a chance at a bowl game, Van Camp must be the senior leader on this team and protect the ball.
Florida State: Willie Haulstead
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The ACC is the conference that is most wide open and ready for a star to emerge at the wide receiver position.
With the high expectations at Florida State, a player ready to step into that role and have a standout season is Willie Haulstead.
In 2010, Haulstead was able to catch six touchdowns while only starting five games. He was also able to catch 38 balls for 587 yards.
Haulstead is a tall receiver that has all the physical tools to have a great junior year. If new quarterback E.J. Manual and Haulstead are able to get on the same page, it could be a dangerous combination.
Fresno State: Robbie Rouse
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Coming into 2011, Robbie Rouse will need to step to the forefront of the offense now that Fresno's starting quarterback has graduated.
Rouse rushed for over 1,100 yards and eight touchdowns in 2010, and for Fresno State to be successful in the WAC IN 2011, they will need even more from him.
Georgia: Aaron Murray
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With the departure of dynamic receive A.J. Green, Aaron Murray's role will become even more important in 2011.
Murray had a solid 2010, throwing for over 3,000 yards and 24 touchdowns, but Georgia will need him to continue to take steps forward for them to have a successful 2011.
Georgia Tech: Tevin Washington
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The No.1 rushing team in the nation will say goodbye to Joshua Nesbitt as their starting quarterback and leader of their offense and will turn to junior Tevin Washington.
Washington did see some action in 2010, especially as the season came to an end.
While it will be interesting to see how Washington does with the offense, it is unlikely Georgia Tech will lead the nation in rushing in 2011.
Hawaii: Bryant Moniz
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The Hawaii offense has seen many quarterbacks come and go and put up huge numbers. Bryant Moniz is no exception coming off a tremendous 2010.
In 2010, Moniz threw for 39 touchdowns and also eclipsed the 5,000 yards mark for passing yards. Look for his stats to be even more impressive in 2011.
Houston: Case Keenum
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Case Keenum was ready for a great 2010 season, only to have it cut short in the third game of the year with a torn ACL. Luckily for Keenum, the NCAA granted him a sixth year for 2011, and he will be back to lead the Cougar offense.
Keenum has a tremendous arm, and in 2008 and 2009, he threw for 44 touchdowns in each season. If he can stay healthy, Keenum could throw nearly 50 touchdowns.
Idaho: Bobby Cowan
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In 2010, Idaho found themselves a one dimensional team that liked to air out the ball. For the most part, they were around average for points for and points against, so field position was critical for the Vandals.
Bobby Cowan was named to the first team All-WAC squad as a sophomore and will be back to handle the punting duties at Idaho.
If Cowan can follow up with a repeat performance in 2011, he will give the field advantage to Idaho in most games.
Illinois: Nathan Scheelhaase
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Nathan Scheelhaase stepped in as a freshman last year and was steady through most of the year. Scheelhaase threw for 1,825 yards and 17 touchdowns in 2010.
In 2011, Illinois will be looking for development out of Scheelhaase entering his second year and hoping that translates to more wins.
Indiana: Edward Wright-Baker
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With the end of the 2010 season came the end of Ben Chappell's senior season. Chappell had put up impressive numbers while at Indiana, but now the offense is being turned over to Edward Wright-Baker.
Wright-Baker only attempted 12 passes in 2010 but did manage to throw a touchdown.
With the starting of Wright-Baker comes the start of a new chapter for Indiana.
Iowa: Marvin McNutt
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Marvin McNutt is an elite receiver in the Big 10 and would be just what the Hawkeyes young quarterback could need to keep this offense rolling. While McNutt has the skills necessary to be a top receiver, it will all come down to getting the ball in his hands.
Iowa State: Jake Knott
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Jake Knott is a tenacious defender and a leader on Iowa State's football team.
In 2010, Knott was named to the second team All-Big 12 and was also named the Cyclones defensive MVP. Knott has also been a co-captain for two years running and should make it three in 2011.
Kansas: James Sims
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It was a rough 2010 for Kansas going 3-9 and not making it to a bowl game. A bright spot throughout the season was the play of freshman running back James Sims.
Sims stepped up and rushed for 742 yards and nine touchdowns in his first year. With a year under his belt, Sims has himself set up for a good sophomore season.
Kansas State: Ty Zimmerman
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In just his first year at Kansas State, Ty Zimmerman was a standout player on the Wildcat defense and caught the eye of teams across the Big 12, as he was named to the second team All-Big 12 squad.
Zimmerman provided Kansas State with solid play in the secondary and three interceptions.
Kent State: Jacquise Terry
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One of the worst rushing teams in the 2010 season will need senior running back Jacquise Terry to step his game up in 2011 and become a leader.
As Kent State went down the stretch, Terry saw limited carries and will need to demand the ball by providing production.
Kentucky: Morgan Newton
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When the 2011 season begins, the offense cupboard is going to be empty for Kentucky. During the offseason, Kentucky has lost Derrick Locke, Mike Hartline and Randall Cobb, along with other talented players.
Coming into 2011, Morgan Newton will take over and hopes to swim rather then sink in the SEC.
Louisiana Tech: Lennon Creer
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Out in the WAC conference, Louisiana Tech will have to lean on senior running back Lennon Creer to help get them over the hump and into a bowl game.
In 2010, Creer rushed for 1,181 yards and 10 touchdowns, and it only got them to five wins. For the coming season, Tech and Creer hopes to return to a bowl game.
Louisiana-Lafayette: Chris Masson
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In order to be more successful in the Sun Belt, Louisiana-Lafayette will need Chris Masson to be better then he was in 2010.
Masson will be entering his senior season and needs to not only make the next step in his development but also stay healthy.
Only 11 touchdowns will not lead to success in 2011.
Louisiana-Monroe: Kolton Browning
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In the Sun Belt Conference, Louisiana-Monroe, led by freshman quarterback Kolton Browning, went 5-7 and has a good chance of making a bowl game in 2011.
During his first season as starter, Browning threw for over 2,500 yards and had 18 touchdowns passing and four rushing.
Louisville: Jeremy Wright
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With the 2010 season behind them, the Louisville Cardinals will have to replace the production of senior running back Bilal Powell.
While seeing some limited action, Jeremy Wright was able to accumulate over 300 yards rushing and four scores.
For the coming season, Wright will have to replace the yardage and scores that Powell provided the team last year.
LSU: Jordan Jefferson
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Coming into the 2011 season, LSU and its fans have high hopes of not only winning the SEC but heading to the national championship.
LSU knows that the defense is ready, the running game is solid and the only question mark remaining is quarterback Jordan Jefferson.
If Jefferson can manage the game, LSU has the talent around him to take this program far.
Marshall: Vinny Curry
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2010 was a good season for Vinny Curry, as he was named to the first team defense All-Conference USA.
While Marshall had a down year in Conference USA, they will need Curry to lead not only the defensive line but the defense throughout 2011.
Maryland: Kenny Tate
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Since arriving at Maryland, Kenny Tate has been a jack of all trades. He was recruited as a wide receiver but has played at defensive end, defensive tackle, inside linebacker, outside linebacker and defensive back.
Tate has found his place in Maryland secondary and has himself lined up for a standout season in 2011.
Memphis: Ryan Williams
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Things could not get much worse for Memphis, as they went 1-11 in 2010. The upside is that Ryan Williams was a freshman and has had a year to grow and learn the offense.
In his first year in school and as Memphis starter, Williams threw for 2,075 yards and 13 touchdowns.
Miami: Jacory Harris
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After a disappointing 2010 season, Jacory Harris returns for his senior season and will try to lead the 'Canes to a conference title. If Harris can settle down in the pocket and move through his different reads, he has the ability and skills to get Miami off to a great start.
Miami University: Zac Dysert
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While he did not play in the final four games of the 2010 season, Zac Dysert lead Miami of Ohio to a 6-4 record.
Through 10 games, Dysert threw for 2,406 and 13 touchdowns but will have to cut down on his turnovers, as he threw for 12 in 2010.
Michigan: Denard Robinson
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The only bright spot that came out of the Rich Rod era at Michigan was Denard Robinson.
Robinson is an explosive playmaker that has the ability to turn a broken play into a touchdown. Despite having average accuracy, Robinson is a constant threat that defenses must continually keep their eyes on.
Michigan State: Kirk Cousins
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In 2010, Kirk Cousins led the Michigan State Spartans to a share of the Big 10 title and has hopes of doing it again.
If Michigan State hopes to challenge for the conference crown again, they will not only need Cousins to bring the effort and leadership he brought in 2010; he will need to find that next level of production.
Middle Tennessee: Logan Kilgore
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Throughout 2010, Logan Kilgore battled injuries while playing quarterback for Middle Tennesse.
In the three games that Kilgore started in, he played fairly well and will be a player the Middle Tennessee turns to for improved production in 2011.
Minnesota: Da'Jon McKnight
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Despite sitting towards the bottom of the Big 10, Minnesota hopes with a new year comes big things.
The Golden Gophers will look to senior wide receiver Da'Jon McKnight to help lead them in 2011 and improve on his 750 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns.
Mississippi State: Vick Ballard
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Vick Ballard played a huge role in the success last year of Mississippi State and was a touchdown machine.
In his first year as a starter, Ballard was just shy of 1,000 yards rushing but found the endzone 19 times are only failed to score in two games.
Missouri
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T.J. Moe is an impact player for the Tigers who has the ability to make plays whenever he touches the ball. Moe was one of the main beneficiaries of having Blaine Gabbert at quarterback.
Moe caught 92 passes for over 1,000 yards last year and was named second team All-Big 12.
Navy: Alexander Teich
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The only place you will find a fullback on this list is right here. Coming into 2011, Navy will have to replace senior quarterback Ricky Dobbs.
With an offense that relies to heavily on the run game, look for them to load Alexander Teich up with carries throughout 2011.
NC State: Mike Glennon
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Bet you did not see this coming. After a standout season in 2010, Russell Wilson's future is still extremely cloudy.
In the meantime, backup Mike Glennon may end up being the starting quarterback come the fall and will be the linchpin to a successful season.
Nebraska: Jared Crick
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Jared Crick had a terrific year in 2010. He was named to Rivals All-American team and then was named to AP, SI and CBSSports second team. On top of that, Crick was an unanimous choice for the first team All-Big 12.
Over the past two seasons, Crick was totaled up 18.5 sacks and is eying up a monster senior season as Nebraska moves to the Big 10.
Nevada: Rishard Matthews
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After the 2010 season was over, Nevada was hit hard by graduation and will now have to lean on some of their younger players as well as some remaining upperclassmen.
Rishard Matthews returns in 2011 and is coming off a season with 879 receiving yards and five touchdowns.
Nevada will need much more from Matthews as they start to break in a new quarterback.
New Mexico: Lucas Reed
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One of the bright spots in a long year for New Mexico was Lucas Reed. Reed was named to the first team All-Mountain West Conference, was an honorable mention for All-American and was to the second team All-Sophomore.
Reed had 33 receptions and five touchdowns in 2010.
New Mexico State
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When healthy and out on the field, quarterback Matt Christian had a decent year. Through nine games, Christian threw eight touchdowns and passed for 1,372 yards. The impressive part was only turning it over two times.
North Carolina: Quinton Coples
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Coming into his senior season, Quinton Coples is an extremely athletic defender and has a nose for the ball.
In 2010, Coples had 59 tackles and 10 sacks, doubling his previous years totals.
North Texas: Lance Dunbar
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After going 3-9 in 2010, North Texas needs Lance Dunbar to be just as good in 2011 if they have any hope of improving.
In 2010, Dunbar rushed for 1553 yards and 13 touchdowns. Imagine what he could do behind a strong offensive line.
Northern Illinois: Chandler Harnish
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Chandler Harnish is a case of a player who has shown improvement year after year. From 2008, Harnish has improved on yards, touchdowns and also cut down on the interceptions every year.
After a 11-3 season in 2010, Harnish hopes that trend continues through 2011.
Northwestern: Brian Peters
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In 2010, Brian Peters was named to the second team All-Big 10 and was a force in Northwestern's secondary. He was able to total 107 tackles, three interceptions and a touchdown.
In 2011, Peters will be returning for his senior season and will need to be a leader on the Wildcats defense.
Notre Dame: Michael Floyd
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Michael Flyod may be one of the best receivers in the nation and has the ability to consistently make plays.
With the raised expectations at Notre Dame this year, if Flyod is able to continue to improve, he may find himself as a dark horse for the Heisman Trophy.
Ohio: Phil Bates
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Going into the 2011 season, Ohio will be losing their top quarterback, running back and wide receiver. With the loses to the offense, the pressure will fall on new starter Phil Bates.
Bates saw limited action in 2010 and could struggle early.
Ohio State: Terrell Pryor
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Here is the good news and bad news for Buckeye fans. The good news is, your star quarterback has returned to play his senior season. The bad news is, your star quarterback will be missing almost half the season due to suspension from NCAA violations.
While Pryor is a terrific talent and has led Ohio State to some big victories, his team will have to adjust to playing with out him early on in the year.
Oklahoma: Landry Jones
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Coming into 2011, Landry Jones will be leading the preseason No.1 and having to handle the expectations that come with it.
Jones will have a wealthy of talent around him, and if Jones is able to play as well as he did last year, the Sooners will be hard to stop in 2011.
Oklahoma State: Justin Blackmon
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Last year's Biletnikoff Award winner is back at Oklahoma State and ready to terrorize the Big 12.
Justin Blackmon was able to post an astonishing 20 touchdowns last year and never went a game without getting into the endzone.
Ole Miss: Brandon Bolden
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After a season that showed him come up just shy of 1,000 yards but also scoring 14 touchdowns, Brandon Bolden is back for his senior year.
During the offseason this year, Bolden received an award at Ole Miss for being the most outstanding offensive player during spring drills.
Ole Miss had a down year at 4-8 in 2010 and hope to ride Bolden to an improved record in 2011.
Oregon: LaMichael James
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One of the early front runners for the Heisman Trophy is back for his junior season at Oregon. LaMichael James has started for the past two years and has set the mark for most rushing yards in Pac-10 history by a freshman and sophomore.
If James is able to help the Ducks earn a victory in Dallas over LSU, he will put himself on top of early Heisman ballots across the nation.
Oregon State: James Rodgers
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James Rodgers was ready for a huge senior season and was putting up good numbers through four games of the 2010 season.
After missing a game against Arizona State, Rodgers returned against Arizona only to injure himself for the season on a freak injury in the endzone.
If Rodgers is able to come back anything close to form before his injury, he will be the Beavers' biggest weapon in 2011.
Penn State: Derek Moye
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Another player who named as a honorable mention for the All-Big 10 team was Penn State receiver Derek Moye.
Moye has shown steady improvement since his freshman year and had his best season to date as a junior.
Moye caught 53 passes and scored eight touchdown for Penn State and will be looking to cap off his career at PSU with an even better senior season.
Pittsburgh: Tino Sunseri
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After finishing his first year as starter, Tino Sunseri will have to be better in his junior season. With only 16 touchdowns, Sunseri must protect the ball better. He had nine interceptions in 2010 and must improve on this ratio for the Panthers to be successful.
Purdue: Ricardo Allen
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Despite it being a down year for Purdue, they do have to look forward to the continued development of cornerback Ricardo Allen.
Last year, Allen received honorable mention for the All-Big 10 team and also had back to back weeks with a pick six.
Rice: Jeremy Eddington
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Very quietly, Rice freshman Jeremy Eddington had a good opening season and looks to continue that momentum into 2011.
While only getting 59 carries in 2010, Eddington got into the endzone 10 times, averaging a touchdown every six times he touched the ball.
Rutgers: Mark Harrison
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Despite a down year for Rutgers, Mark Harrison was a ray of sunshine during this down season. Going into 2011, Harrison could be playing with a chip on his shoulder and playing with something to prove.
While being in the top five in most major receiving statistics, Harrison was left off of both the first and second team Big East squads.
In 2010, Harrison caught 44 passes and nine touchdowns and will use the motivation of being snubbed in conference to lead him to an even better 2011.
San Diego State: Ronnie Hillman
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No matter if Ronnie Hillman was a freshman, sophomore, junior or senior, most backs would kill to have his numbers. To make things even more impressive, Hillman was in his first year.
In the 2010 season, Hillman ran for over 1,500 yards and scored 18 total touchdowns.
It will be interesting to see how Hillman does now that head coach Brady Hoke has left.
San Jose State: Brandon Rutley
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When looking at a team that went 1-12 in 2010, it is hard to find the bright spot, but coming into 2011, Brandon Rutley has some upside that could make this coming season a step in the right direction.
Rutley had five touchdowns last year and was able to get over 600 yards rushing and receiving.
SMU: Kyle Padron
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With Kyle Padron under center, SMU was able to go 7-6 during the regular season and earn a birth in the Armed Forces Bowl.
During the 2010, Padron made major strides towards improving. He threw for 3,828 yards and got the Mustangs into the endzone 31 times.
South Carolina: Alshon Jeffery
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Alshon Jeffery collected quite the list of accomplishments last year that included being named a first team All-American, first team All-SEC and was also a finalist for the Biletnikoff Award.
With defenses now having to pay more and more attention to South Carolina running back Marcus Lattimore, Jeffery is going to be in for another outstanding season.
South Florida: Lindsey Lamar
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Last year's Big East Special Teams Player of the Year is returning for his junior season in 2011. Lindsey Lamar was an electric playmaker that averaged over 26 yards per return and took two the distance.
On top of being a threat on special teams, Lindsey is continuing to develop as a wide receiver.
Southern Mississippi: Austin Davis
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With one year remaining at Southern Mississippi, Austin Davis took tremendous steps as a starter.
Davis threw for over 3,000 yards and 20 touchdowns. During his junior year, he was also able to limit his turnovers to only six interceptions.
Stanford: Andrew Luck
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Right now, many see the Hesiman Trophy race as a two man race. On one side is LaMichael James, but on the other is Stanford quarterback Andrew Luck.
Luck is good enough that many believed he would leave early for the NFL and would be the first overall pick. Instead, Luck has returned and will have Stanford in contention for a Pac-12 crown or even a national championship.
Syracuse: Ryan Nassib
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In a bounce back year for Syracuse, quarterback Ryan Nassib led them back to a bowl game and helped them lock up a victory over Kansas State in the Pinstripe Bowl.
Nassib threw for 2,334 yards and 19 touchdowns in 2010, which was also his first full season as starter.
TCU: Tank Carder
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Regardless of how good Tank Carder is, he will go down in TCU history after his deflection on a two point conversion helped win the Rose Bowl for TCU.
Carder is entering his senior season, and at middle linebacker, he will have to lead this team as they adjust to life after Andy Dalton.
Temple: Mike Gerardi
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Starting in the last six games of the 2010 season, Mike Gerardi went 4-2 as a starter, posting 10 touchdowns and 1,290 yards passing.
When given a full year in 2011, if Gerardi can cut down on the interceptions, he will have a good senior season at Temple
Tennessee: Tauren Poole
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Last year was a good season for Tauren Poole, as he rushed for over 1,000 yards and 11 touchdowns. While the Vols were going through some growing pains with a young team, 2011 will be even better for Poole as he looks to lead Tennessee through SEC play.
Texas: Emmanuel Acho
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With the offense still looking for their way down in Austin, Texas will need players like Emmanuel Acho to really step forward and lead this team.
Last year, Acho was named to the second team All-Big 12 squad and is the leader of the Longhorn defense.
Texas A&M: Ryan Tannehill
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Ryan Tannehill is a unique player on this list in the sense that he actually played wide receiver and then finished the year at quarterback.
For the first six games on 2010, Tannehill put up decent numbers at receiver but then made his first start against Texas Tech.
Tannehill finished the year at 5-1 as a starter and will be interesting to watch in 2011.
Texas Tech: Eric Stephens
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With the loss of senior quarterback Taylor Potts, the Texas Tech offense wont stop attempting to air out the ball but may need to look for some balance in 2011.
Eric Stephens averaged over five yards per carry last year. He finished the year with 668 yards rushing and six touchdowns.
Toledo: Eric Page
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A player that really came into his own in the Toledo offense last year was wide receiver Eric Page.
Page had a great sophomore campaign, catching 99 passes for 1,100 yards and eight touchdowns. He also found his stride towards the end of the regular season, catching touchdowns in five straight games.
Troy: Corey Robinson
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Troy was hoping that in 2010, Corey Robinson could step in this offense despite being in his freshman season. Their choice was confirmed after Robinson threw for 3,700 yards and 28 touchdowns.
While Robinson did throw 15 interceptions, he will have time in the offseason to get comfortable with his receivers, and the offense will be priceless.
Tulane: Orleans Darkwa
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Orleans Darkwa is another outstanding running back coming off of a great freshman season. While Tulane finished the season 4-8, Darkwa rushed for 925 yards and also got into the endzone 11 times.
Darkwa also was able to crack the 100 yard rushing mark five out of the last six games on the season.
Tulsa: G.J. Kinne
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After realizing he may not see the field at Texas, G.J. Kinne transferred to Tulsa and has not looked back since.
From 2009 to 2010, Kinne improved on his passing yardage and touchdowns while not going up in interceptions.
UAB: Bryan Ellis
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Despite a sub .500 season, Bryan Ellis played well, having a 2:1 touchdown to interception ratio.
Ellis was able to lead the offense to good point totals but did not receive a lot of support from the defense.
UCF: Jeffrey Godfrey
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Coming into 2010, UCF was going to be starting freshman quarterback Jeffery Godfrey, and not many saw what came next.
Once the season had completed, Godfrey lead UCF to a 11-3 record, including a Liberty Bowl victory over Georgia.
In his first season as a starter, Godfrey tossed 13 touchdowns and threw for 2,159 yards.
UCLA: Jonathan Franklin
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Very quietly, Jonathan Franklin posted 1,127 rushing yards and eight touchdowns in his sophomore season and will only get better as a junior.
To go along with a good sophomore season, Bruin fans should take notice that for the most part, Franklin had his best games in the bigger games that UCLA played in 2010.
UNLV: Marcus Sullivan
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Arguably the best return man in the Mountain West Conference, Marcus Sullivan had a great freshman season.
While Sullivan's stats were limited in 2010, he is the most explosive player on UNLV and a true playmaker.
USC: Matt Barkley
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Going into his third season as starter, USC fans have to be encouraged from the growth and rise in play they saw from Matt Barkley last year.
Barkely was able to go from 15 to 26 touchdowns and saw his interceptions drop from 14 to 12.
If Barkley can continue to develop, he can help lead USC back to challenging for the conference title.
Utah: DeVonte Christopher
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In his second year at Utah, DeVonte Christopher took major strides towards being the passing games go to receiver. Christopher had 660 receiving yards and six touchdowns in 2010, making huge strides from his first year.
Christopher will have to continue to develop and grow as Utah makes the move to the Pac-12 for 2011.
Utah State: Dontel Warkins
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Out in the WAC, Dontel Warkins began to develop into a good receiver during his sophomore season at Utah State.
Warkins has good speed and is coming into his own in the Aggie offense, but they will need him to step up even more in 2011.
UTEP: Joseph Banyard
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The key for Joseph Banyard in 2011 will be getting him the ball. In 2010, Banyard ran for 623 yards and eight touchdowns.
During a five game stretch in 2010, Banyard averaged only three carries per game. If he is able to get more touches in 2011, Banyard should get over the 1,000 yard mark.
Vanderbilt: Casey Hayward
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Named second team All-SEC DB by both the league coaches and Associated Press writers, Casey Hayward started every game in 2010. By most standards, Hayward is one of the most talented corners in the nation.
In 2010, Hayward forced a fumble but picked off six passes.
Virginia: Chase Minnifield
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SI.com Honorable Mention All-American Chase Minnifield had a great 2010. He picked off six passes, taking his career total to 10 interceptions.
Minnifield started every game in 2010 and finished second in the ACC and seventh nationally in interceptions.
Virginia Tech: Jayron Hosley
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As a sophomore in 2010, Hosley recorded 39 tackles, seven pass breakups and nation leading nine interceptions.
His performance as a sophomore earned him first team All-American honors and may be one of the frontrunners for the defensive player of the year.
Wake Forest: Josh Harris
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During a 3-9 season, Josh Harris is a building block towards the future for Wake Forest.
As a freshman, Harris rushed for 720 yards and seven touchdowns.
His major stand out performance came on the road against Virginia Tech, when Harris rushed for 241 yards and two touchdowns.
Washington: Chris Polk
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Another team that saw a first round quarterback leave was Washington. Jake Locker is now gone, which means the offense will turn to Chris Polk.
Polk was just shy of 1,500 yards last year, and if he is able to get help from the offensive line, he could challenge LaMichael James for the Pac-10 rushing leader.
Washington State: Jeff Tuel
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As the 2010 season went on, objective fans would have to admit that it appeared that Washington State was starting to turn things around. A large part of the improvement was the play of quarterback Jeff Tuel.
If Tuel is able to continue to grow and understand the offense even better, he will help lead the Cougars to another step forward.
West Virginia: Geno Smith
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Geno Smith will be entering his junior season at West Virginia in 2011 and will be coming off of a impressive season in 2010. Smith threw for 24 touchdowns and over 2,500 yards passing.
Smith has a good arm and is mobile enough when he needs to be. If Smith can give them a repeat performance in 2011, it will be a good start for West Virginia.
Western Kentucky: Bobby Rainey
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In 2010, Bobby Rainey earned honorable-mention All-America honors from SI.com after finishing the year third in the nation in rushing, averaging 137.4 yards per game.
Returning for 2011, Rainey will look to try and lead Western Kentucky to a better season while at the same time making his case for the NFL.
Western Michigan: Alex Carder
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In his first year as a starter, Alex Carder had an impressive year in the MAC, throwing for 30 touchdowns and over 3,300 yards.
The most encouraging news for Bronco fans is the fact that as the year went on, Carder become more consistent with his play and led the team to three straight victories to end the year.
Wisconsin: James White
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The consensus Big Ten Freshman of the Year and second team All-Big Ten, James White has a bright future in front of him at a school known for a great running game.
As a freshman, White had over 1,000 yards and scored 14 touchdowns. White has tremendous talent and is poised for a amazing sophomore season.
Wyoming: Josh Biezuns
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A major leader and contributor to the Wyoming defense is Josh Biezuns. Biezuns recorded 61 tackles and 6.5 sacks in 2010and dramatically improved from his 2009 play.
While Wyoming football does not often see a lot of household names, Biezuns hopes to turn heads in 2011.
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