College Football 2011: Power Ranking the Top 100 Players for Next Season
College football will feature a plethora of extremely talented and productive players this 2011 season.
While everyone's natural attention will be mainly focused on the Heisman for individual accolades, there are still many other great talents around the country.
So with this, we're going to rank the top and very best 100 players in college football for the 2011 season.
Let's get to ranking!
100. Harrison Smith, DS: Notre Dame
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Smith is a big safety at 6'2", 215 pounds and displayed smarts and leadership last year as the captain of the Irish defense. This year, he figures to make a move on the Thorpe Award.
He had 91 tackles and seven picks last season, was a passionate player and vocal leader. His communication skills are valued on the back end as it's imperative he help align the secondary correctly on each down.
Big things are expected out of Smith in South Bend in 2011.
99. Jake Heaps, QB: BYU
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Heaps was a highly sought-after recruit in the 2010 cycle and signed with the Cougars, providing a hope to return to the Steve Young, Ty Detmer and Jim McMahon glory days.
He provided some sparks as true freshman, but also went through some growing pains. He looks to be more comfortable and vocal this year, which is why Bronco Mendenhall has been giddy all spring.
If he can continue the caliber of play he showed in the New Mexico Bowl, BYU can make a run this year, independently.
98. Nick Perry, DE: USC
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Perry battled injuries all season long and never really was at 100 percent in 2010, even though he started nine games at DE. At 6'3", 250 pounds, he was a Freshman All-American in 2009, registering eight sacks.
Word out of Troy is he has been virtually unblockable this spring, as he is back to 100 percent and healed up. He was a star for the Trojan DL during the spring game.
He has stated his goal this season is to get more than 15 sacks.
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97. BJ Daniels, QB: South Florida
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Daniels got off to a slow start last year, and at times when I watched the Bulls play, I questioned his game management skills. But he seems to have a staunch group of supporters who seem convinced he's the most talented QB in the Big East.
He played well in the Bulls' bowl game vs. Clemson and was named the game's MVP.
This year, in Skip Holtz's second year at the helm, I expect a better and more consistent season from Daniels.
96. Ed Wesley, RB: TCU
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Even though Wesley is just one head of a daunting trio the Horned Frogs figure to rely heavily on this year, he still managed to have a 1,000-yard 2010 season.
At 5'9", 200 pounds, he will given the load as the Gary Patterson breaks in Casey Pachall.
Wesley is a stout RB that runs with a good deal of power and force, can break some tackles and does a solid job of picking holes.
95. Coryell Judie, CB: Texas A&M
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Judie had a shoulder injury hinder his 2009 campaign, but he came back in 2010 and showed the Big 12 what his hype was about.
The 5'11", 190-pounder routinely took on each team's top WR week in and week out and more than held his own.
Some say he is on the same level as Alfonzo Dennard of Nebraska, as Judie had four interceptions in 2011.
94. Rodney Stewart, RB: Colorado
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I remember a few years back when the Buffs signed a 5-star RB by the name of Darrell Scott, Boulder was in a buzz. I watched Scott play in high school and came away pretty impressed.
He flamed out and Stewart blazed in. Vastly undersized at under 5'8", Stewart is approaching 3,000 rushing yards in his career at Colorado and has 21 touchdowns.
He's candidate for Big 12 Offensive POY.
93. C.J. Mosley, LB: Alabama
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Courtney Upshaw and Dont'a Hightower get much of the spotlight for the Tide LB corps, but Mosley is a staunch player in his own right.
Only going into his true sophomore season, the 6'2", 225-pound Mosley finished third on the team with 67 tackles as a freshman.
He looks like a future Butkus Award contender, and it may even be this season.
92. Mohamed Sanu, WR: Rutgers
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Perhaps the best WR for the Scarlet Knights since Kenny Britt, Sanu had over 1,000 total yards as a true freshman. He possesses good size at standing over 6'2", and flashes playmaking ability to be used as a runner as well as a receiver.
His second campaign was not up to the standards of his first, but with Chas Dodd now entrenched as a the starting QB, Sanu should be on the same page with his QB this year.
Look for 1,000 yards receiving this year from Sanu in Piscataway.
91. Morgon Moses, OT: Virginia
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D'Brickashaw Ferguson. Branden Albert. Eugene Monroe. Morgan Moses is the next in line of great Cavalier offensive linemen.
He started seven contests as a freshman, and the 6'6", 336-pounder made the freshman All-American team by displaying nimble feet, balance, patience in his sets and mirror ability along with strength as a drive blocker.
90. Nick Toon, WR: Wisconsin
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The Badgers aren't necessarily known for their passing attack, but Toon is a solid receiver, having 107 receptions in his tenure at Camp Randall.
He'll be going into his senior season with revenge on his mind to get back to the Rose Bowl, and to go along with the daunting rushing attack the Badgers will have in 2011, should provide a No. 1 target in the passing game.
89. Billy Winn, DT: Boise State
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A defense that held offenses to just 2.0 yards per rush should have a slew of stars. One of the stars for the Bronco defense is DT Billy Winn, a 6'4", 290-pound Las Vegas native.
He shows off very good athleticism in the interior and has a NFL future a head of him. He's quick off the ball, can slip blocks and shed, and make stops in the middle.
Winn also shows some pass rushing ability by pushing the pocket in the middle and could also play in a 30 front.
88. Tavon Austin, WR: West Virginia
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Austin will be playing in a proven offensive system this year under new OC Dana Holgorsen. Expect Holgorsen to get the most out of Austin by exploiting him in matchups as both a runner and receiver.
He can play WR and RB both equally and effectively, as Austin is one of the most versatile offensive weapons in the country.
He put up over 1,100 yards of total offense last year and with Holgorsen now in charge of the WVU offense, his output should only increase in 2011.
87. Jelani Jenkins, LB: Florida
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At 6'1", 220 pounds, Jenkins is the most important Gator defender this year. I expect him to take his game to another level for two reasons in 2011: Dan Quinn is the new DC, and this could be Jenkins' final season in Gainesville as the NFL loves him.
He was a Frosh All-American last year with 76 stops and teams with Jon Bostic, who I feel is less athletic than Jenkins, to form a solid LB duo that Will Muschamp can go win with.
86. Marquis Maze, WR: Alabama
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Marquis Maze has been looked at as the other guy in Tuscaloosa for the past few years, but that's because Julio Jones was as close to being Superman as a WR can be.
But now, it's time for Maze to have his moment and become the leader of the Alabama WR unit. He caught 38 balls last year and is one of the fastest players in the SEC.
Look for him to become AJ McCarron or Phillip Sims' No.1 target in the passing game.
85. Brandon Boykin, CB: Georgia
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When you have 5'10", 180-pound corners, they are deemed a dime a dozen. Maybe that's why Boykin came back to Athens over bolting for the pros. Anyway you view it, just know that Mark Richt is happy to have him back.
Boykin had an average junior season and has been honing his craft this offseason to improve his game. His final and senior season as a Dawg should be his best.
84. Marquess Wilson, WR: Washington State
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At 6'3", Wilson has the length and catch radius to snatch and pluck balls all around his frame. He's not the most explosive or sudden athlete but has just enough speed to be effective.
He had over 1,000 yards receiving last season on 55 receptions and will be Jeff Tuel's main target in the Cougar passing attack. Wilson, a Freshman All-American, will look to help get the Cougars out of the Pac-12 dweller.
83. Josh Robinson, CB: Central Florida
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Robinson is a 5'10", 195-pound CB with All-American cover skills and athleticism. He likely will be, at worst, a professional nickel back in the NFL, and likely a prominent starter.
He had nearly 60 tackles and 13 PBU's last season, making the All-CUSA team. He caught the eye of many observers by holding his own against AJ Green in UCF's win in the Liberty Bowl.
82. Jake Bequette, DE: Arkansas
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Bequette returns to the Hogs as part of a talented front seven unit, which one of the reasons Arkansas is expected to contend for the SEC title in 2011.
At 6'5", 270 pounds, Bequette is a high-effort, high-motor DE who finished last season with 8.5 TFL's and seven sacks. He enters this year as one of the best DL's in the SEC.
81. Juron Criner, WR: Arizona
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Criner is an excellent WR who stands 6'4" and is Nick Foles' top target. He caught 82 balls for more than 1,200 yards and 11 touchdowns.
He had a breakout year that had Wildcat fans scared because of the fear he would turn pro. Yet, Criner is back for one last go in Tuscon and is a prime reason Arizona is thinking Pac-12 title this year.
80. Doug Martin, RB: Boise State
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With Kellen Moore likely spending the early portion of the season looking for receivers to emerge, look for Martin to be relied on more in 2011. And that's saying something sense he amassed over 1,500 yards of offense last year.
He's a stout, bowling ball-type of runner that has some dart to his speed and runs well behind his pads. He's very strong and powerful and will be an offensive pillar for the Broncos.
79. Devin Taylor, DE: South Carolina
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It seems the hoopla is more on Jadeveon Clowney and Cliff Matthews among top Gamecock DL's, but the numbers say it's Taylor who should be the focal point.
At 6'7" and in the 250-255-pound range, Taylor has great length, size and production on the defensive edge as he had 13 TFL's and 7.5 sacks last year.
Having the 6'6" Clowney and 6'7" Taylor flanking each other should give some OT's problems in 2011.
78. Matt Kalil, OT: USC
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On draft day, Jon Gruden stated he was concerned as to why Tyron Smith played RT for USC and not LT. Well, little did Gruden know the reason was because of Matt Kalil.
At 6'7" and 300 pounds, Kalil is one of the top LT prospects in the country and likely will be a first-round pick next year. He has all the tools to be a productive island blocker and has very good technique.
The Trojan coaches are waiting for Kalil, the brother of Carolina Panthers center Ryan Kalil, to take his game to the next level, which should be in 2011.
77. Geno Smith, QB: West Virginia
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Smith has elite physical talent and flashed it last season in Morgantown. He has a cannon for an arm, flashes some accuracy, quick feet and can make plays with his legs.
I wouldn't be shocked if Smith is deemed to be ranked too low at this point next season, since I expect Dana Holgorsen to take his game, and stats, to new heights in 2011.
Look for some offensive fireworks from Smith and the Mountaineers this year.
76. Jeff Demps, RB: Florida
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Demps is this low only because I question his fit into the new pro-style offense Florida is installing. He's not an every-down back in my opinion, but he is an elite football player.
Only 5'8" and just 180 pounds or so, Demps is one of the fastest athletes in collegiate sports. Not just college football, but all collegiate sports, as he runs a 6.57 60-yard dash.
Talk around Gainesville is he is the fastest Gator of all time.
75. Damaris Johnson, WR: Tulsa
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There are some who say Johnson has too many detractors going for him. For starters, he's only 5'8", next is he plays in a spread offense that throws the ball almost every snap.
But, whatever. The dude can ball. Look at his numbers and you'll see he has over 7,700 yards of offense in his career already and is primed to have his name all around the NCAA record books.
He's back for one last go in Tulsa and should approach some single-season records with G.J. Kinne tossing the rock.
74. E.J. Manuel, QB: Florida State
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I almost feel guilty ranking Manuel this low because I'm a fan of his, but he has had to wait his turn behind Christian Ponder the past few years.
Now it's time for the 6'4", 225-pound, talented Manuel to take over the FSU huddle. He has flashed skill and talent when he has been seen in games filling in for Ponder, but this will be his first full season as the man.
All eyes will be on Manuel in 2011.
73. Kelechi Osemele, OT: Iowa State
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After making the second team All-Big 12 squad for the past two seasons, it's time for Osemele to take his game to a new level. He's a 6'5" athletic specimen that can play LT with ease.
Iowa State is not the class of CFB, but the Osemele is one of the best players in the country. He has NFL-caliber talent and is one of the premier OT's in America.
72. Silas Redd, RB: Penn State
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Doesn't it seem like Penn State has a solid RB every year? Redd is a better RB prospect than Evan Royster was at this stage of his career, and many fans claim Redd was better than Royster last year.
He's a 5'10", 200-pounder with good speed, solid run strength and juice to skate to and through holes in run alleys. He average nearly six yards a touch last year on just 77 touches—wowsers.
71. Kendall Wright, WR: Baylor
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All the talk in the Big 12 as far as best QB-WR combos is between Bradon Weeden-Justin Blackmon vs. Landry Jones-Ryan Broyles.
But what about Robert Griffin and Kendall Wright? Wright is likely faster and quicker than Blackmon and Broyles and has nearly 200 receptions in three years.
He's a deep threat that is a threat to take it to the house as a RAC player.
70. Aaron Murray, QB; Georgia
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Murray is a franchise-caliber QB and the type of signal-caller you build your program around. He has become more of a vocal leader this spring, and Mark Richt has been basically bragging about him all offseason.
He had a solid year as first-year starter in his freshman season but must find a viable receiving target, likely in Orson Charles.
Look for Murray to finish this season heavy in conversation for best QB in the SEC.
69. Cliff Harris, CB: Oregon
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You can easily tack Harris on the list of players who got robbed of All-American honors. He's one the best corners in the Pac-12 and perhaps the country.
He had six interceptions and showed his 5'11", 180-pound frame has elite cover skills, transition quickness, natural instincts and play speed.
Harris will be playing on Sundays.
68. Kawann Short, DT: Purdue
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Short was a Freshman All-American two seasons ago but has been in the shadow of Ryan Kerrigan since he became a Boilermaker.
Now that's about to change, as teams will design their protection schemes around the 6'3", 305-pound Short, who had 4.5 sacks and 12.5 TFL's last season.
Excellent snap quickness, quick double-team recognition, strength at the point of attack and shed ability are just some traits to Short's game.
67. Stepfan Taylor, RB: Stanford
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Stanford will try to keep many of the same principles and mindset Jim Harbaugh instilled in the program—one of those being the bullying power running game.
Taylor is the key cog to the rushing attack, as the 5'11", 205-pounder will try to top the 1,100-yard season he had last year.
He'll be relied on heavily by Andrew Luck as surely teams will be geared to stop the talented QB, and Taylor must be ready to shoulder the offensive load.
66. Donte Paige-Moss, DE: North Carolina
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I thought last year may have been Butch Davis' best coaching effort, as he had the Tar Heels more than competitive, even though they lost many of their crucial players to suspension.
Paige-Moss is one of a pair of bookend DE prospects Davis has, and is 6'4", 260 pounds. He was a star last year for the Tar Heels as he registered 49 stops and seven sacks.
Ten sacks should be easily reachable for Paige-Moss in 2011.
65. Chase Minnifield, CB: Virginia
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Wasn't it supposed to be Ras-I Dowling that was the stud Cav CB? Dowling was hurt almost every week, and like a star, Minnifield stepped up and assumed the No. 1 CB role for Mike London.
At 6'0", 180 pounds, he had six picks in the first eight games for the Cavs, using his size, length and athletic ability to make plays on balls like a receiver.
He will undoubtedly be assigned to each team's top WR week in and week out in 2011.
64. Sean Spence, LB: Miami
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A good friend of mine and a great source for Miami Hurricane football insider info told me Spence is the Hurricanes' best defensive player and probably overall player as well.
Spence came to Coral Gables a bit in the shadow of Arthur Brown but quickly showed he was a smarter and more instinctive player than the now-transferred Brown.
Spence is a 6'0", 220-pound, speedy, second-level defender and probably is one of the rare Miami players the past few years that could have seen time on the early 2000's teams.
63. Jeff Fuller, WR: Texas A&M
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For some reason, Fuller started out hot then faded down the stretch of last year. He had 55 receptions and over 10 scores in the initial eight weeks of the year, then just basically declined into irrelevance.
The only reason he's this high on this list is because he was that good in those first eight weeks. He needs to put a full season of productivity together and become a consistent and reliable threat for Ryan Tannehill.
62. Keenan Robinson, LB: Texas
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Robinson was a playmaker on a very good Texas defense that had to be frustrated due to the lack of support from the offense last year.
At 6'3" and 240 pounds, Robinson was the leader and leading tackler of the Longhorn defense, and now with Many Diaz calling shots in Austin, should see his game raised to a new level in 2011.
He should find himself seriously in the Butkus conversation this year.
61. Isaiah Pead, RB: Cincinnati
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Pead is a 5'10", 200-pound RB who has a main, but imperative, trait to have: speed. Lots of it.
He shows excellent stop and start ability, acceleration and burst to and through holes. He jumps LB's in run alleys, and if he's allowed to square his shoulders on wide runs and get to the edges, he's likely gone.
Butch Jones didn't have the initial year he wanted to for the Bearcats, and this year is a get-back year for Cinci. Look for Pead to help lead the rallying charge.
60. Tank Carder, LB: TCU
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Gary Patterson is one of the elite defensive minds in the country and runs an interesting 4-2-5 defense. Carder is one of his stars, and more importantly, one of his smartest players.
Having over 150 stops in the past two seasons, the 6'2", 235-pound Carder is a high-energy, high-motor type of LB who prides himself on preparation and work ethic.
He's physical, loves to mix it up and will be one of the main leaders of a Horned Frog squad looking to get back into a BCS bowl game.
59. Mike Martin, DT: Michigan
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Well, we all know Michigan's defense has been just downright awful the past few seasons, especially last year. But Mike Martin has been a solid player for Big Blue.
Now coming into his senior year, and with Greg Mattison in charge of the Michigan defense, the 6'2", 300-pound Martin should move himself into the upper echelon of defensive players in the country.
58. Nigel Bradham, LB: Florida State
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Bradham was a star recruit when he signed with the Noles and has not disappointed, totaling over 200 stops in his career in Tallahassee.
He's growing into becoming one of the best second-level defenders in the country, and along with a talented secondary for FSU, is one of the many reasons Jimbo Fisher has his program in the ACC title hunt going into 2011.
It will be interesting to see what Bradham does in 2011 and if he opts to go pro after this season.
57. Taylor Martinez, QB: Nebraska
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Martinez had a great start to the season in 2010, then somewhere along the road, defenses started to figure him out. I'm really interested to see how he comes back this season and what he does to counter defenses.
He's an elite dual-threat QB who not only has great passing skills, but has top-caliber speed and playmaking ability as a runner.
You also have to wonder if his relationship with Bo Pelini is back to normal.
56. Jaye Howard, DT: Florida
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Soon enough, the top DT's on the UF roster are going to be Sharrif Floyd and Dominique Easley. But until then, Howard is the man in the middle for the Gator defense.
Howard finished with 10 TFL's, was a stout run defender and was strong on his feet to anchor vs. interior blocks. What's nice about Howard is he is part of a rotation in the DT unit, thus the snaps he gets should see a fresh player on the field.
55. Shayne Skov, LB: Stanford
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Skov is a 6'3", 245-pound LB for the Cardinal who led the team with 83 tackles in 2010. He plays with a lot of passion, toughness and instincts.
With Stanford playing with a good amount of effort, toughness and smarts under Jim Harbaugh, Skov was one of the prime examples of the type of player Harbaugh loved and brought into the program.
Now Skov must continue that style under David Shaw.
54. T.J. McDonald, DS: USC
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McDonald has All-American talent and was one of just few defensive bright spots for the Trojans in 2010. But with Monte Kiffin simplifying the defense, players should be able to play faster and smarter.
One of those players expected to become a national star is McDonald, a 6'3", 205-pound junior safety who hits like a truck and led the team in tackles.
McDonald is the next great USC safety along the lineage of Ronnie Lott and Troy Polamalu, showing better instincts than Darnell Bing and Taylor Mays.
53. Kevin Reddick, LB: North Carolina
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Bruce Carter is gone and so is Quan Sturdivant. But no fear, Reddick, who led the team with nearly 80 tackles, is back in Chapel Hill.
At 6'3", 230 pounds, Reddick has great play speed and instincts, and fills alleys quickly and physically. He will team with Zach Brown to form a solid LB duo for Butch Davis in 2011.
52. Brandon Lindsey, DE: Pitt
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Another player in line to fill some big shoes, Lindsey is stepping in for former Big East DPOY Jabaal Sheard and Greg Romeus.
At 6'2", 250 pounds, Lindsey was second in the conference with 10 sacks last year.
Now, he will have to show if he can hang with the boys, meaning can he still be productive and a prime-time player now with offenses keying in on him.
51. Robert Lester, DS: Alabama
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Mark Barron gets a lot of the ink in Tuscaloosa, but Lester likely will develop into a better player by the time he leaves town. Lester is that good, and when you realized he had eight picks last year as a sophomore, you see why.
At 6'2", 205 pounds, he can play either safety spot and is a flat-out ball hawk. He plays with great instincts, range, speed and ball skills, showing an understanding of Nick Saban's complicated defensive scheme.
The Crimson Tide deep middle is shored up very well.
50. Nick Foles, QB: Arizona
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Foles has a complete skill set that has many NFL scouts intrigued by his talent. He stands 6'5", 245 pounds, has solid mechanics, a good arm and shows an ability to beat defenses with his mind.
Former UCLA and now Broncos safety Rahim Moore said figuring Foles out during a game was one of the hardest things he had to do in college.
Foles has his top target back in Juron Criner, so look for some nice numbers for the tandem.
49. Chris Polk, RB: Washington
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I remember watching tape on Polk as a high school player in the Inland Empire of Southern California and seeing a skinny athlete who could play RB, WR and CB. He committed to USC, and many felt he'd be a CB in Troy.
But Polk de-committed in the middle of the cycle and signed with Washington, feeling he was best as a RB. Now, he is the best rock-toter in the conference and will be lunch pail carrier for the Husky offense as they break in Keith Price.
48. Stephen Gilmore, CB: South Carolina
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Gilmore may be this year's Patrick Peterson in the SEC. He's a big corner at 6'1", 190 pounds and has elite athletic ability on the defensive perimeter.
He takes the top WR for Gamecock opponents and holds his own on the island. What's also nice about Gilmore is that he will come up and play the run, evidenced by having over 130 career tackles.
I think Gilmore will be a first-round pick next April.
47. Kheeston Randall, DT: Texas
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Randall will team with Robinson as two of the prime leaders of Manny Diaz's new defensive scheme in Texas. It will be a multiple 4-3 look, and expect the 6'5", 300-pound Randall to have a big season.
Randall will flash dominance one play then be nowhere to be found for a stretch. Diaz, I fully expect, will be able to get more consistency out of him, which will then show the country just how good Randall truly is.
46. Cyrus Gray, RB: Texas A&M
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Cyrus Gray comes into the 2011 season with team goals on his mind, like say a Big 12 title. But you have think that somewhere inside Gray, he's thinking a Big 12 rushing title would look pretty good on his resume.
At 5'10" and 195 pounds, Gray has 21 scores and is approaching 2,800 total yards of offense as an Aggie. He will team with Jeff Fuller and Ryan Tannehill to form a three-headed offensive monster in College Station.
45. Marcus Fortson, DT: Miami
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The only reason I have Forston ranked above Spence is the fact that Fortson has a higher ceiling at his position. Maybe I'm a prisoner of potential, but the 6'3", 305-pound Fortson has a world of it.
He was a Freshman All-American, but I think was a victim of the Randy Shannon coaching theme: don't develop players.
Al Golden will surely develop Forston, who has NFL talent.
44. Michael Egnew, TE: Missouri
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Perhaps the best TE in the country, Egnew's numbers may be handcuffed and see a dip this year as he will playing with a new QB.
But he's 6'6", 240 pounds and has very soft hands and natural pass catching skills. Egnew caught 90 balls last year and can get up the seams in a hurry.
I don't think he grabs 90 balls in 2011, but he still should be a productive receiving threat in the Tiger spread offense.
43. Courtney Upshaw, LB: Alabama
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Upshaw is the "Jack" LB for the Tide and is just another elite defender that happens to play for Alabama. If this Tide defense doesn't set records this year, then that will be one of the biggest let-downs in CFB in recent memory.
At 6'2", 250 pounds, Upshaw is a great LB for Nick Saban, as he can rush the passer, track the run and make plays all over the field.
He finished last season with seven sacks and 14.5 TFL's.
42. Robert Griffin, QB: Baylor
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Griffin is one the best athletes in the country and stands 6'3", 215 pounds. He's an exciting player to watch and has been the face of Baylor football for the past few seasons.
Baylor will surely unveil a Heisman campaign for him in 2011, and with Kendall Wright back as his main deep target, I expect Baylor to make a move up in the Big 12 standings.
A dual-threat QB, Griffin can make plays with his arm and legs and can carry an offense.
41. G.J. Kinne, QB: Tulsa
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I'm not even going to get into the numbers Kinne put up the past few years. I'm just going to say they were good, and Kinne can approach some 4,500 yards through the air this year.
Damaris Johnson is back, and those two as a QB-WR tandem are among the tops in the nation. Todd Graham is gone to Pitt, but former WR coach Bill Blakenship will lead the Golden Hurricane, who could be a preseason Top 25 squad.
40. Robert Woods, WR: USC
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Woods has been fantastic this spring, and Lane Kiffin knows his star freshman receiver likely only has two more seasons left at USC because he's going to be a three-and-out guy.
At 6'1", 185 pounds, Woods will be Matt Barkley's main and prime go-to receiver. He made the Freshman All-American team last year as he had 64 receptions for nearly 800 yards and six scores.
Woods is also a great return man and reminds me of a faster and more athletic Steve Smith.
39. Jayron Hosley, CB: Virginia Tech
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You look at Hosley and you see a 5'10", 170-pound corner and you just say "oh, whatever." Yeah, that's what Hosley wants you to say.
Because when you throw at him, chances are he's going to catch it, and he's not on your team. Hosley picked off eight balls in 2010 and has elite ball skills for a corner.
So, yeah, throw his way again in 2011, and we could see 10 interceptions attached to Hosley's name.
38. Tyler Wilson, QB: Arkansas
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A little high for Wilson, I know. Plus, I know Aaron Murray has superior numbers to the Hog QB. I know. But I love Wilson; he showed tremendous poise when he stepped in for Ryan Mallet vs. Auburn and made you say "wait, this dude's the backup?"
He looks like a future star and has an arsenal around him to help him, with three star WR's and Knile Davis back.
Look for Wilson to explode this year in his first season as a starter.
37. Mike Adams, OT: Ohio State
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One of the unsung problems going into the Buckeye season this year is the loss of Adams for five games. Sure Terrelle Pryor is the QB and losing your field general is always the bigger loss, but Adams is the LT, and I'm sure Joe Bauserman or Braxton Miller would have loved to have him anchoring the line.
Adams is a 6'8", 305-pounder that came to Columbus as an elite and highly sought-after recruit, and has played solidly for Jim Tressel.
He was first team All-Big Ten last year and could be the biggest loss of the suspended five.
36. Ronnie Hillman, RB: San Diego State
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There once was a speedster at RB for San Diego State. He was fast and gave defenses headaches. Long runs he popped, he couldn't be stopped, he went by the name of Marshall Faulk.
Hillman has heard his name whispered around Faulk's in comparison as the 5'10", speedster topped 1,500 yards last year with 18 scores.
SDSU is looking to keep the upwards trend going this year, despite the loss of Brady Hoke. Hillman will surely be a big part of their efforts.
35. Kirk Cousins, QB: Michigan State
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Cousins tossed for over 2,800 yards and 20 TDs in 2010, showing he can guide a team to solid victories, in fact, 11 times.
At 6'3", and over 200 pounds, Cousins had a solid year, but it wasn't elite. I think this year we will see Cousins become an elite player and showing why the NFL has interest in the Spartan signal-caller.
He may be the most complete QB in the Big Ten.
34. Dont'a Hightower, LB: Alabama
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Rolando McClain left for the NFL, Hightower came back and took over the 'Bama defense. He's a huge ILB at 6'4", 260 pounds and registered 69 tackles in 2010 and was the defensive leader.
Nico Johnson is another Tide LB I like, but it's Hightower who came back from a torn ACL and was a standout for Nick Saban.
Yawn. Another Alabama defensive player makes the list. Next.
33. Greg Childs, WR: Arkansas
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Hog fans will make an argument that if they had Childs, then they would have won the Sugar Bowl over Ohio State. You can't deny the 6'3", 215-pound Childs' abilities as he shows a near-complete skill set.
He only appeared in eight games, but still had 46 grabs for 659 yards and six scores. He will be one of Tyler Wilson's top targets.
32. Omar Bolden, CB: Arizona State
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Bolden wanted to go to USC, badly. But for some reason, Pete Carroll took too long to offer him a scholarship and by the time NSD came, it was too late.
Now, the 5'10", 195-pound super athlete is one of top DBs in the Pac-12. He is an imperative piece to the Sun Devil defense, as in the pass-happy Pac-12, a corner of Bolden's caliber is more than crucial to a defense's success.
31. Chris Owusu, WR: Stanford
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Another Pac-12 player, Owusu is not as big a name to you likely because he was hurt much of last year. But the 6'2" WR is one of the top pass catchers on the West Coast.
He will be Andrew Luck's top target this year and should be able to use his length and frame to catch a slew of balls from the franchise QB on The Farm.
30. Bruce Irvin, DE: West Virginia
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Irvin came to Morgantown with a near mythical status from the JC ranks. And now, he has a near mythical status in the FBS ranks because, yeah, 14 sacks and 14 TFL's will get you that kind of outlook.
At 6'3", 240 pounds, Irvin is a prime-time pass-rusher who has elite first-step quickness, a burst to close and bend ability off the edge.
Can Irvin best 14 sacks in 2011 for Bill Stewart?
29. Nate Potter, OT: Boise State
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Potter is a prime example as to why the star system doesn't really mean much. He's a former 2-star recruit. Yeah. Two stars. Two.
Now, he's one of the best OTs in CFB and stands 6'6", 300 pounds. He can play LT or RT and will be a solid pro in the NFL.
But first, he is charged with protecting Kellen Moore.
28. Darron Thomas, QB: Oregon
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Oregon fans were worried when Chip Kelly booted Jeremiah Masoli off the team, but Thomas shut them all up pretty quickly. A perfect fit for the speed tempo-spread offense Kelly runs, Thomas is a dual-threat QB who plays like a point guard.
He had 35 total touchdowns in 2010 and is the distributor of the football and key to the limo that is Oregon Duck offensive football.
He is one the pillars and faces of the program and certainly could see himself in the Heisman race in 2011.
27. Brandon Jenkins, DE: Florida State
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Mark Stoops proved to be a big-time coaching difference as FSU saw a dramatic turnaround on defense and its talent showed on the field. One of the players that had a breakout year was Jenkins, a 6'3", 245-pound DE.
Jenkins was flat-out amazing, as he totaled 13.5 sacks and 21.5 TFLs in 2011. He's likely playing in his final season for FSU as just about every 3-4 NFL team will send four to five scouts to check out Jenkins as a stand-up rusher.
26. Denard Robinson, QB: Michigan
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Robinson is another player who could be a lot higher. He's one of the msot exciting players in the nation and an intriguing 2011 storyline.
Robinson was recruited specifically to play QB in Rich Rodriguez's spread offense as a dual-threat phenom, but Brady Hoke and Al Borges will employ a more traditional pocket passing and two-back rushing attack.
Robinson will adjust but look for Borges to still use him how he should be used in Ann Arbor.
25. Jared Crick, DT: Nebraska
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Crick became the eye of opposing teams' blocking game plans with all-world N'Damukong Suh gone to the Lions. But the 6'6", 285-pounder held his own and fared well in 2010, with 9.5 sacks and 14.5 TFL's.
Look for Crick to rival those numbers again in 2011 and to be in the race for Big 12 DPOY, as he is back to anchor a talented Cornhusker DL on a talented Cornhusker defense.
24. Landry Jones, QB: Oklahoma
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Jones is an elite signal-caller, and I remember when he was a fat high school kid from New Mexico who could toss the rock far. Now, he's one of the best QB's in the country and a future NFL QB.
He won 12 games in his first full year as a starter and tossed for 4,700 yards. He's in sync with his OC, Josh Heupel, and has Ryan Broyles back as a his top target.
Can Jones win the Heisman?
23. Luke Kuechly, LB: Boston College
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Production. That's what we all want from players. At any position for that matter.
Well, Kuechly has been more than productive, shown by his 341 tackles in just two seasons for BC. A 6'3", 235-pound LB, Kuechly led the nation in tackles in 2010 and could do it again in 2011.
He plays like a man with his hair on fire, showing great technique and instincts to make stop after stop.
22. Kenny Tate, DS: Maryland
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One of the prime players to usher in the Randy Edsall era, Tate is a top-level back end defender. He's big and rangy, standing 6'4", 220 pounds.
He plays with great instincts, zone cover skills, range and athleticism. He chose to stay at Maryland even though he could have been a higher pick than Rahim Moore.
Look for Tate to contend for the Thorpe trophy again in 2011.
21. Trent Richardson, RB: Alabama
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Wow, what do you know, Alabama has an offensive stud. Trent Richardson has his chance now—he is not Robin anymore.
It's up to Richardson, a 5'11", 220-pound RB, to prove those who claim he's better than Mark Ingram right. He's supremely talented and will be the main rock carrier for the Tide in 2011.
He's topped 700 yards twice, but now a 1,000-yard season is the goal in 2011.
20. Travis Lewis, LB: Oklahoma
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Lewis is here over Kuechly due to being a bit more athletic, but both are great LBs. Lewis is 6'2", 230 pounds and has great production as well with over 300 tackles in his career.
He's been the lunch pail carrier for the defense the past three years, leading the team in stops year in and year out. I expect him to pass the defensive torch over to Tony Jefferson after this season in Norman.
19. Lavonte David, LB: Nebraska
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Davis is a bit undersized at just 210 pounds on a 6'1" frame, but he could have played in the "blackshirt golden days." He plays with great speed, quickness, quick key diagnose and instincts.
That's why he is the early favorite for Big 12 DPOY, since he led the conference with over 150 stops last year. He won Newcomer of the Year and was an All-American.
Butkus this year? Two hundred tackles? Hmm.
18. Michael Dyer, RB: Auburn
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Dyer will come into his sophomore in a completely different role than last year: as "The Man."
He is now the star of the team and pillar of the offense for the Tigers and rightfully so. He made a dazzling run in the title game and totaled over 1,000 yards as a freshman for Auburn.
You may think this a bit high for him at this notch, but talk to me after this season and we'll see who's right.
17. Jerel Worthy, DT: Michigan State
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Worthy enters his junior season with a lot riding on it. He needs to really sell out this year to get the Spartans to the Rose Bowl and to also show he is a first-round-caliber talent.
At 6'3", 305 pounds, someone on the Spartan defense needs to take the lead with Greg Jones and Eric Gordon gone, and Worthy should be that guy.
If it happens, look for the Spartans to win another a Big Ten title.
16. Jonathan Martin, OT: Stanford
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Martin is the best OL on the Cardinal squad and can play up and down the offensive front, including LT.
He's a great athlete who combines excellent technique, set quickness, patience, knee bend strength and smarts to make a great OL. Martin stands 6'6", 305 pounds and is the anchor of a front that is charged with protecting one Andrew Luck.
15. Manti Te'o, LB: Notre Dame
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Te'o has been the 5-star caliber player we've expected him to be. I remember seeing his high school highlight tape and being amazed by his play speed, instincts and hitting ability.
He can play all three LB spots in a 4-3, and fits into Notre Dame's 3-4 scheme fairly well. The 6'2", 245-pounder is likely a first-round NFL draft pick whenever he comes out.
14. Marcus Lattimore, RB: South Carolina
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Lattimore is a legend around the Palmetto State and is going to be the RB that Demetris Summers never was. At 6'0", 220 pounds, Lattimore came into Columbia and basically said the rushing offense was to be put on his shoulders.
It was, and he carried over 1,200 yards long and added 19 scores. He's one of the prime reasons why no matter who plays QB for the Gamecocks, another SEC title run is in store.
13. Alfonzo Dennard, CB: Nebraska
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Well, Prince Amukamara slipped a bit in the first round last month, and we all kind of scratched our heads as to why.
Come to find out, it was scouts seeing Alfonzo Dennard making just as many plays as Amukamara and him taking on No. 1 WRs just as much as his counterpart.
Now Dennard will be the sure-fire No. 1 CB and looks up to the challenge. At 5'10", 195 pounds, Dennard had four picks and is an amazing athlete. He'll be a first-round pick next year.
12. Terrelle Pryor, QB: Ohio State
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Pryor has won 33 out of 36 games and has been an anchor of the Ohio State program since he finally signed with them. At 6'6", 240 pounds, we all agree Pryor is a specimen, I just think he needs to improve his overall QB game.
Pryor is one of the more "hated on" players in CFB, but you can't deny he's been productive. He gone for the first five games, but when he comes back, if Ohio State can be 4-1 or perhaps even 5-0, he could guide the Buckeyes to another Big Ten title.
11. Quinton Coples, DL: North Carolina
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Yeah, Marvin Austin and Robert Quinn were nice and all, but Coples and Paige-Moss actually were stars in their own right for the Tar Heels, making the latter DLs expendable.
Now Coples comes into 2011 after posting 10 sacks and 15.5 TFLs in 2010, a breakout year for him. He has first-round talent and now is the dominant force for the UNC defense.
10. Michael Floyd, WR: Notre Dame
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Floyd being back and overcoming his off-the-field problems is a huge coup for Brian Kelly in year two. Floyd is a special player, and to me, has a brighter future than Golden Tate.
At 6'3", 225 pounds, Floyd plays faster than his timed speed, has strength to beat press coverage off the line, athleticism to adjust to balls in flight, and very strong hands.
He would have been a late first-round pick this past year and with another good season, could move himself into the the top 10 next April.
9. Mark Barron, DS: Alabama
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Barron could have come out last year and would have been a second-round pick more than likely. He chose to stay for another season and is now viewed as one of the elite defenders in America.
He has a great skill set, showing ability to play free and strong safety by factoring in the box and in the deep middle.
It's time for Barron to put a full display of his skills into a complete season. I think he can and will in 2011.
8. Alshon Jeffrey, WR: South Carolina
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A big, strong, physical and athletic WR, Jeffrey is the top WR in the SEC and likely in the country. At 6'4", 230 pounds, he is as big as a tight end but runs like a cornerback.
Jeffrey caught 88 balls for over 1,500 yards and is the No. 1 target for either Conor Shaw or Stephen Garcia.
This is likely Jeffrey's last season in Columbia.
7. Matt Barkley, QB: USC
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I saw Barkley play as a ninth-grader in high school on the varsity for Mater Dei in Orange County, CA, and you knew then the kid was a special player. He got better every year in high school and was the top QB in the country in 2010 recruiting.
Now Barkley, an "outlier" according to Pete Carroll, is the face of USC football. At 6'2", 220 pounds, Barkley has all of the tools you look for in a franchise QB.
He has become a vocal leader this spring, and I think with the NFL looming over his head, he balls out this year for USC.
6. Knile Davis, RB: Arkansas
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Getting 1,300 yards in the SEC is not like walking into Krispy Kreme and getting a free sample, folks—it's tough. David stood 6'0", 220 pounds last year, but word has it he has bulked up to 230 pounds to shoulder the load and be stronger.
He's a prime-time runner who also chipped in 14 touchdowns, for an offense that is mainly focused on tossing the rock. He'll take some pressure off of Tyler Wilson and will be among the Heisman hopefuls.
5. Ryan Broyles, WR: Oklahoma
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You lead the country in receptions, that usually means you're pretty darn good. Broyles had an amazing 131 receptions in a 2010 that was just flat-out silly.
He has has QB back in Landry Jones, and if they can find a running game to keep defenses honest, they should put up some more gaudy numbers.
At 5'11", 185, Broyles is probably the best Sooner WR since Mark Clayton and has very good separation quickness.
4. Vontaze Burfict, LB: Arizona State
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I remember when Burfict dominated the LA NIKE Camp the spring before his senior year and pledged to USC a few weeks later. Troy was buzzing as their next No. 55 was in store.
However, Burfict changed his mind, rumored due to academic reasons, and has become the player expected of him in Tempe. I think the 6'3", 245-pounder is the top LB in the country and likely is in his final season for the Sun Devils as he'll be a first-round pick.
3. Justin Blackmon, WR: Oklahoma State
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Where the heck did he come from? Seriously.
Wow, another reason the star system sucks in recruiting. Blackmon now 6'1", 205 pounds, was a 3-star recruit, but the Pokes were laughing because they knew he had 5-star potential. And last year, he reached it.
111 catches. 1,700 yards. 21 touchdowns.
Three stars? Really?
2. LaMichael James, RB: Oregon
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James was a Heisman finalist last year as he ran the Ducks into the BCS title game. I think, even though Lache Seastrunk and Kenjon Banner will be factored more into the offense this year, there is a 2,000-yard season in James, potentially.
He's not very big at only 5'9", 185 pounds, but James has very good speed, quickness, agility, balance, run instincts, elusiveness and vision.
Oregon will be a Top Five ranked team in 2011, and James is one of the pillar reasons why.
(Tie) 1. Kellen Moore, QB: Boise State
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I have Moore this high because he is ultra important to entire Boise State program. You can make a compelling argument that the rise of Bronco football this decade has been symbolized by the play of Kellen Moore.
He's the most efficient player, not just QB, but player in college football. He's not the biggest, strongest armed or fleetest of foot, but Moore beats you with his mind.
He probably has the best instincts of any QB in the country, is always keenly prepared and probably will be stud offensive coordinator or head coach one day.
(Tie) 1. Andrew Luck, QB: Stanford
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Who else would be here? Luck's the best player in the country. He's the most complete QB prospect since Peyton Manning, as he's played in a pro-style offense (Bradford), is athletic and a running threat (Ryan) and has been consistent throughout his career (Palmer).
Luck would have been the No. 1 pick to Carolina last month and will be the top pick next year. He's a complete prospect who grades out high in every critical position factor.
The Heisman awaits him this fall.
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