College Football Recruiting 2012: Predictions for the Top 10 5-Star Recruits

I'm just trying to predict where the top 10 uncommitted 5-star recruits will end up. Geez, this thing can change any given day, because these kids flip-flop and change their minds very easily.

With some de-commitments coming in the past few weeks, we may even have some new entrants into the top 10 5-star players who remain uncommitted. So to find out that and more, plus where I think they may be headed to, come on inside!

10. Arik Armstead, DE

Armstead is freshly back on the market, as he has de-committed from USC. The 6'8", 280-pounder wants to play DE in college, and might be open to playing DT. But do not talk to him about playing OT.

With his size, strength, very good athleticism and snap quickness, Armstead should be a standout wherever he ends up.

Notre Dame, Alabama, Cal, Michigan and USC are in the race. I think he comes back to USC in the end.

9. Shaq Thompson, DB

Thompson is a 6'1", 185-pound safety prospect who can also play running back and a little bit of cornerback as well.

His brother Syd plays for the Denver Broncos, and Shaq was the top player for NorCal powerhouse Grant HS (Calif.) as a junior.

I know just last week I was saying Cal, but as it looks right now, I think Oregon could win this race.

8. Landon Collins, DB/LB

Collins is a 5-star recruit and one of the top players in the country, as he can play safety and outside linebacker. At 6'0", 210 pounds, Collins shows to be uber-instinctive in the box, physical versus the run and rangy to chase and pursue.

He's productive in space in coverage, showing an ability to factor in the zone, due to his awareness. He always finds a way to the ball and hates getting caught in traffic. Look for him to be one of the best strong safeties to come out of this class.

I can easily say ask me after November 5th, but I think I like LSU over Alabama right now—for Collins, not predicting the game yet.

7. Eddie Goldman, DT

Goldman is a 6'5", 305-plus pound defensive tackle who has "special" written all over him. He has the quickness to jump blockers at the snap, strength to toss and shed and anchor ability to stop double teams in their tracks and make a mess in the middle.

He wants to play 4-3 tackle, but some teams like him at 3-4 nose. He can play both well in my opinion, and could even play 3-4 end. He isn't a wow-you type of athlete who will chase in pursuit, but Goldman does have a bit of range.

I'm thinking Florida State for now.

6. Stefon Diggs, WR

Diggs is a player who can factor as a receiver or safety. I could move him onto the ATH board or DS board, but in the end, he is simply too good with the ball in his hands not to play on offense, in my opinion.

At 6'1", 190 pounds, he is a quicker than fast athlete, but he does have tremendous speed. His RAC ability is amazing, and he is likely tops in this category in the country for 2012. Diggs can shake, bake and clean the dishes routinely.

I like Florida to win over Diggs.

5. Keith Marshall, RB

Perhaps the fastest running back in the country, Marshall is a touchdown machine.I liken him to a Marshall Faulk, as he can impact the game as a runner, receiver and even as a returner.

At 5'11", 185 pounds, Marshall has been timed in the 4.3 range in the 40. He shows a great burst, quickness, elusiveness and good vision.

I had Georgia getting Marshall last week, but after an amazing trip to Florida, I think the Gators win out here.

4. Kwon Alexander, OLB

At 6'2", 210 pounds, Alexander is a fantastic linebacker prospect. He has tremendous play speed and range and will be a three-down defender in college. Unfortunately, Alexander is out for the year with a torn ACL.

He projects well at WILL, but I think he can also play SAM in a 4-3 scheme, due to his ability to carry tight ends around the field in coverage.

I was thinking Florida State, but something tells me Alexander winds up at 'Bama

3. Noah Spence, DE

Spence is the top pure pass-rusher in the country, and easily has the quickest first two steps in America. He flies off the ball and gets after the QB with tenacity, passion and sheer speed.

At 6'4", 245 pounds, Spence can also stand up as a 3-4 OLB and rush the passer, while also making plays from the backside against the run.

I think Penn State beats out North Carolina State.

2. Andrus Peat, OT

At 6'7", 300 pounds, Peat is the top line prospect in the country, and will be a franchise left tackle.

He reminds me a lot of USC left tackle Matt Kalil coming out of high school: sound in his technique, smart, patient and savvy in pass protection; Peat is an elite offensive lineman.

I think Nebraska eventually convinces him to play with his brother.

1. Dorial Green-Beckham, WR

I have Green-Beckham as the top player in the country on my board, as do many other talent evaluators.

At 6'6" and 220 pounds, Green-Beckham has the hands, separation quickness, catch-in-crowd ability and playmaking talent to become a dominant receiver in college.

I'll take a stab and say Oklahoma, but watch out for Missouri, Texas, Arkansas and Alabama.