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Hes a Michigan guy, which means his arrogance is at a 10
2013 College Football Thread (Realer than Real Deal Holyfield -->S/O Craftsy)
- Thread in 'Sports & Training' Thread starter Started by gunna get it,
- Start date
Hes a Michigan guy, which means his arrogance is at a 10
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I thought he was working his magic at VT? Reinforced Logan Thomas' arc from a Heisman hopeful/1st rounder to a 5th round TE project...(LT did that to himself way before Loeffler got there but whatever).
I feel like Beamer has something against hiring decent OCs. I know the talent hasn't been there but damn.
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Auburn was loaded with talent, he just tried to fit a square peg in a round hole.
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rell826
Banned
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Johnny F. isn't feeling well per A&M and isn't at awards show the guy just probably went HAM over the weekend since he's "allowed" to drink alcohol now
#Hungover
the guy just probably went HAM over the weekend since he's "allowed" to drink alcohol now#Hungover
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Top 25 Freshman in the nation (according to ESPN)
ESPN.com: College Football [Print without images]
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
Top 25 CFB underclassmen
By Todd McShay, Steve Muench and Kevin Weidl
ESPN Insider
Narrowing down the best underclassmen (non-draft-eligible players) in college football into a single top 25 ranking wasn't easy. Not only are there a lot of worthy candidates, but in watching these guys on tape, you could really notice a difference between the true freshmen and the second-year players (redshirt freshmen and true sophomores) -- there was a significant gap in terms of technique, awareness and physicality.
In ordering the top 25, we took the following factors into account:
-- While players in their second seasons who were more polished and consistent were rewarded for it, we tried to also balance out a first-year player's overall talent and potential when comparing the two against each other. This is a ranking of college ability, not pro potential (although there are plenty of guys on this list with the chance to make the NFL one day), but upside still factored into how we ranked players.
-- Injuries had an impact on the rankings, both in terms of durability concerns and the fact that being limited by injury or missing games cut into certain players' productivity.
-- When we were stuck on how to rank one player in comparison to another, we asked ourselves the following question: If you could have two or three more seasons with any of these players at the college level, who would you recruit to play for your team? Each player's potential and durability factored into answering that question.
With those factors in mind, here is our ranking of the top 25 underclassmen in college football for 2013:
1. Jameis Winston, QB, Florida State Seminoles
Redshirt freshman | 6-foot-4, 228 pounds
Winston has uncommon poise for a first-year starting quarterback, which is reflected both in his decision-making and pocket presence. He has shown the ability to compartmentalize his off-the-field issues this season and maintain focus in his preparation and in games.
As a passer, Winston flashes excellent ball placement on difficult intermediate throws and throws a catchable ball. He does a good job of leading receivers and is very accurate when rolling to his right (he isn't as consistent when rolling left), although he does have a tendency to miss within the strike zone on passes over the middle.
Winston has very good velocity on his fastball and can squeeze passes into tight windows, getting good zip on his passes even when defenders are hanging all over him. He has an elongated delivery -- it isn't surprising he's a baseball player -- but his release is still quicker than most QBs who have his windmill style.
Going forward he'll need to prove he can lead his team from behind and deliver in "clutch" situations (he has yet to trail during the second half of a game), guard against overconfidence and improve his ball security (he's taken more risks during the second half of the season), but given how well he grades out on tape, it's no surprise he's the clear-cut front-runner to win the Heisman Trophy.
2. Vernon Hargreaves III, CB, Florida Gators
True freshman | 5-11, 192 pounds
Hargreaves has the potential to quickly develop into the best cornerback in the country. He possesses exceptional man-to-man coverage skills. He has excellent flexibility, which allows him to transition quickly out of breaks without losing balance, and flashes the top-end speed to run with receivers downfield.
But what separates Hargreaves from most young cornerbacks is his savvy. He does a great job of using his hands to disrupt releases, shows above-average anticipation and knows when to play the ball or the man. He can improve his strength, but overall he has excellent upside.
3. Leonard Williams, DL, USC Trojans
Sophomore | 6-5, 290 pounds
You don't see many 290-pounders who can change directions and pursue as quickly as Williams does. He excels at jarring O-linemen with his initial contact, locking out with long arms and then quickly locating the ball before disengaging and attacking the ball-carrier. He makes it all look so easy at times, and his stats reflect his disruptive play: 13.5 tackles for loss and two forced fumbles.
Williams has an impressive motor, frequently chasing down plays from behind. He has a quick first step and does a very good job of converting speed to power in a short area, and doesn't get stuck on blocks for very long, keeping his feet moving and disengaging with his hands. He also shows impressive awareness to locate the ball to snuff out screens and draws.
4. Todd Gurley, RB, Georgia Bulldogs
Sophomore | 6-1, 232 pounds
Gurley missed three games with a high left-ankle sprain, and he's had problems staying healthy all year. So his production has dipped from his true freshman season.
But he's still the most talented back on this list. He is a big, powerful inside runner who is no fun to tackle and can wear out a defense over the course of a game. He also has the speed to go the distance when he gets a seam and flashes the ability to break defenders' ankles in space. He'll drop a pass every once in a while due to a concentration lapse, but he has the ability to snatch the ball out of the air and produce after the catch.
5. Amari Cooper, WR, Alabama Crimson Tide
Sophomore | 6-1, 202 pounds
Cooper got off to a slow start to the 2013 season while dealing with nagging foot and toe injuries. But in the tape we watched of him late in the season, he resembled the dominating player he was during his true freshman campaign in 2012.
Cooper is a savvy route runner and has a strong blend of size, strength and body control. Additionally, he flashes an extra gear to stretch the field vertically, which makes him dangerous on deep patterns and after the catch. He averaged 17.1 yards per catch during the regular season, and had a 99-yard TD catch and run in the Iron Bowl versus Auburn.
6. Dorial Green-Beckham, WR, Missouri Tigers
Sophomore | 6-6, 225 pounds
The light appears to be coming on for Green-Beckham, the former No. 3-ranked overall recruit. He is playing with a much greater sense of urgency in his second season.
He still has room for improvement in terms of setting up defenders with his routes, but he has an elite frame to go along with above-average top-end speed and leaping ability -- three factors that make him a matchup nightmare in one-on-one downfield battles. Additionally, he is a strong runner and flashes an extra gear to exploit a crease and hit the home run after the catch.
Green-Beckham is just beginning to scratch the surface, and given his physical tools, you could make the argument that he has the highest ceiling of anyone on this list.
7. Joey Bosa, DT, Ohio State Buckeyes
True freshman | 6-6, 275 pounds
Bosa is a tall, long and well-proportioned D-lineman who should get stronger and even more coordinated as he grows into his frame. His versatility is unique for a freshman, as the Buckeyes use him at RDE, LDE and DT in four-man fronts and at 5-technique DE in three-man fronts. He plays a lot of snaps and displays a great motor.
Once he gets to the point where he's not having to hesitate to process info, he'll become even more disruptive. But he's already an effective pass-rusher from all spots, giving interior O-linemen fits with his quick first step and violent hands and effectively transferring speed to power and utilizing a good array of moves when rushing off the edge. His initial burst is good but not elite, and his long strides allow him to chew up real estate very quickly.
8. Dante Fowler Jr., DE, Florida Gators
Sophomore | 6-3, 270 pounds
When you watch Fowler on tape, it really looks like he loves playing the game; he plays with an edge and often shows up to the party in a bad mood.
Fowler is an explosive player who has remained fast even as he continues to add bulk. His snap anticipation is good and he explodes off the ball, displaying violent hands, a high-revving motor and impressive closing burst to the QB. He is a powerful hitter, and very effective on twists and stunts. The Gators play him all along the D-line -- LDE, RDE, DT, NT -- and occasionally as a 3-4 outside linebacker.
9. Landon Collins, S, Alabama Crimson Tide
Sophomore | 6-0, 215 pounds
The season-ending knee injury to Vinnie Sunseri and two-game suspension for Ha Ha Clinton-Dix created an opportunity for Collins to get more playing time, and he performed very well for Bama in an expanded role.
The Tennessee tape provides a great example of what he brings to the table. He read the quarterback's eyes, tracked the ball and showed above-average top-end speed on the return of an 89-yard pick-six. Later, he ran down Vols running back Rajion Neal and punched the ball out after Neal ripped off a 40-yard gain early in the third quarter.
Collins hasn't been perfect this season -- he got caught out of position on Auburn QB Nick Marshall's 45-yard TD run in the Tide's Iron Bowl loss -- but he is a strong tackler who squares, wraps and drives through contact.
10. T.J. Yeldon, RB, Alabama Crimson Tide
Sophomore | 6-2, 218 pounds
Yeldon is a smooth downhill runner with above-average vision and the speed to hit seams between the tackles without losing much momentum. He can make defenders miss in the hole, exploit cutback lanes and bounce runs outside after pressing the line of scrimmage thanks to his ability to make crisp jump cuts. He runs hard and has the finishing burst to pick up yards after contact, even though he doesn't have a thick lower body.
He can improve his route running as a pass-catcher out of the backfield, but he's a quick-twitch athlete with the ability to separate and he catches the ball well. He also shows good awareness and aggressiveness in pass protection.
11. Christian Hackenberg, QB, Penn State Nittany Lions
True freshman | 6-4, 220 pounds
Hackenberg has been exceptionally well-coached by Bill O'Brien this season, and he has made noticeable improvement with his decision-making skills and consistency of mechanics throughout the season. He stands tall in the pocket and goes through his progressions quickly (especially for a true freshman), has a relatively compact and very quick delivery, and generates very good velocity on deep outs.
He appears to be more comfortable throwing the ball outside the numbers at this point, and his trajectory and placement on seam routes will need to improve. When he misses, he tends to be high, a result of not fully transferring his weight from back to front. Once he gets better at that, not only will his accuracy improve, but he'll be able to get more speed on his fastball. He also needs to work on speeding up his mental clock, processing post-snap information better and getting the ball out more quickly.
Hackenberg's toughness is really impressive, and he doesn't hang his head after mistakes.
12. A'Shawn Robinson, DT, Alabama Crimson Tide
True freshman | 6-4, 320 pounds
Robinson didn't start for Bama but was on the field for a lot of plays in its D-line rotation. The most impressive aspect of his game is his power -- you don't see many true freshmen with his ability to jack an offensive lineman back on his heels and drive him into the quarterback. He was very disruptive as a pass-rusher.
His awareness improved as the season progressed, and his next step is to improve his disengage skills. But right now he's a strong, gap-occupying run defender and disruptive inside pass-rusher who maintains good leverage and is strong versus the double team.
13. Andrus Peat, OT, Stanford Cardinal
Sophomore | 6-7, 310 pounds
Peat has a couple of weaknesses -- he has a tendency to lunge as a run blocker, and he's an average athlete who can struggle to counter when defenders cross his face at the snap of the ball in pass protection.
But he's still one of the best tackles in the country, and he's proved it this season by the way he performed against a trio of potential first-round picks in UCLA's Anthony Barr, Notre Dame's Stephon Tuitt and Oregon State's Scott Crichton. Peat has gotten stronger at the point of attack and developed into an effective drive blocker. He also has the length to take away the edge, and the balance to sustain once he's locked in on pass protection.
14. Noah Spence, DE, Ohio State Buckeyes
Sophomore | 6-3, 252 pounds
Spence is a versatile piece of the Buckeyes' defense -- he is effective as a pass-rushing LDE and also has adequate range and awareness when asked to drop into underneath coverage, but he's at his best with his hand in the dirt rushing from the right edge. He has good initial burst, closing burst and torso flexibility. He has great awareness to chop at the ball when he gets to the QB as a pass-rusher, and he has an impressive motor.
In order to upgrade his game as both a speed-to-power rusher and a run defender he'll need to improve his lower-body strength. Right now he gives up too much ground as a run defender when forced to play in a phone booth, and lacks ideal change-of-direction skills to recover as a pass rusher.
15. O.J. Howard, TE, Alabama Crimson Tide
True freshman | 6-6, 237 pounds
Howard's inexperience showed up at times this season, he's still developing as a route runner and he needs to add more bulk to his 237-pound frame. But he has a lot of talent.
He has the athleticism and frame to develop into a versatile weapon whose ability to line up wide, in the slot or in-line will make him a very difficult matchup. He has the speed to stretch the field and produce after the catch -- he showed this during his 52-yard touchdown catch against LSU. Moreover, while his size is an issue when it comes to his blocking, effort is not. He doesn't back down and he fights to sustain once locked on to a defender.
16. Laquon Treadwell, WR, Ole Miss Rebels
True freshman | 6-3, 215 pounds
Treadwell still needs polish in terms of his route running and field awareness, but there is no denying his raw talent when you watch him on tape. He's a big, physical receiver who has above-average athleticism, long arms and strong and reliable hands while catching everything away from his frame.
ESPN.com: College Football [Print without images]
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
Top 25 CFB underclassmen
By Todd McShay, Steve Muench and Kevin Weidl
ESPN Insider
Narrowing down the best underclassmen (non-draft-eligible players) in college football into a single top 25 ranking wasn't easy. Not only are there a lot of worthy candidates, but in watching these guys on tape, you could really notice a difference between the true freshmen and the second-year players (redshirt freshmen and true sophomores) -- there was a significant gap in terms of technique, awareness and physicality.
In ordering the top 25, we took the following factors into account:
-- While players in their second seasons who were more polished and consistent were rewarded for it, we tried to also balance out a first-year player's overall talent and potential when comparing the two against each other. This is a ranking of college ability, not pro potential (although there are plenty of guys on this list with the chance to make the NFL one day), but upside still factored into how we ranked players.
-- Injuries had an impact on the rankings, both in terms of durability concerns and the fact that being limited by injury or missing games cut into certain players' productivity.
-- When we were stuck on how to rank one player in comparison to another, we asked ourselves the following question: If you could have two or three more seasons with any of these players at the college level, who would you recruit to play for your team? Each player's potential and durability factored into answering that question.
With those factors in mind, here is our ranking of the top 25 underclassmen in college football for 2013:
1. Jameis Winston, QB, Florida State Seminoles
Redshirt freshman | 6-foot-4, 228 pounds
Winston has uncommon poise for a first-year starting quarterback, which is reflected both in his decision-making and pocket presence. He has shown the ability to compartmentalize his off-the-field issues this season and maintain focus in his preparation and in games.
As a passer, Winston flashes excellent ball placement on difficult intermediate throws and throws a catchable ball. He does a good job of leading receivers and is very accurate when rolling to his right (he isn't as consistent when rolling left), although he does have a tendency to miss within the strike zone on passes over the middle.
Winston has very good velocity on his fastball and can squeeze passes into tight windows, getting good zip on his passes even when defenders are hanging all over him. He has an elongated delivery -- it isn't surprising he's a baseball player -- but his release is still quicker than most QBs who have his windmill style.
Going forward he'll need to prove he can lead his team from behind and deliver in "clutch" situations (he has yet to trail during the second half of a game), guard against overconfidence and improve his ball security (he's taken more risks during the second half of the season), but given how well he grades out on tape, it's no surprise he's the clear-cut front-runner to win the Heisman Trophy.
2. Vernon Hargreaves III, CB, Florida Gators
True freshman | 5-11, 192 pounds
Hargreaves has the potential to quickly develop into the best cornerback in the country. He possesses exceptional man-to-man coverage skills. He has excellent flexibility, which allows him to transition quickly out of breaks without losing balance, and flashes the top-end speed to run with receivers downfield.
But what separates Hargreaves from most young cornerbacks is his savvy. He does a great job of using his hands to disrupt releases, shows above-average anticipation and knows when to play the ball or the man. He can improve his strength, but overall he has excellent upside.
3. Leonard Williams, DL, USC Trojans
Sophomore | 6-5, 290 pounds
You don't see many 290-pounders who can change directions and pursue as quickly as Williams does. He excels at jarring O-linemen with his initial contact, locking out with long arms and then quickly locating the ball before disengaging and attacking the ball-carrier. He makes it all look so easy at times, and his stats reflect his disruptive play: 13.5 tackles for loss and two forced fumbles.
Williams has an impressive motor, frequently chasing down plays from behind. He has a quick first step and does a very good job of converting speed to power in a short area, and doesn't get stuck on blocks for very long, keeping his feet moving and disengaging with his hands. He also shows impressive awareness to locate the ball to snuff out screens and draws.
4. Todd Gurley, RB, Georgia Bulldogs
Sophomore | 6-1, 232 pounds
Gurley missed three games with a high left-ankle sprain, and he's had problems staying healthy all year. So his production has dipped from his true freshman season.
But he's still the most talented back on this list. He is a big, powerful inside runner who is no fun to tackle and can wear out a defense over the course of a game. He also has the speed to go the distance when he gets a seam and flashes the ability to break defenders' ankles in space. He'll drop a pass every once in a while due to a concentration lapse, but he has the ability to snatch the ball out of the air and produce after the catch.
5. Amari Cooper, WR, Alabama Crimson Tide
Sophomore | 6-1, 202 pounds
Cooper got off to a slow start to the 2013 season while dealing with nagging foot and toe injuries. But in the tape we watched of him late in the season, he resembled the dominating player he was during his true freshman campaign in 2012.
Cooper is a savvy route runner and has a strong blend of size, strength and body control. Additionally, he flashes an extra gear to stretch the field vertically, which makes him dangerous on deep patterns and after the catch. He averaged 17.1 yards per catch during the regular season, and had a 99-yard TD catch and run in the Iron Bowl versus Auburn.
6. Dorial Green-Beckham, WR, Missouri Tigers
Sophomore | 6-6, 225 pounds
The light appears to be coming on for Green-Beckham, the former No. 3-ranked overall recruit. He is playing with a much greater sense of urgency in his second season.
He still has room for improvement in terms of setting up defenders with his routes, but he has an elite frame to go along with above-average top-end speed and leaping ability -- three factors that make him a matchup nightmare in one-on-one downfield battles. Additionally, he is a strong runner and flashes an extra gear to exploit a crease and hit the home run after the catch.
Green-Beckham is just beginning to scratch the surface, and given his physical tools, you could make the argument that he has the highest ceiling of anyone on this list.
7. Joey Bosa, DT, Ohio State Buckeyes
True freshman | 6-6, 275 pounds
Bosa is a tall, long and well-proportioned D-lineman who should get stronger and even more coordinated as he grows into his frame. His versatility is unique for a freshman, as the Buckeyes use him at RDE, LDE and DT in four-man fronts and at 5-technique DE in three-man fronts. He plays a lot of snaps and displays a great motor.
Once he gets to the point where he's not having to hesitate to process info, he'll become even more disruptive. But he's already an effective pass-rusher from all spots, giving interior O-linemen fits with his quick first step and violent hands and effectively transferring speed to power and utilizing a good array of moves when rushing off the edge. His initial burst is good but not elite, and his long strides allow him to chew up real estate very quickly.
8. Dante Fowler Jr., DE, Florida Gators
Sophomore | 6-3, 270 pounds
When you watch Fowler on tape, it really looks like he loves playing the game; he plays with an edge and often shows up to the party in a bad mood.
Fowler is an explosive player who has remained fast even as he continues to add bulk. His snap anticipation is good and he explodes off the ball, displaying violent hands, a high-revving motor and impressive closing burst to the QB. He is a powerful hitter, and very effective on twists and stunts. The Gators play him all along the D-line -- LDE, RDE, DT, NT -- and occasionally as a 3-4 outside linebacker.
9. Landon Collins, S, Alabama Crimson Tide
Sophomore | 6-0, 215 pounds
The season-ending knee injury to Vinnie Sunseri and two-game suspension for Ha Ha Clinton-Dix created an opportunity for Collins to get more playing time, and he performed very well for Bama in an expanded role.
The Tennessee tape provides a great example of what he brings to the table. He read the quarterback's eyes, tracked the ball and showed above-average top-end speed on the return of an 89-yard pick-six. Later, he ran down Vols running back Rajion Neal and punched the ball out after Neal ripped off a 40-yard gain early in the third quarter.
Collins hasn't been perfect this season -- he got caught out of position on Auburn QB Nick Marshall's 45-yard TD run in the Tide's Iron Bowl loss -- but he is a strong tackler who squares, wraps and drives through contact.
10. T.J. Yeldon, RB, Alabama Crimson Tide
Sophomore | 6-2, 218 pounds
Yeldon is a smooth downhill runner with above-average vision and the speed to hit seams between the tackles without losing much momentum. He can make defenders miss in the hole, exploit cutback lanes and bounce runs outside after pressing the line of scrimmage thanks to his ability to make crisp jump cuts. He runs hard and has the finishing burst to pick up yards after contact, even though he doesn't have a thick lower body.
He can improve his route running as a pass-catcher out of the backfield, but he's a quick-twitch athlete with the ability to separate and he catches the ball well. He also shows good awareness and aggressiveness in pass protection.
11. Christian Hackenberg, QB, Penn State Nittany Lions
True freshman | 6-4, 220 pounds
Hackenberg has been exceptionally well-coached by Bill O'Brien this season, and he has made noticeable improvement with his decision-making skills and consistency of mechanics throughout the season. He stands tall in the pocket and goes through his progressions quickly (especially for a true freshman), has a relatively compact and very quick delivery, and generates very good velocity on deep outs.
He appears to be more comfortable throwing the ball outside the numbers at this point, and his trajectory and placement on seam routes will need to improve. When he misses, he tends to be high, a result of not fully transferring his weight from back to front. Once he gets better at that, not only will his accuracy improve, but he'll be able to get more speed on his fastball. He also needs to work on speeding up his mental clock, processing post-snap information better and getting the ball out more quickly.
Hackenberg's toughness is really impressive, and he doesn't hang his head after mistakes.
12. A'Shawn Robinson, DT, Alabama Crimson Tide
True freshman | 6-4, 320 pounds
Robinson didn't start for Bama but was on the field for a lot of plays in its D-line rotation. The most impressive aspect of his game is his power -- you don't see many true freshmen with his ability to jack an offensive lineman back on his heels and drive him into the quarterback. He was very disruptive as a pass-rusher.
His awareness improved as the season progressed, and his next step is to improve his disengage skills. But right now he's a strong, gap-occupying run defender and disruptive inside pass-rusher who maintains good leverage and is strong versus the double team.
13. Andrus Peat, OT, Stanford Cardinal
Sophomore | 6-7, 310 pounds
Peat has a couple of weaknesses -- he has a tendency to lunge as a run blocker, and he's an average athlete who can struggle to counter when defenders cross his face at the snap of the ball in pass protection.
But he's still one of the best tackles in the country, and he's proved it this season by the way he performed against a trio of potential first-round picks in UCLA's Anthony Barr, Notre Dame's Stephon Tuitt and Oregon State's Scott Crichton. Peat has gotten stronger at the point of attack and developed into an effective drive blocker. He also has the length to take away the edge, and the balance to sustain once he's locked in on pass protection.
14. Noah Spence, DE, Ohio State Buckeyes
Sophomore | 6-3, 252 pounds
Spence is a versatile piece of the Buckeyes' defense -- he is effective as a pass-rushing LDE and also has adequate range and awareness when asked to drop into underneath coverage, but he's at his best with his hand in the dirt rushing from the right edge. He has good initial burst, closing burst and torso flexibility. He has great awareness to chop at the ball when he gets to the QB as a pass-rusher, and he has an impressive motor.
In order to upgrade his game as both a speed-to-power rusher and a run defender he'll need to improve his lower-body strength. Right now he gives up too much ground as a run defender when forced to play in a phone booth, and lacks ideal change-of-direction skills to recover as a pass rusher.
15. O.J. Howard, TE, Alabama Crimson Tide
True freshman | 6-6, 237 pounds
Howard's inexperience showed up at times this season, he's still developing as a route runner and he needs to add more bulk to his 237-pound frame. But he has a lot of talent.
He has the athleticism and frame to develop into a versatile weapon whose ability to line up wide, in the slot or in-line will make him a very difficult matchup. He has the speed to stretch the field and produce after the catch -- he showed this during his 52-yard touchdown catch against LSU. Moreover, while his size is an issue when it comes to his blocking, effort is not. He doesn't back down and he fights to sustain once locked on to a defender.
16. Laquon Treadwell, WR, Ole Miss Rebels
True freshman | 6-3, 215 pounds
Treadwell still needs polish in terms of his route running and field awareness, but there is no denying his raw talent when you watch him on tape. He's a big, physical receiver who has above-average athleticism, long arms and strong and reliable hands while catching everything away from his frame.
Treadwell isn't a burner, but he is a strong, shifty and determined runner who can create yards after the catch. He caught 67 passes during the regular season, including five touchdowns.
17. Devin Funchess, TE, Michigan Wolverines
Sophomore | 6-5, 228 pounds
Funchess displayed inconsistent hands this season, and his drops are a cause for concern, because he isn't going to move many defenders off the ball as a blocker.
That said, he has also shown the ability to snatch the ball out of the air (he had 47 receptions in the regular season), so it's really inconsistency that has been his issue. Additionally, he has the speed to stretch the field, the athletic ability to produce after the catch and the body control to compete for jump balls.
18. Robert Nkemdiche, DL, Ole Miss Rebels
True freshman | 6-5, 294 pounds
It's obvious that Nkemdiche has very good natural ability, although he wasn't as explosive or polished this season as you'd expect from a guy who was practically a consensus No. 1 recruit in the 2013 class.
He is still learning the game (he gets his back turned to the line of scrimmage at times, and can be late locating the ball), but that's to be expected from a true freshman. He needs to improve his upper-body strength, get more explosive with his initial punch and more violent with his hands to disengage with blockers. He also lacks ideal change-of-direction skills, so he'll need to learn to rush the QB under more control.
Now for the good news: He is tall, long and well-built, and carries his weight extremely well. He has very good mobility for his size, including a quick first step and good closing burst, and very quick hands.
19. Myles Jack, OLB/RB, UCLA Bruins
True freshman | 6-1, 225 pounds
Jack is a tremendous overall athlete and one of the rare two-way players at the collegiate level. He is most natural as a weakside linebacker who has sideline-to-sideline range and flashes playmaking ability in coverage. While he lacks elite take-on skills, he maneuvers through traffic well and is a reliable tackler who flashes and explosive strike.
On offense, Jack can improve his ball security, but he's a no-nonsense runner who shows excellent power and leg drive and flashes above-average top-end speed. He didn't get any time at running back until the last four games of the season, yet he still piled up 267 yards and seven touchdowns (7.2 yards per carry).
20. Mike Davis, RB, South Carolina Gamecocks
Sophomore | 5-9, 215 pounds
Davis has been slowed by an ankle injury this season, but he has still been very productive, running for 1,134 yards and 11 touchdowns (5.8 yards per carry). He is a determined runner who runs behind his pads and almost always falls forward at the end of runs. He reads his blocks well, and at just 5-9 he hides behind his offensive linemen when he runs inside.
He doesn't have the speed of a true home-run threat, but he has good initial burst. In the passing game he catches the ball well, can make defenders miss after the catch and is an adequate pass blocker.
21. Laremy Tunsil, OT, Ole Miss Rebels
True freshman | 6-5, 332 pounds
Tunsil isn't the mauler you'd expect from a guy with his frame and measurements. He doesn't have ideal strength and needs to play with more of an edge -- Missouri defensive end Kony Ealy's power and physicality gave him problems in the Tigers' win over the Rebels.
On the other hand, Tunsil is an above-average athlete for his size, which is why at some point he could surpass Peat as the superior offensive tackle. He gets set quickly, has the length to protect the edge and flashes the ability to mirror in pass protection. Once he gets stronger, he should be able to move defenders off the ball, because he has the first-step quickness to get into position as a run blocker.
22. Kendall Fuller, CB, Virginia Tech Hokies
True freshman | 5-11, 193 pounds
Kendall is the fourth Fuller to come through the Virginia Tech program, and he may be the most talented of the bunch. He is a balanced mover who transitions well out of breaks and shows adequate but not upper-echelon top-end speed.
Where Fuller excels is with his eyes and instincts in coverage. He displays sound technique to maintain proper leverage and flashes the anticipation skills to get an early break on the ball. Additionally, he does a great job of locating the ball and shows the body control and hands to finish the play.
23. Carl Lawson, DE, Auburn Tigers
True freshman | 6-2, 258 pounds
Lawson is still a bit raw in terms of instincts and awareness, but he is an explosive athlete who possesses natural playing strength and power. He is an excellent edge defender against the run who plays with quality leverage and flashes heavy hands.
He also flashes a lot of upside as a pass rusher with explosive power, adequate flexibility, active hands and a quick closing burst. He has a chance to develop into an impact edge rusher if he can develop a wider array of moves to his arsenal.
24. Nelson Agholor, WR, USC Trojans
Sophomore | 6-0, 185 pounds
Agholor is a smooth route runner who displays a quick burst out of cuts to create separation from defenders. While he shows above-average body control and ball skills, he can continue to add bulk and get stronger in contested situations.
Where Agholor really excels is with the ball in his hand. He possesses excellent vision, elusiveness and flashes an extra gear to manufacture big plays not just in the passing game but also as a returner on special teams. He averaged 16.2 yards per reception this season and had six total TDs (four receiving, two on punt returns).
25. Stefon Diggs, WR, Maryland Terrapins
Sophomore | 6-0, 195 pounds
Diggs missed the final five games of the season with a broken right fibula, which hurt his positioning in this ranking. But when healthy, he is one of the most versatile players on this list.
He has a natural feel for routes and does a great job of using tempo to set up defenders. He will occasionally allow a ball to get into his frame, but he also flashes the ability to make the acrobatic catch. While he's quicker than fast, Diggs shows excellent instincts and elusiveness to create as a runner both after the catch and as a returner on special teams.
Honorable mentions
RB: Alex Collins, Fr., Arkansas; Kenyan Drake, Soph., Alabama; Byron Marshall, Soph., Oregon
WR: Bralon Addison, Soph., Oregon; Marquez North, Fr., Tennessee
OL: Max Tuerk, Soph., USC
DL: DeForest Buckner, Oregon; Jordan Jenkins, Soph., Georgia
LB: Ejiro Ederaine, Soph., Fresno State; Tyriq McCord, Soph., Miami;
CB: Nate Andrews, Fr., Florida State; Brandon Facyson, Fr., Virginia Tech; P.J. Williams, Soph., Florida State
S: Alex Carter, Soph., Stanford; Su'a Cravens, Fr., USC; Shaq Thompson, Soph., Washington;
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
Top 25 CFB underclassmen
By Todd McShay, Steve Muench and Kevin Weidl
ESPN Insider
Narrowing down the best underclassmen (non-draft-eligible players) in college football into a single top 25 ranking wasn't easy. Not only are there a lot of worthy candidates, but in watching these guys on tape, you could really notice a difference between the true freshmen and the second-year players (redshirt freshmen and true sophomores) -- there was a significant gap in terms of technique, awareness and physicality.
In ordering the top 25, we took the following factors into account:
-- While players in their second seasons who were more polished and consistent were rewarded for it, we tried to also balance out a first-year player's overall talent and potential when comparing the two against each other. This is a ranking of college ability, not pro potential (although there are plenty of guys on this list with the chance to make the NFL one day), but upside still factored into how we ranked players.
-- Injuries had an impact on the rankings, both in terms of durability concerns and the fact that being limited by injury or missing games cut into certain players' productivity.
-- When we were stuck on how to rank one player in comparison to another, we asked ourselves the following question: If you could have two or three more seasons with any of these players at the college level, who would you recruit to play for your team? Each player's potential and durability factored into answering that question.
With those factors in mind, here is our ranking of the top 25 underclassmen in college football for 2013:
1. Jameis Winston, QB, Florida State Seminoles
Redshirt freshman | 6-foot-4, 228 pounds
Winston has uncommon poise for a first-year starting quarterback, which is reflected both in his decision-making and pocket presence. He has shown the ability to compartmentalize his off-the-field issues this season and maintain focus in his preparation and in games.
As a passer, Winston flashes excellent ball placement on difficult intermediate throws and throws a catchable ball. He does a good job of leading receivers and is very accurate when rolling to his right (he isn't as consistent when rolling left), although he does have a tendency to miss within the strike zone on passes over the middle.
Winston has very good velocity on his fastball and can squeeze passes into tight windows, getting good zip on his passes even when defenders are hanging all over him. He has an elongated delivery -- it isn't surprising he's a baseball player -- but his release is still quicker than most QBs who have his windmill style.
Going forward he'll need to prove he can lead his team from behind and deliver in "clutch" situations (he has yet to trail during the second half of a game), guard against overconfidence and improve his ball security (he's taken more risks during the second half of the season), but given how well he grades out on tape, it's no surprise he's the clear-cut front-runner to win the Heisman Trophy.
2. Vernon Hargreaves III, CB, Florida Gators
True freshman | 5-11, 192 pounds
Hargreaves has the potential to quickly develop into the best cornerback in the country. He possesses exceptional man-to-man coverage skills. He has excellent flexibility, which allows him to transition quickly out of breaks without losing balance, and flashes the top-end speed to run with receivers downfield.
But what separates Hargreaves from most young cornerbacks is his savvy. He does a great job of using his hands to disrupt releases, shows above-average anticipation and knows when to play the ball or the man. He can improve his strength, but overall he has excellent upside.
3. Leonard Williams, DL, USC Trojans
Sophomore | 6-5, 290 pounds
You don't see many 290-pounders who can change directions and pursue as quickly as Williams does. He excels at jarring O-linemen with his initial contact, locking out with long arms and then quickly locating the ball before disengaging and attacking the ball-carrier. He makes it all look so easy at times, and his stats reflect his disruptive play: 13.5 tackles for loss and two forced fumbles.
Williams has an impressive motor, frequently chasing down plays from behind. He has a quick first step and does a very good job of converting speed to power in a short area, and doesn't get stuck on blocks for very long, keeping his feet moving and disengaging with his hands. He also shows impressive awareness to locate the ball to snuff out screens and draws.
4. Todd Gurley, RB, Georgia Bulldogs
Sophomore | 6-1, 232 pounds
Gurley missed three games with a high left-ankle sprain, and he's had problems staying healthy all year. So his production has dipped from his true freshman season.
But he's still the most talented back on this list. He is a big, powerful inside runner who is no fun to tackle and can wear out a defense over the course of a game. He also has the speed to go the distance when he gets a seam and flashes the ability to break defenders' ankles in space. He'll drop a pass every once in a while due to a concentration lapse, but he has the ability to snatch the ball out of the air and produce after the catch.
5. Amari Cooper, WR, Alabama Crimson Tide
Sophomore | 6-1, 202 pounds
Cooper got off to a slow start to the 2013 season while dealing with nagging foot and toe injuries. But in the tape we watched of him late in the season, he resembled the dominating player he was during his true freshman campaign in 2012.
Cooper is a savvy route runner and has a strong blend of size, strength and body control. Additionally, he flashes an extra gear to stretch the field vertically, which makes him dangerous on deep patterns and after the catch. He averaged 17.1 yards per catch during the regular season, and had a 99-yard TD catch and run in the Iron Bowl versus Auburn.
6. Dorial Green-Beckham, WR, Missouri Tigers
Sophomore | 6-6, 225 pounds
The light appears to be coming on for Green-Beckham, the former No. 3-ranked overall recruit. He is playing with a much greater sense of urgency in his second season.
He still has room for improvement in terms of setting up defenders with his routes, but he has an elite frame to go along with above-average top-end speed and leaping ability -- three factors that make him a matchup nightmare in one-on-one downfield battles. Additionally, he is a strong runner and flashes an extra gear to exploit a crease and hit the home run after the catch.
Green-Beckham is just beginning to scratch the surface, and given his physical tools, you could make the argument that he has the highest ceiling of anyone on this list.
7. Joey Bosa, DT, Ohio State Buckeyes
True freshman | 6-6, 275 pounds
Bosa is a tall, long and well-proportioned D-lineman who should get stronger and even more coordinated as he grows into his frame. His versatility is unique for a freshman, as the Buckeyes use him at RDE, LDE and DT in four-man fronts and at 5-technique DE in three-man fronts. He plays a lot of snaps and displays a great motor.
Once he gets to the point where he's not having to hesitate to process info, he'll become even more disruptive. But he's already an effective pass-rusher from all spots, giving interior O-linemen fits with his quick first step and violent hands and effectively transferring speed to power and utilizing a good array of moves when rushing off the edge. His initial burst is good but not elite, and his long strides allow him to chew up real estate very quickly.
8. Dante Fowler Jr., DE, Florida Gators
Sophomore | 6-3, 270 pounds
When you watch Fowler on tape, it really looks like he loves playing the game; he plays with an edge and often shows up to the party in a bad mood.
Fowler is an explosive player who has remained fast even as he continues to add bulk. His snap anticipation is good and he explodes off the ball, displaying violent hands, a high-revving motor and impressive closing burst to the QB. He is a powerful hitter, and very effective on twists and stunts. The Gators play him all along the D-line -- LDE, RDE, DT, NT -- and occasionally as a 3-4 outside linebacker.
9. Landon Collins, S, Alabama Crimson Tide
Sophomore | 6-0, 215 pounds
The season-ending knee injury to Vinnie Sunseri and two-game suspension for Ha Ha Clinton-Dix created an opportunity for Collins to get more playing time, and he performed very well for Bama in an expanded role.
The Tennessee tape provides a great example of what he brings to the table. He read the quarterback's eyes, tracked the ball and showed above-average top-end speed on the return of an 89-yard pick-six. Later, he ran down Vols running back Rajion Neal and punched the ball out after Neal ripped off a 40-yard gain early in the third quarter.
Collins hasn't been perfect this season -- he got caught out of position on Auburn QB Nick Marshall's 45-yard TD run in the Tide's Iron Bowl loss -- but he is a strong tackler who squares, wraps and drives through contact.
10. T.J. Yeldon, RB, Alabama Crimson Tide
Sophomore | 6-2, 218 pounds
Yeldon is a smooth downhill runner with above-average vision and the speed to hit seams between the tackles without losing much momentum. He can make defenders miss in the hole, exploit cutback lanes and bounce runs outside after pressing the line of scrimmage thanks to his ability to make crisp jump cuts. He runs hard and has the finishing burst to pick up yards after contact, even though he doesn't have a thick lower body.
He can improve his route running as a pass-catcher out of the backfield, but he's a quick-twitch athlete with the ability to separate and he catches the ball well. He also shows good awareness and aggressiveness in pass protection.
11. Christian Hackenberg, QB, Penn State Nittany Lions
True freshman | 6-4, 220 pounds
Hackenberg has been exceptionally well-coached by Bill O'Brien this season, and he has made noticeable improvement with his decision-making skills and consistency of mechanics throughout the season. He stands tall in the pocket and goes through his progressions quickly (especially for a true freshman), has a relatively compact and very quick delivery, and generates very good velocity on deep outs.
He appears to be more comfortable throwing the ball outside the numbers at this point, and his trajectory and placement on seam routes will need to improve. When he misses, he tends to be high, a result of not fully transferring his weight from back to front. Once he gets better at that, not only will his accuracy improve, but he'll be able to get more speed on his fastball. He also needs to work on speeding up his mental clock, processing post-snap information better and getting the ball out more quickly.
Hackenberg's toughness is really impressive, and he doesn't hang his head after mistakes.
12. A'Shawn Robinson, DT, Alabama Crimson Tide
True freshman | 6-4, 320 pounds
Robinson didn't start for Bama but was on the field for a lot of plays in its D-line rotation. The most impressive aspect of his game is his power -- you don't see many true freshmen with his ability to jack an offensive lineman back on his heels and drive him into the quarterback. He was very disruptive as a pass-rusher.
His awareness improved as the season progressed, and his next step is to improve his disengage skills. But right now he's a strong, gap-occupying run defender and disruptive inside pass-rusher who maintains good leverage and is strong versus the double team.
13. Andrus Peat, OT, Stanford Cardinal
Sophomore | 6-7, 310 pounds
Peat has a couple of weaknesses -- he has a tendency to lunge as a run blocker, and he's an average athlete who can struggle to counter when defenders cross his face at the snap of the ball in pass protection.
But he's still one of the best tackles in the country, and he's proved it this season by the way he performed against a trio of potential first-round picks in UCLA's Anthony Barr, Notre Dame's Stephon Tuitt and Oregon State's Scott Crichton. Peat has gotten stronger at the point of attack and developed into an effective drive blocker. He also has the length to take away the edge, and the balance to sustain once he's locked in on pass protection.
14. Noah Spence, DE, Ohio State Buckeyes
Sophomore | 6-3, 252 pounds
Spence is a versatile piece of the Buckeyes' defense -- he is effective as a pass-rushing LDE and also has adequate range and awareness when asked to drop into underneath coverage, but he's at his best with his hand in the dirt rushing from the right edge. He has good initial burst, closing burst and torso flexibility. He has great awareness to chop at the ball when he gets to the QB as a pass-rusher, and he has an impressive motor.
In order to upgrade his game as both a speed-to-power rusher and a run defender he'll need to improve his lower-body strength. Right now he gives up too much ground as a run defender when forced to play in a phone booth, and lacks ideal change-of-direction skills to recover as a pass rusher.
15. O.J. Howard, TE, Alabama Crimson Tide
True freshman | 6-6, 237 pounds
Howard's inexperience showed up at times this season, he's still developing as a route runner and he needs to add more bulk to his 237-pound frame. But he has a lot of talent.
He has the athleticism and frame to develop into a versatile weapon whose ability to line up wide, in the slot or in-line will make him a very difficult matchup. He has the speed to stretch the field and produce after the catch -- he showed this during his 52-yard touchdown catch against LSU. Moreover, while his size is an issue when it comes to his blocking, effort is not. He doesn't back down and he fights to sustain once locked on to a defender.
16. Laquon Treadwell, WR, Ole Miss Rebels
True freshman | 6-3, 215 pounds
Treadwell still needs polish in terms of his route running and field awareness, but there is no denying his raw talent when you watch him on tape. He's a big, physical receiver who has above-average athleticism, long arms and strong and reliable hands while catching everything away from his frame.
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Wednesday, December 11, 2013
Top 25 CFB underclassmen
By Todd McShay, Steve Muench and Kevin Weidl
ESPN Insider
Narrowing down the best underclassmen (non-draft-eligible players) in college football into a single top 25 ranking wasn't easy. Not only are there a lot of worthy candidates, but in watching these guys on tape, you could really notice a difference between the true freshmen and the second-year players (redshirt freshmen and true sophomores) -- there was a significant gap in terms of technique, awareness and physicality.
In ordering the top 25, we took the following factors into account:
-- While players in their second seasons who were more polished and consistent were rewarded for it, we tried to also balance out a first-year player's overall talent and potential when comparing the two against each other. This is a ranking of college ability, not pro potential (although there are plenty of guys on this list with the chance to make the NFL one day), but upside still factored into how we ranked players.
-- Injuries had an impact on the rankings, both in terms of durability concerns and the fact that being limited by injury or missing games cut into certain players' productivity.
-- When we were stuck on how to rank one player in comparison to another, we asked ourselves the following question: If you could have two or three more seasons with any of these players at the college level, who would you recruit to play for your team? Each player's potential and durability factored into answering that question.
With those factors in mind, here is our ranking of the top 25 underclassmen in college football for 2013:
1. Jameis Winston, QB, Florida State Seminoles
Redshirt freshman | 6-foot-4, 228 pounds
Winston has uncommon poise for a first-year starting quarterback, which is reflected both in his decision-making and pocket presence. He has shown the ability to compartmentalize his off-the-field issues this season and maintain focus in his preparation and in games.
As a passer, Winston flashes excellent ball placement on difficult intermediate throws and throws a catchable ball. He does a good job of leading receivers and is very accurate when rolling to his right (he isn't as consistent when rolling left), although he does have a tendency to miss within the strike zone on passes over the middle.
Winston has very good velocity on his fastball and can squeeze passes into tight windows, getting good zip on his passes even when defenders are hanging all over him. He has an elongated delivery -- it isn't surprising he's a baseball player -- but his release is still quicker than most QBs who have his windmill style.
Going forward he'll need to prove he can lead his team from behind and deliver in "clutch" situations (he has yet to trail during the second half of a game), guard against overconfidence and improve his ball security (he's taken more risks during the second half of the season), but given how well he grades out on tape, it's no surprise he's the clear-cut front-runner to win the Heisman Trophy.
2. Vernon Hargreaves III, CB, Florida Gators
True freshman | 5-11, 192 pounds
Hargreaves has the potential to quickly develop into the best cornerback in the country. He possesses exceptional man-to-man coverage skills. He has excellent flexibility, which allows him to transition quickly out of breaks without losing balance, and flashes the top-end speed to run with receivers downfield.
But what separates Hargreaves from most young cornerbacks is his savvy. He does a great job of using his hands to disrupt releases, shows above-average anticipation and knows when to play the ball or the man. He can improve his strength, but overall he has excellent upside.
3. Leonard Williams, DL, USC Trojans
Sophomore | 6-5, 290 pounds
You don't see many 290-pounders who can change directions and pursue as quickly as Williams does. He excels at jarring O-linemen with his initial contact, locking out with long arms and then quickly locating the ball before disengaging and attacking the ball-carrier. He makes it all look so easy at times, and his stats reflect his disruptive play: 13.5 tackles for loss and two forced fumbles.
Williams has an impressive motor, frequently chasing down plays from behind. He has a quick first step and does a very good job of converting speed to power in a short area, and doesn't get stuck on blocks for very long, keeping his feet moving and disengaging with his hands. He also shows impressive awareness to locate the ball to snuff out screens and draws.
4. Todd Gurley, RB, Georgia Bulldogs
Sophomore | 6-1, 232 pounds
Gurley missed three games with a high left-ankle sprain, and he's had problems staying healthy all year. So his production has dipped from his true freshman season.
But he's still the most talented back on this list. He is a big, powerful inside runner who is no fun to tackle and can wear out a defense over the course of a game. He also has the speed to go the distance when he gets a seam and flashes the ability to break defenders' ankles in space. He'll drop a pass every once in a while due to a concentration lapse, but he has the ability to snatch the ball out of the air and produce after the catch.
5. Amari Cooper, WR, Alabama Crimson Tide
Sophomore | 6-1, 202 pounds
Cooper got off to a slow start to the 2013 season while dealing with nagging foot and toe injuries. But in the tape we watched of him late in the season, he resembled the dominating player he was during his true freshman campaign in 2012.
Cooper is a savvy route runner and has a strong blend of size, strength and body control. Additionally, he flashes an extra gear to stretch the field vertically, which makes him dangerous on deep patterns and after the catch. He averaged 17.1 yards per catch during the regular season, and had a 99-yard TD catch and run in the Iron Bowl versus Auburn.
6. Dorial Green-Beckham, WR, Missouri Tigers
Sophomore | 6-6, 225 pounds
The light appears to be coming on for Green-Beckham, the former No. 3-ranked overall recruit. He is playing with a much greater sense of urgency in his second season.
He still has room for improvement in terms of setting up defenders with his routes, but he has an elite frame to go along with above-average top-end speed and leaping ability -- three factors that make him a matchup nightmare in one-on-one downfield battles. Additionally, he is a strong runner and flashes an extra gear to exploit a crease and hit the home run after the catch.
Green-Beckham is just beginning to scratch the surface, and given his physical tools, you could make the argument that he has the highest ceiling of anyone on this list.
7. Joey Bosa, DT, Ohio State Buckeyes
True freshman | 6-6, 275 pounds
Bosa is a tall, long and well-proportioned D-lineman who should get stronger and even more coordinated as he grows into his frame. His versatility is unique for a freshman, as the Buckeyes use him at RDE, LDE and DT in four-man fronts and at 5-technique DE in three-man fronts. He plays a lot of snaps and displays a great motor.
Once he gets to the point where he's not having to hesitate to process info, he'll become even more disruptive. But he's already an effective pass-rusher from all spots, giving interior O-linemen fits with his quick first step and violent hands and effectively transferring speed to power and utilizing a good array of moves when rushing off the edge. His initial burst is good but not elite, and his long strides allow him to chew up real estate very quickly.
8. Dante Fowler Jr., DE, Florida Gators
Sophomore | 6-3, 270 pounds
When you watch Fowler on tape, it really looks like he loves playing the game; he plays with an edge and often shows up to the party in a bad mood.
Fowler is an explosive player who has remained fast even as he continues to add bulk. His snap anticipation is good and he explodes off the ball, displaying violent hands, a high-revving motor and impressive closing burst to the QB. He is a powerful hitter, and very effective on twists and stunts. The Gators play him all along the D-line -- LDE, RDE, DT, NT -- and occasionally as a 3-4 outside linebacker.
9. Landon Collins, S, Alabama Crimson Tide
Sophomore | 6-0, 215 pounds
The season-ending knee injury to Vinnie Sunseri and two-game suspension for Ha Ha Clinton-Dix created an opportunity for Collins to get more playing time, and he performed very well for Bama in an expanded role.
The Tennessee tape provides a great example of what he brings to the table. He read the quarterback's eyes, tracked the ball and showed above-average top-end speed on the return of an 89-yard pick-six. Later, he ran down Vols running back Rajion Neal and punched the ball out after Neal ripped off a 40-yard gain early in the third quarter.
Collins hasn't been perfect this season -- he got caught out of position on Auburn QB Nick Marshall's 45-yard TD run in the Tide's Iron Bowl loss -- but he is a strong tackler who squares, wraps and drives through contact.
10. T.J. Yeldon, RB, Alabama Crimson Tide
Sophomore | 6-2, 218 pounds
Yeldon is a smooth downhill runner with above-average vision and the speed to hit seams between the tackles without losing much momentum. He can make defenders miss in the hole, exploit cutback lanes and bounce runs outside after pressing the line of scrimmage thanks to his ability to make crisp jump cuts. He runs hard and has the finishing burst to pick up yards after contact, even though he doesn't have a thick lower body.
He can improve his route running as a pass-catcher out of the backfield, but he's a quick-twitch athlete with the ability to separate and he catches the ball well. He also shows good awareness and aggressiveness in pass protection.
11. Christian Hackenberg, QB, Penn State Nittany Lions
True freshman | 6-4, 220 pounds
Hackenberg has been exceptionally well-coached by Bill O'Brien this season, and he has made noticeable improvement with his decision-making skills and consistency of mechanics throughout the season. He stands tall in the pocket and goes through his progressions quickly (especially for a true freshman), has a relatively compact and very quick delivery, and generates very good velocity on deep outs.
He appears to be more comfortable throwing the ball outside the numbers at this point, and his trajectory and placement on seam routes will need to improve. When he misses, he tends to be high, a result of not fully transferring his weight from back to front. Once he gets better at that, not only will his accuracy improve, but he'll be able to get more speed on his fastball. He also needs to work on speeding up his mental clock, processing post-snap information better and getting the ball out more quickly.
Hackenberg's toughness is really impressive, and he doesn't hang his head after mistakes.
12. A'Shawn Robinson, DT, Alabama Crimson Tide
True freshman | 6-4, 320 pounds
Robinson didn't start for Bama but was on the field for a lot of plays in its D-line rotation. The most impressive aspect of his game is his power -- you don't see many true freshmen with his ability to jack an offensive lineman back on his heels and drive him into the quarterback. He was very disruptive as a pass-rusher.
His awareness improved as the season progressed, and his next step is to improve his disengage skills. But right now he's a strong, gap-occupying run defender and disruptive inside pass-rusher who maintains good leverage and is strong versus the double team.
13. Andrus Peat, OT, Stanford Cardinal
Sophomore | 6-7, 310 pounds
Peat has a couple of weaknesses -- he has a tendency to lunge as a run blocker, and he's an average athlete who can struggle to counter when defenders cross his face at the snap of the ball in pass protection.
But he's still one of the best tackles in the country, and he's proved it this season by the way he performed against a trio of potential first-round picks in UCLA's Anthony Barr, Notre Dame's Stephon Tuitt and Oregon State's Scott Crichton. Peat has gotten stronger at the point of attack and developed into an effective drive blocker. He also has the length to take away the edge, and the balance to sustain once he's locked in on pass protection.
14. Noah Spence, DE, Ohio State Buckeyes
Sophomore | 6-3, 252 pounds
Spence is a versatile piece of the Buckeyes' defense -- he is effective as a pass-rushing LDE and also has adequate range and awareness when asked to drop into underneath coverage, but he's at his best with his hand in the dirt rushing from the right edge. He has good initial burst, closing burst and torso flexibility. He has great awareness to chop at the ball when he gets to the QB as a pass-rusher, and he has an impressive motor.
In order to upgrade his game as both a speed-to-power rusher and a run defender he'll need to improve his lower-body strength. Right now he gives up too much ground as a run defender when forced to play in a phone booth, and lacks ideal change-of-direction skills to recover as a pass rusher.
15. O.J. Howard, TE, Alabama Crimson Tide
True freshman | 6-6, 237 pounds
Howard's inexperience showed up at times this season, he's still developing as a route runner and he needs to add more bulk to his 237-pound frame. But he has a lot of talent.
He has the athleticism and frame to develop into a versatile weapon whose ability to line up wide, in the slot or in-line will make him a very difficult matchup. He has the speed to stretch the field and produce after the catch -- he showed this during his 52-yard touchdown catch against LSU. Moreover, while his size is an issue when it comes to his blocking, effort is not. He doesn't back down and he fights to sustain once locked on to a defender.
16. Laquon Treadwell, WR, Ole Miss Rebels
True freshman | 6-3, 215 pounds
Treadwell still needs polish in terms of his route running and field awareness, but there is no denying his raw talent when you watch him on tape. He's a big, physical receiver who has above-average athleticism, long arms and strong and reliable hands while catching everything away from his frame.
Treadwell isn't a burner, but he is a strong, shifty and determined runner who can create yards after the catch. He caught 67 passes during the regular season, including five touchdowns.
17. Devin Funchess, TE, Michigan Wolverines
Sophomore | 6-5, 228 pounds
Funchess displayed inconsistent hands this season, and his drops are a cause for concern, because he isn't going to move many defenders off the ball as a blocker.
That said, he has also shown the ability to snatch the ball out of the air (he had 47 receptions in the regular season), so it's really inconsistency that has been his issue. Additionally, he has the speed to stretch the field, the athletic ability to produce after the catch and the body control to compete for jump balls.
18. Robert Nkemdiche, DL, Ole Miss Rebels
True freshman | 6-5, 294 pounds
It's obvious that Nkemdiche has very good natural ability, although he wasn't as explosive or polished this season as you'd expect from a guy who was practically a consensus No. 1 recruit in the 2013 class.
He is still learning the game (he gets his back turned to the line of scrimmage at times, and can be late locating the ball), but that's to be expected from a true freshman. He needs to improve his upper-body strength, get more explosive with his initial punch and more violent with his hands to disengage with blockers. He also lacks ideal change-of-direction skills, so he'll need to learn to rush the QB under more control.
Now for the good news: He is tall, long and well-built, and carries his weight extremely well. He has very good mobility for his size, including a quick first step and good closing burst, and very quick hands.
19. Myles Jack, OLB/RB, UCLA Bruins
True freshman | 6-1, 225 pounds
Jack is a tremendous overall athlete and one of the rare two-way players at the collegiate level. He is most natural as a weakside linebacker who has sideline-to-sideline range and flashes playmaking ability in coverage. While he lacks elite take-on skills, he maneuvers through traffic well and is a reliable tackler who flashes and explosive strike.
On offense, Jack can improve his ball security, but he's a no-nonsense runner who shows excellent power and leg drive and flashes above-average top-end speed. He didn't get any time at running back until the last four games of the season, yet he still piled up 267 yards and seven touchdowns (7.2 yards per carry).
20. Mike Davis, RB, South Carolina Gamecocks
Sophomore | 5-9, 215 pounds
Davis has been slowed by an ankle injury this season, but he has still been very productive, running for 1,134 yards and 11 touchdowns (5.8 yards per carry). He is a determined runner who runs behind his pads and almost always falls forward at the end of runs. He reads his blocks well, and at just 5-9 he hides behind his offensive linemen when he runs inside.
He doesn't have the speed of a true home-run threat, but he has good initial burst. In the passing game he catches the ball well, can make defenders miss after the catch and is an adequate pass blocker.
21. Laremy Tunsil, OT, Ole Miss Rebels
True freshman | 6-5, 332 pounds
Tunsil isn't the mauler you'd expect from a guy with his frame and measurements. He doesn't have ideal strength and needs to play with more of an edge -- Missouri defensive end Kony Ealy's power and physicality gave him problems in the Tigers' win over the Rebels.
On the other hand, Tunsil is an above-average athlete for his size, which is why at some point he could surpass Peat as the superior offensive tackle. He gets set quickly, has the length to protect the edge and flashes the ability to mirror in pass protection. Once he gets stronger, he should be able to move defenders off the ball, because he has the first-step quickness to get into position as a run blocker.
22. Kendall Fuller, CB, Virginia Tech Hokies
True freshman | 5-11, 193 pounds
Kendall is the fourth Fuller to come through the Virginia Tech program, and he may be the most talented of the bunch. He is a balanced mover who transitions well out of breaks and shows adequate but not upper-echelon top-end speed.
Where Fuller excels is with his eyes and instincts in coverage. He displays sound technique to maintain proper leverage and flashes the anticipation skills to get an early break on the ball. Additionally, he does a great job of locating the ball and shows the body control and hands to finish the play.
23. Carl Lawson, DE, Auburn Tigers
True freshman | 6-2, 258 pounds
Lawson is still a bit raw in terms of instincts and awareness, but he is an explosive athlete who possesses natural playing strength and power. He is an excellent edge defender against the run who plays with quality leverage and flashes heavy hands.
He also flashes a lot of upside as a pass rusher with explosive power, adequate flexibility, active hands and a quick closing burst. He has a chance to develop into an impact edge rusher if he can develop a wider array of moves to his arsenal.
24. Nelson Agholor, WR, USC Trojans
Sophomore | 6-0, 185 pounds
Agholor is a smooth route runner who displays a quick burst out of cuts to create separation from defenders. While he shows above-average body control and ball skills, he can continue to add bulk and get stronger in contested situations.
Where Agholor really excels is with the ball in his hand. He possesses excellent vision, elusiveness and flashes an extra gear to manufacture big plays not just in the passing game but also as a returner on special teams. He averaged 16.2 yards per reception this season and had six total TDs (four receiving, two on punt returns).
25. Stefon Diggs, WR, Maryland Terrapins
Sophomore | 6-0, 195 pounds
Diggs missed the final five games of the season with a broken right fibula, which hurt his positioning in this ranking. But when healthy, he is one of the most versatile players on this list.
He has a natural feel for routes and does a great job of using tempo to set up defenders. He will occasionally allow a ball to get into his frame, but he also flashes the ability to make the acrobatic catch. While he's quicker than fast, Diggs shows excellent instincts and elusiveness to create as a runner both after the catch and as a returner on special teams.
Honorable mentions
RB: Alex Collins, Fr., Arkansas; Kenyan Drake, Soph., Alabama; Byron Marshall, Soph., Oregon
WR: Bralon Addison, Soph., Oregon; Marquez North, Fr., Tennessee
OL: Max Tuerk, Soph., USC
DL: DeForest Buckner, Oregon; Jordan Jenkins, Soph., Georgia
LB: Ejiro Ederaine, Soph., Fresno State; Tyriq McCord, Soph., Miami;
CB: Nate Andrews, Fr., Florida State; Brandon Facyson, Fr., Virginia Tech; P.J. Williams, Soph., Florida State
S: Alex Carter, Soph., Stanford; Su'a Cravens, Fr., USC; Shaq Thompson, Soph., Washington;
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Considering he was at Disney World all day, I'm 100% sure drinking four days ago is the problem here.Johnny F. isn't feeling well per A&M and isn't at awards show
#Hungover
dacomeup
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LOL @ no Stacy Coley on the list or on honorable mention.
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Agreed and
VHIII was FOOD for taller WR's
**** Laremy Tunsil.
dacomeup
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AND no Duke. *Facepalms*
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No Ronald Darby....No Boyd From Pitt...No Keith Marshall either
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I meant to get in on this convo earlier but forgot to.
to all those questioning why Teddy Bridgewater didn't a heisman invite, it's mostly because he had a very average end of the year:
1 touchdown 1 interception against uconn. 0 tds against houston. 1 td 0 picks against memphis. 3 tds and a pick against cincinatti.
Yeah he had a good overall year, numbers wise, but he didn't do anything at the end of the year around when the ballots were being sent out and performances are fresh in voters' memories. couple that with how sorry the AAC is and he's the man left out.
to all those questioning why Teddy Bridgewater didn't a heisman invite, it's mostly because he had a very average end of the year:
1 touchdown 1 interception against uconn. 0 tds against houston. 1 td 0 picks against memphis. 3 tds and a pick against cincinatti.
Yeah he had a good overall year, numbers wise, but he didn't do anything at the end of the year around when the ballots were being sent out and performances are fresh in voters' memories. couple that with how sorry the AAC is and he's the man left out.
mr marcus
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Ok
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Johnny F. isn't feeling well per A&M and isn't at awards show
#Hungover
And where are you even getting that crap from?
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who would you take off to put those other players on there?
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Just because I have nowhere else to share this...
EA Sports
EA Sports
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Just because I have nowhere else to share this...
EA Sports
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I'm taking off Lawson and Treadwell from the top 25, would move Nkemdiche down since he's probably gonna be a 3 technique now...I'm adding Chris Jones from Mississippi State he would be atleast top 15 in my eyes and would atleast add Tyler Boyd....more explosive than Treadwell who only average 8 yds a reception this past season
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Notre Dame loses DC Diaco to UConn
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off topic but a friend just showed me pics of blake bortles' girl and those mammaries whew
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