2013 College Football Thread (Realer than Real Deal Holyfield -->S/O Craftsy)

Mel Kiper
Big Board breakdown


1
Matt Barkley
AGE: 21
DOB: 9/8/90
HT: 6-2
WT: 224
POS: QB
Comp 308
Att 446
Pct 69.1
Yds 3,528
TD 39
Int 7

Would have battled Robert Griffin III to be No. 2 QB taken had he been in the 2012 draft. Will have very good competition to be the No. 1 QB taken in 2013. Strong, but not a huge arm; very good accuracy, poise, leadership skills and a ton of experience. Improvement each year, expanding his skill-set.
LAST WEEK: NA | PLAYER CARD

2
Jarvis Jones *
AGE: 22
DOB: 10/13/89
HT: 6-3
WT: 241
POS: OLB
Tkl 70
Sack 13.5
Int 0

Explosive, relentless edge rusher, profiles well as a 3-4 OLB. Great first step, violent hands, extremely good burst off the snap, tackles well, closes fast. Could improve against run, but coaches there also tell me people don't realize how well he can cover.
LAST WEEK: NA | PLAYER CARD

3
Barkevious Mingo *
AGE: 21
DOB: 10/4/90
HT: 6-5
WT: 242
POS: DE
Tkl 46
Sack 7.0
Int 0

Exceptional length, still adding refinement, but he's well past a mere "athlete" label. Very good pass rusher, able to use speed to get up the field and turn the corner. Still learning concepts after late start in football, but reads game well given lack of experience. Upside city.
LAST WEEK: NA | PLAYER CARD

4
Logan Thomas *
AGE: 20
DOB: 7/1/91
HT: 6-6
WT: 262
POS: QB
Comp 234
Att 391
Pct 59.8
Yds 3,013
TD 19
Int 10

Elite size, elite arm strength, and still scratching the surface as a passer. Overlooked: has very good mechanics. Can drive the ball downfield, but displays nice touch. Accuracy and the ability to work through reads are areas of development. Working hard off the field. New O-line this year.
LAST WEEK: NA | PLAYER CARD

5
Sam Montgomery *
AGE: 21
DOB: 5/25/90
HT: 6-4
WT: 245
POS: DE
Tkl 49
Sack 9.0
Int 0

Lacks the frame of a 4-3 DE at next level, but could still get there, because his frame can handle it. Athleticism and rush skills are there, underrated against the run. Max-effort player, natural athlete, instinctive pass-rusher. Can he drop hips as a LB at next level? Still a lot of projection left.
LAST WEEK: NA | PLAYER CARD

6
D.J. Fluker *
AGE: 21
DOB: 3/13/91
HT: 6-6
WT: 335
POS: OT
GP 13
GS 13

Strength is pass-blocking; quick feet for his size and can ride a speed rush up the field. Must improve ability to use size and engage and drive defenders as a run-blocker. Can dominate here if pad level improves. A lot of natural talent, but development left.
LAST WEEK: NA | PLAYER CARD

7
Robert Woods *
AGE: 20
DOB: 4/10/92
HT: 6-1
WT: 185
POS: WR
Rec 111
Yds 1,292
Avg 11.6
TD 15

Refined, quick, crafty and productive receiver with soft hands and ability to create big plays after the catch. Gets off the line well, uses space along sidelines and in the corners of the end zone like a pro. Has a second gear to beat defenders deep.
LAST WEEK: NA | PLAYER CARD

8
David Amerson *
AGE: 20
DOB: 12/8/91
HT: 6-3
WT: 189
POS: CB
Tkl 59
Sack 0
Int 13

Exceptional cover skills, with instincts and ability of a ballhawk. Size and speed to match up with any receiver, but plays with a sense of when to jump from routes and dive into passing lanes. Led nation in INTs last year. Very competitive kid.
LAST WEEK: NA | PLAYER CARD

9
Star Lotulelei
AGE: 22
DOB: 12/20/89
HT: 6-4
WT: 325
POS: DT
Tkl 43
Sack 1.5
Int 13

Demands a double-team, clogging up the middle of the field. A great sense for how to disrupt the run game, with power to bull rush and penetrate. Explodes off the ball, with great upper body strength.
LAST WEEK: NA | PLAYER CARD

10
Manti Te'o
AGE: 21
DOB: 1/26/91
HT: 6-2
WT: 255
POS: LB
Tkl 128
Sack 5.0
Int 0

Would have been second interior linebacker taken in 2012 draft after Luke Kuechly. Developed in 2011, showing blitzing skills. Big, strong tackling presence in the middle of the field. Reads plays well and gets through traffic.
LAST WEEK: NA | PLAYER CARD

11
Johnathan Hankins *
AGE:
DOB:
HT: 6-3
WT: 335
POS: DT
Tkl 66
Sack 2.0
Int 0

Gets off the line with an explosive first step; just moves tremendously well for his size. Drives opposing blockers into the backfield. Size of a nose tackle, but agile enough to be moved around. Very disruptive force on the line.
LAST WEEK: NA | PLAYER CARD

12
Taylor Lewan *
AGE: 21
DOB: 7/21/91
HT: 6-8
WT: 302
POS: OT
GP 13
GS 13

Will get the Jake Long comparisons all year in Ann Arbor. Elite length and athleticism for the position, profiles as a left tackle. Long arms, able to move with and swat away speed rushers. Underrated power as a run-blocker given his frame.
LAST WEEK: NA | PLAYER CARD

13
Tyler Wilson
AGE: 22
DOB: 8/16/89
HT: 6-3
WT: 220
POS: QB
Comp 277
Att 438
Pct 63.2
Yds 3,638
TD 24
Int 6

A deft passer, he calibrates his throws well, not over-throwing. Maybe the best passer in the class right now in terms of his ability to stare down pressure and deliver passes on time, and in stride. Could challenge the top of the board.
LAST WEEK: NA | PLAYER CARD

14
Johnny Adams
AGE: 22
DOB: 6/9/89
HT: 5-11
WT: 178
POS: CB
Tkl 57
Sack 3.0
Int 3

Sound and instinctive zone corner, he attacks what he sees really well. Lacks elite size, but takes on bigger players and tackles well. Really good blitzer. Needs work on his man game, but very competitive. Great ball skills.
LAST WEEK: NA | PLAYER CARD

15
Kawann Short
AGE: 23
DOB: 2/2/89
HT: 6-3
WT: 312
POS: DT
Tkl 54
Sack 6.5
Int 0

Controls the line of scrimmage, not overly explosive, but uses his hands well to clear blocks and was constantly in the backfield. A better fit in a 4-3. Big question: can he stay consistent? Good athlete -- can dunk a basketball.
LAST WEEK: NA | PLAYER CARD

16
Luke Joeckel *
AGE: 21
DOB: 11/6/91
HT: 6-6
WT: 310
POS: OT
GP 13
GS 13

A starter at left tackle since he landed in College Station, Joeckel specializes in pass protection and doesn't get rattled by quickness or secondary moves. Not an elite athlete, he's a good technician and could rise on the board.
LAST WEEK: NA | PLAYER CARD

17
William Gholston *
AGE: 21
DOB: 7/31/91
HT: 6-7
WT: 274
POS: DE
Tkl 70
Sack 5.0
Int 0

Great length and frame, with very good pass-rushing skills. Has grown into frame; now has solid 4-3 DE size. Experience shows; reads the play well, knowing when to go wide or come inside against the run. Could be in line for a huge year.
LAST WEEK: NA | PLAYER CARD

18
Keenan Allen *
AGE: 20
DOB: 4/27/92
HT: 6-3
WT: 206
POS: WR
Rec 98
Yds 1,343
Avg 13.7
TD 6

Would have been a great safety, too. Strong hands, catches the ball with ease. Sets up defenders, sees the field well, settling in creases against zones. Not a total burner, but can sell short routes and break deep. Great run-after-catch skills.
LAST WEEK: NA | PLAYER CARD

19
Marcus Lattimore *
AGE: 20
DOB: 10/29/91
HT: 6-0
WT: 232
POS: RB
Rush 163
Yds 818
Avg 5.0
TD 10

Will be watched closely as he comes back from an ACL injury. Should be full speed by the time the season gets going. Explosive, tighly-packed player who packs a punch but moves better than a player his size should. Elite if healthy.
LAST WEEK: NA | PLAYER CARD

20
Xavier Rhodes *
AGE: 21
DOB: 6/19/90
HT: 6-2
WT: 209
POS: CB
Tkl 43
Sack 0
Int 1

Don't be fooled by the lack of interceptions -- you can't pick off passes when QBs consistently throw away from you. A starter since his freshman season, Rhodes has elite size, handles deep routes well, and can hang with smaller WRs. Solid prospect.
LAST WEEK: NA | PLAYER CARD

21
Le'Veon Bell *
AGE: 20
DOB: 2/18/92
HT: 6-2
WT: 238
POS: RB
Rush 182
Yds 948
Avg 5.2
TD 13

Big, bruising back who follows blocks well and will run over tacklers. Split carries the last two seasons, but might carry a bigger load in 2012. Not a burner, but has quick feet and can get wide where he won't run out of bounds. Finishes forward.
LAST WEEK: NA | PLAYER CARD

22
Johnthan Banks
AGE: 22
DOB: 10/3/89
HT: 6-2
WT: 185
POS: CB
Tkl 71
Sack 3.0
Int 5

A very good man corner, he's excellent in his backpedal and turns well. Plenty of speed to stay with speedy WRs, has length to battle up high. A little slight, not considered physical, but tape shows he challenged line of scrimmage, piled up tackles for loss.
LAST WEEK: NA | PLAYER CARD

23
Corey Lemonier *
AGE: 21
DOB: 2/19/91
HT: 6-4
WT: 245
POS: DE
Tkl 47
Sack 9.5
Int 0

Still light for a defensive end prospect, Lemonier could probably add some muscle to his frame without giving away too much speed. He thrives on quickness, with great burst off the snap and a few counters. A natural pass-rusher, he'll be one to watch.
LAST WEEK: NA | PLAYER CARD

24
Ricky Wagner
AGE: 22
DOB: 10/21/89
HT: 6-6
WT: 320
POS: OT
GP 14
GS 14

Good combination of size and quickness, with good skills as a pass blocker, but looking to improve as a run-blocker, where he can play a little high. Will need to continue to develop.
LAST WEEK: NA | PLAYER CARD

25
Tyler Eifert *
AGE: 21
DOB: 9/8/90
HT: 6-6
WT: 251
POS: TE
Rec 63
Yds 803
Avg 12.7
TD 5

The blocking tight end is a bit of a misnomer in the NFL -- there just aren't that many, and coaches aren't looking. Eifert is the new class; a former WR, he catches the ball with ease and can split out and create size mismatches and stretch the seams. Top TE in the class.
LAST WEEK: NA | PLAYER CARD


Top 5: Seniors by position
Ranking the top five senior NFL prospects, by position, for the 2012 season


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All of the players listed here go into their final campaign as NFL draft prospects. While the junior class will provide the majority of the first-round draft picks in the 2013 NFL draft, numerous players from this group will also be among the top picks, and the current No. 1 player on my first 2013 NFL draft Big Board comes from this group.

Currently, the quarterback, defensive tackle and interior linebacker prospects are seniors, with the quarterback class particularly strong. As always, let me know who you think should be added to the mix.

More Kiper content:
2013 Big Board | Players who just missed | Top 5 seniors | Top 5 juniors

QUARTERBACKS
RANK
NAME
SCHOOL
HT
WT
CMP
ATT
YDS
TD
INT
SKD
Matt Barkley
6-2
220
308
446
3,528
39
7
8
Tyler Wilson
6-3
220
277
438
3,638
24
6
26
Landry Jones
6-4
229
355
562
4,463
29
15
10
Mike Glennon
6-6
225
283
453
3,054
31
12
31
Geno Smith
6-3
214
346
526
4,385
31
7
26

Analysis: Matt Barkley has always been in the spotlight, but he'll be under the microscope this year. That said, the reality is it's hard to see him struggling. The USC offense offers major talent at all the skill positions and Barkley should be in a comfort zone. Defenses will have to pick their poison, and Barkley has the discipline to see what defenses are giving and won't take unnecessary risks. I expect Landry Jones to bounce back this season after struggling down the stretch in 2011. Tyler Wilson has great poise, is very accurate and has elite arm talent.
RUNNING BACKS
RANK
NAME
SCHOOL
HT
WT
ATT
YDS
AVG
TD
REC
YDS
Montee Ball
5-11
210
307
1,923
6.3
33
24
306
Christine Michael
5-11
213
149
899
6.0
8
8
35
Ray Graham
5-9
195
164
958
5.8
9
30
200
Andre Ellington
5-10
190
223
1,178
5.3
11
22
109
Kenjon Barner
5-11
180
152
939
6.2
11
17
184

Analysis: Montee Ball was incredibly productive in 2011 and I don't expect much of a drop-off. The Wisconsin system churns out offensive line talent, and the road should be well-paved once again. He simply needs to stay healthy. People haven't seen a lot of Michael, but he will be the key to that offense. The battle for him has been constant injury issues. Barner could have a huge year; he's in line for a lot of the carries LaMichael James no longer
FULLBACKS
RANK
NAME
SCHOOL
HT
WT
ATT
YDS
AVG
TD
REC
YDS
Braden Wilson
6-1
245
5
15
3.0
0
2
14
Zach Boren
6-1
252
0
0
0.0
0
6
60
Willie Carter
6-2
221
13
62
4.8
2
61
868
Zach Line
6-1
230
208
1,224
5.9
17
15
139
Taimi Tutogi
6-1
250
25
73
2.9
4
11
97

Analysis: Braden Wilson is a good one and plays such a pivotal role in the Kansas State scheme, often blocking for his own quarterback. Boren was among my top fullbacks among juniors last year and will end up on an NFL roster.
WIDE RECEIVERS
RANK
NAME
SCHOOL
HT
WT
REC
YDS
AVG
LONG
TD
FUM
Cobi Hamilton
6-3
209
34
542
15.9
60
4
0
Terrance Williams
6-3
190
59
957
16.2
77
11
0
Marcus Davis
6-4
228
30
510
17.0
63
5
0
Tavon Austin
5-9
176
101
1,186
11.7
72
8
0
Denard Robinson
6-1
193
0
0
0.0
0
0
0

Analysis: The Arkansas passing game lost some key components to the NFL, but Hamilton remains to pick up the slack. Terrence Williams was quietly just as productive as Kendall Wright last year, and I think people will be surprised at how well the Baylor offense continues to hum.
TIGHT ENDS
RANK
NAME
SCHOOL
HT
WT
REC
YDS
AVG
LONG
TD
FUM
Joseph Fauria
6-8
252
39
481
12.3
32
6
0
Chris Gragg
6-3
236
41
518
12.6
41
2
0
Michael Williams
6-6
269
16
191
11.7
37
2
0
Jake Stoneburner
6-5
245
14
193
13.8
36
7
0
Philip Lutzenkirchen
6-4
264
24
238
9.9
32
7
0

Analysis: Joseph Fauria started at Notre Dame but has come into his own with the Bruins. They've lacked great play from the quarterback position, but at 6-foot-7, Fauria presents a perpetual matchup problem and should have a big year. Gragg (pictured) will be another key target for Wilson at Arkansas and should increase his targets after catching 41 passes in 2011.
OFFENSIVE TACKLES
RANK
NAME
SCHOOL
HT
WT
Ricky Wagner
6-6
320
Oday Aboushi
6-6
310
Alex Hurst
6-6
340
Dallas Thomas
6-5
305
Tanner Hawkinson
6-6
293

Analysis: Ricky Wagner came back for his senior season and will look to improve his stock as a run-blocker. He's a very good pass-blocker but has a tendency to play a little high in the run game and can improve his punch. Aboushi has a chance to move into the first-round picture with a good year.
OFFENSIVE GUARDS
RANK
NAME
SCHOOL
HT
WT
Jonathan Cooper
6-3
310
Chance Warmack
6-3
320
Larry Warford
6-3
336
Braden Hansen
6-6
310
Omoregie Uzzi
6-3
300

Analysis: This group lacks an elite talent but is strong throughout. Cooper has a ton of experience, having started since his redshirt freshman season.
CENTERS
RANK
NAME
SCHOOL
HT
WT
Barrett Jones
6-5
311
Khaled Holmes
6-4
310
Graham Pocic
6-7
350
Mario Benavides
6-4
300
Ben Habern
6-4
292

Analysis: Barrett Jones is a proven commodity and should be the first center taken in the 2013 NFL draft with another strong campaign. Holmes becomes the top offensive lineman for the Trojans. That offense is loaded with talent at the skill positions but will need the offensive line to stay healthy and come together quickly.
DEFENSIVE ENDS
RANK
NAME
SCHOOL
HT
WT
John Simon
6-2
270
Michael Buchanan
6-6
240
Alex Okafor
6-4
260
Brandon Jenkins
6-3
265
Devin Taylor
6-7
260

Analysis: John Simon lacks a true position but sets the tone for the Ohio State defense, starting with his motor. Nobody outworks him. He's really more of a defensive tackle based on how he's been used and could be a good 3-tech at the next level. Keep an eye on Brandon Jenkins. He has a lot of ability as a pass-rusher and could jump up the board.
DEFENSIVE TACKLES
RANK
NAME
SCHOOL
HT
WT
Star Lotulelei
6-3
325
Kawann Short
6-3
310
Jesse Williams
6-4
319
Jordan Hill
6-1
297
Jonathan Jenkins
6-3
351

Analysis: Star Lotulelei projects as one of the top picks in the draft; he's the clear leader right now among defensive tackles in the draft class. He gets a great initial burst and demands double-teams or he'll destroy the pocket. And double-teams hardly neutralize him. Kawann Short clogs the line of scrimmage and really makes that Purdue defense go.
INSIDE LINEBACKERS
RANK
NAME
SCHOOL
HT
WT
Manti Te'o
6-2
255
Kevin Reddick
6-3
240
Arthur Brown
6-1
223
Shayne Skov
6-3
243
Nico Johnson
6-3
245

Analysis: Manti Te'o has been an impact player from day one in South Bend and developed as a blitzer last year. He reads the game well, takes great angles and makes tackles all over the field. Had he been in the 2012 draft, I'm pretty confident he would have been taken in the first round. He should work his way into the upper half of Round 1 in 2013.
OUTSIDE LINEBACKERS
RANK
NAME
SCHOOL
HT
WT
Chase Thomas
6-4
239
Sean Porter
6-2
230
Gerald Hodges
6-2
234
Jamie Collins
6-3
239
Khaseem Greene
6-1
220

Analysis: Chase Thomas finished the 2011 season with 8.5 sacks and could be in the first-round discussion with a similar season in 2012. Gerald Hodges could be the Big Ten defensive player of the year if he continues to play at the level he was at in 2011, which is saying something in that conference.
CORNERBACKS
RANK
NAME
SCHOOL
HT
WT
Johnny Adams
5-11
175
Johnthan Banks
6-2
185
Jordan Poyer
5-11
190
Micah Hyde
6-1
185
Demontre Hurst
5-10
181

Analysis: Johnny Adams doesn't have elite size, but he plays bigger, breaking on the ball and tackling as well as any corner in the draft class. Johnthan Banks, I thought, could have been in the first-round picture in 2012 and should solidify that status this year. He has excellent cover skills, great length and simply needs to become more physical.
SAFETIES
RANK
NAME
SCHOOL
HT
WT
T.J. McDonald
6-3
205
Bacarri Rambo
6-1
218
Robert Lester
6-2
210
John Boyett
5-10
198
Ray-Ray Armstrong
6-4
215

Analysis: T.J. McDonald starts the year right on the edge of my Big Board and is a big hitter. He's been well-coached and has a chance to be the first safety off the board in 2013 if he continues to develop. Rambo is a reliable force in the Georgia secondary.
KICKERS
RANK
NAME
SCHOOL
HT
WT
Dustin Hopkins
6-2
190
Caleb Sturgis
5-11
183
Brett Maher
6-1
185
Zach Brown
6-1
180
Brett Baer
6-0
187

Analysis: Dustin Hopkins has improved his accuracy each year and went 22-of-27 last year with a long of 53 yards. He has a reliable leg from distance, hitting all five of his attempts between 40 and 49 yards in 2011. Sturgis (pictured) went 22-of-26 in 2011.
PUNTERS
RANK
NAME
SCHOOL
HT
WT
Jeff Locke
6-1
214
Quinn Sharp
6-1
189
Ryan Allen
6-2
215
Bobby Cowan
6-5
229
Ian Campbell
5-11
170

Analysis: Jeff Locke could be the top punter in the 2013 draft. Last year Bryan Anger, his top competition in the Pac-12, went in the third round in the 2012 draft.

Top 5: Juniors by position


QUARTERBACKS
RANK
NAME
SCHOOL
HT
WT
CMP
ATT
YDS
TD
INT
SKD
Logan Thomas
6-6
254
234
391
3,013
19
10
17
Tyler Bray
6-6
210
147
247
1,983
17
6
11
AJ McCarron
6-4
205
219
328
2,634
16
5
13
Casey Pachall
6-5
216
228
343
2,921
25
7
13
Aaron Murray
6-1
211
238
403
3,149
35
14
32

Analysis: Logan Thomas is still an unfinished product, but he has as much upside as any player in college football. He has elite size and arm strength but also puts nice touch on the ball. His accuracy is improving. Tyler Bray can deliver strikes all over the field. He has a chance to put together a big year and be a top pick in the draft.
RUNNING BACKS
RANK
NAME
SCHOOL
HT
WT
ATT
YDS
AVG
TD
REC
YDS
Marcus Lattimore
6-1
232
163
818
5.0
10
19
182
Le'Veon Bell
6-2
237
182
948
5.2
13
35
267
Knile Davis
6-1
226
0
0
0.0
0
0
0
Joseph Randle
6-1
191
208
1,216
5.8
24
43
266
Eddie Lacy
6-1
220
95
674
7.1
7
11
131

Analysis: Marcus Lattimore will be coming back from an ACL injury but could be the most complete back in the draft if he can stay healthy. He has great vision, delivers a big punch and is really explosive for his size. Le'Veon Bell always finishes his runs and is total bruiser when he hits the second level. Keep an eye on Eddie Lacy, who becomes the top option at Alabama.
FULLBACKS
RANK
NAME
SCHOOL
HT
WT
ATT
YDS
AVG
TD
REC
YDS
Trey Millard
6-2
249
24
169
7.0
2
13
127
Anthony Barr
6-4
237
9
25
2.8
1
3
16
Ryan Hewitt
6-4
238
10
35
3.5
0
34
282
J.C. Copeland
6-1
280
2
0
0.0
0
0
0
Brad Rogers
5-10
230
3
8
2.7
0
1
7

Analysis: Trey Millard is a classic big, bruising blocker who can pave the way, but also maximizes his own few carries and knows how to catch the ball. He could double his catches this season and become a bigger part of that offense. Anthony Barr is tall but can get low and deliver a blow.
WIDE RECEIVERS
RANK
NAME
SCHOOL
HT
WT
REC
YDS
AVG
LONG
TD
FUM
Robert Woods
6-1
180
111
1,292
11.6
82
15
0
Keenan Allen
6-3
205
98
1,343
13.7
90
6
0
Marquess Wilson
6-4
183
82
1,388
16.9
85
12
0
Da'Rick Rogers
6-3
215
67
1,040
15.5
58
9
0
Kenny Stills
6-1
189
61
849
13.9
58
8
0

Analysis: A very good group with a diverse range of skills. Robert Woods is a complete threat at WR, able to create space underneath and reach a second gear and beat defenders deep. Allen has exceptional hands and great instincts, and Wilson is quietly perhaps the best deep threat in the college game. It'll be interesting to see how Mike Leach utilizes him in 2012.
TIGHT ENDS
RANK
NAME
SCHOOL
HT
WT
REC
YDS
AVG
LONG
TD
FUM
Tyler Eifert
6-6
249
63
803
12.7
38
5
0
Levine Toilolo
6-8
263
25
343
13.7
41
6
0
Zach Ertz
6-6
249
27
346
12.8
26
4
0
Jordan Reed
6-3
239
28
307
11.0
31
2
0
Dion Sims
6-5
276
12
99
8.3
21
3
0

Analysis: Tyler Eifert is a typical new-breed tight end. He plays the game like a big wideout and should often be split out wide to maximize matchups. He has great length and very good hands. Levine Toilolo is ready to step into the void at Stanford. At 6-foot-8, he's an impossible matchup in the red zone and is a pretty good athlete.
OFFENSIVE TACKLES
RANK
NAME
SCHOOL
HT
WT
D.J. Fluker
6-6
335
Taylor Lewan
6-8
294
Luke Joeckel
6-6
310
James Hurst
6-7
310
Jake Matthews
6-5
305

Analysis: D.J. Fluker has worked on the right side but has the upside of a blindside tackle. He starts the season as a top-10 player on my Big Board. Tyler Lewan (pictured) has great length and the athleticism you look for as a blindside protector. He moves easily and could get bigger and stronger, but is already a very good prospect and could move to the top of the board at his position.
OFFENSIVE GUARDS
RANK
NAME
SCHOOL
HT
WT
Travis Frederick
6-4
330
Alvin Bailey
6-5
319
Gabe Jackson
6-4
320
Andrew Rodriguez
6-6
325
Gabe Ikard
6-4
295

Analysis: It's no surprise to see a Wisconsin guard at the top of this list. Last year, a pair of Wisconsin interior lineman were taken in the first two rounds. Frederick has that kind of potential as he continues to develop. Gabe Ikard (pictured) has a chance to rise up this list.
CENTERS
RANK
NAME
SCHOOL
HT
WT
Travis Swanson
6-5
305
Weston Richburg
6-4
302
Tyler Larsen
6-4
297
Khalil Wilkes
6-3
287
Andrew Miller
6-4
290

Analysis: Travis Swanson is the cornerstone of an Arkansas offensive line that will be in the spotlight this year. Tyler Wilson's success will be tied to how well that group can protect as they break in some new receivers. The run game with Knile Davis will be a big part of the plan.
DEFENSIVE ENDS
RANK
NAME
SCHOOL
HT
WT
Barkevious Mingo
6-5
240
Sam Montgomery
6-4
245
William Gholston
6-7
280
Corey Lemonier
6-4
234
Jackson Jeffcoat
6-5
253

Analysis: The LSU defensive line could be the nation's best in 2012, with Mingo and Montgomery creating all kinds of havoc for opposing passers on the edges. Both have a great burst. The question for each is size and how they project to the NFL. Both stand 6-5 and have the frame to add weight. But each could become stand-up pass-rushers at the next level. Gholston is more of a true 4-3 defensive end and is in line for a big year, but also a lot of blocking attention.
DEFENSIVE TACKLES
RANK
NAME
SCHOOL
HT
WT
Johnathan Hankins
6-3
335
Bennie Logan
6-3
287
Sharrif Floyd
6-3
295
Akeem Spence
6-1
305
Kwame Geathers
6-6
350

Analysis: Johnathan Hankins has the size to develop into a true nose tackle but has a great burst and could become a really versatile lineman. He gets a great initial punch and will push the pocket from the inside. Logan is an emerging talent for LSU and jumps into the spotlight on the interior with the departure of first-round pick Michael Brockers. No surprise to see a trio here from the SEC.
INSIDE LINEBACKERS
RANK
NAME
SCHOOL
HT
WT
C.J. Mosley
6-2
234
Alec Ogletree
6-3
236
Max Bullough
6-3
245
Chris Borland
5-11
245
Andrew Jackson
6-1
255

Analysis: C.J. Mosley is a proven talent, but now becomes the man at linebacker for the Crimson Tide in the absence of Dont'a Hightower and Courtney Upshaw from what was a brilliant Bama defense in 2011. Keep an eye on Bullough, who has become a reliable tackling machine on what should be a very strong Spartans defense in 2012. Chris Borland is pictured.
OUTSIDE LINEBACKERS
RANK
NAME
SCHOOL
HT
WT
Jarvis Jones
6-3
241
Jonathan Brown
6-1
235
Damontre Moore
6-4
245
Christian Jones
6-4
240
Trent Murphy
6-6
246

Analysis: Jarvis Jones tops the list and begins the year as the No. 2 overall prospect on my Big Board. He profiles as a dynamic pass-rusher in a 3-4. He has exceptional burst off the line of scrimmage and is a nightmare assignment in a one-on-one matchup. He'll demand constant help if offenses hope to contain him. His lone weakness is as a run defender.
CORNERBACKS
RANK
NAME
SCHOOL
HT
WT
David Amerson
6-3
185
Xavier Rhodes
6-2
215
Tyrann Mathieu
5-9
175
Carrington Byndom
6-0
175
Tharold Simon
6-3
187

Analysis: David Amerson is the rare corner with strong cover skills but with the instincts of a ball hawk. He has a great sense of how the play is developing even when his back is turned. The challenge this year will be focus as teams work away from him. Mathieu jumped on the scene last year with big plays, but he's small and needs work as a cover corner. He's a huge threat in the return game.
SAFETIES
RANK
NAME
SCHOOL
HT
WT
Tony Jefferson
5-10
199
Eric Reid
6-2
208
Matt Elam
5-10
206
Brian Blechen
6-2
230
Hakeem Smith
6-1
183

Analysis: Tony Jefferson is a great athlete and proved he can take on other roles. Last year, Oklahoma asked him to play linebacker and he acquitted himself pretty well, but he should develop into a star at safety, a much better fit for his skill set (and size). Reid is quietly the best player in the LSU secondary.
KICKERS
RANK
NAME
SCHOOL
HT
WT
Zach Hocker
6-1
180
Chris Boswell
6-2
200
Taylor Groff
6-0
190
Drew Basil
6-1
212
Chandler Catanzaro
6-2
205

Analysis: Zach Hocker has a strong leg and knocked home 21 of 27 field goals last year after going 16-19 as a freshman. He has range past 50 yards.
PUNTERS
RANK
NAME
SCHOOL
HT
WT
Brian Schmiedebusch
6-4
214
Dalton Botts
6-3
198
Pat O'Donnell
6-5
217
Ron Doherty
6-0
206
Matt Yoklic
6-4
205

Analysis: Brian Schmiedebusch averaged more than 45 yards per punt in 2011 and has what scouts are looking for most -- the ability to get great height on his punts.
 
DUBLIN - Former Notre Dame running back and current team radio analyst Allen Pinkett has been removed from the radio broadcast for Saturday's season opener between Notre Dame and Navy.

IMG Sports Media, which produces Notre Dme football broadcasts, released the following statement on Thursday:

"Allen Pinkett, a commentator on the IMG Notre Dame Radio Network who made unacceptable comments this week about student athletes, will not be part of this weekend’s broadcast in Dublin. Notre Dame taking on Navy at the Emerald Isle Classic in Dublin is an historic game showcasing the very best of American college sports. The event deserves to be free of distraction. Further decisions on this matter will be made in the coming days."

During an appearance on WSCR-AM 670 in Chicago on Wednesday, Pinkett said Notre Dame needs a few “bad citizens” in order to win.

"I've always felt like to have a successful team you've got to have a few bad citizens on the team," Pinkett. "That's how Ohio State used to win all the time. They would have two or three guys that were criminals and that just adds to the chemistry of the team. I think Notre Dame is growing because maybe they have some guys that are doing something worthy of a suspension which creates edge on the football team.

"You can't have a football team full of choirboys,” Pinkett continued. “You get your butt kicked if you've got a team full of choirboys so you've got to have a little bit of edge. But the coach has to be the dictator and the ultimate ruler. Here's my opinion: You don't hand out suspensions unless you know you've got somebody behind that guy that can make plays."

Pinkett’s words were part of a discussion over the recent two-game suspensions of Cierre Wood and Justin Utupo on top of the earlier one-game suspensions for Tommy Rees and Carlo Calabrese.

Given a chance to back off his comments, Pinkett kept going.

"I absolutely meant that," Pinkett said. "The chemistry is so important on a football team. You have to have a couple of bad guys that sort of teeter on that edge to add to the flavor of the guys that are going to always do right because that just adds to the chemistry of the football team. You have to have ... you look at the teams that have won in the past they have always had a couple of criminals."

The controversial comments drew a stern brief statement from Notre Dame Athletic Director Jack Swarbrick.

“Allen Pinkett’s suggestion that Notre Dame needs more 'bad guys' on its football team is nonsense. Of course, Allen does not speak for the University, but we could not disagree more with this observation."

Pinkett apologized for the remarks on Wednesday evening.

"In reviewing my remarks from a radio interview Wednesday, it's clear that I chose my words poorly and that an apology is in order for these inappropriate comments," Pinkett said in a statement.

"My words do not reflect the strong pride and passion I have for the Notre Dame football program.

"I am deeply sorry and did not intend to take away the focus from the upcoming season opener. I especially would like to offer my sincere apology to the current members of Notre Dame’s football team, including Coach Kelly, the entire Notre Dame community, the IMG College Audio Network and the Ohio State football program. As a proud Notre Dame graduate, I wish nothing but the best for our football team and the University.

"I understand that there may be consequences to my actions and accept whatever discipline is imposed."
Click to expand...

http://www.wsbt.com/news/wsbt-pinkett-removed-from-notre-damenavy-broadcast-20120830,0,3210097.story

Pinket really screwed himself on this one. :smh:
 
Former USC defensive lineman Armond Armstead sues school over painkiller injections

By Bryan Fischer | College Football Blogger
August 30, 2012 5:14 pm ET

Former USC defensive lineman Armond Armstead has filed a lawsuit against the school over team doctors' treatment that eventually caused a heart attack and led to a premature end of his college career, the Sacramento Bee reports.

The suit, filed in L.A. Superior Court on Thursday, claims doctors injected Armstead with the painkiller Toradol 10 different times as he recovered from shoulder injury in 2010. The injections were apparently called "mandatory" for the 6-foot-5, 295-pounder and he was later told they were a "substantial" factor in a heart attack he suffered in February 2010 during workouts.
Click to expand...
 
College Football is back!!! THANK THE LORD!


700
 
Is there a mobile version of NT?

its damn near impossible to browse this site on either of my phones.

even my Tablet runs slow
 
******g Jesse Palmer and his "physicality". Waiting to hear about the SEC speeeeed.

Wow...Lattimore fumble after right after a ballsy turnover on downs by Vandy.
 
Last edited:

USC making all kinds of news today...not in a good way either..but watch of much either of these stories get reported. :smh:
 
Haha, go from the 5 yard line getting 3 pts to down 7-0 in 3 plays. Bad football so far, nice job by SCar to capitalize.
 
GUNNA GET IT said:
Is there a mobile version of NT?
its damn near impossible to browse this site on either of my phones.
even my Tablet runs slow
Click to expand...
There will be one by the end of September, according to the admin. 

Right now, I can't see any videos on this board when I browse from a tablet. And the text editor is all messed up. The icons are straight from Windows 95. 
 
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