In the Players To Watch series Quick Slants will be bringing to your attention a player from the offense and defence of every team in a selected conference. These players may not be the best or most recognisable on their teams, but they will be key contributors for the upcoming 2012 season. So far we have covered the Big Ten, today's article will take a look at the SEC.
Alabama
Offense - OL Barrett Jones - In his time with the Crimson Tide, Barrett Jones has won two National Championships (2009, 2011), been named a unanimous All-American (2011), and has won the Outland Trophy for the best interior lineman in college football (2011). Jones has also proven his versatility along the offensive line, starting at RG for a total of 25 games in his redshirt freshman and sophomore years, before moving over to LT in his junior year. In 2012 he makes another position change, he will become Alabama's starting center to fill the hole left by William Vlachos. If he excels at his new position it can only help his stock for the 2013 NFL Draft.
Defence - LB CJ Mosley - Junior linebacker CJ Mosley split time at weak inside 'backer with Nico Johnson in 2011 and put up fairly decent numbers of: 37 tackles, 4.5 for a loss, and 2 sacks. In 2012, with Dont'a Hightower departed for the NFL, Mosley has to step up as a leader on a rebuilt Crimson Tide defence. Mosley produced a stellar freshman year in 2010, and he must be better than he was in 2011 to bolster an Alabama defence that has questions marks due to the many departures it saw after the 2011 National Championship win.
Arkansas
Offense - WR Cobi Hamilton - Star quarterback Tyler Wilson threw for over 3600 yards in 2011, but he loses his top two WRs for 2012 because of the graduation of Jarius Wright and Joe Adams. Step forth, Cobi Hamilton. Hamilton was third on the receiving charts for Arkansas last season, and now the 6'3", 210lb senior must fill the shoes left by Wright as the #1 target in the passing game. Hamilton certainly has the game to produce big numbers, and factoring in that this will be his final season to impress NFL scouts, expect a big jump in productivity for the Texas native.
Defence - LB Alonzo Highsmith - Arkansas needs leadership to survive the difficult change that has been thrust upon the program with the Bobby Petrino affair; senior LB Highsmith should be one of those who can provide it. Highsmith had an excellent junior year with 80 tackles, 12.5 for a loss, and 4.5 sacks. He must improve personally, but also help the team, specifically against the run - Arkansas ranked 73rd in the nation in 2011 against the run. The outside linebacker should produce an even better season than 2011, and have Arkansas contending for the SEC West again this year. He injured his pectoral muscle in spring, but should be good to go in the fall.
Auburn
Offense - WR Emory Blake - Despite being predominantly a running team in 2011 Auburn struggled the most when senior receiver Emory Blake was missing from the attack. Blake stretched defences - as shown by his 17 yards per catch average - to allow the running game to work, without him Auburn had very little to stop teams keying on the stellar rushing attack, and the quarterbacks struggled to find a replacement target. Blake should be just as important to the offense, and whoever wins the quarterback battle, in 2012. Hopefully, he will not see a return of the nagging ankle injury that limited him in the second half of the season.
Defence - DE Corey Lemonier - Lemonier, a former 4-star recruit from Florida, turned in an excellent sophomore season for the Tigers. Lemonier specialised in getting into the backfield, with 13.5 tackles for loss, 9.5 sacks, 15 QB hurries and 5 forced fumbles. Those numbers are impressive for such a young defensive end, but there is more to come from the exciting, athletic junior. He must defend better against the run (the whole Auburn defence needs to!), whilst also showing ability to shed blocks better, rather than relying on pure athleticism against lesser tackles. Auburn were poor on D in 2011, Lemonier must help set the tone in 2012. He could jump to the NFL if he betters his production of 2011 in the upcoming season.
Florida
Offense - RB Mike Gillislee - Florida have gone in a different direction offensively sine the days of Urban Meyer. Will Muschamp believes in a balanced pro-style attack, with a downhill running game, though this approach did not garner much reward in 2011. With Brent Pease added from Boise State as the new offensive co-ordinator, Muschamp hopes for a more high-powered offense. The key will be senior RB Mike Gillislee, who has struggled to get going in his Gator career due to Chris Rainey and Jeff Demps. Gillislee separated himself in camp as a 3-down back, and he must deliver on the promise he has shown - Florida will need a strong running game to aid whoever wins the protracted QB battle.
Defence - DL Sharrif Floyd - The Gators rarely fail to bring in highly talented defensive line recruits, and Sharrif Floyd is one. He has not quite yet lived up to the talent Florida thought they were getting after signing him out of Pennsylvania, but he definitely has the ability to be another Gator first round lineman. Floyd must step up after the loss of former #1 recruit DE Robert Powell and put together a breakout year. Florida will move Floyd around along the line, and he must take advantage of the mismatches he will see. Expect a big year for this blue-chip talent.
Georgia
Offense - QB Aaron Murray - If Murray was just two inches taller we would be talking about a possible future #1 NFL Draft pick, as it is, at 6'1" NFL teams will need convincing his height will not affect him at the next level. His play in his two years as a starter for the Bulldogs should help alleviate those fears - he has arguably become the best quarterback in the SEC. In just two years he has thrown for over 6000 yards and 59 touchdowns in an offense that is considered a pro-style. His interception count is possibly a shade too high at 22, but Murray is a gunslinger, and the main reason this offense works, so he will take risks throwing into holes that aren't there. Murray should be great to watch again in 2012.
Defence - LB Jarvis Jones - Jones originally signed with USC, but they wouldn't clear him to play after he suffered a neck injury. So, he transferred home and the rest is history. After sitting out 2010, Jones burst onto the scene as a redshirt sophomore in 2011 to the tune of 70 tackles, 19.5 for loss, 13.5 sacks, and an incredible 26 QB hurries. Jones is an outstanding speed rusher off the edge for Georgia, and another top notch season will see him jump to the NFL, so watch him in college football while you can!
Kentucky
Offense - WR Demarco Robinson - Kentucky are, quite plainly, a bad football program who will always be overshadowed by their basketball counterparts, this will not change in 2012. There are a few bright spots though, and Demarco Robinson is one of them. The Wildcats never replaced the production of Randall Cobb properly after he graduated, but Robinson looks to be the guy who might. Robinson set state records in talent-rich Georgia at the wide receiver position, but he is under-sized at just 5'9" and 160lbs. The shifty sophomore had a great spring - topped off with 146 yards and two touchdowns in the spring game - and could be the x-factor in Kentucky's offense for this year.
Defence - LB Avery Williamson - Williamson has the unenviable task of replacing Danny Trevathan at middle linebacker, who was a veritable stats machine for the Kentucky defence (he led the team in tackles, interceptions, and sacks in 2011). With the linebacking corps decimated by graduation, Williamson will have to step into the role of a leader - he already has extensive playing experience despite not having started a game. I'm expecting a big year for the junior linebacker from Tennessee.
LSU
Offense - QB Zach Mettenberger - Mettenberger originally signed for the Georgia Bulldogs, in the same class as Georgia starter Aaron Murray. Mettenberger transferred out after being kicked off the team and became a junior college star for Butler County Community College. He then committed to LSU and will become their starter in his junior year. Mettenberger has great size (6'5", 230lbs) and a cannon for an arm. His physical tools alone make him intriguing, but it will be interesting to see how he will perform in a very run-centric attack on a team expected to challenge for the National Championship.
Defence - S Eric Reid - Whilst all of the focus is on CB Tyrann Mathieu and the beasts that populate LSU's defensive line, Eric Reid is quietly building a reputation as one of the nation's premier free safeties. At 6'2", 210lbs he has ideal size, and he made the plays in 2011 to back up his talent. Reid, a former 4-star recruit was joint first on the team in tackles with 76, whilst he also had two interceptions and two forced fumbles. He will go fairly unnoticed again in 2012, but his solid safety play is a key for the Tigers.
Mississippi
Offense - WR Donte Moncrief - Ole Miss were pretty anaemic on offense in 2011, but one bright spot was the play of true freshman Moncrief. He set a freshman record for Rebels receivers with 31 catches, which went for 454 yards and 4 touchdowns (he led the team in all three categories). At 6'2" he is a big target and should excel in new coach Hugh Freeze's spread offense.
Defence - LB CJ Johnson - Johnson originally came to Oxford as a 5-star linebacker recruit, and the jewel in the crown of the 2011 recruiting class. Although he saw extensive action as a true freshman, he was switched from linebacker to starting defensive end during 2011. He showed great ability at the position, and thus, Freeze has moved him to defensive end full time in 2012. He is speedy and athletic and, although he may be slightly under-sized, he should wreak havoc in opposing backfields. Johnson has the ability to be All-SEC.
Mississippi State
Offense - QB Tyler Russell - Russell is more of a typical pocket passer than previous quarterback Chris Relf, and the offense will be tweaked by Dan Mullen to reflect this. Whilst the offense will continue to rely on a decent rushing attack, Russell will still be required to air the ball out. He saw extensive time in 2011, his sophomore year, and was hardly impressive, although there were flashes of ability and a decent arm. Russell will have experienced targets in Arceto Clark and Chad Bumphis, and if he gets it right, he could be the best Bulldog passer in a long time.
Defence - CB Johnthan Banks - Banks does not get the coverage he deserves because he is playing in Starkville. The senior-to-be has 12 interceptions in his Bulldog career and is amongst the best cornerbacks playing in college football right now. He could have left after last year and been drafted, but family reasons meant he stayed to complete his eligibility with Mississippi State. At 6'2", 185lbs has he great size and length, he should have another stellar year and will be a contender for All-SEC honours. He will then move on to the NFL where he has a decent chance of being selected in the first round.
Missouri
Offense - QB James Franklin - Franklin will be the key to Missouri's ability to adjust to the SEC. If he performs as he did in 2011 Missouri will have a seamless transition. However, the dual-threat quarterback has been battling injuries all spring, and if he goes up against SEC defenses unsure of himself, he will get punished. Franklin was dynamic for the Tigers in '11, throwing for just under 3000 yards, whilst rushing for nearly 1000 on the ground. He was responsible for 36 touchdowns in total. Missouri will need to ride their QB to success in 2012, they must hope he is up to the task physically, and in terms of ability.
Defence - DT Sheldon Richardson - Richardson was a top 5 recruit in 2009, but he went to community college before eventually enrolling at Missouri. He had a decent year in 2011, but really needs to step his game up in 2012 to stand out in the crowd of unbelievably talented SEC defensive tackles. He needs to start using technique rather than his pure, although impressive, athleticism. He posted 37 tackles, 8 for a loss, and 2 sacks in 2011. Ideally, Missouri would like to see those numbers double, but I would expect a slight improvement in 2012 due to jump in competition he will face.
South Carolina
Offense - QB Connor Shaw - Shaw will finally be given the reigns of the South Carolina offense, and I expect him to have a decent season. He played very effectively when he took over in 2011 and offers a threat to run, as well as being a decent thrower. He does need to produce more consistently through the air, which will be made harder by the departure of Alshon Jeffery, but he will be helped by a strong running game with the return of RB Marcus Lattimore. It will be interesting to see how Shaw progresses in 2012.
Defence - DE JaDeveon Clowney - Clowney was the #1 ranked recruit in 2011 and he didn't fail to impress in his first season in Columbia. His 36 tackles, 12 for a loss, 8 sacks, and 5 forced fumbles were excellent output for a true freshman lineman in the SEC. This year Clowney has the potential to improve his reputation further, particularly with the excellent Devin Taylor causing havoc on the opposite side of the line. Clowney is definitely one to keep an eye on.
Tennessee
Offense - WR Justin Hunter - Hunter, in my opinion, is the most explosive receiver in the nation. In just three games last year he had 17 catches for 314 yards and 2 touchdowns at an incredible 18.47 yards per catch. With Da'Rick Rogers at the other WR spot defences have to decide which one to focus on, as both have the potential to break a game open. Hunter is a spectacular deep threat, and with his knee healed and a healthy Tyler Bray at quarterback he should finally put together a great season.
Defence - LB AJ Johnson - Johnson emerged as an outstanding linebacker for the Vols as a true freshman in 2011. He was second on the team in tackles with 80 and had 4.5 for loss. His performances earnt him freshman All-American hounours and he can only build on his outstanding first year in college football. At 6'3", 245lbs the outsider linebacker already has NFL size, and he must continue to set the tone on a young Vols team in 2011.
Texas A&M
Offense - RB Christine Michael - With a new starter at quarterback the Aggies will be relying on their ground game to get them going in their first season in the SEC. Senior RB Christine Michael will be the main ball-carrier for A&M. He was having an excellent season in 2011, until injury forced him out of the last 4 contests. He had 899 yards and 8 touchdowns, with a season-high performance of 230 yards and 3 touchdowns against Arkansas, in what was looking to be a breakout year for 5'10", 215lb star. He will be the key to Texas A&M's offense and ball control in 2012.
Defence - DE Damontre Moore & LB Sean Porter - Texas A&M have a pair of exciting defenders in Moore and Porter, who last season compiled 18 sacks and 34.5 tackles for a loss between them. The junior and senior will be playing DE and OLB as the Aggies shift to a 4-3 under Kevin Sumlin; hopefully they will be able to hold up in the new defensive scheme. These two will be incredibly instrumental as A&M must win the turnover battle this year, and pressure is the only way to do it. Not on the level of Von Miller, but two very exciting players.
Vanderbilt
Offense - QB Jordan Rodgers - He's not quite had the college career of his brother, Aaron, but Jordan Rodgers could really make a name for himself in 2012. An excellent dual-threat, who is a more accomplished runner than thrower, helped spark a Commodore offense that was dwindling before his introduction as starter. He must be better putting the ball in the air to utilise the talents of Jordan Matthews and Chris Boyd, as Vanderbilt's main problem was not being able to throw consistently, despite their excellent ground game. Hasn't got the starting role locked down, but should beat former Wyoming QB Austyn Carter-Samuels in the battle in summer.
Defence - DT Rob Lohr - Lohr is an underrated defensive tackle for the Commodores. He quietly put together a nice season in 2011, making 41 tackles, 11.5 for a loss, and 4.5 sacks from the middle of Vanderbilt's line. His numbers have increased every year in the program and there is no reason to believe this trend will not continue in 2012. Lohr is one to watch on an average Commodore defence.
Thursday, 7 June 2012
Friday, 1 June 2012
Players To Watch: Big Ten
In the Players To Watch series Quick Slants will be bringing to your attention a player from the offense and defence of every team in a selected conference. These players may not be the best or most recognisable on their teams, but they will be key contributors for the upcoming 2012 season. We start with the Big Ten conference:
Illinois
Offense - QB Nathan Scheelhaase - The Fighting Illini's offense will go as their junior quarterback goes. The Missouri native failed to progress as much as was expected in his sophomore year, with his TD:Int ratio dropping from 17:8 to 13:8, whilst his rushing numbers decreased from his freshman year. Over the first 6 games he was responsible for 14 touchdowns and Illinois were 6-0; over the final 7 games he was responsible for just 5 touchdowns and Illinois were 1-6. Clearly he is the key to the offense and he will have little help - there are no proven running backs and AJ Jenkins, who caught 90 balls in 2011, is now in the NFL.
Defence - LB Jonathan Brown - Brown is rather unheralded and is over-shadowed on his own defense by players such as DT Akeem Spence and DE Michael Buchanan who have more name recognition, but Brown is a dynamic player in his own right. As a sophomore in 2011 Brown was a statistical machine for the Illinois defense; he racked up 100 tackles, 19.5 for loss, 6 sacks and an interception. Brown should get more coverage this year for his stellar work at linebacker, he is definitely one to watch.
Indiana
Offense - QB Tre Roberson - Roberson added a spark once he took over the starting role in 2011. It wasn't enough to actually get a win for the Hoosiers, but he definitely gave Indiana fans someone to be excited about. His dual-threat ability means teams have to account for him in both phases of the offense, though he really needs this offseason to upgrade his performance in the passing game. Roberson could be the spark the Hoosiers need to turn around from their 1-11 2011 season.
Defence - S Mark Murphy - On a very average unit safety Mark Murphy stood out in his true freshman year. Playing both safety and outside linebacker, he led the team in tackles with a total of 76 whilst also returning an interception for a touchdown. Murphy showed great promise and was named to a few All-Big Ten Freshman teams for 2011. Murphy should step up to be a leader on Indiana's struggling D in 2012. He is the son of former Green Bay Packers safety Mark Murphy.
Iowa
Offense - WR Keenan Davis - Iowa's traditionally strong running game is in transition, as such, their most valuable asset on offense right now is QB James Vandenberg. The big question is who is going to throw to without departed WR Marvin McNutt? Davis was the #2 receiver last year with 50 catches for 713 yards and 4 TDs, now he must show he can be a #1 receiver and replace McNutt's production or Iowa are going nowhere fast. At 6'3" and 215lbs Davis has the size to trouble most cornerbacks he will face. He must now prove he can be the focal point of an offense, and not just someone who benefits from better players drawing attention away from him.
Defence - S Nico Law - Law played very little in 2011, but after a great spring he is expected to become a starter at the safety position for the Hawkeyes. The reason Law has been chosen as the player to watch, despite having limited playing experience, is because of his potential to be a destroyer in the defensive backfield. He lit up his own team-mates in the spring game and flashed a physical presence that the Iowa defence was missing last year. The sophomore could be a very exciting player for the Hawkeyes, one who can change the momentum of a game with one hit.
Michigan
Offense - RB Fitzgerald Toussaint - Quarterback Denard Robinson is clearly the most important player for the Wolverines, but we all know that, so we're showcasing Michigan's starting running back. As a sophomore in 2011 Toussaint ran for 1041 yards and 9 touchdowns at 5.6 ypc. He provided a vital supporting role to Robinson in the run game and picked up five 100-yard performances over the course of the season. I expect to see the ball handed off to him just a little more this season - to take some of the pressure off Robinson's shoulders - and with it expect a decent season from an efficient back who proved towards the end of 2012 he could handle 20+ carries per game.
Defence - LB Jake Ryan - Ryan flashed excellent ability as an outside linebacker for the Wolverines in 2011. He was just a redshirt freshamn, but he compiled 37 tackles, 11 of which went for a loss, and 3 sacks. Ryan produced his biggest game in the Sugar Bowl against Virginia Tech, where he made 7 tackles, 4 for a loss, and a sack. As a sophomore, Ryan has the potential to become a key play-maker on an improving defence. He was named on the All-Big Ten Freshman team.
Michigan State
Offense - RB Le'Veon Bell - With Kirk Cousins and the top 3 receivers from Michigan State all graduating after 2011 the passing game will be a huge question in 2012. This means we will see a lot of Bell, a 6'2", 240lb beast, running the ball. He has already compiled over 1500 yards and 21TDs in his two years as a backup, and last year his elevated play pretty much forced fellow running back Edwin Baker to turn pro. Bell will be relied on whilst Andrew Maxwell gets used to be the quarterback, thus he should put up pretty decent numbers in 2012.
Defence - LB Denicos Allen - The junior may well be the best defender on what is a fairly strong Spartan defence. Allen amassed 83 tackles, 18.5 tackles for loss, and 11 sacks from the SAM 'backer spot in 2011, his first year as a starter. There are more recognisable names on this defence such as DE William Gholston, but Allen knows how to get into the backfield and make just be MSU's premier talent on this side of the ball.
Minnesota
Offense - QB MarQueis Gray - On a pretty bad team senior quarterback MarQueis Gray is the only difference-maker on offense. He is a pretty average thrower, but uses his legs to good effect - he was the top rusher for Minnesota with 966 yards and 6 touchdowns. This year he needs to be a more efficient passer, and he needs to improve without top target Da'Jon McKnight who graduated after the 2011 season. If anyone is going to do anything exciting on this poor Golden Gopher team it will be Gray, so he is Minnesota's one to watch.
Defence - DE Michael Amaefula - This sophomore is set for a break-out year at defensive end. Whilst he didn't play all that regularly as a freshman, a good spring, concluded with a spring game in which he made 2 sacks, means that this young end from Arlington, Texas could be the one to watch on a fairly average unit.
Nebraska
Offense - QB Taylor Martinez - Martinez has been much maligned as Nebraska's quarterback, despite leading the team to 19 wins as freshman and sophomore. The team will be strong on the ground, where Martinez compliments RB Rex Burkhead well, but Martinez should be throwing it a little more too, with WR Kenny Bell and TE Kyler Reed excellent, if under-utilised, targets. To get Nebraska over the hump and into a BCS Martinez's all round play must improve, and that is why he is the one to watch.
Defence - DE Cameron Meredith - On a defense devoid of any real star names after the depature of Lavonte David and Jared Crick, Meredith really needs to step up. The Cornhuskers struggled to get to the quarterback in 2011 with just 21 sacks, of which Meredith had 5. Whilst he produced a respectable 58 tackles from the end position, Meredith needs to lead the charge to the QB and the senior, originally from California, needs a big year to boost his draft stock. In most scouts eyes he is a run stopping end, but if he can get close to double-digit sacks in 2012 he might be able to change that perception.
Northwestern
Offense - QB Kain Colter - Colter is a dynamic weapon for the Wildcats. Last season he played quarterback, saw time at running back, and even played as a wide receiver at times. Colter's athleticism meant he just could not be kept off the field. In 2012 the junior will get a shot to apply his athleticism to the quarterback position like Mike Kafka and Dan Persa before him. Colter will be a dangerous dual threat to defend for opposing defences, but he must improve his passing ability - he can be rather erratic at times. Northwestern have normally had quite exciting offenses in recent times, hopefully Colter will continue this trend.
Defence - S Ibraheim Campbell - Campbell was a shining light on a defense that was pretty poor in 2011. He led the team in tackles with 100, whilst adding 2 interceptions and 4 passes broken up as a freshman starter. He was a freshman All-American for his efforts in 2011. As a sophomore he can only improve, but he must take on a leadership role in a young defensive backfield.
Ohio State
Offense - QB Braxton Miller - Miller will be the key to Urban Meyer's spread offense working how it should. Miller was limited as a true freshman, despite taking the role of starter in the middle of the season. His rushing ability is excellent - in three of his last five games he has gone over 100 yards - but his passing ability is questionable, as is shown by his poor numbers from 2011. Meyer's spread should help make the passing game easier for him though, and Miller could quickly become the premier offensive player in the conference if everything comes together.
Defence - DL John Simon - Simon is a beast on the defensive line for the Buckeyes, and is a physical freak. At 6'2", 270lbs he isn't the largest, but he is one of the most focused and intense players around. Urban Meyer referred to him as 'Tebow-ish' in his drive in the weight room and in preparation. The senior had an excellent 2011 with 53 tackles, 16 for loss and 7 sacks, he will need to keep that kind of performance up in 2012 to help the Buckeyes get back on track.
Penn State
Offense - RB Silas Redd - Redd is pretty much the only proven thing PSU have at the offensive skill positions, thus in 2012 fans will be seeing Redd, Redd, and more Redd. In this case it won't be a bad thing, either. In 2011 he produced 1241 yards and 7 TDs at 5ypc, but he tailed off towards the end of the year, most likely due to tiredness. As a junior we will only see those numbers increase, he should be a lock for 1300 and 10+ touchdowns if he doesn't get injured.
Defence - LB Gerald Hodges - This senior outside linebacker isn't a big name, but he was very productive in 2011 and should continue that trend in 2012. He made 106 tackles, 10 for a loss, with 4.5 sacks and 2 forced fumbles, a performance that gained him a place on the All-Big Ten team voted by the conference's coaches. As a converted safety he has the sideline-to-sideline range, and will almost certainly be drafted if he has another good season.
Purdue
Offense - QB Caleb TerBush - This senior quarterback should beat out Robert Marve to start for the Boilermakers in 2012. A marginal dual-threat type of QB he managed to lead Purdue to 7 wins in 2011, despite not having any real playmakers in the offense alongside him. Purdue will go as he goes, and it will be interesting to see if he can lead them back to a bowl game in 2012.
Defence - DT Kawann Short - This senior defensive tackle is getting all sorts of hype about his NFL ability, and he is far and away the best player on the Purdue defence. A disruptive force from the middle, Short made 54 tackles, 17.5 for a loss and 6.5 sacks in 2011. Short should be just as good in 2012, and if you want to see a first round NFL DT in action I recommend watching a Purdue game!
Wisconsin
Offense - QB Danny O'Brien - Montee Ball is the best player on the offense, of that there is no doubt, but the key to success for Wisconsin will be having a quarterback who can keep the defence honest with perfectly executed play action passes. This means that O'Brien, should he win the job, has to come in and produce. Not to a Russell Wilson level - he broke all sorts of Badgers QB records - but to a competent level that will allow Wisconsin to do what they do best: run the ball and control the clock.
Defence - LB Chris Borland - Borland was a top performer for the Wisconsin defence in 2012. Fellow linebacker Mike Taylor may have made more tackles, but Borland produced more momentum changing plays. He finished with 143 tackles, 19 for a loss, 2.5 sacks, 2 interceptions and 5 forced fumbles, good enough for All-Big Ten first team honours as a sophomore. There shouldn't be any drop-off for the Wisconsin defence in 2012, and Taylor and Borland should be one of the best LB pairings in the country once again.
Illinois
Offense - QB Nathan Scheelhaase - The Fighting Illini's offense will go as their junior quarterback goes. The Missouri native failed to progress as much as was expected in his sophomore year, with his TD:Int ratio dropping from 17:8 to 13:8, whilst his rushing numbers decreased from his freshman year. Over the first 6 games he was responsible for 14 touchdowns and Illinois were 6-0; over the final 7 games he was responsible for just 5 touchdowns and Illinois were 1-6. Clearly he is the key to the offense and he will have little help - there are no proven running backs and AJ Jenkins, who caught 90 balls in 2011, is now in the NFL.
Defence - LB Jonathan Brown - Brown is rather unheralded and is over-shadowed on his own defense by players such as DT Akeem Spence and DE Michael Buchanan who have more name recognition, but Brown is a dynamic player in his own right. As a sophomore in 2011 Brown was a statistical machine for the Illinois defense; he racked up 100 tackles, 19.5 for loss, 6 sacks and an interception. Brown should get more coverage this year for his stellar work at linebacker, he is definitely one to watch.
Indiana
Offense - QB Tre Roberson - Roberson added a spark once he took over the starting role in 2011. It wasn't enough to actually get a win for the Hoosiers, but he definitely gave Indiana fans someone to be excited about. His dual-threat ability means teams have to account for him in both phases of the offense, though he really needs this offseason to upgrade his performance in the passing game. Roberson could be the spark the Hoosiers need to turn around from their 1-11 2011 season.
Defence - S Mark Murphy - On a very average unit safety Mark Murphy stood out in his true freshman year. Playing both safety and outside linebacker, he led the team in tackles with a total of 76 whilst also returning an interception for a touchdown. Murphy showed great promise and was named to a few All-Big Ten Freshman teams for 2011. Murphy should step up to be a leader on Indiana's struggling D in 2012. He is the son of former Green Bay Packers safety Mark Murphy.
Iowa
Offense - WR Keenan Davis - Iowa's traditionally strong running game is in transition, as such, their most valuable asset on offense right now is QB James Vandenberg. The big question is who is going to throw to without departed WR Marvin McNutt? Davis was the #2 receiver last year with 50 catches for 713 yards and 4 TDs, now he must show he can be a #1 receiver and replace McNutt's production or Iowa are going nowhere fast. At 6'3" and 215lbs Davis has the size to trouble most cornerbacks he will face. He must now prove he can be the focal point of an offense, and not just someone who benefits from better players drawing attention away from him.
Defence - S Nico Law - Law played very little in 2011, but after a great spring he is expected to become a starter at the safety position for the Hawkeyes. The reason Law has been chosen as the player to watch, despite having limited playing experience, is because of his potential to be a destroyer in the defensive backfield. He lit up his own team-mates in the spring game and flashed a physical presence that the Iowa defence was missing last year. The sophomore could be a very exciting player for the Hawkeyes, one who can change the momentum of a game with one hit.
Michigan
Offense - RB Fitzgerald Toussaint - Quarterback Denard Robinson is clearly the most important player for the Wolverines, but we all know that, so we're showcasing Michigan's starting running back. As a sophomore in 2011 Toussaint ran for 1041 yards and 9 touchdowns at 5.6 ypc. He provided a vital supporting role to Robinson in the run game and picked up five 100-yard performances over the course of the season. I expect to see the ball handed off to him just a little more this season - to take some of the pressure off Robinson's shoulders - and with it expect a decent season from an efficient back who proved towards the end of 2012 he could handle 20+ carries per game.
Defence - LB Jake Ryan - Ryan flashed excellent ability as an outside linebacker for the Wolverines in 2011. He was just a redshirt freshamn, but he compiled 37 tackles, 11 of which went for a loss, and 3 sacks. Ryan produced his biggest game in the Sugar Bowl against Virginia Tech, where he made 7 tackles, 4 for a loss, and a sack. As a sophomore, Ryan has the potential to become a key play-maker on an improving defence. He was named on the All-Big Ten Freshman team.
Michigan State
Offense - RB Le'Veon Bell - With Kirk Cousins and the top 3 receivers from Michigan State all graduating after 2011 the passing game will be a huge question in 2012. This means we will see a lot of Bell, a 6'2", 240lb beast, running the ball. He has already compiled over 1500 yards and 21TDs in his two years as a backup, and last year his elevated play pretty much forced fellow running back Edwin Baker to turn pro. Bell will be relied on whilst Andrew Maxwell gets used to be the quarterback, thus he should put up pretty decent numbers in 2012.
Defence - LB Denicos Allen - The junior may well be the best defender on what is a fairly strong Spartan defence. Allen amassed 83 tackles, 18.5 tackles for loss, and 11 sacks from the SAM 'backer spot in 2011, his first year as a starter. There are more recognisable names on this defence such as DE William Gholston, but Allen knows how to get into the backfield and make just be MSU's premier talent on this side of the ball.
Minnesota
Offense - QB MarQueis Gray - On a pretty bad team senior quarterback MarQueis Gray is the only difference-maker on offense. He is a pretty average thrower, but uses his legs to good effect - he was the top rusher for Minnesota with 966 yards and 6 touchdowns. This year he needs to be a more efficient passer, and he needs to improve without top target Da'Jon McKnight who graduated after the 2011 season. If anyone is going to do anything exciting on this poor Golden Gopher team it will be Gray, so he is Minnesota's one to watch.
Defence - DE Michael Amaefula - This sophomore is set for a break-out year at defensive end. Whilst he didn't play all that regularly as a freshman, a good spring, concluded with a spring game in which he made 2 sacks, means that this young end from Arlington, Texas could be the one to watch on a fairly average unit.
Nebraska
Offense - QB Taylor Martinez - Martinez has been much maligned as Nebraska's quarterback, despite leading the team to 19 wins as freshman and sophomore. The team will be strong on the ground, where Martinez compliments RB Rex Burkhead well, but Martinez should be throwing it a little more too, with WR Kenny Bell and TE Kyler Reed excellent, if under-utilised, targets. To get Nebraska over the hump and into a BCS Martinez's all round play must improve, and that is why he is the one to watch.
Defence - DE Cameron Meredith - On a defense devoid of any real star names after the depature of Lavonte David and Jared Crick, Meredith really needs to step up. The Cornhuskers struggled to get to the quarterback in 2011 with just 21 sacks, of which Meredith had 5. Whilst he produced a respectable 58 tackles from the end position, Meredith needs to lead the charge to the QB and the senior, originally from California, needs a big year to boost his draft stock. In most scouts eyes he is a run stopping end, but if he can get close to double-digit sacks in 2012 he might be able to change that perception.
Northwestern
Offense - QB Kain Colter - Colter is a dynamic weapon for the Wildcats. Last season he played quarterback, saw time at running back, and even played as a wide receiver at times. Colter's athleticism meant he just could not be kept off the field. In 2012 the junior will get a shot to apply his athleticism to the quarterback position like Mike Kafka and Dan Persa before him. Colter will be a dangerous dual threat to defend for opposing defences, but he must improve his passing ability - he can be rather erratic at times. Northwestern have normally had quite exciting offenses in recent times, hopefully Colter will continue this trend.
Defence - S Ibraheim Campbell - Campbell was a shining light on a defense that was pretty poor in 2011. He led the team in tackles with 100, whilst adding 2 interceptions and 4 passes broken up as a freshman starter. He was a freshman All-American for his efforts in 2011. As a sophomore he can only improve, but he must take on a leadership role in a young defensive backfield.
Ohio State
Offense - QB Braxton Miller - Miller will be the key to Urban Meyer's spread offense working how it should. Miller was limited as a true freshman, despite taking the role of starter in the middle of the season. His rushing ability is excellent - in three of his last five games he has gone over 100 yards - but his passing ability is questionable, as is shown by his poor numbers from 2011. Meyer's spread should help make the passing game easier for him though, and Miller could quickly become the premier offensive player in the conference if everything comes together.
Defence - DL John Simon - Simon is a beast on the defensive line for the Buckeyes, and is a physical freak. At 6'2", 270lbs he isn't the largest, but he is one of the most focused and intense players around. Urban Meyer referred to him as 'Tebow-ish' in his drive in the weight room and in preparation. The senior had an excellent 2011 with 53 tackles, 16 for loss and 7 sacks, he will need to keep that kind of performance up in 2012 to help the Buckeyes get back on track.
Penn State
Offense - RB Silas Redd - Redd is pretty much the only proven thing PSU have at the offensive skill positions, thus in 2012 fans will be seeing Redd, Redd, and more Redd. In this case it won't be a bad thing, either. In 2011 he produced 1241 yards and 7 TDs at 5ypc, but he tailed off towards the end of the year, most likely due to tiredness. As a junior we will only see those numbers increase, he should be a lock for 1300 and 10+ touchdowns if he doesn't get injured.
Defence - LB Gerald Hodges - This senior outside linebacker isn't a big name, but he was very productive in 2011 and should continue that trend in 2012. He made 106 tackles, 10 for a loss, with 4.5 sacks and 2 forced fumbles, a performance that gained him a place on the All-Big Ten team voted by the conference's coaches. As a converted safety he has the sideline-to-sideline range, and will almost certainly be drafted if he has another good season.
Purdue
Offense - QB Caleb TerBush - This senior quarterback should beat out Robert Marve to start for the Boilermakers in 2012. A marginal dual-threat type of QB he managed to lead Purdue to 7 wins in 2011, despite not having any real playmakers in the offense alongside him. Purdue will go as he goes, and it will be interesting to see if he can lead them back to a bowl game in 2012.
Defence - DT Kawann Short - This senior defensive tackle is getting all sorts of hype about his NFL ability, and he is far and away the best player on the Purdue defence. A disruptive force from the middle, Short made 54 tackles, 17.5 for a loss and 6.5 sacks in 2011. Short should be just as good in 2012, and if you want to see a first round NFL DT in action I recommend watching a Purdue game!
Wisconsin
Offense - QB Danny O'Brien - Montee Ball is the best player on the offense, of that there is no doubt, but the key to success for Wisconsin will be having a quarterback who can keep the defence honest with perfectly executed play action passes. This means that O'Brien, should he win the job, has to come in and produce. Not to a Russell Wilson level - he broke all sorts of Badgers QB records - but to a competent level that will allow Wisconsin to do what they do best: run the ball and control the clock.
Defence - LB Chris Borland - Borland was a top performer for the Wisconsin defence in 2012. Fellow linebacker Mike Taylor may have made more tackles, but Borland produced more momentum changing plays. He finished with 143 tackles, 19 for a loss, 2.5 sacks, 2 interceptions and 5 forced fumbles, good enough for All-Big Ten first team honours as a sophomore. There shouldn't be any drop-off for the Wisconsin defence in 2012, and Taylor and Borland should be one of the best LB pairings in the country once again.
Wednesday, 30 May 2012
Quick Slants' Top 25
Pre-season Top 25's are wonderful, yet infuriating objects. On one hand we get an idea of where teams are expected to be, on the other we see teams that are benefited, or hindered, by a pre-season ranking based on the results of the previous season and that most unpredictable possession: perceived talent. That these rankings can affect the actual season is ludicrous. Fortunately Quick Slants' Top 25 doesn't count, and thus I present to you my early pre-season Top 25:
1. USC Trojans (Pac-12) - The list of returning starters, especially on offense, is scary. QB Matt Barkley and WRs Marqise Lee and Robert Woods provide a formidable passing attack that few will be able to stop. They should win the South at a canter, and the only game that looks truly difficult is when Oregon visit - the team they will likely face in the Pac-12 Championship Game. The rushing attack needs to improve, as does the pass defense that ranked 89th nationally in 2011.
2. LSU Tigers (SEC) - This team returns a lot of players that helped them to the NC Game last year. The defense should be lights out again after finishing 2nd in total defense in 2011. The big question mark is QB Zach Mettenberger - can he aid a passing attack that scared no-one last year? Alabama and Arkansas loom large on the schedule. LSU should be 8-0 by the time they host the Crimson Tide, whilst the final week match-up with Arkansas could be key to the SEC West division crown.
3. Alabama Crimson Tide (SEC) - The Tide lost a lot of key players from their National Championship winning side, with 4 going in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft. Don't expect the drop off to be too great as Nick Saban has built a reloading juggernaut in Tuscaloosa, these guys will be in the mix at the end of 2012. Much responsibility now lies on QB AJ McCarron who needs to show the leadership and game management skills to guide his team to wins without superstar RB Trent Richardson. RBs Eddie Lacey and TJ Yeldon should slot in nicely though.
4. Oklahoma Sooners (BigXII) - I'm not convinced by the Sooners, but who on their schedule will stop them? Oklahoma State won't be the force they were in 2011, and everyone else is beatable, including newcomers TCU and West Virginia. WR Kenny Stills needs to replace Ryan Broyles' production for the offense, whilst the defense needs to replace its top two sack artists Frank Alexander and Ronnell Lewis. They should still win the Big XII with very little bother.
5. Oregon Ducks (Pac-12) - Speed, speed, and more speed. This team has it in abundance and Chip Kelly knows how to utilise it. No matter who wins the on-going QB battle, this year is all about do-everything back DeAnthony Thomas. Thomas is lethal in space and is a threat to take it the distance every time he touches the ball, I do not envy any team having to defend against him. Oregon could easily end up #1 as USC is the only tough game on their schedule, and they should win the North over Stanford.
6. Georgia Bulldogs (SEC) - The key to this season will be Aaron Murray producing like he did in 2011, whilst the running game needs to help him out. Hopefully, Isaiah Crowell will overcome the difficulties that set him back last year, if he doesn't Georgia have two stellar recruits in Keith Marshall and Todd Gurley who will battle for his spot. The defense should continue to be stellar with star LB Jarvis Jones returning, and I expect them to repeat their top 5 ranking in total defense from 2011.
7. Arkansas Razorbacks (SEC) - The Razorbacks are unlucky to be in with perennial powerhouses LSU and Alabama, but could this be their ear? Tyler Wilson shone in spring and a top senior year will see him go in the first round of the 2013 NFL Draft. With Knile Davis returning at RB, the only questions are at receiver, but Cobi Hamilton and TE Chris Gragg should be able to fill the void left by Jarius Wright and Joe Adams. The defense is what will make or break this team, it needs to improve, particularly against the run - they gave up over 2000 yards and 20TDs on the ground in 2011.
8. Michigan Wolverines (Big Ten) - If Michigan beat Alabama in the opener then they have the chance to go undefeated in 2012. Robinson will continue to be a playmaker at QB, but the passing game does need to improve. Outside of Robinson there are no real stars at the skill positions, just players who do their job well. The defense must improve, but Michigan have the game to outscore anybody, especially in the Big Ten. The Wolverines will be back in a BCS bowl this year, and it could be the National Championship game as they can beat everyone on their schedule outside of the Crimson Tide.
9. Clemson Tigers (ACC) - This is probably a bit too high for the Tigers, who always seem to slump mid-season, but that offense is scary. Tajh Boyd will be in his second year in the scheme, with top playmakers such as Andre Ellington, Sammy Watkins and DeAndre Hopkins to occupy defenses. The defense is a worry, but a small improvement could be the difference between last year and a chance to go undefeated this year.
10. West Virginia Mountaineers (BigXII) - A new conference for the Mountaineers, but they should fit right in down in the Big XII. WVU's passing game should be just as dominant in a conference that has proven it is generally pretty poor at defending the passing game. A second year in Holgorsen's scheme should mean improved output, and with Geno Smith throwing to top receivers Tavon Austin and Stedman Bailey you have to think West Virginia could be 2012's Oklahoma State.
11. South Carolina Gamecocks (SEC)
12. Virginia Tech Hokies (ACC)
13. Kansas State Wildcats (BigXII)
14. TCU Horned Frogs (BigXII)
15. Michigan State Spartans (Big Ten)
16. Stanford Cardinal (Pac-12)
17. Wisconsin Badgers (Big Ten)
18. Florida State Seminoles (ACC)
19. Louisville Cardinals (Big East)
20. Nebraska Cornhuskers (Big Ten)
21. Ohio State Buckeyes (Big Ten)
22. Oklahoma State Cowboys (BigXII)
23. Boise State Broncos (MWC)
24. Texas Longhorns (BigXII)
25. Tennessee Volunteers (SEC)
Who are your top 25 at this stage?
1. USC Trojans (Pac-12) - The list of returning starters, especially on offense, is scary. QB Matt Barkley and WRs Marqise Lee and Robert Woods provide a formidable passing attack that few will be able to stop. They should win the South at a canter, and the only game that looks truly difficult is when Oregon visit - the team they will likely face in the Pac-12 Championship Game. The rushing attack needs to improve, as does the pass defense that ranked 89th nationally in 2011.
2. LSU Tigers (SEC) - This team returns a lot of players that helped them to the NC Game last year. The defense should be lights out again after finishing 2nd in total defense in 2011. The big question mark is QB Zach Mettenberger - can he aid a passing attack that scared no-one last year? Alabama and Arkansas loom large on the schedule. LSU should be 8-0 by the time they host the Crimson Tide, whilst the final week match-up with Arkansas could be key to the SEC West division crown.
3. Alabama Crimson Tide (SEC) - The Tide lost a lot of key players from their National Championship winning side, with 4 going in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft. Don't expect the drop off to be too great as Nick Saban has built a reloading juggernaut in Tuscaloosa, these guys will be in the mix at the end of 2012. Much responsibility now lies on QB AJ McCarron who needs to show the leadership and game management skills to guide his team to wins without superstar RB Trent Richardson. RBs Eddie Lacey and TJ Yeldon should slot in nicely though.
4. Oklahoma Sooners (BigXII) - I'm not convinced by the Sooners, but who on their schedule will stop them? Oklahoma State won't be the force they were in 2011, and everyone else is beatable, including newcomers TCU and West Virginia. WR Kenny Stills needs to replace Ryan Broyles' production for the offense, whilst the defense needs to replace its top two sack artists Frank Alexander and Ronnell Lewis. They should still win the Big XII with very little bother.
5. Oregon Ducks (Pac-12) - Speed, speed, and more speed. This team has it in abundance and Chip Kelly knows how to utilise it. No matter who wins the on-going QB battle, this year is all about do-everything back DeAnthony Thomas. Thomas is lethal in space and is a threat to take it the distance every time he touches the ball, I do not envy any team having to defend against him. Oregon could easily end up #1 as USC is the only tough game on their schedule, and they should win the North over Stanford.
6. Georgia Bulldogs (SEC) - The key to this season will be Aaron Murray producing like he did in 2011, whilst the running game needs to help him out. Hopefully, Isaiah Crowell will overcome the difficulties that set him back last year, if he doesn't Georgia have two stellar recruits in Keith Marshall and Todd Gurley who will battle for his spot. The defense should continue to be stellar with star LB Jarvis Jones returning, and I expect them to repeat their top 5 ranking in total defense from 2011.
7. Arkansas Razorbacks (SEC) - The Razorbacks are unlucky to be in with perennial powerhouses LSU and Alabama, but could this be their ear? Tyler Wilson shone in spring and a top senior year will see him go in the first round of the 2013 NFL Draft. With Knile Davis returning at RB, the only questions are at receiver, but Cobi Hamilton and TE Chris Gragg should be able to fill the void left by Jarius Wright and Joe Adams. The defense is what will make or break this team, it needs to improve, particularly against the run - they gave up over 2000 yards and 20TDs on the ground in 2011.
8. Michigan Wolverines (Big Ten) - If Michigan beat Alabama in the opener then they have the chance to go undefeated in 2012. Robinson will continue to be a playmaker at QB, but the passing game does need to improve. Outside of Robinson there are no real stars at the skill positions, just players who do their job well. The defense must improve, but Michigan have the game to outscore anybody, especially in the Big Ten. The Wolverines will be back in a BCS bowl this year, and it could be the National Championship game as they can beat everyone on their schedule outside of the Crimson Tide.
9. Clemson Tigers (ACC) - This is probably a bit too high for the Tigers, who always seem to slump mid-season, but that offense is scary. Tajh Boyd will be in his second year in the scheme, with top playmakers such as Andre Ellington, Sammy Watkins and DeAndre Hopkins to occupy defenses. The defense is a worry, but a small improvement could be the difference between last year and a chance to go undefeated this year.
10. West Virginia Mountaineers (BigXII) - A new conference for the Mountaineers, but they should fit right in down in the Big XII. WVU's passing game should be just as dominant in a conference that has proven it is generally pretty poor at defending the passing game. A second year in Holgorsen's scheme should mean improved output, and with Geno Smith throwing to top receivers Tavon Austin and Stedman Bailey you have to think West Virginia could be 2012's Oklahoma State.
11. South Carolina Gamecocks (SEC)
12. Virginia Tech Hokies (ACC)
13. Kansas State Wildcats (BigXII)
14. TCU Horned Frogs (BigXII)
15. Michigan State Spartans (Big Ten)
16. Stanford Cardinal (Pac-12)
17. Wisconsin Badgers (Big Ten)
18. Florida State Seminoles (ACC)
19. Louisville Cardinals (Big East)
20. Nebraska Cornhuskers (Big Ten)
21. Ohio State Buckeyes (Big Ten)
22. Oklahoma State Cowboys (BigXII)
23. Boise State Broncos (MWC)
24. Texas Longhorns (BigXII)
25. Tennessee Volunteers (SEC)
Who are your top 25 at this stage?
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