Saturday Spotlight: Big man on campus
by Eric Loomis
The 2008 college football season is less than a day away. Today, Eric Loomis shines spotlight on the most important player for each of the 120 Division 1-A teams.
Air Force-Travis Dekker, TE, Sr.
With the departure of Chad Hall, there will be a void in the Falcons’ offense. It’s going to be on Dekker, the team’s best receiver, to step up and produce some big numbers in 2008 and be a leader on the field with both his play and attitude.
Akron-Chris Kemme, LT, Sr.
If the Zips are going to get out of the MAC basement, their offense is going to have to produce. Kemme, an All-MAC selection a year ago, is the man to lead the way.
Alabama-Julio Jones, WR, Fr.
From No. 1 recruit in the nation to No. 1 wide receiver in the course of about six months, Jones will be expected to do big things in his first year on campus. If he can live up to the hype and play to his talent level, which exceeds his years, then it could be a big year for the Crimson Tide offense.
Arizona-Willie Tuitama, QB, Sr.
Heading into 2008, Tuitama is looking to improve and finally to move past injuries that plagued his early career. After shattering school records in 2007, Tuitama is must produce more victories while improving his numbers. If he is successful, his draft stock could soar.
Arizona State-Rudy Carpenter, QB, Sr.
When an offensive line surrenders 55 sacks, it’s tough to have a good season; but Rudy Carpenter persevered through just that in 2007. With a big season in 2008, Carpenter could have his Sun Devils competing for the Pac-10 title, and he will cement his draft status as one of the best QBs in the 2009 draft.
Arkansas-Casey Dick. QB. Sr.
The coach is gone, the dynamic duo in the backfield is gone, but Casey Dick still remains for the Razorbacks. This season, it’s all on him. For Dick, it’s time to show that the program made the right choice in letting Mitch Mustain walk and putting its support in his corner.
Arkansas State-Corey Leonard, QB, Jr.
Leonard is coming off a season in which he threw for over 2,200 yards and rushed for over 500 as well. In 2008 he will certainly build on these numbers as his Red Wolves attempt to contend for a bowl game.
Army-Carson Williams, QB, Jr.
If the Black Knights of Army are to be successful in 2008, Carson Williams will be the reason. The Junior signal caller had a few bright spots in 2007, but he needs to become a more consistent passer for his offense to be productive. The good news for Williams is, there is no one else
Auburn-Sen’Derrick Marks, DT, Jr.
In the ultra-competitive SEC, Auburn is poised for a big season. Their success hands on the play of the defense. Marks is the leading returning tackler among the lineman, and the only returning starter among the group. Look for a breakout season from Marks.
Ball State-Darius Hill, TE, Sr.
If the Cardinals are to contend for the MAC title in 2008, then Hill will play a major role. Coming off a breakout junior season which saw his draft stock soar, Hill is the best player on the offense and will be expected to contribute accordingly
Baylor-Kirby Freeman, QB, Sr.
Now is the time to shine for Kirby Freeman. The Miami transfer is in his final season as a collegiate and in his final shot at living up to his high ranking as a prep superstar. The Baylor offense will go as Freeman goes.
Boise State-Ian Johnson, RB, Sr.
From the winning play in what may have been the greatest college game every played to the sideline marriage proposal, the career of Ian Johnson has been nothing short of story book. He is the Broncos best player and will be counted on tremendously in 2008 as Boise St. starts a true freshman at quarterback.
Boston College-Brian Toal, LB, Sr.
After missing all of 2007 with a shoulder injury, Brian Toal will look to bounce back in 2008. The former starter and superstar on both sides of the ball will look to regain the form he showed as a freshman and sophomore that made him one of the most feared players in the country.
Bowling Green-Diyral Briggs. DE, Sr.
The anchor of the Falcons’ defense, Briggs will be counted on in a big way this season. A first-team All-MAC selection in 2007, Briggs will look to match or surpass his numbers a season ago, which included 54 tackles and five sacks.
Buffalo-Drew Willy, QB, Sr.
Willy is the current face of the Bulls program which has been given a new life under head coach Turner Gill. When all is said and done, Willy will have been a four-year starter and will own every Bulls passing record. His success will be critical in his team’s development in 2008.
BYU-Max Hall, QB, Jr.
The next in the line of great quarterbacks from BYU, Hall has all the tools to suceed. In 2008, he will be called upon to lead a BYU passing attack that ranked 14th in the nation a season ago. If Hall can continue to improve, his team will be the favorits to win the Mountain West Conference and could make some noise in the BCS.
California-Jahvid Best, RB, So.
Being hailed by some as the next Reggie Bush, Best is an incredible playmaker. As Best continues to come into his own in 2008, he will become the primary weapon for the Golden Bears as they look to replace key pieces from the 2007 squad.
Central Michigan-Dan LeFevour, QB, Jr.
Only one quarterback in the nation put up better numbers than “The Fever” in 2007, and his name was Tim Tebow. This season, LeFevour is poised to put up even bigger numbers as he looks to lead his team to a MAC title, and he will certainly garner some conference-player-of-the-year attention — and maybe even a mention as Heisman candidate.
Cincinnati-Mike Mickens, CB, Sr.
A preseason All-American, Mickens will be the backbone of the Bearcat defense in 2008. With a good showing, he could earn some attention for post-season awards and see his draft stock rise.
Clemson-Cullen Harper, QB, Sr.
While the Tigers have the best 1-2 running back tandem in the country, it is Harder who is the heart and soul of the offense. In 2008, he will look to cement his status as the best QB in the 2009 draft while leading his team towards the ACC title and a possible BCS bowl birth.
Colorado-Cody Hawkins, QB, So.
The coach’s son showed he was a gamer last season. Hawkins showed managed the game effectively in 2007, and even showed some flashes of brilliance that illuminated his vast potential. 2008 should be a season of continued development for the Buffaloes and their young signal caller, who is their unquestioned leader.
Colorado State-Kyle Bell, RB, Sr.
Bell comes into 2008, his final season as a collegiate, looking to cap off a career that has been magnificent. While he will be sharing carries this season, Bell should reach the 1,000-yard plateau. He will remain the leader of the offense.
Connecticut-Tyler Lorenzen, QB, Sr.
Lorenzen threw for over 2,000 yards a season ago and had a touchdown-to-interception ratio of better than two-to-one. Look for a breakout year in 2008 from Lorenzen as he continues to lead the Huskies, and the program continues to grow.
Duke-Eron Riley, WR, Sr.
The perennial-doormat Blue Devils have a new coach and a new outlook heading into 2008. Unfortunately, they are still Duke. If the team is going to make strides in the right direction this season, they will need Riley, the team’s only true playmaking threat, to step up in a big way, and he may just be the man for the job.
East Carolina-Jonathan Williams, RB, So,
Replacing the nations all-purpose-yardage leader will be no easy feat for the Pirates. If anyone has a chance to step into the enormous gap left by Chris Johnson, it may be all-conference freshman Jonathon Williams. He will need to be huge in 2008.
Eastern Michigan-Daniel Hotlzclaw, LB, Sr.
Hotlzclaw is the man who makes the Eagles tick. A preseason nominee for the Lombardi award, Holtzclaw is a blue collar player who will most likely lead the team in tackles.
Florida-Tim Tebow, QB, Jr.
What else can be said about the reigning Heisman winner that hasn’t already been said a million times? He is an amazing talent. However, 2008 is a critical year for both him and his team. His talent and the talent of those around him needs to translate into victories, and Tebow must be the man to make it happen.
Florida Atlantic-Rusty Smith, QB, Jr
The reigning Sunbelt Player of the Year returns with the potential for an even stronger season, and that is scary for all of FAU’s opponents. Smith threw for over 3,600 yards last season with 32 touchdowns.
Florida International-Scott Bryant, LB, Jr.
The Golden Panthers again find themselves ranked near the bottom of the rankings of the Football Bowl Subdivision (formerly known as Division 1). The bright spot this season will be Scott Bryant who led the team in tackles a year ago. He will be counted on to anchor the defense this season.
Florida State-Myron Rolle, S, Jr.
Rolle is by far FSU’s most talented player, and this season he needs to take it up another notch. While he has showed flashes in the last two seasons, Rolle must emerge as a dominant force and consistent playmaker for the Seminole defense to be successful.
Fresno State-Tom Brandstater, QB, Sr.
Brandstater comes into 2008 as a legitimate NFL prospect and his team’s unquestioned leader. A big season is expected from the senior signal caller as he tries to lead his team to a top-25 finish.
Georgia-Knowshon Moreno, RB, So.
Moreno emerged from a pool of talented backs in 2007 and onto the national stage. While Matt Stafford continues to mature, Moreno will be counted on to shoulder even more of the load in 2008 and should contend for the NCAA rushing title.
Georgia Tech-Vance Walker, DT, Sr.
With the offense in a state of flux as new coach Paul Johnson installs his version of the option, the Yellow Jacket defense will be counted on to lead the team in 2008. Walker is a solid NFL prospect whose stock could soar with a big season. He is the unquestioned leader of the defensive unit.
Hawaii-Solomon Elimimian, MLB, Sr.
June Jones is gone. Colt Brennan is gone. This season will be one of transition for the Warriors of Hawaii, and Elimimian will be one of the team leaders and the defense’s most talented player.
Houston-Phillip Hunt, DE, Sr.
Hunt is perhaps the best defensive lineman in all of Conference USA, and this season could be a breakout year for him. The speedy edge rusher should contend for an all-conference spot while leading the Cougar defense in pursuit of another bowl bid.
Idaho-Deonte’ Jackson, RB, So.
Jackson is the Vandals’ premier offensive player. The nephew of Steve Jackson, he will again look to reach the 1,000-yard plateau. Another goal should be to get into the endzone more often: he scored seven touchdowns in 2007.
Illinois-Arrelious Benn, WR. So
Benn emerged a season ago as a true playmaker as a true freshman. This season he will continue to be the go-to receiver as the upstart Illini attempt to emerge as a consistent threat in the Big 10
Indiana-Gred Middleton, DE, Jr.
The nation’s leader in sacks in 2008, Middleton recorded 16 sacks and continues to improve. This season he will be the focal point of the Hoosier defense and will garner All-American consideration.
Iowa-Mitch King, DT, Sr.
King is a high-energy player who leads the Hawkeye defense with his attitude. An All-Big 10 performer a season ago, King will look to duplicate that honor while continuing to be the heart and soul of his defensive unit.
Iowa State-Alexander Robinson, RB, So.
The Cyclones of Iowa State find themselves in a tough spot this season trying to replace their top receiver and their starting quarterback. Robinson is the kind of player to take some of the sting away from those losses. He has the makings of a superstar despite his relative inexperience.
Kansas-Todd Reesing, QB, Jr.
The diminutive signal caller returns in 2008 trying to lead the Cinderella Jayhawks back into the national spotlight — and the BCS. It will be an uphill battle, but Reesing, the team’s unquestioned leader, is the kind of player for the job, and he has plenty of weapons around him.
Kansas State-Josh Freeman, QB, Jr.
Freeman is a player with all the talent in the world. 2008 could be the year he finally shows it on the field. As he continues to improve, his interception total will continue to drop, and his efficiency should continue to climb. Look for a breakout season from Freeman.
Kent State-Eugene Jarvis, RB, Jr.
Jarvis is a small back at only 5-foot-5 but he has the heart that coaches and scouts love to see. After rushing for nearly 1,700 yards a season ago, Jarvis is now the focal point of a Golden Flash offense that has a long ways to go.
Kentucky-Micah Johnson, MLB, Jr.
Johnson is a big and physical “mike” linebacker who will become the backbone of the Wildcat defense. The time is now for the former high school star and prized recruit to step up, and he should break out in 2008.
Louisiana Tech-Taylor Bennett, QB, Sr.
Bennett will be tasked with finding a way to put points on the board for the Bulldogs in 2008. The transfer from Georgia Tech steps in to a team with a chance to make a run at WAC title and contend for a bowl game.
Louisiana State-Tyson Jackson, DE, Sr.
With the offense expected to struggle, the Tiger defense will have to be something special for the team to contend for the SEC title in 2008. Jackson is a potential All-American candidate and is a difference maker on the line.
Louisville-Hunter Cantwell, QB, Sr.
Finally out of the shadow of Brian Brohm, Cantwell will make the 2008 season his coming out party. While looking to rebound his team from a disappointing season in 2007, Cantwell will also try to parlay his play into a first-day selection in the draft.
Marshall-Cody Slate, TE, Jr.
Slate is one of the premier pass catchers in C-USA and Marshall’s biggest offensive threat. Slate possesses tremendous speed for the position and has more than adequate hands. If he continues to improve the other facets of his game, he could blossom into a solid NFL prospect.
Maryland-Darius Heyward-Bey, WR, Jr.
Heyward-Bey is among the nation’s most explosive players, and, in 2008, he will become a household name. As the primary target in the Maryland offense, his stock should continue to rise; he could be one of the first receivers drafted if he declares.
Memphis-Duke Calhoun, WR, Jr.
Memphis boasts an incredibly talented receiving corps, and Calhoun is the cream of the crop. Look for a breakout season from him as the Tigers challenge for the conference title.
Miami-Colin McCarthy, LB, Jr.
“The U” has always boasted some great linebackers, and McCarthy appears to be the next in line. He will lead a unit that is high on talent — but short on experience — and will be expected to make some big plays.
Miami (Ohio)-Clayton Mullins, LB, Sr.
Mullins is the reigning MAC Defensive Player of the Year. This season, he will try to defend his title as he leads the conference’s best linebacker corps.
Michigan-Terrance Taylor, DT, Sr.
The Michigan offense will struggle this season as new coach Rich Rodriguez tries to find the right pieces for his scheme. The defense however, should once again be dominant, and Taylor is its leader. Taylor is a load to try and block and will be in offensive backfields all season.
Michigan State-Javon Ringer, RB, Sr.
Ringer comes into the season as the go-to guy for the Spartans. He will be counted on to carry the full load this season, and he should excel in the spotlight as the No. 1 back.
Middle Tennessee-Alex Suber, CB, Jr
Suber is a star in the making for the Blue Raiders. He comes into the 2008 season as the defense’s best player and top returning tackler.
Minnesota-Willie VanDeSteeg, DE, Sr.
Last season was forgettable one for the Golden Gophers. To get back to respectability, improvements need to be made all over the field, especially the pass rush, which is where VanDeSteeg comes in. Fully healthy coming into the season, he will be counted on to make his way to the quarterback early and often in 2008.
Mississippi State-Wesley Carroll, QB, So.
Carroll was forced into action a year ago due to injury and took control despite having no experience. He finished with a 5-3 record, including a bowl victory. This season Carroll will be the focus of the offense, and the team will go as far as he can carry them on his shoulders.
Missouri-Chase Daniel, QB, Sr.
Missouri came from nowhere a season ago to become conference title contenders and their charismatic QB was one of the main reasons why. Now they are a top-10 team, and Daniel is poised to have a season which will make him a Heisman favorite.
Navy-Kaipo-Noa Kaheaku-Enhada, QB, Sr.
Even though Paul Johnson is gone, the triple option remains, and Kaipo is the perfect man to run it. Coming into his final season, he has the complicated scheme down and will continue to be the team’s star player.
Nebraska-Marlon Lucky, RB, Sr.
Lucky returns as the reigning Big 12 rushing champion (1,019 yards last season). He also set a school record with 75 receptions and 700 yards receiving. This season Lucky will look to build on his all-purpose yardage total while climbing up draft boards. He is perhaps the best all-around back in his class.
Nevada-Luke Lippincott, RB, Sr.
Nevada led the WAC in rushing in 2007, and Lippincott was the major force behind that performance. Another conference-leading performance this season will help the team on its journey for a conference title.
New Mexico-Donovan Porterie, QB, Jr.
Porterie has a tremendous 12-6 record as a starter in his career and will look to improve upon that in 2008. That should not be a problem: he passed for over 3,000 yards a season ago.
New Mexico State-Chase Holbrook, QB, Sr.
Holbrook has the tools that make scouts drool. This is his last chance to put it all together and show that he is a true blue-chip NFL prospect. He passed for nearly 4,000 yards a season ago, and, this season, that number could rise if he stays healthy,
North Carolina-Hakeem Nicks, WR, Jr.
Butch Davis is putting together a good program at UNC. Nicks is the team’s top pass-catcher and is a great playmaker with the ball in his hands. He should improve on his school-record 74 catches from a season ago.
North Carolina State-Willie Young, DE, Jr.
Young is a true playmaker along the defensive line. A natural pass rush specialist, a big season from Young will go a long way to improving the Wolfpack record and could get Young some comparisons to some former NC State greats.
North Texas-Casey Fitzgerald, WR, Sr.
Fitzgerald is the Mean Green’s top pass catcher, and he proved that a season ago by breaking Sun Belt receiving records left and right. This season he will continue to benefit from the Mean Green’s wide open offense en route to some gaudy numbers.
Northern Illinois-Larry English, DE, Sr.
English returns hoping to improve upon his MAC-leading 10.5 sacks from a season ago. He will be the centerpiece of the defense and may have to fight through consistent double teams.
Northwestern-Tyrell Sutton, RB, Sr.
If healthy, Sutton is one of the best rushers in the conference. He needs to regain the form that allowed him to put up two 1,000-yard season as he leads the Wildcat offensive attack.
Notre Dame-David Bruton FS, Sr.
Bruton comes into the 2008 season after a breakout campaign in 2007. He is the Fighting Irish’s best player and will be the quarterback of a defense that must improve if the team is to rebound from a 3-9 showing.
Ohio-Jameson Hartke, DE, Sr.
Hartke returns in 2008 after a performance in 2007 that saw him earn All-MAC honors. This season should be even better for Hartke as the Ohio defense has more talent.
Ohio State-Chris “Beanie” Wells, RB, Jr.
Wells is poised for a huge season in 2008. After bursting on to the scene in 2007 with big-time performances against Michigan and against LSU in the national title game, Wells should begin to build some Heisman buzz as he spearheads the Buckeye charge.
Oklahoma-Sam Bradford, QB, So.
Bradford had a huge freshman season, leading the nation in passing efficiency and setting a freshman-record with 36 touchdown passes. This season he will look to build on those numbers as he tries to lead the Sooners to another Big 12 title.
Oklahoma State-QB Zac Robinson, QB, Jr.
Robinson emerged from the mess that was the Cowboys quarterback situation last season to become the full-time starter. He accounted for more then 3,600 yards of total offense, and those numbers will improve with a full season of experience under cetner.
Ole Miss-Michael Oher, LT, Sr.
Oher enters the season as the No. 1 rated prospect for the 2009 NFL draft — and for good reason. The all-world talent will look to keep his place at the top of draft boards while paving the way for the Rebels offense.
Oregon-Patrick Chung, ROV, Sr.
Chung is a rare talent in that he is a big-play producer in the secondary and is also a force in run defense. This season he will continue to quarterback the Oregon defense as he looks to raise his draft stock.
Oregon State-Sammie Stroughter, WR, Sr.
Stroughter returns on a medical red shirt for 2008 and will look to regain his pre-injury form. In 2006, he notched 74 catches for over 1,200 yards. A return to that level will be a big boost for the Beaver offense.
Penn State-Maurice Evans, DE, Sr.
Injuries and suspensions hit the Nittany Lion defense hard before the season even began. The pressure to make up for the losses is now on Evans. He will be counted upon to produce a pass rush and lead a defense that must be a force if Penn State is going to make noise in the Big 10.
Pittsburgh-LeSean McCoy, RB, So.
McCoy burst onto the scene in 2007 with 1,328 yards on the ground. This season the Big East Freshman of the Year will look to build upon his great freshman year and lead the resurgent Panthers as they go after the Big East crown.
Purdue-Curtis Painter, QB, Sr.
Viewed by some scouts as the top quarterback in the 2009 draft class, Painter has big expectations to uphold. He will likely own every Purdue passing record when he graduates and should have no trouble putting up more gaudy stats in Purdue’s “Basketball on Grass” offense.
Rice-Jarrett Dillard, WR, Sr.
The Rice Owls have emerged as many experts’ “dark horse” pick to appear in a bowl game this season, and Dillard is the main reason behind that. An All-American performer a season ago, Dillard is the focal point of a prolific passing game that will determine how successful the Owls can really be.
Rutgers-Tyquan Underwood, WR, Sr.
Underwood had previously been lost in the shuffle of other great offensive players for the Scarlet Knights, but this season it’s all on him. Underwood is poised to emerge as one of the top receivers in the Big East.
San Diego State-Corey Boudreaux, FS, Sr.
Boudreaux returns after being awarded a sixth year of eligibility by the NCAA. He is a hard hitter and will be counted on to be the premier defensive playmaker on a defense that may struggle in 2008.
San Jose State-Jeff Schweiger, DE, Sr.
Schweiger arrives as a transfer from USC with high expectations. The former High School All-American now has a chance to play and be the man along the line. Whether or not he can live up to the billing will go a long way in determining the Spartans success.
SMU-Justin Smart, MLB, So.
Smart is the premier defensive player for the Mustangs and will be counted on to produce many tackles now that he has been moved to the middle. After earning Freshman All-Conference honors a year ago, the question remains: “what can he do for an encore?”.
South Carolina-Jasper Brinkley, MLB, Sr.
A massive and intimidating force up the middle, Brinkley will be the heart of the Gamecock defense. With a good season, he could earn All-SEC honors and see his draft stock rise up quickly with his rare blend of size and speed.
South Florida-George Selvie, DE, Jr.
Selvie emerged a season ago as one of the premier players for the upstart Bulls. After being named a first-team All-American with 14.5 sacks and 31.5 tackles for a loss, the sky is the limit this season for one of the nation’s top ends.
Southern Miss-Damion Fletcher, RB, Jr.
Fletcher enters this season to add to his voluminous career rushing totals, which include nearly 3,000 yards over the past 2 seasons. The Southern Miss offense will go as Fletcher goes, and he should not disappoint.
Stanford-Clinton Snyder, LB, Jr.
Snyder is the leader of the Cardinal defense. He will once again be among the Pac-10 leaders in tackles as he plays sideline to sideline.
Syracuse-Mike Williams, WR, Jr.
Williams is the only playmaking threat for the Orange. He hopes to improve on his 60 catches from a season ago and cement his place as the best Syracuse receiver since Marvin Harrison.
TCU-Jason Phillips, MLB, Sr.
Phillips is a tacking machine for the Horned Frogs of TCU. He is a heady player who is tough as nails and will bring it every week. He will be counted on to lead the defense as his team makes a run for the Mountain West title.
Temple-Terrance Knighton, DT, Sr.
The Owls of Temple led the MAC in total defense a season ago, and Kighton is one of the main reasons why. He will be the leader of a defense this season that will have to carry the team to a bowl bid.
Tennessee-Eric Berry, SS, So.
Berry went from Prep All-American to superstar a season ago. Racking up 86 tackles and five picks as a freshman, Berry can only improve from a season ago as a critical part if a defense that will need to be a shut-down force in 2008
Texas-Colt McCoy, QB, Jr.
Initially McCoy had no problem stepping out from Vince Young’s massive shadow, but a season ago he struggled mightily, throwing 18 picks to go with his 22 touchdowns. He must return to his freshman form for the Longhorns to compete for a national title this year.
Texas A&M-Stephen McGee, QB, Sr.
McGee may be poised for a breakout season in 2008 under new coach Mike Sherman. He will get to show off the passing skills that made him so highly sought-after coming out of high school, and his success will determine the Aggies’ fate.
Texas Tech-Michael Crabtree, WR, So.
One of the most electric and exciting players in all of college football, Crabtree burst onto the scene last season. Look for the reigning Biletnikoff Award winner to improve as he cements his place as the premier pass-catcher in all the land.
Toledo-Stephen Williams, WR, Jr.
Williams is a big time playmaker with great speed and hands. A big season is expected from the junior, and with one, he should earn some All-MAC attention
Troy-Boris Lee, MLB, Jr.
Lee was a pleasant surprise for Troy a season ago. He led the team in tackles and earned All-Sunbelt honors. Another big season is expected as the unquestioned leader of the unit.
Tulane-Andre Anderson, RB, Jr.
Replacing former standout Matt Forte will be no small task. A group of backs will look to take on the task, but Anderson is the best of the bunch.
Tulsa-Brennan Marion, WR, Sr.
Marion returns to lead the receiving corps for the Golden Hurricane in 2008. Last season he set an NCAA record with a 31.9 yard per-catch average. This season that number may come down, but Marion’s catch total should rise.
UAB-Will Dunbar, FS, Sr.
Dunbar comes into 2008 fully healthy after battling through injuries a season ago. The leading tackler in C-USA, Dunbar will be counted upon to quarterback the defense in 2008.
UCLA-Alterraun Verner, CB, Jr.
With injuries and question marks all over the offensive side of the ball, the defense will again be counted on to lead the Bruins in 2008, and Verner is its premier player. The team needs him to be a playmaker in the secondary.
UCF-Joe Burnett, CB, Sr.
Burnett is the unquestioned leader and superstar defender for UCF. Big things are expected of him in 2008 as he makes a run at All-American honors and tries to cement his status as a sure-fire first-rounder.
UL Lafayette-Tyrell Fenroy, RB, Sr,
Fenroy is a bull of a running back, but he missed some time last season. He became the first Ragin’ Cajun ever to rush for 1,000 yards a season ago, and he’ll likely become the second this season.
UL Monroe-Kinsmon Lancaster, QB, Sr.
Lancaster accounted for over 2,000 yards of total offense a season ago and is the heart of the Warhawks offense. He needs to cut down on his turnovesr in 2008, and if he does, he could be poised for a very good senior campaign.
UNLV-Frank Summers, RB, Sr.
Frank “The Tank” Summers is the fuel that makes the offensive attack go. A 5-foot-10, 240-pound mauler, Summers is a load to bring down.
USC-Rey Maualuga, MLB, Sr.
Maualuga is the leader of a dominant Trojan defense that has tremendous talent. His rare blend of speed and strength make him a blue-chip NFL prospect, and he will garner All-American attention in 2008 as he looks to lead the Trojans back to the National Title game.
Utah-Darrell Mack, , RB, Sr.
Mack rushed for just over 1,200 yards in 2007, and he will look to improve upon that in 2008. He will be the key to the Utes offense.
Utah State-Jake Hutton, MLB, Sr.
Hutton, the anchor of the defense, recorded 102 tackles a season ago. The second-team All-WAC linebacker will be a four-year starter for the Aggies.
UTEP-Trevor Vittatoe, QB, So.
Vittatoe was ranked second among freshman in passing in the nation last year as his offense set several program records. He should improve in 2008 as his game continues to mature.
Vanderbilt-DJ Moore, CB, Jr.
Moore is the superstar of his Vanderbilt team. He earned first-team All-SEC honors a season ago and should improve even further with more experience.
Virginia-Eugene Monroe, LT, Sr.
Monroe is a the anchor of a line that must make up for the loss of first-round pick Brandon Albert. The offense is missing some key pieces due to suspensions, so the line must play well behind the leadership of Monroe. If it doesn’t, Virginia won’t be in the ACC title picture.
Virginia Tech-Victor “Macho” Harris, CB, Sr.
Harris will be asked to become a shutdown corner in 2008 as he replaces Brandon Flowers, who bolted for the NFL draft. A tremendous athlete, Harris could watch his own draft stock rise with a good season shutting down the ACC’s best.
Wake Forest-Alphonso Smith, CB, Sr.
Smith is a superstar set to breakout on the national stage in 2008. He set a school record with eight interceptions in 2007. While that will be a tough number to match, Smith will see his draft stock continue to rise if he performs at the same level.
Washington-Jake Locker, QB, So.
Locker is an electric player with the ability to burn a defense with his arms and his feet. He will be the sole focus of the offense this season, and, if he is able to stay healthy — and that is a big if — he will put up some huge numbers.
Washington State-Brandon Gibson, WR, Sr.
Gibson returns to the Cougars after deferring the NFL Draft for his senior season. If he continues to perform at an All-American level, he could be drafted much higher next April than he would have been this past one.
West Virginia-Pat White, QB, Sr.
Rich Rodriguez is gone, and so is White’s running mate, Steve Slaton. White will now be shouldering a bigger portion of the load, but he has the talent to handle it. He is the team’s unquestioned leader, and, if he has the season he is capable of, he will be a part of the Heisman discussion.
Western Kentucky-K.J. Black, QB, So.
Black will be charged with leading the newest Football Bowl Subdivision team in 2008. He is a solid dual thread QB, but he lacks experience, and his team will be behind the eight ball all season.
Western Michigan-Jamarko Simmons, WR, Sr.
Simmons is the Broncos’ most dependable receiver. He lead the team with 84 catches in 2007 and will be the leader of the receiving corps in 2008.
Wisconsin-Travis Beckum, TE, Sr.
Beckum is the premier pass-catching tight end in all of college football. He will put his talents on display once again in 2008 as he cements his draft status and racks up post-season awards along the way. He is a special talent.
Wyoming-John Fletcher, DT, John Fletcher, Sr.
Fletcher led the Cowboys defensive line with 10.5 sacks in 2007. This season he will be counted on to continue to get pressure on the quarterback and stuff the run. He will be the leader of the Wyoming defense.