2009 NCAA Football Thread: Revenge of the Computer Polls

[rdh007]

Meeeeeeeechigan gets a #7 recruiting class (rivals.com) after a 3-9 season? I'm happy. What tempers that is a #15 recruiting class for little brother.

 

[Mister J]

I'm hoping Forcier can come in and trigger Rodriguez's offense as well as expected. You're never going to effectively run the Spread without a proper QB.

 

[rdh007]

Agreed. It's the only hope.

Though you could see at the end of the year, especially during the MSU game, where a guy with any amount of athleticism could be a game changer in that offense. The problem was, they had two QB's: Mallet's intended backup who was just like him, and a walk-on.

 

[LegendaryCaleb]

im happy with a #15 recruiting class


*pressed 6 instead of 5

 

[Immortalfire]

Rivals.com Top 25 recruiting classes

1. Alabama
2. LSU
3. USC
4. Ohio State
5. Texas
6. Florida State
7. Michigan
8. North Carolina
9. Georgia
10. Florida
11. Miami
12. South Carolina
13. Oklahoma
14. Arkansas
15. Michigan State
16. UCLA
17. Ole Miss
18. Auburn
19. Stanford
20. Notre Dame
21. Texas A & M
22. Mississippi State
23. Tennessee
24. Virginia Tech
25. Penn State

 

[Immortalfire]

Lane Kiffin is already in trouble...http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/news?slug=ap-tennessee-kiffin&prov=ap&type=lgns

 

[RAMORE]

That is just gonna fire up the gators I will be watching when they meet in September

 

[Mister J]

ESPN Top 25 Recruiting Classes
...posted because Miami and Michigan rank higher than on the Rivals poll.

In a day that saw plenty of big surprises, LSU made sure there wasn't an upset at the top of the Scouts Inc. class rankings. Les Miles and the Tigers signed 10 ESPNU 150 prospects, including several players ranked at the top of their position.

That's not to say a few teams didn't try to make it interesting. Alabama made a late run with seven ESPNU 150 players, including three players who were No. 1 at their positions. It was that kind of day for the SEC, which features four teams in the top 6 and 10 teams in the Top 25.

Fans, please remember that rankings mean nothing now, but two to three years from now is when you will know a class' value. Just remember it was the Class of 2006 that landed Urban Meyer and Florida Tim Tebow and Percy Harvin, among others, who just led the Gators to their second national title in three years.

1. Alabama
2. LSU
3. Texas
4. Southern Cal
5. Florida
6. Georgia
7. Miami
8. Florida State
9. Ohio State
10. Michigan
11. Oklahoma
12. South Carolina
13. North Carolina
14. Notre Dame
15. Tennessee
16. Penn State
17. UCLA
18. Virginia Tech
19. Clemson
20. Arkansas
21. Rutgers
22. Ole Miss
23. Mississippi State
24. South Florida
25. Auburn

Spoiler

1. LSU

LSU went into signing day with the country's top recruiting class and held onto to it with a strong finish. The Tigers had a big day, inking raw but very talented defensive end Sam Montgomery (Greenwood, S.C.) and ESPN's No. 1 receiver Rueben Randle (Bastrop, La.). The Tigers signed 10 ESPNU 150 prospects and addressed areas of need with speed and athleticism. They raided the state of Texas for some of the better prospects in the country, including ESPN's top-rated safety Craig Loston (Aldine, Texas/Eisenhower) and No. 1 athlete Russell Shepard (Houston/Cy-Ridge). Shepard eventually could be the answer at quarterback thanks to his electrifying dual-threat skills, but he could be employed first at any number of skill positions. Joshua Downs (Bastrop, La.), the No. 4 DT in the country, leads the Tigers' in-state recruits. He could develop into a disruptive force in Baton Rouge, and defensive line was a position that needed to be addressed by the Tigers. He's joined by DT Chris Davenport (Mansfield, La.) and ESPNU 150 RB Michael Ford (Leesville, La.), who will be a legit high-carry back for LSU. CB Janzen Jackson (Lake Charles, La./Barbe) is expected to sign with the Tigers and that will make an already impressive class even better.

2. Alabama

Alabama signed an elite class in 2008 and 2009 was just as good, if not a little better. The Crimson Tide signed nine players from the ESPNU 150, up from seven from last year's third-ranked class. Premier corner Dre Kirkpatrick, (Gadsden, Ala.), teammate WR Kendall Kelly (Gadsden, Ala.) and top 10 OLB Tana Patrick (Stevenson, Ala./North Jackson) headline the class. Kirkpatrick gives the Tide three No. 1 positional prospects, joining RB Trent Richardson (Pensacola, Fla./Escambia) and OT D.J. Fluker (Foley, Ala.). Richardson was a significant pickup with the loss of Glenn Coffee to the NFL and should immediately challenge RB Mark Ingram for reps. He has a supreme blend of size, speed and power as a downhill back. The massive Fluker could be inserted into Andre Smith's left tackle spot. Alabama also signed ESPN's No. 4 quarterback prospect A.J. McCarron (Mobile, Ala./Saint Paul's Episcopal) to add depth to the position with the graduation of John Parker Wilson. The defense also got a much-needed boost in the middle of their 3-4 defense with top 5 inside 'backers Nico Johnson (Andalusia, Ala.) and Petey Smith (Seffner, Fla./Armwood). The overall top-to-bottom quality in this class is very impressive.

3. Texas

Texas did not have a flashy signing day, but it was a good one. The Longhorns just continue to reload and did a great job filling their needs at offensive line and running back. They got after it early with this class and, as usual, stayed at home and signed just a handful of prospects outside of the state. No. 1 center Mason Walters (Wolfforth, Texas/Frenship) and No. 2 offensive tackle Paden Kelley (Austin, Texas/Lake Travis) headline a talented group of offensive line prospects. Overall, this class has nine top-10 positional prospects, including major offensive firepower with ESPN's No. 2 quarterback Garrett Gilbert (Austin, Texas/Lake Travis), well-rounded tight end Barrett Matthews (Houston/North Shore) and 6-foot-3 running back Chris Whaley (Madisonville, Texas). Of all the prospects in this group, Gilbert has the talent to be a special player in Austin and help the Longhorns continue being an annual national title contender. Adding talented youth on the defensive perimeter was important and Texas has a great one in top 10 corner Marcus Davis (League City, Texas/Clear Creek).

4. USC

It's no surprise to see the Trojans near the top of the final recruiting rankings as they have consistently recruited well under coach Pete Carroll. The Trojans did lose a few prospects on signing day in ESPNU 150 receiver Alshon Jeffrey (Saint Matthews, S.C/Calhoun County) and No. 1 ILB Vontaze Burfict (Corona, Calif./Centennial), but landing No. 3 OLB Frankie Telfort (Miami/Gulliver) and No. 1 DE Devon Kennard (Chandler, Ariz./Desert Vista) softens the blow. Getting back No. 4 athlete Byron Moore Jr. (Harbor City, Calif./Narbonne) on signing day also had to bring smiles to the Trojans' staff. USC boasts an impressive nine ESPNU 150 prospects and started off strong with ESPN's No 1 overall player, QB Matt Barkley (Santa Ana, Calif./Mater Dei), committing over a year ago. The class includes three players who rank No. 1 at their positions -- including guard John Martinez (Salt Lake City, Utah/Cottonwood) -- as well as three more players who rank within the top five at their respective positions. And while safety T.J. McDonald (Fresno, Calif./Edison) and offensive tackle Kevin Graf (Agoura, Calif.) are USC legacies (their dads played for the Trojans), that's not the reason they were signed. McDonald is the 10th-rated safety and Graf is the fourth-ranked OT in the country.

5. Florida

With half of their class residing in the ESPNU 150, the Gators are capitalizing on their second national title in three years. Florida enjoyed a big signing day with the pickup of No. 2 OLB Jelani Jenkins (Wheaton, Md./Good Counsel). However, the defection of our No. 2-rated CB Greg Reid (Valdosta, Ga./Lowndes) down the stretch to rival Florida State still stings in Gainesville. The addition of WR Andre Debose (Sanford, Fla./Seminole) couldn't come at a better time as Percy Harvin is heading for the NFL, and DeBose is Harvin-like in his speed and versatility. The Gators added impact defensive players in Gary Brown (Quincy, Fla./West Gadsden), who is quietly one of the best DTs in the country, and top-10 linebacker Jon Bostic (Wellington, Fla./Palm Beach Central) could eventually replace some of Brandon Spikes production in the middle. And don't forget about ESPN's No. 2 safety in 2008 Dee Finley (Auburn, Ala./Milford Academy), who officially joined this class after a year in prep school. Speedy athlete Josh Evans (Irvington, N.J.), who could eventually play defensive back, was also a nice pickup on signing day.

6. Georgia

Georgia had a big signing day by landing No. 3 WR Marlon Brown (Memphis, Tenn./Harding) and doing a great job of filling needs in this class. The Bulldogs have the daunting task of replacing QB Matthew Stafford and RB Knowshon Moreno, but landed one of more prolific runners in Georgia history with 2009 RB Washaun Ealey (Twin City, Ga./Emanuel County) and signed Aaron Murray (Tampa, Fla./Plant) and Zach Mettenberger (Watkinsville, Ga./Oconee County), the Nos. 3 and 9 rated quarterbacks, respectively. Murray's the better athlete and gunslinger, while Mettenberger will remind Georgia fans of David Greene with a stronger arm. The Bulldogs also signed help upfront with No. 5 OT Austin Long (Memphis, Tenn./Briarcrest Christian) and No. 2 OG Chris Burnette (La Grange, Ga./Troup Comprehensive). On the other side of the ball, ESPN 150 CB Branden Smith (Atlanta, Ga./Booker T. Washington) will help make up for the loss of Asher Allen to the NFL.

7. Miami

Miami had a quiet signing day but still signed another top 10 class to add to last year's No. 1 overall class. Randy Shannon & Co. have been able to lure championship-caliber defensive talent to South Florida and their most recent addition, S Ray Ray Armstrong (Sanford, Fla./Seminole), could be another Kenny Phillips. While it's still important for the Canes to sign RB Bryce Brown (Wichita, Kan./East) after signing day, we feel both Lamar Miller (Miami/Killian) and Mike James (Davenport, Fla./Ridge Community) combine for similar attributes. We thought Miami needed to focus on the cornerback position in this class and it did just that, signing No. 5 corner Prince Kent (Norcross, Ga.) and sleeper athlete Jamal Reid (Mayo, Fla./Lafayette). Getting versatile DE/TE Billy Sanders (Coeur D'Alene, Idaho/lake City) back on signing day will add great depth to both sides of the ball.

8. Florida State

It's no surprise coach Bobby Bowden closed strong and signed a top 10 class. He's been doing it for years and this year's late run was highlighted by his ability to snag No. 2 corner Greg Reid (Valdosta, Ga/Lowndes) from Florida. The Seminoles signed four prospects in the ESPNU 150 and eight who rank in the top-20 at their respective positions. FSU has reloaded on defense in this class, especially along the defensive front. Under Armour All-American Jacobbi McDaniel (Greenville, Fla./Madison County) is the nation's fifth-rated prospect, and the No. 1-rated defensive tackle. With sack artist Everette Brown bolting for the NFL, the addition of explosive DE Demonte McAllister (Tampa, Fla./Alonso) is also big. Top 10 safety Gerald Demps adds versatility and talent at safety, which was needed. The class also features some tall receiving targets, including 6-foot-6 Rodney Smith (Miami/Archbishop Carroll), a top-20 receiver prospect, and Willie Downs (Tallahassee, Fla./Godby). who may make the move to safety. Don't underestimate the importance of special teams as the Seminoles signed Dustin Hopkins (Houston/Clear Lake), ESPN's top kicker.

9. Ohio State

The Buckeyes did a good job of retaining most of the state's top players as well as landing a few key out of state prospects. Landing the explosive Jaamal Berry (Miami/Palmetto) out of Florida, the No. 3-rated running back, softened the blow of Chris "Beanie" Wells leaving early for the NFL. And signing three top-30 linebacker prospects, highlighted by Dorian Bell (Monroeville, Pa./Gateway), the No. 4-rated outside linebacker who can run and hit as well any backer in this class, helps ease the pain of losing Ohio State is also losing LBs James Laurinaitis and Marcus Freeman. The Buckeyes signed several good receivers, including ESPNU 150 prospect Duron Carter (Ft Lauderdale, Fla./St. Thomas Aquinas). Ohio State has a solid class that filled up quickly, but we do the question the future impact of some of OSU's lower signees. The loss of athlete Justin Green (Louisville, Ky./Louisville Male) to Illinois was significant as well.

10. Michigan

Despite having a disappointing first year under Rich Rodriguez, fans have to be pleased with Michigan's successful signing day. The Wolverines got their much-need second quarterback in Denard Robinson (Deerfield Beach, Fla.), who is a difference-maker with the ball in his hands and has deceptively good passing skills. They were also able to sign QB Tate Forcier (San Diego/Scripps Ranch). Snagging top-10 receiver Je'Ron Stokes (Philadelphia/Northeast) from Tennessee was also huge and increases their overall speed. Michigan also signed some prospects with great upside including DE Anthony LaLota (Princeton, N.J./The Hun School) and OT Taylor Lewan (Scottsdale, Ariz./Chaparral). LaLota is still fairly new to the game of football, but has the tools to be a good college defensive end, while Lewan has a great frame and wonderful potential. The addition of No. 6 guard Quinton Washington (Saint Stephen, S.C./Timberland) will also improve their line upfront. The Wolverines' defense will also get a boost from disruptive edge rusher Craig Roh (Scottsdale, Ariz./Chaparral) and 6-foot-1 safety Isaiah Bell (Youngstown, Ohio/Liberty).

 

[Mister J]

11-25

Spoiler

11. Oklahoma

No significant news out of Norman on signing day. It was just business as usual for the Sooners as they signed a top 10 class. This class should make defensive coordinator Brent Venables smile as it's loaded on his side of the ball with their top six prospects all defensive players . Interior additions Jamarkus McFarland (Lufkin, Texas), the sixth-ranked DT, and fellow top 10 defensive lineman Justin Chaisson (Las Vegas/Bishop Gorman) and safeties Kevin Brent (Dallas/South Oak Cliff) and Gabe Lynn (Jenks, Okla.) bolsters OU's defensive class. The linebacker group of Tom Wort (New Braunfels, Texas), Ronnell Lewis (Dewar, Okla.), Gus Jones (Wagoner, Okla.) and Jaydan Bird (Conway Springs, Kan.) is one of the better units in the country. Lewis could be this year's biggest sleeper as the athletic linebacker's background is 8-on-8 football. There was some bad news as losing receiver Eric Ward (Rider, Texas) down the stretch to Texas Tech definitely still stings -- wideout was a position of need for the Sooners -- but it's still an impressive haul.

12. South Carolina

Landing in-state ESPNU 150 wide receiver Alshon Jeffrey (Saint Matthews, S.C./Calhoun County) from USC was a major coup for the Game***** and one of the biggest surprises on signing day. South Carolina also bolstered its receiving corps by signing 6-foot-3 WR Lamar Scruggs (Neptune Beach, Fla./Fletcher), who will form a nice tandem with Jeffrey. Explosive RB Jarvis Giles (Tampa, Fla./Gaither) was another big addition, but the Game***** failed to land a top-tier quarterback, which we thought was necessary. However, Steve Spurrier did manage to bring in one of the best defensive backs groups the SEC has seen in recent years. Safeties Stephon Gilmore (Rock Hill, S.C./South Pointe), Devonte Holloman (Rock Hill, S.C./South Pointe), Damario Jeffery (Columbia, S.C.), Chris Payne (Columbia, S.C.) and D.J. Swearinger (Greenwood, S.C.), who are all within the top 15 at the position and Gilmore, Holloman and Jeffery are in the top 6. But don't be surprised if Holloman, Jeffery and Payne could switch to OLB.

13. North Carolina

North Carolina bounced back strong on the recruiting trail from a year ago as Butch Davis continues to turn around the Tar Heels' once-struggling program. Based on this class, their quarterback play should be productive and consistent for years to come due to the signings of QB Bryn Renner (Lorton, Va./West Springfield) and ATH Donavan Tate (Cartersville, Ga.). Renner is an underpublicized prospect, but he's a terrific athlete who could easily become a dual-threat player for Davis. Tate would also give the Tar Heels quarterback position a boost, if he decides to play football, because he also a highly-touted baseball prospect. Whoever is under center, will have WR Jheranie Boyd (Gastonia, N.C./Ashbrook), who is UNC's highest-rated prospect, to throw to. He will certainly help fill the void left by WR Hakeem Nicks, who is opting for the NFL. The Tar Heels also landed top 10 DE Donte Moss (Jacksonville, N.C./Hillside).

14. Notre Dame

The rivalry between Notre Dame and USC got a little hotter as the Fighting Irish lured away two top recruits, No. 1 OLB prospect Manti Te'o (Honolulu/Punahou) and No. 4 WR prospect Shaquelle Evans (Inglewood, Calif./Inglewood). Te'o should make an immediate impact due to his size, speed and often-underrated instincts, while Evans is a difference-maker at receiver and in the return game. These are off-the-field victories over USC, which might lead to some wins down the road over the Trojans. Aside from Te'o and Evans, the Irish boast two other top-five positional prospects in DT Tyler Stockton (Princeton, N.J./The Hun School) and OG Chris Watt (Glen Ellyn, Ill./Glenbard West). Stockton, the No. 3 DT, might lack ideal size, but is extremely quick off the ball and good against the run or pass. Stockton, Watt and versatile S Zeke Motta (Vero Beach, Fla.) filled positions of need in South Bend, but ESPNU 150 ATHs Cierre Wood (Oxnard, Calif./Santa Clara) and E.J. Banks (McKees Rocks, Pa./Montour) could be key to this class due to their potential.

15. Tennessee

Tennessee had its ups and downs the past, but new coach Lane Kiffin weathered the storm and signed a strong class, despite not signing a quarterback. Kiffin and his veteran recruiting staff had a successful signing day, which featured No. 13 WR Nu'Keese Richardson (Pahokee, Fla.), No. 5 safety Darren Myles (Atlanta/Carver) and No. 12 OLB Jerod Askew (Chesapeake, Va./Oscar Frommel Smith). Askew is very explosive and could see the field early. However, the decommitment of RB David Oku (Midwest City, Okla./Carl Albert), the loss of No.8 WR Je'Ron Stokes (Philadelphia/North East) to Michigan and failing to sign in-state WR Marlon Brown (Memphis, Tenn./Harding Academy) will sting. But, we feel the Vols will be near the top of next year's recruiting class after having a full recruiting season under their belt.

16. Penn State

Joe Paterno has taken a lot of heat for his age, but continues to prove he can win and recruit as reflected in this top 15 class. Penn State didn't make a lot of significant noise on signing day, but the addition of top 25 WR Justin Brown (Wilmington, DE/Concord) was huge. He brings great size (6-foot-3) to a position in need of some talented youth. WR Shawney Kersey (Woodbury, N.J.) was also a solid pickup down the stretch, but we thought PSU could have done better to help compensate for the loss of their three key playmakers. Paterno hopes he found Daryll Clark's successor in Kevin Newsome (Hargrave Military Academy), especially now that Pat Devlin transferred. The Nittany Lions' incoming class also features some talented offensive linemen, including two top-25 tackle prospects in Eric Shrive (Scranton, Pa./West Scranton) and Mark Arcidiacono (Philadelphia/St. Joseph's Prep) and the No. 5-rated center in Ty Howle (Bunn, N.C.). The defense and special teams also needed to be replenished because several upperclassmen are manning the secondary and accomplished kicker Kevin Kelly moved on. Which is why No. 6 corner Darrell Givens (Indian Head, Md./Lackey) and No. 2 kicker Anthony Fera (Houston/Saint Pius X) were crucial signings.

17. UCLA

Most of the recruiting spotlight in the city of Los Angeles is usually focused on USC, but that could be changing quickly judging by this class and the way it closed. The Bruins had a successful signing day, particularly upfront on the offensive line with Stan Hasiak (Kapolei, Hawaii) and No. 3 OT Xavier Su'a-Filo (Pleasant Grove,Utah/Timpview) signing. Although there is plenty of work to be done, UCLA's class has some strong points. The Bruins are hoping they found their quarterback of the future in ESPNU 150 prospect Richard Brehaut (Rancho Cucamonga, Calif./Los Osos). Working to leave no stone unturned, UCLA lured some other talent away from other programs aside from Hasiak (Cal) that can help the Bruins, such as former Arizona commit linebacker Taniela Maka (Long Beach, Calif./David Starr Jordan), a former Arizona commit, and the No. 1-ranked tight end Morrell Presley (Carson, Calif.). Presley was a big get for the Bruins; they were able to get him away from rival USC. Presley is a good player who can help the Bruins offense right away. The Bruins were also able to get back a prospect they lost in corner Marlon Pollard (San Bernardino, Calif./Cajon), who is one of three top-50 corners in the Bruins' class.

18. Virginia Tech

No. 22 CB Jayron Hosley (Del Ray Beach, Fla./Atlantic Community) was a nice land on signing day and one of the few prospects signed outside the state. The Hokies' class has a potential difference-maker at RB in David Wilson (Danville, Va./George Washington), who has more speed than incumbent Darren Evans and could be good change of pace. Virginia Tech also signed two quality ATHs in Logan Thomas (Lynchburg, Va./Brookville) and Theron Norman (Richmond, Va./Hermitage). Thomas is built a lot like Ohio State's Terrelle Pryor and could play wide receiver, H-back or even QB, while Thomas could make an impact at safety or receiver. Most importantly, the Hokies signed sleeper LB Tariq Edwards (Cheraw, S.C./Marlboro County), who fills a need and could make an impact in the near future.

19. Clemson

The Tigers fell short of their No. 2 finish in 2008, but after a tumultuous fall did sign five ESPNU 150 prospects including top-10 WR Bryce McNeal (Minneapolis/Breck) and top 5 QB Tajh Boyd (Hampton, Va./Phoebus). Clemson's class also boasts No. 11 OT J.K. Jay (Greenville, S.C./Christ Church), who's already on campus, and No. 9 DE Malliciah Goodman (Florence, S.C./West). Goodman and DaQuan Bowers could give Clemson a formidable bookend duo. Also, Clemson has a verbal commit from Under Armour All-American LB Eric Fields (Warner Robins, Ga./Northside), who would fill a major need for the Tigers, but it looks like he will be a late qualifier.

20. Arkansas

No significant news out of Fayetteville on signing day but Bobby Petrino have to be pleased with his top-20 class, despite a lack of success during the season. He has aimed to keep the top in-state prospects within Arkansas' borders, and it showed. The Razorbacks landed three of the state's top-five prospects, led by No. 3 CB Darius Winston (Helena, Ark./West Helena Central) and No. 5 OG Colby Berna (Fayettevill, Ark.). However, the Razorbacks have done well in surrounding areas as well by signing No. 12 CB David Gordon (Tulsa, Okla./East Central), RB Knile Davis (Missouri City, Texas/Thurgood Marshall), Ronnie Wingo (Saint Louis/Saint Louis University) and USC transfer RB Broderick Green. Gordon will enhance the team's overall speed, while Davis is a sleeper who could develop into a productive, workhorse back.

21. Rutgers

Coach Greg Schiano knows the importance of defense, which reflected in this year's recruiting class. Four of the Scarlet Knights' top-five recruits line up on defense, including No. 9 DT Antwan Lowery (Miami, Fla./Christopher Columbus). However, No. 8 QB Tom Savage (Philadelphia/Cardinal O'Hara) is their best prospect and one of the top pocket-passers in the nation. If it wasn't for decommitments from No. 3 C Mark Brazinski (Basking Ridge, N.J./Immaculata), No. 23 RB Desmond Scott (Durham, N.C./Hillside) and safeties Terrance Taylor (Miami/Archbishop Carroll) and Gerald Hodges (Paulsboro, N.J.), the Scarlet Knights would have been much higher on this list.

22. Ole Miss

Mississippi head coach Houston Nutt has carried his programs' on-field success over to the recruiting trail in 2009; Ole Miss signed a talented and deep class. There are some questions about how many of these players the Rebels will actually head to Oxford next fall -- the oversigned the limit by more than 10 players. The Rebels had a successful signing day with the inking of top-15 WR Pat Patterson (Macon, Miss./Noxubee County) and ESPNU 150 TE Zaccheus Mason (Nashville, Tenn./Christ Presbyterian) on offense. The physically impressive Willie Ferrell (Tallahassee, Fla./Florida A. & M. U.) could make an impact at inside linebacker. Korvic Neat (Hallandale, Fla.) and Rodney Scott (Cross City, Fla./Dixie County) are explosive Sunshine State products when the ball is in their hands, and they will add dynamic presence to Mississippi's offensive roster in the fall. On defense, Ole Miss added a pair of good-sized, well-rounded safeties in Dele Junaid (Fort Bend, Texas/Hightower) and Frank Crawford (Miami/Gulliver). They also landed a major pickup down the stretch in the form of ESPNU 150 defensive end Craig Drummond (Chicago/ Morgan Park), who decommitted from Illinois. He has great size, a long wingspan, excellent reach and could help Ole Miss quickly as a run-stopper with his ability to use his hands and create great separation.

23. Mississippi State

Recently hired head coach Dan Mullen inherited a solid class, including one ESPNU 150 prospect from Sylvester Croom, and quickly hit the trail signing some gems of his own. Landing WR Brandon Heavens (Bessemer, Ala./Bessemer Academy) from Auburn on signing day sent a message and added another playmaker to Mullen's spread system. Mullen's biggest recruiting achievement was landing Chad Bumphis (Tupelo, Miss.), the state's top-rated athlete and the No. 120 prospect in the 2009 class. Bumphis could serve as a Percy Harvin-type in the new head coach's system. Fellow top-10 Mississippi athletes LaDarius Perkins (Greenville, Miss./St. Joseph), Dennis Thames (Louisville, Miss.), and Jonathan Banks (Maben, Miss./East Webster) will join Bumphis. Look for the versatile, quick-footed Perkins to serve in a similar role to Bumphis'. Under Armour All-American running back Montrell Conner (Monroe, La./Ouachita Parish) is still the Bulldogs' top prospect in a quietly-strong class from top to bottom. Mullen made a huge splash on the trail once he officially became a full-time coach in Starkville.

24. South Florida

The Bulls are right at the heels of Rutgers in the race to claim the Big East's top recruiting class. One of the most impressive things about South Florida's recruiting is how the Bulls have won some of the head-to-head battles against higher-profile universities, including other Florida schools. A perfect example is how players like running back Victor Marc and cornerback Ricardo Dixon of Hallandale High School had their choice of major schools, but are currently committed to South Florida. The Bulls also lured active defensive end Ryne Giddins (Seffner, Fla./Armwood), who is the nation's fifth-rated player at his position.

25. Auburn

A once top-15 class has imploded after Tommy Tuberville's resignation in December. But new head man Gene Chizik inherited some quality prospects and landed a few of his own. The loss of WR Brandon Heavens (Bessemer, Ala./Bessemer Academy) to Mississippi State is significant, but landing top-25 quarterback Tyrik Rollison (Sulpher Springs, Texas) down the stretch was a great land for the program; he could develop into a productive dual-threat at that position. Rollison's an important piece to this class but whether he qualifies is the big question. Athlete Travante Stallworth (Leesville, La.) will enhance this roster at a position in need of young depth. Philip Lutzenkirchen (Marietta, Ga./Lassiter) is one of the more athletic pass-catching tight ends in the country. Auburn traditionally has recruited well on defense, and it shows in this class. Terrence Coleman (Mobile, Ala./Williamson) can provide some pressure as a speed-rusher. Athlete Izauea Lanier (Gordo, Ala.) was Chizik's first commitment in his return to The Plains. Lanier's is an underrated skill player with the versatility to play both safety and receiver. Also, former Southern Miss commit Jamar Travis (East Brewton, Ala./W.S. Neal) will be a handful in the trenches.

 

[Byrd Man]

I'll take an 11th finish.

Even if there is no QB...we still got a good defense....even if we don't have an offense. We can be like the Kyle Boller led Baltimore Ravens.....yay...

 

[Immortalfire]

That is just gonna fire up the gators I will be watching when they meet in September

Don't hurt yourself jumping onto that FL bandwagon.

 

[Mister J]

Kiffin has already had flareups with Spurrier, Saban and Meyer. He's been in Knoxville all of 43 minutes. I think it's funny. Stoke the flames in the rivalry.

I hope he's enjoying it as well, because come October or so, I don't think Lane will find it all as humorous.

 

[StorminNorman]

I really want Kiffin and Mark Richt to be good buddies. I don't know why, but I want to imagine them playing golf three times an offseason and being godparents to each others children.

 

[Green Lantern]

\m/ Hook Em Horns \m/

 

[Immortalfire]

I really want Kiffin and Mark Richt to be good buddies. I don't know why, but I want to imagine them playing golf three times an offseason and being godparents to each others children.

Ain't no way.

 

[Immortalfire]

Tennessee recruiting violations http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/news?slug=ap-tennessee-recruiting&prov=ap&type=lgns

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (AP)—Tennessee notified the NCAA it found a Southeastern Conference coach committing recruiting violations—the Volunteers’ own Lane Kiffin.

Kiffin was reprimanded by SEC commissioner Mike Slive on Thursday for falsely accusing Florida’s Urban Meyer of a recruiting violation.

In letters to the NCAA and SEC, the Tennessee athletic department said the secondary violations occurred in January. One violation occurred when nine prospects on an official visit to the school participated in a mock press conference at Neyland Stadium’s media center.

Another violation occurred when a fog machine was used as a recruit entered the field at Neyland Stadium during his official visit on Jan. 9.

Under NCAA recruiting rules, schools are prohibited from simulating a game experience for recruits during official visits.

Tennessee issued letters of admonishment to Kiffin and recruiting coordinator Ed Orgeron and provided the staff with a review of NCAA recruiting policies. Neither the NCAA nor the SEC has issued any punishment.

“They understand that they must ask questions of the compliance office about anything ‘creative’ regarding campus visits,” the Jan. 26 letter said.

The violations were first reported Monday by The Knoxville News Sentinel.

Tennessee’s coaching staff believed the mock press conference was allowed because it was not done in public. They thought the use of the fog machine was allowed after seeing it used at other universities.

Kiffin, who was introduced as Tennessee’s new coach on Dec. 1, said Meyer broke recruiting rules by phoning wide receiver prospect Nu’Keese Richardson as he was making his official visit to Tennessee. Doing so would not constitute a violation of either NCAA or SEC rules.

South Carolina coach Steve Spurrier questioned whether Kiffin broke rules by contacting a recruit before being cleared by the NCAA to do so. Kiffin assured fans that he had been notified by the NCAA that he was cleared before making his first phone call.

Kiffin joked later that he received a 39 out of 40 on his recruiting test required by the NCAA.

Looks like Al Davis was right about this guy.

 

[Mister J]

In letters to the NCAA and SEC, the Tennessee athletic department said the secondary violations occurred in January. One violation occurred when nine prospects on an official visit to the school participated in a mock press conference at Neyland Stadium’s media center.

Another violation occurred when a fog machine was used as a recruit entered the field at Neyland Stadium during his official visit on Jan. 9.

Under NCAA recruiting rules, schools are prohibited from simulating a game experience for recruits during official visits.

This is mindbogglingly unnecessary.

Participating in a scrimmage or something?; Sure. A fake press conference and use of a fog machine entrance?; Come the **** on.

 

[Byrd Man]

Wow. I know all Tennessee players and coaches cheat, but the point is to not get caught. I figured Fulmer would have passed that on to Kiffin before he left for that large Dunkin' Doughnuts in the sky.

 

[Immortalfire]

At first I thought Kiffin was just trying too hard to fit in down here, ya know... California kid coming to the southeast. But then he tries to swipe every other SEC school's recruiting co-ordinator, tries to make commits switch, blames players' family members because they don't come to TN, attempts to provoke Richt, Saban and Meyer among other things. Al was right..this guy is a loon.

 

[The Incredible Hulk]

LOL that's aweome. Kiffin busted out the Fog Machine for the recruits. What's he gonna do next? Hire Rick Derringer to play "Real American" as the recruits come out of the tunnel?

 

[StorminNorman]

As crazy as this stuff is, I like where Lane is coming from. I am going to wait till after this year to make a prediction on the guy, if he has a respectable year next year then I think he could be a great coach in Tennessee as he will mature considerably as a coach in a short time. If he stumbles early and never gets any respect, I could see it becoming ugly for him.

 

[RAMORE]

His dad won't let it get too out of hand and he'll keep the team in contention based on D alone just like he's been doing for the bucs for years.

 

[Immortalfire]

Oregon coach wants more celebration penalties http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/news?slug=ap-ncaa-footballrules&prov=ap&type=lgns

INDIANAPOLIS (AP)—Oregon coach Mike Bellotti wants college football to have tougher penalties against unsportsmanlike conduct and dangerous hits.

Now it’s time to find out whether his coaching colleagues agree with his suggestions.

Bellotti, the NCAA football rules committee chairman, said Wednesday officials should eject more players for flagrant personal fouls, and agreed to seek input on whether some celebration penalties should be live-ball penalties, which could result in losing points.

While the ejections will be a point of emphasis next season, the celebration recommendation is not even a formal proposal yet.

“We’re going to poll the coaches and see if they support that (celebration change),” Bellotti said. “They may not.”

Bellotti said the change was not likely to take affect for at least two years, and even if approved would likely apply only to players who begin taunting opponents before crossing the goal line. The penalty would be assessed from the spot of the foul, like offensive holding calls in college football.

Teams would not be penalized, Bellotti said, for a group celebration after the score because the NCAA wants to emphasize the team concept, not individuals.

Then again, the committee may not have to do anything.

“That would be a huge change, so we want to give it time to soak out there,” said Rogers Redding, the SEC coordinator of officials. “We may change behaviors just because we’re talking about it.”

Other proposals include a revised statement on sportsmanship that could lead to harsher penalties.

The edited version would make coaches responsible for player behavior before, during and after games. If there are repeated infractions, a coach and school could be disciplined by conference officials.

None of the proposals will become official until they are passed by the oversight committee next month.

Bellotti also wants officials to have more leeway in ejecting players for flagrant personal fouls. Those calls would also trigger an automatic review by conference officials.

“We believe, in some cases, that players must be penalized more severely when the contact is clearly flagrant and dangerous,” Bellotti said.

Another change would limit the protective area for punters.

That is a reaction to the trendy rugby style kicks, a tactic in which punters move several steps before kicking the ball on the run. If adopted, opponents could not be called for roughing or running into the kicker if the punter is outside the tackle box.

Game clock and time issues that have dominated rules meetings in recent years were not major topics this week.

“There was consensus approval by coaches on all levels on the clock discussions,” Bellotti said. “I think the clock rules worked out as we thought they would. It may have cost teams four or five plays per game, but that’s what we were expecting.”

The committee also approved a provision allowing both teams to wear colored jerseys in games when there is a clear contrast in color and only if both teams agrees. The agreement is also subject to conference approval.

If there is not an agreement, the visiting team would wear white jerseys.

And I thought the NFL had it bad.

 

[Dr. Evil]

Did anyone here ever think Pete Carroll would turn into one of the best coaches in College Football? Seriously, who would have ever thought that a mediocre NFL head coach would turn out to be a top flight college football coach?

That turned out to be a great move for USC.

 

[RAMORE]

Yeah but who could predict it? It's almost as hard to take a good college coach and him be big in the pros. For every Jimmy Johnson there is a hundred Kiffens, Sabans, etc..