The betting favorites for the upcoming college football season are broken down by Steve. There is a delay of 2 minutes. The upcoming start of actual football games means that the time has come to rank college football players on their ability to play football. A good, old-fashioned 1-to-100 stacking of who is the best at playing football, regardless of position, is what they're going to do. Does having a trophy at the house make a difference? What about all those guys trying to tackle the quarterback? Prepare to be amazed. You're a ball carrier and Will Anderson is chasing you. The voters were presented with a series of one-on-one votes. "Who will be better in the year 2022." is a question that could be posed. It's a drill of statistical reasoning. There were more than 11,000 votes cast. Ryan's name is Ryan. Jump to: 1-10 | 11-20 | 21-30 | 31-40 | 41-50
51-60 | 61-70 | 71-80 | 81-90 | 91-100 OLB, Alabama is a junior.
Notable 2021 stats: 101 tackles (57 solo), 17.5 sacks
Last year's ranking: 101. Will Anderson Jr.
The winner of the Bronko Nagurski trophy could be the top pick in the draft. As a sophomore, the former Freshman of the Year led the country in sacks and tackles for loss.
Alabama's quarterback is a junior.
Notable 2021 stats: 4,872 yards, 47 TDs
Last year's ranking: 21
He stepped in for Mac Jones in his first season as a starter and lived up to the hype. He set an Alabama single-season record for passing yards with 4,912, as well as a school-record 47 touchdown passes.
The quarterback for Ohio State is a junior.
Notable 2021 stats: 4,435 yards, 44 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
At Ohio State, the leader of the high-powered offense should be the one named Stroud. Ryan Day, the quarterback's coach, says he has seen growth and maturity from the player. If everything goes according to plan, he could be back on the list once the season ends.
The Ohio State junior is a wide receiver.
Notable 2021 stats: 1,606 yards, 9 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
Smith-Njigba broke out with the other two on the team. The team's leading receiver was Smith-Njigba, who had 1,606 receiving yards and 9 receiving touchdown. One of the main targets for C.J. Stroud will be Smith-Njigba.
The junior running back of Texas.
Notable 2021 stats: 1,127 yards, 11 TDs
Last year's ranking: 14
Robinson missed the final two games of last season with an elbow injury, but he still ran for 1,127 yards and averaged 5.8 yards per carry last year. Robinson is ready for a big year in his last season in Austin.
Georgia is a junior state.
Notable 2021 stats: 37 tackles (17 solo), 3 sacks
Last year's ranking: NR
Georgia had three defensive linemen taken in the first round. Carter may be better than all of them. He led the team with 8.5 tackles for loss and averaged a tackle on 11.6% of snaps. He's ranked as the fourth-best prospect in the next decade.
The sophomore at Ohio State is a running back.
Notable 2021 stats:1,248 yards, 15 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
Last year, Henderson ran for 1,272 yards and 15 touchdown. After the first contact, he was 12th in yards after first contact. Henderson has a year of experience and should be even better.
The sophomore is a tight end.
Notable 2021 stats: 882 yards, 13 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
He was the best tight end in the country last year. If he stays healthy, it's hard to imagine what he's going to do in his second year. He set a school record with 13 touchdown catches. He is likely to be the quarterback's favorite target again.
The USC junior is a wide receiver.
Notable 2021 stats: 1,593 yards, 17 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
The addition of Addison seemed to swing USC from being dangerous this coming season to being a problem for teams outside of the Pacific-12. Is a wide receiver worth that much? It's hard to argue that he can't because he was the best wideout in the country and he's going to play with a better quarterback. USC has always had elite wide receiver talent, even during its down years. All of them did not win a Biletnikoff.
The USC quarterback is a sophomore.
Notable 2021 stats: 1,912 yards, 21 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
On the field, what Williams can do is obvious. The hype surrounding him doesn't seem to make him uncomfortable. This is meant as a compliment, but USC has been missing a player with this type of irrational confidence. He can single-handedly lead this team to success if his game matches it this year.
The junior is a receiver for the LSU football team.
Notable 2021 stats: 509 yards, 9 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
A season-ending injury against Kentucky last October ended a nine-game run in which he scored in every game and racked up 13 touchdown. The decision to give Boutte the ceremonial No. 7 jersey in July is indicative of what is expected of the most talented player on the roster.
The junior is a running back at Kansas State.
Notable 2021 stats: 1,404 yards, 18 TDs
Last year's ranking: 44
One of the best backs in the country is Vaughn. He ran for over 1,400 yards and 18 touchdown in his sophomore season in 2021. From a talent perspective, he's the most important player on Kansas State's roster.
The sophomore is a defensive player.
Notable 2021 stats: 13 tackles (6 solo) 1.5 sacks in 4 games
Last year's ranking: 11
In 2020, Bresee had 33 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss and four sacks, and he was the defensive freshman of the year in the Atlantic Coast Conference. He tore his knee in the fourth game of the season and missed the rest of the season. He earned third-team All-ACC honors in recognition of his dominance over the course of a short period. He will have his best year yet.
The sophomore CB is from Georgia.
Notable 2021 stats: 34 tackles (26 solo), 2 INT
Last year's ranking: NR
Georgia's first national championship in 41 years will always be remembered by the fans as a result of Ringo's pick 6. Ringo is a tall defensive back with long arms and good ball skills. If he is more consistent this season, he could be one of the first defensive backs taken in the draft.
The sophomore is a running back.
Notable 2021 stats: 1,496 yards, 12 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
Tucker broke the single-season school rushing record in 2021, so that gives you all the context you need about why he was included on this list. Tucker's jersey number and what he says after every game have been referred to as "PL34SED," a nod to his jersey number and what he says after every game.
The Notre Dame junior is a tight end.
Notable 2021 stats: 840 yards, 7 TDs
Last year's ranking: 47
Along with Georgia's Brock Bowers, Mayer is a prime contender for the award. In his first two seasons, he has recorded more than 100 catches for over 1,300 yards and nine touchdown. Notre Dame's new starting quarterback is going to benefit from his presence.
The sophomore is a LB.
Notable 2021 stats: 114 tackles (53 solo), 4 sacks, 2 FF, 1 INT
Last year's ranking: NR
After a season of 114 tackles, four sacks, two forced turnovers and a lot of changes at Oregon, Sewell is the mainstay of theDucks badly need. Last season's success is bound to continue with Dan Lanning taking the helm. Questions abound on the offensive side of the ball, so Oregon is going to need an encore from Sewell as the leader of the Duck's defense to make some noise. There is good news. He's able.
The DE is from the junior section of the school.
Notable 2021 stats: 37 tackles (21 solo), 7 sacks
Last year's ranking: 25
It's possible that the biggest obstacle to Murphy's dominance at defensive end is that he has to share his wealth with other linemen. Murphy finished last season with seven sacks, 14 tackles for loss, two forced turnovers and 12 runs stopped at or behind the line of scrimmage. Murphy is anchoring a line that could have two or three of them.
The junior is the quarterback of NC State.
Notable 2021 stats: 3,433 yards, 35 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
NC State coach Dave Doeren has seen a lot of his quarterbacks over the course of his career, and he says that Leary is the best in the country. Leary set a single-season school touchdown record last season. The completion percentage is the third highest in school history. The media chose Leary as the player of the year.
Alabama's running back is a junior.
Notable 2021 stats: 746 yards, 4 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
When he left Georgia Tech in late November, there was a lot of interest in him. He stepped in for Brian Robinson Jr. in the spring game and won the Most Valuable Player award.
Wake Forest's quarterback is a junior.
Notable 2021 stats: 4,228 yards, 39 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
Hartman will not be on the field for the early part of the season while he rehabilitates from a non- football issue. Hartman's absence will be felt by Wake Forest as he accounted for 4,591 yards of total offense and 50 combined touchdown. He is the 16th Power 5 quarterback in history to record 50 touchdown passes in a season.
The senior at Notre Dame.
Notable career stat: Has never allowed a sack
Last year's ranking: NR
The three-year starter and captain has not been responsible for a sack in his college career. One of the nation's best lines will be anchored by the 6-foot-4, 310-pound Patterson, who should push to become Notre Dame's first Rimington trophy winner.
Alabama, senior.
Notable 2021 stats: 86 tackles (50 solo), 3 INT
Last year's ranking: NR
The face of Alabama's defense is Will Anderson Jr., but don't sleep on the secondary. Battle is the third-ranked safety in next year's draft, and he had 86 tackles and three picks as a junior.
Jordan Battle made a pick-six after intercepting the ball.
Alabama sophomore OLB.
Notable 2021 stat: 30 tackles (14 solo), 8.5 sacks
Last year's ranking: NR
The Freshman All-American appeared in all 15 games last season, but he came on like a freight train in the last seven games. Turner benefits the defense by keeping Will Anderson Jr. from facing double and triple team blockers.
The sophomore is a quarterback.
Notable 2021 stats: 2,931 yards, 25 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
All eyes were on D' Eriq King as Van Dyke started as a backup. After King got hurt in the first game of the season, Van Dyke stepped in and started the rest of the games, which he finished with a flourish. He was the first Power 5 quarterback to throw for at least three touchdown passes in a single season.
North Carolina's junior wide receiver.
Notable 2021 stats: 101 rec, 1,335 yards
Last year's ranking: NR
Every defense the Tar Heels played was aware of where the ball was going. Downs was often the only dependable pass catcher. He caught 101 balls for 1,335 yards. Downs could be even bigger of a weapon this year because UNC expects to have a better supporting cast for its star receiver.
The quarterback for Mississippi State is a junior.
Notable 2021 stats: 4,739 yards, 36 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
It's hard to find a quarterback who isn't well known. Maybe it's because he is overshadowed by the other SEC teams. He plays in the Air Raid offense. Rogers was the leader in the conference in passing yards per game.
The senior is a running back.
Notable 2020 stats:1,078 yards, 15 TDs
Last year's ranking: 55
Ibrahim is going to be counted on more than ever now that Minnesota has lost two running backs. He had an injury in the season opener that ended his season. Ibrahim leads the team in rush yards the way he did in 2020 and he wants to come back and do it again.
The Wake Forest junior is a wide receiver.
Notable 2021 stats: 71 rec, 1,293 yards, 15 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
In the playoffs, only nine Power 5WRs have posted 70 catches, 1,200 yards and 15 touchdown in a season. The rest of the list includes a number of first-round picks. Sam Hartman is expected to miss a portion of the season in 2022, but he is in rarified air.
The Army is a junior.
Notable 2021 stats: 44 tackles (34 solo), 15.5 sack, 4 FF
Last year's ranking: NR
As an unrated recruit, he was 6 feet, 220 pounds. He's 6-7 and 260 and came off of one of the most incredible seasons you'll ever see. Will Anderson Jr. was the only one to top his sacks. He might do something as a senior.
Notre Dame is a senior.
Notable 2021 stats: 52 tackles (38 solo), 11 sacks, 6 FF
Last year's ranking: NR
The pass rush should be a strength for Notre Dame's defense, and Foskey will be the leader after recording team-highs in sacks and tackles for loss. The nation's most disruptive defenders were tied for the lead in forced turnovers and sacks per game.
The quarterback of Arkansas is a junior.
Notable 2021 stats: 2,676 yards, 31 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
A year ago in the SEC, Jefferson was one of the stars and he played quarterback with the mentality of a linebacker. In his second season as the starter, he should be even better because he has lost weight. A year ago, he was one of five quarterbacks in the country who had at least 20 touchdown passes and four or fewer turnovers.
Jefferson told SEC Now's Peter Burns that he mixed some of the playing style of CamNewton into his game
Kentucky's quarterback is a senior.
Notable 2021 stats: 2,826 yards, 24 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
Levis is expected to be one of the top quarterbacks taken in the 2023 NFL draft after being used primarily as a runner. He's still a threat to run the ball with his 6-3, 232-pound frame, but he showed last season that he's equally effective at beating teams with his strong right arm.
The sophomore is a running back.
Notable 2021 stats: 1,268 yards, 12 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
In the fourth game of the season, Allen broke out. After catching fire, Allen became a serious threat for Wisconsin, finishing the season with over 1,200 yards and 12 touchdown. Allen is in a good position to improve on his numbers from a year ago.
The quarterback, Coastal Carolina is a junior.
Notable 2021 stats: 2,873 yards, 27 TDs
Last year's ranking: 31
In two seasons as the pilot of the Chanticleers, McCall has completed 70% of his passes for 5,361 yards, 53 touchdown and only six turnovers. He has rushed for over 800 yards and scored many times. He may be the most efficient college quarterback of all time.
The junior at Ohio State.
Notable 2021 stats: 4 pressures allowed in 440 pass-block snaps, 1 sack
Last year's ranking: NR
The new starting tackle for Ohio State will be Johnson, who played all 13 games at right guard. He had an excellent season at a new position in 2021, and moving to his natural position should allow him to have an even better season.
Notre Dame is a junior school.
Notable 2021 stats: 79 tackles (54 solo), 3 INT
Last year's ranking: 62
One of the most important transfers on defense in the past cycle is Joseph. He brings experience and talent to a Notre Dame secondary that will be tested right away against Ohio State.
The LB is from the junior section of the school.
Notable 2021 stats: 65 tackles (41 solo), 6 sacks
Last year's ranking: NR
Simpson finished third on the team with 78 tackles and was second on the team in tackles for loss and sacks. "He's a freak, man," Swinney said as fall camp began. He is large, strong, fast and lean.
The senior is a LB.
Notable 2021 stat: 125 tackles (45 solo)
Last year's ranking: NR
The name is great in college football, but Pool's game is even better. He is a tackling machine for the Razorbacks and is back for a fifth year. Each of the past two seasons, he has racked up 100 or more total tackles. Pool was a second-team All- SEC selection a year ago.
The OLB is from Georgia.
Notable 2021 stats: 55 tackles (31 solo), 3.5 sack, 3 FF
Last year's ranking: NR
Smith, one of the few holdovers from last season's record-setting defense, has been overshadowed by former defensive line stars. Smith should have more of a spotlight this season.
The senior is a running back.
Notable 2021 stats:1,379 yards, 9 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
Rodriguez's status and whether or not he will miss any games after pleading guilty to a drunk driving charge are the only questions. He has been one of the SEC's most productive running backs each of the past two years and needs 1,134 yards to break a school record. Rodriguez has 26 career touchdown runs.
A junior running back from auburn
Notable 2021 stats: 1,099 yards, 10 TDs
Last year's ranking: 27
There is a list of great running backs at auburn. Bigsby is looking for another big season for the team. He ran for 1,099 yards as a sophomore and has speed and power.
The LSU junior is an oLB.
Notable 2021 stats: 54 tackles (31 solo), 7 sacks
Last year's ranking: NR
The fact that Ojulari was selected to wear the coveted No. 18 jersey tells you a lot. The player who best exemplifies LSU football is the winner. One of the more dangerous pass-rushers in the SEC is the defensive end. He had seven sacks and 11 tackles for loss.
Georgia's quarterback is a senior.
Notable 2021 stats: 2,862 yards, 29 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
The former walk-on was benched for much of the past two seasons. He silenced his detractors by leading the team to a national title. Bennett was the offensive Most Valuable Player in the National Championship Game, completing 17 of 26 passes for224 yards and two scores. With a full offseason as the starter under his belt, and a healthy and deeper receiver corps coming back, he might be better in the future.
The CB is from Alabama.
Notable 2021 stats: 11 tackles (9 solo), 1 INT in 6 games
Last year's ranking: 35
Alabama has had success with transfers in the past and Ricks should make an immediate impact in the secondary. The junior has good size and length for a defensive back. His sophomore season was cut short by an injury, but he had four intercepts, two of which he returned for touchdown.
The OT was junior.
Notable 2021 stats: 11 pressures allowed in 410 pass-block snaps, 2 sacks
Last year's ranking: NR
Skoronski started all 12 games as a sophomore and was an all-conference selection. He is one of the best offensive linemen in the country and is being projected as a first-round pick in the next NFL draft.
The Louisville quarterback is a senior.
Notable 2021 stats: 2,941 yards, 19 TDs
Last year's ranking: 65
Who was the top ranked in the Total QBR in the Atlantic Coast Conference? Cunningham, who threw for 2,941 yards and ran for 1,031, produced 39 combined scores. It's impossible to take your eyes off of him.
Utah's quarterback is a junior.
Notable 2021 stats: 2,492 yards, 20 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
In comparison to the chatter about incoming quarterbacks like USC's Williams and Wazzu's Ward, Rising isn't getting a lot of attention. He's the kind of quarterback that Utah needs to win the conference again, because after a season with nearly 2,500 passing yards and a 20-5 touchdown-Interception ratio, he's exactly the kind of steady quarterback.
Tennessee's quarterback is a senior.
Notable 2021 stats: 2,945 yards, 31 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
Heupel was the first-year Tennessee coach. Although not the starter to open the season, Hooker started the final 11 games and became one of the most efficient quarterbacks in the country with 3,561 yards of total offense and just three turnovers. One of the most experienced quarterbacks in college football is back.
ISU, senior.
Notable 2021 stats: 36 solo tackles (24 solo) 11.5 sacks, 5 FF
Last year's ranking: 84
Every quarterback in the Big 12 knows Mcdonald. He set an Iowa State single-season sack record in 2021. One of the team's strongest units is led by the career sack leader, who wants to expand on his record.
The sophomore is a receiver.
Notable 2021 stats: 981 yards, 12 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
In his freshman season, Worthy had nine catches for 261 yards and two touchdown against Oklahoma. The Longhorns are hoping for an encore from Worthy, who finished with 62 catches for 971 yards and 12 touchdown despite catching two or fewer passes in four games.
The Iowa CB is a senior.
Notable 2021 stat: 39 tackles (34 solo), 4 INT
Last year's ranking: NR
Moss was second on the team with four picks. He had five pass breakups for the Hawkeyes. He will be one of Iowa's best defenders in the future.
The DE is a senior at the school.
Notable 2021 stat: 21 tackles (12 solo), 3.5 sacks
Last year's ranking: 58
A former five-star recruit, Thomas announced his arrival with style, delivering a highlight reel hit on Syracuse quarterback Eric Dungey to secure a victory for the Tigers. Injuries kept Thomas out of the spotlight for much of the next two years. He racked up 14 quarterback hurries, 3.5 sacks and two forced turnovers in the year 2021. The pressure rate was 14.1% for him.
Alabama's senior LB.
Notable 2021 stat: 111 tackles (52 solo), 4 sacks
Last year's ranking: 48
Will Anderson Jr. is Alabama's defensive leader, but To'oTo'o is the glue that holds the team together. He was a second-team All-SEC selection after leading Alabama with 114 tackles and 4.5 for loss. To'oTo'o made 23 starts and led Tennessee in tackles.
The sophomore is a running back.
Notable 2021 stats: 739 yards, 11 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
Shipley was the second highest ranked high school running back in the country when he was a freshman. Despite missing two games in the middle of the season with a leg injury, Shipley showed his potential by rushing for 738 yards and 11 touchdown. His presence in the backfield will be crucial to the success of the offense.
Will Shipley runs for a touchdown.
The senior is a running back.
Notable 2021 stats: 1,271 yards, 16 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
Last season, Dye was Oregon's most consistent player. As a runner and pass-catching back, Dye will be an ideal No. 1 back at USC. He's a classic example of substance over flash, but it feels like there's more to him than that.
A sophomore at Oklahoma State.
Notable 2021 stats: 29 tackles (20 solo), 11. 5 sacks
Last year's ranking: NR
Oliver is the guy you want back after a freshman season like that, despite the fact that the Cowboys have just four starters returning.
The running back for Texas A&M is a junior.
Notable 2021 stats: 910 yards, 9 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
The SEC's most electric offensive performer should get a bigger role in Texas A&M's offense this fall. Last season, Achane led the SEC in yards per rush and had 905 yards and nine touchdown on only 130 carries. He can help in the pass game after 24 catches.
South Carolina is a junior.
Notable 2021 stats: 41 tackles (31 solo), 3 INT
Last year's ranking: NR
He is a very intriguing prospect for the 2023 NFL draft. Smith is the second draft-eligible defensive back and the 20th overall prospect. Smith was a second-team All-SEC selection last year, when he started seven games and allowed just two catches.
The senior is a receiver.
Notable 2021 stats: 1,081 yards, 12 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
The coaching/scheme change to Josh Heupel was more beneficial to the player than any other Tennessee player. The SEC's top returning receiver and a national awards candidate is Tillman.
As he moves past the Commodores' defense for his second touchdown of the game, he put on a show.
The Michigan State senior is a wide receiver.
Notable 2021 stats: 1,026 yards, 10 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
Reed was named to the third team at wide receiver. He was the leader of the Spartans in receiving yards and touchdown catches. During Michigan State's 11-2 season in 2021, Reed averaged 128.6 all-purpose yards a game, showing hisVersatility.
Georgia is a senior.
Notable 2021 stats: 44 tackles (23 solo), 3 INT
Last year's ranking: NR
Smith is one of the most experienced and productive players on the defense of Georgia. In the biggest game of his career, he had seven tackles, two pass breakups and an intercept in the win over Alabama.
The senior is a defensive player.
Notable 2021 stat: 23 tackles (8 solo), 2.5 sacks
Last year's ranking 57
Over the past two years, it has been a challenge for Davis. He burst onto the scene as a true freshman and racked up 6.5 sacks and 10 tackles for loss from the interior. Over the past two seasons, he has only been able to play 16 games due to injuries, and he only managed 4.5 sacks. He'll have a chance to build off of his stellar start to his career after he's healthy to kick off 2022.
The Oklahoma junior is a wide receiver.
Notable 2021 stats: 705 yards, 5 TDs
Last year's ranking: 8
Despite catching just 32 passes last year, Mims averaged 22.0 yards per reception and finished with 705 yards and five touchdown, down from 9 catches as a freshman. He has led Oklahoma in receiving yards in both seasons he has been in Norman.
Texas A&M is a junior school.
Notable 2021 stats: 79 tackles (53 solo), 1 INT
Last year's ranking: NR
The sophomore started all 13 games for Texas A&M. He was second on the defense for the A&M. He was named to the AP All- SEC second team. Johnson is on the watch list for a prestigious award.
Arkansas is a junior state.
Notable 2021 stats: 46 tackles (22 solo), 2 INT
Last year's ranking: NR
Catalon missed the last seven games of the season with a shoulder injury but still finished eighth on the team in tackles. He was the first Arkansas defensive back to ever earn first-team All-SEC honors. He had 99 tackles that fall.
The senior is a running back.
Notable 2021 stats: 1,137 yards, 13 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
The former Michigan running back has carved out a nice role at UCLA, where he finished the season with 1,137 yards rushing and was second in the conference in rushing. He was a second-team all-Pac-12 selection and could be one of the nation's top running backs.
The junior is a receiver.
Notable 2021 stats: 829 yards, 5 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
He caught the ball at an average rate of 13.37 yards per reception. With Tagovailoa back, Jarrett should have a good season.
The quarterback, Michigan State, is a junior.
Notable 2021 stats: 3,240 yards, 27 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
In his first full season as the Spartans' quarterback, Thorne set a single-season touchdown record. The Michigan State quarterback threw for 3,233 yards. He was named to the preseason watch lists for three prestigious awards.
The Oklahoma quarterback is a senior.
Notable 2021 stats: 814 yards, 9 TD in 3 games
Last year's ranking: 33
After starting 25 of 26 games in his career at UCF, Gabriel transferred to Oklahoma and will be rejoining Jeff Lebby, his former offensive coach. After just three games last year, Gabriel was injured and ranked second in the nation in total offense.
The senior LB is from Iowa.
Notable 2021 stats: 140 tackles (57 solo), 2 INT
Last year's ranking: NR
Campbell was second in the Big Ten with 140 tackles, which was the fifth most in Iowa history. He made at least 10 tackles. Campbell is on the LOTT Impact watch list as well as being named a preseason first-team All-American.
The CB is from North Carolina.
Notable 2021 stat: 47 tackles (36 solo)
Last year's ranking: 80
When he first started playing football for North Carolina, he was supposed to be in high school. After reclassifying during the COVID-19 epidemic that shut down high school football in his home state of Virginia, he quickly developed into one of theACC's most gifted corners. He held opposing quarterbacks to less than 50% completions while breaking up nine passes in the season that ended in 2021.
The senior is from Minnesota.
Notable 2021 stat: 1 pressure allowed in 289 pass-block snaps
Last year's ranking: NR
The Minnesota center started all 13 games last year. The team averaged 25.5 points per game thanks to the help of the offensive line. Schmitz is on the preseason watch lists for two prestigious awards.
The quarterback is a senior at the university of fresno state.
Notable 2021 stats: 4,096 yards, 33 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
He finished the year with 4,096 yards and 33 touchdown after torching UCLA for 455 passing yards in a September upset. He gets his top two players. Another big year is in store for the Washington transfer.
The CB is a junior at Penn State.
Notable 2021 stats: 51 tackles (40 solo), 1 INT
Last year's ranking: NR
Porter earned third team All-Big Ten recognition for Penn State after recording 51 tackles (40 solo) with one forced turnover and one intercept. He was a starter for the Nittany Lions as a sophomore. During a nine-overtime loss to Illinois, he made a career high of nine tackles.
Porter dives for the ball.
Texas A&M junior.
Notable 2021 stat: 4 pressures allowed in 311 pass-block snaps
Last year's ranking: NR
He earned second-team All-SEC honors last season and will be the leader of the interior linemen. Robinson is the top draft-eligible guard in the next ten years. He started all 10 games last fall. He is an elite run blocker who can help the offense.
The Iowa State senior is a wide receiver.
Notable 2021 stats: 987 yards, 5 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
The next quarterback's job won't be that hard without Brock Purdy. The Iowa State single-season record for touchdown catches is 83 by Hutchinson. With Charlie Kolar and Chase Allen gone, Hutchinson might have a chance to break his own record.
South Carolina's junior quarterback.
Notable 2021 stats: 1,493 yards, 11 TD in 9 games
Last year's ranking: 1
His career completion rate is 70%, he has 4,595 career passing yards and 40 touchdown, and he has only 12 turnovers. He is entering the second act of his college football career.
A junior running back for the Michigan football team.
Notable 2021 stats: 952 yards, 11 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
As a sophomore last season, Corum ran for 952 yards and 11 touchdown as the UM won the school's first Big Ten title since 2004 and went on to win the College Football Playoff. Corum is the unquestioned top back.
The OLB is from Florida.
Notable 2021 stats: 41 tackles (26 solo), 8.5 sacks
Last year's ranking: 59
Cox is unchanging even though change is everywhere you look. He had 4.5 sacks with 10 run stops at or behind the line, and he broke up four passes in coverage. Cox could be in charge of a great LB corps.
USC, senior.
Notable 2021 stat: 5 pressures allowed in 499 pass-block snaps
Last year's rankings: NR
This is the sixth year in a row that Vorhees has entered with a role for the USC. He is one of the most experienced players in college football and will play a key role on the offensive line for USC.
A junior at NC State.
Notable 2021 stats: 99 tackles (48 solo), 6 sacks
Last year's ranking: NR
The players believe that Thomas is the best in the country at his position. NC State is expected to be one of the best defensive teams in the league.
Pitt is a senior.
Notable 2021 stat: 41 tackles (25 solo), 9 sacks
Last year's ranking: NR
Baldonado is one of the defensive linemen developed by Pat Narduzzi. A year ago, Baldonado had 42 tackles, 11.5 tackles for loss and nine sacks, which ranked third in the Atlantic Coast Conference. Baldonado only played one year of high school football in the US before moving to Florida to play football. His rapid growth is more impressive.
The junior running back from Utah.
Notable 2021 stats: 1,108 yards, 21 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
After T.J. Pledger left for the NFL, Thomas is expected to see a bigger role in the offense. Thomas had more rushing touchdown than any Power 5 runner.
Georgia's sophomore.
Notable 2020 stats: 35 receptions, 368 yards
Last year's ranking: NR
Gilbert is just as dangerous for opposing defenses. Gilbert was the first tight end to win a national player of the year award. He caught 35 passes for 368 yards in his freshman year at LSU. He didn't play last season because of personal reasons.
The Michigan CB is a senior.
Notable 2021 stats: 33 tackles (26 solo), 2 INT
Last year's ranking: NR
In the year 2021, Turner started eight of Michigan's games. Turner had a career-high nine tackles in the win over Ohio State.
The Ole Miss running back is a junior.
Notable 2021 stats: 648 yards, 5 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
The blue-chipper from Houston managed just 146 rushes and 18 receptions in two years at TCU before he transferred, but he gained 1,270 yards with 10 touchdown in those 164 touches. He could be unstoppable in Lane Kiffin's up-tempo offense if he stays on the field in Oxford.
The Ohio State senior is a defensive end.
Notable 2021 stats: 33 tackles (22 solo), 3 sacks
Last year's ranking: NR
During his junior year at Ohio State, Harrison had 33 tackles with eight TFLs and three sacks. He has played in 33 games and started 14 for the Ohio State. Harrison was named to the All-Big Ten second team.
The quarterback is a senior.
Notable 2021 stats: 3,712 yards, 28 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
O'Connell started at quarterback for the Boilermakers in 2001. He was part of the team that upset Iowa and Michigan State. As a fifth-year senior, O'Connell threw for 3,712 yards and 28 touchdown. He threw for over 300 yards six times.
The Boilermaker scored a 53-yard touchdown on the play.
The senior OLB is from auburn.
Notable 2021 stat: 54 tackles (33 solo), 9 sacks
Last year's ranking: NR
In his junior year of college, Hall made 54 tackles. The coaches named Hall to the All- SEC second team.
The quarterback for Oklahoma State is a senior.
Notable 2021 stats: 2,839 yards, 20 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
So go the Cowboys. He lit up Notre Dame in the Fiesta Bowl, throwing for 372 yards and four scores to finish off a 37-35 comeback win after a Big 12 title game struggle where he threw four turnovers. The Cowboys' all-time winningest quarterback is Mason Rudolph, who needs nine wins to catch him.
The LB, Wisconsin is a junior.
Notable 2021 stats: 61 tackles (40 solo), 9 sacks
Last year's ranking: NR
Herbig led Wisconsin with nine sacks. He started all 13 games for the University of Wisconsin. Phil Steele named him to the first team.
The Florida quarterback is a sophomore.
Notable 2021 stats: 529 yards, 6 TDs in 7 games
Last year's ranking: NR
He's a big man. He's got a big arm, he's fast, and he's six over 30 yards deep in the air. The man has all the tools. We're going to see if he can put them all together.
The Cincinnati junior is a LB.
Notable 2021 stats: 95 tackles (45 solo), 4 INT
Last year's ranking: NR
The junior combines all of the best parts of a nickel back and outside linebacker. He made 14 run stops at or behind the line, and when he dropped into coverage, he picked off four passes and allowed just six completions.
The Virginia junior is a wide receiver.
Notable 2021 stats: 1,203 yards, 9 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
He caught 57 balls for 1,203 yards and an average of 21.2 yards per catch, good for fifth in the nation. He was the first player to catch 50 passes and average at least 20 yards per reception since the beginning of the year, and the only one to catch 27 passes of 20 yards or more.
The football was between Dontayvion's legs when he caught it.
The senior OL is from Alabama.
Notable 2021 stat: 7 pressures allowed in 593 pass-block snaps
Last year's ranking: NR
The senior from Indianapolis has been the starting right guard for the past two years. Georgia was in run blocking last year. He's going to lead the charge to get revenge on the Dawgs.
The Florida OL is a junior.
Notable 2021 stat: 3 pressures allowed in 378 pass-block snaps
Last year's ranking: 100
At Louisiana, an under-the-radar recruit was an immediate star for head coach Billy Napier. The former Freshman All-American and All-Sun Belt star is moving to Florida. He is Florida's most proven and high-upside linemen.
The person is a senior at Boston College.
Notable 2021 stats: 746 yards, 5 TDs
Last year's ranking: 83
After turning down lucrative NIL offers, Flowers stayed at Boston College for his senior season. The belief is that the Eagles will use Flowers more across the board and put him in position to make plays from multiple spots.
A sophomore.
Notable 2021 stat: 48 tackles (30 solo)
Last year's ranking: NR
When Lannden Zanders went down in the first game of the season, Mukuba was thrust into a starting position. He never missed a beat. During the season, the team held opposing quarterbacks to less than 50% completions, had seven pass breakups, allowed just three completions of 20 yards or more and surrendered less than half a yard per coverage snap. He was fourth on the team in tackles. He's the only established starter in the new-look secondary and his role will get even bigger.
The sophomore is a receiver.
Notable 2021 stats: 380 yards, 4 TDs
Last year's ranking: NR
Williams was a part of the Oklahoma-to- USC convoy and was named to the true freshman All-American team by the website. He knows the offense and has a good relationship with the quarterback.
Writeups by Chris Low, Kyle Bonagura, Bill Connelly, and others.
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