Top high school football players by jersey number

You're never going to see a shortage of quality running backs wearing the number 28, or impact wide receivers choosing numbers in the 80s for their jerseys.

As for top recruits that choose other numbers, like 49, that's where things get tricky.

MaxPreps details the top player who wears each jersey number from 1 to 99, and the consideration is mostly based on recruiting prowess, especially the Class of 2012 Top 100 recruits. But there are some numbers that require some deeper digging, and the winners aren't necessarily the names you've been hearing about all season.

TOP PLAYER FOR EACH JERSEY NUMBER 1-99



1. Rushel Shell, Hopewell (Aliquippa, Pa.), Sr., RB, 5-11, 215, Pittsburgh
Shell is No. 1 on his jersey and No. 1 in the history of the Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic League. He might even break the all-time state record of 9,027 career yards. The Pitt-committed running back, who currently leads his state in rushing, is the No. 1 Big Back as rated by Lemming and the No. 11 overall recruit in the Class of 2012. (Feature story)

2. Landon Collins, Dutchtown (Geismar, La.), Sr., S/RB, 6-1, 205, Uncommitted
Collins plays safety, linebacker and running back — and excels at all. At a camp at the University of Alabama, he got coach Nick Saban to say that Collins was the hardest-working player he's ever seen. Collins is averaging 14.8 yards per carry this year and though he wears No. 2, he's No. 1 on Lemming's list of the best safeties. His list is down to five schools and he plans to commit at the U.S. Army All-American Bowl. (Feature story)

3. Nelson Agholor, Berkeley Prep (Tampa, Fla.), Sr., ATH, 6-2, 185, Uncommitted
Agholor could end up as a wide receiver in college. He could also end up as a defensive back. He's very likely to return kicks. Lemming says Agholor has the talent to play whichever position, and he has superior quickness. He's a touchdown machine this season with 18 in six games and has rushed 67 times for 767 yards, backing up Lemming's statement that he's the No. 2 athlete and No. 22 overall recruit.

4. Cayleb Jones, Austin (Texas), Sr., WR, 6-3, 200, Texas
Jones' father played for the Dallas Cowboys, and Lemming says his skills remind him of another Cowboys legend: Michael Irvin. Jones has 41 catches for 738 yards and two touchdowns this season, and is coming off an All-State campaign in which he caught 53 passes. Jones is the No. 3 overall recruit, one less than his jersey number, and is the No. 2 wide receiver.

5. Dorial Green-Beckham, Hillcrest (Springfield, Mo.), Sr., WR, 6-6, 225, Uncommitted
Green-Beckham is so good, you don't need to remember his full name: Just call him DGB. The No. 1 recruit in the nation has played seven games this season and has 78 catches, 1,494 yards and 15 touchdowns, and the receiving totals are the best in the state of Missouri. Lemming says DGB is the first wide receiver he's seen in 17 years that is as good as Randy Moss was in high school. He has a shot this weekend at setting the national record for career receiving yards as well.

6. Dante Fowler, Lakewood (St. Petersburg, Fla.), Sr., DE, 6-3, 235, Florida State
Fowler is ranked as the No. 4 defensive end prospect, and Lemming describes him as "A quarterback's nightmare" and says that he comes off the edge faster than any other player this season. Fowler was a MaxPreps Junior All-American last season, and is the No. 29 recruit in the Class of 2012. He's helped lead Lakewood to a 7-0 record so far this season.

7. Connor Brewer, Chaparral (Scottsdale, Ariz.), Sr., QB, 6-2, 195, Texas
Brewer led Chaparral to a 14-0 record, a state title and the state record for most points scored in a season (727) last season. This year, he's completed 105 of 168 passes for 1,721 yards and 27 touchdowns against just four interceptions. The MaxPreps Junior All-American is the No. 28 recruit overall and the No. 2 pro-style quarterback according to Lemming. (Feature story)



8. Travis Blanks, North Florida Christian (Tallahassee, Fla.), Sr., DB/WR, 6-1, 195, Clemson
The No. 2 safety in this year's recruiting class is also an honorable mention in the cornerback group, and in college, Lemming says he can play either because he has the cover skills and the big hits. Blanks is reported as wanting to play corner at Clemson. Blanks has helped lead NFC to a 6-0 record and is the No. 16 overall recruit.

9. Noah Spence, Bishop McDevitt (Harrisburg, Pa.), Sr., DE, 6-4, 245, Uncommitted
Spence is a large, powerful and quick player who has played varsity all four years. The MaxPreps Junior All-American has said he will make his commitment at the U.S. Army All-American Bowl. His father played at North Carolina State and he has 38 tackles and four sacks thus far this season. Last year, he posted 23 sacks and 10 forced fumbles. (Feature story)

10. Tommy Schutt, Glenbard West (Glen Ellyn, Ill.), Sr., DE/DT, 6-3, 290, Penn State
Schutt is playing defensive end for Glenbard West this season but is projected as a defensive tackle in college, and he's reportedly now around 300 pounds. Lemming says he is the No. 5 defensive tackle in the Class of 2012 and No. 46 overall. He was a MaxPreps Junior All-American as well. (Feature story)

{PAGEBREAK} 11. Gunner Kiel, Columbus East (Ind.), Sr., QB, 6-4, 215, Indiana
Kiel surprised many by committing to his home-state Hoosiers, and Indiana will be getting the No. 1 pro style quarterback in the nation, No. 2 overall. He completed 139 of 209 passes last season for 2,645 yards to go with 36 touchdowns and six interceptions, and this year he has Columbus East off to a 8-1 start. Lemming says "His accuracy is uncanny and his ability to accurately throw deep is a major plus. He can be elusive in the pocket and although he weighs close to 220 pounds, he can cause defenses nightmares once he decides to tuck and run." (Feature story)

12. Tyler Matthews, McPherson (Kan.), Sr., QB, 6-3, 195, TCU
Matthews is the No. 85 overall recruit and the No. 5 pro style quarterback in the Class of 2012. Currently, he has completed 102 of 165 passes for 1,713 yards with 14 touchdowns and four interceptions. He's the No. 3 passer in Kansas as of now and Lemming says he has "impressive mechanics, arm strength and a quick delivery." Matthews took his team to a 9-2 mark and the second round of the 5A playoffs last season, and McPherson is 5-1 this year.

13. Bart Houston, De La Salle (Concord, Calif.), Sr., QB, 6-4, 214, Wisconsin
Houston is a big-time recruit, No. 78 overall and No. 4 among pro style quarterbacks. But most importantly, he's a winner. He took DLS to 27 straight victories before the Spartans lost at St. Thomas Aquinas on Sept. 23. Houston's stats this year are down from what he's accustomed to posting, but he's still one of California's best. He has completed 41 of 82 passes for 775 yards with seven touchdowns and five interceptions.

14. Zeke Pike, Dixie Heights (Edgewood, Ky.), Sr., QB, 6-5, 230, Auburn
Pike's teammates call him "Zeus" and down at Auburn, he's being looked upon like a god by Tiger fans. The Cincinnati-area star is the No. 3 pro style quarterback and the No. 30 in the Class of 2012. According to Lemming, "He has everything needed to become an impact QB in college." (Feature story)



15. Chase Hansen, Lone Peak (Highland, Utah), Sr., QB, 6-4, 210, Utah
Hansen can play just about any skill position on the field, according to Lemming. He's classified as an athlete though he's listed as a quarterback on the Lone Peak roster. Hansen is the No. 19 athlete and also received honorable mention in the inside linebacker category. This year he has completed 129 of 203 passes for 2,053 yards and 26 touchdowns against four touchdowns, plus 100 rushes for 696 yards and eight touchdowns for a 9-0 team. Last year he was listed as one of the Top 10 recruits on the rise.

16. Aaron Burbridge, Harrison (Farmington Hills, Mich.), Sr., WR, 6-1, 182, Michigan State
Burbridge is one of the main targets on the No. 21 team in the MaxPreps Xcellent 25 National Football Rankings and is the No. 21 wide receiver in the Class of 2012. Lemming says that Burbridge is most dangerous once he catches the ball and starts making moves in the open field. Burbridge caught 26 passes last season for Harrison.

17. Mario Edwards, Ryan (Denton, Texas), Sr., DE, 6-4, 285, Florida State
Edwards has the size, quickness and strength to be an impact defensive end in college, according to Lemming. He's ranked No. 5 overall and is the No. 2 defensive end, and some of the credit has to go to his father, an All-American defensive back at Florida State with the same name. Edwards weighs much more than the No. 1 DE, Noah Spence, but Lemming says he still has the quickness of someone lighter.

18. Ellis McCarthy, Monrovia (Calif.), Sr., DT/TE, 6-4, 310, Uncommitted
McCarthy was not a household name early on, but the massive man from the Los Angeles area has emerged as the No. 1 defensive tackle recruit, No. 7 overall. McCarthy made the All-California Division III team and was last year's Pasadena Star News All-Area Defensive MVP and CIF Southern Section All-Mid Valley Division.

19. Reggie Ragland, Bob Jones (Madison, Ala.), Sr., LB, 6-3, 245, Alabama
Ragland, a returning MaxPreps Junior All-American pick, is rated as the No. 11 outside linebacker in the Class of 2012. He's also a very good basketball player, playing a big role on the state-title hoops team at Bob Jones and earning a mention on the prominent multi-sport stars story. Ragland has helped lead Bob Jones to a perfect 8-0 record thus far.

20. Jordan Richmond, Ryan (Denton, Texas), Sr., LB, 6-1, 220, Texas A&M
Richmond is the No. 11 inside linebacker recruit in the Class of 2012, and according to Lemming, is the defensive leader on the field for Ryan. Teamed up with the top No. 17, Mario Edwards, Richmond has helped Ryan move to a 22-1 record over the past season and a half. Richmond "Shows good ball awareness, is instinctive, plays the game on his feet, and is as physical as they come."
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21. Marcus Maye, Holy Trinity Episcopal (Melbourne, Fla.), Sr., ATH/DB, 6-1, 195, Florida
Maye is Mr. Everything at Holy Trinity. And at Florida, he could be Mr. Anything. Lemming says he could end up playing free safety, cornerback or running back in college, and he's especially effective on defense. Through the first four games of the season, Maye racked up 660 rushing yards on 58 carries. He's ranked as the No. 13 athlete, No. 9 safety and an honorable mention pick at cornerback.

22. Deionte Buckley, Warren Central (Indianapolis), Sr., RB, 5-9, 198, Cincinnati
Buckley doesn't have a ton of height but he's explosive, according to Lemming. He's an honorable mention choice at tailback and he has 148 rushes for 1,128 yards and 19 rushing touchdowns. He also has 10 catches for 133 yards and a score. Lemming says "He's short but powerful and quick with excellent vision. He explodes through holes, breaks a lot of tackles, and does a great job of finishing off his runs."



23. Marcus Farria, Centennial (Peoria, Ariz.), Jr., DE, 6-5, 240, Uncommitted
Farria is one of the few juniors on the list, and his size certainly makes him worthy. According to stats from the first three games of the season, Farria posted 5.5 sacks. Azcentral.com has reported that Farria is a Louisiana transplant and he's a hot commodity on the recruiting scene.

24. Matt Jones, Armwood (Seffner, Fla.), Sr., RB, 6-3, 225, Florida
Jones is the No. 23 overall recruit, and is actually the third Jones on the list from top to bottom. He's the no. 2 big back and he's leading the No. 2 team in the nation. Despite missing time due to an injury this season, Jones is averaging just more than 10 yards per rush and has seven touchdowns in four games. Even though he's a big back that resembles a linebacker, Lemming raves about Jones' speed. (Feature story)

25. Ron Darby, Potomac (Oxon Hill, Md.), Sr., ATH, 5-11, 175, Notre Dame
He's just as famous on the track as he is on the football field. Darby posts sprint times that rest among the nation's best and his speed has helped him become the No. 26 overall recruit in the Class of 2012. He is also the No. 3 athlete and an honorable mention at cornerback. Lemming says Darby is the fastest football player in the nation and that he will be a kickoff return weapon in college.

26. Barry J. Sanders, Heritage Hall (Oklahoma City), Sr., RB, 5-11, 195, Uncommitted
Yes, he is the son of the NFL legend who played for the Detroit Lions. Yes, he is fast, big and highly sought jsut like his father. Sanders is in his fourth year of varsity football and is the No. 10 overall recruit. He is No. 2 on the list of tailbacks and could end up as No. 1 by the end of the season. Seven games into an undefeated season, one in which he doesn't get to play the whole game due to lopsided scores, Sanders has 61 carries for 633 yards and 13 touchdowns. (Feature story)

27. Kwontie Moore, Norfolk Christian (Va.), Sr., LB, 6-4, 243, Virginia
Moore earned second-team MaxPreps Junior All-American honors last season after recording 153 tackles and was also named Recruit757 Defensive Player of the Year. He's a dual-threat as well, scoring 18 touchdowns last year for an 11-1 team. Lemming has Moore rated as the No. 16 inside linebacker in the Class of 2012.

28. Shakeem Wharton, Byrnes (Duncan, S.C.), Sr., RB, 5-10, 200, Uncommitted
Wharton was a workhorse last year and gutted out 159 yards and three touchdowns on 31 carries in the state title game, which Byrnes won. This year he's rushed 45 times for 280 yards and four scores as the No. 16 big back and an honorable mention tailback. Lemming says "He is perfectly built for the RB position, he's as reliable as they come. Very strong in the legs, he keeps his feet moving until the play is over, runs hard on every down, runs through arm tackles, shows excellent hands when catching out of the backfield, and is a willing blocker."



29. Andre Jones, Colerain (Cincinnati, Ohio), Sr., S, 6-1, 190, Cincinnati
Jones is an honorable mention at safety and can also play linebacker. Lemming also believes that he has plus skills in the return game, for punts and kickoffs. Lemming says he is "Very athletic, he shows good ball skills and makes plays from sideline to sideline. Blessed with quick feet, he can get to top speed in the wink of an eye and is not afraid of contact."

30. Michael Rose, Rockhurst (Kansas City, Mo.), Sr., LB, 6-0, 230, Nebraska
Rose has a nose for the ball and he's not easily duped by play action, according to Lemming, and he can play inside or outside. He's ranked No. 24 among inside linebackers and honorable mention among the outside linebackers. Rose helped Rockhurst blast its way to a 14-0 record last year and once again the Hawklets are close to the Xcellent 25.
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31. Zach Hoffpauir, Centennial (Peoria, Ariz.), Sr., S-WR, 6-0, 210, California
Hoffpaiur has college size and that should translate well in the defensive backfield. He's a hard hitter and has a nose for the end zone on offense. Centennial has gone 19-3 over the past season and a half, with Hoffpauir playing a large role as the nation's No. 24 safety. According to Lemming, he "Works hard at improving his game, he plays every play like it's his last and is as physical as they come."

32. Johnathan Gray, Aledo (Texas), Sr., RB, 5-10, 202, Texas
Gray is the all-time Texas touchdown king and picked up 1,384 yards in the first five games of the season. He's the No. 8 overall recruit, No. 1 tailback and an honorable mention big back, plus he was a MaxPreps Junior All-American last season. He might even have a shot at the national rushing touchdown record of 204. Lemming says "Explosive" should be Gray's middle name, and that he keeps his feet moving and stays low to the ground. Look for big things in college. (Feature story)

33. Malin Jones, Joliet Catholic Academy (Ill.), Sr., RB, 6-2, 210, Northwestern
Jones is No. 99 overall and the No. 3 big back. He brings the whole package, Lemming says, and that includes smarts, as he is headed to Northwestern and its high academia. He "Has a great second effort, he almost never goes down on first contact and it's his burst, vision, and balance that makes him a special ball player."

34. Warren Ball, St. Francis de Sales (Columbus, Ohio), Sr., RB, 6-2, 200, Ohio State
Ball comes in at No. 9 among big backs, and that's in all likelihood due to Lemming's assertion that Ball is a "Powerful, thick-framed runner with good vision and balance. ... He prefers to run over defenders rather than around them but certainly has the ability to do both. He surprises you with his speed, agility, and hands."

35. Ron Geohaghan, Allendale-Fairfax (Fairfax, S.C.), Sr., S, 6-0, 182, Clemson
Geohagan has helped his team get off to a 7-2 start. According to Lemming, the No. 23 safety in the nation "Shows very good speed and an aggressive style of play to go with a nose for the ball. He studies film, is able to recognize offenses, and is an attacking, hard hitting DB. His film shows him playing OLB, FS, and CB, but is best suited to play FS in college. A terrifically gifted football player who has long snapped and played FB."

36. Tom Strobel, Mentor (Ohio), Sr., DE, 6-6, 250, Michigan
Strobel is a big boy, and he's helped Mentor crash into the Xcellent 25 this week. Lemming says "His motor is always running and plays the game aggressively and with a take no prisoners attitude." Strobel is the No. 20 defensive end in the Class of 2012.



37. Zack Sweet, Goodrich (Mich.), Sr., DE, 6-3, 227, Uncommitted
Sweet is an honorable mention choice at the defensive end position. Goodrich has gone 14-5 in the past season and a half.

38. Mike Scherer, MICDS (St. Louis), Sr., ILB, 6-3, 235, Missouri
Scherer is the No. 22 inside linebacker in the Class of 2012 and has helped the Rams get to 8-0 this season. He was a second-team All-State choice last season as well.

39. Peter Douds, Saguaro (Scottsdale, Ariz.), Sr., K, 5-10, 188, Uncommitted
Douds leads the nation in converted extra points with 64, according to stats supplied to MaxPreps. The next-closest player has 56. Last year, he made 82 extra points and a field goal.

40. Donavin Newsom, Parkway North (St. Louis), Sr., LB, 6-2, 225, Missouri
Newsom is the No. 9 inside linebacker in the Class of 2012 and according to Lemming, "Makes tackles from sideline to sideline, is a very productive run defender within the box, and is able to beat blockers with tremendous quickness and leverage, and just seems to be in on every play. He's even better when free to run and make plays."
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41. Joshua Lang, Clovis West (Fresno, Calif.), Sr., ILB, 6-2, 225, Uncommitted
Lang is an honorable mention player at inside linebacker and according to Lemming, "Shows good quickness, balance, and a nose for the ball. A sure tackler who rarely misses, he's great at diagnosing plays, shows good ball skills, and makes plays in coverage. Needs to add weight and strength but the athletic ability is certainly there."

42. Cole Champion, St. Thomas Aquinas (Fort Lauderdale, Fla.), Sr., LB/S, 6-1, 195, Uncommitted
It's a great last name for a football player, and it's a great program to play in. Champion, an honorable mention player at safety, is listed as a linebacker on the roster. He recorded 68 tackles last year according to submitted stats and was a cog in the national championship team for STA.

43. Doug Brenner, Jesuit (Portland, Ore.), Jr., RB/DL, 6-3, 262, Uncommitted
Brenner is a returning MaxPreps U.S. Air Force Sophomore All-American, where he was credited with anchoring the Jesuit defensive line as a sophomore. This season, the school lists him as a running back — a very large running back.



44. Troy Hinds, Davis (Kaysville, Utah), Sr., DE, 6-5, 230, BYU
Coming in at No. 76 overall in the Class of 2012, Hinds has recorded 51 tackles and is fourth in the state with nine sacks. He's No. 11 among defensive ends, and Lemming says the two-time All-State player could also play outside linebacker in college. "He's a 230-pounder who can get to full speed in a couple of steps and excels at chasing down QB's," Lemming has said. "Shows a very good up field surge, routinely beats blockers off the ball, is an expert at batting."

45. Vince Biegel, Lincoln (Wisconsin Rapids, Wis.), Sr., LB, 6-3, 220, Wisconsin
Nationally, Biegel is No. 95 overall. In Wisconsin, he's No. 1. That has caused a lot of people to overlook him, as Wisconsin is not typically a power state when it comes to producing recruits. Biegel, who is the No. 4 inside linebacker and an honorable mention outside linebacker, is the son of a former top-grade recruit and is lauded for his leadership and technical skills.

46. Tashawn Bower, Immaculata (Somerville, N.J.), Jr., WR/DE, 6-5, 235, Uncommitted
Bower was named to the Class of 2013 Top 100 Watch List. This year he's on an Immaculata team that is 6-0.

47. Quayvon Hicks, Pierce County (Blackshear, Ga.), Sr., RB/DE, 6-2, 245, Georgia
Hicks is an honorable mention choice at running back and defensive end. Lemming focuses on his defensive capabilities, stating that Hicks is "Active against the run, he is able to stack and shed, and get to outside runs. His quickness is big-time." After a disappointing team season last year, Hicks has helped Pierce County jump to a 5-2 record and 4-0 in the region.

48. Quinteze Williams, Sandy Creek (Tyrone, Ga.) Sr., DT, 6-4, 295, Florida
Williams is the No. 17 defensive tackle recruit in the Class of 2012 and just as important, his team has won 36 straight games. He's also an honorable mention player at defensive end. According to Lemming, "Q" is "A very solid tackle who is active, stays square and low, dominates the point of attack, and shows a pretty good burst coming around the corner."

49. Dan Mastromatteo, Holy Spirit (Absecon, N.J.), Sr., LB, 6-3, 230, North Carolina
Mastromatteo is an honorable mention player on the top outside linebacker recruits list. He has 43 tackles in five games so far this season. Lemming says "He's an OLB who can press and leverage the edge, he displays bend and burst, can change directions quickly, and has the closing speed the major schools are looking for. His read and react skills are off the charts. A leader both on and off the field, Dan is a playmaker who gets things done."



50. Trent Taylor, Lake Gibson (Lakeland, Fla.), Sr., DE, 6-3, 245, Miami
Taylor is the No. 16 defensive tackle in the Class of 2012 and an honorable mention defensive end with six sacks and 37 tackles this year. "Trent is a hustler from the word go, he's a power rusher who can bull rush, and a speed rusher who can quickly avoid pass blockers and get to the QB in a hurry. He always seems to get under the blocker's pads and pushes them into the backfield, and sometimes into the QB," says Lemming.
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51. Trey Granier, Thibodaux (Thibodaux, La.), Sr., LB, 6-1, 225, LSU
Granier is No. 93 overall, No. 3 among inside linebackers, and according to Lemming he is the No. 2 player in Louisiana. "He's a tackling machine who has totaled close to 300 tackles over the past two years. He plays the game on his feet and with a chip on his shoulder showing good range and he has proven to be a sure tackler."

52. Clay Norgard, Mountain Vista (Highlands Ranch, Colo.), Sr., LB, 6-2, 245, Colorado
Norgard, the No. 18 inside linebacker and honorable mention at defensive end, is close to surpassing last year's total of 65 tackles. He has 51 so far this year. Last season he also posted six sacks to rank sixth in the state. He's going to stay close to home for college, and he's very versatile. Lemming says he "Proves to be a tackling machine. He shows good knowledge of the game, ball sense, is excellent in pursuit, and exceptionally quick off the ball. He dominates the point of attack be it from DE or ILB. He could play DE, DT, or ILB in college."

53. Jonathan Taylor, Jenkins County (Millen, Ga.), Sr., DT, 6-4, 295, Georgia
Taylor is the No. 64 recruit in the Class of 2012 and the No. 7 defensive tackle. Despite playing in a struggling program, Taylor "Dominated the competition from start to finish in 2010. He's exceptionally quick off the snap, is a super powerhouse who dominates the point of attack, and stops everything up the middle but also shows the great initial quickness and instincts to be a pain in the quarterback's side. He has that rare combination of power, quickness, and flexibility," according to Lemming.

54. Quay Evans, Morton (Miss.), Sr., DT, 6-3, 310, Uncommitted
Evans' attitude shows in his stats. The No. 44 recruit in the nation has posted 54 tackles, three sacks, four forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, a blocked punt and a 2-point conversion so far this year for 7-2 Morton. He does it all and he does it well, and Lemming says the No. 4 defensive tackle in the nation is "Exceptionally aggressive, he plays the game with pride, a great attitude, and with a chip on his shoulder. He hates to be beaten and if he is, it's never repeated. He works hard to improve his game and has the confidence and cockiness enough to want to be the best DT in the country and right now he ranks among the nation's top ten."

55. Jaylen Ruiz, San Joaquin Memorial (Fresno, Calif.), Sr., DE, 6-4, 260, Uncommitted
Ruiz is an honorable mention choice at defensive end for a 6-0 team. Lemming says "He dominates from his DE position impressing you with his explosive moves off the ball and his speed when in pursuit. He shows fast hands, is good at reading blocks, and can run through blockers. He can accelerate quickly down the line and does a good job of getting his hands on blockers and tossing them off balance. Already a dominating ball player in Northern California, with one more year of experience, look out."

56. Jarontay Jones, Stephenson (Stone Mountain, Ga.), Sr., DE, 6-3, 240, Virginia Tech
Jones is the No. 24 defensive end in the country and he's helping Stephenson aim for a Georgia state title, with a 7-0 record. Nicknamed "Stretch" and on the record as saying he wants to set the state sack record of 25, Jones "Shows a great motor and has proven to be a terrific pass rusher who can bend off the edge and explode towards the ball. He goes hard on every down and has the frame to weigh 270 in college. Strong, fast, aggressive, and tough, he's a natural pass rusher."



57. Evan Goodman, Lakeland (Fla.), Sr., OL, 6-5, 280, Arizona State
Goodman's looks match his talent. The No. 45 overall recruit, No. 3 guard/center and an honorable mention choice as a tackle is a physical specimen, according to Lemming. "In person there may not be another lineman in the country who looks better than Mr. Goodman. He could blend in with NFL players and you wouldn't know the difference. ... I believe he will become an All-American at either tackle or guard in college. ... A powerhouse with a bright future."

58. Eddie Goldman, Friendship Collegiate Academy (Washington, D.C.), Sr., DT, 6-4, 315, Uncommitted
Goldman is the No. 18 recruit overall and the No. 2 defensive tackle. He's undoubtedly a run-stuffer in the middle, but Lemming also says he can stop the pass game as well. "This guy gets off the ball like no one's business, is quick as a cat, has super strong hands, and dominates the point of attack. He's a better run stuffer than pass rusher but does well at both. Big, physical and tenacious, he's the most dominating DT prospect in the country." (Feature story)

59. Adam Bisnowaty, Fox Chapel (Pittsburgh), Sr., T, 6-6, 275, Pittsburgh
Bisnowaty, the No. 24 tackle prospect in the nation, is staying close to home with his commitment. Fox Chapel is 2-5 this season, but does have a 2-2 league record.

60. Pat Elflein, Pickerington North (Ohio), Sr., OL, 6-3, 285, Ohio State
Elflein is an honorable mention selection among guards/centers. According to Lemming, "He uses his hands well, fires off the ball, consistently blocks out on the second level, and does a great job of sustaining his blocks. He has a finishers mentality and will not rest until he buries his opponent. A technician with a bright future." Pickerington North is off to a 6-2 start this season.
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61. Colton Hanson, New Braunfels (Texas), Sr., OL, 6-6, 285, Tulane
Hanson is honorable mention at tackle and his New Braunfels team is 4-3 this season.

62. Devon Desper, Madison Central (Miss.), Sr., C, 6-4, 300, Mississippi State
Desper is credited with nine pancake blocks this season and is an honorable mention selection for guards/centers. Lemming says that he is "A solid run blocker who sets a nice, wide base, and shows an aggressive style of play proving to be a very determined and self-driven player. Smart and durable, he understands positioning and is able to effectively block out on the second level." Madison Central finished last season as the No. 7 team in the state according to the Freeman Rankings, and is No. 6 this year.

63. Jeremy Ward, Pottsville (Ark.), Sr., T/NG, 6-4, 280, Arkansas
Ward is the No. 20 guard on the Class of 2012 list and will stay in the Natural State to play for the Razorbacks. Pottsville is off to a 6-0-1 start with Ward playing a large role.



64. Adrian Bellard, Brenham (Texas), Sr., OL, 6-5, 332, Texas A&M
Bellard is an honorable mention player at guard/center and he's helping lead Brenham to a perfect 7-0 record thus far. Brenham was also 10-1 last year. Lemming says "He's a very motivated and quick off the ball OL who gets his hands on the defender right away and can usually take him any direction he would like. He shows the flexibility and lateral skills to pull and trap and is solid as both a pass and run blocker."

65. Jafar Mann, Stephenson (Stone Mountain, Ga.), Sr., DT, 6-4, 275, Florida
Mann lives up to his last name. The No. 12 defensive tackle prospect in the nation impressed Lemming. "He just jumps out at you. He's active, violent, quick as a cat, explosive, and tough. He shows good leverage to hold the point of attack, can split the double-team, and runs as well in short yardage situations as any DT in the south. Once he hits the weight room, look out! He does a great job of chasing plays and you see him making plays downfield more than most DT's."

66. Dorian Miller, Metuchen (N.J.), Jr., OL/DL, 6-4, 295, Uncommitted
Miller was a Sophomore All-American last season and he's helped Metuchen surpass last year's win total just six games into this season. Miller has 28 tackles this season on defense.

67. Josh Garnett, Puyallup (Wash.), Sr., OL/DL, 6-5, 300, Uncommitted
Garnett is the No. 43 overall player and he's No. 2 among guards/centers to go along with an honorable mention status at tackle. Oh, and he was a Junior All-American last season. According to Lemming, "He has what it takes to become an All-American at either tackle or guard in college. He loves to mix it up, he shows good work habits and plays the game on his feet."

68. Taylor Decker, Butler (Vandalia, Ohio), Sr., OL, 6-8, 270, Notre Dame
Decker, the No. 25 tackle in the Class of 2012, is listed as 18 pounds lighter than his junior season. Still, "He can redirect quickly, is quick enough to slide outside and cutoff fast edge rushers, does a good job of sticking with his blocks until the whistle, and plays a very aggressive game and plays that game on his feet. An LT in high school, he should wind up playing LT in college."

69. Ryan Leahy, La Salle (Cincinnati), Sr., DL, 6-6, 260, Cincinnati
Leahy plays in the Greater Catholic League - South in Cincinnati, one of the nation's toughest. The hometown commit helped lead La Salle to a 9-2 mark last season and this season the team is 6-2.



70. John Michael McGee, Texas (Texarkana, Texas), Sr., OL, 6-4, 260, Oklahoma
McGee plays left tackle but his future could include success at guard, Lemming says. "He shows excellent speed for a 260 pounder, he is tenacious, does a good job of finishing his blocks, and is very athletic and strong for his size. A consistently aggressive ball player who plays a physical brand of football with a mean streak a mile long. He always seems to get good positioning and can pull and trap."
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71. John Theus, Bolles (Jacksonville, Fla.), Sr., OL, 6-6, 301, Georgia
Theus is ranked No. 6 overall in the Class of 2012, and is the top tackle. He was a MaxPreps Preseason All-American and though he chose Georgia, he's still looking. Lemming says "He's a gifted athlete with long arms, quick feet and outstanding technique. One of the more athletic 300 pounders you will find, he shows great footwork, an aggressive and tenacious style of play, gets great leverage, dominates the point of attack, always gives good effort, and always plays under control." Bolles is currently 8-0 and No. 25 nationally in the Freeman Rankings.

72. Earl Moore, Hillsborough (Tampa, Fla.), Sr., DT, 6-2, 285, Miami
Moore is the No. 11 defensive tackle in the Class of 2012 and recorded 63 tackles last year in addition to a blocked field goal. Lemming says Moore is "Very strong at the point of attack, he plays with good leverage and can anchor when stopping the run. A good combination of speed, strength, and aggressiveness, he can take on two and sometimes three blockers successfully. He also has the quick burst to apply pressure on the QB. Very strong in legs, he's a powerful bull rusher with strong hands to disengage from blocks. A dominating high school NG."

73. Zach Banner, Lakes (Lakewood, Wash.), Sr., OL/DL, 6-8, 295, Uncommitted
Banner is the No. 17 player in the Top 100 and No. 5 among tackles, along with accolades as a MaxPreps Preseason All-American. Last year he was a MaxPreps Junior All-American and MaxPreps Medium Schools All-American. He's sure to be a hot commodity in recruiting as the months go on. According to Lemming, Banner "May not be as polished as a couple of the other top-rated OL prospects but has more upside than any OL in the country." 

74. Jarron Jones, Aquinas Institute (Rochester, N.Y.), Sr., OL/DL, 6-6, 290, Notre Dame
Jones is lucky No. 13 on the Top 100 recruits list, and he is the No. 3 tackle prospect in the nation. His junior season included 68 tackles and 10 sacks on defense, and this year he's also playing offense. Jones was actually too big to play Pop Warner football, so he got a late start in his development. Despite that, Lemming says he  "Has an explosive first step and the leg drive to consistently drive defenders off the ball. He plays the game with good balance, keeps his shoulders square, shows very good lateral agility to slide and mirror, and seems to have no difficulty at all keeping edge rushers away from his QB." (Feature story)

75. D.J. Humphries, Mallard Creek (Charlotte, N.C.), Sr., OL, 6-6, 265, Florida
Humphries is the No. 12 overall player and No. 2 tackle, plus he's a MaxPreps Preseason All-American. He has long arms and quick feet that should help him in college. Lemming says Humphries is "As fluid as they come, he's an exceptional pass blocker who is aggressive. He can work his way to the second level in the blink of an eye, can bend his knees, is agile as a cat with great balance, and shows the ability to slide outside."

76. Jordan Diamond, Simeon (Chicago), Sr., OL, 6-6, 310, Uncommitted
Diamond is the No. 41 player in the Class of 2012 and he's the No. 7 tackle. Lemming says he is one of the most dominant tackles in the nation (No. 1 in Illinois) and his team has gone 17-2 in the last season and a half. "Blessed with long arms and quick feet, he can effectively block on the second level and eliminate linebackers. He has a take no prisoners' attitude, never lets up, shows good hand/punch in pass protection, can seal and sustain blocks, and he's exceptionally strong at the point of attack. He anchors well and he uses his outstanding athletic ability to slide and mirror and cut off fast edge rushers." (Feature story)



77. J.J. Denman, Pennsbury (Fairless Hills, Pa.), Sr., OL, 6-6, 310, Penn State
Denman comes in at No. 36 overall in the Class of 2012 and No. 6 among tackles. Early in life, he battled with awkwardness regarding his size, and his entrance into high school football wasn't smooth. Fast forward to now, and he's one of the top run blockers in the nation according to Lemming. "He plays in a run-oriented offense and in my opinion is the best run blocker in the country. He needs more experience as a pass blocker but certainly has the size, frame, tenacity and technique to dominate at the college level. Has a take no prisoners attitude and a mean streak a mile wide. He will bury 200 pounders as well as 300 pounders." (Feature story)

78. Freddie Tagaloa, Salesian (Richmond, Calif.), Sr., OL, 6-8, 290, Uncommitted
Tagaloa is No. 69 overall in the Top 100 rankings and he's No. 11 at the tackle position. He's been great in high school, and his potential is even better. According to Lemming, "He's rated this high strictly on potential and God-given size. On film he's a steady, technically sound tackle who improves with every game. An outstanding run blocker, he has an aggressive style of play, is very athletic, can bend his knees, and shows good hand placement and technique." Salesian, just down the road from the University of California, is off to a 6-0 start.

79. Dan Voltz, Barrington (Ill.), Sr., OL, 6-4, 290, Wisconsin
Voltz is No. 67 in the Top 100 and he's the No. 4 prospect among guards/centers in addition to a spot as honorable mention among tackles. Voltz had more than 20 offers but went with Wisconsin, and the Badgers are getting a lineman that Lemming says is "A blue-collar, tough as nails run blocker with a never-say-die attitude. Scouts love his tenacity and production. He's an aggressive, nasty tackle who does a good job of finishing off his blocks. He moves well for a 300 pounder, can redirect, and can slide and mirror to cut off edge rushers."

80. Kenderius Whitehead, Monroe Area (Monroe, Ga.), Sr., OLB, 6-5, 205, Uncommitted
Whitehead is No. 22 among outside linebackers and an honorable mention at defensive end. "Kenderius shows the speed and quickness off the edge that the college scouts like," Lemming says. "His ability to bend off the edge and then explode into the backfield has impressed many a scouts. He shows very quick hands and the ability to play off blocks and find the ball. He has impressed everyone with his hustle, desire, and aggressive style of play. Plays DE in high school and could wind up playing OLB in college."
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81. Sam Grant, St. Edward (Lakewood, Ohio), Sr., TE, 6-7, 240, Boston College
Grant has both parts of the tight end position covered, as Lemming lauds his blocking and receiving skills. The No. 15 tight end in the Class of 2012 was part of a 15-0 team last season and this year's team was ranked in the Preseason Xcellent 25. According to Lemming, Grant "Dominates the point of attack when blocking, is agile enough to take advantage of blocking angles, and has the body control to adjust and make difficult catches look routine. An aggressive run blocker, he works hard to sustain his blocks and is one of the better all around athletes in the state of Ohio. He plays with balance and confidence."

82. Johnny Stuart, Westlake (Westlake Village, Calif.), Sr., TE/DE, 6-4, 250, Uncommitted
Stuart is an honorable mention tight end candidate from one of California's top programs. Last year, he was prolific on defense with 68 tackles, five sacks and an interception.

83. Christo Kourtzidis, Orange Lutheran (Calif.), Sr., TE, 6-4, 230, Florida State
Kourtzidis is the No. 13 tight end in the nation and he is responsible for 25 catches for 261 yards this season to go with a touchdown and a 2-point conversion.

84. Colin Thompson, Archbishop Wood (Warminster, Pa.), Sr., TE/DE, 6-5, 255, Florida
Thompson is No. 7 among Class of 2012 tight ends and he's set to leave Pennsylvania for the warmer weather of Florida. Lemming says "He's the prototypical TE with quick hands, quick feet, runs precise routes, and dominates as a blocker. On a team loaded with Division I players the coach says he may be the best of all of them. A playmaker, he has the quickness and flexibility to dominate as both a receiver and blocker."

85. Korren Kirven, Brookville (Lynchburg, Va.), Sr., DL, 6-4, 279, Uncommitted
Kirven is an honorable mention on the defensive line and according to Lemming, "He proves to be everything you are looking for in a DT. He shows a good burst, great body control, he can get to full speed in a couple of steps, shows a very good up field surge, he routinely beats blockers off the ball, and is an expert at batting down passes."

86. Michael Ebert, Perkins (Sandusky, Ohio), Sr., TE/DL, 6-6, 245, Toledo
Ebert has 12 catches for 149 yards this season along with 39 tackles and a sack. He's an honorable mention pick at tight end.

87. Austin Hoyt, Argonaut (Jackson, Calif.), Sr., TE/DL, 6-7, 250, BYU
Hoyt has done a little bit of everything this season, with seven catches for 265 yards and four touchdowns to go with 40 tackles and a sack. Last season, he posted an impressive 109 tackles and five sacks to go with a fumble recovery and a blocked field goal. He's an honorable mention choice at defensive end.

88. Taylor McNamara, Westview (San Diego), Sr., TE, 6-5, 240, Arizona
McNamara is the No. 2 tight end in the Class of 2012 and has helped Westview jump out to a 5-1 record. 

89. Daniel Beilinson, Panther Creek (Cary, N.C.), Sr., TE, 6-5, 230, Duke
Beilinson is the No. 20 tight end in the Class of 2012 and he's got 20 catches for 264 yards this season. According to Lemming, "He does a good job of working through traffic, finding the open seam, and catching the ball in a crowd. He proves to be an aggressive blocker and a firey competitor who plays hard until the whistle. He does an excellent job of reading coverages and catching the ball with his hands."

90. Malcom Brown, Brenham (Texas), Sr., DT/TE, 6-2, 295, Texas
Brown is the No. 42 overall recruit in the nation and No. 3 at defensive tackle. Last year he recorded 72 tackles. Lemming says "After watching five minutes of Brenham film, Brown becomes a no-brainer. He dominates everything up the middle with his mean, aggressive and nasty style of play. As quick as a cat, he can take on blockers quickly, disengage, then find the ball. A superior talent."
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91. Sheldon Day, Warren Central (Indianapolis), Sr., DL, 6-2, 286, Notre Dame
Day is the No. 18 defensive tackle recruit and he's No. 1 in sacks in Indiana. He has 50 tackles, nine sacks and two fumble recoveries for a nationally ranked 9-0 team. Day finished third in Indiana in sacks last season.

92. Justin Shanks, Prattville (Ala.), Sr., DT, 6-3, 300, Florida State

Shanks is the No. 21 defensive tackle in the Class of 2012 and he has 28 tackles with 1.5 sacks this season. Lemming says "He shows great balance and moves, a surprising burst, and the strength to collapse the pocket. A hard worker who refuses to stay blocked. The key to J-Bear's game is his ability to stop the run. He dominates the middle and can run well laterally."

93. Aaron Curry, Fossil Ridge (Keller, Texas), Sr., DL, Uncommitted
Last year Curry posted 68 tackles and four sacks. This season he has 48 tackles and three sacks.

94. Darius Hamilton, Don Bosco Prep (Ramsey, N.J.), Sr., DL, 6-4, 250, Uncommitted
Hamilton is a major cog on the top team in the nation and the No. 37 player overall. He's the No. 5 defensive end and is the son of a former New York Giants star Keith Hamilton. He's a defensive end in high school but Lemming says Hamilton could end up at defensive tackle. "Darius reminds an awful lot of people of his famous father. He's a long legged, long arm, quick footed, and instinctive pass rusher. A very active DE who gives good effort in pursuit, shows the great closing burst to close, and shows the ability to disrupt the backfield. He uses his strong hands to quickly disengage, shows good pad level, and may not be super fast but is very, very quick."

95. Eric Lee, Daphne (Ala.), Sr., DE, 6-3, 210, Uncommitted
Lee is an honorable mention choice at defensive end and he has 29 tackles to go with three sacks. Daphne is having a stellar season in Alabama, at No. 23 in the Xcellent 25.

96. Marcus Crowder, Eastern Alamance (Mebane, N.C.), Sr., DL/FB, 6-1, 300, Uncommitted
Crowder is an honorable mention choice at defensive end and has 61 tackles and six sacks this season. He has also caused two fumbles and blocked two field goals.

97. Jordan Washington, North Gwinnett (Suwanee, Ga.), Sr., DT, 6-2, 270, Uncommitted
Washington is an honorable mention pick at defensive tackle and was part of a 12-1 team last season.

98. Sheldon Lewinson, Armwood (Seffner, Fla.), Sr., DL, 6-2, 235, Wake Forest
Lewinson has 39 tackles and a sack this season on the No. 2 team in the nation. Last year he had 53 tackles and four sacks.

99. Jelani Hamilton, St. Thomas Aquinas (Fort Lauderdale, Fla.), Sr., DL, 6-5, 250, Miami
Hamilton is the No. 77 recruit in the Class of 2012 and the No. 10 defensive end. Lemming says "Over the past five years Aquinas has produced more Division I players than any other school in the country and this season Hamilton ranks as the top prospect from that very productive school. He possesses great size, football instincts and an aggressive style of play. Best suited to play DE although he could grow into a DT."