11. FloridaNumber of commitments:
16Biggest grab:
Jeff DriskelSleeper:
Valdez ShowersOne that got away:
Mike BellamyEarly impact:
Mike BlakelyAnalysis: This class is not ripe with star recruits, as Gator fans have become accustomed to, but it's certainly not hurting for talent either. If Blakely is healthy, expect him to contribute at running back. He's too talented not to make a quick impact. With Connecticut offensive lineman
Thomas Jordan, Florida continues its recent history of snatching recruits from the Constitution State. With some new faces on staff, Will Muschamp has done a good job retaining most of Urban Meyer's recruits and should do well moving forward.
12. CaliforniaNumber of commitments:
17Biggest grab:
Brendon BigelowSleeper:
Jason GibsonOne that got away:
George AtkinsonEarly impact:
Viliami MoalaAnalysis:
At 19, this Cal class certainly seems underrated. After all, it's
teeming with firepower on both sides of the ball. Bigelow battled
injuries, but if healthy, will flourish in Cal's offense.
Daniel Lasco,
a four-year starter for Texas 5A-power The Woodlands, adds depth at the
position. The Golden Bears' assembly of defensive linemen, with Moala,
Todd Barr,
Mustafa Jalil, and
Brennan Scarlett,
could be the country's best. Gibson, often overshadowed by teammates
George Farmer and Marqise Lee, can likely add to the defensive line or
play with his hand off the ground.
13. OregonNumber of commitments:
21Biggest grab:
Colt LyerlaSleeper:
Tyson ColemanOne that got away:
Johnny ManzielEarly impact:
Tacoi SumlerAnalysis:
There's certainly a good deal for Ducks fans to like about this class.
Not only did Chip Kelly mine Oregon for local talent, but he also
landed significant recruits from across the country, namely Sumler,
fellow Florida product
Jerrard Randall, and Texas linebacker
Anthony Wallace. Oregon could still use a defensive back or two to help a defense that ranked fifth in passing yards allowed in the Pac-10.
14. Virginia
Demetrious Nicholson
Photo by Dan Trevino
Number of commitments:
24Biggest grab:
Demetrious NicholsonSleeper:
Rob BurnsOne that got away:
Travis HughesEarly impact:
Vincent CroceAnalysis:
Mike London has Virginia fans excited. He has heavily tapped into the
Washington, D.C. and Virginia Beach areas, delivering a recruiting
class that will bring lofty expectations. With Nicholson and
Brandon Phelps, the Cavaliers are getting a pair of excellent cornerbacks.
Jay Whitmire and
Daquan Romero were great pick ups on the offensive and defensive lines, respectively.
15. StanfordNumber of commitments:
20Biggest grab:
Wayne LyonsSleeper:
Kevin HoganOne that got away:
Garrett GladdEarly impact:
Amir CarlisleAnalysis: This is the most uncertain class in the Top 20. Stanford typically has a high attrition rate due to its academic standards, but the departure of Jim Harbaugh compounds the situation. Currently, the Cardinal has a solid class, particularly on defense with Lyons,
James Vaughters, and
Anthony Sarao. Carlisle, a speedy back with excellent balance, could push for reps right away, especially on special teams. It's unlikely that Stanford adds any big recruits before National Signing Say, but it could certainly lose some.