NFL Draft Bible Mock Draft 1.0

NFL Draft Bible scouting guru Justin Van Fulpen and talent evaluator Mike Bozarth set the table with the initial first round mock of the 2010 draft season.

1. St. Louis Rams (1-15) - QB Jimmy Clausen*, Notre Dame – The latest rumblings have the Rams potentially trading for Mike Vick and then selecting Ndamukong Suh. Until they obtain a quarterback, the Rams need to start from square one, which means identifying a signal-caller.

2. Detroit Lions (2-14) - DT Ndamukong Suh, Nebraska – The “skinny” 300-pounder wreaks havoc in the middle with his athleticism/burst and is a once-in-a-decade type of player.

3. Tampa Bay Bucs (3-13) – DT Gerald McCoy*, Oklahoma – One of the toughest positions to find a quality, impact starter is defensive tackle and McCoy will likely benefit from this. However, that is not to say he doesn’t possess great upside and top-five talent.

4. Washington Redskins (4-12) - QB Sam Bradford*, Oklahoma – Scouts and NFL-types alike are waiting until Bradford’s private workout (tentatively scheduled for April) to make their judgments. If everything checks out medically, new head coach Mike Shanahan will put his stamp on the team with a new quarterback.

5. Kansas City Chiefs (4-12) – DB Eric Berry*, Tennessee – Some consider Berry to be the best player in this year’s draft, one capable of playing cornerback and both safety positions.

6. Seattle Seahawks (5-11) – DE Derrick Morgan*, Georgia Tech – With Patrick Kerney set to turn 35 this season, the Seahawks will be in a position to nab the most talented defensive end in the draft to start opposite Lawrence Jackson.

7. Cleveland Browns (5-11) - ILB Rolando McClain*, Alabama – An all-around talent who played in a 3-4 defensive scheme in college, McClain would be an ideal fit with the Browns, especially with D’Qwell Jackson coming off a season-ending shoulder injury.

8. Oakland Raiders (5-11) - OT Russell Okung, Oklahoma State – The Raiders need a tremendous amount of help along the offensive line and Okung would be an ideal building block…unlike Robert Gallery, the number two overall pick of the 2004 draft, who has been relegated to backup guard duties.

9. Buffalo Bills (6-10) – OT Anthony Davis*, Rutgers – While the Bills may hope one of the quarterbacks slip to them at number nine, it won’t matter who’s under center if they can’t keep that signal caller upright. They should pounce on Davis, a dominant run blocker who has the potential to be the best left tackle coming out of this draft.

10. Denver Broncos (7-9) – WR Dez Bryant*, Oklahoma State – It could be Christmas in April for the Broncos if the former Okie State Cowboy Bryant slips. With Brandon Marshall on his way out, they would have a ready-made replacement in Bryant, who has a similar skill set and can’t be as big of a drama queen as Marshall.

11. Jacksonville Jaguars (7-9) – DT Brian Price*, UCLA – The Jags would be extremely interested in Derrick Morgan, if he is still around. Derrick Harvey has been less than impressive in his first two seasons, but deserves another year. Both of the Jags’ young defensive ends would benefit from the addition of another talented tackle to go alongside the veteran John Henderson. Price is an extremely talented player that creates disruption in the offensive backfield.

12. Miami Dolphins (7-9) – DT Dan Williams, Tennessee – Williams is a force in the middle, but many question if he is just a one-year wonder. The former Volunteer isn’t the most talented player on the board, but would fill a need for Miami’s 3-4 defense. However, don’t be surprised if the Dolphins look to trade down to accumulate additional picks. If they don’t find anyone willing, they will be satisfied to fill the need.

13. San Francisco 49ers (8-8) – DE Carlos Dunlap*, Florida – Dunlap is one of the most intriguing prospects in the 2010 draft. At 6’6”, 290 pounds he is big enough to play a 3-4 end or be a dominating 4-3 rush end. His DUI during the 2009 season will hurt his draft stock. He will still be a top-15 pick, but if kept his nose clean the former Gator could have been a top-five pick overall.

14. Seattle Seahawks (8-8) – RB C.J. Spiller, Clemson – Even though it looks like the Seahawks found a solid running back in former Cal Golden Bear Justin Forsett, they are not done rebuilding the ground attack. Spiller is an electrifying player; a great receiver and return man whose touches should be spread out. The Seahawks would have a great tandem at running back with the addition of Spiller.

15. New York Giants (8-8) – CB Joe Haden*, Florida – The New York football Giants should do back flips if this former Gator and Thorpe Award finalist drops to them at 15. Big Blue has needs help at all three levels of the defense and Haden is the type of lockdown corner than can make everyone look better.

16. San Francisco 49ers (8-8) – OT Trent Williams, Oklahoma – Once pegged as a sure-fire top-ten pick, Williams is indeed talented…but is probably a little overrated. The biggest question mark is whether he will be a left tackle or right tackle in the NFL, which will determine his value come draft day. The Niners wouldn’t need him to protect the quarterback’s blind side, so this Boomer Sooner would be a true San Francisco treat.

17. Tennessee Titans (9-7) – DE Jason Pierre-Paul*, South Florida – Pierre-Paul is a player that has been flying up boards of late. He could be long gone by the time the Titans pick if he impresses at the NFL Scouting Combine. He is a little raw, but has elite ability which is why he is a lock first rounder despite playing only one season at the Division I level. The Titans could use a shot of youth on their aging defensive line.

18. Pittsburgh Steelers – OG Mike Iupati, Idaho – Iupati is still raw, but his ceiling is high—he’s a potentially dominant interior lineman. He is an extremely physical player that plays the type of football the Steelers are known for. Given time, Iupati could be an elite guard or tackle in the NFL.

19. Atlanta Falcons (9-7) – S Taylor Mays, USC – There are far better all-around safeties still on the board, but Taylor Mays’ combination of elite size and speed will make him the second safety selected. He is a physically-gifted player, but must sharpen up his game to ever have a chance of being an elite NFL player. There is no question that his instincts and awareness are below average.

20. Houston Texans (9-7) – S Earl Thomas**, Texas – Bernard Pollard was a pleasant surprise for the Texans defense last season. Now Houston is searching for a playmaking free safety to pair with Pollard and the former Longhorn Earl Thomas is exactly that. He is a natural ball-hawk with great instincts who excels in coverage.

21. Cincinnati Bengals (10-6) – TE Jermaine Gresham*, Oklahoma – This is a perfect example of team need meeting the best available player. Gresham is one of the best pass-catching tight ends to enter the draft in a long time. He needs to show he is healthy and have a strong showing at the Combine to be selected in the first round.

22. New England Patriots (10-6) – OLB Sergio Kindle, Texas – It will come as no surprise that the Patriots will get great value with this pick. Kindle is a solid all-around player that has the ability to get to the quarterback. He is also capable of playing in a two-point stance or with his hand on the ground, versatility Bill Belichick will put to good use. New England has lost a lot on defense over the last few years, and it looks like they might lose more this off-season. Expect the Pats to select defensive players early and often in the 2010 draft.

23. Green Bay Packers (11-5) – OT Bryan Bulaga*, Iowa – The Packers desperately need to upgrade their offensive line—Aaron Rodgers was hurried and hit way too much in 2009. The team has explosive playmakers that can stretch the field, but Rodgers simply didn’t have the time to throw downfield. Bulaga would provide help on either the left or right side.

24. Philadelphia Eagles (11-5) – MLB Brandon Spikes, Florida – The Eagles are one of the most talented teams in the NFL and there are not many positions they need to address, but they could really use a playmaker at linebacker. Former Gator Brandon Spikes would be a perfect fit for the Eagles—he’s ready to step in and play from day one and would provide leadership as well.

25. Baltimore Ravens (9-7) – WR Golden Tate*, Notre Dame – The Ravens passing game was terrible during the playoffs. Number one wide out Derrick Mason could be headed towards retirement and understudy Mark Clayton is simply not a number one receiver. Tate could step in and make an immediate impact. He is capable of lining up allover the field. With a great offensive line, a Pro Bowl running back, and a young strong-armed passer, it’s a no brainier: the Ravens need a big time playmaker on the outside.

26. Arizona Cardinals (10-6) – OT Bruce Campbell*, Maryland – The Cards could go linebacker with their first pick, but the left tackle position is a more important spot for them to fill. Former top-ten pick Levi Brown is a decent right tackle and should remain on that side. Campbell has a lot of talent and has a good chance of being selected before this, but if he is available here, the Birds shouldn’t hesitate to write his name on their card.

27. Dallas Cowboys (11-5) – S Chad Jones*, LSU – Chad Jones is a playmaker, capable of delivering huge hits. At 6’3”, 230 pounds with speed, Jones could play either the free or strong safety position. He would be a very nice addition to a talented Cowboy defense that at times is still vulnerable to deep plays through the air. He could end up being the second best safety in the 2010 draft.

28. San Diego Chargers (13-3) – RB Jahvid Best*, Cal – With future Hall of Famer LaDainian Tomlinson probably on his way out, or at the very least headed towards a much smaller role, Best would be a great replacement. He is an explosive player with big play ability. The Golden Bear was running very well before suffering a season-ending concussion and back injury. If he gets the green light from the doctors Best should be a first-round pick.

29. New York Jets (9-7) – WR Damian Williams*, USC – The Jets need a more reliable receiver than Braylon Edwards. Williams has good hands, offers big time playmaking ability and would provide former USC teammate Mark Sanchez with a dependable target. Illinois product Arrelious Benn may have more upside but Williams is the safer pick for Gang Green.

30. Minnesota Vikings (12-4) – QB Tim Tebow, Florida – If Brett Favre decides to come back for another year, don’t be surprised if the Vikings look to secure their quarterback of the future. Tebow probably needs to stand on the sideline for a year or two but the Vikings roster is pretty stacked, so it wouldn’t be a huge risk to select one of the greatest college players of all-time.

31. New Orleans Saints (13-3) – OLB Sean Weatherspoon, Missouri – The Saints would have to be thrilled with the addition of a well-polished linebacker like Weatherspoon. With Jonathan Vilma lined up next to him, Weatherspoon could be the Defensive Rookie of the Year. He needs to play a little more under control, but that is something that can be fixed. He is a playmaker with a nose for the ball and will provide great value for a team in need of a defensive shot in the arm.

32. Indianapolis Colts (14-2) – DT Arthur Jones, Syracuse – The Colts will go either defensive tackle or outside linebacker with their first pick. They may have their sights set on Weatherspoon, but will settle for a solid defensive tackle. Jones would help free up pass rushers Jerome Mathis and Dwight Freeney and allow them to wreak even more havoc on opposing quarterbacks.

* Keep a lookout for more Mock Drafts from both Justin Van Fulpen and Mike Bozarth.

* Denotes Junior
** Denotes Red-Shirt Sophomore

Photos Courtesy of Notre Dame Sports Information, College Press Box, Dennis Hubbard, UT Photography, University of California, Syracuse University Athletics

Radio: Draft Digest - 1.17.09

Join NFL Draft Bible President Daniel Mogollon, Executive Editor Ralph Mancini and draft guru Justin VanFulpen as we talk...what else...NFL Draft. From the All-Star games, the NFL Scouting Combine and school pro days, every week we will bring you players to watch and the latest news from the leading authority on the NFL Draft.

When: Sunday January 17

Show Time: 10:00 AM Eastern

Length: 1 Hour

Call In Number: 1.347.945.6275

To Listen Live, Replay or Download - Click Here

Hot Topics:

* The Underclassman List
* Who Should Have Stayed?
* Who Should Have Come Out?
* Our Big Board Top 10
* East-West Shrine Player Watch

Photo Courtesy of Dennis Hubbard

College Football Insiders’ All-Decade Team

New York, NY—College Football Insiders releases its All Decade Team, spanning the years 2000-2009. Eleven players on offense, 11 on defense and four on special teams are honored as first team and second team selections. An additional 33 players received honorable mention honors. The first team unit covers 19 teams from six different conferences. There were four teams with multiple players on the first team.

Tennessee and Alabama each had two players represented. Oklahoma and Miami (FL) led the way with three each. USC’s Reggie Bush made it as a first team running back and punt returner. Among the first and second teams, Oklahoma had six players selected. Miami had four players on the College Football Insiders’ All-Decade Team. USC had four, covering five slots thanks to Reggie Bush being named twice (offense and special teams). Alabama, Michigan and Ohio State were represented with three players. Other schools with multiple selections are Iowa, Arkansas, Wake Forest and Tennessee. Utah’s Jordan Gross is the only player from a non-BCS conference to make the first or second team. Texas had the most honorable mentions with five.

CFI ALL-DECADE FIRST TEAM

Offense
QB-Tim Tebow (Florida)
RB-Reggie Bush (USC)
RB-Adrian Peterson (Oklahoma)
WR-Larry Fitzgerald (Pittsburgh)
WR-Michael Crabtree (Texas Tech)
TE-Kellen Winslow (Miami)
OL-Andre Smith (Alabama)
OL-Jake Long (Michigan)
OL-Shawn Andrews (Arkansas)
OL-Jammal Brown (Oklahoma)
OL-Joe Thomas (Wisconsin)

Defense
DL-Dwight Freeney (Syracuse)
DL-Ndamukong Suh (Nebraska)
DL-Julius Peppers (North Carolina)
DL-Glenn Dorsey (LSU)
LB-Rolando McClain (Alabama)
LB-Derrick Johnson (Texas)
LB-Paul Posluszny (Penn State)
DB-Eric Berry (Tennessee)
DB-Roy Williams (Oklahoma)
DB-Ed Reed (Miami)
DB-Sean Taylor (Miami)

Special Teams
KR-C.J. Spiller (Clemson)
PR-Reggie Bush (USC)
PK-Mike Nugent (Ohio State)
P-Dustin Colquitt (Tennessee)

CFI ALL-DECADE SECOND TEAM

Offense
QB-Matt Leinart (USC)
RB-Darren McFadden (Arkansas)
RB-Mark Ingram (Alabama)
WR-Braylon Edwards (Michigan)
WR-Calvin Johnson (Georgia Tech)
TE-Jermaine Gresham (Oklahoma)
OL-Robert Gallery (Iowa)
OL-Jordan Gross (Utah)
OL-Steve Hutchinson (Michigan)
OL-Greg Eslinger (Minnesota)
OL-Bryant McKinnie (Miami)

Defense
DL-Chris Long (Virginia)
DL-David Pollack (Georgia)
DL-Terrell Suggs (Arizona State)
DL-Tommy Harris (Oklahoma)
LB-Aaron Curry (Wake Forest)
LB-Rey Maualuga (USC)
LB-A.J. Hawk (Ohio State)
DB-Terrence Newman (Kansas State)
DB-Derrick Strait (Oklahoma)
DB-Troy Polamalu (USC)
DB-Mike Doss (Ohio State)

Special Teams
KR-Jeremy Maclin (Missouri)
PR-Maurice Jones-Drew (UCLA)
PK-Nate Kaeding (Iowa)
P-Ryan Plackemeier (Wake Forest)

CFI ALL-DECADE HONORABLE MENTION

Offense: QB Colt McCoy (Texas), QB Jason White (Oklahoma), QB Vince Young (Texas), RB Cedric Benson (Texas), RB Mike Hart (Michigan), RB LaDainian Tomlinson (TCU), WR Dwayne Jarrett (USC), WR Charles Rogers (Michigan State), WR Mike Williams (USC), TE Dallas Clark (Iowa), TE Heath Miller (Virginia), OL Alex Barron (Florida State), OL Jake Grove (Virginia Tech), OL Nick Mangold (Ohio State), OL Dan Mozes (West Virginia), OL Duke Robinson (Oklahoma)

Defense: DL Elvis Dumervil (Louisville), DL John Henderson (Tennessee), DL Jerry Hughes (TCU), DL LaMarr Woodley (Michigan), LB E.J. Henderson (Maryland), LB James Laurinaitis (Ohio State), LB DeMeco Ryans (Alabama), LB Patrick Willis (Ole Miss), DB Michael Huff (Texas), DB Malcolm Jenkins (Ohio State), DB Quinten Jammer (Texas), DB Antrel Rolle (Miami)

Special Teams: KR-Santana Moss (Miami), PR-DeSean Jackson (California), PR-Antonio Perkins (Oklahoma), PK Mason Crosby (Colorado), P Daniel Sepulveda (Baylor)

Photos Courtesy of Dennis Hubbard, University of Arkansas, The Ohio State Department of Athletics

All-College Football Insiders Team

New York, NY—College Football Insiders releases its First Annual All-College Football Insiders teams. Eleven players on offense, 11 on defense and four on special teams are honored as first team, second team and third team selections. An additional 125 players received honorable mention honors—50 on offense, 50 on defense and 25 on special teams. In total, 77 players were selected on the first, second and third team (Clemson’s C.J. Spiller was both a first team All-College Football Insiders kick returner and second team All-College Football Insiders running back).

The first team unit covers 22 teams from eight different conferences, as well as independent Notre Dame. Florida led all teams with three players on the first team. Alabama and Florida State had two players represented on the first team. Stanford’s Toby Gerhart is College Football Insider’s Offensive Player of the Year and Ndamukong Suh of Nebraska is College Football Insider’s Defensive Player of the Year. Alabama’s Nick Saban is College Football Insider’s Coach of the Year.

Offensive Player of the Year: RB Toby Gerhart, Stanford

Defensive Player of the Year: DL Ndamukong Suh, Nebraska

Coach of the Year: Nick Saban, Alabama

CFI FIRST TEAM

Offense
QB-Kellen Moore (Boise State)
RB-Mark Ingram (Alabama)
RB-Toby Gerhart (Stanford)
WR- Mardy Gilyard (Cincinnati)
WR-Golden Tate (Notre Dame)
TE-Aaron Hernandez (Florida)
OL-Russell Okung (Oklahoma State)
OL-Bryan Bulaga (Iowa)
OL-Mike Iupati (Idaho)
OL-Rodney Hudson (Florida State)
OL-Maurkice Pouncey (Florida)

Defense
DL-Ndamukong Suh (Nebraska)
DL-Derrick Morgan (Georgia Tech)
DL-Gerald McCoy (Oklahoma)
DL-Jerry Hughes (TCU)
LB-Greg Jones (Michigan State)
LB-Navorro Bowman (Penn State)
LB-Rolando McClain (Alabama)
DB-Eric Berry (Tennessee)
DB-Joe Haden (Florida)
DB-Patrick Peterson (LSU)
DB-Earl Thomas (Texas)

Special Teams
KR-C.J. Spiller (Clemson)
PR-Greg Reid (Florida State)
PK-Kai Forbath (UCLA)
P-Drew Butler (Georgia)

CFI SECOND TEAM

Offense
QB-Colt McCoy (Texas)
RB- C.J. Spiller (Clemson)
RB- Dion Lewis (Pittsburgh)
WR-Jordan Shipley (Texas)
WR-Freddie Barnes (Bowling Green)
TE-Dennis Pitta (BYU)
OL-Matt Tennant (Boston College)
OL- Jon Asamoah (Illinois)
OL-Mike Johnson (Alabama)
OL-Anthony Davis (Rutgers)
OL-Charles Brown (USC)

Defense
DL-Adrian Clayborn (Iowa)
DL-Robert Quinn (North Carolina)
DL-Terrance Cody (Alabama)
DL-Jared Odrick (Penn State)
LB-Pat Angerer (Iowa)
LB-Brandon Spikes (Florida)
LB-Eric Norwood (South Carolina)
DB-Syd’Quan Thompson (California)
DB-Brandon Harris (Miami)
DB-Robert Johnson (Utah)
DB-DeAndre McDaniel (Clemson)

Special Teams
KR-Chris Owusu (Stanford)
PR-Trindon Holliday (LSU)
PK-Leigh Tiffin (Alabama)
P-Zoltan Mesko (Michigan)

CFI THIRD TEAM

Offense
QB-Jimmy Clausen (Notre Dame)
RB-John Clay (Wisconsin)
RB-Ryan Mathews (Fresno State)
WR-Danario Alexander (Missouri)
WR-Demon Briscoe (Kansas)
TE-Dorin Dickerson (Pittsburgh)
OL-John Jerry (Ole Miss)
OL-Zane Beadles (Utah)
OL-John Moffitt (Wisconsin)
OL-Jason Pinkston (Pittsburgh)
OL-Trent Williams (Oklahoma)

Defense
DL-Von Miller (Texas A&M)
DL-Brian Price (ULCA)
DL-Tyson Alualu (California)
DL-Greg Romeus (Pittsburgh)
LB-Sergio Kindle (Texas)
LB-Sean Weatherspoon (Missouri)
DB-Dominique Franks (Oklahoma)
DB-Amari Spievey (Iowa)
DB-Chad Jones (LSU)
DB-Mark Barron (Alabama)

Special Teams
KR-Brandon Banks (Kansas State)
PR-LaVon Brazill (Ohio)
PK-Blair Walsh (Georgia)
P-Chas Henry (Florida)

CFI Honorable Mention:

Offense: QB Sean Canfield (Oregon State), QB Any Dalton (TCU), QB Jerrod Johnson (Texas A&M), QB Case Keenum (Houston), QB Dan LeFevour (Central Michigan), QB Josh Nesbitt (Georgia Tech), QB Tony Pike (Cincinnati), QB Tim Tebow (Florida), RB Donald Buckram (UTEP), RB Noel Devine (West Virginia), RB Jonathan Dwyer (Georgia Tech), RB Anthony Dixon (Mississippi State), RB LaMichael James (Oregon), RB Bernard Pierce (Temple), RB Jacquizz Rodgers (Oregon State), RB Evan Royster (Penn State), RB Curtis Steele (Memphis), RB Daniel Thomas (Kansas State), RB Keith Toston (Oklahoma State), RB Ryan Williams (Virginia Tech), WR Jonathan Baldwin (Pittsburgh), WR Ryan Broyles (Oklahoma), WR James Cleveland (Houston), WR Eric Decker (Minnesota), WR A.J. Green (Georgia), WR Shay Hodge (Ole Miss), WR James Rodgers (Oregon State), WR Emmanuel Sanders (SMU), WR Greg Salas (Hawaii), WR Demaryius Thomas (Georgia Tech), WR Damian Williams (USC), TE Ed Dickson (Oregon), TE Garrett Graham (Wisconsin), TE Anthony McCoy (USC), TE Tony Moeaki (Iowa), TE Cody Slate (Marshall), OL Clint Boling (Georgia), OL Gabe Carimi (Wisconsin), OL Selvish Capers (West Virginia), OL Brandon Carter (Texas Tech), OL Anthony Castonzo (Boston College), OL John Estes (Hawaii), OL Jason Fox (Miami), OL Colin Madison (Temple), OL Nate Porter (Boise State), OL Matt Reynolds (BYU), OL Dace Richardson (Iowa), OL Nate Solder (Colorado), OL J.D. Walton (Baylor), OL Stefen Wisniewski (Penn State)

Defense: DL Sam Acho (Texas), DL Nate Collins (Virginia), DL Jared Crick (Nebraska), DL Carlos Dunlap (Florida), DL Brandon Graham (Michigan), DL Everson Griffen (USC), DL Cameron Heyward (Ohio State), DL Lamarr Houston (Texas), DL Ryan Kerrigan (Purdue), DL Brandon Lang (Troy), DL Bruce Miller (Central Florida), DL Dontay Moch (Nevada), DL Stephen Paea (Oregon State), DL Jason Pierre-Paul (USF), DL Ricky Sapp (Clemson), DL O’Brien Schofield (Wisconsin), DL Brandon Sharpe (Texas Tech), DL Dan Williams (Tennessee), DL Mick Williams (Pittsburgh), DL Lindsey Witten, DL Willie Young (North Carolina State), LB Reggie Carter (UCLA), LB Rennie Curran (Georgia), LB A.J. Edds (Iowa), LB Ross Homan (Ohio State), LB Cardia Jackson (Louisiana-Monroe), LB Luke Kuechly (Boston College), LB Travis Lewis (Oklahoma), LB Roddrick Muckelroy (Texas), LB Darryl Sharpton (Miami), LB Jesse Smith (Iowa State), LB Stevenson Sylvester (Utah), LB Quan Sturdivant (North Carolina), LB Daryl Washington (TCU), DB Nate Allen (USF), DB Prince Amukamara (Nebraska), DB Javier Arenas (Alabama), DB Morgan Burnett (Georgia Tech), DB Kendric Burney (North Carolina), DB Barry Church, DB Kurt Coleman (Ohio State), DB Perrish Cox (Oklahoma State), DB Ras-I Dowling (Virginia), DB-Van Eskridge (East Carolina), DB-Shiloh Keo (Idaho), DB Taylor Mays (USC), DB Devin McCourty (Rutgers), DB Deunta Williams (North Carolina), DB Trevin Wade (Arizona), DB Kyle Wilson (Boise State)

Special Teams: KR Tyron Carrier (Houston), KR Ray Fisher (Indiana), KR Mardy Gilyard (Cincinnati), KR Dwayne Harris (East Carolina), KR D.J. Monroe (Texas), KR Titus Young (Boise State), PR Javier Arenas (Alabama), PR Antonio Brown (Central Michigan), PR Ryan Broyles (Oklahoma), PR Jeremy Kerley (TCU), PR Jordan Shipley (Texas), PR Damian Williams USC, PK Tyler Bitancurt (West Virginia), PK Matt Bosher (Miami), PK Kevin Goessling (Fresno State), PK Craig Ratanamorn (Marshall), PK Grant Ressel (Missouri), PK Brett Swenson (Michigan State), PK Matt Waldron (Virginia Tech), P Bryan Anger (California), P Brent Bowden (Virginia Tech), P Matt Dodge (East Carolina), P Derek Epperson (Baylor), P Adam Miller (New Mexico), P Rob Long (Syracuse)

Photos Courtesy of David Gonzales, College Press Box, SEC Sports Media

Eric Berry Named Jim Thorpe Award Winner

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - Tennessee defensive back Eric Berry was named winner of the 2009 Jim Thorpe Award during the Home Depot ESPNU College Football Awards Show Thursday night at the Walt Disney World Resourt.

The announcement was made by Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby. The official presentation will take place at a banquet February 8, 2010, in Oklahoma City.

As a sophomore last year, Berry was named the SEC Defensive Player of the Year, a consensus First Team All-American and a finalist for the 2008 Jim Thorpe Award. This year, he again is a consensus First Team All-American and winner of the Thorpe Award over Florida's Joe Haden and Texas' Earl Thomas.

The 2009 award marks the 23rd anniversary of the trophy, first presented in 1986 to Baylor’s Thomas Everett. Last year’s winner was Ohio State University’s Malcolm Jenkins, now playing for the New Orleans Saints.

Thorpe Award winners are selected for performance on the field, athletic ability and character.

The Jim Thorpe Award is a member of the National College Football Awards Association (NCFAA). The NCFAA was founded in 1997 as a coalition of the major collegiate football awards to protect, preserve and enhance the integrity, influence and prestige of the game’s predominant awards. The NCFAA encourages professionalism and the highest standards for the administration of its member awards and the selection of their candidates and recipients. For more information, visit the association’s official Web site, www.NCFAA.org.

Photo Courtesy of Elizabeth Olivier, UTSports.com

College Football Insiders Preview: SEC

For the third straight year, the National Championship winner came out of the SEC and it was the second title victory in three seasons for the Florida Gators. The SEC also sent two teams to a BCS bowl game for the third year in a row—no other conference is having that sort of post-season success. It may be hard to believe but the SEC is going to be better this year than last. The two teams that met in last season’s conference title game return nearly their entire team, contenders LSU and Ole Miss are talented and now more experienced, and Georgia is healthy. It’s going to be hard to predict an order of finish, but it’s safe to say whichever team is left standing after the conference title game will be in the National Title discussion.

The Favorites: Florida & Alabama: They both return a tantalizing, talented, and deep defense. Florida brings back the most experience in the conference and from top to bottom, they have no weaknesses. They have pass rushers, fast linebackers, and a secondary full of future NFL draft picks. Last year’s SEC sack leader, Carlos Dunlap, teams up with senior Jermaine Cunningham to form a lethal defensive-end combo. Those two, along with middle-linebacker and vocal leader Brandon Spikes, will strike fear in the hearts of their SEC opponents. That being said, the best unit of the team might be the secondary. They are physical and will create turnovers, led by safeties Ahmed Black and Major Wright, as well as cornerback Joe Hayden and Janoris Jenkins—four of the conference’s best. On offense, it’s all about Tim Tebow. The Heisman winner from 2007 is a get-it-done type of player who is improving his throwing ability. The break-out star this year for Florida will be tight-end Aaron Hernandez, who possesses good hands and will be the go-to guy around the red zone. The only causes for concern are how well the new offensive-line gels, and how to replace dynamic playmaker Percy Harvin. Their toughest conference matchups will be a trip to Baton Rouge and the game against Georgia, which will take place on a neutral field. The Crimson Tide shares the same uneasiness about losing starters on the offensive line, especially since they’re breaking in Greg McElroy as the new starting quarterback. Despite the O-line concerns, the Tide’s cast of running backs and sophomore receiving sensation Julio Jones give them the offensive weaponry necessary to win the conference. The defense, led by massive Terrance Cody, Lorenzo Washington and linebackers Rolando McClain and Dont'a Hightower, is strong up the middle and can stop the run with the best of them. Their big play guy is Javier Arenas, and Kareem Jackson is ready to have a breakout season. Alabama will have to be on point to start the year as they will face Virginia Tech in their opener. They also have tough games at Ole Miss and against LSU.

The Contenders: LSU & Ole Miss: LSU was a disappointment in 2008. They were a five-loss team with a dreadful passing game and a defense that let up too many big plays through the air. This year, Jordan Jefferson is the new quarterback. He performed well in LSU’s bowl game last season and his mobility will help the Tigers’ offense. But it’s all about Charles Scott, the physical number one back. He’s last year‘s conference touchdown leader and the offensive star who could carry LSU to a title game. A big part of the offense is the play of electric receiver Brandon LaFell. The senior is experienced and has good hands. The defense will be better than a year ago-junior safety Chad Jones is the guy to keep an eye on, he should have a big season. They’re going to need Rahim Alem to continue to be a sack machine, and for Pep Livingston to step up. If those two things happen, the LSU front will be more than difficult to contain. They play what is arguably the toughest conference schedule in the SEC, facing all the top teams-trips to Ole Miss, Georgia, and Alabama plus Florida at home. Nevertheless, they’re contenders along with the new kids on the block, the Mississippi Rebels. The edge that Mississippi has over any SEC West team is at quarterback. Jevan Snead is the top returning passer of the conference and shows no signs of slowing down. Even though they lost deep threat Mike Wallace, the Rebels return Shay Hodge, who caught everything (including eight touchdowns) last season. Wide receiver Dexter McCluster was second in the SEC in all-purpose yards, racking up receiving yards and big rushes out of the “Wild Rebel” formation. Because they bring back some dazzling ball-carriers, the offensive line could be the difference between the team being mediocre and playing for a SEC title. The departure of Michael Oher is a big loss and with only two returning starters back the lack of experience could end up catching up to them. If the line does hold up, expect big things from sophomore Brandon Bolden. He excelled down the stretch of last season, averaging 5.5 yards a carry and five touchdowns.

The Sleeper: Georgia: The Bulldogs have a chance to be a better team despite losing Matthew Stafford and Knowshon Moreno. The reason—they’ll have a healthier team. Yes, Georgia was a top team last year but injuries really set them back at times, especially in the trenches. The defense will greatly benefit from healthier players. Returning from injury is senior Jeff Owens, who along with Geno Atkins gives them two All-Conference tackles. They missed Owens last season, and struggled to stop teams who played smash-mouth football. The team’s leading tackler, linebacker Rennie Curran, returns, as does playmaker Akeem Dent. The offensive line also suffered from injuries last year. The unit is the strong suit of the offense and will be able to block for Moreno’s replacement, most likely Richard Samuel. If quarterback Joe Cox has the intangibles as described and can get the ball to A.J Green, the Bulldogs could surprise some people.

Offensive Player of the Year: QB Tim Tebow (Florida) vs. QB Jevan Snead (Ole Miss): Tim Tebow is the returning SEC offensive player of the year and without question, the favorite to win the award again. Last year he was in the top ten in the conference in both passing and rushing. Tebow’s duel threat ability puts him in a class of his own, but his stats could go down in 2009—his carries diminished last year and replacing Harvin will be no easy task. That’s why Jevan Snead must be mentioned as a top contender for the award. He was overshadowed last year by Tebow and Matthew Stafford and his overall numbers suffered because of a suspect start to the season. This year Snead will come out of the gate strong, and with an array of receivers around him, he’ll be airing it out plenty.

Honorable Mention: RB Charles Scott (LSU), RB Michael Smith (Arkansas), WR Julio Jones (Alabama), WR A. J. Green (Georgia)

Defensive Player of the Year: S Eric Berry (Tennessee) vs. DE Carlos Dunlap (Florida): Like the offensive award, the returning Defensive Player of the Year is back, too. Tennessee’s Eric Berry was awesome last year, winning the award as a sophomore. He led the conference in interceptions and led a very good Vols’ secondary. He was the team’s MVP, the one bright spot of their 5-7 season. The defense is better this year, and Berry will be as dangerous as ever. But he wasn’t the only sophomore defensive star in the conference. The Gators’ Carlos Dunlap led the SEC in sacks and was the defensive MVP of the title game. He’s relentless, finishes out plays, and is a great pass rusher.

Honorable Mention: DE Rahim Alem (LSU), DL Malcolm Sheppard (Arkansas), LB Joran Norwood (South Carolina), LB Rolando McClain (Alabama), LB Brandon Spikes (Florida)

Breakout Seasons: QB Jordan Jefferson (LSU) & RB Richard Samuel (Georgia): Jordan Jefferson’s performance against Georgia Tech in the Peach Bowl gave SEC fans a glimpse of what LSU could do if they had a decent quarterback. I think Jefferson will be more than just decent this year—he showed he had a good arm in the three games he started in 2008 and with a real good group of receivers, he has the tools around him. What Jefferson also has is mobility. The Bulldogs’ Richard Samuel had a fantastic summer after missing the spring with a wrist injury. He won the job over the favorite Caleb King and speedster Carlton Thomas, and with the Georgia offensive line now healthy, Samuel is poised for a great 2009 campaign.

Best Pro Prospect: Eric Berry, Tennessee: Eric Berry has a long list of accomplishments already. He’s won Defensive Player of the Year and All-American honors, and is a Nagurski Trophy candidate. He led the nation in interceptions and is 15 yards away from becoming the NCAA’s all-time leader in interception return yardage. Berry has no weaknesses and is playmaker of the highest caliber. He is a tremendous pass defender, always making things happen and getting to the ball, to the tune of 13 passes broken up last year. The Vol is a top prospect—he’s quick, skillful, and physical. In other words, he’s a complete player and a future NFL safety.

College Football Insiders Picks:

Conference Champion: Alabama Crimson Tide: Even though they have to break in a new quarterback, Alabama is a favorite in the conference and the pick to win it. Julio Jones is a star wide-out and one of the most dangerous offensive players in the nation. He will continue to thrive, making plays all over the field with the ball, plus running back Mark Ingram is primed for a break-out season. They’re good on offense and dominate on defense. There is nothing not to like about the big D; they have run stoppers and shut down players in the secondary. The team that was so close last year gets it done this year. Trust Nick Saban to make this prediction come true.

Offensive Player of the Year: QB Jevan Snead, Ole Miss: This is a long shot considering he’s going up against a Heisman trophy winner, but Jevan Snead’s going to beat out Tim Tebow for this award. There is a lot of pressure on Snead to have a big season and I believe he will respond and flourish. With his talent and the versatility and athleticism around him, he’s going to have a good year both in the win column and statistically. With another year leading this offense and learning Houston Nutt’s system, Snead is really going to be big. (Note: Yes, I filled this out myself and no, I will not be taking it back.)

Defensive Player of the Year: DE Carlos Dunlap, Florida: Returning sack leaders don’t usually put up the same numbers in their encore seasons, but Carlos Dunlap will be an exception to that trend. His skill, pass rushing, and production all improved throughout 2008 and I think he will continue that momentum into this year. Because Florida has a very good defensive line and is effective when blitzing, opponents won’t be able just key in on Dunlap. The more one-on-ones he receives as a result, the better his numbers will be. By the end of 2008, Dunlap was a different player. If he plays the whole year like he did in the title game, double-teams won’t even matter.

Photos Courtesy of SEC Sports Media

CFI Countdown: #24 Tennessee Volunteers

2008 Record: 5-7 (SEC: 3-5)
Bowl Game: Did not make a bowl
Location: Knoxville, Tennessee
Stadium: Neyland Stadium (100,011)
Head Coach: Lane Kiffin
Overall: 0-0 (1st season)
@ Tennessee: 0-0 (1st season)
Link to UT Football Page

In case you hadn’t heard…there’s a new sheriff in Knoxville, and his name is Lane Kiffin. Whether or not you like Kiffin’s methods of calling attention to himself and his program, it is hard to deny that Monty’s son has infused the Vols with much-needed attitude and energy. Not to mention a talented recruiting class and star-studded coaching staff.

When the Volunteers Have the Ball

Offensive Coordinator: Jim Chaney (1st Season)
Scheme: Pro Style
Starters Returning: Six
Key Losses: OT Anthony Parker, RB Arian Foster, RB Lennon Greer (Left School), WR Austin Rogers (Injury), WR Lucas Taylor

Even with the status of highly touted and highly controversial recruit Bryce Brown—considered the number one tailback by most and the number one overall recruit by some—in limbo, Tennessee figures to have a solid stable of backs. Senior Montario Hardesty figures to be the starter on September 5th versus Western Kentucky, but he will be pushed by a pair of youngsters—sophomore Tauren Poole and true freshman David Oku, who joined Brown as a top-five back coming out of high school. Tight ends Jeff Cottam and Luke Stocker are solid, and the receiving corps has more potential than one would think at first glance. Look for juniors Gerald Jones and Brandon Warren, and senior Quinton Hancock to start to fulfill their potential, as well as big-play man Denarius Moore when he returns from foot surgery. The offensive line is very solid on the inside led by veteran center Josh McNeil, with fellow senior left tackle Chris Scott holding the key to the line’s success. The key to the team’s offensive success is quarterback, Jonathan Crompton, who has underperformed throughout his career to this point. He has room to improve when it comes to his accuracy, poise, and decision-making.

Top Pro Prospects: 1) C Josh McNeil (SR), 2) TE Luke Stocker (JR), 3) OT Chris Scott (SR)

When the Other Team Has the Ball

Defensive Coordinator: Monty Kiffin (1st Season)
Scheme: 4-3 Tampa Two
Starters Returning: Five
Key Losses: DE Robert Ayers, DT Demonte Bolden, LB Elix Wilson, CB DeAngelo Willingham, SS Demetrice Morley (Kicked Off Team)

Not only is Eric Berry the best defender in Rocky Top, he is hands down the top defensive player in the SEC (maybe the nation) and probably the most dynamic Vols player with the pigskin in his hands, evidenced by his amazing 487 return yards on 12 interceptions (14 yards short of the NCAA record). He leads what should be a talented secondary, which features speedsters Brent Vinson and Dennis Rogan with solid depth all-around. The defensive line looks to be in fine shape as well despite the loss of first-round pick Robert Ayers. Tackle Dan Williams a force on the inside and junior end Chris Walker is poised to bust loose in his first season as a starter. Rico McCoy, their best defender not named Berry, leads a mediocre group of linebackers from his weakside position. Remember, defense was not the problem last season—the Vols ranked 10th in the nation in scoring defense and third in total defense.

Top Pro Prospects: 1) SS Eric Berry (JR), 2) LB Rico McCoy (SR), 3) CB Brent Vinson (JR)

The Schedule

While everyone is pointing to their September 19th showdown in Gainesville (I wonder why?), the real Murderers’ Row comes in October when they face Auburn, Georgia, Alabama (on the road) and South Carolina—four probable bowl teams. They also make a trip to Ole Miss in November. If Kiffin can conjure up an upset versus Florida, Georgia, Alabama or Mississippi—no easy task—a nine-win regular season in year one is a possibility.

Pivotal Point

Considering the Vols finished 107th in passing offense, 110th in scoring, and 115th in total offense with the quarterbacks failing to complete half of their passes with a mere eight scoring strikes (nine interceptions), the easy answer is quarterback. But that would be too simplistic. It isn’t just Crompton—once the nation’s second-rated quarterback coming out of high school—who needs to live up to the recruiting hype. We are talking about defensive ends Walker, Ben Martin, and Gerald Williams, tackle Scott, and running back Hardesty, among others. Then of course, there are the stars—four- and five-star recruits, that is—of the 2009 class with wide out Nu’Keese Richardson and defensive back Janzen Jackson joining backs Brown and Oku in the youth movement.

CFI Final Analysis

With his bravado and antagonizing nature, no one has placed a bigger bull’s-eye on their chest than Lane Kiffin. But for all the hype and hoopla, as always, it comes down to one thing—wins and losses (I guess that’s two things). Many will be rooting for the Florida Gators to give the Vols their comeuppance—and they may—but that won’t stop Tennessee from bouncing back and winning nine games. It’s not how Kiffin’s first season starts, but how it ends which will count.

Check back tonight to see who is #23 in CFI’s Top 25 Countdown

Photo Credit: SEC Sports Media, Elizabeth Olivier, UTSports.com

SEC FOOTBALL INDIVIDUAL AWARDS ANNOUNCED

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. -- Florida quarterback Tim Tebow, Tennessee defensive back Eric Berry and Florida return specialist Brandon James were voted as the Southeastern Conference’s top offensive player, top defensive player and top special teams player, respectively, in a vote of the league’s coaches, it was announced on Wednesday.

The league’s coaches also selected Tebow and Georgia wide receiver A.J. Green as the league’s scholar-athlete of the year and top freshman performer, respectively.

Ole Miss offensive tackle Michael Oher was selected as the recipient of the Jacobs Trophy, given to the league’s top blocker. Ole Miss’ Houston Nutt, Vanderbilt’s Bobby Johnson and Alabama’s Nick Saban were all voted by their peers as the SEC Coaches of the Year and will share the award.

All of this year’s individual award winners were named first-team All-SEC in voting by the league’s coaches that was announced on Tuesday, outside of Green, who was second team. There were no unanimous selections to this year’s individual awards.

Tebow leads the SEC in completion percentage (64.9), touchdowns (28) and passing efficiency (176.7), while also owning the lowest interception percentage in the league (.7). Tebow's on the field accomplishments include being the only sophomore ever to win the Heisman Trophy. Also, he is the only player in NCAA history to rush and pass for at least 20 touchdowns in a season and ranks first in Florida's record book for the most career rushing touchdowns. He has thrown for 5,557 yards and 56 touchdowns in three seasons, while having also gained 1,757 yards on the ground with 42 rushing touchdowns, both school records by a Florida quarterback.

Berry, one of only two unanimous selections to the first team, is tied atop the FBS with seven interceptions and posted school and conference records for interception return yards with 265. The Fairburn, Ga., native also finished third on the team with 72 tackles from his strong safety position. He was named SEC Defensive Player of the Year by the Associated Press on Monday.

James has scored two touchdowns off punt returns this season and is currently tied with Jacquez Green (1995-97) for the school record for career punt returns for a touchdown with four. His 687 kick return yards are the second- highest single season total in UF history and he improved his single-season punt return yards record to 509 after the Alabama game. James ranks fifth all-time in SEC history in total kick return yards, including kickoff and punt returns, with 3,037 total yards. He set an SEC Championship game record with five kickoff returns for 121 yards.

Green leads the SEC with 951 yards receiving for an average of 79.2 yards per game. He has hauled in 55 passes including eight touchdowns and is looking to become the first Bulldog to lead the SEC in receiving since Brice Hunter in 1994. For freshmen, he would be the first to lead the league in receiving yards per game since 1999.

Tebow carries a 3.70 grade point average, earning the honor of 2007 SEC Academic Honor Roll recipient. Tebow was also the second sophomore football player in school history to earn ESPN.com Academic All-America first-team honors in the 2007 season. Thanks to Tebow, Florida became one of only three schools to have a Heisman winner receive Academic All-America honors in the same year.

Paving the way for the Ole Miss offense is Oher. Ole Miss ranks in the top four in the SEC in total offense, scoring, rushing and passing. Oher was named first team All-SEC by the coaches and was one of six unanimous selections on the Associated Press first team.

Nutt, in his first year at the helm of the Ole Miss football program, led the Rebels to an 8-4 record and a trip to the Cotton Bowl. Ole Miss finished second in the SEC West. Saban, in only his second year at Alabama, led the Tide to a perfect 12-0 regular season, the SEC Western Division Championship and a No. 1 national ranking. Johnson led Vanderbilt to six wins and their first bowl berth since the 1982 season.

2008 SEC FOOTBALL INDIVIDUAL AWARDS

Scholar-Athlete of the Year
Tim Tebow, QB, Florida

Offensive Player of the Year
Tim Tebow, QB, Florida

Defensive Player of the Year
Eric Berry, DB, Tennessee

Special Teams Player of the Year
Brandon James, RS, Florida

Freshman of the Year
A.J. Green, WR, Georgia

Jacobs Blocking Trophy
Michael Oher, Ole Miss

Photo Credit: SEC Sports Media, College Press Box

2008 ALL-SEC FOOTBALL TEAM ANNOUNCED

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. -- SEC Western Division Champion Alabama had a league-high 10 representatives on the 2008 All-Southeastern Conference Coaches’ Football Team, while SEC Champion Florida had nine, the league office announced on Tuesday. Both Alabama and Florida had five members each on the first team.

Ten of the 12 SEC schools had a member on the first-team All-SEC squad. Georgia, Kentucky and LSU had three players on the first team with Ole Miss, South Carolina and Tennessee with two each.

Georgia had six total representatives on the annual list. Alabama had a league-high five players on the second unit followed by Arkansas and Florida with four. Georgia and Ole Miss had three each.

Every SEC squad had at least two players represented on the first and second teams.

There were only two unanimous selections to this year’s All-SEC squad - Georgia running back Knowshon Moreno and Tennessee defensive back Eric Berry. Coaches were not permitted to vote for their own players, thus a unanimous selection earns 11 of 12 first-team votes.

The All-SEC squad had nine first-team seniors (only two on defense) and 18 underclassmen, including 14 juniors and four sophomores and one freshman. There were no freshmen on the first team. Wide receivers Julio Jones of Alabama and A.J. Green of Georgia were both recognized on the second team and were the only freshmen listed. Alabama junior Javier Arenas made the team twice - once as a second-team return specialist and once as a second-team defensive back.

The SEC individual award winners will be released on Wednesday and the SEC All-Freshman Team will be announced on Thursday.

2008 ALL-SEC FOOTBALL TEAM
(*-Ties / #-Unanimous Selection) (Coaches could not vote for their own players)
FIRST-TEAM ALL-SEC -- OFFENSE
Pos. Name School Ht. Wt. Class Hometown
TE Jared Cook South Carolina 6-5 240 Jr. Suwanee, Ga.
OL Andre Smith Alabama (T) 6-5 330 Jr. Birmingham, Ala.
OL Michael Oher Ole Miss (T) 6-5 318 Sr. Memphis, Tenn.
OL Phil Trautwein Florida (T) 6-6 310 Sr. Voorhees, N.J.
OL Herman Johnson LSU (G) 6-7 375 Sr. Olla, La.
C Antoine Caldwell Alabama (C) 6-3 305 Sr. Montgomery, Ala.
WR Percy Harvin Florida 5-11 195 Jr. Virginia Beach, Va.
WR Mohamed Massaquoi Georgia 6-2 204 Sr. Charlotte, N.C.
QB Tim Tebow Florida 6-3 240 Jr. Jacksonville, Fla.
RB #Knowshon Moreno Georgia 5-11 208 So. Belford, N.J.
RB Charles Scott LSU 5-11 233 Jr. Saline, La.

SECOND-TEAM ALL-SEC -- OFFENSE
Pos. Name School Ht. Wt. Class Hometown
TE *Richard Dickson LSU 6-3 246 Jr. Ocean Springs, Miss.
TE *D.J. Williams Arkansas 6-2 250 So. Little Rock, Ark.
OL Garry Williams Kentucky (T) 6-3 300 Sr. Louisville, Ky.
OL Anthony Parker Tennessee (G) 6-3 300 Sr. Jonesboro, Ga.
OL *Ciron Black LSU (T) 6-5 325 Jr. Tyler, Texas
OL *Mike Pouncey Florida (G) 6-5 312 So. Lakeland, Fla.
OL *John Jerry Ole Miss (T) 6-5 350 Jr. Batesville, Miss.
OL *Mike Johnson Alabama (G) 6-6 299 Jr. Pensacola, Fla.
C Jonathan Luigs Arkansas (C) 6-4 314 Sr. Little Rock, Ark.
WR Julio Jones Alabama 6-4 210 Fr. Foley, Ala.
WR A.J. Green Georgia 6-4 200 Fr. Summerville, S.C.
QB Matthew Stafford Georgia 6-3 228 Jr. Dallas, Texas
RB Glen Coffee Alabama 6-1 198 Jr. Ft. Walton Beach, Fla.
RB Michael Smith Arkansas 5-7 173 Jr. Tallahassee, Fla.

FIRST-TEAM ALL-SEC -- DEFENSE
Pos. Name School Ht. Wt. Class Hometown
DL Peria Jerry Ole Miss 6-2 290 Sr. Batesville, Miss.
DL Terrence Cody Alabama 6-5 365 Jr. Ft. Myers, Fla.
DL *Robert Ayers Tennessee 6-3 270 Jr. Clio, S.C.
DL *Antonio Coleman Auburn 6-3 250 Jr. Mobile, Ala.
LB Brandon Spikes Florida 6-3 245 Jr. Shelby, N.C.
LB Rennie Curran Georgia 5-11 228 So. Snellville, Ga.
LB *Eric Norwood South Carolina 6-1 253 Jr. Acworth, Ga.
LB *Rolando McClain Alabama 6-4 249 So. Decatur, Ala.
LB *Micah Johnson Kentucky 6-2 250 Jr. Ft. Campbell, Ky.
DB #Eric Berry Tennessee (S) 5-11 195 So. Fairburn, Ga.
DB D.J. Moore Vanderbilt (CB) 5-10 182 Jr. Spartanburg, S.C.
DB Trevard Lindley Kentucky (CB) 6-0 175 Jr. Hiram, Ga.
DB Rashad Johnson Alabama (S) 6-0 186 Sr. Sulligent, Ala.

SECOND-TEAM ALL-SEC -- DEFENSE
Pos. Name School Ht. Wt. Class Hometown
DL Greg Hardy Ole Miss 6-4 265 Jr. Millington, Tenn.
DL *Myron Pryor Kentucky 6-1 310 Sr. Louisville, Ky.
DL *Malcolm Sheppard Arkansas 6-3 277 Jr. Bainbridge, Ga.
DL *Sen’Derrick Marks Auburn 6-2 296 Jr. Mobile, Ala.
LB Dominic Douglas Miss. State 6-2 235 Sr. Clinton, Miss.
LB Patrick Benoist Vanderbilt 6-0 222 Jr. Southlake, Texas
LB Jasper Brinkley South Carolina 6-2 269 Sr. Thomson, Ga.
LB Rico McCoy Tennessee 6-1 220 Jr. Washington, D.C.
DB Emanuel Cook South Carolina (S) 5-10 203 Jr. Riviera Beach, Fla.
DB *Javier Arenas Alabama (CB) 5-9 198 Jr. Tampa, Fla.
DB *Ahmad Black Florida (SS) 5-9 190 So. Lakeland, Fla.
DB *Joe Haden Florida (CB) 5-11 185 So. Ft. Washington, Md.
DB *Derek Pegues Miss. State (S) 5-10 196 Sr. Batesville, Miss.

FIRST-TEAM ALL-SEC -- SPECIAL TEAMS
Pos. Name School Ht. Wt. Class Hometown
PK Colt David LSU 5-9 172 Sr. Grapevine, Texas
P Tim Masthay Kentucky 6-2 203 Sr. Murray, Ky.
RS Brandon James Florida 5-7 186 Jr. St. Augustine, Fla.

SECOND-TEAM ALL-SEC -- SPECIAL TEAMS
Pos. Name School Ht. Wt. Class Hometown
PK Joshua Shene Ole Miss 5-8 170 Jr. Oklahoma City, Okla.
P *Brian Mimbs Georgia 5-11 209 Sr. Dublin, Ga.
P *Chas Henry Florida 6-4 215 So. Dallas, Ga.
RS Javier Arenas Alabama 5-9 198 Jr. Tampa, Fla.

CFI Q & A of the Week: Eric Berry, Tennessee

Eric Berry, aka the fifth dimension, is the stellar second year safety for the Tennessee Volunteers.

CFI: Tell us about playing safety?

BERRY: I really didn’t play corner any time during my life until the Army All-American game. I grew up as a safety and when they moved me to safety up here, I felt like I was at home. It was just a matter of me learning the schemes and the plays. I just love to play this game. I play it passionately, play every play full speed.

CFI: You already set the SEC all-time record for interception return yards. Talk about going from defense to offense so seamlessly.

BERRY: I’ve played offense all my life. This is the first time I’ve played strictly defense. When the ball gets in my hands, it’s a flashback of me being on offense and making plays. I guess you could say I have a split personality on the field. I just want to find a way to help my team win.

CFI: How about Tennessee potentially installing the “Wild Berry” formation?

BERRY: When that time comes and Coach (Phillip Fulmer) feels I’m ready for it, he’ll call my number. Until then, I’m going to focus on defense and try to get things right on the defense.

CFI: Isn’t playing offense something you’d love to do?

BERRY: Yes it is, but even if I don’t, I’m still satisfied just playing defense.

CFI: What do you do to pass the time off the field?

BERRY: We always have a Madden competition throughout the week. I’m currently on top right now. I had a ten-game winning streak until Savion (Frazier) broke it earlier this week. His profile on the game is “14-Sucks” (laughs). We’ve been going head-to-head battling on the Madden.

CFI: What kind of safeties do you like?

BERRY: I like safeties like Bob Sanders, who can do a little bit of covering, a little bit of blitzing, a little bit of hard hitting…everything. I just like ballplayers.

CFI: How many friends do you have on your Facebook page?

BERRY: I just added around 430 today, so it has to be around 7,000 right now.

Football Fan's Four-Pack - Week Ten

By JOHN GARRETT

Northwestern at Minnesota (November 1, 12:00, ESPN2): Two things were lost last week for the Wildcats: a 21-19 decision at Indiana and their top offensive player—senior running back Tyrell Sutton—who is out for the season. The No. 20 Golden Gophers come into homecoming riding a three-game winning streak. The Minnesota defense has been instrumental in the past three victories, allowing just six points and 109 passing yards in last Saturday’s win over Purdue. Both teams have bounced back from disappointing 2007 seasons due largely to their defensive improvements. Through eight games, the Gopher defense has allowed 137 points, while the Wildcats have allowed 146.

Super Senior: William VanDeSteeg, DE, UM

Star of Tomorrow: Vince Browne, DE, NU

Nebraska at Oklahoma (November 1, 8:00, ESPN): The No. 4 Sooners and Cornhuskers will meet for the 84th time in the history of the series Saturday at Owen Field. One thing that Nebraska will do to try to match the speed of the Sooners is line up redshirt freshman Marcus Mendoza at wide receiver. Coach Bo Pelini hopes the speedster from Texas is able to create some mismatches against the OU defense. On the injury front, senior running back Marlon Lucky should be able to go on Saturday after suffering a minor ankle injury in the Huskers’ victory over Baylor last weekend.

Super Senior: Joe Ganz, QB, Nebraska

Star of Tomorrow: Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma

Tennessee @ South Carolina (November 1, 7:00, ESPN2): Coming off a bye-week and having won four of their previous five contests, the Gamecocks will host the Volunteers at Williams-Brice Stadium. But keep in mind that South Carolina hasn’t defeated Tennessee at home since a win on Halloween in 1992. The Volunteers lead the all-time series 21-3-2 dating back to 1903.

Super Senior: Carlos Thomas, CB, USC

Star of Tomorrow: Eric Berry, DB, Tennessee

Wisconsin @ Michigan St. (November 1, 12:00, ESPN): The Badgers have won seven of the last 10 meetings between the schools, but fell 49-14 in their last trip to Spartan Stadium in 2004. Wisconsin’s defense will get to know the senior running back for the No. 22 Spartans, Javon Ringer, before the day is through. Ringer currently leads the country in touchdowns (16) and ranks second in the nation in rushing (1,373), as well as all-purpose yardage (1,717).

Super Senior: Otis Wiley, S, Michigan State

Star of Tomorrow: David Gilreath, WR, UW

Photo Credit: OU Athletics Department

CFI RANKINGS: #14 TENNESSEE VOLUNTEERS

2007 RECORD: 10-4; SEC: 6-2
Won Outback Bowl vs. Wisconsin 21-17
LOCATION: Knoxville, Tennessee
STADIUM: Neyland Stadium (102,038)
HEAD COACH: Phillip Fulmer
OVERALL: 147-45 (16 seasons)
AT TENNESSEE: 147-45 (16 seasons)

There are high expectations in Rocky Top. Many are focusing on the fact that Tennessee hasn’t won a conference title since 1998 when they went a perfect 13-0 and won the BCS Championship. It doesn’t help that the Florida Gators won it all in 2006 and are led by Heisman Trophy winner Tim Tebow or that the Georgia Bulldogs ended last season ranked No. 2 in the country and enter this season at No. 1. The Vols did win the SEC East last season, but will be hard pressed to make their way back to the SEC Championship game in 2008.

WHEN THE VOLS HAVE THE BALL

OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR: Dave Clawson (1st Season)
OFFENSIVE STARTERS RETURNING: 8
KEY LOSSES: Erik Ainge, LaMarcus Coker, Brad Cottam, Chris Brown

Jonathan Crompton is entering his first season as the starting quarterback and he is set for success. Tennessee returns all five starters along the offensive line, a line that allowed only four sacks the entire 2007 season for an offense that aired the ball out over 500 times. Joining Crompton in the offensive backfield is Arian Foster who, barring injury, will leave Knoxville as the school’s all-time leading rusher. Backups Montario Hardesty and sophomore Lennon Creer are capable ball carriers. Also returning are the Vols’ top three receivers, Lucas Taylor, Austin Rogers and Josh Briscoe—all three had 50-plus catches for at least 500 yards last season. Look for super soph Gerald Jones to break out as a receiver and runner—he will even line up in the shot-gun at times. Crompton remains unproven but the highly touted signal caller has the strong arm and athleticism to flourish.

TOP PROSPECTS: 1) WR Gerald Jones (SO), 2) OG Anthony Parker (SR)

WHEN THE OTHER TEAM HAS THE BALL

DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR: John Chavis (14th Season/20th at Tennessee)
DEFENSIVE STARTERS RETURNING: 6
KEY LOSSES: Jerod Mayo, Jonathan Hefney, Ryan Karl, Xavier Mitchell, Antonio Reynolds

The Vols’ secondary is stacked, beginning with the dynamic duo of Eric Berry and Demetrius Morley at safety. Berry lived up to the hype in his true freshman season, while Morley returns after missing last year due to off-the-field issues. They are talented at cornerback as well, where sophomores Dennis Rogan and Brent Vinson are competing for playing time. Junior LB Rico McCoy leads the front seven and should take over for Jerod Mayo and the lead the club in tackles. He’s undersized, but is a blur once he gets his sights set on the football and he packs a wallop when he gets there. The key will be the play of a pair of seniors along the defensive line, DE Robert Ayers and DT Demonte Bolden. Each is physically gifted, but neither has reached the lofty expectations set for them.

TOP PROSPECTS: 1) SS Eric Berry (SO), 2) LB Rico McCoy (JR)

THE SCHEDULE

The Vols start the season on the left coast for a second straight year and expect better results at UCLA than they had in Berkeley last season (a 45-31 loss). The schedule does not get any easier when they return to the southeast, as Tennessee takes on two top ten teams (Florida, Auburn) in September and a third (Georgia) by midseason. They make trips to Auburn and Georgia, and while they play host to the Gators, Tennessee has struggled against their rival—Florida has won three in-a-row overall and three of four in Neyland Stadium. A 4-2 start would be impressive. In the second half of the season they must take on the Tide, as well as visit the ‘Cocks, but could end the year with six straight wins.

PIVOTAL POINT

D-Fense: Last season, Tennessee finished tenth in the SEC in scoring defense with the second worst pass defense in the conference. Opponents completed nearly 60 percent of their passes for an average of 6.8 yards per attempt—the second highest in the SEC. Their run defense wasn’t that much better, allowing 165 yards per game (they averaged 139 yards) and 4.2 yards per carry. Overall, they finished in the bottom half of the conference in turnovers forced, total defense, pass efficiency, first downs allowed, Red Zone defense and third down defense. That’s not vintage Tennessee football. Regardless of how well Crompton performs, if the defense does not step up, Tennessee will not challenge Georgia or Florida for the SEC East.

CFI FINAL ANALYSIS

If the Vols were in any other conference in America they would have an excellent chance to be considered a top ten team and would surely be among the favorites in the Big East and ACC, and prime challengers in the Big Ten and Pac-10. Alas, they are in the SEC and have to deal with life in the toughest, deepest, most talent rich conference in all the land. They are not a national title contender, but if they can win one of their early season division battles against Florida or Georgia (whom they defeated 35-14 last season), Tennessee could surprise. At the very least, the folks with the checkered end zone who sing “Rocky Top” should not be counted out…that’s when they are at their most dangerous.

Photo Credit: SEC Sports Media