Piecing collectively a listing of the perfect gamers in faculty soccer earlier than the season begins isn’t any simple job. It requires a mixture of data, reporting and assumptions.
Whereas some selections are simple (Jeremiah Smith is nice, you heard it right here first) and a few projections are almost universally agreed upon (hey, Arch Manning), there are sufficient wild playing cards to make sure that, by season’s finish, this checklist will in all probability have a look at least a little bit foolish.
Georgia, Ohio State, Ole Miss, Notre Dame and Alabama all begin new QBs with little expertise, so rating these gamers close to the highest appears presumptuous. Odds are, although, no less than just a few will probably be Heisman Trophy contenders by season’s finish.
Smith, Leonard Moore and Ryan Williams rapidly established themselves as stars throughout elite freshman campaigns in 2024, however it’s a virtually not possible job to foretell which first-year gamers will escape in 2025.
This time a yr in the past, few individuals had pegged Sam Leavitt, LaNorris Sellers or Blake Horvath as family names, however every proved to be among the many greatest within the nation by the conclusion of the marketing campaign. Who will probably be this season’s surprises? If we knew, it would not be a shock.
Our high 100 gamers characterize one thing of a compromise. 5 of ESPN’s faculty soccer specialists (David Hale, Adam Rittenberg, Chris Low, Paolo Uggetti and Invoice Connelly) weighed in, every utilizing some variation of onerous knowledge and educated guesswork to compile a listing. They then debated, refined and adjusted till coming to an settlement — or, maybe, simply giving up — on an official rating.
It may not be good, however that is the fantastic thing about a brand new faculty soccer season: It doesn’t matter what we anticipate in August, we’ll look again later to seek out we hardly knew something in any respect. — David Hale
Soar to a bit: 100-76 | 75-51 | 50-26 | 25-1
WR, Auburn, sophomore
2024 stats: 56 rec, 754 yards, 3 TD
2024 postseason rating: NR
There is a motive new Auburn quarterback Jackson Arnold stated throwing the ball to Singleton was “like throwing routes on air.” Singleton was one of the crucial coveted wideouts within the switch portal after hauling in 104 passes for 1,468 yards with 9 touchdowns in two seasons at Georgia Tech. The Atlanta native can flat-out fly. If Arnold adjusts to Hugh Freeze’s offense successfully, the Tigers might need one of many high receiver trios within the SEC in Singleton, Wake Forest switch Horatio Fields and sophomore Cam Coleman. — Mark Schlabach
WR, Clemson, sophomore
2024 stats: 708 receiving yards, 5 TD, 41 catches
2024 postseason rating: NR
Wesco earned raves as a real freshman throughout camp final season, however he did not get an actual shot at severe taking part in time till Week 5 towards Stanford, when he racked up 104 receiving yards and a landing. From there, he blossomed into one in every of Clemson’s largest threats on offense, racking up 36 catches for 574 yards from Week 5 on. — Hale
C, Iowa, senior
2024 stat: 1 sack allowed
2024 postseason rating: NR
The 6-foot-3, 302-pound Jones is the linchpin of the Hawkeyes’ line who helped operating again Kaleb Johnson have a breakout season in 2024. A transformed defensive lineman, Jones has settled in properly to the function and turned himself into one of the crucial constant facilities within the nation. — Paolo Uggetti
QB, Vanderbilt, senior
2024 stats: 2,293 yards, 20 TD, 74.6 QBR
2024 postseason rating: 69
In his first yr within the SEC, Pavia led Vandy to its first bowl win in 11 years, its first win over Alabama in 40 years and its first win ever over a No. 1 workforce. He completed 2024 with 2,293 passing yards, 927 non-sack dashing yards and 28 mixed touchdowns, and he loved himself sufficient within the course of that he sued for an extra year of eligibility — and received. So, he is again! — Invoice Connelly
OT, Clemson, senior
2024 stat: 2.9% allowed stress share
2024 postseason rating: NR
Some of the constant blockers within the nation, Miller has been a fixture on Clemson’s offensive line since he was a freshman, racking up 41 profession begins. He allowed 4 sacks all season, by no means a couple of in the identical recreation. — Hale
RB, Texas A&M, senior
2024 stats: 121 carries, 765 yards, 10 TD
2024 postseason rating: NR
Moss says he’s one hundred pc recovered from a knee damage that sidelined him for the ultimate 4 video games of the 2024 season, and that is excellent news for the Aggies. Earlier than taking place, Moss ran for 765 yards with 10 touchdowns in 9 video games. He ranked second within the SEC with 6.3 yards per carry. With Rueben Owens II coming back from a foot damage that sidelined him for many of 2024, the Aggies ought to have one of many higher one-two punches within the FBS. — Schlabach
DB, SMU, senior
2024 stats: 100 tackles, 3 INT, 3 PD
2024 postseason rating: NR
The guts and soul of SMU’s protection, Nwokobia allowed simply 75 yards, picked off three passes on 19 targets all season, whereas serving as a stalwart in run protection, racking up 100 tackles. Extra than simply an on-field star, Nwokobia wears No. 23 for the Mustangs, an honor that goes to the participant who greatest represents the management and fearlessness of SMU nice Jerry Lavias, the primary Black participant within the outdated Southwest Convention. — Hale
WR, LSU, junior
2024 stats: 61 receptions, 884 yards, 5 TD
2024 postseason rating: NR
The previous Alabama switch emerged as a star receiver for LSU final season, main the workforce with 61 catches for 884 yards with 5 touchdowns. His largest second got here late within the fourth quarter within the Tigers’ 29-26 victory towards Ole Miss on Oct. 12. He caught a 23-yard landing move on fourth-and-5 with 27 seconds remaining to power additional time. Anderson additionally had eight catches for 100 yards in a 44-31 win towards Baylor within the Kinder’s Texas Bowl. — Schlabach
LB, Texas Tech, senior
2024 stats: 127 tackles, 10.5 TFL, 5 sacks
2024 postseason rating: NR
A lot is manufactured from Tech’s transfers this offseason, however the return of Rodriguez for his senior yr is perhaps the Crimson Raiders’ most essential defensive participant. At 6-1, 235 kilos, Rodriguez is a formidable presence who was a first-team All-Large 12 honoree and was named preseason Large 12 Defensive Participant of the 12 months this yr. — Dave Wilson
RB, Missouri, sophomore
2024 stats: 237 carries, 1,351 yards, 13 TD
2024 postseason rating: NR
This is a listing of closely used operating backs (175 carries or extra) who pressured extra missed tackles per contact than Hardy in 2024: [null]. As a freshman on the UL Monroe, Hardy bulled his option to 1,351 dashing yards and 13 touchdowns, dodging tacklers properly and operating via them when essential. Now the Oma, Mississippi, native strikes to the SEC, the place he’ll instantly turn out to be a function again for a Mizzou workforce coming off of back-to-back 10-win seasons. — Connelly
LB, Buffalo, senior
2024 stats: 156 tackles, 2 sacks, 7 FF
2024 postseason rating: NR
The varsity that produced Khalil Mack, and most lately Shaun Dolac, has one other defender firmly on the nationwide radar. Murdock had one of many extra statistically dominant seasons within the nation final fall, main the FBS with seven pressured fumbles, ending second in tackles with 156 and twelfth in tackles for loss with 16.5. After serving to Buffalo to 9 wins in coach Pete Lembo’s first season, he is again to problem for nationwide honors. — Adam Rittenberg
QB, Iowa State, junior
2024 stats: 3,505 yards, 25 TD, 69.4 QBR
2024 postseason rating: NR
Becht guided the Cyclones to a school-record 11 wins in 2024 and capped the season with an MVP efficiency in a 42-41 win towards Miami within the Pop-Tarts Bowl. This season will probably be his third as Iowa State’s starter, and he’ll enter the yr with 6,690 profession passing yards and 48 landing passes. He’ll have a revamped receiving corps to work with, however his expertise ought to preserve the Cyclones among the many favorites within the Large 12. — Kyle Bonagura
OL, Georgia Tech, senior
2024 stats: 1 sack allowed, 77.8 pass-blocking grade
2024 postseason rating: NR
The day he dedicated to Georgia Tech after transferring from Middle Tennessee, Rutledge wrecked his truck and suffered a extreme foot damage that almost resulted in an amputation. As an alternative, he began each recreation for the Yellow Jackets, earned first-team All-ACC honors and proved to be one of the crucial formidable inside linemen within the nation. — Hale
C, Alabama, junior
2024 stats: 63 knockdown blocks, 80.7 run-blocking grade
2024 postseason rating: NR
Brailsford is the anchor of what could possibly be an excellent Alabama offensive line. After transferring from Washington, Brailsford had an 80.7 run-blocking grade, which ranked second amongst Energy 4 facilities, in line with Professional Soccer Focus (PFF). He had 63 knockdown blocks and allowed solely a half-sack. — Schlabach
DB, Arizona State, senior
2024 stats: 40 solo tackles, 2 INT, 5 PD
2024 postseason rating: NR
After stints at Texas and USC, Alford had a breakout season with the Solar Devils in 2024, taking part in an enormous function within the upstart program’s run to the School Soccer Playoff. In accordance with ASU, he allowed simply 9 receptions in protection whereas taking part in 522 snaps — an unbelievable ratio that ranked among the many best defensive backs within the nation. — Bonagura
S, Penn State, senior
2024 stats: 95 tackles, 50 solo, 1 FF
2024 postseason rating: NR
Anybody who tracked Penn State’s postseason run seen Wheatley, who performed his greatest throughout a few of the workforce’s largest moments final season. He earned VRBO Fiesta Bowl Defensive Participant of the Sport honors towards Boise State within the CFP quarterfinal after recording an interception and a fumble restoration. Wheatley then had an interception, a sack and 16 tackles towards Notre Dame in Penn State’s slender loss within the CFP semifinal on the Capital One Orange Bowl. He earned honorable point out All-Large Ten honors. — Rittenberg
DE, Rutgers, senior
2024 stats: 52 solo, 13 sacks, 3 PD
2024 postseason rating: NR
One in all Rutgers’ largest additions within the offseason, O’Neill comes from James Madison after a standout marketing campaign with the Dukes. The 6-3, 255-pound finish was a power to be reckoned with and set the tempo for a stingy JMU protection that led the nation in turnover margins final yr. — Uggetti
RB, Washington, senior
2024 stats: 193 carries, 1,053 yards, 10 TD
2024 postseason rating: NR
Lots of the core gamers from Jedd Fisch’s 10-win Arizona workforce in 2023 remained in Tucson, however Coleman adopted his coach to Washington and maintained his success with a brand new workforce and in a brand new league. An honorable point out All-Pac-12 choice in 2023, he earned third-team All-Large Ten honors final season at Washington, the place he rushed for 1,053 yards and 10 touchdowns, regardless of logging greater than 19 carries solely twice. — Rittenberg
CB, Indiana, junior
2024 stats: 35 solo tackles, 3 INT, 9 PD
2024 postseason rating: 51
After a formidable true freshman season at James Madison, Ponds joined coach Curt Cignetti at Indiana and earned first-team All-Large Ten honors in addition to All-America recognition. He had two interceptions, together with a 67-yard pick-six, towards Washington and blocked a punt for a security towards Michigan State. His best video games got here towards high competitors, as he had three passes defended towards Ohio State and an interception towards Notre Dame. — Rittenberg
DE, Michigan, senior
2024 stats: 23 tackles, 4 sacks, 1 FF
2024 postseason rating: NR
After two straight seasons of constant manufacturing for the Wolverines’ protection, Moore heads into his senior season able to as soon as once more be one of many key cogs in Wink Martindale’s unit. At Large Ten media days, Moore made information by joking that Ohio State’s title was not a “actual win” as a result of the Buckeyes did not beat Michigan. — Uggetti
S, Georgia, sophomore
2024 stats: 59 tackles, 1 INT, 1 FF
2024 postseason rating: NR
After taking part in in 14 video games and beginning two as a freshman, Bolden is being counted on to turn out to be a frontrunner in Georgia’s secondary. With safeties Malaki Starks and Dan Jackson departing for the NFL, the sophomore is now the Bulldogs’ final line of protection. He was named to the SEC All-Freshman workforce after ending fifth on the workforce with 59 tackles in 2024. — Schlabach
QB, Kansas State, junior
2024 stats: 2,712 yards, 605 yards rushed, 25 TD
2024 postseason rating: NR
In his first season as a full-time starter at Ok-State, Johnson flashed glimpses of his dual-threat stardom, most notably towards Oklahoma State, when he threw for 3 touchdowns and ran for 2 extra, passing for 259 yards and operating for 60 yards. A former nationwide top-100 recruit and a Kansas native, he’s pushed to return the Wildcats to the highest of the Large 12 and past. — Wilson
WR, Indiana, senior
2024 stats: 53 receptions, 957 yards, 8 TD
2024 postseason rating: NR
Sarratt has produced in all places he has been, from FCS Saint Francis to James Madison to Indiana, and performed an enormous function in serving to coach Cignetti flip the Hoosiers into an immediate CFP contender in 2024. He completed sixth within the Large Ten in receiving yards in his debut season and third in yards per catch (18.1) however nonetheless selected to run it again for another season with Cignetti quite than go professional. — Max Olson
LB, Indiana, senior
2024 stats: 118 tackles, 1.5 sacks, 4 PD
2024 postseason rating: 73
Heading into his senior season, Fisher has been a deal with machine for the Hoosiers and is ready to be a vital a part of their protection but once more. The 6-1, 231-pound linebacker was a first-team All-American final yr. — Uggetti
OL, Notre Dame, sophomore
2024 stats: 15 begins, 818 snaps, 3 sacks allowed
2024 postseason rating: NR
After anticipated starter Charles Jagusah went down earlier than the 2024 season, Notre Dame turned to Knapp, a real freshman, to anchor the road. All he did was assist pave the best way for a Notre Dame offense that ranked seventh nationally in dashing common, shield QB Riley Leonard’s blind aspect whereas surrendering simply three sacks, and assist the Combating Irish march to a nationwide championship recreation look. — Hale
TE, Ohio State, junior
2024 stats: 1 reception, 685 yards, 4 TD
2024 postseason rating: NR
At 6-4 and 236 kilos, you will not miss Klare on the sphere, and for whoever does line up underneath middle for the Buckeyes, Klare will rapidly turn out to be a favourite goal. The junior had a breakout season final yr, and there is a sense that this season could possibly be even greater for the Purdue product. — Uggetti
OL, Penn State, junior
2024 stats: 0 sacks allowed in 900+ snaps
2024 postseason rating: NR
Ioane proved he was able to play as a redshirt freshman with 5 begins at left guard in 2023, then took his recreation to a different stage final season as a 16-game starter who earned second-team All-Large Ten honors. He surrendered zero sacks over the course of the Nittany Lions’ run to the CFP semifinals, in line with ESPN Analysis, and completed with simply eight pressures allowed and three penalties on the yr whereas taking part in essentially the most snaps (957) of any participant within the Large Ten. — Olson
S, Illinois, senior
2024 stats: 49 tackles, 6 PD, 4 INT
2024 postseason rating: NR
Scott was focused greater than another defensive again within the Large Ten in his second yr as a starter, in line with TruMedia, and he fared properly in permitting simply 28 catches on 63 targets (44%) and 4.9 yards per goal with the second-most interceptions within the convention. The primary-team All-Large Ten performer will assist lead an Illini squad with big-time expectations for 2025. — Olson
DT, Penn State, senior
2024 stats: 42 tackles, 11 TFL, 3 sacks
2024 postseason rating: NR
Durant is not simply going to be an area eater in new defensive coordinator Jim Knowles’ scheme this fall. The 2-year starter is a disruptor up entrance who has generated 26 pressures at defensive deal with over the previous two seasons, most amongst all returning Large Ten linemen, in line with ESPN Analysis. — Olson
OG, Missouri, junior
2024 stats: 776 snaps performed, 3 allowed pressures
2024 postseason rating: NR
A former top-60 recruit and Beneath Armour All-American from Lee’s Summit, Missouri, Inexperienced began as a real freshman at Oklahoma, then transferred to his home-state faculty in 2024. He was a right away hit in Columbia, permitting simply three pressures with 5 blown run blocks in 13 begins and 776 snaps. With a brand new quarterback and fairly new talent corps, Mizzou will probably be leaning on Inexperienced and the inside line to determine effectivity in 2025. — Connelly
QB, SMU, junior
2024 stats: 28 TD, 3,245 passing yards, 354 dashing yards
2024 postseason rating: NR
After taking on as SMU’s starter in Week 4, Jennings ignited the Mustangs’ offense, main them to a playoff berth. From Nov. 1 via the ACC championship recreation, Jennings proved to be one of the crucial explosive QBs within the nation, accounting for greater than 1,500 yards with 14 touchdowns and three interceptions, alongside an 81.4 Whole QBR. — Hale
RB, Texas, junior
2024 stats: 226 carries, 1,064 yards, 44 receptions
2024 postseason rating: NR
As the one returning 1,000-yard rusher within the SEC this season, Wisner is sacrificing his favourite meal — a 10-count McNuggets and McDouble from McDonald’s — to get in higher form. He is a double risk for defenses after operating for 1,064 yards with 5 touchdowns and catching 44 passes for 311 yards with one rating in 2024. He had a career-high 186 yards within the Longhorns’ 17-7 victory towards rival Texas A&M. — Schlabach
QB, Georgia Tech, senior
2024 stats: 25 TD, 2 INT, 2,701 yards
2024 postseason rating: NR
Is there a more durable QB within the nation than King? Georgia Tech followers actually do not assume so. King performed via a painful shoulder damage final season that stored him from throwing quite a lot of yards downfield at occasions, and but he nonetheless led the Yellow Jackets to their second straight profitable season. He is the sixth Energy QB within the playoff period to account for no less than 25 touchdowns, fewer than 5 picks and full no less than 70% of his passes. The opposite 5 had been all later chosen within the first spherical of the NFL draft. — Hale
WR, Ohio State, senior
2024 stats: 733 yards, 4 TD, 52 receptions
2024 postseason rating: NR
Though Jeremiah Smith will understandably take up a lot consideration this season, do not sleep on Tate. The 6-3, 191-pound wideout from Chicago had a robust season within Ohio State’s title-winning offense final yr, and regardless that Will Howard is gone, Tate ought to be capable of construct on his 2024 marketing campaign. — Uggetti
OG, Texas A&M, senior
2024 stat: 1 sack allowed
2024 postseason rating: NR
After taking part in 4 seasons at Kansas, Reed-Adams did not miss a beat after stepping right into a beginning function in Texas A&M’s offensive line. Professional Soccer Focus stated Reed-Adams led all Energy 4 guards in gap-blocking proficiency and was fourth in zone blocking. In 361 snaps in 2024, Reed-Adams surrendered just one sack and eight pressures, whereas serving to the Aggies run for 195.5 yards per recreation, which was second greatest within the SEC. — Schlabach
TE, Vanderbilt, senior
2024 stats: 49 receptions, 638 yards, 5 TD
2024 postseason rating: NR
A former four-star quarterback, Stowers signed with Texas A&M in 2021 however discovered himself as a good finish and utility man at New Mexico State in 2023, gaining 366 yards receiving, 108 dashing and 99 passing. He adopted former head coach Jerry Kill to Vanderbilt in 2024 and have become one of many SEC’s greatest tight ends, and with quarterback Pavia, he returns for one final dance in Nashville in 2025. — Connelly
S, Texas, senior
2024 stats: 40 solo tackles, 1 FF, 2 INT
2024 postseason rating: NR
A former walk-on and a reigning second-team All-American, Taaffe has been a central determine within the Longhorns’ secondary over the previous two seasons and returns in 2025 as one in every of most skilled defenders anyplace within the nation. Taaffe completed second amongst Texas defenders with 78 whole tackles a yr in the past, anchoring a dominant defensive again unit alongside NFL draft alternatives Jahdae Barron and Andrew Mukuba. With each gone this fall, Taaffe is ready to steer a new-look secondary unit at Texas this fall. — Eli Lederman
OT, Boise State, junior
2024 stat: 2 sacks allowed
2024 postseason rating: NR
The Broncos have a historical past of manufacturing elite offensive linemen, and Casey must be the subsequent in line after incomes All-Mountain West honors in consecutive seasons. A gifted run blocker and move protector, he led an offensive line that helped Ashton Jeanty rise to nationwide prominence and guarded quarterback Maddux Madsen. Boise State completed twelfth nationally in fewest sacks allowed. — Rittenberg
LB, Ohio State, senior
2024 stats: 100 tackles, 10.5 TFL, 6 sacks
2024 postseason rating: NR
The 6-4, 235-pound transformed security proved he is one of many Large Ten’s greatest defensive playmakers in 2024, incomes second-team all-conference honors because the main tackler for the nationwide champs, with large performances in a few of the Buckeyes’ largest video games, together with a career-high 9 stops towards Oregon, Penn State and Texas. He is a 28-game starter and a useful chief with spectacular traits and first-round decide potential. — Olson
CB, Texas, junior
2024 stats: 36 tackles, 1 TFL, 8 PD
2024 postseason rating: NR
Muhammad has performed in all 30 video games since arriving at Texas as a heralded recruit in 2023. In 12 months 3, he is working onerous to supply extra turnovers within the secondary. Texas and BYU led the FBS with 22 interceptions final season, however Muhammad did not have one (and has only one in two seasons mixed). He helped the Longhorns restrict Ohio State star Jeremiah Smith to just one catch in Texas’ 28-14 loss in a CFP semifinal on the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Traditional. Muhammad will not have to attend lengthy for an additional shot on the star receiver; the groups open the season towards one another on the Horseshoe on Aug. 30. — Schlabach
LB, Old Dominion, senior
2024 stats: 2 solo tackles, 3 whole tackles
2024 postseason rating: NR
School soccer’s final tackling machine, Henderson recorded a mixed 324 tackles in 24 video games in 2022-23. That is a mean of 162 tackles — just one different defender had even 160 in both season. After taking a medical redshirt final fall, the senior from Dingmans Ferry, Pennsylvania, returns to presumably load up on the hits once more in 2025. — Connelly
LB, LSU, junior
2024 stats: 61 solo tackles, 3.5 sacks, 2 FF
2024 postseason rating: NR
LSU is bringing Weeks again cautiously throughout preseason camp after he had surgical procedure to restore a dislocated ankle he suffered towards Baylor within the Kinder’s Texas Bowl. Weeks was second within the SEC with 125 tackles to go along with 10 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks and a couple of pressured fumbles in 2024. He’ll get to play along with his older brother, West, and youthful brother, Zach, who’re additionally linebackers at LSU this season. The final time the Tigers had three brothers on a workforce was in 2008 with the Taylors (Curtis, Brandon, Jhyryn). — Schlabach
LB, Texas A&M, junior
2024 stats: 35 solo tackles, 2.5 sacks, 1 INT
2024 postseason rating: NR
A former three-star recruit who was ranked the 183rd-best prospect in Texas within the class of 2023 by ESPN Recruiting, York has proved to be significantly better than marketed in two seasons with the Aggies. Final season, he led the workforce with 82 tackles to go along with 9.5 tackles for loss. In accordance with Professional Soccer Focus, he leads Energy 4 linebackers with 59 run-defense stops since 2023. — Schlabach
DL, Texas Tech, senior
2024 stats: 22 solo tackles, 7 sacks, 5 FF
2024 postseason rating: NR
The 6-3, 250-pound outdoors linebacker was a late addition to Texas Tech’s portal class after Stanford fired coach Troy Taylor. The California native brings a presence off the sting for the Crimson Raiders’ protection and expertise with 16 begins in 33 profession video games. He will probably be an NFL draft prospect as a move rusher. — Wilson
DL, Georgia, junior
2024 stats: 27 tackles, 3.5 TFL, 1.5 sacks
2024 postseason rating: NR
After a few injury-plagued seasons, Miller lastly confirmed flashes of the participant he could possibly be in 2024. He had 5 tackles, one move breakup and one quarterback stress in Georgia’s 23-10 loss to Notre Dame in a CFP quarterfinal on the Allstate Sugar Bowl. At 6-3, 310 kilos, the junior must be a difference-maker in the course of the defensive entrance. — Schlabach
RB, Pittsburgh, senior
2024 stats: 966 dashing yards, 1,704 all-purpose yards, 10 TD
2024 postseason rating: 94
One of many nation’s most versatile gamers, Reid dominated in his first season after transferring from FCS Western Carolina, igniting Pitt’s offense as a runner and move catcher whereas including a landing within the return recreation. He was one in every of solely two Energy 4 gamers final season to rack up 10 or extra whole touchdowns whereas scoring as a runner, receiver and returner. — Hale
DL, Alabama, senior
2024 stats: 17 solo tackles, 2 sacks, 1 FF
2024 postseason rating: NR
It took Overton a short time to get began at Alabama after transferring from Texas A&M, and he is seeking to convert quarterback pressures into sacks in 2025. Final season, Overton had 39 quarterback pressures however solely two sacks in 13 video games. He additionally had 42 tackles, three tackles for loss and one pressured fumble. The Tide hope the previous five-star recruit was solely scratching the floor as a move rusher. — Schlabach
QB, TCU, junior
2024 stats: 3,949 yards, 27 TD, 73.9 QBR
2024 postseason rating: NR
The 6-2, 200-pound junior was calmly recruited out of highschool and finally dedicated to Indiana earlier than flipping to TCU, the place he set a college document for passing yards final season. His 3,949 yards in 2024 ranks second amongst returners behind LSU’s Garrett Nussmeier. He turned down large NIL affords from Tennessee, amongst others, to remain in Fort Value. — Wilson
QB, Baylor, senior
2024 stats: 3,071 yards, 28 TD, 82.9 QBR
2024 postseason rating: NR
Robertson grew to become the starter within the Bears’ third recreation final season and had a breakout yr, serving to Baylor save its season throughout a six-game win streak to complete the common season. The 6-4, 220-pound senior will enter the season for the primary time as a starter and is predicted to be among the finest QBs in a QB-heavy Large 12. — Wilson
LB, Ole Miss, junior
2024 stats: 32 solo tackles, 10.5 sacks, 1 INT
2024 postseason rating: NR
After a vivid freshman marketing campaign in 2023, Perkins exploded final fall when the previous five-star signee completed tied for the workforce lead in sacks (10.5) and tackles for loss (14.5) as a part of a record-setting Rebels line of defense. In 2025, Perkins is one in every of solely two returning starters inside a closely renovated Ole Miss protection. With out the likes of Walter Nolen III, JJ Pegues and Chris Paul Jr. alongside him, it is his flip to spearhead a promising unit of front-seven expertise this fall. — Lederman
QB, Navy, senior
2024 stats: 1,353 yards, 13 TD, 84.5 QBR
2024 postseason rating: 84
Who’s the highest returning faculty quarterback by way of Whole QBR? It isn’t Cade Klubnik, Drew Allar or Carson Beck. It is Blake Horvath, who completed sixth final season, piloting Navy’s evolving possibility offense to the tune of 1,353 passing yards, 1,298 non-sack dashing yards and 30 mixed touchdowns. With most of his talent corps returning and a fairly skilled line in entrance of him, he may produce comparable numbers and lead a problem within the American Convention in 2025. — Connelly
DL, Cincinnati, senior
2024 stats: 26 tackles, 5 TFL, and three.5 sacks
2024 postseason rating: NR
“The Godfather” is likely one of the greatest inside linemen within the nation, a 6-1, 330-pound three-time all-conference choice who has performed 34 video games for the Bearcats, all whereas battling medical points with blood clots that prevented him from working towards and did not enable him to play till Sept. 3 final yr, when he had six tackles and a sack towards Pitt. Now wholesome, he is primed for one remaining yr. — Wilson
Edge, Boise State, junior
2024 stats: 10 sacks, 15.5 TFL
2024 postseason rating: NR
Heisman Trophy runner-up Ashton Jeanty justifiably owned the highlight for Boise State, however the workforce’s line of defense additionally stood out. Virgin-Morgan performed reverse NFL sixth-round draft decide Ahmed Hassanein and led the workforce in each sacks (10) and quarterback hurries (7), whereas tying Hassanein for the highest spot in tackles for loss (15.5). The primary-team All-Mountain West choice enters his fourth season as one of many high Group of 5 gamers and among the many nation’s high move rushers. — Rittenberg
DL, Florida, senior
2024 stats: 10 solo tackles, 4.5 sacks, 1 FF
2024 postseason rating: NR
The towering, 6-6, 330-pound inside defensive lineman has been a continuing for the Gators since arriving from Louisville in 2023, tallying 21 begins at Florida over the previous two seasons. Banks set profession highs in tackles (21) and sacks (4.5) a yr in the past. In 2025, he returns to anchor a veteran line of defense inside a promising Gators protection, carrying legit first-round NFL draft dimension and potential. — Lederman
WR, Clemson, junior
2024 stats: 75 catches, 904 receiving yards, 11 TD
2024 postseason rating: NR
Coming off a sophomore season misplaced to damage, Williams reenergized the Clemson passing assault whereas turning into one of the crucial dependable receivers within the nation. His 75 catches ranked second within the ACC, and his 11 touchdowns tied for the convention lead. Within the course of, he grew to become the primary Clemson receiver with no less than 75 catches, 900 yards and 10 touchdowns since Mike Williams in 2016. — Hale
RB, Louisville, sophomore
2024 stats: 1,173 yards, 11 TD, 7.1 yards per carry
2024 postseason rating: NR
Brown emerged as among the finest backs within the nation final season as a real freshman, profitable ACC Rookie of the 12 months honors consequently. Not solely did he set the varsity true freshman dashing document, however he additionally grew to become the primary true freshman to hurry for over 1,000 yards in a season. Just one different operating again final season averaged extra yards per carry than Brown’s 7.1. — Andrea Adelson
S, Oregon, junior
2024 stats: 70 solo tackles, 6 PD
2024 postseason rating: NR
Purdue was a nasty workforce the previous two years however nonetheless produced a number of standout particular person gamers, together with Thieneman, who will go well with up for a distinct Energy 4 program this fall. He was named Large Ten Freshman of the 12 months and a third-team AP All-America choice in 2023, when he ranked third nationally with six interceptions and led the workforce with 106 tackles. Thieneman led Purdue and likewise all Large Ten defensive backs in tackles with 104 final season, to associate with 4 tackles for loss and 7 move breakups. — Rittenberg
LB, LSU, junior
2024 stats (4 video games performed): 15 tackles, 5 solo tackles
2024 postseason rating: NR
Perkins confirmed up as a freshman at LSU and blew everyone away with 13 tackles for loss, together with 7.5 sacks. He shuffled between totally different positions in 2023 after which tore his ACL in Week 4 final season. Coach Brian Kelly stated the Tigers plan to make use of the 6-1, 222-pound Perkins in additional of a hybrid linebacker/security function, releasing him as much as make performs and go get the quarterback. — Chris Low
DB, Minnesota, sophomore
2024 stats: 28 solo tackles, 1 FF, 5 INT
2024 postseason rating: NR
Perich is a bit underneath the radar at Minnesota however could possibly be one in every of faculty soccer’s most fun all-around gamers to look at, particularly within the post-Travis Hunter period. He earned first-team All-Large Ten honors at defensive again, recording 5 interceptions to associate with a pressured fumble and 46 tackles. Perich additionally was a second-team All-Large Ten return specialist with 314 kick return yards and 188 punt return yards. He could have an excellent greater function on offense this fall. — Rittenberg
DB, Notre Dame, junior
2024 stats: 15 begins, 3 INT, 9 PD
2024 postseason rating: NR
Grey had a breakout season in 2024 in his first full season as a starter, and expectations are excessive headed into 2025. His interception with 33 seconds left towards Penn State within the CFP semifinal arrange the game-winning area aim, permitting the Irish to advance to the nationwide title recreation. Maybe there’s a little bit of additional motivation going into the yr, after he was on the protection of the large passing play to Jeremiah Smith that allowed the Buckeyes to hoist the championship trophy. — Adelson
LB, Pitt, junior
2024 stats: 101 tackles, 4 INT, 15.5 TFL
2024 postseason rating: 86
As dynamic a linebacker as there was within the nation final season, Louis did a little bit of all the pieces in main the Pitt protection. Louis ranked fifth within the ACC in whole tackles (100), fourth in tackles for loss (15.5) and third in interceptions (4) — the one Energy 4 defender to hit every of these totals. To that, he added 7 sacks, 3 move breakups, 9 QB hurries and a pressured fumble. — Hale
CB, Clemson, junior
2024 stats: 45 solo tackles, 3 FF, 2 INT
2024 postseason rating: NR
The stat line for Terrell virtually feels as whether it is by no means ending. In 2024, Terrell grew to become the primary participant underneath Dabo Swinney to have no less than three pressured fumbles, a number of interceptions and a number of fumble recoveries in a single season. His 13 move breakups tied the Clemson sophomore document held by two others and had been essentially the most by any Clemson participant since 2014. He’s poised for extra this yr. — Adelson
LB, Georgia, junior
2024 stats: 76 tackles, 3 TFL, 1 INT
2024 postseason rating: NR
Overshadowed by inside linebackers Jalon Walker and Smael Mondon Jr. the previous two seasons, it is time for Allen to take cost of Georgia’s protection. In 12 begins in 2024, he was second on the workforce with 76 tackles. He confirmed up large within the Bulldogs’ most essential video games with eight tackles and one interception in a 34-20 victory towards Florida and 7 tackles and two interceptions in a 22-19 win towards Texas within the SEC championship recreation. — Schlabach
C, Florida, senior
2024 stats: 0 sacks allowed, 0.5% stress share
2024 postseason rating: 92
Some of the skilled members alongside a seasoned Florida offensive line (21 profession begins), Slaughter sits on the coronary heart of a pivotal unit for the Gators in 2025. The 6-5, 303-pound blocker earned first-team AP All-America honors a yr in the past in his first season as a full-time starter. In 2025, Slaughter is again as one in every of 4 returning starters on a Florida offensive line tasked with defending second-year quarterback DJ Lagway and paving the best way for reigning Freshman All-SEC operating again Jadan Baugh. — Lederman
Edge, San Diego State, sophomore
2024 stats: 21.5 TFL, 12.5 sacks, 9 run stops
2024 postseason rating: NR
White grew to become a hometown star in 2024. After turning into the primary underclassman in almost 20 years to be voted workforce captain, he erupted for 21.5 tackles for loss with 9 run stops and 12.5 sacks from 37 pressures. He did not have a number of assist round him, so opponents had been capable of run away from him late within the season. If a extra skilled set of defensive teammates might help him out extra, simply think about what he may produce. — Connelly
DE, Indiana, senior
2024 stats: 19 solo tackles, 10 sacks, 2 FF
2024 postseason rating: 55
Kamara was a part of the James Madison contingent that adopted coach Curt Cignetti to Indiana and made a right away influence through the workforce’s historic 2024 season. A second-team All-Solar Belt choice in 2023, he was a first-team All-Large Ten choice final fall and a third-team AP All-American after main the FBS in whole pressures (73) and ending with 10 sacks and 15 tackles for loss for the nation’s No. 2 protection. — Rittenberg
RB, Penn State, senior
2024 stats: 220 carries, 1,108 yards, 8 TD
2024 postseason rating: NR
Allen types half of arguably the perfect operating again tandem in Penn State historical past, as he and Nicholas Singleton each have eclipsed 2,800 profession yards. The 217-pound Allen had a career-high 1,108 dashing yards in 2024 to complete fifth within the Large Ten, logging 4 100-yard video games and remaining an element within the passing assault with 18 receptions. He repeatedly gashed Oregon within the Large Ten championship recreation and averaged 7.9 yards per carry towards Boise State in a CFP quarterfinal win on the Fiesta Bowl. — Rittenberg
DL, Miami, junior
2024 stats: 23 tackles, 5.5 TFL, 3.5 sacks
2024 postseason rating: NR
Bain was restricted final yr with a leg damage he sustained within the season opener, and he labored tirelessly within the offseason to get again to full power. Now, he is hoping that pays off with a dominant efficiency up entrance with new defensive coordinator Corey Hetherman main the best way. Bain has the potential to be one of the crucial dominant defensive ends within the nation this season. — Adelson
DB, Duke, senior
2024 stats: 54 tackles, 3 INT, 8 PD
2024 postseason rating: NR
Going into his third full season because the starter, Rivers is a preseason All-American after placing collectively an All-America season in 2024. Probably the greatest cowl cornerbacks within the nation, Rivers performs properly in protection and may create stress in numerous methods — compiling 7.5 tackles for loss, 3 pressures and a couple of pressured fumbles. In all, Rivers allowed 13 whole completions final yr — three that went for 20 yards or extra. — Adelson
DB, Tennessee, junior
2024 stats: 26 tackles, 4 INT, 7 PD
2024 postseason rating: 45
After transferring from Oregon State, McCoy established himself as one of many premier cornerbacks within the nation final season. He served because the eraser on the again finish of a Tennessee protection that held 10 of its 13 opponents underneath 20 factors. The Vols aren’t certain when they’ll get McCoy again this season after he tore his ACL in January whereas coaching. — Low
RB, Oregon, junior
2024 stats: 1,401 yards, 15 TD, 0 fumbles misplaced
2024 postseason rating: NR
Hughes takes over for Jordan James within the Oregon backfield after transferring from Tulane. Hughes rushed for two,779 yards mixed the previous two seasons, greater than another returning again in faculty soccer. Hughes ought to convey a stage of physicality to the Oregon offense; he broke 38 tackles final season, tied with North Carolina’s Omarion Hampton for fifth most within the nation. — Jake Trotter
QB, Miami, senior
2024 stats: 3,485 yards, 28 TD, 80.9 QBR
2024 postseason rating: NR
Beck was rated one of many high quarterbacks in faculty soccer headed into final season, however he opted to switch from Georgia to Miami for one remaining yr after some inconsistency on the sphere then a season-ending elbow damage. He says he’s one hundred pc following surgical procedure, however now it’s time to present he’s fully wholesome — and that the curler coaster that was 2024 is prior to now. — Adelson
WR, Arizona State, junior
2024 stats: 75 catches, 10 TD, 1,571 yards
2024 postseason rating: 89
Tyson’s 2024 breakout season cemented him as one of many nation’s premier receivers. He earned Large 12 Offensive Newcomer of the 12 months honors, hauled in 75 passes for 1,101 yards and 10 touchdowns, and posted 5 100-yard video games. All of that befell through the common season, as Tyson missed the Large 12 championship recreation and the CFP quarterfinal recreation due to damage. — Bonagura
LB, Alabama, senior
2024 stats: 36 solo tackles, 2 sacks, 1 FF
2024 postseason rating: NR
Had he not torn an ACL within the second to final recreation towards Oklahoma in 2024, Lawson doubtless would have turned professional. However after present process surgical procedure and rehab, Lawson is again for his redshirt senior season, and he offers the Crimson Tide the form of enforcer at center linebacker who may take them to a different stage defensively. Lawson is likely one of the surest tacklers in faculty soccer. — Low
DE, Penn State, senior
2024 stats: 24 solo tackles, 8.5 sacks, 2 FF
2024 postseason rating: NR
The upcoming departure of Abdul Carter to the NFL seemingly grew to become simpler for Penn State throughout its School Soccer Playoff run as Dennis-Sutton performed his greatest soccer underneath the largest highlight. Penn State’s different defensive finish had 4.5 sacks within the CFP and added an interception and a pressured fumble in a semifinal loss to Notre Dame on the Orange Bowl. Dennis-Sutton recorded 6.5 of his 8.5 sacks in Penn State’s remaining seven video games, and he ought to shine in new defensive coordinator Jim Knowles’ aggressive scheme. — Rittenberg
QB, Florida, sophomore
2024 stats: 1,915 yards, 12 TD, 57.9 QBR
2024 postseason rating: NR
The one query with Lagway is how wholesome he will probably be. He was restricted by an damage to his throwing shoulder within the spring then by a calf pressure this preseason. When he’s one hundred pc, Lagway’s ceiling is as excessive as any quarterback within the nation. He posted a 6-1 document in seven begins final season as a real freshman, and he has terrific consciousness as each a passer and a runner. — Low
OL, Miami, junior
2024 stats: 0.6% blown block share, 0 sacks allowed
2024 postseason rating: NR
Mauigoa has been a power on Miami’s offensive line for the reason that second he arrived as a real freshman, however this could possibly be his defining season. Miami is poised to have among the finest O-lines within the nation with Mauigoa on the forefront, because the Hurricanes hope their floor recreation might help prepared the ground for Beck and the offense. — Adelson
QB, Texas, sophomore
2024 stats: 939 yards, 9 TD, 87.5 QBR
2024 postseason rating: NR
The wait is over. In his third yr at Texas, Manning will get the keys to the Longhorns’ offense because the full-time starter. He performed situationally final season and crammed in when Quinn Ewers was injured. The Horns plan to make use of Manning’s power in each passing and operating. The 6-4, 219-pound Manning has thrown 95 passes throughout his first two seasons, with 90 of these coming in 2024. — Low
OLB, Illinois, senior
2024 stats: 74 tackles, 3 FF, 12.1% defensive stress fee
2024 postseason rating: NR
A 3rd-team All-Large Ten choice final season, Jacas is coming into his fourth marketing campaign as a starter for the Combating Illini. Jacas led Illinois in 2024 with 13 tackles for loss, 8 sacks and 10 quarterback hurries. He additionally pressured fumbles in wins over Michigan, Nebraska and Central Michigan, because the Illini received 10 video games for the primary time since 2001. — Trotter
QB, Arizona State, sophomore
2024 stats: 2,885 yards, 24 TD, 80.0 QBR
2024 postseason rating: 58
Throughout his first yr in Tempe, Leavitt had arguably the perfect freshman season in class historical past, setting the freshman document for whole offense (3,328) whereas guiding the Solar Devils to the School Soccer Playoff. He was efficient as a passer (2,885 yards). However his further skill to make performs on the run (443 yards) is what units him as much as be among the finest quarterbacks in faculty soccer in 2025. — Bonagura
DE, Oregon, junior
2024 stats: 38 tackles, 10.5 sacks, 2 FF
2024 postseason rating: 81
Uiagalelei was an All-Large Ten choice as a sophomore, his first season as a starter for the Geese, as he led the league through the common season with 10.5 sacks. The Geese misplaced a number of key gamers off final season’s protection, together with deal with Derrick Harmon, a first-round decide of the Pittsburgh Steelers. However Uiagalelei is an enormous motive the Geese could possibly be simply as disruptive up entrance after rating third within the Large Ten with 40 sacks in 2024. — Trotter
QB, South Carolina, sophomore
2024 stats: 2,534 yards, 18 TD, 69.8 QBR
2024 postseason rating: 65
Sellers was one of many breakout stars in faculty soccer in 2024 as a redshirt freshman, and his spectacular near the marketing campaign mirrored that of the Gamecocks, who received six in a row to conclude the common season. The 6-3, 240-pound Sellers is a Cam Newton clone and not possible to get on the bottom when he begins scrambling. Search for Sellers to be a extra polished passer in 2025. — Low
DE, Auburn, junior
2024 stats: 30 solo tackles, 7 sacks, 1 FF
2024 postseason rating: NR
As one of the crucial gifted defensive linemen within the SEC, the 6-6, 285-pound Faulk returns for his junior season after tying for the Tigers’ lead with seven sacks in 2024. Faulk is much more than a move rusher. His dimension, energy and explosiveness make him equally sturdy towards the run. — Low
QB, Penn State, senior
2024 stats: 3,327 yards, 24 TD, 77.5 QBR
2024 postseason rating: 63
Allar went 23-6 as a starter over the previous two seasons, together with two victories in final yr’s playoff. Penn State’s postseason run ended after he threw a late decide, permitting Notre Dame to kick a game-winning area aim and advance to the nationwide title recreation as a substitute. Regardless of that bitter end, Allar’s numbers improved throughout the board in 2024, and he enters this season with the fifth-shortest odds to win the Heisman Trophy, in line with ESPN BET. — Trotter
QB, Oklahoma, junior
2024 stats: 3,139 yards, 29 TD, 70.9 QBR
2024 postseason rating: 38
Mateer was one of many high quarterback targets within the switch portal this offseason after making a reputation for himself at Washington State, and Oklahoma was giddy to get him after rating 94th nationally in scoring offense final season at 24 factors per recreation. Mateer is a playmaker each as a passer and a runner, and his former offensive coordinator at WSU, Ben Arbuckle, made the transfer with him to OU. — Low
RB, Penn State, senior
2024 stats: 1,099 dashing yards, 6.4 yards per carry, 17 TD
2024 postseason rating: 80
Singleton groups up with Kaytron Allen to present Penn State maybe the perfect operating again duo within the nation. Final season, Singleton and Allen had been one in every of simply two Energy 4 tandems to every run for 1,000 yards, becoming a member of Ohio State’s Quinshon Judkins and TreVeyon Henderson. Singleton is also an efficient move catcher out of the backfield, snagging 41 passes final season for 375 yards and 5 touchdowns. — Trotter
OT, Alabama, junior
2024 stats: 639 snaps, 54 knockdown blocks
2024 postseason rating: NR
Alabama’s offensive line is poised to be one of many strengths of the workforce, and Proctor’s return at left deal with is an enormous motive. Talking of huge, Proctor is 6-7 and 366 kilos. He has steadily improved since his true freshman season in 2023 and enters his junior season as one of the crucial bodily imposing tackles in faculty soccer. — Low
CB, Notre Dame, sophomore
2024 stats: 34 solo tackles, 2 INT, 11 PD
2024 postseason rating: NR
As a real freshman in 2024, Moore opened the season as a query mark on the again finish of Notre Dame’s protection. He ended it as maybe essentially the most dominant nook within the nation. Moore allowed simply 39% completions on 51 targets, choosing off two balls and breaking apart 11 extra. Within the playoff alone, he allowed simply 58 whole yards whereas breaking apart 4 passes. — Hale
WR, Alabama, sophomore
2024 stats: 48 receptions, 865 yards, 8 TD
2024 postseason rating: 71
Williams cooled off a bit towards the tip of final season after a torrid begin to his true freshman yr at Alabama, however he nonetheless proved to be one of the crucial explosive gamers within the nation. He had 5 landing receptions within the first 4 video games, together with the sport winner towards Georgia. Williams is as harmful on deep passes as he’s in making issues occur after the catch. — Low
DE, Texas, sophomore
2024 stats: 31 solo tackles, 9 sacks, 3 FF
2024 postseason rating: NR
Simmons had a sensational true freshman marketing campaign and led the Longhorns with 9 sacks. A dynamic edge rusher, the 6-3, 240-pound Simmons has the pace and power to blow previous opposing offensive tackles. Texas coaches anticipate him to take an excellent greater leap throughout his sophomore yr after profitable the Shaun Alexander Freshman of the 12 months Award in his debut season on the Forty Acres. — Low
DE, South Carolina, sophomore
2024 stats: 17 solo tackles, 6.5 sacks, 3 FF
2024 postseason rating: NR
Stewart burst onto the scene final season as among the finest true freshmen in faculty soccer and instantly asserted himself as one of the crucial feared move rushers within the SEC. The 6-5, 245-pound Stewart earned Soccer Writers Affiliation of America (FWAA) Freshman All-America honors, and he has all the abilities to be a first-team All-American in 2025 as an much more full defender. — Low
DL, Clemson, junior
2024 stats: 32 tackles, 8.5 TFL, 3 sacks
2024 postseason rating: NR
Woods alternated between defensive deal with and defensive finish final season, and what’s so intriguing about his potential headed into his junior yr is what new coordinator Tom Allen will ask him to do. Clemson plans to be extra aggressive with its whole D-line, a prospect that Woods has embraced. — Adelson
QB, LSU, junior
2024 stats: 4,052 yards, 29 TD, 80.0 QBR
2024 postseason rating: NR
The SEC’s main returning passer after throwing for 4,052 yards, 29 touchdowns and 12 interceptions in 2024, Nussmeier enters his second season as LSU’s starter after ready his flip throughout his first three years on campus. Nussmeier could have a deep corps of receivers to throw to, together with newcomers Nic Anderson and Barion Brown, though the Tigers are changing each tackles. — Low
OL, Utah, junior
2024 stats: one sack allowed, 1.6% blown block share
2024 postseason rating: NR
Fano anchored Utah’s offensive line in 2024, beginning all 12 video games at proper deal with and incomes All-America honors from PFF (first workforce), AP (second workforce) and Walter Camp (second workforce). A finalist for the Polynesian School Soccer Participant of the 12 months Award, Fano combines elite move safety with bodily run blocking. — Bonagura
DL, Clemson, junior
2024 stats: 64 tackles, 19.5 TFL, 11 sacks, 6 FF
2024 postseason rating: 46
Parker confirmed his potential as a freshman All-American and adopted that up with a dominant sophomore season. His six pressured fumbles set a college document, and his 19.5 tackles for loss and 11 sacks had been essentially the most at Clemson since Clelin Ferrell had 19.5 and 11.5 in 2018. — Adelson
RB, Notre Dame, junior
2024 stats: 1,125 yards, 19 TD, 6.9 yards per carry
2024 postseason rating: 27
Love shouldered the dashing load final season, scoring a landing on the bottom in 13 straight video games and setting a CFP document with a 98-yard landing run in a first-round recreation towards Indiana. He performed via accidents for many of the playoff run, so a wholesome Love in 2025 may arrange the Irish for extra postseason success. — Adelson
QB, Clemson, senior
2024 stats: 3,639 yards, 36 TD, 78.7 QBR
2024 postseason rating: 53
Headed into his third yr as a starter, Klubnik is poised to have his greatest marketing campaign but after posting profession numbers in 2024. His return is likely one of the largest causes many consider the Tigers are poised to make a championship run. Klubnik additionally is aware of it’s now or by no means for him to cement his Clemson legacy — and add this offense to the document books. — Adelson
S, Ohio State, junior
2024 stats: 81 tackles, 2 INT, 6 PD
2024 postseason rating: 18
Downs was a serious motive the Buckeyes featured the highest protection within the nation in 2024. Enjoying shallow security, he locked up the center of the sphere for Ohio State, which did not enable greater than 23 factors the remainder of the best way after giving up 32 in an Oct. 12 loss at Oregon. Downs, additionally an electrical returner, took a punt 79 yards for a landing in a key late-season win over Indiana. There is not a extra completed defensive participant in faculty soccer coming into this marketing campaign. — Trotter
LB, Texas, junior
2024 stats: 59 solo tackles, 16.5 TFL, 8 sacks, 4 FF
2024 postseason rating: 30
The 6-3, 238-pound Hill has been a starter since his true freshman season. Now a junior, he has developed into one of the crucial well-rounded defenders in faculty soccer. He led the Longhorns final season with 113 whole tackles and was fourth amongst FBS linebackers with 16.5 tackles for loss. Hill was a first-team ESPN All-America choice final season, and he returns to spearhead Texas’ protection. — Low
WR, Ohio State, sophomore
2024 stats: 76 receptions, 1,315 yards, 16 TD
2024 postseason rating: 5
Arguably the perfect participant in faculty soccer, Smith broke the Large Ten freshman document with 1,315 receiving yards throughout Ohio State’s 2024 nationwide championship marketing campaign. He additionally totaled 5 touchdowns within the Buckeyes’ 4 playoff outings. With a season of expertise behind him, Smith stated he expects to play even sooner this yr. That is a scary proposition for the remainder of the Large Ten. — Trotter
