Big 12: Aldon Smith
Heading into the season, I see five teams in the Big 12 with a realistic chance to win the league. I'll be breaking them down in order (which won't be the same as my post-spring power rankings) of their chances to leave the season with the Big 12 title.
No. 1 on the list was the favorite: Oklahoma.
No. 2 was Texas A&M.
Oklahoma State came in at No. 3.
Why the Tigers will win the Big 12
1. Experience. Missouri returns 105 starts on the offensive line, losing only center Tim Barnes. That's the most in the Big 12 and 11th most in the nation on an offensive line that was fantastic in 2010. Just less than 80 percent of its total lettermen return, eighth-most in college football. That's a lot of guys who have been around, and the Tigers knocked over a big wall last year when they toppled the Sooners. Eliminate Mizzou's curious road hiccup at Texas Tech, and the Tigers would have been back in the Big 12 title game instead of sharing the Big 12 North with Nebraska after a third 10-win season in four years.
2. Dave Steckel. The Tigers' defense has steadily improved under Steckel, who previously coached linebackers under Matt Eberflus. Missouri had its best defense under Gary Pinkel last year, and that could continue this year with a great mix of experience and upside at linebacker, with Will Ebner and Zaviar Gooden set to knock around a few folks. Missouri's defense is noticeably tougher under Steckel, and though the Tigers must replace Aldon Smith and both starting corners, don't expect it to take a big jump back. Though Kip Edwards and E.J. Gaines lack the experience of Carl Gettis and Kevin Rutland, they may prove to be better corners very soon.
3. The defensive line. And what's the best way to negate inexperience at corner? How about the Big 12's best defensive line. Brad Madison is arguably the Big 12's best returning pass-rusher, and his counterpart at defensive end, Jacquies Smith, is one of the better ends in the Big 12, too. Missouri also has the best depth of any defensive line, with Michael Sam and Kony Ealy itching to spell Madison and Smith. At defensive tackle, Terrell Resonno could be poised for a breakout year, and blue-chip recruit Sheldon Richardson, if/when he actually makes it to campus, should join Dominique Hamilton at the opposite tackle spot, making sure Missouri's front four are not to be trifled.
Why the Tigers won't win the Big 12
1. The quarterback has never started a game. Sometimes, it's just this simple. James Franklin may blossom into a star at Missouri, but as a first-year starter, he's bound to have a few bad nights. Can Missouri survive them? Its Big 12 title hopes depend on it. If Blaine Gabbert had stayed, Missouri would likely be a top-15 or top-10 team and join Texas A&M and OSU as the chief contenders to knock off Oklahoma. Instead, the Tigers are relegated to a dark horse/wild-card role that depends heavily on how Franklin performs in his first year. The one advantage he has is after Tyler Gabbert's post-spring transfer, fall camp will be more about cementing his role as starter than winning it. Franklin walked in as a true freshman last spring and eventually won the No. 2 job behind Blaine Gabbert. That says a lot, and he earned some playing time last year, but his sophomore season won't be anything like 2010, when he threw all of 14 passes.
2. The passing game is limited. NFL teams knew Blaine Gabbert had a cannon, but he didn't get very many chances to showcase it to college fans last year, and Franklin may be forced to do the same. T.J. Moe and Michael Egnew are a great duo with some of the best hands in the league and a great sense of space, but without a deep threat to keep defenses honest, their production declined late in the season. Danario Alexander and Jeremy Maclin were able to stretch the field for guys like Chase Coffman and Martin Rucker in the past, but Moe and Egnew won't come close to 2010's production if the Tigers can't find someone to haul in a few passes over the top of the secondary.
3. Trips to Norman and College Station are on the schedule. I hear you, Missouri fans. I was there for the destruction of Texas A&M at Kyle Field last year. But that was a very different Texas A&M team than you'll be facing this time around. And the return trip may not be quite as enjoyable. Jerrod Johnson struggled against the Tigers, but the 30-9 loss was his penultimate start and Ryan Tannehill is driving the bus now. Also, don't count on this one being an 11 a.m. kickoff. I'd plan for prime time, and Kyle Field is a very different place at 8 p.m. than at lunch time. Ask Nebraska. Missouri knocked off Oklahoma last year, too, but don't think the Sooners have forgotten the fourth-quarter meltdown in Columbia. Oklahoma gets both of its losses in 2010 -- Missouri and Texas A&M -- in Norman this year, where it carries a 36-game home winning streak, the nation's longest, into 2011.
No. 1 on the list was the favorite: Oklahoma.
No. 2 was Texas A&M.
Oklahoma State came in at No. 3.
Why the Tigers will win the Big 12
1. Experience. Missouri returns 105 starts on the offensive line, losing only center Tim Barnes. That's the most in the Big 12 and 11th most in the nation on an offensive line that was fantastic in 2010. Just less than 80 percent of its total lettermen return, eighth-most in college football. That's a lot of guys who have been around, and the Tigers knocked over a big wall last year when they toppled the Sooners. Eliminate Mizzou's curious road hiccup at Texas Tech, and the Tigers would have been back in the Big 12 title game instead of sharing the Big 12 North with Nebraska after a third 10-win season in four years.
2. Dave Steckel. The Tigers' defense has steadily improved under Steckel, who previously coached linebackers under Matt Eberflus. Missouri had its best defense under Gary Pinkel last year, and that could continue this year with a great mix of experience and upside at linebacker, with Will Ebner and Zaviar Gooden set to knock around a few folks. Missouri's defense is noticeably tougher under Steckel, and though the Tigers must replace Aldon Smith and both starting corners, don't expect it to take a big jump back. Though Kip Edwards and E.J. Gaines lack the experience of Carl Gettis and Kevin Rutland, they may prove to be better corners very soon.
3. The defensive line. And what's the best way to negate inexperience at corner? How about the Big 12's best defensive line. Brad Madison is arguably the Big 12's best returning pass-rusher, and his counterpart at defensive end, Jacquies Smith, is one of the better ends in the Big 12, too. Missouri also has the best depth of any defensive line, with Michael Sam and Kony Ealy itching to spell Madison and Smith. At defensive tackle, Terrell Resonno could be poised for a breakout year, and blue-chip recruit Sheldon Richardson, if/when he actually makes it to campus, should join Dominique Hamilton at the opposite tackle spot, making sure Missouri's front four are not to be trifled.
Why the Tigers won't win the Big 12
1. The quarterback has never started a game. Sometimes, it's just this simple. James Franklin may blossom into a star at Missouri, but as a first-year starter, he's bound to have a few bad nights. Can Missouri survive them? Its Big 12 title hopes depend on it. If Blaine Gabbert had stayed, Missouri would likely be a top-15 or top-10 team and join Texas A&M and OSU as the chief contenders to knock off Oklahoma. Instead, the Tigers are relegated to a dark horse/wild-card role that depends heavily on how Franklin performs in his first year. The one advantage he has is after Tyler Gabbert's post-spring transfer, fall camp will be more about cementing his role as starter than winning it. Franklin walked in as a true freshman last spring and eventually won the No. 2 job behind Blaine Gabbert. That says a lot, and he earned some playing time last year, but his sophomore season won't be anything like 2010, when he threw all of 14 passes.
2. The passing game is limited. NFL teams knew Blaine Gabbert had a cannon, but he didn't get very many chances to showcase it to college fans last year, and Franklin may be forced to do the same. T.J. Moe and Michael Egnew are a great duo with some of the best hands in the league and a great sense of space, but without a deep threat to keep defenses honest, their production declined late in the season. Danario Alexander and Jeremy Maclin were able to stretch the field for guys like Chase Coffman and Martin Rucker in the past, but Moe and Egnew won't come close to 2010's production if the Tigers can't find someone to haul in a few passes over the top of the secondary.
3. Trips to Norman and College Station are on the schedule. I hear you, Missouri fans. I was there for the destruction of Texas A&M at Kyle Field last year. But that was a very different Texas A&M team than you'll be facing this time around. And the return trip may not be quite as enjoyable. Jerrod Johnson struggled against the Tigers, but the 30-9 loss was his penultimate start and Ryan Tannehill is driving the bus now. Also, don't count on this one being an 11 a.m. kickoff. I'd plan for prime time, and Kyle Field is a very different place at 8 p.m. than at lunch time. Ask Nebraska. Missouri knocked off Oklahoma last year, too, but don't think the Sooners have forgotten the fourth-quarter meltdown in Columbia. Oklahoma gets both of its losses in 2010 -- Missouri and Texas A&M -- in Norman this year, where it carries a 36-game home winning streak, the nation's longest, into 2011.
I've done it. You've done it.
"Hey, is that guy still around?"
Even with two fewer teams, it's hard to keep track. Our next series, which we did last year, too, takes a look at two key players for every team in the league that are taking their talents elsewhere, returning to campus, or arriving to try and write a legacy of their own.
So really, this series isn't so much for the fans of the teams in the posts, but more for everyone else. It wouldn't be a bad idea to bookmark this series.
Next up: Missouri
Going:
Blaine Gabbert, QB
Gabbert left Missouri after his junior season with two years of starting experience under his belt. The rocket-armed, 6-foot-5, 235-pounder did it as the 10th pick in the NFL draft, after throwing for more than 6,800 yards and 40 touchdowns with just 18 interceptions. The St. Louis native came to Missouri as one of the program's most touted recruits ever and made a whole lot of his potential. It was obvious during his freshman season that Gabbert was the heir to Chase Daniel, and he earned the right the following season. As a first-year starter, Gabbert earned loads of respect from his teammates for playing through a painful ankle injury courtesy of the House of Spears. In 2010 he helped Missouri win the biggest game of Gary Pinkel's career, knocking off No. 1 Oklahoma at home in front of a homecoming crowd with ESPN's College GameDay in town for the first time.
One final note: At this rate, Gabbert is on pace to have the NFL's most recognizeable 'do south of Troy Polamalu and Tom Brady. Gordon Gekko? Give me Gordon Bombay.
Aldon Smith, DE
Smith earned a reputation as one of the league's best pass rushers fast, sprinting to an 11-sack freshman season in 2009, a Missouri record. His production was limited in 2010 because of a broken bone in his leg, but NFL teams believed in his freakish athletic ability and upside, enough so that the San Francisco 49ers made him the seventh overall pick in last month's draft.
The 6-foot-5, 260-pound Raytown, Mo. native was one of the first surprises of the draft, but he'll get his chance to develop while collecting hefty paychecks in the NFL.
Staying:
T.J. Moe, WR and Michael Egnew, TE
Missouri's top receiving duo is back and should provide Gabbert's replacement, James Franklin, with a lot of help. Both are sure-handed and won't go down easily. They were the driving force behind Missouri's passing game in 2010, which lacked a home-run threat a la Jeremy Maclin or Danario Alexander. A year of experience as relied-upon threats should be valuable, too.
In 2009, they combined for five catches and 33 yards. Last season? Try 182 catches, 1,807 yards and 11 scores. Finding a deep threat that was absent in 2010 will make it a lot easier -- their production dipped in the heart of conference play -- but both should put up big numbers again in 2011.
Will Ebner, LB
Ebner seems to continually battle injuries, but the big-hearted senior is back for a fourth season. As a freshman, he earned a reputation as one of the team's hardest hitters very early in camp. In 2009, he returned in two weeks from arthroscopic knee surgery, and in 2010 he played through a broken foot. He had just 47 tackles last season, thanks in part to being slowed by the foot injury, but he's likely to slide into a spot on the All-Big 12 team if he can finally stay healthy.
Coming:
Sheldon Richardson, DT
I'd argue that no player in Missouri history has had more written about him before he stepped on campus as an official, enrolled member of the Tigers. Richardson's three-year (and perhaps longer) saga seemed to reach its natural end when he signed with Missouri as its top recruit in 2009, a member of the ESPNU150. But Richardson didn't qualify and headed to junior college in California. Then, as the nation's No. 3 juco recruit, he committed to USC but switched back to Missouri before signing with the Tigers. He's expected to be on campus in June. The athletic, 6-foot-4, 296-pounder looks like a game-changer on paper and on the limited game tape he produced during an injury-plagued juco career. Will he become one at the major college level?
Corbin Berkstresser, QB
After Tyler Gabbert's transfer, James Franklin looks like the likely successor to Tyler's older brother, Blaine. But could Berkstresser slide in front of Ashton Glaser to become Franklin's backup, or perhaps earn time if Franklin struggles? The 6-foot-3, 218-pounder from outside Kansas City will have to make up a big experience gap between himself and Glaser, a redshirt sophomore entering his third season in the program. Berkstresser didn't come to Missouri this spring like fellow 2011 signee Wesley Leftwich, whose speed wowed coaches in his first 15 practices as a Tiger.
Click here for more from The Revolving Door.
"Hey, is that guy still around?"
Even with two fewer teams, it's hard to keep track. Our next series, which we did last year, too, takes a look at two key players for every team in the league that are taking their talents elsewhere, returning to campus, or arriving to try and write a legacy of their own.
So really, this series isn't so much for the fans of the teams in the posts, but more for everyone else. It wouldn't be a bad idea to bookmark this series.
Next up: Missouri
Going:
Blaine Gabbert, QB
Gabbert left Missouri after his junior season with two years of starting experience under his belt. The rocket-armed, 6-foot-5, 235-pounder did it as the 10th pick in the NFL draft, after throwing for more than 6,800 yards and 40 touchdowns with just 18 interceptions. The St. Louis native came to Missouri as one of the program's most touted recruits ever and made a whole lot of his potential. It was obvious during his freshman season that Gabbert was the heir to Chase Daniel, and he earned the right the following season. As a first-year starter, Gabbert earned loads of respect from his teammates for playing through a painful ankle injury courtesy of the House of Spears. In 2010 he helped Missouri win the biggest game of Gary Pinkel's career, knocking off No. 1 Oklahoma at home in front of a homecoming crowd with ESPN's College GameDay in town for the first time.
One final note: At this rate, Gabbert is on pace to have the NFL's most recognizeable 'do south of Troy Polamalu and Tom Brady. Gordon Gekko? Give me Gordon Bombay.
Aldon Smith, DE
Smith earned a reputation as one of the league's best pass rushers fast, sprinting to an 11-sack freshman season in 2009, a Missouri record. His production was limited in 2010 because of a broken bone in his leg, but NFL teams believed in his freakish athletic ability and upside, enough so that the San Francisco 49ers made him the seventh overall pick in last month's draft.
The 6-foot-5, 260-pound Raytown, Mo. native was one of the first surprises of the draft, but he'll get his chance to develop while collecting hefty paychecks in the NFL.
Staying:
T.J. Moe, WR and Michael Egnew, TE
Missouri's top receiving duo is back and should provide Gabbert's replacement, James Franklin, with a lot of help. Both are sure-handed and won't go down easily. They were the driving force behind Missouri's passing game in 2010, which lacked a home-run threat a la Jeremy Maclin or Danario Alexander. A year of experience as relied-upon threats should be valuable, too.
In 2009, they combined for five catches and 33 yards. Last season? Try 182 catches, 1,807 yards and 11 scores. Finding a deep threat that was absent in 2010 will make it a lot easier -- their production dipped in the heart of conference play -- but both should put up big numbers again in 2011.
Will Ebner, LB
Ebner seems to continually battle injuries, but the big-hearted senior is back for a fourth season. As a freshman, he earned a reputation as one of the team's hardest hitters very early in camp. In 2009, he returned in two weeks from arthroscopic knee surgery, and in 2010 he played through a broken foot. He had just 47 tackles last season, thanks in part to being slowed by the foot injury, but he's likely to slide into a spot on the All-Big 12 team if he can finally stay healthy.
Coming:
Sheldon Richardson, DT
I'd argue that no player in Missouri history has had more written about him before he stepped on campus as an official, enrolled member of the Tigers. Richardson's three-year (and perhaps longer) saga seemed to reach its natural end when he signed with Missouri as its top recruit in 2009, a member of the ESPNU150. But Richardson didn't qualify and headed to junior college in California. Then, as the nation's No. 3 juco recruit, he committed to USC but switched back to Missouri before signing with the Tigers. He's expected to be on campus in June. The athletic, 6-foot-4, 296-pounder looks like a game-changer on paper and on the limited game tape he produced during an injury-plagued juco career. Will he become one at the major college level?
Corbin Berkstresser, QB
After Tyler Gabbert's transfer, James Franklin looks like the likely successor to Tyler's older brother, Blaine. But could Berkstresser slide in front of Ashton Glaser to become Franklin's backup, or perhaps earn time if Franklin struggles? The 6-foot-3, 218-pounder from outside Kansas City will have to make up a big experience gap between himself and Glaser, a redshirt sophomore entering his third season in the program. Berkstresser didn't come to Missouri this spring like fellow 2011 signee Wesley Leftwich, whose speed wowed coaches in his first 15 practices as a Tiger.
Click here for more from The Revolving Door.
Mailbag: Best WRs, new stats, paid players
May, 20, 2011
5/20/11
3:15
PM ET
By
David Ubben | ESPN.com
Thanks for all the questions. Didn't get yours answered? My mailbag is always open.
Paul in Austin wrote: Hey David. Question today about recievers. It seems to me that Ryan Broyles' stats were hyper-inflated due to the bubble screens that OU runs. I may be biased (well, I am) but if you take the stats away and base it on pure ability here's my recievers list: 1. Blackmon 2. Fuller 3. Broyles 4. Wright Thoughts?
David Ubben: Nope. You're off base, Paul. Yes, Broyles' reception totals are inflated to some degree, but I still think he's the best receiver in the Big 12 -- and probably the country -- in terms of his ability to get open, as well as his talent for eating up yardage after the catch.
Blackmon isn't far behind in the "get open" category, but his ability to go up and get jump balls, along with his consistency, give him the edge over Broyles.
Fuller is a good receiver, definitely the third best in the Big 12, but he's not nearly as good at getting open or making plays after the catch. He's better than both Broyles and Blackmon at getting jump balls, but the other two do just about everything better.
As well as Fuller did against LSU's Patrick Peterson in the Cotton Bowl, his production took a huge dip late last season, which we didn't see from Blackmon or Broyles.
I'll rank the Big 12's receivers before the season, but Baylor's Kendall Wright will be challenged pretty closely for that fourth spot by T.J. Moe and Kenny Stills.
CowboyKS in Kansas asked: DU, With arguably the 2 best pass rushers in the country NFL bound (Smith@Mizzu, Miller@A&M), do you predict the great passers of the Big 12 having even bigger years in conference play?
DU: No, I think it'll be a slightly above average year, and not because of pass-rushers. More than anything, it'll be secondaries. The Big 12 is pretty deep at receiver, but there are exactly zero elite corners in the league without Nebraska and Jamell Fleming.
This isn't like 2008 when the league had eight or nine crazy-good quarterbacks. Brandon Weeden, Landry Jones, Ryan Tannehill and Robert Griffin III are pretty clearly the elite class. James Franklin at Missouri should have a good year, but he's not going to get anywhere near 4,000 yards. I'd expect him to just barely clear 3,000. Seth Doege could cause problems for opposing defenses. Texas is a bit of a wild card.
It'll be a good year for offenses, but don't plan on seeing a ton of 51-48 games.
Jake in College Station, Texas, asked: Hey David,How do you feel about the Big 12 throwing around the idea of increasing player's stipends and other forms of payment? Is getting a free education not enough? None of the other students are getting that kind of assistance.
DU: I like the idea of giving players more money, but it's going to take some finagling to come up with the money. Do school's finance it? Do they use the new television money? Does the NCAA foot the bill? We're still a long way from this becoming a reality.
But as much as people like to play the "What, getting a free education isn't enough?" card, let me answer that for you: In a lot of cases, no. It's not. Players can get by. Athletic cafeterias usually have top-notch food, especially at major programs, and scholarships can cover housing, but the majority of these players are broke, just like the rest of their classmates.
You've heard it before, but revenue-producing sports do a lot of revenue producing. Not everybody taking money is Reggie Bush. In a lot of cases, it's for basic needs, like making a parent's house payment or some extra spending money. If everyone can get together and agree on a way to slide these guys a few thousand dollars more per semester without coming at a huge cost to other sports, the universities or the programs themselves (and that might be difficult), I don't see any problem with it.
Sam in Oklahoma City asked: In the upcoming season, my beloved Oklahoma State Cowboys have a lot of potential on offense. I realize that the defense is suspect, but a quick observation and question. Lou Holtz made an interesting observation last year. He stated that the defensive stats were skewed against the defence. His reasoning was that with the points OSU put up, offenses had to throw a lot more against them to keep up. Could I have your thoughts on the subject.
DU: Yeah, there's some truth to that. The raw numbers (yardage, points per game) don't really tell the whole story, especially with teams like Oklahoma and Oklahoma State who have a ton of possessions. Generally, the concept of math escapes me, so I'm not overtly attracted to sabermetrics for football, but most of the numbers make sense if you can wrap your head around them.
One pretty simple one is offensive and defensive efficiency, which I came across on Berry Tramel's blog for The Oklahoman this past season. I'm sure I'll get emails from statheads about how someone else came up with it first, but I don't have time for a history lesson on advanced statistics.
Anyway, he put together the numbers for every team in the Big 12 and a few others that's pretty simple: What percentage of your opponents' possessions end in points?
On those numbers, Oklahoma State actually looked pretty good.
Andrew Millar in Houston, Texas, asked: David,It nearly broke my heart to watch Jerrod Johnson throughout the first half of this season in comparison to last season. I'm also saddened he went undrafted, but I'm not really surprised. The UFL will be good for him, but do you ever see him getting out of the UFL and into the big leagues? And if so, in any sort of meaningful fashion?
DU: Yeah, that was tough to watch at times last year. He wasn't even close to the same player. I'm excited to see him if he finally returns to form from his junior year. If that happens, I definitely could see him in the NFL very soon. He's clearly got the size and the arm strength.
My guess is he'll have to shorten his release -- it's elongated because his arms are so long -- and he'll undergo some other tweaks to his mechanics, but if he can show some potential next year, he'll get a shot. Any coach would love to have him in the locker room. He'll learn fast and Mike Sherman can vouch for him.
Kareem in Los Angeles asked: Hey Dubs, you got a statue?
DU: Actually, at one time, I briefly did. He lived on my desk. My freshman year of college, a friend of mine went on vacation and came across a figurine a little bigger than a Coke can that looked exactly like me playing a guitar. Obviously, my friend had to bring him back. He was awesome, and his name was Little Davie Ubbs.
Unfortunately, when I was moving out of my college apartment, he fell off the top shelf of my desk and hit his head on my desk on the way down, shattering himself and his guitar.
Kevbot in Norman, Okla., asked: What are the chances there is a three-way tie between OU, OSU, and A&M with each team having a road loss? Who do you think would get the nod to the Fiesta Bowl or the National Championship (wishful thinking of course)?
DU: I asked a Big 12 official a couple weeks back about the tiebreaker rules, and though it's not official yet, the league sounds like it intends to keep the spirit of the previous tiebreaker rules. So, expect the BCS to come into play if the teams all split their head-to-head matchups.
In that case, No. 1 would go to the top bowl as the Big 12 champ, and the remaining bowls, be it BCS or otherwise, could pick between the other two.
Paul in Austin wrote: Hey David. Question today about recievers. It seems to me that Ryan Broyles' stats were hyper-inflated due to the bubble screens that OU runs. I may be biased (well, I am) but if you take the stats away and base it on pure ability here's my recievers list: 1. Blackmon 2. Fuller 3. Broyles 4. Wright Thoughts?
David Ubben: Nope. You're off base, Paul. Yes, Broyles' reception totals are inflated to some degree, but I still think he's the best receiver in the Big 12 -- and probably the country -- in terms of his ability to get open, as well as his talent for eating up yardage after the catch.
Blackmon isn't far behind in the "get open" category, but his ability to go up and get jump balls, along with his consistency, give him the edge over Broyles.
Fuller is a good receiver, definitely the third best in the Big 12, but he's not nearly as good at getting open or making plays after the catch. He's better than both Broyles and Blackmon at getting jump balls, but the other two do just about everything better.
As well as Fuller did against LSU's Patrick Peterson in the Cotton Bowl, his production took a huge dip late last season, which we didn't see from Blackmon or Broyles.
I'll rank the Big 12's receivers before the season, but Baylor's Kendall Wright will be challenged pretty closely for that fourth spot by T.J. Moe and Kenny Stills.
CowboyKS in Kansas asked: DU, With arguably the 2 best pass rushers in the country NFL bound (Smith@Mizzu, Miller@A&M), do you predict the great passers of the Big 12 having even bigger years in conference play?
DU: No, I think it'll be a slightly above average year, and not because of pass-rushers. More than anything, it'll be secondaries. The Big 12 is pretty deep at receiver, but there are exactly zero elite corners in the league without Nebraska and Jamell Fleming.
This isn't like 2008 when the league had eight or nine crazy-good quarterbacks. Brandon Weeden, Landry Jones, Ryan Tannehill and Robert Griffin III are pretty clearly the elite class. James Franklin at Missouri should have a good year, but he's not going to get anywhere near 4,000 yards. I'd expect him to just barely clear 3,000. Seth Doege could cause problems for opposing defenses. Texas is a bit of a wild card.
It'll be a good year for offenses, but don't plan on seeing a ton of 51-48 games.
Jake in College Station, Texas, asked: Hey David,How do you feel about the Big 12 throwing around the idea of increasing player's stipends and other forms of payment? Is getting a free education not enough? None of the other students are getting that kind of assistance.
DU: I like the idea of giving players more money, but it's going to take some finagling to come up with the money. Do school's finance it? Do they use the new television money? Does the NCAA foot the bill? We're still a long way from this becoming a reality.
But as much as people like to play the "What, getting a free education isn't enough?" card, let me answer that for you: In a lot of cases, no. It's not. Players can get by. Athletic cafeterias usually have top-notch food, especially at major programs, and scholarships can cover housing, but the majority of these players are broke, just like the rest of their classmates.
You've heard it before, but revenue-producing sports do a lot of revenue producing. Not everybody taking money is Reggie Bush. In a lot of cases, it's for basic needs, like making a parent's house payment or some extra spending money. If everyone can get together and agree on a way to slide these guys a few thousand dollars more per semester without coming at a huge cost to other sports, the universities or the programs themselves (and that might be difficult), I don't see any problem with it.
Sam in Oklahoma City asked: In the upcoming season, my beloved Oklahoma State Cowboys have a lot of potential on offense. I realize that the defense is suspect, but a quick observation and question. Lou Holtz made an interesting observation last year. He stated that the defensive stats were skewed against the defence. His reasoning was that with the points OSU put up, offenses had to throw a lot more against them to keep up. Could I have your thoughts on the subject.
DU: Yeah, there's some truth to that. The raw numbers (yardage, points per game) don't really tell the whole story, especially with teams like Oklahoma and Oklahoma State who have a ton of possessions. Generally, the concept of math escapes me, so I'm not overtly attracted to sabermetrics for football, but most of the numbers make sense if you can wrap your head around them.
One pretty simple one is offensive and defensive efficiency, which I came across on Berry Tramel's blog for The Oklahoman this past season. I'm sure I'll get emails from statheads about how someone else came up with it first, but I don't have time for a history lesson on advanced statistics.
Anyway, he put together the numbers for every team in the Big 12 and a few others that's pretty simple: What percentage of your opponents' possessions end in points?
On those numbers, Oklahoma State actually looked pretty good.
Andrew Millar in Houston, Texas, asked: David,It nearly broke my heart to watch Jerrod Johnson throughout the first half of this season in comparison to last season. I'm also saddened he went undrafted, but I'm not really surprised. The UFL will be good for him, but do you ever see him getting out of the UFL and into the big leagues? And if so, in any sort of meaningful fashion?
DU: Yeah, that was tough to watch at times last year. He wasn't even close to the same player. I'm excited to see him if he finally returns to form from his junior year. If that happens, I definitely could see him in the NFL very soon. He's clearly got the size and the arm strength.
My guess is he'll have to shorten his release -- it's elongated because his arms are so long -- and he'll undergo some other tweaks to his mechanics, but if he can show some potential next year, he'll get a shot. Any coach would love to have him in the locker room. He'll learn fast and Mike Sherman can vouch for him.
Kareem in Los Angeles asked: Hey Dubs, you got a statue?
DU: Actually, at one time, I briefly did. He lived on my desk. My freshman year of college, a friend of mine went on vacation and came across a figurine a little bigger than a Coke can that looked exactly like me playing a guitar. Obviously, my friend had to bring him back. He was awesome, and his name was Little Davie Ubbs.
Unfortunately, when I was moving out of my college apartment, he fell off the top shelf of my desk and hit his head on my desk on the way down, shattering himself and his guitar.
Kevbot in Norman, Okla., asked: What are the chances there is a three-way tie between OU, OSU, and A&M with each team having a road loss? Who do you think would get the nod to the Fiesta Bowl or the National Championship (wishful thinking of course)?
DU: I asked a Big 12 official a couple weeks back about the tiebreaker rules, and though it's not official yet, the league sounds like it intends to keep the spirit of the previous tiebreaker rules. So, expect the BCS to come into play if the teams all split their head-to-head matchups.
In that case, No. 1 would go to the top bowl as the Big 12 champ, and the remaining bowls, be it BCS or otherwise, could pick between the other two.
Which Big 12 player will be most improved?
May, 12, 2011
5/12/11
11:00
AM ET
By
David Ubben | ESPN.com
College football is all about promotion and development. Players undergo enormous growth in their time on campus, but every year, there's a handful of guys who make the jump from good to great. Who will make the biggest jump in the Big 12?
Brad Madison led Missouri in sacks last season, but did it as a backup. Fellow defensive end Aldon Smith is gone now, though, and Madison slides into a starting role. What's he have in store for 2011?
Like Madison, Damontre Moore filled in for an injured future top 10 pick early in the season, and excelled. Moore, though, did it as a true freshman. Once Von Miller got to full strength from his ankle injury, Moore was relegated back to the bench. Will he become a household name as a sophomore?
Baylor's Josh Gordon showed some flash as a sophomore in 2010, but has the size and speed to become one of college football's top receivers. Will that potential turn to production?
Joseph Randle caught more passes last year than every running back but DeMarco Murray. This year, though, he'll be counted on in a bigger role in the running game. What will be bring as a sophomore?
Corey Nelson made huge waves this spring, further intensified when Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops called him the best player on the defense. There's no room for him, it would seem, in the starting lineup for the Sooners, but he'll be on the field somehow. Can he crash the party?
Like Madison, Damontre Moore filled in for an injured future top 10 pick early in the season, and excelled. Moore, though, did it as a true freshman. Once Von Miller got to full strength from his ankle injury, Moore was relegated back to the bench. Will he become a household name as a sophomore?
Baylor's Josh Gordon showed some flash as a sophomore in 2010, but has the size and speed to become one of college football's top receivers. Will that potential turn to production?
Joseph Randle caught more passes last year than every running back but DeMarco Murray. This year, though, he'll be counted on in a bigger role in the running game. What will be bring as a sophomore?
Corey Nelson made huge waves this spring, further intensified when Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops called him the best player on the defense. There's no room for him, it would seem, in the starting lineup for the Sooners, but he'll be on the field somehow. Can he crash the party?
MISSOURI
2010 overall record: 10-3
2010 conference record: 6-2
Returning starters: Offense (9), Defense (6) P/K (2)
Top returners: DE Brad Madison, WR T.J. Moe, TE Michael Egnew, RB De’Vion Moore, LB Zaviar Gooden, S Kenji Jackson, LB Will Ebner
Key losses: QB Blaine Gabbert, DE Aldon Smith, LB Andrew Gachkar, CB Kevin Rutland, CB Carl Gettis, C Tim Barnes
2010 statistical leaders (*returners)
Rushing: De’Vion Moore* (517 yards)
Passing: Blaine Gabbert (3,186 yards)
Receiving: T.J. Moe (1,045 yards)
Tackles: Andrew Gachkar, Zaviar Gooden* (84)
Sacks: Brad Madison* (7.5)
Interceptions: Kevin Rutland (3)
Three spring answers
1. Primary concern? Not the secondary. Missouri lost both starting corners, Carl Gettis and Kevin Rutland, from last year’s team, but the secondary could be even better in 2011. Kip Edwards played extensively last year and the coaching staff considers him a returning starter. E.J. Gaines, just a sophomore, could be in for a solid year, too. Don’t expect a big dropoff from the Tigers’ secondary.
2. The next Aldon Smith? Missouri already has a solid duo at defensive end with Jacquies Smith and Brad Madison, but the Tigers found another this spring. Kony Ealy, a 6-foot-5, 250-pound redshirt freshman, was unblockable for stretches during the spring and should find a spot in the rotation of a loaded Missouri defensive line next fall.
3. Tigers find a center. Three-year starting center Tim Barnes is gone, and the search for his replacement was on this spring. Missouri’s reserve centers struggled with snaps at times, but Travis Ruth won the job over Justin Britt after the spring. I wouldn’t expect that to change in the fall.
Three fall questions
1. Is the new QB ready? James Franklin will enter fall as the starter, but Tyler Gabbert is right there with him. The Tigers didn’t settle much this spring, but most agree that this is the best team surrounding the quarterback maybe ever under Gary Pinkel. Once the Tigers figure out who’s starting, can he keep up with what should be a solid team?
2. Paging Sheldon Richardson. The defensive tackle is one of the most highly recruited prospects in Missouri history, and has already signed with the Tigers twice, snubbing USC the second time. He was scheduled to arrive this spring, but he hasn’t officially qualified yet. He’s expected to arrive in June, but if we’ve learned one thing throughout this saga, it’s nothing is a given. If he does eventually arrive, will he be the impact player that his athletic, 6-foot-4, 295-pound frame suggests he could be?
3. Can the offense stretch the field? Missouri’s two top receivers, T.J. Moe and Michael Egnew, are possession receivers that don’t often beat defenses deep. Defenders keyed in on them late in the season, and their production waned a bit. Can Missouri find a player like Danario Alexander or Jeremy Maclin this year to stretch the field and open up more space for Egnew, Moe and the running game?
2010 overall record: 10-3
2010 conference record: 6-2
Returning starters: Offense (9), Defense (6) P/K (2)
Top returners: DE Brad Madison, WR T.J. Moe, TE Michael Egnew, RB De’Vion Moore, LB Zaviar Gooden, S Kenji Jackson, LB Will Ebner
Key losses: QB Blaine Gabbert, DE Aldon Smith, LB Andrew Gachkar, CB Kevin Rutland, CB Carl Gettis, C Tim Barnes
2010 statistical leaders (*returners)
Rushing: De’Vion Moore* (517 yards)
Passing: Blaine Gabbert (3,186 yards)
Receiving: T.J. Moe (1,045 yards)
Tackles: Andrew Gachkar, Zaviar Gooden* (84)
Sacks: Brad Madison* (7.5)
Interceptions: Kevin Rutland (3)
Three spring answers
1. Primary concern? Not the secondary. Missouri lost both starting corners, Carl Gettis and Kevin Rutland, from last year’s team, but the secondary could be even better in 2011. Kip Edwards played extensively last year and the coaching staff considers him a returning starter. E.J. Gaines, just a sophomore, could be in for a solid year, too. Don’t expect a big dropoff from the Tigers’ secondary.
2. The next Aldon Smith? Missouri already has a solid duo at defensive end with Jacquies Smith and Brad Madison, but the Tigers found another this spring. Kony Ealy, a 6-foot-5, 250-pound redshirt freshman, was unblockable for stretches during the spring and should find a spot in the rotation of a loaded Missouri defensive line next fall.
3. Tigers find a center. Three-year starting center Tim Barnes is gone, and the search for his replacement was on this spring. Missouri’s reserve centers struggled with snaps at times, but Travis Ruth won the job over Justin Britt after the spring. I wouldn’t expect that to change in the fall.
Three fall questions
1. Is the new QB ready? James Franklin will enter fall as the starter, but Tyler Gabbert is right there with him. The Tigers didn’t settle much this spring, but most agree that this is the best team surrounding the quarterback maybe ever under Gary Pinkel. Once the Tigers figure out who’s starting, can he keep up with what should be a solid team?
2. Paging Sheldon Richardson. The defensive tackle is one of the most highly recruited prospects in Missouri history, and has already signed with the Tigers twice, snubbing USC the second time. He was scheduled to arrive this spring, but he hasn’t officially qualified yet. He’s expected to arrive in June, but if we’ve learned one thing throughout this saga, it’s nothing is a given. If he does eventually arrive, will he be the impact player that his athletic, 6-foot-4, 295-pound frame suggests he could be?
3. Can the offense stretch the field? Missouri’s two top receivers, T.J. Moe and Michael Egnew, are possession receivers that don’t often beat defenses deep. Defenders keyed in on them late in the season, and their production waned a bit. Can Missouri find a player like Danario Alexander or Jeremy Maclin this year to stretch the field and open up more space for Egnew, Moe and the running game?
Thanks for the questions, all. Let's get started.
Little Stoops in Tallahassee, Fla asked: With my brother coming into town week 3 of the season. What match up's on myside of the ball should I have an advantage on, even tho OU's Offense looks better than last years?
David Ubben: Well, I don't see too many. And either way, Oklahoma will find a way to exploit the places on offense that it has the advantage.
Spoiler alert: If anyone beats Oklahoma this year, it's going to have to put up a ton of points or hope for turnovers. Landry Jones should be better than ever, and he's throwing to a deep corps of receivers, deeper than he's ever had.
The offensive line wasn't fantastic last year, but the only spot that it really struggled was trying to get pushes up front in short-yardage situations against good defenses. On the whole, it was pretty good, and Stoops raved -- unprompted, mind you -- about their progress this spring.
E.J. Manuel is going to have to have a heck of a game if Florida State is going to avenge last year's embarrassment in Norman.
Greg in Texas asked: Which first year coordinator has the most to prove? Which will be most successful?
DU: Most to prove is an interesting question. I'll go with Bryan Harsin at Texas, just because so many people still hate Boise State and don't buy that what the program has done is authentic. Having one of its coaches go off and be successful out from underneath the shadow of Chris Petersen could go a long way for both Harsin and the Boise State program.
As for most successful? In year one, that looks like it'll probably be Todd Monken by a long ways, mostly because of the talent he's inheriting. Success is different than impact, I suppose. He could have the same success that Dana Holgorsen had last year, but I don't think many would consider it the same kind of "impact." Does that matter? Well, that's up to you.
As for long-term success? I'll go with either Josh Heupel or Manny Diaz. Both are on the fast track to becoming head coaches very soon and both are in positions that should be conducive to big-time success.
Emperor Norton in San Francisco asked: In an interview with San Francisco radio station and Niner flagship, KNBR (THE Sports Leader!), Aldon Smith let slip that Niner Coach Jim Harbaugh gave him a 49 question test on football history. Questions included "How wide is the football field and who is Knute Rockne?" I guess Smith passed but what question(s) would you put on such a test?
DU: Yeah, I don't think that's a big deal. Aldon Smith said the field was 50 yards wide. It's 53 1/3. As long as he can see the white lines and understand that if he has the ball, he can't go outside of them, he'll be fine. Not an issue. He also didn't know who Knute Rockne was. Just guessing: He's not the only guy on his team who couldn't place Rockne.
That test isn't any kind of predictor for on-field success. All it is is a tool for a coach to get to know the kind of player he has, and what he needs to do to coach him. Harbaugh's a smart guy. Players will, more often than not, tell a coach what he wants to hear.
I imagine Harbaugh learned a lot by administering that test. Apparently, so did his players.
Chet Anderson in Ames, Iowa asked: What do you see as the realistic best and worse case scenario coming out of Iowa State's QB competition going into the season?
DU: We've seen Jerome Tiller. He didn't look great last year. He's good enough for them to win some games next year and maybe get to a bowl game, but he's not a game-changer.
Steele Jantz? He's still a bit of a wild-card. Best-case scenario: The receivers look completely different this year, Jantz is able to hit them and use his legs to make plays and Iowa State wins 7-8 games.
Worst-case scenario: Iowa State's quarterback position becomes a revolving door with no real optimism for the future. (See: Kansas, 2010)
Adam Penny in Austin, Texas asked: Did the draft prove that the problem at Texas last year was a simple lack of talent.they did not have any first round picks and Baylor had 2. If you look at the 2005 squad almost the entire team is in the NFL
DU: No, not necessarily. On offense, I agree with you, but Texas had three corners drafted, as well as DE Sam Acho. Next year, there should be more Longhorns defenders in the draft. Aaron Williams was pretty close to a first-rounder, too.
People want to point to recruiting rankings, but folks who watched Texas play last year have to be able to see the discrepancy on the two sides of the ball.
Defensively, Texas is still solid, and should have another good year.
Offensively, though? From quarterbacks to running backs to receivers to offensive line, Texas was definitely in the bottom third of the Big 12 in all three last year. Recruiting stars don't equal yards.
Luke in Corpus Christi, Texas asked: Should any of the teams in the Big 12 be calling former NC State QB Russell Wilson? If so which ones?
DU: I don't see it happening. Unlike what we thought in the preseason with Nebraska last year, there aren't any great Big 12 teams in need of a quarterback. Wilson will want to play for a contender. Additionally, he's a North Carolina native and as far as I can tell, has no ties to Texas or any other Big 12 states.
Little Stoops in Tallahassee, Fla asked: With my brother coming into town week 3 of the season. What match up's on myside of the ball should I have an advantage on, even tho OU's Offense looks better than last years?
David Ubben: Well, I don't see too many. And either way, Oklahoma will find a way to exploit the places on offense that it has the advantage.
Spoiler alert: If anyone beats Oklahoma this year, it's going to have to put up a ton of points or hope for turnovers. Landry Jones should be better than ever, and he's throwing to a deep corps of receivers, deeper than he's ever had.
The offensive line wasn't fantastic last year, but the only spot that it really struggled was trying to get pushes up front in short-yardage situations against good defenses. On the whole, it was pretty good, and Stoops raved -- unprompted, mind you -- about their progress this spring.
E.J. Manuel is going to have to have a heck of a game if Florida State is going to avenge last year's embarrassment in Norman.
Greg in Texas asked: Which first year coordinator has the most to prove? Which will be most successful?
DU: Most to prove is an interesting question. I'll go with Bryan Harsin at Texas, just because so many people still hate Boise State and don't buy that what the program has done is authentic. Having one of its coaches go off and be successful out from underneath the shadow of Chris Petersen could go a long way for both Harsin and the Boise State program.
As for most successful? In year one, that looks like it'll probably be Todd Monken by a long ways, mostly because of the talent he's inheriting. Success is different than impact, I suppose. He could have the same success that Dana Holgorsen had last year, but I don't think many would consider it the same kind of "impact." Does that matter? Well, that's up to you.
As for long-term success? I'll go with either Josh Heupel or Manny Diaz. Both are on the fast track to becoming head coaches very soon and both are in positions that should be conducive to big-time success.
Emperor Norton in San Francisco asked: In an interview with San Francisco radio station and Niner flagship, KNBR (THE Sports Leader!), Aldon Smith let slip that Niner Coach Jim Harbaugh gave him a 49 question test on football history. Questions included "How wide is the football field and who is Knute Rockne?" I guess Smith passed but what question(s) would you put on such a test?
DU: Yeah, I don't think that's a big deal. Aldon Smith said the field was 50 yards wide. It's 53 1/3. As long as he can see the white lines and understand that if he has the ball, he can't go outside of them, he'll be fine. Not an issue. He also didn't know who Knute Rockne was. Just guessing: He's not the only guy on his team who couldn't place Rockne.
That test isn't any kind of predictor for on-field success. All it is is a tool for a coach to get to know the kind of player he has, and what he needs to do to coach him. Harbaugh's a smart guy. Players will, more often than not, tell a coach what he wants to hear.
I imagine Harbaugh learned a lot by administering that test. Apparently, so did his players.
Chet Anderson in Ames, Iowa asked: What do you see as the realistic best and worse case scenario coming out of Iowa State's QB competition going into the season?
DU: We've seen Jerome Tiller. He didn't look great last year. He's good enough for them to win some games next year and maybe get to a bowl game, but he's not a game-changer.
Steele Jantz? He's still a bit of a wild-card. Best-case scenario: The receivers look completely different this year, Jantz is able to hit them and use his legs to make plays and Iowa State wins 7-8 games.
Worst-case scenario: Iowa State's quarterback position becomes a revolving door with no real optimism for the future. (See: Kansas, 2010)
Adam Penny in Austin, Texas asked: Did the draft prove that the problem at Texas last year was a simple lack of talent.they did not have any first round picks and Baylor had 2. If you look at the 2005 squad almost the entire team is in the NFL
DU: No, not necessarily. On offense, I agree with you, but Texas had three corners drafted, as well as DE Sam Acho. Next year, there should be more Longhorns defenders in the draft. Aaron Williams was pretty close to a first-rounder, too.
People want to point to recruiting rankings, but folks who watched Texas play last year have to be able to see the discrepancy on the two sides of the ball.
Defensively, Texas is still solid, and should have another good year.
Offensively, though? From quarterbacks to running backs to receivers to offensive line, Texas was definitely in the bottom third of the Big 12 in all three last year. Recruiting stars don't equal yards.
Luke in Corpus Christi, Texas asked: Should any of the teams in the Big 12 be calling former NC State QB Russell Wilson? If so which ones?
DU: I don't see it happening. Unlike what we thought in the preseason with Nebraska last year, there aren't any great Big 12 teams in need of a quarterback. Wilson will want to play for a contender. Additionally, he's a North Carolina native and as far as I can tell, has no ties to Texas or any other Big 12 states.
Sports Illustrated released a list of the top 40 prospects for 2012's NFL Draft, which is a healthy year away from right now.
The Big 12 players on the list?
But how accurate can these lists be a year out from the actual draft? Well, hit or miss, I suppose. Let's take a look back to last year's mock draft for 2011 from Todd McShay back in April 2010, a year before the draft that just occurred over the weekend.
No. 14: Von Miller, LB, Texas A&M
Miller made a late charge up the draft boards with his measurables, running a 4.49 40-yard dash at an unfathomable 255 pounds. The Broncos loved it and took him second overall, behind only Heisman winner Cam Newton. A year under Tim DeRuyter allowed Miller to show he was more than just a pass rusher. He can pursue ball carriers and cover, too.
No. 18: Jeremy Beal, DE, Oklahoma
Beal's production was easy to fall in love with, but he couldn't outrun his less-than-ideal size/speed combination. Beal did a ton on the field, but NFL teams didn't like his measurables and lack of a projected position at the next level. He was drafted in the seventh round.
No. 22: Daniel Thomas, RB, Kansas State
NFL teams seemed to all agree to devalue running backs this year, but Thomas, the No. 2 running back on McShay's list back then, went fifth among running backs and was a second-round pick.
Nowhere to be found on the list, though?
Missouri's Blaine Gabbert, who went 10th overall. The same with Aldon Smith, who was seventh overall. Baylor offensive lineman Danny Watkins and defensive tackle Phil Taylor were also first-round picks who weren't projected as such a year ago.
Neither Gabbert or Smith had outstanding regular seasons. Taylor didn't either. But once NFL teams start to get a long look at players, they can become smitten. Or, on the other hand, not see a player as one that can help them at all for any number of reasons.
A lot can happen between now and then.
The Big 12 players on the list?
- No. 2: Justin Blackmon, WR, Oklahoma State
- No. 10: Cyrus Gray, RB, Texas A&M
- No. 25: Landry Jones, QB, Oklahoma
- No. 28: Ryan Broyles, WR, Oklahoma
- No. 32: Kelechi Osemele, OT, Iowa State
- No. 35: Jeff Fuller, WR, Texas A&M
But how accurate can these lists be a year out from the actual draft? Well, hit or miss, I suppose. Let's take a look back to last year's mock draft for 2011 from Todd McShay back in April 2010, a year before the draft that just occurred over the weekend.
No. 14: Von Miller, LB, Texas A&M
Miller made a late charge up the draft boards with his measurables, running a 4.49 40-yard dash at an unfathomable 255 pounds. The Broncos loved it and took him second overall, behind only Heisman winner Cam Newton. A year under Tim DeRuyter allowed Miller to show he was more than just a pass rusher. He can pursue ball carriers and cover, too.
No. 18: Jeremy Beal, DE, Oklahoma
Beal's production was easy to fall in love with, but he couldn't outrun his less-than-ideal size/speed combination. Beal did a ton on the field, but NFL teams didn't like his measurables and lack of a projected position at the next level. He was drafted in the seventh round.
No. 22: Daniel Thomas, RB, Kansas State
NFL teams seemed to all agree to devalue running backs this year, but Thomas, the No. 2 running back on McShay's list back then, went fifth among running backs and was a second-round pick.
Nowhere to be found on the list, though?
Missouri's Blaine Gabbert, who went 10th overall. The same with Aldon Smith, who was seventh overall. Baylor offensive lineman Danny Watkins and defensive tackle Phil Taylor were also first-round picks who weren't projected as such a year ago.
Neither Gabbert or Smith had outstanding regular seasons. Taylor didn't either. But once NFL teams start to get a long look at players, they can become smitten. Or, on the other hand, not see a player as one that can help them at all for any number of reasons.
A lot can happen between now and then.
The NFL draft has come and gone, and I hope you're all prepared for no more NFL anything for awhile. I know I'm not.
Anyway, here's how the Big 12 shook out over the weekend, with a few thoughts to follow.
First round (8)
Here's how the Big 12 teams ranked in terms of total draftees:
1. Nebraska - 7
2. Baylor - 4
2. Colorado - 4
2. Oklahoma - 4
2. Texas - 4
6. Missouri - 3
7. Kansas State -1
7. Oklahoma State - 1
7. Texas A&M - 1
7. Texas Tech - 1
11. Iowa State - 0
11. Kansas - 0
And the major conferences (counting where players actually played):
SEC - 38
Pac-12 - 33
Big 12 - 30
Big Ten - 29
ACC - 35
Big East - 22
Anyway, here's how the Big 12 shook out over the weekend, with a few thoughts to follow.
First round (8)
- No. 2: Von Miller, OLB, Texas A&M (Denver)
- No. 7: Aldon Smith, DE, Missouri (San Francisco)
- No. 10: Blaine Gabbert, QB, Missouri (Jacksonville)
- No. 17: Nate Solder, OT, Colorado (New England)
- No. 19: Prince Amukamara, CB, Nebraska (New York Giants)
- No. 21: Phil Taylor, DT, Baylor (Cleveland)
- No. 23: Danny Watkins, OL, Baylor (Philadelphia)
- No. 27: Jimmy Smith, CB, Colorado (Baltimore)
- No. 34: Aaron Williams, CB, Texas (Buffalo)
- No. 62: Daniel Thomas, RB, Kansas State (Miami)
- No. 71: DeMarco Murray, RB, Oklahoma (Dallas)
- No. 95: Curtis Brown, CB, Texas (Pittsburgh)
- No. 103: Sam Acho, DE, Texas (Arizona)
- No. 105: Roy Helu Jr., RB, Nebraska (Washington)
- No. 108: Quinton Carter, S, Oklahoma (Denver)
- No. 115: Kendall Hunter, RB, Oklahoma State (San Francisco)
- No. 118: Jalil Brown, CB, Colorado (Kansas City)
- No. 120: Alex Henery, K, Nebraska (Philadelphia)
- No. 146: DeJon Gomes, S, Nebraska (Washington)
- No. 155: Niles Paul, WR, Nebraska (Washington)
- No. 164: Chykie Brown, CB, Texas (Baltimore)
- No. 196: Keith Williams, OL, Nebraska (Pittsburgh)
- No. 216: Mikail Baker, CB, Baylor (St. Louis)
- No. 227: Scotty McKnight, WR, Colorado (New York Jets)
- No. 229: Jonathan Nelson, DB, Oklahoma (St. Louis)
- No. 232: Baron Batch, RB, Texas Tech (Pittsburgh)
- No. 234: Andrew Gachkar, LB, Missouri (San Diego)
- No. 246: Jay Finley, RB, Baylor (Cincinnati)
- No. 247: Jeremy Beal, DE, Oklahoma (Denver)
- No. 248: Eric Hagg, S, Nebraska (Cleveland)
Here's how the Big 12 teams ranked in terms of total draftees:
1. Nebraska - 7
2. Baylor - 4
2. Colorado - 4
2. Oklahoma - 4
2. Texas - 4
6. Missouri - 3
7. Kansas State -1
7. Oklahoma State - 1
7. Texas A&M - 1
7. Texas Tech - 1
11. Iowa State - 0
11. Kansas - 0
And the major conferences (counting where players actually played):
SEC - 38
Pac-12 - 33
Big 12 - 30
Big Ten - 29
ACC - 35
Big East - 22
- Texas A&M had just one player drafted, but the Aggies will have plenty next year, including a handful of possible first-rounders. Cyrus Gray, Ryan Tannehill and Jeff Fuller could all go very early in 2012, depending on what happens between now and then.
- Interesting that Miller went 245 selections before the Big 12's Defensive Player of the Year, according to the media, Jeremy Beal. Also an interesting coincidence? The same team drafted both. I do think Beal will have a productive NFL career, and there's no denying what he did at Oklahoma, but the measurables were never quite there for Beal. What's not measurable? How difficult he is to block. That said, Miller was my vote for the Big 12's Defensive Player of the Year.
- Good to see some hard-working, perhaps under-respected guys get drafted. This was an important year for that, considering those left over won't be able to get into NFL minicamps until the lockout ends and won't be able to do anything to further their NFL careers besides work out on their own. I'll have a post later today on some of those snubs. There's no guarantee that late-drafted guys like Baron Batch, Scotty McKnight, Jay Finley or Eric Hagg will catch on in the the pros, but I'd be willing to guarantee they'll do everything in their power to maximize what opportunities they get.
- One of the most interesting selections? Mikail Baker. He wasn't invited to the combine, and played just one full season on defense at Baylor after working as a kick returner and a cornerback in 2009 before a season-ending knee injury. You don't see that kind of impressive athleticism at Baylor traditionally.
- Let the debate continue: Kendall Hunter vs. DeMarco Murray. Murray getting drafted 40-some spots earlier only intensified that discussion, if you ask me.
- Also, what's more impressive from Art Briles? That Baylor had four picks, the most in school history since 1996? Or that despite those four picks, Baylor's returning an even better team than last season, when it ended a 16-year bowl drought?
- Colorado's draft, meanwhile? Not exactly a ringing endorsement for Dan Hawkins' coaching job in Boulder.
- Alex Henery didn't win the Lou Groza Award, but his fourth-round selection makes him the earliest kicker draft pick since 2006. Will that end the state of Nebraska's blood feud against respectable OSU kicker Dan Bailey, who did win the Lou Groza Award? I doubt it. (Save your emails. For the 100th time, I agree, Nebraska fans. Henery > Bailey.)
- A few guys who went way lower than I thought they would. In order of my surprise level: Beal, Gabbert, Amukamara, Hagg, Hunter.
- A few guys who went way higher than I thought, in the same order: Aldon Smith, Batch, Gachkar, Baker.
[+] Enlarge
Matthew Emmons/US PresswireOklahoma defensive end Jeremy Beal was drafted in the seventh round by Denver.
Matthew Emmons/US PresswireOklahoma defensive end Jeremy Beal was drafted in the seventh round by Denver.Lunch links: All-access with Blaine Gabbert
April, 29, 2011
4/29/11
12:00
PM ET
By
David Ubben | ESPN.com
You ever play Russian roulette? Time to spin the chamber, Boris.
- Vahe Gregorian of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch was in New York for the draft and chronicled Blaine Gabbert's draft day. If the Jaguars take it slow, writes Bernie Miklasz of the Post-Dispatch, the pick could pay off, too.
- Could Kansas State long-snapper Corey Adams get a call from an NFL team this weekend? Bill Snyder thinks he should, reports Kellis Robinett of the Wichita Eagle.
- Tom Kensler of the Denver Post had some good stuff while waiting with Colorado lineman Nate Solder to be drafted. He gave a ringing endorsement of Texas A&M LB Von Miller, and didn't like it too much when Missouri DE Aldon Smith's highlights included him beating Solder.
- Texas Tech officials aren't commenting on Tommy Tuberville's comments about President Obama earlier this week. (Personal note: this is so, so far on the side of non-story. Unfortunate timing -- Obama releasing his birth certificate the following day -- is the only reason anyone cares about this. But the two things had just about nothing to do with each other.) Also, if you care about a college sports coach's political leanings, well, I just don't know what to tell you.
- Oklahoma landed the fifth commitment of its 2011 class on Thursday.
- Missouri was one of the draft's big winners, writes Paul Myerberg at Pre-Snap Read.
- Here's Mel Kiper's mock draft for the second round later today.
- Baylor's site has an all-access look with Danny Watkins and Phil Taylor, last night's first-round picks from Baylor.
- What does the first round mean for a handful of former Jayhawks? More than you might think. Matt Tait of the Lawrence Journal-World has a look.
Does this draft signify a future Big 12 shift?
April, 29, 2011
4/29/11
9:00
AM ET
By
David Ubben | ESPN.com
The last time Texas and Oklahoma didn't have a first-round pick?
That was 1998.
The following year, Kansas State and Texas A&M battled for the Big 12 title, with the Aggies earning a berth in the Sugar Bowl.
Every year since, the Sooners or Longhorns have played for a Big 12 title -- winning nine of 12 championships -- and at least one program had a first-rounder the following April.
That streak ended on Thursday night. In a new 10-team Big 12, could we see a new champion come fall? Texas or Oklahoma have won every Big 12 title since 2004.
Oklahoma will be a tough out next year, likely to open the season atop the polls. Next year, they're sure to have at least one first-round pick, and perhaps more. Texas struggled to a 5-7 season in 2010 and will start anew with a handful of fresh faces on the coaching staff in 2011.
But Oklahoma and Texas aside, it's impossible to ignore the rise that other programs in the Big 12 have experienced, culminating in a historic night for three programs.
Excusing Texas' last season, this year's first round is more about Big 12 programs building something big than Oklahoma or Texas eroding.
Want to give your program added credibility? Draft picks are second only to wins in doing so. Nights like these schools had will pay off on the recruiting trail in the future.
Baylor topped the list, adding its second and third first-round picks in Big 12 history. Before Jason Smith in 2009, the Bears hadn't had one. The last time two players from the program were picked in the first round in the same year? 1957.
Phil Taylor and Danny Watkins both were drafted earlier than projected, with Taylor headed to the Cleveland Browns and Watkins the Philadelphia Eagles. Along the way, Watkins provided one of the night's signature moments when his five Canadian firefighter buddies cheered him on from the stands with Watkins pointing in their direction from the stage.
Missouri is further along in its own rise, adding a pair of top 10 picks after having none since Justin Smith went fourth overall in 2001. Aldon Smith pulled a surprise, going seventh overall to the San Francisco 49ers, significantly earlier than most mock drafts had placed him, and shockingly, ahead of his quarterback. Blaine Gabbert followed three picks later, when the Jacksonville Jaguars selected him at No. 10.
That gave the Tigers five first-round picks in three years after Smith had previously been the lone first-rounder for Mizzou since the Big 12 began in 1996.
Von Miller went No. 2 to the Denver Broncos, the Aggies first first-round pick since 2003.
Missouri's come the closest of any team in that group to a Big 12 title, reaching the Big 12 title game in 2007 and 2008, where it lost to Oklahoma.
Will either of the three teams eventually reach a Big 12 title? Who knows. But it's clear that all three programs have coaches that are getting them closer and closer.
All three teams are deeper than ever, well-equipped to weather this talent drain. Texas A&M should start the season in the top 15 and looks like a title contender. Despite losing Gabbert, Missouri is better than ever nearly everywhere else. Baylor is building on its first bowl appearance since 1994 and has a great chance to exceed its seven wins from 2010.
Texas and Oklahoma have run the Big 12 on the field for a long time. There are no guarantees in this game, but last night's draft is more evidence that their monopoly could be in jeopardy.
That was 1998.
The following year, Kansas State and Texas A&M battled for the Big 12 title, with the Aggies earning a berth in the Sugar Bowl.
Every year since, the Sooners or Longhorns have played for a Big 12 title -- winning nine of 12 championships -- and at least one program had a first-rounder the following April.
[+] Enlarge
Jerry Lai/US PresswireVon Miller, the No. 2 overall pick, was the first Aggie taken in the first round since 2003.
Jerry Lai/US PresswireVon Miller, the No. 2 overall pick, was the first Aggie taken in the first round since 2003.Oklahoma will be a tough out next year, likely to open the season atop the polls. Next year, they're sure to have at least one first-round pick, and perhaps more. Texas struggled to a 5-7 season in 2010 and will start anew with a handful of fresh faces on the coaching staff in 2011.
But Oklahoma and Texas aside, it's impossible to ignore the rise that other programs in the Big 12 have experienced, culminating in a historic night for three programs.
Excusing Texas' last season, this year's first round is more about Big 12 programs building something big than Oklahoma or Texas eroding.
Want to give your program added credibility? Draft picks are second only to wins in doing so. Nights like these schools had will pay off on the recruiting trail in the future.
Baylor topped the list, adding its second and third first-round picks in Big 12 history. Before Jason Smith in 2009, the Bears hadn't had one. The last time two players from the program were picked in the first round in the same year? 1957.
Phil Taylor and Danny Watkins both were drafted earlier than projected, with Taylor headed to the Cleveland Browns and Watkins the Philadelphia Eagles. Along the way, Watkins provided one of the night's signature moments when his five Canadian firefighter buddies cheered him on from the stands with Watkins pointing in their direction from the stage.
Missouri is further along in its own rise, adding a pair of top 10 picks after having none since Justin Smith went fourth overall in 2001. Aldon Smith pulled a surprise, going seventh overall to the San Francisco 49ers, significantly earlier than most mock drafts had placed him, and shockingly, ahead of his quarterback. Blaine Gabbert followed three picks later, when the Jacksonville Jaguars selected him at No. 10.
That gave the Tigers five first-round picks in three years after Smith had previously been the lone first-rounder for Mizzou since the Big 12 began in 1996.
Von Miller went No. 2 to the Denver Broncos, the Aggies first first-round pick since 2003.
Missouri's come the closest of any team in that group to a Big 12 title, reaching the Big 12 title game in 2007 and 2008, where it lost to Oklahoma.
Will either of the three teams eventually reach a Big 12 title? Who knows. But it's clear that all three programs have coaches that are getting them closer and closer.
All three teams are deeper than ever, well-equipped to weather this talent drain. Texas A&M should start the season in the top 15 and looks like a title contender. Despite losing Gabbert, Missouri is better than ever nearly everywhere else. Baylor is building on its first bowl appearance since 1994 and has a great chance to exceed its seven wins from 2010.
Texas and Oklahoma have run the Big 12 on the field for a long time. There are no guarantees in this game, but last night's draft is more evidence that their monopoly could be in jeopardy.
49ers go with surprise in MU's Aldon Smith
April, 28, 2011
4/28/11
8:48
PM ET
By
David Ubben | ESPN.com
Raw is the word you'll hear most associated with Aldon Smith.
SmithThe 6-foot-4, 263-pound sophomore showed enough in two seasons at Missouri to convince San Fransisco to cash in on his upside with the seventh pick of the draft.
He entered the 2010 season as one of the Big 12's best pass-rushers, but was slowed by a broken bone in his leg. His numbers didn't show it as a sophomore, but once he's healthy next year, he'll get a chance to show the wow-worthy athleticism that gave Big 12 offenses fits during his time at Missouri.
Another year in Columbia would have meant an even scarier and more developed Smith, but at the seventh pick, there's no blaming him if he wants to do his developing at the next level.
Most interesting? Smith is off the board before his teammate, quarterback Blaine Gabbert.
He entered the 2010 season as one of the Big 12's best pass-rushers, but was slowed by a broken bone in his leg. His numbers didn't show it as a sophomore, but once he's healthy next year, he'll get a chance to show the wow-worthy athleticism that gave Big 12 offenses fits during his time at Missouri.
Another year in Columbia would have meant an even scarier and more developed Smith, but at the seventh pick, there's no blaming him if he wants to do his developing at the next level.
Most interesting? Smith is off the board before his teammate, quarterback Blaine Gabbert.
Kiper's Big Board, mock get final polish
April, 28, 2011
4/28/11
11:00
AM ET
By
David Ubben | ESPN.com
The lights will be on shortly, but Mel Kiper has released his final Big Board 
, a list of the top 25 available prospects, leading up to tonight's draft.
Of his first board a year ago, nine of the top 10 prospects are expected to be first-round picks, and Andrew Luck is still in school.
Here's where the Big 12's talent stacked up:
No. 2: Von Miller, OLB, Texas A&M
Analysis: Miller can impact NFL games early in his career as a pass-rushing 3-4 outside linebacker, but he also has coverage skills. Heady, big-time athlete.
No. 12: Aldon Smith, DE, Missouri
Analysis: Ideal frame, athleticism to consider for 4-3 or 3-4; still developing but a ton of upside. Athletic enough with size to be versatile. Jumps off tape.
No. 14: Blaine Gabbert, QB, Missouri
Analysis: Strong arm, good accuracy, ideal size and physical skills. An underrated athlete. Had a solid but unspectacular pro day. Will go high.
He also submitted his final mock draft before the real thing tonight. Here's where he slotted the Big 12's stars.
No. 2, Denver Broncos: Von Miller, LB, Texas A&M
...if you want dynamic upside, it's hard to go wrong with Miller. ... Miller is a smart, explosive, natural pass-rusher with the speed to track down QBs and also drop into coverage, then play the run down the line. Miller is a special talent and is a common pick as the rookie who can provide the most immediate impact.
No. 7, San Francisco 49ers: Blaine Gabbert, QB, Missouri
This time, I think Gabbert lands here. While Jim Harbaugh has taken the dignified route and stated how much he wants to work with Alex Smith, I think it's pretty fair to assume the Niners will be looking for a long-term solution for their new coach. ... Like Newton, this isn't a quarterback you want starting games in 2011, but if San Francisco is patient, Gabbert is a player it can build with.
No. 11, Houston Texans: Aldon Smith, DE, Missouri
Smith represents a ton of upside for a defense that really needs to add some pass-rushing help opposite the great Mario Williams. Again, a lot of the problems in the Houston secondary started up front.
No. 30, New York Jets: Phil Taylor, DT, Baylor
Taylor is a player that holds up as that immovable anchor against the run, a guy who can eat up blocks and let the linebackers in Rex Ryan's system run free.
No. 31, Pittsburgh Steelers: Aaron Williams, CB, Texas
Williams is the classic young, talented risk-taker at the cornerback position. He has a ton of natural ability, likes to steal a look into the backfield and turn errant passes into six points going the other way. While some see him ultimately becoming a great cover safety, I think he's a got a shot to be coached into a really good cover corner.
No. 32, Green Bay Packers: Danny Watkins, OG, Baylor
This team must do more to run the ball, must do more to shore up protection and must add depth on the offensive line. Watkins is a safe pick, a guy who helps right away.
, a list of the top 25 available prospects, leading up to tonight's draft.
Of his first board a year ago, nine of the top 10 prospects are expected to be first-round picks, and Andrew Luck is still in school.
Here's where the Big 12's talent stacked up:
No. 2: Von Miller, OLB, Texas A&M
Analysis: Miller can impact NFL games early in his career as a pass-rushing 3-4 outside linebacker, but he also has coverage skills. Heady, big-time athlete.
No. 12: Aldon Smith, DE, Missouri
Analysis: Ideal frame, athleticism to consider for 4-3 or 3-4; still developing but a ton of upside. Athletic enough with size to be versatile. Jumps off tape.
No. 14: Blaine Gabbert, QB, Missouri
Analysis: Strong arm, good accuracy, ideal size and physical skills. An underrated athlete. Had a solid but unspectacular pro day. Will go high.
He also submitted his final mock draft before the real thing tonight. Here's where he slotted the Big 12's stars.
No. 2, Denver Broncos: Von Miller, LB, Texas A&M
...if you want dynamic upside, it's hard to go wrong with Miller. ... Miller is a smart, explosive, natural pass-rusher with the speed to track down QBs and also drop into coverage, then play the run down the line. Miller is a special talent and is a common pick as the rookie who can provide the most immediate impact.
No. 7, San Francisco 49ers: Blaine Gabbert, QB, Missouri
This time, I think Gabbert lands here. While Jim Harbaugh has taken the dignified route and stated how much he wants to work with Alex Smith, I think it's pretty fair to assume the Niners will be looking for a long-term solution for their new coach. ... Like Newton, this isn't a quarterback you want starting games in 2011, but if San Francisco is patient, Gabbert is a player it can build with.
No. 11, Houston Texans: Aldon Smith, DE, Missouri
Smith represents a ton of upside for a defense that really needs to add some pass-rushing help opposite the great Mario Williams. Again, a lot of the problems in the Houston secondary started up front.
No. 30, New York Jets: Phil Taylor, DT, Baylor
Taylor is a player that holds up as that immovable anchor against the run, a guy who can eat up blocks and let the linebackers in Rex Ryan's system run free.
No. 31, Pittsburgh Steelers: Aaron Williams, CB, Texas
Williams is the classic young, talented risk-taker at the cornerback position. He has a ton of natural ability, likes to steal a look into the backfield and turn errant passes into six points going the other way. While some see him ultimately becoming a great cover safety, I think he's a got a shot to be coached into a really good cover corner.
No. 32, Green Bay Packers: Danny Watkins, OG, Baylor
This team must do more to run the ball, must do more to shore up protection and must add depth on the offensive line. Watkins is a safe pick, a guy who helps right away.
Breaking down the defensive draft boards
April, 28, 2011
4/28/11
10:00
AM ET
By
David Ubben | ESPN.com
We took a look at the offensive draft boards on Wednesday, and on the day of the draft we'll turn to the defense.
Analyst Todd McShay broke down the skill sets of each draftable player on the board and ranked them by those skill sets, divided up by position.
Here's what he had to say.
Defensive line
Analyst Todd McShay broke down the skill sets of each draftable player on the board and ranked them by those skill sets, divided up by position.
Here's what he had to say.
Defensive line
- Missouri's Aldon Smith was No. 3 on his versatility list, ranking defensive ends by their athleticism and ability to change direction and play in space.
- Baylor's Phil Taylor ranks No. 3 among defensive tackles as run-stoppers.
- Smith is No. 7 among overall defensive line prospects.
- Taylor is No. 11 overall at the position.
- Texas' Sam Acho is the No. 24 defensive line prospect.
- Oklahoma's Jeremy Beal is No. 25 on the list.
- Oklahoma State's Ugo Chinasa is No. 44.
- Oklahoma State's Orie Lemon is No. 3 on the strength/toughness list among inside linebackers.
- Texas A&M's Von Miller is No. 2 among outside linebackers in range against the run.
- Miller is the No. 1 surest tackler among outside linebackers.
- Miller is the No. 1 overall linebacker prospect.
- Lemon is the No. 22 linebacker prospect.
- Texas' Aaron Williams is the No. 4 overall defensive back.
- Texas' Curtis Brown is the No. 12 overall defensive back.
- Oklahoma safety Quinton Carter is No. 15.
- Texas' Chykie Brown is No. 33.
- Iowa State safety David Sims is No. 42.
- Oklahoma cornerback Jonathan Nelson is No. 53
- Oklahoma State cornerback Andrew McGee is No. 54.
- Missouri cornerback Kevin Rutland is No. 55.
Lunch links: The case for unequal revenue
April, 26, 2011
4/26/11
12:00
PM ET
By
David Ubben | ESPN.com
Somebody get Russell Westbrook a Kevin Durant highlight reel.
- Nine of the 11 members reviewing the Fiesta Bowl's fate in the BCS attended a Fiesta Bowl-sponsored retreat with free food, lodging and golf. Yikes.
- NFL.com has a high-quality video piece featuring Blaine Gabbert's pro day at Missouri and Von Miller back home in Desoto, Texas. Great behind-the-scenes stuff here. This is your must-see link of the day.
- Toben Opurum, Kansas' leading rusher in 2009, has found a home and is excelling at defensive end, writes J. Brady McCollough of the Kansas City Star.
- Still think unequal conference revenue sharing is unfair and hurts the league? This might change your mind.
- The move to the NFL is just one more transition in a life full of them for Missouri defensive end Aldon Smith, writes Kent Babb of the Kansas City Star.
- Kansas has a passion and focus in practice that hasn't been there in the past, writes Matt Tait of the Lawrence Journal-World.
- Andy Staples at SI.com looks back at how the NFL's potential first-round picks in 2011 were rated as recruits.
- The onus to prepare for blue-chip running back Johnathan Gray is on Texas' offensive line, which may go three years without an NFL draftee, writes Kirk Bohls of the Austin American-Statesman.
- How much did the BCS Top 25 spend on recruiting last year? Kristi Dosh at Forbes.com has the numbers.
- Mike Dearmond of the Kansas City Star has some thoughts on Missouri's post-spring depth chart.
Five from Big 12 headed to NYC for draft
April, 25, 2011
4/25/11
1:15
PM ET
By
David Ubben | ESPN.com
Believe it or not, we're finally just days away from the NFL draft, which begins on Thursday night. All the mocking is almost over and the real thing is upon us.
Today, the NFL released its list of 25 players headed to the draft at Radio City Music Hall, and five players from the Big 12 plan to make the trip.
The group will get to New York this week and, as per tradition, take part in several events leading up to the draft.
The Big 12 won't dominate the draft like it did last year with six of the top nine picks and nine first-rounders, but of the group headed north, there are plenty of interesting stories.
Watkins, a former Canadian firefighter, is bringing five of his firefighting friends with him to the draft. He says they're responsible for him getting a start and wanted to pay tribute.
Miller is the only rookie plaintiff in the players' current lawsuit against the NFL, and just weeks after sitting in a courtroom to sue the NFL, he'll shake commissioner Roger Goodell's hand when his name is called Thursday night.
Finally, Gabbert still has a chance to go No. 1 overall, depending on what the Carolina Panthers decide to do.
Thursday should be an entertaining night, and I'll definitely be watching. I suggest you do the same. We'll get started on ESPN at 8 p.m. ET.
Today, the NFL released its list of 25 players headed to the draft at Radio City Music Hall, and five players from the Big 12 plan to make the trip.
- Blaine Gabbert, QB, Missouri
- Von Miller, LB, Texas A&M
- Aldon Smith, DE, Missouri
- Phil Taylor, DT, Baylor
- Danny Watkins, OL, Baylor
The group will get to New York this week and, as per tradition, take part in several events leading up to the draft.
The Big 12 won't dominate the draft like it did last year with six of the top nine picks and nine first-rounders, but of the group headed north, there are plenty of interesting stories.
Watkins, a former Canadian firefighter, is bringing five of his firefighting friends with him to the draft. He says they're responsible for him getting a start and wanted to pay tribute.
Miller is the only rookie plaintiff in the players' current lawsuit against the NFL, and just weeks after sitting in a courtroom to sue the NFL, he'll shake commissioner Roger Goodell's hand when his name is called Thursday night.
Finally, Gabbert still has a chance to go No. 1 overall, depending on what the Carolina Panthers decide to do.
Thursday should be an entertaining night, and I'll definitely be watching. I suggest you do the same. We'll get started on ESPN at 8 p.m. ET.
ABOUT THIS BLOG
David Ubben
Ubben joined ESPN.com in March 2010 after covering Big 12 football for two seasons at the Columbia Missourian and The Oklahoman. Ubben, a native of Springdale, Ark., lives in Dallas.
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