Big 12: Meshak Williams
2011 overall record: 10-3
2011 conference record: 7-2
Returning starters: Offense 9; defense 7; P/K (2)
Top returners:
QB Collin Klein, RB John Hubert, LB Arthur Brown, CB Nigel Malone, WR Tyler Lockett, LB Tre Walker, WR Chris Harper
Key losses:
CB David Garrett, LB Emmanuel Lamur, S Tysyn Hartman, DL Ray Kibble, DE Jordan Voelker
2011 statistical leaders (*returners)
Rushing: Collin Klein* (1,141 yards)
Passing: Collin Klein* (1,918 yards)
Receiving: Chris Harper* (547 yards)
Tackles: Arthur Brown* (101)
Sacks: Meshak Williams* (7)
Interceptions: Nigel Malone* (7)
Spring answers
1. Filling the void left behind by Garrett: David Garrett was one of the biggest playmakers for the K-State defense, but Allen Chapman seems to have locked down the assignment of replacing him in 2012. The California juco transfer broke up four passes last year and returned his only interception 60 yards for a touchdown. K-State's secondary should be solid. Kip Daily will also help out at corner.
2. Collin Klein can chuck it: You have to take into account that Klein did it against second-teamers and that the quarterbacks have put up big numbers in spring games, but his 47-of-56, 480-yard performance is encouraging. He won't do that during the fall, but it's a good sign that Klein's improvement was obvious in the one practice fans or media were allowed to see.
3. Lockett returns: Tyler Lockett was the most explosive talent on an offense mostly devoid of home run threats, but a lacerated kidney ended his 2011 season early. Lockett returned and practiced this spring, but reportedly had another minor injury before the spring game, depriving us of a chance to see him back in action. Still, it sounds like he'll be back in the fall.
Fall questions
1. Can Kansas State validate its surprising 2011? The Wildcats memorably won eight games in 2011 by a touchdown or less, ascending to a second-place finish in the Big 12 after being picked to finish eighth. Advanced college football statistics suggest K-State is due for a regression in 2012, but this is Bill Snyder we're talking about. His team will be better in 2012. Can its record improve, too? Klein must remain healthy after leading the Big 12 in carries last season.
2. Who's filling in for Tysyn Hartman? Hartman had loads of experience and was one of the most intelligent players on the team. The Wildcats don't have many question marks, but who replaces Hartman is one. They'll still have competition between Thomas Ferguson, Randall Evans and Jarard Milo this fall to win the job.
3. What will the offensive line look like? Kansas State was the Big 12's most physical team in 2011 because of their strong offensive line. K-State loses three starters, and there's no doubt that if there's one thing that derails K-State in the fall, it's the new faces on the line. B.J. Finney is a stud at center, and Nick Puetz is solid, but the other three spots on the line didn't sound like they were sewn up by the end of spring.
2011 conference record: 7-2
Returning starters: Offense 9; defense 7; P/K (2)
Top returners:
QB Collin Klein, RB John Hubert, LB Arthur Brown, CB Nigel Malone, WR Tyler Lockett, LB Tre Walker, WR Chris Harper
Key losses:
CB David Garrett, LB Emmanuel Lamur, S Tysyn Hartman, DL Ray Kibble, DE Jordan Voelker
2011 statistical leaders (*returners)
Rushing: Collin Klein* (1,141 yards)
Passing: Collin Klein* (1,918 yards)
Receiving: Chris Harper* (547 yards)
Tackles: Arthur Brown* (101)
Sacks: Meshak Williams* (7)
Interceptions: Nigel Malone* (7)
Spring answers
1. Filling the void left behind by Garrett: David Garrett was one of the biggest playmakers for the K-State defense, but Allen Chapman seems to have locked down the assignment of replacing him in 2012. The California juco transfer broke up four passes last year and returned his only interception 60 yards for a touchdown. K-State's secondary should be solid. Kip Daily will also help out at corner.
2. Collin Klein can chuck it: You have to take into account that Klein did it against second-teamers and that the quarterbacks have put up big numbers in spring games, but his 47-of-56, 480-yard performance is encouraging. He won't do that during the fall, but it's a good sign that Klein's improvement was obvious in the one practice fans or media were allowed to see.
3. Lockett returns: Tyler Lockett was the most explosive talent on an offense mostly devoid of home run threats, but a lacerated kidney ended his 2011 season early. Lockett returned and practiced this spring, but reportedly had another minor injury before the spring game, depriving us of a chance to see him back in action. Still, it sounds like he'll be back in the fall.
Fall questions
1. Can Kansas State validate its surprising 2011? The Wildcats memorably won eight games in 2011 by a touchdown or less, ascending to a second-place finish in the Big 12 after being picked to finish eighth. Advanced college football statistics suggest K-State is due for a regression in 2012, but this is Bill Snyder we're talking about. His team will be better in 2012. Can its record improve, too? Klein must remain healthy after leading the Big 12 in carries last season.
2. Who's filling in for Tysyn Hartman? Hartman had loads of experience and was one of the most intelligent players on the team. The Wildcats don't have many question marks, but who replaces Hartman is one. They'll still have competition between Thomas Ferguson, Randall Evans and Jarard Milo this fall to win the job.
3. What will the offensive line look like? Kansas State was the Big 12's most physical team in 2011 because of their strong offensive line. K-State loses three starters, and there's no doubt that if there's one thing that derails K-State in the fall, it's the new faces on the line. B.J. Finney is a stud at center, and Nick Puetz is solid, but the other three spots on the line didn't sound like they were sewn up by the end of spring.
We're offering up grades for each team in the Big 12 after their seasons conclude, so here's a look at how the 10-3 Kansas State Wildcats graded out in 2011.
More report cards:
OFFENSE: Before the season, the outlook for this group looked grim. It was headed by an inexperienced quarterback who'd only thrown a handful of passes, and an unproven transfer named Bryce Brown would be charged with filling the role of NFL-bound workhorse Daniel Thomas.
Or so we thought, anyway. Who knew Collin Klein was a stud that became more of a workhorse than Thomas -- the Big 12 leader in carries and rushing the past two seasons -- ever was?
Well, Bill Snyder probably did. Or at least had a hunch. Klein carried the Wildcats on his back, complete with perpetually bleeding elbows and led the Big 12 in carries, toting the ball 317 times, 67 more than any other ballcarrier in the Big 12. He wasn't the only one. K-State's ground attack also relied on the lightly-recruited John Hubert, a Waco native who filled in for Brown. Brown left the team in midseason after struggling early and carrying the ball just three times, fumbling once. He added 970 yards of his own.
The offensive line was one of the Big 12's best, and the receivers were good enough. This unit, though, revolved around Klein, who turned out better than anyone expected, tying the Big 12 record for rushing touchdowns with 27, and giving way to Heisman hype for 2012.
GRADE: A
DEFENSE: Stop me if you've heard this before, but the expectations for this group were ... let's say measured. That's what happens when you give up 3,000 rushing yards in a single season. Only two teams did it this season. Kansas State did it in 2010.
Enter Arthur Brown and Nigel Malone. The Miami transfer/linebacker and junior college transfer/cornerback checked in and gave K-State a much-needed speed boost that helped the rest of the defense look pretty good. Defensive ends Jordan Voelker and Meshak Williams combined for 11 sacks and provided a pass rush that was non-existent in 2010. None of the teams top five sackers in 2010 were defensive ends.
Fellow corner David Garrett had another solid season for the Wildcats, too. The ball-control offense perhaps inflated the defensive numbers, but K-State held its own for 13 games this season against a ton of great offenses. Well done.
GRADE: A
OVERALL: This year was one Kansas State won't soon forget. Snyder hates comparing his teams, but admitted at the end of the season this team grew more than just about any he'd ever have. That's pretty obvious.
After a season-opening 10-7 win over Eastern Kentucky (let me repeat that: a 10-7 win over Eastern Kentucky) I dropped the unimpressive 'Cats all the way to ninth in the Big 12 Power Rankings. They finished the season at No. 2. That's a heck of a season.
Yeah, Kansas State got fortunate in a few spots to win games late. But it won, and the wins as underdogs grew even more impressive by the week. Wins over Miami, Baylor, Missouri and Texas Tech helped push the Wildcats to a 7-0 start and gave them four consecutive wins as an underdog, despite getting outgained in each game. That's pretty unbelievable.
Believe it.
GRADE: A+
More report cards:
OFFENSE: Before the season, the outlook for this group looked grim. It was headed by an inexperienced quarterback who'd only thrown a handful of passes, and an unproven transfer named Bryce Brown would be charged with filling the role of NFL-bound workhorse Daniel Thomas.
Or so we thought, anyway. Who knew Collin Klein was a stud that became more of a workhorse than Thomas -- the Big 12 leader in carries and rushing the past two seasons -- ever was?
Well, Bill Snyder probably did. Or at least had a hunch. Klein carried the Wildcats on his back, complete with perpetually bleeding elbows and led the Big 12 in carries, toting the ball 317 times, 67 more than any other ballcarrier in the Big 12. He wasn't the only one. K-State's ground attack also relied on the lightly-recruited John Hubert, a Waco native who filled in for Brown. Brown left the team in midseason after struggling early and carrying the ball just three times, fumbling once. He added 970 yards of his own.
The offensive line was one of the Big 12's best, and the receivers were good enough. This unit, though, revolved around Klein, who turned out better than anyone expected, tying the Big 12 record for rushing touchdowns with 27, and giving way to Heisman hype for 2012.
GRADE: A
DEFENSE: Stop me if you've heard this before, but the expectations for this group were ... let's say measured. That's what happens when you give up 3,000 rushing yards in a single season. Only two teams did it this season. Kansas State did it in 2010.
Enter Arthur Brown and Nigel Malone. The Miami transfer/linebacker and junior college transfer/cornerback checked in and gave K-State a much-needed speed boost that helped the rest of the defense look pretty good. Defensive ends Jordan Voelker and Meshak Williams combined for 11 sacks and provided a pass rush that was non-existent in 2010. None of the teams top five sackers in 2010 were defensive ends.
Fellow corner David Garrett had another solid season for the Wildcats, too. The ball-control offense perhaps inflated the defensive numbers, but K-State held its own for 13 games this season against a ton of great offenses. Well done.
GRADE: A
OVERALL: This year was one Kansas State won't soon forget. Snyder hates comparing his teams, but admitted at the end of the season this team grew more than just about any he'd ever have. That's pretty obvious.
After a season-opening 10-7 win over Eastern Kentucky (let me repeat that: a 10-7 win over Eastern Kentucky) I dropped the unimpressive 'Cats all the way to ninth in the Big 12 Power Rankings. They finished the season at No. 2. That's a heck of a season.
Yeah, Kansas State got fortunate in a few spots to win games late. But it won, and the wins as underdogs grew even more impressive by the week. Wins over Miami, Baylor, Missouri and Texas Tech helped push the Wildcats to a 7-0 start and gave them four consecutive wins as an underdog, despite getting outgained in each game. That's pretty unbelievable.
Believe it.
GRADE: A+
Meshak Williams carted off after injury
January, 6, 2012
Jan 6
11:31
PM ET
By
David Ubben | ESPN.com
ARLINGTON, Texas -- Kansas State defensive end Meshak Williams was injured late in the first half of the AT&T Cotton Bowl Classic after helmet-to-helmet contact with a teammate while trying to make a tackle.
Williams remained on his back after the play in the closing seconds of the second quarter.
Medical personnel tended to Williams on the field for several minutes before putting him on a stretcher, then on a cart. Williams gave a thumbs-up signal while being placed on the cart, then extended his right arm high and flashed a Wildcats sign.
Williams was pursuing Arkansas quarterback Tyler Wilson, who ducked to avoid being hit. Williams then made contact with linebacker Emmanuel Lamur, who was coming from the other side.
There was no immediate word of Williams' specific injury or condition.
Williams remained on his back after the play in the closing seconds of the second quarter.
Medical personnel tended to Williams on the field for several minutes before putting him on a stretcher, then on a cart. Williams gave a thumbs-up signal while being placed on the cart, then extended his right arm high and flashed a Wildcats sign.
Williams was pursuing Arkansas quarterback Tyler Wilson, who ducked to avoid being hit. Williams then made contact with linebacker Emmanuel Lamur, who was coming from the other side.
There was no immediate word of Williams' specific injury or condition.
Halftime analysis: Arkansas 19, K-State 9
January, 6, 2012
Jan 6
10:15
PM ET
By
David Ubben | ESPN.com
ARLINGTON, Texas -- Is this the same K-State team? Are we sure?
The Wildcats' play all season has been marked by precision and a lack of mistakes. The result was 10 wins. In the first half, they've been penalized four times and have turned the ball over. They're getting beat in the special teams, too, giving up a huge play on a punt return.
Arkansas has to be feeling good about that half, with the exception of a late fumble.
K-State also had a scary situation late in the half. Defensive end Meshak Williams took a helmet-to-helmet hit from teammate Emmanuel Lamur and had to be carted off. Medical personnel removed his face mask and were stabilizing his neck, according to sideline reports.
Time for some further analysis.
Turning point: Joe Adams' punt return. He's the most electrifying player in this game by a long shot, and he showed why with a shifty 51-yard punt return. His fourth return for a touchdown in 2011, and fifth in his career, tied the single-season SEC record and totally turned the first half. Arkansas' offense hasn't been great, but Adams got the crowd going. Yeah, he got some help from a block in the back (or two), but nobody was catching him on that play. It was the first punt return for a touchdown in the Cotton Bowl since 1961.
Turning point II: Tyler Wilson's fumble in the final minute of the half. It gave Kansas State some hope heading into the locker room in what was otherwise an ugly, ugly first half. Kansas State took advantage, hooking up for a 3-yard touchdown pass on a pretty rollout throwback play to Andre McDonald to cut the lead to 10 heading into halftime.
Best player (s) in the half: Arkansas defensive end Jake Bequette and Joe Adams. Sometimes, all it takes is two big plays. The first half's been pretty ugly, but Bequette forced a sack/fumble in the K-State red zone, and Adams swung the game on the aforementioned punt return. Adams has almost broken a couple, and Bequette's been consistently disruptive, too.
What Kansas State needs to do: Collin Klein, for whatever reason, has been tentative to take off in the pocket, and he's already thrown too many passes without a ton of effectiveness. He's relied on his arm perhaps a bit too much tonight when he's had opportunities to run. That has to change, especially in a half when they're likely to be dropping back to throw quite a bit.
What Arkansas needs to do: Keep testing K-State's defense deep. It hit Wright for a 45-yard score and nearly had Joe Adams for one from 70-plus yards. The Hogs opened a window for K-State with the late fumble, and the Wildcats climbed through it. Arkansas can slam the door shut with a couple big plays in the second half.
The Wildcats' play all season has been marked by precision and a lack of mistakes. The result was 10 wins. In the first half, they've been penalized four times and have turned the ball over. They're getting beat in the special teams, too, giving up a huge play on a punt return.
Arkansas has to be feeling good about that half, with the exception of a late fumble.
K-State also had a scary situation late in the half. Defensive end Meshak Williams took a helmet-to-helmet hit from teammate Emmanuel Lamur and had to be carted off. Medical personnel removed his face mask and were stabilizing his neck, according to sideline reports.
Time for some further analysis.
Turning point: Joe Adams' punt return. He's the most electrifying player in this game by a long shot, and he showed why with a shifty 51-yard punt return. His fourth return for a touchdown in 2011, and fifth in his career, tied the single-season SEC record and totally turned the first half. Arkansas' offense hasn't been great, but Adams got the crowd going. Yeah, he got some help from a block in the back (or two), but nobody was catching him on that play. It was the first punt return for a touchdown in the Cotton Bowl since 1961.
Turning point II: Tyler Wilson's fumble in the final minute of the half. It gave Kansas State some hope heading into the locker room in what was otherwise an ugly, ugly first half. Kansas State took advantage, hooking up for a 3-yard touchdown pass on a pretty rollout throwback play to Andre McDonald to cut the lead to 10 heading into halftime.
Best player (s) in the half: Arkansas defensive end Jake Bequette and Joe Adams. Sometimes, all it takes is two big plays. The first half's been pretty ugly, but Bequette forced a sack/fumble in the K-State red zone, and Adams swung the game on the aforementioned punt return. Adams has almost broken a couple, and Bequette's been consistently disruptive, too.
What Kansas State needs to do: Collin Klein, for whatever reason, has been tentative to take off in the pocket, and he's already thrown too many passes without a ton of effectiveness. He's relied on his arm perhaps a bit too much tonight when he's had opportunities to run. That has to change, especially in a half when they're likely to be dropping back to throw quite a bit.
What Arkansas needs to do: Keep testing K-State's defense deep. It hit Wright for a 45-yard score and nearly had Joe Adams for one from 70-plus yards. The Hogs opened a window for K-State with the late fumble, and the Wildcats climbed through it. Arkansas can slam the door shut with a couple big plays in the second half.
ESPN.com's All-Underrated Big 12 team
December, 13, 2011
12/13/11
4:30
PM ET
By
David Ubben | ESPN.com
We unveiled our All-Big 12 team last week with lots of talent.
Time for a new take, with a little help from the Big Ten Blog: The All-Underrated team.
My criteria: The conference's most underrated player at each position. This is, of course, subjective. This isn't for the second-best player at each position. It's for the player who doesn't get enough respect. The only rule: He can't be on my All-Big 12 team.
Here goes:
OFFENSE
QB: James Franklin, Missouri
RB: Christine Michael, Texas A&M
RB: John Hubert, Kansas State
FB: Braden Wilson, Kansas State
WR: Ryan Swope, Texas A&M
WR: Tevin Reese, Baylor
WR: Josh Cooper, Oklahoma State
TE: James Hanna, Oklahoma
OL: Clyde Aufner, Kansas State
OL: Philip Blake, Baylor
OL: Austin Wuebbels, Missouri
OL: David Snow, Texas
OL: Lonnie Edwards, Texas Tech
DEFENSE
DE: Toben Opurum, Kansas
DT: Nicolas Jean-Baptiste, Baylor
DE: Meshak Williams, Kansas State
DE: Jackson Jeffcoat, Texas
LB: Steven Johnson, Kansas
LB: Elliot Coffey, Baylor
LB: Alex Elkins, Oklahoma State
CB: David Garrett, Kansas State
CB: Leonard Johnson, Iowa State
S: Terrance Bullitt, Texas Tech
S: Daytawion Lowe, Oklahoma State
SPECIALISTS
P: Trey Barrow, Missouri
PK: Michael Hunnicutt, Oklahoma
PR/KR: Jarvis West, Iowa State
Coach: Paul Rhoads, Iowa State
Time for a new take, with a little help from the Big Ten Blog: The All-Underrated team.
My criteria: The conference's most underrated player at each position. This is, of course, subjective. This isn't for the second-best player at each position. It's for the player who doesn't get enough respect. The only rule: He can't be on my All-Big 12 team.
Here goes:
OFFENSE
QB: James Franklin, Missouri
RB: Christine Michael, Texas A&M
RB: John Hubert, Kansas State
FB: Braden Wilson, Kansas State
WR: Ryan Swope, Texas A&M
WR: Tevin Reese, Baylor
WR: Josh Cooper, Oklahoma State
TE: James Hanna, Oklahoma
OL: Clyde Aufner, Kansas State
OL: Philip Blake, Baylor
OL: Austin Wuebbels, Missouri
OL: David Snow, Texas
OL: Lonnie Edwards, Texas Tech
DEFENSE
DE: Toben Opurum, Kansas
DT: Nicolas Jean-Baptiste, Baylor
DE: Meshak Williams, Kansas State
DE: Jackson Jeffcoat, Texas
LB: Steven Johnson, Kansas
LB: Elliot Coffey, Baylor
LB: Alex Elkins, Oklahoma State
CB: David Garrett, Kansas State
CB: Leonard Johnson, Iowa State
S: Terrance Bullitt, Texas Tech
S: Daytawion Lowe, Oklahoma State
SPECIALISTS
P: Trey Barrow, Missouri
PK: Michael Hunnicutt, Oklahoma
PR/KR: Jarvis West, Iowa State
Coach: Paul Rhoads, Iowa State
Midseason top 25 list: Honorable mention
October, 21, 2011
10/21/11
1:15
PM ET
By
David Ubben | ESPN.com
This list was really, really difficult to put together. Much more so than the pre or postseason lists. That sort of surprised me. Lots and lots of talented players just missed my list.
Once again, here was the criteria I examined in putting together the list.
And here's the full list.
In no particular order, here are other players I considered, but couldn't put on the list. This league is deep in the standings, and it's no different on the field. Don't be surprised to see any of these guys on the postseason list.
Ronnell Lewis, DE, Oklahoma: Lewis is seventh in the Big 12 with 3.5 sacks, and has 37 tackles, with two pass breakups and a forced fumble.
Nigel Malone, CB, Kansas State: No cornerbacks made my top 25, but Malone is among a handful of DBs that were close. He leads the Big 12 with four interceptions, and has 27 tackles with four pass breakups.
Brodrick Brown, CB, Oklahoma State: Brown is right there, too. He's made 21 tackles, broken up seven passes, intercepted three passes and made two tackles for loss.
Meshak Williams, DE, Kansas State: Williams is a breakout player this year, sitting at fourth in the Big 12 with four sacks. He also has 5.5 tackles for loss, 13 tackles and a forced fumble.
Kenny Stills, WR, Oklahoma: Stills has missed two games this season, but he's made 27 catches for 330 yards and five touchdowns. That puts him at seventh in the Big 12 in TD catches.
A.J. Klein, LB, Iowa State: Klein is a worthy sidekick to top 10 player Jake Knott in Ames. Klein's made 45 tackles (7th in the Big 12) and has four tackles for loss with an interception for a touchdown and a sack.
James Franklin, QB, Missouri: Franklin has gotten it done as a sophomore first-year starter in a league filled with great QB play. He's thrown for 1,488 yards, 10 touchdowns and four interceptions, while also running for 390 yards (12th in the Big 12) and seven scores.
Cyrus Gray, RB, Texas A&M: Gray's been good, but his teammate Christine Michael has just been a bit better. He's ninth in the Big 12 with 521 yards and seven touchdowns. He's also caught 13 passes for 112 yards and a score.
Jamell Fleming, CB, Oklahoma: Fleming entered the season as the league's best corner, and he's still in the conversation. He's made 30 tackles, returned a fumble for a touchdown, has broken up three passes and forced a fumble. He also has two tackles for loss.
Jamie Blatnick, DE, Oklahoma State: Blatnick has been a force up front, ranking third in the Big 12 with five sacks, 7.5 tackles for loss, 27 tackles and an interception. He also has a fumble recovery and a pass breakup.
Demontre Hurst, CB, Oklahoma: Hurst and Fleming form the Big 12's best cornerback duo, and Hurst has made 23 tackles, one tackle for loss and returned his lone interception 55 yards for a touchdown. He's also forced a fumble and broken up three passes.
Joseph Randle, RB, Oklahoma State: Randle has 552 rushing yards and is second in the Big 12 with nine touchdowns, filling in admirably for the departed Kendall Hunter.
Carrington Byndom, CB, Texas: Byndom's stepped in as a first-year starter and been a huge boon to Texas' defense, making 28 tackles and intercepting a pass. He helped shut down Justin Blackmon last week, and has broken up nine passes with 3.5 tackles for loss.
Brad Madison, DE, Missouri: Madison has 3.5 sacks and an interception, with 18 tackles and 6.5 tackles for loss. He's also forced a fumble.
Darius Reynolds, WR, Iowa State: Reynolds made a few huge catches in the Cyclones' early 3-0 start, including an eventual game-winner against UConn, and has 522 yards and 28 catches to rank fifth in the Big 12. He also has six touchdown catches.
Jordan Voelker, DE, Kansas State: Voelker and Williams have been a huge surprise at defensive end, making four sacks to tie for fourth in the Big 12, with five tackles for loss, 18 tackles and a pass broken up.
Kelechi Osemele, OT, Iowa State: Osemele has a bright future in the NFL. ISU's offense has rushed for a Big 12-low 903 yards and given up 15 sacks, but Osemele has still been solid, albeit banged up.
Terrance Ganaway, RB, Baylor: Ganaway may finish with 1,000 yards after big games against Texas Tech and TCU. He's sixth in the Big 12 with 561 yards and seven touchdowns.
Once again, here was the criteria I examined in putting together the list.
And here's the full list.
In no particular order, here are other players I considered, but couldn't put on the list. This league is deep in the standings, and it's no different on the field. Don't be surprised to see any of these guys on the postseason list.
Ronnell Lewis, DE, Oklahoma: Lewis is seventh in the Big 12 with 3.5 sacks, and has 37 tackles, with two pass breakups and a forced fumble.
Nigel Malone, CB, Kansas State: No cornerbacks made my top 25, but Malone is among a handful of DBs that were close. He leads the Big 12 with four interceptions, and has 27 tackles with four pass breakups.
Brodrick Brown, CB, Oklahoma State: Brown is right there, too. He's made 21 tackles, broken up seven passes, intercepted three passes and made two tackles for loss.
Meshak Williams, DE, Kansas State: Williams is a breakout player this year, sitting at fourth in the Big 12 with four sacks. He also has 5.5 tackles for loss, 13 tackles and a forced fumble.
Kenny Stills, WR, Oklahoma: Stills has missed two games this season, but he's made 27 catches for 330 yards and five touchdowns. That puts him at seventh in the Big 12 in TD catches.
A.J. Klein, LB, Iowa State: Klein is a worthy sidekick to top 10 player Jake Knott in Ames. Klein's made 45 tackles (7th in the Big 12) and has four tackles for loss with an interception for a touchdown and a sack.
James Franklin, QB, Missouri: Franklin has gotten it done as a sophomore first-year starter in a league filled with great QB play. He's thrown for 1,488 yards, 10 touchdowns and four interceptions, while also running for 390 yards (12th in the Big 12) and seven scores.
Cyrus Gray, RB, Texas A&M: Gray's been good, but his teammate Christine Michael has just been a bit better. He's ninth in the Big 12 with 521 yards and seven touchdowns. He's also caught 13 passes for 112 yards and a score.
Jamell Fleming, CB, Oklahoma: Fleming entered the season as the league's best corner, and he's still in the conversation. He's made 30 tackles, returned a fumble for a touchdown, has broken up three passes and forced a fumble. He also has two tackles for loss.
Jamie Blatnick, DE, Oklahoma State: Blatnick has been a force up front, ranking third in the Big 12 with five sacks, 7.5 tackles for loss, 27 tackles and an interception. He also has a fumble recovery and a pass breakup.
Demontre Hurst, CB, Oklahoma: Hurst and Fleming form the Big 12's best cornerback duo, and Hurst has made 23 tackles, one tackle for loss and returned his lone interception 55 yards for a touchdown. He's also forced a fumble and broken up three passes.
Joseph Randle, RB, Oklahoma State: Randle has 552 rushing yards and is second in the Big 12 with nine touchdowns, filling in admirably for the departed Kendall Hunter.
Carrington Byndom, CB, Texas: Byndom's stepped in as a first-year starter and been a huge boon to Texas' defense, making 28 tackles and intercepting a pass. He helped shut down Justin Blackmon last week, and has broken up nine passes with 3.5 tackles for loss.
Brad Madison, DE, Missouri: Madison has 3.5 sacks and an interception, with 18 tackles and 6.5 tackles for loss. He's also forced a fumble.
Darius Reynolds, WR, Iowa State: Reynolds made a few huge catches in the Cyclones' early 3-0 start, including an eventual game-winner against UConn, and has 522 yards and 28 catches to rank fifth in the Big 12. He also has six touchdown catches.
Jordan Voelker, DE, Kansas State: Voelker and Williams have been a huge surprise at defensive end, making four sacks to tie for fourth in the Big 12, with five tackles for loss, 18 tackles and a pass broken up.
Kelechi Osemele, OT, Iowa State: Osemele has a bright future in the NFL. ISU's offense has rushed for a Big 12-low 903 yards and given up 15 sacks, but Osemele has still been solid, albeit banged up.
Terrance Ganaway, RB, Baylor: Ganaway may finish with 1,000 yards after big games against Texas Tech and TCU. He's sixth in the Big 12 with 561 yards and seven touchdowns.
You're so money and you don't even know it ... but you do!
RISING
Texas Tech's turnover margin: The Red Raiders won the turnover battle 4-1 in their 45-34 comeback win over Kansas. That moved them to third nationally in turnover margin, forcing eight more turnovers (11) than they've committed (3). The three turnovers are third-fewest nationally, behind only Northwestern and Stanford. Clean football being played out in West Texas.
FALLING
Kansas' defense: The numbers are ugly for the Jayhawks after four games and a 2-2 record. Kansas' offense is much better this season, but it hardly has a chance when the team ranks dead last nationally in scoring defense (44.25 points), 119th in total defense (545 yards/game), 118th in rush defense (252.5 yards/game) and 108th in pass defense (292.5 yards/game). That's not going to work well in the Big 12. Or any league, for that matter.
RISING
Kendall Wright: The Bears receiver is outperforming his more highly-touted competition across the Big 12, like Justin Blackmon, Ryan Broyles and Jeff Fuller. All three receivers have admittedly played tougher competition, but his numbers have risen every season, and he's on pace for a career season that's paralleling his quarterback, Robert Griffin III. Wright is tied for the national lead with seven touchdown catches, leads the Big 12, fourth nationally, with 621 receiving yards, and he leads the Big 12, sixth nationally, with 40 receptions.
FALLING
Texas A&M's pass defense: The Aggies have had two rough weeks, helping Brandon Weeden set a school record with 438 yards and following it up by letting Arkansas' Tyler Wilson break Ryan Mallett's record by more than 100 yards with 510 passing yards last week. Those two performances have the Aggies in dead last nationally in pass defense, giving up an average of 336 yards a game. Kansas is the next-worst Big 12 team, with its 292 yards a game average. Making matters more difficult, the Aggies haven't forced a turnover in 15 quarters, dating back to the first quarter against SMU in its opener. A dash of good news: A&M is fifth nationally in rush defense (63 yards/game).
RISING
Kansas State's defensive line: The Wildcats had one of the league's worst defensive lines a season ago, but this season, have two players in the Big 12's top five in sacks. Meshak Williams and Jordan Voelker both have three sacks and linebacker Arthur Brown also has two to rank eighth in the league. Last season, Prizell Brown was the only Wildcat in the Big 12's top 30 in sacks, with five on the season. The Wildcats already have 11 sacks after notching just 20 all of last season.
FALLING
Iowa State's turnover margin: The Cyclones have had turnover problems all season, but overcame them to reach 3-0 for the first time since 2005. Not anymore. Texas came to town and made ISU pay, winning the turnover battle 3-0 in a 37-14 win. Iowa State has now turned the ball over 13 times in four games, which ranks 108th nationally. They've only forced five all season, though, and rank T-116th last nationally in turnover margin, at -8. Only Notre Dame (-9) has been worse.
RISING
Texas Tech's turnover margin: The Red Raiders won the turnover battle 4-1 in their 45-34 comeback win over Kansas. That moved them to third nationally in turnover margin, forcing eight more turnovers (11) than they've committed (3). The three turnovers are third-fewest nationally, behind only Northwestern and Stanford. Clean football being played out in West Texas.
FALLING
Kansas' defense: The numbers are ugly for the Jayhawks after four games and a 2-2 record. Kansas' offense is much better this season, but it hardly has a chance when the team ranks dead last nationally in scoring defense (44.25 points), 119th in total defense (545 yards/game), 118th in rush defense (252.5 yards/game) and 108th in pass defense (292.5 yards/game). That's not going to work well in the Big 12. Or any league, for that matter.
RISING
Kendall Wright: The Bears receiver is outperforming his more highly-touted competition across the Big 12, like Justin Blackmon, Ryan Broyles and Jeff Fuller. All three receivers have admittedly played tougher competition, but his numbers have risen every season, and he's on pace for a career season that's paralleling his quarterback, Robert Griffin III. Wright is tied for the national lead with seven touchdown catches, leads the Big 12, fourth nationally, with 621 receiving yards, and he leads the Big 12, sixth nationally, with 40 receptions.
FALLING
Texas A&M's pass defense: The Aggies have had two rough weeks, helping Brandon Weeden set a school record with 438 yards and following it up by letting Arkansas' Tyler Wilson break Ryan Mallett's record by more than 100 yards with 510 passing yards last week. Those two performances have the Aggies in dead last nationally in pass defense, giving up an average of 336 yards a game. Kansas is the next-worst Big 12 team, with its 292 yards a game average. Making matters more difficult, the Aggies haven't forced a turnover in 15 quarters, dating back to the first quarter against SMU in its opener. A dash of good news: A&M is fifth nationally in rush defense (63 yards/game).
RISING
Kansas State's defensive line: The Wildcats had one of the league's worst defensive lines a season ago, but this season, have two players in the Big 12's top five in sacks. Meshak Williams and Jordan Voelker both have three sacks and linebacker Arthur Brown also has two to rank eighth in the league. Last season, Prizell Brown was the only Wildcat in the Big 12's top 30 in sacks, with five on the season. The Wildcats already have 11 sacks after notching just 20 all of last season.
FALLING
Iowa State's turnover margin: The Cyclones have had turnover problems all season, but overcame them to reach 3-0 for the first time since 2005. Not anymore. Texas came to town and made ISU pay, winning the turnover battle 3-0 in a 37-14 win. Iowa State has now turned the ball over 13 times in four games, which ranks 108th nationally. They've only forced five all season, though, and rank T-116th last nationally in turnover margin, at -8. Only Notre Dame (-9) has been worse.
Big 12 position rankings: Defensive lines
July, 21, 2011
7/21/11
10:30
AM ET
By
David Ubben | ESPN.com
We've tackled every other spot, and now we'll wrap up out Big 12 position rankings with the defensive lines across the Big 12.
Here are the rest of the position rankings.
Now that we've finished ranking the complete units, we'll start ranking the top 10 at each position very soon leading into the 2011 season.
This is a decent position for the Big 12 this season, and the top half of the league should feel pretty good about their group. There aren't many studs in this group, but there are a whole lot of solid players.
AP Photo/Pat SullivanMissouri has one of the Big 12's best pass rushers in Brad Madison. 1. Missouri -- Missouri has the Big 12's best returning pass rusher and a Defensive Player of the Year contender in Brad Madison, but its depth is what lands it on top of the list. Jacquies Smith is solid at the opposite defensive end spot, and Michael Sam and Kony Ealy provide great depth at DE. Dominique Hamilton's absence last season hurt after breaking his ankle against Oklahoma, but he's back, alongside Terrell Resonno. Sheldon Richardson, who may be transferring from junior college, is a wildcard that could be anywhere between a complete game changer, irrelevant or absent.
2. Oklahoma -- Oklahoma's defensive tackles are somewhat suspect, but the defensive end combo of Ronnell Lewis (provided he is eligible come fall camp) and Frank Alexander is on par with the best in the Big 12. Both were preseason All-Big 12 selections, but Jamarkus McFarland needs to make good on his potential. Stacy McGee and Casey Walker should both get time at the other tackle spot.
3. Texas -- Defensive end Jackson Jeffcoat is loaded with potential as the nation's former No. 1 recruit. He had a big impact early last season before being slowed by an ankle injury. Alex Okafor moved outside from defensive tackle just before spring and had five sacks in the spring game. Inside, Kheeston Randall is an All-Big 12 favorite, but Ashton Dorsey had a strong spring and could help out with Reggie Wilson opposite Randall.
4. Texas A&M -- The Aggies have one of the best linemen in the league in Tony Jerod-Eddie, but Jonathan Mathis, Eddie Brown Jr. and Ben Bass have a lot to prove around him after the loss of Lucas Patterson, who was outstanding in 2010.
5. Texas Tech -- Sam Fehoko has moved to defensive end from middle linebacker, and should provide some good speed to the front line. Scott Smith looked on his way to an All-Big 12 campaign last season, but was suspended for the remainder of the season by coach Tommy Tuberville and has yet to be officially reinstated. For now, Dartwan Bush and Aundrey Barr will help out at defensive end, outside of Donald Langley, Kerry Hyder and Pearlie Graves. The Red Raiders did snatch a big pickup from departed UNC signee Delvon Simmons, a defensive tackle that could have an impact immediately.
6. Oklahoma State -- Defensive line is the biggest weak spot for the Cowboys, who have a decent set of ends in Jamie Blatnick and former heralded recruit Richetti Jones, but an even bigger question mark at defensive tackle where Christian Littlehead and Nigel Nicholas enter fall camp as starters.
7. Kansas -- Top rusher turned defensive end Toben Opurum came on strong late last season and should be one of the most exciting Jayhawks to watch in 2011, but the rest of the line leaves a bit to be desired. Keba Agostino has the other starting spot at defensive end ahead of Pat Lewandowski, who had a great spring. Patrick Dorsey and John Williams enter fall camp as starters at defensive tackles.
8. Kansas State -- K-State recruited this position hard in its 2011 class. For now, defensive end Brandon Harold will try to bounce back from a disappointing 2010 after a promising 2009. Lance Dunbar and Taylor Martinez think this group is ranked too high, but Meshak Williams could start opposite Harold, while Ray Kibble and Raphael Guidry should be the tackles inside.
9. Baylor -- Tevin Elliott was limited this spring because of offseason shoulder surgery, and Terrance Lloyd exited spring practice as the starter, but I'd expect Elliott to regain the spot by the time the season arrives. Phil Taylor, a first-round pick, is a big loss, but Gary Mason Jr. will try to fill his spot next to Nicolas Jean-Baptiste.
10. Iowa State -- Having a pair of linebackers combine for 241 tackles is a good and bad thing. They've got outstanding linebackers, but the defensive line was the Big 12's worst last season for a unit that ranked 10th in rush defense and had just 11 sacks. That was the fewest sacks in the Big 12 and more than just three teams in all of college football. The good news is all four starters return, but for now, this is where the Cyclones start. Stephen Ruempolhamer has some promise, but Cleyon Laing, Jake McDonough and ends Patrick Neal and Roosevelt Maggitt have a lot to prove. Jacob Lattimer ran into offseason trouble, but re-appeared atop the depth chart released by the Cyclones on Wednesday.
Here are the rest of the position rankings.
Now that we've finished ranking the complete units, we'll start ranking the top 10 at each position very soon leading into the 2011 season.
This is a decent position for the Big 12 this season, and the top half of the league should feel pretty good about their group. There aren't many studs in this group, but there are a whole lot of solid players.
AP Photo/Pat SullivanMissouri has one of the Big 12's best pass rushers in Brad Madison. 2. Oklahoma -- Oklahoma's defensive tackles are somewhat suspect, but the defensive end combo of Ronnell Lewis (provided he is eligible come fall camp) and Frank Alexander is on par with the best in the Big 12. Both were preseason All-Big 12 selections, but Jamarkus McFarland needs to make good on his potential. Stacy McGee and Casey Walker should both get time at the other tackle spot.
3. Texas -- Defensive end Jackson Jeffcoat is loaded with potential as the nation's former No. 1 recruit. He had a big impact early last season before being slowed by an ankle injury. Alex Okafor moved outside from defensive tackle just before spring and had five sacks in the spring game. Inside, Kheeston Randall is an All-Big 12 favorite, but Ashton Dorsey had a strong spring and could help out with Reggie Wilson opposite Randall.
4. Texas A&M -- The Aggies have one of the best linemen in the league in Tony Jerod-Eddie, but Jonathan Mathis, Eddie Brown Jr. and Ben Bass have a lot to prove around him after the loss of Lucas Patterson, who was outstanding in 2010.
5. Texas Tech -- Sam Fehoko has moved to defensive end from middle linebacker, and should provide some good speed to the front line. Scott Smith looked on his way to an All-Big 12 campaign last season, but was suspended for the remainder of the season by coach Tommy Tuberville and has yet to be officially reinstated. For now, Dartwan Bush and Aundrey Barr will help out at defensive end, outside of Donald Langley, Kerry Hyder and Pearlie Graves. The Red Raiders did snatch a big pickup from departed UNC signee Delvon Simmons, a defensive tackle that could have an impact immediately.
6. Oklahoma State -- Defensive line is the biggest weak spot for the Cowboys, who have a decent set of ends in Jamie Blatnick and former heralded recruit Richetti Jones, but an even bigger question mark at defensive tackle where Christian Littlehead and Nigel Nicholas enter fall camp as starters.
7. Kansas -- Top rusher turned defensive end Toben Opurum came on strong late last season and should be one of the most exciting Jayhawks to watch in 2011, but the rest of the line leaves a bit to be desired. Keba Agostino has the other starting spot at defensive end ahead of Pat Lewandowski, who had a great spring. Patrick Dorsey and John Williams enter fall camp as starters at defensive tackles.
8. Kansas State -- K-State recruited this position hard in its 2011 class. For now, defensive end Brandon Harold will try to bounce back from a disappointing 2010 after a promising 2009. Lance Dunbar and Taylor Martinez think this group is ranked too high, but Meshak Williams could start opposite Harold, while Ray Kibble and Raphael Guidry should be the tackles inside.
9. Baylor -- Tevin Elliott was limited this spring because of offseason shoulder surgery, and Terrance Lloyd exited spring practice as the starter, but I'd expect Elliott to regain the spot by the time the season arrives. Phil Taylor, a first-round pick, is a big loss, but Gary Mason Jr. will try to fill his spot next to Nicolas Jean-Baptiste.
10. Iowa State -- Having a pair of linebackers combine for 241 tackles is a good and bad thing. They've got outstanding linebackers, but the defensive line was the Big 12's worst last season for a unit that ranked 10th in rush defense and had just 11 sacks. That was the fewest sacks in the Big 12 and more than just three teams in all of college football. The good news is all four starters return, but for now, this is where the Cyclones start. Stephen Ruempolhamer has some promise, but Cleyon Laing, Jake McDonough and ends Patrick Neal and Roosevelt Maggitt have a lot to prove. Jacob Lattimer ran into offseason trouble, but re-appeared atop the depth chart released by the Cyclones on Wednesday.
Nebraska, Oklahoma get jump on recruiting
February, 9, 2010
2/09/10
11:12
AM ET
By Tim Griffin | ESPN.com
Veteran talent analyst JC Shurburtt of ESPN Recruiting has listed the top 11 programs with the fastest start on their 2011 recruiting classes. Both Nebraska and Oklahoma made the unranked list.
Nebraska has already received commitments from three players, including two selections on the ESPNU 150 watch list. Both of Oklahoma's early commitments made the ESPNU 150 watch list.
The Cornhuskers already have received verbal commitments from two of the nation's top linemen, continuing a tradition that is a bedrock of the Nebraska program. Tyler Moore, a 6-foot-6, 270-pounder from Countryside High School in Clearwater, Fla., is joined by Ryne Reeves, a 6-foot-3, 287-pound center from Crete, Neb. Along with those two on the ESPNU 150 watch list with quarterback Jamal Turner of Sam Houston High School in Arlington, Texas.
And the Sooners have garnered two on the 150 list, including wide receiver Kameel Jackson who is Turner's major receiving target at Sam Houston High School. He is joined by quarterback Kendal Thompson of Southmoore High School in Moore, Okla.
Here's a quick look at what other schools in the conference have gotten an early start (Note: * indicates an ESPNU 150 watch list player):
Nebraska has already received commitments from three players, including two selections on the ESPNU 150 watch list. Both of Oklahoma's early commitments made the ESPNU 150 watch list.
The Cornhuskers already have received verbal commitments from two of the nation's top linemen, continuing a tradition that is a bedrock of the Nebraska program. Tyler Moore, a 6-foot-6, 270-pounder from Countryside High School in Clearwater, Fla., is joined by Ryne Reeves, a 6-foot-3, 287-pound center from Crete, Neb. Along with those two on the ESPNU 150 watch list with quarterback Jamal Turner of Sam Houston High School in Arlington, Texas.
And the Sooners have garnered two on the 150 list, including wide receiver Kameel Jackson who is Turner's major receiving target at Sam Houston High School. He is joined by quarterback Kendal Thompson of Southmoore High School in Moore, Okla.
Here's a quick look at what other schools in the conference have gotten an early start (Note: * indicates an ESPNU 150 watch list player):
- Baylor: None.
- Colorado: C Shaun Simon (Hutchinson Community College)
- Iowa State: None.
- Kansas: None.
- Kansas State: OT Cody Whitehair (Abilene, Kan.), DT Olukayode Akinmoladun (Independence Community College), WR Marcus Kennard (Butler County Community College), QB Angelo Pease (Hutchinson Community College), DE Meshak Williams (Hutchinson, Kan.)
- Missouri: *QB Corbin Berkstresser (Lee Summit, Mo.); WR Wesley Leftwich (Hickman, Mo.); ATH Anthony Pierson (Gateway, Mo.), DT Sheldon Richardson (College of the Sequoias).
- Nebraska: *OT Tyler Moore (Clearwater, Fla.), *C Ryne Reeves (Crete, Neb.), QB Jamal Turner (Arlington, Texas).
- Oklahoma: *WR Kameel Jackson (Arlington, Texas), *QB Kendal Thompson (Moore, Okla.)
- Oklahoma State: *QB J.W. Walsh (Denton, Texas), T Travis Cross (Plano, Texas), S Isaac Maselera (Glenpool, Okla.)
- Texas: None.
- Texas A&M: *T Joseph Creek (Seguin, Texas).
- Texas Tech: *WR Javares McRoy (Lakeland, Fla.)
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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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