Some very interesting picks in my opinion. Not that I'm hoping any of these guys are busts, but there are a few guys I think should be taken off that list and here is why:
Luke Anderson - Yes, he has good speed and is a hard hitter, but he is constantly out of position. Mr. Anderson seems to lack the ability to quickly read what the offense is doing, which is a key to being a good safety. Many of his big hits would have been pass break ups or interceptions had he read the play a step sooner. If he sees the field, I have a feeling he is going to drive fans absolutely nuts with his propensity to bite on the play fake (remind anyone of last season?) I do think he could be a big help on our special teams though.
Rafe Kiely - I like Mr Kiely's size and his upper body strength. From that standpoint, he is way beyond many offensive line recruits. However, his downfall will be his lack of flexibility in his lower body. His tendacy to become flat footed and stiffness will eat him alive in the MWC. One of the biggest differences most offensive lineman note between HS and college football is the speed of the defensive lineman they face. Unfortunately for Mr. Kiely, speed is his weakness. I get the feeling he is going to struggle maintaining a block in both the run and passing games...even if they put him in the interior line.
Kody Sutton - While Mr. Sutton has tremendous lower body strength for his size and the ability to break big plays, I don't think he has the ability to be a featured back in the FBS. His biggest glaring weakness is his height...he is lucky if he is 5'6. While a very select few RB's excel despite that lack of height, the vast majority of them struggle because of poor field vision. Being able to see the location of defenders and recognizing the correct cuts to make is often the difference between a great RB and a fair one. That is something I think Mr. Sutton is going to struggle with. I do think he could be effective out in open space, so a couple touches on screen plays or fly sweeps wouldn't be a bad idea.
OK, the pessimist in me is gone. Here are a few guys not included on that list that I think can make a big impact this year for the Pokes:
Eddie Yarbrough - I was extremely disappointed to see the coaching staff is moving Mr. Yarbrough to defensive end. He has the skills to start at either strongside OLB or MLB this season as a true freshman. That being said, he is such a good football player that I fully expect him to excel at the DE position as well. Don't be suprised if Mr. Yarbrough leads the team in sacks and tackles for a loss next season. He has a knack for getting to the ball in the backfield and finishing the play. I think this will go down as one of the biggest recruiting coups in UW history.
Korey Jones - Mr. Jones has flown a bit under the radar and I'm not sure why. His film is very, very impressive. He is everything you want in an OLB. With Ghaali Muhammad being moved to a different position, look for Mr. Jones to earn the nod at the weakside OLB position and don't be surprised if he earns all-conference honors in his first year on the field for the Pokes. This guy is the real deal.
Mark Nzeocha - If you thought Oliver Schober was a good pick-up, wait until you see this guy. If this guy were a HS player in the United State's I would guarantee you that he would have multiple BCS offers. Luckily for us, most BCS schools aren't looking for players in Germany. With the departure of both starting safeties, I would almost be willing to bet my house that Nzeocha earns one of the starting spots. Frankly, I think he will be an upgrade over both Prosinski and Gary. Fans are going to love this guy.