Arizona Wildcats Recruiting Round-Up

Recent Commits

·         No Recent Commits

Trending on the Trail

Deatrich Wise, DE, 6-5/220 (NR): although he won’t admit it, Arizona has several factors working into his favor

Polo Manukainiu, DE, 6-6/250 (NR): while getting a ton of hype across the nation, Manukainiu list Utah and Arizona in his top four.

Julian Brooks, WR, 6-2/185 (**): Arizona’s business program is apparently a huge draw for Brooks.

Top Commits for 2012

·         Taylor McNamara, TE, 6-5/235 (***): blocking ability is probably McNamara’s biggest concern, but in all reality he was targeted for his soft hands and size. 

·         Beau Boyster, C, 6-4/275 (***): despite worries about bad weight, he is touted for his excellent footwork and good pass protection.

·         Josh Kern, QB, 6-5/185 (NR): his decent field vision and mobility make up for his lack of speed and arm strength.

·         Nathan Sudfeld, WR, 6-5/215 (NR): he can recognize coverage packages pretty well and has an accurate arm, but arm strength could be an issue. 


***Check out how the rest of the Pac-12 is doing on the recruiting trail here.  

Power Ranking the Pac-12's Head Coaches

This year’s list of Pac-12 head coaches is a very similar read to last year’s.

While the names may seem the same, the overall presence and outlying atmosphere created by these coaches has certainly changed.

The Pac-10 faithful will be introduced to three new head coaches this season, two experiencing their first year at helm.  How these coaches react to this backyard dog fight called “Pac-12 Conference Play” should be quite interesting.

Let's take a look at where each coach lands in my Pac-12's Coaches Preseason Power Rankings.    

Pac-12 Breakfast Links: 06.16.2011

*Ex-Michigan quarterback Tate Forcier has three Pac-12 teams (Arizona State, Washington State and Oregon) left on his list. I’m not sure if this head-case is really needed on either team.  [Star Advertiser]

*Speaking of ex-quarterbacks, Colorado’s former QB Cody Hawkins was named to USA’s football roster.  That brings me to the question: What the hell is the USA Football team? [Mile High Buzz]

*Chip Kelly suspended Cliff Harris indefinitely for his reckless driving incident.  I wonder what his definition of “indefinitely” is?  Probably 11 weeks. [ESPN]

*Let the Internet’s debating begin about Cliff Harris’ fate.  It’s not too late for him to enter NFL’s supplemental draft.  [SB Nation Bay Area]

*According to his dad, Stanford’s Head Coach David Shaw’s nickname is “Dr. Blitz”.  The newly appointed coach definitely has the talent at linebacker this year to live up to this fictitious doctorate. [Go Stanford]

*With several Pac-12 games scheduled for Friday nights, the illusion that this night of the week is just for prep football has been shattered.  Although it sort-of ends this “tradition”, it’s definitely a step in the right direction for the conference [Oregonian]   

*Speaking of moving forward, Larry Scott is addressing the lingering issues facing the NCAA and its players by suggesting the players get more money from the Pac-12’s new deal.  Spectacular idea! [Denver Post]

Pac-12 Breakfast Links: 06.15.2011

*Thanks for making me look like a liar in yesterday’s breakfast links, Juron Criner.  He was actually the reason why I DVR’d the episode.  [Tucson Citizen]

*Speaking of disappointments, Criner and Nick Foles got slaughtered in a few early draft projections.  It’s time to prove that helmet-haired, Mel Kiper wrong. [Tucson Citizen]

*Lane Kiffin tells WNOX 100.3 that he went for two so much last year because USC couldn’t get into a bowl .  That seems a little reckless considering the many gamblers counting on those points. [WNOX] (Kiffin's comments @35:30)  

*Speaking of gambling, Oregon is predicted to open as three point favorites against LSU.  If Cliff Harris is suspended, I’m definitely taking the Tigers.  [Gaming Today]

*Can’t seem to get off the gambling topic today.  Andrew Luck is the oddsmakers’ favorite to hoist the Heisman this season.  Definitely won’t argue with that.  [USA Today]

*There is nothing more unpredictable yet extremely fun to watch than a wild buffalo running at full speed on a field with innocent bystanders.  How is this even a contest?  Vote for Colorado’s Ralphie! [ESPN]

*Hmmm…back to the sportsbook to close it.  Oregon’s odds to win the 2012 National Championship are 13/1…hardly the favorites, but not a bad bet.  [SBR Forum]

Pac-12 Breakfast Links: 06.14.2011

 Imagine Harris in a car and the Tennessee player as a cop

*Juron Criner, Matt Barkley, and Darron Thomas will be on ESPN’s College Football Live this afternoon.  Don’t miss their takes on the upcoming season.  [Tucson Citzen]  

*I understand that Ducks just need to fly.  However, let’s try to keep that in the air or on the field, Cliff. [KVAL.com]

*Hmm, speaking of Cliff Harris’s free ride, it appears it was exactly that…free.  Call in the NCAA dogs, because something is getting fishy in Oregon [KEZI.com]          

*People love college football for the breakout stories.  Every year there is at least one per team.  Here are Arizona’s front runners [GoAZCats.com]

*Arizona’s President Robert Shelton was called on to help remove the stains of the Fiesta Bowl's recent past.  Let’s hope the Dr. Shelton has better bed side manners then the previous president.  [OC Register]

*Former Utah football player Jason Kaufusi is suing a medical technology company for implanting a “pain pump” in his shoulder.  With a name like “pain pump”, it almost seems like it was doing its job. [Deseret News]

*CUBuffs has put together a Pac-12 starter kit for the patience-impaired.  Unfortunately, you’ll have to wait for the countdown to start tomorrow.  [CUBuffs.com]

Pac-12 Recruiting Roundup

Kevon Seymour could take his talents to Southern Cal

Welcome to the soap opera that sports fans like to call College Football Recruiting! 

For those that are not accustomed to the inner ways of college football recruiting, the easiest way to describe it would be teenage drama with a football twist. 

It is a process where senior high school football players are courted by the fairest hands of all the land like they are the next Peyton Manning.  These 18-year olds are then forced to choose a four-year path that could potentially make or break their football careers.

Think of it as picking a date to the prom, but then also having to marry her for the next four years. While there is always divorce (transferring schools), it comes with its price.

Since we are dealing with sometimes erratic teenagers, a school that they like one week may become fuax pas the next.  And, even after some players do make a commitment to one school, they have the audacity to change their minds before February rolls around.

It’s a fun roller coaster ride, but it can be hard to keep track of.  This round-up will do its best to give you the cliff notes version of this week’s Pac-12 recruiting rumblings.    

Pac-12 Football Daily Breakfast Links: 06.07.2011

*This isn’t the championship you are looking for! USC's 2004 BCS championship is officially vacated by the NCAA. Now all they have to do is erase the memories of everyone that actually witnessed the event. [Inside USC]

*The Nike camp made its way through Eugene over the weekend, where several Pacific Coast recruits continued to gain traction amongst Pac-12 schools. Although Lake Owego’s Alex Matthew is still waiting for an official from any school, his phone should start to light up more this week. [Rivals]

*According to the gossip train, Texas running back Terrance Crowder really, really likes Colorado. But will this is this relationship be more “Zach and Kelly” or “Screech and Lisa”? [Buff Stampede]

                                                                         

*Arizona saddled four-star tight end Taylor McNamara, making him the Wildcats third commit for 2012. Several Pac-12 schools solicited offers, but McNamara apparently coveted early playing time over everything else.  Not a bad a choice considering some of the schools recent products at that position. [ESPN]

*Former Cal quarterback Kevin Riley's pro career has hit the skids.  If Canada Football doesn't want you, there aren’t many places that will. [California Golden Blogs]

Daily Breakfast Links: 05.25.2011

*Four Pac-12 teams made Andy Staple's post-spring rankings.  The Utes continue to gain believers, breaking through at No. 25 [SI.com]


*Speaking of pre-season rankings, a Stanford writer says, begone rankings! I don't agree. The pre-season rankings and other spring/summer nonsense is the only way I can get through the College Football offseason. [Stanford Daily] 

*Utah fans are pumped for next season. 98% of their season ticket holders renewed their seat for 2011. Freaking amazing!  [Desert News]

*It's not a party without a bong rip and a bump. Just ask Washington State's linebacker Louis Bland. He was arrested on Tuesday after a noise complaint led to cops finding weed and a "white substance." I miss college. [Scout]

*Four-star tight end recruit Christo Kourtzidis recently received an offer from Arizona to add to his lengthly list of suitors. Although the Wildcats are not currently on the top of his list, his intrigue with successful Arizona TEs could turn the tide. [Rivals]

Daily Breakfast Links: 05.24.2011

*Like a nerdy teenager right before prom, UCLA is desperately hoping that they finally “Get Some!” in 2011. But, come one, what are the Bruins' real chances of making any serious waves this season.  These OC boys seem to have faith. [OC Register]

*Two weeks ago, Colorado secured one of the top 2012 quarterback recruits in Shane Dillon. The potential that Dillon brings to the Buffaloes’ future in the Pac-12 is quite interesting.  His high football coach seems to love him, but then again, don’t they all. [Rivals]

*Man Down! Arizona’s junior devensive tackle Willie Mobley suffered an ACL tear playing basketball at the student rec center.  Strangely enough, Mobley is fourth player to go down with an ACL injury for the Wildcats this spring.  [Tucson Citizen]

*A Stanford blogger tells a Cal blogger the “inside scoop” about the Cardinal for 2011.  Seems incestuous.  [California Golden Blogs]

*Ever wanted to see and hear what a QB does when he is in the pocket at game speed?  Then you have to check this out. At Washington’s spring game, Keith Price and Nate Montana wore cameras on their helmets.  It’s pretty sick! [Seattle PI]

Arizona Wildcats Football: Does Arizona Have a Chance At the Pac-12 South Title?

Although Arizona Wildcats football has taken second stage to their intrastate rivals this offseason, critics could be overlooking the possibility that the Sun Devils are not the only dark horse coming out of the Grand Canyon State.

Entering last season, several experts pick the Wildcats as a possible dark horse conference contender because of the offensive potential brought to the roster by Nick Foles.  With the Wildcats returning most of their offense weapons and their defense returning seven solid starters, it seems like Arizona should be getting a bit more press. 

Ranking the Pac-12’s Top Defensive Backs

Whether it is making a touchdown saving tackle or swatting down a threatening pass downfield, defensive backs are the lifeline for any defense.

The corps of DBs in the Pac-12 is definitely no exception, and this group of ball hawks are more than capable of changing the makeup of any game in a heartbeat.

Let’s take a peek at which defensive backs rank at the top of the Pac-12 for next season. 

Daily Breakfast Links: 05.18.2011

*First off, Congratulations to the Pac-10 inductees recently named to the College Football Hall of Fame.  Bill Enyart (Oregon State 1966-68) was a little before my time, but Rob Waldrop and Arizona’s Desert Swarm defense was some of my first memories of college football. Hats off to the entire 2011 class. [Orlando Sentinel]

*UCLA continues to dig into the junior college ranks to band-aid the holes on its offensive line.  Citrus College’s Albert Cid will be the latest to make the leap (as long as he passes his classes).  With the uncertainty still swirling around the starting quarterback role, the eventual winner will need these fresh faces to provide as much time as possible back there.  [Los Angeles Times]

*Although several offers from Pac-12 schools are on the table for three-star OL recruit Matt Cochrane, he seems to be waiting to get one from Stanford.  In a year where top tier OL are a plenty, the Cardinal apparently want to make sure they know what they are getting before they solidify a deal. [Scout]

*It seems like more and more people like Arizona State to either take the South Division or make a trip to the Pac-12 Championship Game by default (Thanks USC).  With more hype comes more television coverage (and scrutiny).  Arizona State already has several nationally televised games, but, there could be a few more broadcasting possibilities depending on how their season pans out. [House of Sparky] 

*USC is the favorite in my mind to win the South Division, but they won’t be able to do it looking like they did last season.  There are several must do’s on Lane Kiffin’s list in order to have a successful season.  But will he be able to check them off before the start of the season? [Bleacher Report]

Ranking the Pac-12’s Top Running Backs

Although the Pac-12 is looked upon by many as a “pass happy” conference, the talent laced at running back out west cannot be denied.

The nation’s No. 1 rusher from last season was a member of the Pac-10 and that fleet-footed runner returns to dazzle us with another spectacular season.

While LaMichael James will undoubtedly fall as No.1 on most people’s running backs list, there are several other great names in the Pac-12 that could steal the spotlight. 

Let’s take a look at the Top Running Backs in the Pac-12.

Ranking the Top Linebackers of the Conference

With the season creeping closer following each turning day, it is never too early to start ranking the players from the most intriguing conference in college football (at least to me!). 

Linebackers kick off my series of “The Pac-12’s Top 10 by position”.

Watching these linebackers patrol the line like a hungry velociraptors can send shivers directly to your soul.  It’s shame we have to wait so long to see these beast in action.

Let’s check out the list.   

Breakfast Links: 05.09.2011

*The spring has come and gone leaving several great nuggets for Pac-12 Football fans to chew on over the next few months.  Bud Withers does a great job summarizing the injuries and emergences for every team.  [Seattle Times]

* Trey Griffey, Ken Griffey Jr.’s son, is being courted by Oregon, UCLA, and Washington State. Standing large at 6’2”, 185 pound, Trey has the potential to be an extremely dangerous wide-out. Although his talent is still a bit raw, it is fun to imagine a Griffey making dazzling plays on the gridiron. [Lost Letterman, You Tube]

*Chip Kelly gave an inspirational speech to U.S. Soldiers after Oregon’s spring game.  The group singing of the Ducks fight song was a nice touch, too.  [Oregonian]

*The Pac-12’s 12-year, $3 billion rights deal with ESPN and FOX is eye-popping, but at the same time well deserving.  Pac-12 Football deserves some serious respect and this exponential increase in national exposure is definitely a huge step in the right direction. [Multi-Channel News]

*Arizona and Oklahoma State moved their game from Saturday, Sept. 10 to Thursday, Sept. 8.  Watching quarterbacks Nick Foles and Brandon Weeden command the authority of the skies in prime time should be a great way to kick of the second week of the season. [Arizona Daily Star]

Pac-12 Football Breakfast Links: 05.08.2011

*Arizona lands three-star recruit offensive lineman Beau Boyster.  Nothing screams exciting like an OL signing. [Arizona Daily Star, You Tube]

*According to a “source that has no authority to talk on the subject matter”(whatever that means), highly sought-after tight end Morrell Presely and fifth-year senior cornerback Courtney Viney will transfer out of UCLA.  Not sure if people need authority to talk about players that never see the field.  [Los Angeles Times]

*College Basketball play-by-play announcer Gus Johnson is expected to join FOX to call Pac-12 Football games.  Although he lost out to Brad Nessler for the NFL Network job, he should be a shoe-in for this position.  [Examiner.com]

*Four-star prospect linebacker Michael Barton commits to Cal, adding to a pile of East Bay recruits in the Bears' arsenal.  The De La Salle standout also received offers from Arizona State, Colorado, LSU, Oregon State, SMU, UCLA, Washington and Washington State. [Contra Costa Times, You Tube]

*It is no surprise that UCLA is having troubles figuring out which quarterback to go with next season.  It IS a surprise OC Mike Johnson still hopes that he is going to find “consistency, decision-making, and leadership” in one of his three candidates.  If these skills haven’t reared its head yet, he could be looking for a long time. [OC Register] 

Pac-12 Football: Arizona Wildcats Spring Game Report Card

Spring Game Type: 60-play Scrimmage

Final Score: N/A

Passing ruled the day at Arizona’s spring game.  However, that was the one area that critics were the least concerned with. 

Offense:

Nick Foles, Matt Scott, and Bryson Beirne each saw a heavy dosage of action in Arizona’s spring game, combing for 39 passes in the 60-play scrimmage.

Each player threw for over 100 yards and at least one touchdown, connecting with 13 different receivers on the day.  Beirne tacked on an additional touchdown pass before it was all said and done, leading the team with two. 

The running game was practically non-existent, though.  Sophomore Daniel Jenkins carried the ball eight times but only gained 35 yards.  Foles had the second most rushing yards with 20.

Grade: B+

Defense:

Arizona’s defense only stopped five drives and converted just one turnover during Mike Stoop’s 60-play scrimmage.

Safety Marquis Flowers led the charge for the Wildcats, jarring four tackles and breaking up two passes.

Defensive tackle Sione Tuihalamaka also exerted some dominance on the field, pulling in four tackles and notching a sack.

Overall, Arizona’s defense didn’t play that awful, but, allowing four touchdowns proves that they still need a ton of improvement before opening day.

Grade: C+  

Pac-12 Football Breakfast Links: 05.06.2011

*Oregon linebacker Kiko Alonso is suspended for a second straight season after his arrest on burglary and trespassing chargers. Perhaps Chip Kelly should cut his losses. This recruit from Los Gatos isn't going pan out as he expected. [Seattle Times]

*Speaking of the Seattle Times, Bob Condotta reminded us that the Pac-12 Bowl schedule pretty much blows.   Thanks Bob for ruining my Friday.  [Seattle Times]

*Colorado Coach Jon Embree talks about DE Forrest West's departure without really saying anything at all about what actually happened.  Great job coach.  [Denver Post]

* Steven Threet's decision to retire after a gnarly concussion last year could not have been easy.  He was a promising player and it just plain sucks that we wont get a chance to see him next year. [AZCentral.com]

*With its first real conference schedule staring them square in the face,  Utah's yearly rivalry game with BYU seems to be losing a bit of its luster.  Wait, did it have that much to begin with?  [Salt Lake Tribune]

Pac-12 College Football: Quarterback Spring Report Card

The success of most teams lie solely in the hands of the player taking the snaps.

While an excellent defense can certainly take teams to the glory land, the quarterback is the one player than can completely change the makeup of a team. 

The Pac-10 produced several outstanding quarterbacks during its existence and things should not be any different with the addition of Colorado and Utah.

With Andrew Luck returning for another season and several other gunslingers looking to make their mark in 2011, the quarterbacks of the Pac-12 will be as dangerous as ever.

Let’s hand out grades to the possible starting quarterback of the Pac-12.    

Andrew Luck, Stanford

Stanford fans should send the Carolina Panthers a Thank You note for helping Andrew Luck to decide to stay another year. 

Luck’s success last season was fun to watch and it is great that college football fans get to ride the experience one more time.

As a red shirt sophomore, Luck dazzled the nation.  Not only did he lead the Pac-10 in yards (3,332), completion percentage (70.7), and touchdowns (32), but he helped Stanford to its largest single season win total (12) and marched the Cardinal to its first ever BCS bowl victory.    

Although Stanford losses a chunk of his stout offensive line, Luck’s unbelievable talent should shine the brightest in the Pac-12.

Grade: A+

Darron Thomas, Oregon

Darron Thomas dazzled the Pac-10 last season, ranking 11th in the nation with 30 passing touchdowns and coming just shy of a National Championship.

Thomas’s explosive dual-threat ability makes him a dangerous weapon again in 2011.  Add LeMichael James to the equation and Thomas is primed for another outstanding season.

Grade: A

Matt Barkley, USC
Matt Barkley showed extreme improvement in his sophomore campaign, ranking third in the Pac-10 in passing touchdown (26), yards per game (232.6), and completion percentage (62.6).

USC’s offense will be fun to watch in 2011 with Barkley hounding the calls to his troops.  His talent is quickly falling in line with the many other successful USC quarterbacks. 

Grade: A

Nick Foles, Arizona

Despite his horrendous performance in the Alamo Bowl, Nick Foles should flash several signs of brilliance throughout his senior season. 

Foles seems to be on track early. He sparkled in Arizona’s spring game, connecting on 11 of 16 passes for 133 yards and a touchdown. 

Grade: B+

Brock Osweiler, Arizona State

Steven Threet’s unexpected departure from the sport due to post-concussion symptoms opened the gates wide open for Brock Osweiler to retake the starting job in 2011.

Oswieler didn’t waste any time getting the fans back on his side either.  In Arizona State’s spring game, he hammered home five touchdowns and collected 237 yards on 22 attempts.

If Arizona State wants to be a serious South Division title contender this season, they will need Oswieler to become one of the top passers in a conference with a gaggle of golden arms.

Grade: B+

Zach Maynard, California

With the departure of Kevin Riley, the Bears’ list of possible successors is widely uncertain. 

While the competition between Zach Maynard, Allen Bridgford, and Brock Mansion will stay tight throughout the summer, the money of most people around the Bay Area is on Maynard. 

Maynard has had an impressive spring, and with a new quarterback coach guiding him, this could be a surprising weapon in Jeff Tedford's shed.

Grade:  B-

Jordan Wynn, Utah

Shoulder surgery has sidelined Jordon Wynn this offseason.  After a stagnant spring game without him, it appears that Utah definitely needs Wynn to make a full recovery in order to stay competitive in the much deeper Pac-12.

Wynn threw 17 touchdowns and 2,334 yards in the WAC last year.  With the increase of talented defenses slated for this season, it might be difficult for him to improve on these numbers. 

Grade: B-

Keith Price, Washington

Although Keith Price will have to fight off the son of a quarterback legend to be Washington’s starting quarterback, he definitely made a convincing case of his worthiness in this spring.  In the annual game, he aired out three passing touchdowns and used his mobility to collect another one on the ground.  

Nick Montana also showed off signs of promise in the game, making sure this stays a competition until the end.

However, Steve Sarkisian contends that the quarterback position will be a group effort between the two to start off the season.   

Grade: B-

Tyler Hansen, Colorado

Tyler Hansen dazzled onlookers in Colorado’s spring game, looking very fluent in Jon Embree’s new offense.

This was Colorado’s first glimpse of the senior since he was knocked out for the season in late October, and he certainly provided fans with a glimmer of hope. 

Unless something dramatic occurs from now until August, expect to see Hansen calling signals at least to start off the season.     

Grade: C+

Jeff Tuel, Washington State

In an off-season that Coach Paul Wulff is calling the best he has seen since he took over in 2008, Jeff Tuel will be the key to truly changing the tide for Washington State.

Tuel looked sharp in the Cougar’s spring game, connecting on 11 of 16 passes with a touchdown.  His continued consistency this spring has given him a decent edge over junior Marshall Lobbestael, making him a favorite to start on opening day.

Last year, Tuel ranked fourth in the Pac-10 in passing yards per game (231.7), but threw the second most interceptions (12).

Grade: C+

Ryan Katz, Oregon State

Wrist surgery in January is keeping Ryan Katz from seeing that much field time this spring.

Katz experienced a turbulent season in 2010 and things will not get any easier this year with Jacquizz Rodgers making the leap to the pros. 

While Oregon State searches for an identity, Katz will be an easy scapegoat if things go awry fast.

Grade: C

Kevin Prince, UCLA

UCLA’s problems at quarterback have yet to be answered and expect this trend to continue through the fall.

As the incumbent, Kevin Prince has a slight edge in the starting quarterback race. However, Rick Neuheisel insists that he has not been impressed by any of the candidates and that the competition is wide open.

Although Prince is still recovering from a knee injury, expect him to rise to the top by the time opening day comes around.    

Grade: C-

One Outrageous Prediction for Each Pac-12 Football Team

In the off season, it is always fun to take a far look ahead and try to make predictions.  Even though the makeup of some teams might completely change from now until the spring, let’s make one outlandish predictions about every team in the Pac-12.

Arizona: Nick Foles and Juron Criner will combine for more touchdown passes than any other quarterback/wide receiver.

Arizona State: The Sun Devils manage to survive South Division play with only one loss, take the first division title.

California: Because of the competition nipping at his heels, Brock Mansion finally transforms into the talented quarterback that scouts saw in him five years ago.

 

Colorado:  Running back Rodney Stewart makes a name for himself and the Buffaloes, rushes for 1,500 yards and 15 touchdowns.

Oregon: The Ducks lose three or more games in 2011 because their defense struggles to hold the leads provided by LaMichael James and Darron Thomas.

Oregon State: The Beavers will post back-to-back losing season for the first time since 1997-1998.

Stanford: Corner Back Delano Howell will lead the conference in interceptions and linebacker Shayne Skov will win Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year.

UCLA:  Mere minutes after losing to USC in the final game of the 2011 season, Rick Neuheisel will get fired walking to his car in the parking lot.

USC:  The Trojans’ defense finally “gets” what they are supposed to do when they are on the field, helps USC to a 10-win season.

Utah: The Utes will win five or less Pac-12 conference games in 2011.

Washington: Running back Chris Polk blazes the trail for the Huskies the entire year, finishes the season as the Pac-12’s leading rusher.

Washington State:  The Cougars win two Conference games this season…hey, it could happen!