2012 College Football Predictions: Top 5 Impact Freshmen

2012 College Football Predictions – Top 5 Impact Freshmen: Recruiting in college football has become a full-time job for coaching staffs and the media. A few strong recruits can change the course of a football program for years, and every school wants to land the five-star, blue-chip prospects that can make an immediate impact. Last year, it was Clemson receiver Sammy Watkins stealing the spotlight as a freshman and helping the Tigers reach a BCS bowl while being name a First-Team All-American. Here is a look at five of the top freshman that will have a big impact for their teams in the upcoming season.

2012 College Football Predictions: Top 5 Impact Freshmen

1.      Wes Lunt, Quarterback, Oklahoma State

Last year, the Cowboys went 12-1, but starting QB Brandon Weeden and the team’s top receiver Justin Blackman both made the jump to the NFL. After winning the job in the spring, Lunt will have the tough task of replacing Weeden at the helm of the high-powered Oklahoma State offense without the aid of a weapon like Blackman to throw to. That being, the freshman signal caller is still in a great position to succeed because of Mike Gundy’s pass-happy offense. Lunt will have the chance to throw the ball early and often, and he should pile up big numbers in the process. He has the physical tools, and Gundy’s offensive system can make just about any QB look really good.

2.      Stefon Diggs, Wide Receiver, Maryland

He is a jack-of-all-trades offensive weapon, and Diggs should be touching the ball a lot this year for the Terrapins. The five-star recruit has plenty of speed and agility, and while his primary position is wide receiver, Diggs will likely see time in the backfield and in the return game. Comparing him to Clemson’s Sammy Watkins is probably a stretch, but he could have a very similar impact on the stat sheet. After all, the ACC isn’t exactly known for its defense either, and Diggs should pile up plenty of all-purpose yards and touchdowns in his freshman campaign.

3.      D.J. Humphries, Offensive Tackle, Florida

Coach Will Muschamp has emphasized a switch to a more conventional offense that centers on a power running game, and Humphries is a perfect fit for the system. The top-rated offensive lineman in his recruiting was also the second-rated player overall. He will start immediately for the Gators, and while he needs to add some bulk, his size and athleticism will allow him to thrive in the meantime. Florida deployed an arsenal of running backs last season, and whoever is touting the ball this year will likely be running through some holes created by Humphries.

4.      Dorial Green-Beckham, Wide Receiver, Missouri

Green-Beckham was the top-rated recruit in the entire country, and his potential is sky high. The 6-6 receiver has the combination of speed and athleticism that draws comparison to some of the greats. His physical gifts alone will allow him to make an impact for the Tigers’ offense, especially in the red zone with his height and leaping ability. On the downside, Missouri is joining the SEC this season, meaning Green-Beckham will be adjusting to the collegiate level against some of the best defenses in the country. Even for a player as talented as Green-Beckham, there will likely be a bit of a learning curve in the SEC.

5.      Mario Edwards, Defensive Tackle, Florida State

It’s not often that defensive tackles make a huge first impression, but Edwards will be an exception. He was the third-rated recruit and the top DT in his class, and he joins a Florida State defensive line that is among the best in the country. Playing alongside three returning starters, including sack artist Brandon Jenkins, should allow Edwards to thrive. At 6-4, 275 pounds, he certainly has the body to play at any level. With opposing offensive lines being forced to focus on the three FSU veterans defensive lineman, Edwards will see single coverage almost every snap. He will be introducing himself to quarterbacks and running backs all year.

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