JimBob
02-07-2008, 07:24 AM
OSU recruiting breakdown
By BILL HAISTEN World Sports Writer
2/7/2008
The Class
Within the Cowboys' class of 27 signed recruits are six players who were rated by Rivals.com as being four-star national prospects. A five-star rating is the highest. Frustrated by years of defensive problems, Cowboy coaches seek immediate improvement by signing five defenders from the junior college ranks.
Offense
The Cowboys signed 13 offensive players and one specialist (Quinn Sharp, rated the the nation's No. 1 kicker prospect). One of the 13 offensive players is running back Beau Johnson, a junior college transfer. The 210-pound Johnson is expected to make a strong bid for the starting tailback position. OSU signed three running backs, three tight ends, three wide receivers and four offensive linemen.
The needs: Sophomore-to-be Kendall Hunter was a tremendously productive backup last season, but entering the spring-practice period, junior college transfer Beau Johnson could be the favorite in the competition for the starting role. Incoming freshman Kye Staley was a dominant playmaking QB for the Class 5A-champion Guthrie Bluejays, but he is expected to play tailback at O-State.
Headliner: Beau Johnson. MVP of juco national title game.
Sleeper: Jamal Mosley. The Memphis, Tenn., tight end had been leaning toward Ole Miss, so OSU coaches were thrilled to get his signature.
Immediate impact: Beau Johnson. Georgian rushed for 1,756 yards last season at Butler County (Kan.) Community College.
Defense
Among the 13 defenders signed by the Cowboys are four who garnered four-star ratings by Rivals.com -- defensive backs Victor Johnson, Markelle Martin and Maurice Gray (a junior college transfer), along with tackle Swanson Miller (also a juco product). OSU signed six defensive backs, two tackles, three ends and two linebackers. Cowboy coaches would like to have signed a can't-miss linebacker prospect, but they like the potential of Donald Booker and Alfred Dupree.
The needs: Last season, OSU was 101st nationally in total defense. When the Cowboys begin spring practice on March 3, every starting job is up for grabs. Junior college transfers Swanson Miller and Chris Donaldson (especially the highly regarded Miller) are expected to contribute immediately. In the secondary, newcomers like Victor Johnson and Markelle Martin should contend right away for playing time.
Headliner: Victor Johnson. Chose OSU over Oklahoma, Nebraska and Miami (Fla.).
Sleeper: Donald Booker. OSU needs better tackling, and the 225-pound Booker was a juco All-American.
Immediate impact: Swanson Miller. OSU coaches hope the 330-pound Miller can plug the middle.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OKLAHOMA STATE CLASS OF 2008
b RR=Rivals.com rating
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Isaiah Anderson, WR, Wichita Falls (Texas) H.S. Ht: 6-0. Wt: 175. RR: 2
Also a track athlete who has been timed at 10.34 seconds in the 100 meters.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*Lucien Antoine, DB, Fort Scott (Kan.) C.C. Ht: 6-2. Wt: 210. RR: 3
A hard-hitting, versatile recruit who can play either safety position.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cooper Bassett, TE, Tuttle. Ht: 6-5. Wt: 235. RR: 3
In November, switched commitment from Kansas State to OSU.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Brodrick Brown, DB, Houston Westfield H.S. Ht: 5-8. Wt: 165. RR: 3
Rated as one of the top 10 cornerback prospects in the state of Texas.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Justin Blackmon, WR, Ardmore (Plainview H.S.). Ht: 6-2. Wt: 190. RR: 3
As a prep senior, Blackmon had 57 catches, 1,532 yards, 14 TDs.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Donald Booker, LB, Navarro (Texas) College. Ht: 6-0. Wt: 225. RR: 3
A first-team junior college All-American who led the nation in total tackles.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DeJuan Davis, OL, Crowley, Texas. Ht: 6-4. Wt: 295. RR: 2
A Class 4A All-State selection who did not allow a sack last season.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*Chris Donaldson, DT, Coffeyville (Kan.) C.C. Ht: 6-3. Wt: 280. RR: 3
Will have three seasons of eligibility at Oklahoma State.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Alfred DuPree, LB, Dallas Skyline H.S. Ht: 6-2. Wt: 210. RR: 3
Recruited by LSU, Arkansas, Alabama, Florida, Nebraska and others.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jeremy Gray, DE, Sherman, Texas. Ht: 6-6. Wt: 235. RR: 3
Chose Cowboys over Purdue, Ole Miss, Texas A&M, Baylor and Kansas.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*Maurice Gray, DB, Butler County (Kan.) C.C. Ht: 5-10. Wt: 180. RR: 4
Chose OSU over Kansas, Iowa State. High school state track champ in Georgia.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Patrick Hoog, OL, Castroville, Texas (Medina Valley H.S.) Ht: 6-3 Wt: 293 RR: 3
Won't turn 18 until June, but already bench-presses 430 pounds.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Justin Horton, TE, Henderson, Texas. Ht: 6-4. Wt: 220. RR: 3
Reportedly has above-average speed for a tight end -- a 4.55 timing in the 40.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*Beau Johnson, RB, Butler County (Kan.) C.C. Ht: 5-11. Wt: 210. RR: 4
Rushed for 1,756 yards last season and was MVP of juco national title game.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Victor Johnson, DB, Waco (Texas) H.S. Ht: 6-1. Wt: 175. RR: 4
The No. 1-rated safety prospect in the state of Texas.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*Markelle Martin, DB, Wichita Falls, Texas (Rider H.S.) Ht: 6-3. Wt: 180. RR: 4
Committed first to Texas A&M, and then to OU.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*Swanson Miller, DT, Butler County (Kan.) C.C. Ht: 6-4. Wt: 330. RR: 4
Getting Miller's commitment was considered a major triumph for Cowboy staff.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Travis Miller, RB, Marlin, Texas. Ht: 5-10. Wt: 180. RR: 2
Played running back and receiver in high school; expects to be RB at OSU.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*Andrew Mitchell, OL, Snow College (Utah). Ht: 6-5. Wt: 300. RR: 3
After visiting Arizona and Arizona State, Choctaw native committed to Cowboys.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jamal Mosley, TE, Memphis, Tenn. Ht: 6-4. Wt: 230. RR: 2
Received offer from Michigan State and Tennessee among others.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nigel Nicholas, DE, Rossville, Ga. (Ridgeland H.S.). Ht: 6-4. Wt: 253. RR: 3
Originally recruited as a tight end, but prefers to play defensive end.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*Jeremiah Price, DE, Jones County (Miss.) C.C. Ht: 6-4. Wt: 245. RR: 3
After recording 10 sacks last season, chose Oklahoma State over South Florida.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Adrian Richards, WR, Mesquite (Texas) H.S. Ht: 6-3. Wt: 188. RR: 3
Was offered scholarships by Minnesota, Wisconsin, Boise State and Oregon.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Quinn Sharp, K, Arlington, Texas (Mansfield Summit) Ht: 6-1 Wt: 185 RR: 3
Rated by Rivals.com as the No. 1 kicking prospect in the nation.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kye Staley, RB, Guthrie. Ht: 6-0. Wt: 215. RR: 4
As QB at Guthrie last season, Staley topped 2,000-yard mark in total offense.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lane Taylor, OL, Arlington (Texas) Martin H.S. Ht: 6-2. Wt: 295. RR: 2
Committed to OSU seven months ago, choosing Cowboys over Kansas.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Johnny Thomas, DB, Texas City, Texas. Ht: 6-0. Wt: 180. RR: 3
Recruited also by Ole Miss, Oregon State, TCU and Arkansas.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Already enrolled at OSU and can participate in spring practice.
By BILL HAISTEN World Sports Writer
2/7/2008
The Class
Within the Cowboys' class of 27 signed recruits are six players who were rated by Rivals.com as being four-star national prospects. A five-star rating is the highest. Frustrated by years of defensive problems, Cowboy coaches seek immediate improvement by signing five defenders from the junior college ranks.
Offense
The Cowboys signed 13 offensive players and one specialist (Quinn Sharp, rated the the nation's No. 1 kicker prospect). One of the 13 offensive players is running back Beau Johnson, a junior college transfer. The 210-pound Johnson is expected to make a strong bid for the starting tailback position. OSU signed three running backs, three tight ends, three wide receivers and four offensive linemen.
The needs: Sophomore-to-be Kendall Hunter was a tremendously productive backup last season, but entering the spring-practice period, junior college transfer Beau Johnson could be the favorite in the competition for the starting role. Incoming freshman Kye Staley was a dominant playmaking QB for the Class 5A-champion Guthrie Bluejays, but he is expected to play tailback at O-State.
Headliner: Beau Johnson. MVP of juco national title game.
Sleeper: Jamal Mosley. The Memphis, Tenn., tight end had been leaning toward Ole Miss, so OSU coaches were thrilled to get his signature.
Immediate impact: Beau Johnson. Georgian rushed for 1,756 yards last season at Butler County (Kan.) Community College.
Defense
Among the 13 defenders signed by the Cowboys are four who garnered four-star ratings by Rivals.com -- defensive backs Victor Johnson, Markelle Martin and Maurice Gray (a junior college transfer), along with tackle Swanson Miller (also a juco product). OSU signed six defensive backs, two tackles, three ends and two linebackers. Cowboy coaches would like to have signed a can't-miss linebacker prospect, but they like the potential of Donald Booker and Alfred Dupree.
The needs: Last season, OSU was 101st nationally in total defense. When the Cowboys begin spring practice on March 3, every starting job is up for grabs. Junior college transfers Swanson Miller and Chris Donaldson (especially the highly regarded Miller) are expected to contribute immediately. In the secondary, newcomers like Victor Johnson and Markelle Martin should contend right away for playing time.
Headliner: Victor Johnson. Chose OSU over Oklahoma, Nebraska and Miami (Fla.).
Sleeper: Donald Booker. OSU needs better tackling, and the 225-pound Booker was a juco All-American.
Immediate impact: Swanson Miller. OSU coaches hope the 330-pound Miller can plug the middle.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OKLAHOMA STATE CLASS OF 2008
b RR=Rivals.com rating
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Isaiah Anderson, WR, Wichita Falls (Texas) H.S. Ht: 6-0. Wt: 175. RR: 2
Also a track athlete who has been timed at 10.34 seconds in the 100 meters.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*Lucien Antoine, DB, Fort Scott (Kan.) C.C. Ht: 6-2. Wt: 210. RR: 3
A hard-hitting, versatile recruit who can play either safety position.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cooper Bassett, TE, Tuttle. Ht: 6-5. Wt: 235. RR: 3
In November, switched commitment from Kansas State to OSU.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Brodrick Brown, DB, Houston Westfield H.S. Ht: 5-8. Wt: 165. RR: 3
Rated as one of the top 10 cornerback prospects in the state of Texas.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Justin Blackmon, WR, Ardmore (Plainview H.S.). Ht: 6-2. Wt: 190. RR: 3
As a prep senior, Blackmon had 57 catches, 1,532 yards, 14 TDs.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Donald Booker, LB, Navarro (Texas) College. Ht: 6-0. Wt: 225. RR: 3
A first-team junior college All-American who led the nation in total tackles.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DeJuan Davis, OL, Crowley, Texas. Ht: 6-4. Wt: 295. RR: 2
A Class 4A All-State selection who did not allow a sack last season.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*Chris Donaldson, DT, Coffeyville (Kan.) C.C. Ht: 6-3. Wt: 280. RR: 3
Will have three seasons of eligibility at Oklahoma State.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Alfred DuPree, LB, Dallas Skyline H.S. Ht: 6-2. Wt: 210. RR: 3
Recruited by LSU, Arkansas, Alabama, Florida, Nebraska and others.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jeremy Gray, DE, Sherman, Texas. Ht: 6-6. Wt: 235. RR: 3
Chose Cowboys over Purdue, Ole Miss, Texas A&M, Baylor and Kansas.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*Maurice Gray, DB, Butler County (Kan.) C.C. Ht: 5-10. Wt: 180. RR: 4
Chose OSU over Kansas, Iowa State. High school state track champ in Georgia.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Patrick Hoog, OL, Castroville, Texas (Medina Valley H.S.) Ht: 6-3 Wt: 293 RR: 3
Won't turn 18 until June, but already bench-presses 430 pounds.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Justin Horton, TE, Henderson, Texas. Ht: 6-4. Wt: 220. RR: 3
Reportedly has above-average speed for a tight end -- a 4.55 timing in the 40.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*Beau Johnson, RB, Butler County (Kan.) C.C. Ht: 5-11. Wt: 210. RR: 4
Rushed for 1,756 yards last season and was MVP of juco national title game.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Victor Johnson, DB, Waco (Texas) H.S. Ht: 6-1. Wt: 175. RR: 4
The No. 1-rated safety prospect in the state of Texas.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*Markelle Martin, DB, Wichita Falls, Texas (Rider H.S.) Ht: 6-3. Wt: 180. RR: 4
Committed first to Texas A&M, and then to OU.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*Swanson Miller, DT, Butler County (Kan.) C.C. Ht: 6-4. Wt: 330. RR: 4
Getting Miller's commitment was considered a major triumph for Cowboy staff.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Travis Miller, RB, Marlin, Texas. Ht: 5-10. Wt: 180. RR: 2
Played running back and receiver in high school; expects to be RB at OSU.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*Andrew Mitchell, OL, Snow College (Utah). Ht: 6-5. Wt: 300. RR: 3
After visiting Arizona and Arizona State, Choctaw native committed to Cowboys.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jamal Mosley, TE, Memphis, Tenn. Ht: 6-4. Wt: 230. RR: 2
Received offer from Michigan State and Tennessee among others.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nigel Nicholas, DE, Rossville, Ga. (Ridgeland H.S.). Ht: 6-4. Wt: 253. RR: 3
Originally recruited as a tight end, but prefers to play defensive end.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*Jeremiah Price, DE, Jones County (Miss.) C.C. Ht: 6-4. Wt: 245. RR: 3
After recording 10 sacks last season, chose Oklahoma State over South Florida.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Adrian Richards, WR, Mesquite (Texas) H.S. Ht: 6-3. Wt: 188. RR: 3
Was offered scholarships by Minnesota, Wisconsin, Boise State and Oregon.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Quinn Sharp, K, Arlington, Texas (Mansfield Summit) Ht: 6-1 Wt: 185 RR: 3
Rated by Rivals.com as the No. 1 kicking prospect in the nation.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kye Staley, RB, Guthrie. Ht: 6-0. Wt: 215. RR: 4
As QB at Guthrie last season, Staley topped 2,000-yard mark in total offense.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lane Taylor, OL, Arlington (Texas) Martin H.S. Ht: 6-2. Wt: 295. RR: 2
Committed to OSU seven months ago, choosing Cowboys over Kansas.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Johnny Thomas, DB, Texas City, Texas. Ht: 6-0. Wt: 180. RR: 3
Recruited also by Ole Miss, Oregon State, TCU and Arkansas.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Already enrolled at OSU and can participate in spring practice.