Over the past few seasons around this time of year, I find myself looking back at the classes we've signed. I find it very interesting to see who's still on the team, who's been a pleasant surprise (to fans at least) and who's not lived up to their recruiting service rating. Here's a sample (from Scout) of folks who would still be on the team, or are still on the team.
Gone and Mostly Forgotten
2006 - Steven Singleton (OL, 4*), Matt Allen (OL, 4*), Derrick Odom (LB, 4*), Charles Deas (DT, 4*)
2007 - Jarvis Jones (OT, 4*), Phelon Jones (CB, 4*), Sidell Corley (DE, 4*), Ernest McCoy (OT, 4*), Jordan Corbin (TE, 4*)
2008 - Tim Molton (WR, 3*) I think he's the only one not still on the roster...
Rags to Riches
2007 - Josh Dworaczyk (OT, 3*, rated #78)
2008 - Jordan Jefferson ? (QB, 3*, rated #18) Jury still out...
Ooops...
2006 - Jai Eugene (CB, 5*, rated #1), Al Woods (DT, 5*, rated #2), K. Williams (RB, 5*, rated #3)
2007 - Mitch Joseph (TE, 4*, rated #5), Stefoin Francois (S, 4*, rated #8)
I guess the point is this: you never know. Classes full of 4* recruits can implode in just a couple of years (2006, 2007). Classes full of mid-pack talent can turn out fantastic college football players (Highsmith, Beckwith, Hester, Lafell). Some 5* players are what they appear to be (Dorsey, Peterson). Some 5* players are either not going to pan out (K. Williams, Al Woods) or are complete busts (R. Perrilloux, X. Carter).
I have learned to love recruiting. But it is most definitely art, not science. And it's much more fun when you keep the past in perspective.
FWIW.
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