Ranking the Classes

Recruiting is the lifeblood of college football programs.  Schools that can't recruit stay marred in mediocrity, while those that consistently bring in talent find themselves competing year in and year out.  A recruiting class can't be judged purely on how players are ranked, however.  You have to look at how the players fit into the offensive and defensive systems, their ability to make an impact early on, as well as if positions of need were addressed.  Keeping all that in mind, here are our top five for 2011.

1. Boston College - BC again did a great job finding players that fit their style of play.  The Eagles brought in six offensive linemen, two of which, Paul Gaughan and Victor Nelson, show the ability to be able to contribute early.  Quarterback Christain Suntrup is a top quarterback prospect who could find his way onto the field by year two, and Mehdi Abdesmad has the potential to develop into a terror along the defensive line. Add in stud defensive back Albert Louis-Jean, and the Eagles have the makings of a very deep class.
2. UMass - The Minutemen continued their success in Florida, with standouts Jamal Wilson and Quayshun Smith headlining a talented group of Sunshine State transplants.  This was a skill heavy class for UMass and rightfully so, as they have recently shown struggles breaking off big plays.  Keep an eye on Mike Wegzyn, a quarterback from Tennessee with a strong arm and a surprising amount of running ability for a player his size.
3. Harvard - Surprised to see the Crimson so high on the list? We are too.  But Harvard did an excellent job securing some of the state's best talent.  The headliners of this class are defensive linemen Obum Obukwelu and offensive lineman Anthony Fabiano.  Both players had offers from a number of different FBS and FCS schools, yet picked Harvard for the reason that should take precedent: the education.  Expect both these players to see time early on and be major contributors throughout their careers.  
4. Maine - One of the more consistent recruiting programs in the area, Maine again brought in a class that included plenty of talent and improved depth.  Aamad Black is a big, punishing safety who excels at stopping the run and can adequately defend the pass.  Mahar Regional (MA) running back Isaiah Jones will bring big play ability to the backfield, and massive offensive lineman Benedict Wezel should develop into a mainstay at either offensive tackle position.  
5. UConn - A late coaching change threw a wrench in what looked like a promising class.  Nonetheless, new coach Paul Pasqualoni was able to bring in a solid bunch that should plug the major holes in the Huskies depth chart.  Max DeLorenzo and Deshon Foxx will be charged with the task of helping the Huskies rushing attack stay potent after the departure of Dartmouth native Jordan Todman to the NFL.  Linebacker Jefferson Ashiru is a gifted athlete who moves well laterally and should give UConn a boost right away.  Local product Paul Nwokeji has the size and skill set to develop into a dominating offensive linemen.