Big 12's Top 10 Players

SI Staff | Aug 22, 2007

Big 12's Top 10 Players /

Big 12's Top 10 Players

Ian Campbell, DE, Jr.

The former walk-on tied for the Big 12 lead in sacks last season with 11 1/2. Campbell boasts notable quickness off the edge and has a motor that won't quit.

Malcolm Kelly, WR, Jr.

Kelly had a breakout season in '06, catching 62 balls for 993 yards and 10 touchdowns. Whoever ends up starting behind center for Oklahoma will enjoy throwing to one of the most complete receivers in America.

Limas Sweed, WR, Sr.

As Colt McCoy's favorite target, Sweed hauled in 12 touchdown receptions last year. Sweed's massive size (6-foot-5, 219 pounds) makes him a difficult matchup for any college cornerback.

Chase Daniel, QB, Jr.

Daniel orchestrates Missouri's spread offense to perfection. Last season -- his first year as a starter -- Daniel passed for 3,527 yards and 28 touchdowns and ran for an additional 379 yards and four scores.

Alvin Bowen, LB, Sr.

Known to his teammates as "Ace," Bowen led the NCAA in tackles per game (12.9). A bit undersized last year, Bowen added 15 pounds of muscle in the offseason.

Frank Okam, DT, Sr.

Okam could have been a high pick in this year's NFL Draft, but he chose to return for his senior season. The 6-foot-5, 320-pounder wreaks havoc on opposing offensive lines, hence the nickname "Nightmare."

Colt McCoy, QB, So.

A question mark going into last season, McCoy easily led the Big 12 in passing efficiency (161.8). Texas fans will never forget Vince Young, but McCoy's instant production helped temper the loss.

Aqib Talib, CB, Jr.

Rated by some experts as the top corner in America, Talib shuts down one side of the field for the Jayhawks. He led the Big 12 with six interceptions last season.

Reggie Smith, S/CB, Jr.

The preseason Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year will probably play corner this season, but he was a first team All-Big 12 performer at strong safety in 2006. The versatile playmaker also handles all return duties for the Sooners.

Adarius Bowman, WR, Sr.

The North Carolina transfer became one of America's finest deep threats in 2006 with a ridiculous average of 19.7 yards per catch. Bowman had one of the most impressive individual performances of the season against North Carolina, catching 13 balls for 300 yards and four touchdowns.

Published Aug 22, 2007

SI STAFF