We have not been outside the top 15 in recruiting since 2006. How spoiled are we? I took a peek at the 2005 class that ranked on average about 20th: Kyle Anderson TE, 6-6, 260, Woodlands, Texas* Darry Beckwith LB, 6-1, 225, 4.5, Parkview Baptist Ciron Black OL, 6-5, 325, Tyler, Texas Harry Coleman LB, 6-2, 215, West ST Mary** Ricky Jean-Francois DE, 6-3, 260, Carol City, Florida Chris Hawkins DB, 6-1, 175, Walker, Louisiana Lyle Hitt DE, 6-3, 275, Parkview Baptist Trindon Holliday ATH, 5-7, 170, 4.27, Zachary, Louisiana Max Holmes C, 6-5, 270, Parkview Baptist** R. J. Jackson RB/ATH, 5-11, 196, 4.4, Houston Westside Alfred Jones DE/DT, 6-3, 240, ST Augustine of NO Sammy Joseph CB, 6-1, 190, from Colorado to LSU Steve Korte FB/LB, 6-2, 232, Fontainebleau HS * Brandon LaFell WR, 6-2, 185, 4.5, Houston Lamar Ryan Perrilloux QB, 6-3, 210, E ST John* Chase Pittman DE, 6-5, 270, from Texas to LSU Antonio Robinson RB, 6-1, 210, , Winnfield, LA* Not too shabby!
Smaller classes were common back in the day. Top 5? No way 1-5 star -- 6-4 stars-- 5-3stars Did not realize Ciron Black, Lafell and Holiday were all three stars.
They don't really know how to rank linemen. Highlight reels are....highlight films. Everyone looks good. I think coaches have to see them in person and against known opponents. I bet we get some real good ones developed down the road. Lots of eggs in the football recruiting basket.