This post begins a series reviewing each of our recruits for the 2010-11 recruiting cycle. We'll be reviewing the quality of each part of our class. Today, we begin with our backfield pickups.
Shon Carson, RB. Carson chose us back at the beginning of October after apparently having favored us for a long time. He did have a nice offer list that included Auburn and Florida St. The nation's 28th ranked RB, Carson runs a 4.4 and could bulk up into a solid back. He would give us quality depth for the next couple of years until Marcus Lattimore is gone, when he might be in position for more playing time. The other thing to know about Carson is that he is a star baseball player who may be drafted high in this year's draft. It remains to be seen if USC can hold onto him if his baseball stock skyrockets.
Tanner McEvoy, QB. McEvoy chose USC over a handful of programs including UNC. He just made the transition from QB to receiver this past season, so he's still developing at the position, but his numbers suggest that he has the makings of a very good QB. He's very big (6'5) and athletic and apparently runs the ball very well. It's very clear that we like him for his projected ability to run out a zone-read offense.
Brandon Wilds, RB. Wilds has been committed since August and chose USC over programs like Maryland and Illinois. Although not a very highly recruited player, Wilds fills a need as a power back. I wouldn't be surprised to see him get a look at FB at some point.
Backfield Grade: B. This part of our class lacks any true star power, and while Carson was fairly highly recruited, chances are he ends up playing baseball. That said, we filled needs with these pickups, and I like McEvoy's upside quite a bit. While not a household name in recruiting circles, he has all the physical tools needed to play at a high level and should be in the mix for playing time in 2012. That's why I'd call this part of our class good but not great.