CFB: 2021 Top Five Players in the Big 12
The Big 12 is known to be an offensive powerhouse and this list resembles just that concept. While there is some talent on the defensive side of the ball, the firepower on offense overwhelms the conference which is why this list consists of mostly running backs, quarterbacks, and wide receivers. This list consists of players from the top teams in the conference such as Oklahoma and Texas, both schools have assembled talent at the next level and these guys are soon to follow. The five players are ranked on a scale that takes into account their skill, how they fill the stat sheet, and the impact they have on winning football games. If you want to check out the top five players in the Pac-12, click here.
5. Marvin Mims - Oklahoma, Wide Reciever
Marvin Mims is Spencer Rattler’s partner in crime on the football field. Together, this combination provides nightmares for opposing defensive coordinators. Mims is Rattler’s security blanket and go-to guy. In 2020, Mims was a freshman and had 37 receptions for 610 yards along with nine touchdowns. It is simple, Mims was a problem for defenses and he will only get better as he matures with experience. Mims is a vertical threat taking the top off of defenses and he has a massive catch radius. Mims will look to improve on his already outstanding numbers in 2021 and try to get the Sooners back into playoff contention.
4. Josh Sills - Oklahoma State, Offensive Line
Josh Sills is the best offensive lineman in this conference and potentially one of the most versatile in the nation. Sills has the experience, the transfer from West Virginia has competed in over four years of collegiate football. Sills has a big frame, standing at 6 foot 6 inches and weighing 330 pounds, he has the make-up of physical talent. In 2020, he was named First Team All-Big 12 and led the Cowboys in knockdowns with 35. What separates Sills from other linemen is his versatility, he can play both the guard and tackle position. Sills has long arms, enabling him to extend out at the point of contact and take care of opposing defenders. In 2021, Sills will be leading the offensive line in Stillwater hoping to carry the Cowboys to a Big 12 championship.
3. Bijan Robinson - Texas, Running Back
Bijan Robinson is likely to have a breakout sophomore campaign because of newly hired head coach Steve Sarkisian. Just as he did at Alabama, Sarkisian loves to get his playmakers involved and Sark led Alabama to have the best offense in the nation in 2020, hence why Robinson will have a monster year. Robinson was a five-star prospect and was ranked as the number one running back out of high school. Robinson runs hard and explosive, in 2020 he had almost 900 total yards and six touchdowns and these numbers will only increase this upcoming year. The running back will look to bring promise to Texas and kickstart a new era with coach Sarkisian.
2. Breece Hall - Iowa State, Running Back
Breece Hall is the most talented running back in the nation, his skill level is even getting his name mentioned in preseason Heisman Trophy rankings. Hall is a workhorse running back and he fills up the stat sheet. In 2020, he accumulated over 1,500 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns. Furthermore, Hall triumphed for over 100 yards in nine of Iowa State’s 12 games and was named a First Team All-American. His accolades continue as he was the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year and was named as a top-six Heisman Trophy contender in 2020. Hall has good short-area bursts and can make quick cuts contributing to his success as a runner. Hall will look to lead the Cyclones to a Big 12 championship in 2021 and hopefully collect some hardware in the Heisman Trophy race.
1. Spencer Rattler - Oklahoma, Quarterback
Coming in at number one is Spencer Rattler who is the most electric playmaker in college football. Rattler is a unique prospect, he reminds me of Kyler Murray and Patrick Mahomes. Yes, I realize that is huge praise but I am focusing on their ability to scramble out of the pocket, using their elusive talent to extend plays. Rattler can make all the throws on the field, hence why he threw for over 3,000 yards and 28 touchdowns in 2020. He thrives out of the pocket and his mobility allows him to be a threat with his feet. He has great accuracy throwing on the run allowing for coach Lincoln Riley to draw up multiple schemes. Rattler is the Heisman Trophy favorite for 2021, only time will tell if he can live up to the hype during his Sophomore year.
References Stats: https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/
Writer
-By: Justin Howard