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Big 12 Signing Day Blitz (cont.)

Posted: Thursday February 8, 2007 4:09PM; Updated: Thursday February 8, 2007 4:40PM
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By John Talman, Special to SI.com, Rivals.com

9. Texas Tech

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Headliner: Offensive tackle Lonnie Edwards, the highest-ranked overall prospect on the Red Raiders commitment list, quickly rose up the rankings as one of the top linemen in the state. After committing early to Baylor, Edwards switched late in the process to Tech. Edwards was the icing on the cake of a solid offensive line class that includes eight prospects.

Sleeper: Not many people other than Mike Leach and his staff knew about Oklahoma City (Okla.) Putnam City North defensive tackle Bobby Agoucha. The Red Raiders may have found a 6-4, 300-pound diamond in the rough. Originally from Houston, Agoucha's move to the Sooner State caused him to get lost in the shuffle. He could become a special player.

Overview: Texas Tech again signed a large group of prospects and another strong wide receiver group like last year. Jacob Amie and Rashad Hawk will add size to the receiver corps. Going after a large group of defensive tackles and ends, the Red Raiders ended up adding a lot of depth with seven linemen.

10. Kansas

Headliner: Like last year, the highest-ranked pickup for the Jayhawks was a cornerback, and he wasn't far away. Lawrence (Kan.) Free State's Ryan Murphy, rated as the nation's No. 19 corner, made a summertime commitment to KU and never looked back. As a do-it-all athlete, he rushed for 600 yards and threw for 1,662 more as a junior.

Sleeper: Three-star Tulsa (Okla.) East Central cornerback Anthony Davis had just 19 interceptions over the past two seasons. His only other offer came from Tulsa, however, that was not based on ability but rather grades. He could be a guy to watch out for in the next couple of years.

Overview: Defensively, Kansas fans have to be excited about the athleticism and size the Jayhawks added to the program with their 2007 group. Drew Dudley and Justin Springer were considered under the radar, but Mark Mangino evaluated well enough to close strong with these prospects.

11. Iowa State

Headliner: The nation's No. 15 junior college prospect, four-star all-purpose back Jamicah Bass, made a late-December pledge to the Cyclones. Bass may not have the eligibility of a high school player, but should make an instant impact for ISU. Bass was originally from Florida and held scholarship offers from the likes of Colorado, Ole Miss, NC State and Oregon State.

Sleeper: Longview (Texas) Pine Tree offensive tackle Joseph Klerekoper may have fallen under the radar after making an early commitment to UTEP. However, at 6-6, 300 pounds, though very raw, Klerekoper could really turn into a solid man up front for the Cyclones.

Overview: In the middle of the recruiting season, ISU had a coaching change, and new head coach Gene Chizik hit the ground running. Hanging on to commitments from prospects like quarterback Phillip Bates was key in making this class one to remember. Chizik may have found several Texas diamonds in the rough, including prospects Cameron Bell and Jerrod Black.

12. Baylor

Headliner: The top commitment for the Bears was the last prospect to commit. Four-star Louisiana linebacker Earl Patin, a Rivals250 member, took a Feb. 2 visit to check out the Bears and apparently found a perfect fit. Patin could fit into the mix early with Baylor.

Sleeper: Cornerback Barry Valcin was one of the first commitments for LSU, but he ended up changing his decision. The Bears took a shot on Valcin, who is raw in his corner ability but has a ton of natural athleticism. His coverage skills will continue to improve at the next level, and he's a well-built kid who can match up well with bigger receivers.

Overview: Despite losing commitments such as Lonnie Edwards and G.J. Kinne, the Bears rebounded well, adding junior college prospects and an impressive offensive line class. Speed was an emphasis and though guys like linebacker Chris Sanders don't pack a huge frame, they'll add quickness to the defense.

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