Midseason First and Second Team All-American Projections

Updated Mar. 4, 2020 3:29 p.m. ET

share

facebookxredditlink

foxsports

Now that every team in the country has played at least six games of its regular season, which players are in line to earn All-American honors?

At the end of the year, various organizations and media outlets issue lists of All-American selections. The big five, comprised of the Associated Press, the Football Writers Association of America, the Sporting News, the American Football Coaches Association, and the Walter Camp Foundation, are the basis for consensus (three out of five) and unanimous (all five) determinations. These awards recognize the best players in the country, and being selected by any or all of the organizations is a high-water mark for any player’s career.

After Week 8 marked the halfway point for the last stragglers among FBS schools, it is time to reflect on which players might get the nod to an All-American team in December. The following players have been the most dominant in college football to this point of the year, and many will also factor in the discussion for other individual awards at the end of the regular season. So click through and see who we expect to be honored with All-American status. (We have broken down each first-team projection individually, and a full list of second-team selections can be found at the end of the slideshow.)

Oct 22, 2016; Louisville, KY, USA; Louisville Cardinals quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) runs the ball against North Carolina State Wolfpack linebacker Airius Moore (58) during the first quarter at Papa John’s Cardinal Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Rhodes-USA TODAY Sports

QB: Lamar Jackson (Louisville)

What can’t Lamar Jackson do for the high-powered Louisvile offense? He is tied for the national lead in total touchdowns scored and has had responsibility for the second most points in the country. He averages 130 rushing yards per game, good for seventh nationally and the top mark among quarterbacks. He also averages over 300 passing yards per game with an 18-to-4 touchodown-to-interception ratio.

While we have seen other dual-threat quarterbacks post gaudy numbers in recent years, Jackson is doing so in a way that has been not just effective but also efficient. His 16.13 yards-per-completion average is tops in the nation, and he is ninth in the country while averaging 6.98 yards per carry. The Heisman front-runner from Louisville has taken the country by storm, and he’s likely to finish atop most All-American lists at quarterback as well.

Oct 21, 2016; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego State Aztecs running back Donnel Pumphrey (R) scores a touchdown during the third quarter as /sf19d/ and cornerback Andre Chachere (21) defend at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports

RB: Donnel Pumphrey (San Diego State)

Donnel Pumphrey is rushing for an average of 178 yards per game, more than 30 more yards than second-placed Brian Hill of Wyoming. Pumphrey is not only breaking Marshall Faulk’s old records at San Diego State, but he is also dominating the national rushing statistics. He was the only back this year to pass the 1000-yard rushing mark in six games. Pumphrey ranks second behind only Lamar Jackson in rushing touchdowns. And despite his heavy workload, the Aztec runner is still among the top 25 nationally in yards per carry.

Add it all up and you get the most dynamic pure running back in the country. Despite a lack of returning responsibilities on either kicks or punts, and only minor use in the SDSU passing game, Pumphrey is still third nationally in all-purpose yards per game. Already the record holder across the board in his school’s history, the senior running back looks like a sure bet for a consensus first-team All-American nod — if not a unanimous selection.

Oct 22, 2016; Lubbock, TX, USA; Oklahoma Sooners running back Joe Mixon (25) rushes against Texas Tech Red Raiders defensive back Jordyn Brooks (20) in the first half at Jones AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Michael C. Johnson-USA TODAY Sports

RB: Joe Mixon (Oklahoma)

Oklahoma has rebounded from early losses to Houston and Ohio State to take charge of the Big 12, and Mixon has been a big part of the recovery. Picking up more of the workload in the Sooners backfield after Samaje Perine battled through various injuries, Mixon has been one of the most prolific backs in college football. Thanks to his versatility both running and catching the ball out of the backfield, Mixon has built a solid case for All-American inclusion this year.

The redshirt sophomore has done a little bit of everything for Oklahoma’s offense. He runs for over 100 yards a game while averaging 6.72 yards per carry, second-best among running backs with at least 100 carries. Mixon has also averaged more than 50 receiving yards per game and also returns kickoffs. As a result he is second nationally in all-purpose yardage, and with every one of Oklahoma’s remaining opponents ranked outside the top 50 in rushing defense Mixon is poised to pad his stats even further.

Oct 22, 2016; Lubbock, TX, USA; Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Dede Westbrook (11) is tackled by Texas Tech Red Raiders defensive back Jordyn Brooks (20) in the first half at Jones AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Michael C. Johnson-USA TODAY Sports

WR: Dede Westbrook (Oklahoma)

Like Mixon in the Oklahoma backfield, Dede Westbrook has been a game-changer for the Sooners offense in 2016. He started the season slowly, averaging just 5.5 catches and 51.3 yards per game in non-conference play. But once the Big 12 schedule started for the Sooners, Westbrook launched his play into another stratosphere. The redshirt senior who started his college career at Blinn Community College is now one of the best receivers in the country.

Westbrook is ranked fourth nationally in receiving yards per game and tied for third in the country with 10 receiving touchdowns. In conference play, he is averaging nine catches, 194 yards, and 2.5 touchdowns per game as Oklahoma has moved to 4-0 in Big 12 play. If he can continue to average more than 20 yards per reception for the rest of the year, Westbrook will be a lock for a first-team All-American spot and likely to get a consensus nod.

Oct 15, 2016; Akron, OH, USA; Western Michigan Broncos wide receiver Corey Davis (84) tosses the ball after scoring a touchdown during the third quarter against the Akron Zips at InfoCision Stadium. Western Michigan Broncos won 41-0. Mandatory Credit: Jason Mowry-USA TODAY Sports

WR: Corey Davis (Western Michigan)

Corey Davis has been a big reason why Western Michigan is currently 8-0 and fighting for the Group of Five’s automatic bid into the Cotton Bowl. The senior has been connecting with quarterback Zach Terrell all season to set the Broncos up as MAC favorites. Averaging six catches and over 90 yards per game, Davis is currently tied for the national lead in receiving touchdowns and already has four games this season with multiple scores.

Western Michigan’s remaining schedule that includes Buffalo and Toledo, two defenses ranked in the top 50 in passing yards allowed per game. As a result Davis will have an opportunity to maximize his impact and exposure as WMU attempts to remain unbeaten. If the Broncos manage to finish the regular season undefeated and win the MAC, Davis is certain to show up on enough All-American ballots for consensus status.

Oct 1, 2016; Oxford, MS, USA; Mississippi Rebels tight end Evan Engram (17) scores a touchdown during the third quarter of the game against the Memphis Tigers at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Mississippi won 48-28. Mandatory Credit: Matt Bush-USA TODAY Sports

TE: Evan Engram (Ole Miss)

No tight end in the country has been a more consistent threat from week to week than Evan Engram at Ole Miss. The 6’3″, 215-pound senior has provided Rebels quarterback Chad Kelly with one of the best receiving threats in the country. Taking advantage of his size and ability to separate from defenders, Hugh Freeze has turned Engram into the most dangerous pass-catching tight end in college football.

Engram leads all tight ends nationally with 5.7 receptions and 86.4 receiving yards per game. He is also second in the country in receiving touchdowns among tight ends. Already the all-time leader in Ole Miss history for receptions and receiving yards at his position, Engram also passed the mark for touchdowns midway through this season. Sure to be a high draft choice in the NFL next year, Engram should finish his college career as a unanimous All-American selection.

Sep 3, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide offensive lineman Cam Robinson (74) in action during the game against the USC Trojans at AT&T Stadium. Alabama defeats USC 52-6. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

OT: Cam Robinson (Alabama)

The 6’6″, 327-pound junior left tackle was a freshman All-American selection two years ago and was picked for the All-SEC first team last year as Alabama won the national championship. Playing with a young quarterback who is still developing has hurt Alabama’s offensive line stats a bit this year, yet the Tide keep rolling on toward what is likely to be a third straight College Football Playoff appearance. Robinson has been a big part of that success.

Over the offseason the veteran tackle was looking at felony controlled substance and illegal firearm charges. But the case was thrown out due to insufficient evidence and Robinson never missed any playing time this season. Projected at multiple positions at the NFL level, Robinson is a strong run blocker for a team that loves to run both inside and outside the tackles. As the leader of a national contender that ranks ninth nationally in rushing yards per game, Robinson will take one of the All-American tackle spots.

Sep 17, 2016; Pullman, WA, USA; Washington State Cougars wide receiver Gabe Marks (9) Washington State Cougars offensive lineman Cody O’Connell (76) celebrate a touchdown against the Idaho Vandals during the first half at Martin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports

OG: Cody O’Connell (Washington State)

The fact that Washington State is one of the pleasant surprises in the Pac-12 this season is due in large part to great offensive line play. The interior line has been anchored by O’Connell, a 6’8″, 350-pound redshirt junior who is beginning to draw notice for his strong blend of pass and run blocking. Despite his size, one of the left guard’s greatest strengths is his downfield blocking. Here’s one such play where he cleared out two defenders for a touchdown against Oregon:

The passing game is Mike Leach’s bread and butter, but with O’Connell leading the way the team has been solid in converting third downs and getting positive yardage on the ground as well. The ground game will never be a major part of the WSU offense, but it has been better than ever before during Leach’s tenure thanks in large part to O’Connell. He has the ability to collapse entire sides of defensive lines as well as to move on to the second level to keep paving the way for Washington State’s running backs.

Oct 8, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes offensive lineman Billy Price (54) celebrates the block that sprung a touchdown with offensive lineman Pat Elflein (65) during the 2nd quarter against the Indiana Hoosiers at Ohio Stadium. Ohio State Buckeyes lead 24-10 at half. Mandatory Credit: Joe Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports

C: Pat Elflein (Ohio State)

Pat Elflein has played everywhere on the interior offensive line for Ohio State. Last year he alternated between left and right guard and was a second-team AP All-American selection. This year he has shifted to center for the Buckeyes, and could be looking at a first-team nomination in 2016. He was one of just three returning players on the line with starting experience, and has helped anchor what has evolved into one of the best lines in the country.

Elflein came back as a fifth-year senior hoping to push Ohio State toward another Big Ten title and another chance at a national championship. He has been the linchpin for a team that ranks in the top five nationally in most categories of Football Outsiders’ advanced offensive line stats. Despite the inevitable disappointment after the loss to Penn State, the Buckeyes are in control of their own fate still in their division, and Elflein is a big reason why.

Nov 28, 2015; Auburn, AL, USA; Auburn Tigers running back Jovon Robinson follows the block of lineman Braden Smith (71) as he blocks Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Adonis Thomas (17) during the second quarter at Jordan Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Reed-USA TODAY Sports

OG: Braden Smith (Auburn)

Auburn looked dead in the water in September when they lost to Clemson and Texas A&M to begin the year 1-2. It turned out they were merely trying to get their footing against two of the toughest teams in the country, and since that loss to the Aggies they have won four straight. They have turned around their season thanks in large part to the run game, and the man at the heart of the offensive line opening holes for Kamryn Pettway and crew has been guard Braden Smith.

Smith — a 6’6″, 300-pound right guard from Kansas — has been a big part of leading the Tigers backs to daylight on the Plains. Auburn is ranked third nationally in rushing yards per game, and tied for eighth in rushing touchdowns, and has converted over 48% of its third-down opportunities. Both blocking for interior runs and in pulling situations, Smith has been integral in clearing paths for one of the best running games by committee in the country.

Sep 24, 2016; East Lansing, MI, USA; Wisconsin offensive lineman Ryan Ramczyk (65) blocks Michigan State defensive end Evan Jones (85) during the second quarter of their game at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel via USA TODAY Sports

OT: Ryan Ramczyk (Wisconsin)

When Paul Chryst left Wisconsin to take the head coaching job at Pitt, Ryan Ramczyk declined the opportunity to follow the coach. He took a year off football, then started playing at Division III UW-Stevens Point in his hometown. When Chryst returned to Madison, Ramczyk took the opportunity to move two hours south and fulfill a childhood dream of playing for the Badgers. In turn he has maintained a tradition of tough offensive linemen built to operate Wisconsin’s power-running game.

Ramczyk has played at both tackle spots for the Badgers this season, protecting the blindside of both right-handed Bart Houston and lefty Alex Hornibrook. This year the Badgers have had the fourth best offensive line in terms of opponent-adjusted line yards, helping to keep a still-developing offense in many of its games by providing additional moments for plays to develop. As the pivotal QB protector and a great off-tackle blocker, Ramczyk is sure to get long looks from All-American organizations in December.

Oct 8, 2016; College Station, TX, USA; Texas A&M Aggies defensive lineman Myles Garrett (15) tackles Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Joshua Dobbs (11) during the first quarter at Kyle Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

DE: Myles Garrett (Texas A&M)

Myles Garrett is currently 11th nationally in tackles for loss, averaging more than one and a half per game. He seems to play at his biggest when the stakes are highest. Against Tennessee he had a sack, a forced fumble, and a tackle for loss. Against Alabama he finished with seven total tackles of which more than half were for a loss. He did not play against South Carolina, but otherwise has been a major part in A&M’s big season to date.

The Aggies still have games against New Mexico State and UTSA on the schedule in between the last three SEC showdowns. Both Group of Five opponents are ranked outside the top 100 in terms of sacks allowed, meaning that Garrett should have no problem reaching double digits in that column for the third straight season. If the Aggies manage to run the rest of their table, a big reason will be because Garrett was able to disrupt opposing offenses.

Sep 22, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Clemson Tigers defensive lineman Christian Wilkins (42) tackles Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets quarterback Justin Thomas (5) in the first quarter at Bobby Dodd Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

DT: Christian Wilkins (Clemson)

Locking down the center of Clemson’s defensive line, Christian Wilkins has been a critical part of the Tigers’ top-ten defense. The rangy sophomore, a 6’4″, 310-pound behemoth, often occupies several offensive linemen’s attention yet still manages to get his stats. He is able to do a little bit of everything, intelligently disrupting offenses on both running and passing plays as Clemson marches toward what they hope is another ACC title and College Football Playoff berth.

Wilkins already has 8.5 tackles for loss and three sacks despite playing in the chaos of the interior, and has helped open space up for players like Carlos Watkins to get to the quarterback as well. The big defender has also blocked four passes at the line of scrimmage, showing a presence of mind to get his arms in the air if he can’t get to the quarterback in time. A fumble recovery in the season opener on a goal-line stand against Auburn was directly responsible for keeping Clemson on an undefeated path.

Oct 8, 2016; College Station, TX, USA; Tennessee Volunteers defensive end Derek Barnett (9) and Texas A&M Aggies offensive lineman Avery Gennesy (65) in action during the game at Kyle Field. The Aggies defeat the Volunteers 45-38 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

DE: Derek Barnett (Tennessee)

Derek Barnett will almost certainly earn All-American honors after helping propel Tennessee to SEC contention as a junior. Barnett amassed six sacks and 11.5 tackles for loss in the Volunteers’ first seven games of the season, consistently putting pressure on offensive tackles and guards. And while Tennessee ultimately fell by 39 points against Alabama, Barnett did manage to track this tipped Jalen Hurts pass:

It resulted in the first interception of Barnett’s college career, showing a maturation to stick with a play that has elevated his play in 2016. An All-SEC second teamer in 2015, Barnett has five more games to bolster his stats further. With all their toughest tests behind the Volunteers, there should be plenty of opportunities for the defensive end to show his dominant side as Tennessee aims for its first division title in over a decade.

Oct 22, 2016; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini running back Ke’Shawn Vaughn (5) is tackled by Michigan Wolverines defensive end Chris Wormley (43) and linebacker Jabrill Peppers (5) in the first half at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

OLB: Jabrill Peppers (Michigan)

It is hard to pin down Jabrill Peppers’ exact role for the Michigan defense, but after playing more at defensive back in 2015 the versatile junior has spent more time drifting from an outside linebacker position in 2016. In addition to moonlighting on offense and starring as a return man on both punts and kickoffs, Peppers has developed into one of the most impactful defenders in college football in Jim Harbaugh’s system that maximizes his skill set.

Peppers has been adept at both pass rushing and run defense. The nominal linebacker has put up traditional numbers at the position, ranking in the top 20 nationally with 10.5 tackles for loss and adding 2.5 sacks. His 41 total tackles rank second-best on a Wolverines unit that is full of playmakers. He has yet to snag a turnover this season, but given his ability to make plays all over the field it only feels like a matter of time before that technicality seals his All-American selection.

Sep 10, 2016; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Western Kentucky Hilltoppers wide receiver Taywan Taylor (2) is tackled by Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reuben Foster (10) at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports

ILB: Reuben Foster (Alabama)

Under Nick Saban, Alabama has enjoyed a long string of dominant inside linebackers. Reuben Foster is the most recent quarterback of Saban’s defense who merits All-American consideration. After taking the offseason to trim weight and build muscle in hopes of gaining speed and acceleration, Foster has shown off his newfound burst at middle linebacker for the defending national champions.

He racked up 12 tackles apiece against Ole Miss and Texas A&M in two of Alabama’s biggest games of the season. Foster is the catalyst of a defense that ranks first nationally in rushing yards allowed, fourth in total yards allowed, and seventh in points allowed. He has 4.5 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks, and helps plug up gaps and tie up blockers so that his teammates can get in to finish the job. For Alabama repeats as national champion, Foster will have to continue playing at an All-American level.

Oct 15, 2016; Athens, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs running back Nick Chubb (27) is tackled by Vanderbilt Commodores linebacker Zach Cunningham (41) and defensive back Bryce Lewis (30) during the first quarter at Sanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

ILB: Zach Cunningham (Vanderbilt)

Zach Cunningham has become the face of the Vanderbilt defense, helping bring a team that has gone 7-17 over the past two seasons to at least .500-level ball. After notching 103 total tackles in 2015, Cunningham already has 85 this season. The redshirt junior ranks sixth nationally in tackles for loss per game. But his biggest play so far this year was this stop for no gain that preserved a win against Georgia:

Cunningham recovered a fumble in the season opener against South Carolina, though it wasn’t enough to spark a victory. But for a player that has one last chance at making a bowl game before his NFL career begins, Cunningham is doing everything in his power to elevate the Commodores. His All-American level of play is a big reason why Vanderbilt is playing better than it has since Derek Mason took over for James Franklin.

Sep 19, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Washington Huskies defensive lineman Joe Mathis (5) grabs Utah State Aggies running back LaJuan Hunt (21) during the first half at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports

OLB: Joe Mathis (Washington)

Joe Mathis is one of those hybrid defensive end/outside linebacker hybrids that have become so prevalent in the variable defensive schemes used especially at the pro level. The senior suffered a foot injury that forced him to miss the Oregon State game, and if he misses significant time it could prove costly to his All-American status. But given that he is leading a top-five team in sacks and tackles for loss from his hybrid position, Mathis merits midseason consideration for honors.

Mathis has notched five sacks, good enough to lead a strong Huskies defensive unit in the category and rank in the top 30 nationally in the category. He is also tied with Greg Gaines for the team lead in tackles for loss. An extended loss to the end-linebacker could prove costly for Chris Petersen’s team as it strives for Washington’s first Pac-12 championship since the league expanded. If he comes back and UW keeps winning, Mathis should get plenty of attention from All-American selectors.

Oct 8, 2016; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick (29) returns an interception for 100 yard touchdown against the Arkansas Razorbacks during the fourth quarter at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Alabama won 49-30. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-USA TODAY Sports

CB: Minkah Fitzpatrick (Alabama)

Minkah Fitzpatrick has been a dynamo in the defensive backfield for the Crimson Tide this season, throwing opponents off their rhythm not just in coverage but all over the field. The sophomore from New Jersey has 1.5 sacks and two tackles for loss when he pushes forward on defense. Against opposing receivers, he has broken up five passes. Against Arkansas, he nabbed three interceptions… including this one:

That 105-yard return set a new Alabama record as the Tide stomped the Razorbacks in early October. Since that performance Fitzpatrick has not snagged any more turnovers, in large part because subsequent opponents were less inclined to throw his direction. Fitzpatrick gives Saban and his defensive staff the confidence that one half of the field will be effectively covered at all times, a trait that will earn the sophomore All-American status.

Sep 24, 2016; Tucson, AZ, USA; Arizona Wildcats running back J.J. Taylor (23) is brought down by Washington Huskies defensive back Budda Baker (32) during the first quarter at Arizona Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Casey Sapio-USA TODAY Sports

S: Budda Baker (Washington)

Budda Baker has been a big factor in Washington’s rise to the top of the Pac-12 North this season. The Huskies rank in the top 15 in the country in both passing yards allowed and opponent passing efficiency, and no team is better than Washington in terms of turnover margin. While Baker has just one interception himself so far this year, he did force a fumble against Idaho that resulted in a touchdown. No team has more fumble recoveries than UW.

Baker has also provided the backup to allow his defensive backfield mates to nab a half-dozen more interceptions. He is third on the team with 29 total tackles, helping close down any receivers that do manage to catch a ball against the secondary. As long as Washington contends for the Pac-12 title and a spot in the College Football Playoff, Baker will continue to pop up on All-American lists at the end of the season.

Oct 8, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes safety Malik Hooker (24) returns the interception during the second half against the Indiana Hoosiers at Ohio Stadium. The Buckeyes won 38-17. Mandatory Credit: Joe Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports

S: Malik Hooker (Ohio State)

Malik Hooker has been a dominant presence in a secondary that is tied for fourth in the country in turnover ratio and ranks fifth nationally in points allowed, passing yards allowed, and opponent passing efficiency. The redshirt sophomore has four interceptions in seven games this year, putting him at sixth in the country in interception rate per game. This includes one that he returned 26 yards for a touchdown against Tulsa:

To go with his four interceptions, Hooker also has three pass breakups along with half a sack and four tackles for loss. The defensive back is third on the team in total tackles, and still has several more statement games to bolster his position in the eyes of All-American selectors. If he continues to shut down opponents’ top corners as he has for much of this season, a consensus choice could be in his near future.

Sep 10, 2016; Gainesville, FL, USA; Florida Gators defensive back Teez Tabor (31) intecepts the ball against the Kentucky Wildcats during the first half at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

CB: Teez Tabor (Florida)

The cornerback formerly known as Jalen, Teez Tabor found himself in offseason trouble and was suspended for the season opener against Massachusetts by Florida coach Jim McElwain. But the top-rated defensive back according to several NFL draft services has lived up to that billing since his return. The shutdown corner has nabbed four interceptions, good enough to tie for third nationally.

Yet because he missed one game due to suspension and another after the Gators had to reschedule their game against LSU due to Hurricane Matthew, Tabor has played only five games. As a result he leads the country in interception rate per game. His success comes despite the fact that most offensive coordinators seem to have consciously started directing their passing attacks as far away as possible from the lockdown corner. This is one Gator who has more than lived up to his All-American billing.

Sep 24, 2016; Tempe, AZ, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils place kicker Zane Gonzalez (5) kicks a field goal against the California Golden Bears at Sun Devil Stadium. The Sun Devils won 51-41. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

K: Zane Gonzalez (Arizona State)

No coach in the country has as much confidence in his placekicker as Arizona State’s Todd Graham, who is blessed with one of the few college kickers that is pretty much automatic regardless of distance. Zane Gonzalez, a four-year starter in Tempe, has become the most consistent kicker in the game as a senior. No other kicking specialist has attempted, let alone made, as many long field goals as Gonzalez.

Through the first two-thirds of the Sun Devils’ season, Gonzalez is 20-of-21 on field goal attempts. Most of those attempts have come from 40 yards and beyond thanks to an Arizona State offense that has been unable to reach the red zone with any regularity. Gonzalez is 6-of-6 between 40 and 49 yards, and his only miss so far this year came when he tried a 53-yard shot against UTSA. Combined with 28 extra points, Gonzalez is the highest-scoring kicker in the FBS and looks like a consensus All-American this season.

Nov 21, 2015; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes punter Cameron Johnston (95) punts the ball against the Michigan State Spartans at Ohio Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

P: Cameron Johnston (Ohio State)

Cameron Johnston, the Australian in his final season at Ohio State, has been a force yet again for the Buckeyes and will probably beat out Utah’s Mitch Wishnowsky for the first-team All-American nod at punter. Johnson has averaged 49.5 yards per punt in 2016, with just three of his 28 attempts ending up in the endzone for touchbacks. He boomed a 68-yarder at Oklahoma and a 70-yarder at Wisconsin, serving as a massive field-position game changer for Urban Meyer.

Usually fans don’t have any desire to see their team’s punter take the field. But when a team has a weapon like Johnston to trot out, there is at least the confidence that the opponents will be pinned back on their next drive. If the graduate student from Geelong keeps booting punts like he has in the first seven games of Ohio State’s regular season, the veteran Buckeye will take home top honors.

Oct 1, 2016; Pullman, WA, USA; Oregon Ducks wide receiver Charles Nelson (6) returns a kick for a touchdown against the Washington State Cougars during the second half at Martin Stadium. The Cougars won 51-33. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports

RET: Charles Nelson (Oregon)

Not much has been going well for Oregon in 2016, but they have at least enjoyed some better field position thanks to speedy returner Charles Nelson. The versatile Nelson moved back from defensive back to a hybrid receiver/runner role on offense this season, but his biggest impact has been on special teams. Undersized but with 4.4 speed, Nelson has consistently burned return coverage units throughout his career and continues to do so in 2016.

The Duck leads all players in the country in combined kick and punt return yardage, gaining more than 100 total return yards per game. Nelson averages over 30 yards per kick return and more than 20 yards per punt return. The junior took one kickoff 100 yards for a touchdown against Washington State in early October. If he keeps putting Oregon in solid field position, Nelson should be looking at an All-American nod as a returner in 2016.

Oct 8, 2016; Piscataway, NJ, USA; Michigan Wolverines running back Jabrill Peppers (5) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during their game against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights at High Points Solutions Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports

ALL: Jabrill Peppers (Michigan)

Jabrill Peppers will probably get named as an All-American linebacker, but most lists will likely also have the do-everything star listed as their all-purpose selection as well. A phenomenal athlete who was named by the Sporting News as a second-team All-American at defensive back last year, Peppers provides a number of skills for Jim Harbaugh’s team. He leads a stout Wolverines defense with 10.5 tackles for loss to go along with 2.5 sacks and 41 total tackles.

Peppers also averages over 30 yards per kickoff return, 16 yards per punt return, and has a return touchdown already this season. He has also chipped part time on offense, including a 74-yard rushing effort against Rutgers. The ironman athlete is one of Michigan’s best defenders and one of their more versatile weapons on offense and special teams. With six tackles and more than 70 all-purpose yards per game, the Michigan man truly deserves this honor in 2016.

Oct 22, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Washington Huskies quarterback Jake Browning (3) eyes wide receiver Aaron Fuller (12) for a touchdown against the Oregon State Beavers during the first quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports

Second-Team Selections

Sadly, there are only 26 slots for the first team of All-American selections, when there are so many great players across the country that deserve their due. Luckily the various awarding organizations usually name a second team of players as well, so we have done the same. Many great players were still left off the list, and some names are undoubtedly disputable. (Feel free to tell me where I got it wrong @zbigalke on Twitter.)

Offense

Defense

Special Teams

More from Saturday Blitz

This article originally appeared on

share