We continue to roll out, update, tweak, edit and revisit our projections and previews prior to your fantasy draft. And while doing so we're going to occasionally take a more-detailed look at some of the nation's more intriguing stars for 2012.
The players featured over the next month or so may not be the top player at their respective positions, but they'll be ones that caused the most discussion around our roundtable or appear poised for a breakout or letdown campaign.
Breakdowns of college football's top offensive stars can of course be found in the CFFInsider.com 2012 Draft Kit.
2012 Position Rank: #4 ranked sleeper QB
2012 Draft Kit Preview:
Chandler Harnish is gone, but the Huskies are in good hands with Jordan Lynch. Lynch saw action in 13 games last fall and nine in 2010, so he's battle tested. Lynch is a lethal runner and already has 608 yards rushing and six touchdowns on just 76 carries the last two years. In full-time duty he'll push for 1000-yards on the season. The big question is can Lynch pass? If the spring game is any indication than no worries. Lynch completed 29-of-44 passes for 402 yards and four touchdowns in NIU's spring game. Lynch is poised to be one of the top newcomers in 2012, but he's no secret. Expect to take him in the early rounds if he's a must have on your board.
Final Thought:
Lynch is not your typical first-year starter. He's seen plenty of snaps the two years to get him ready for full-time duty. Still, the numbers are rush heavy. He's only attempted 26 passes to 76 rushes. At only 6-0 and 216 pounds and an average arm, don't look for Lynch to become a prolific pocket passer. His biggest threat is going to be on the ground, where he is an extremely dangerous runner. Given this, his value is much higher in 4pt passing TD leagues. At his size and how much he's going to run, you also have to be a bit concerned about durability.
Still he should put up big rushing numbers, especially in the conference schedule. Take away the opening game against Iowa and the non-conference schedule is very fantasy friendly as well. Making Lynch one of the top new starters fantasy owners should key on on draft day.
But you'll have to pay. He was an early 7th round pick in the Athlon all-124 mock draft, so don't expect him slip through the cracks on draft day. If you want him, you'll have to take him early to ensure you get him.
Final Thoughts:
I was a bit disappointed at how soon Lynch went in the Athlon draft. I was hoping he'd slide a few rounds and I could get a steal. I imagine his stock will only rise as more owners become more familiar with his potential. At some point, Lynch could go from being a value pick to overpriced on draft day. At what round the flip happens depends on your league size and format. In a large 2-3 QB league like the Athlon draft, a 7th round pick is still good value. Much earlier though and he starts become less attractive.