Mark Pszonak contributed to this report.
The class of 2017 is signed and sealed, so as we look back on how programs did, we thought it would be interesting to rank the best 1-2 punches at each position.
Today we take a look at the defensive ends.
1. MICHIGAN
The skinny: With defensive guru Don Brown running the unit, adding elite talent on that side of the ball should definitely be a bit easier. And again this was proven at defensive end, where No. 5 on the weakside, Vilain, and No. 8 on the strongside, Hudson, will both add immediate depth to what is shaping up to be a potentially dominant line in the coming years.
Farrell’s take: Vilain was one of the fastest-rising prospects at the end of the cycle and is a terrific edge rusher. Hudson has excellent size and could end up moving inside or being dominant on the strongside. Vilain needs to fill out and Hudson needs to add some explosion, but both have very high ceilings.
2. GEORGIA
The skinny: As the Bulldogs also did at linebacker, they were able to keep two elite in-state talents home with Herring, the No. 6 strongside defensive end, and Beal, the No. 9 weakside defensive end. Beal, more of a speed rusher, should have more of an opportunity to contribute early, but both should make their mark in Athens.
Farrell’s take: Herring is a talented kid who can not only rush the passer but can hold the edge and stretch out the run. Beal has the quickness and potential to be that next great hybrid guy in Georgia’s system. They should be key contributors down the line.
3. CLEMSON
The skinny: The Clemson defensive line has become one of the more dominant units in the country in recent years. This is likely to continue, thanks to the addition of top recruits like Williams, the No. 4 strongside defensive end, and Foster, the No. 18 weakside defensive end. Because of depth at the position, Foster is more likely to gain a redshirt this season, but Williams is more than capable of picking up playing time in 2017.
Farrell’s take: There’s a bit of a dropoff from No. 2 to No. 3 here. Phillips has a ton of talent, and possesses the quickness and instincts to be the next impact end for Clemson. Foster needs to transition to the position as an oversized linebacker, but has the athleticism to excel.
