Sunday, July 4, 2010

Dowling better than advertised

Phil Steele’s College Football Preview Magazine has been the rated the most accurate prognostication publication for its sport over the last 12 years.

With that in mind, the magazine’s 2010 edition lists Southeast High graduate Jon Dowling as one of the top 500 freshmen in this year’s class.

Having spoken to Phil a few times, I have the utmost respect for him, but I have to disagree with some of his fortune telling for 2010, particularly in this case.

He has Dowling listed as the 18th best defensive back entering college. I figure he is much better than 18th and will prove it unless Gators coach Urban Meyer moves him to receiver as has been discussed.

Similar to many other publications, Steele has St. Thomas Aquinas grad LaMarcus Joyner (headed for FSU) as the second best DB in the ’10 freshman class. The 5-8, 165 pound Joyner sure didn’t show anything special when his team saw its national number one ranking and unbeaten streak end in a loss to Manatee in the state semis.

The cornerback has a size issue for his position. People are saying he makes up for that with his speed and acceleration, but have to feel the 6-3, 185 pound Dowling can bring a lot more to the table, including a physical presence.

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