JC transfers could make instant impact
With spring practice getting under way across the nation, here’s a look at the top junior college transfers who already are enrolled and need to make an impact during spring drills.
LB Sammy Brown, Houston
PARTICULARS: 6-3/232
JUNIOR COLLEGE: Mississippi Gulf Coast CC in Perkinston, Miss.; he went to Wiggins (Miss.) Stone High
BUZZ: If you saw Houston play defense last season — or, rather, attempt to play defense last season — you saw a team that lacked playmakers on that side of the ball. Houston has one starting linebacker spot open, but if Brown is as good as expected he will force his way into the starting lineup. He had 64 tackles, two interceptions and a forced fumble last season. He has good size and can run.
LB Derek Earls, Arizona
PARTICULARS: 6-3/225
JUNIOR COLLEGE: North Dakota State College of Science in Wahpeton, N.D.; he went to Waconia (Minn.) High
BUZZ: Arizona must replace all three of its starting linebackers, meaning there is ample opportunity for Earls — as well as fellow JC signee Paul Vassallo — to impress coaches this spring. Earls was a first-team National Junior College Athletic Association All-America selection this past season, when he had 108 tackles and 14 tackles for loss. Arizona coach Mike Stoops already has praised Earls’ athleticism. Earls was a second-team all-state running back in high school.
Rivals.com
2/17/10
