Re-ranking 2020’s actual top 25 recruiting classes, 4 years later
Which programs did the best job of finding, retaining and developing difference-makers over the last four years?
www.nytimes.com
The lowest-rated 2020 recruiting class in the Big 12 has proven to be a transformative one for Kansas. Les Miles’ staff deserves plenty of credit for sharp evaluations, and these players deserve credit for sticking around after an 0-9 season in 2020 and Miles’ abrupt exit.
Lance Leipold and his coaches have worked their magic with this crew. They developed Daniels, the No. 128 ranked QB in his class, into one of the Big 12’s top playmakers. Arnold, Cabeldue, WR Luke Grimm and RB Daniel Hishaw Jr. have helped him establish an explosive offense. Bryant, a two-time first-team All-Big 12 pick, and Dotson are an excellent duo at corner.
They’ve led a stunning turnaround over the past three years culminating in the Jayhawks’ first winning season (9-4) and first bowl victory since 2008. Eleven members of this class returned as fifth-year seniors for 2024, including seven who’ve started 20-plus games, and have this program poised for another huge season in 2024.
