Hits & Misses
Hit: Brian Reader (QB) — Originally unranked. Outcome: College Starter. Reader emerged as a reliable option under center, contributing significantly to the team's depth at the quarterback position.
Hit: Conrad Scheidt (LB) — Originally unranked. Outcome: College Starter. Scheidt developed into a key player for the defense, showcasing his capability as a starter throughout his college career.
Hit: Jordan Johnson (OT) — Originally unranked. Outcome: College Starter. Johnson solidified the offensive line, becoming a dependable starter and contributing to the team's overall performance.
Hit: Mike Lagrone (TE) — Originally unranked. Outcome: College Starter. Lagrone established himself as a significant target in the passing game and a solid performer in blocking schemes.
Hit: Clayton Homme (WR) — Originally unranked. Outcome: Contributor. Homme provided valuable depth at the receiver position, contributing to the team's offensive efforts during his tenure.
Hit: Denzell Wedgeworth (WR) — Originally unranked. Outcome: Contributor. Wedgeworth was instrumental in adding depth to the receiving corps and made notable contributions in various games.
Hit: Gary Walker (ATH) — Originally unranked. Outcome: Contributor. Walker took on multiple roles, adding versatility to the team's offensive strategy and contributing in various capacities.
Hit: Jared Heston (LB) — Originally unranked. Outcome: Contributor. Heston's contributions on special teams and as a backup linebacker were noteworthy during his time with the team.
Hit: Kyle Salm (OT) — Originally unranked. Outcome: Contributor. Salm provided depth on the offensive line, contributing in situational plays throughout his college career.
Hit: Tevita Halaholo (OT) — Originally unranked. Outcome: Contributor. Halaholo's performance added depth to the offensive line, allowing for more flexibility in game plans.
Hit: Trey Williams (CB) — Originally unranked. Outcome: Contributor. Williams contributed on defense and special teams, helping to bolster the team's secondary depth.
Hit: Vince Keener (EDGE) — Originally unranked. Outcome: Contributor. Keener emerged as a rotational player on the defensive line, contributing to the team's overall defensive strategy.
Miss: Jeffrey Bediako (LB) — Originally ranked 9999. Outcome: Bust. Bediako was unable to make a significant impact during his time with the team, falling short of expectations.
Development Story
The 2009 recruiting class for Idaho displayed a notable trend in player development, particularly among unranked recruits. With a total of 17 recruits and no blue-chip players, expectations were low for this class initially ranked 116th. However, the S2S rerank of 56 indicates that the program was able to develop several players into significant contributors and starters.
The majority of the recruits, specifically those who were originally unranked, exceeded expectations by stepping into starting roles or contributing positively to the team's depth. For example, Brian Reader, Conrad Scheidt, and Jordan Johnson were able to develop into college starters, showcasing the program's ability to identify talent that may have been overlooked in the recruiting process.
Conversely, the only ranked recruit, Jeffrey Bediako, did not meet expectations, receiving a "Bust" outcome. This highlights a potential pattern where higher-ranked recruits may not always translate into on-field success, while unranked players can surprise with their performance and development.
Outcome Summary
Overall, the class outperformed expectations, particularly in the development of unranked players into contributors and starters. The S2S rerank improved significantly, reflecting the program's ability to cultivate talent effectively despite initial low rankings. The class's success in producing starters and contributors demonstrates a positive trend in recruitment and player development for Idaho.
In conclusion, this recruiting class serves as a reminder that success can often stem from overlooked talent, with unranked recruits notably exceeding expectations in their college careers.