ReRank Breakdown: 2016 Idaho Recruiting Class

The 2016 recruiting class for Idaho revealed mixed outcomes when comparing actual performance to original recruiting expectations. The class, which was originally ranked 126th and re-ranked to 116th, showcased a notable lack of blue-chip prospects, indicating a focus on lower-ranked recruits. Despite this, the program did find success with three players—Alfonso Onunwor, Charles Akanno, and Noah Johnson—who all exceeded expectations, achieving either All Conference status or becoming college starters.
Conversely, the class did experience notable misses, particularly with David Imola and Jaden Gardner, who both ranked within the lower tier of prospects but ultimately did not produce satisfactory outcomes. This discrepancy highlights a potential area for improvement in identifying and developing talent that meets or exceeds initial projections. The outcomes for unranked players like D.J. Olmstead and Chris Hunter were neutral, contributing as contributors but without specific expectations attached to their recruitment.

Overall, the 2016 recruiting class for Idaho met expectations, featuring a mix of contributions and standout performances from lower-ranked recruits. The S2S rerank moving from 126 to 116 reflects a positive adjustment based on the performance of the recruits, particularly those who turned into impactful players. The class's success was primarily driven by the unexpected achievements of several players, which suggests that Idaho's recruiting strategy could benefit from a continued focus on player development regardless of initial rankings.
Takeaway: The 2016 class demonstrated the potential for lower-ranked recruits to outperform expectations, emphasizing the importance of development in the recruiting process.