Our countdown of the Pac-12's top 25 players in 2012 continues.
Most of this looks back, but, of course, there also is a good dose of projecting forward. A lot of good players, as it happens every year, won't make the preseason list. It is in their hands to make the postseason list.
You can review our 2011 postseason top 25 here.
19. Cameron Marshall, RB, Arizona State
2011 numbers: Though ASU had a higher pass-run ratio last year, Marshall still carried the ball 230 times, running for 1,050 yards. He matched LaMichael James for most rushing touchdowns in the conference with 18 while averaging 4.6 yards per carry. He also caught 24 balls (second among Pac-12 running backs) for 188 yards.
2011 postseason ranking: Unranked
Making the case for Marshall: As we continue to venture deeper into this list, making the case for guys becomes much easier. Marshall made the case for himself last season when he was one of seven Pac-12 backs to rush for more than 1,000 yards. And he did it in a spread offense that was pass first. With Todd Graham's new run-first, up-tempo spread attack, we could see Marshall's numbers skyrocket. It's very conceivable that when we publish the postseason top 25, Marshall could find himself in the top 10. At 5-foot-11, 223-pounds, he's proven to be durable enough to play through injury -- as was the case last season. He's an NFL prototype and should be the centerpiece of the Sun Devils' offense this season. The scheme will be more downhill-centric, which should accentuate Marshall's talents and frame. His pass-protection skills are sound -- considering the offense he played in previously -- as are his hands out of the backfield. Marshall is, without a doubt, one of the most complete backs in the conference.
No. 20: Dion Bailey, LB, USC
No. 21: Shayne Skov, LB, Stanford
No. 22: Curtis McNeal, RB, USC
No. 23: Austin Seferian-Jenkins, TE, Washington
No. 24: Isi Sofele, RB, California
