Grading the classes: Idaho

This week, OBNUG will be grading the recruiting classes for each WAC team. Our research may be spotty, but as you can see from the final result, there is no questioning our loyalty.



Idaho

To understand the recruiting strategy of the Idaho Vandals is to believe that winning occurs through osmosis and not, as many believe, through hard work.

“I like the fact that every guy on this list … comes from a winning program,” Akey said. “All but one were in postseason play.”

One such winner is DE Hank Bryant, a recruit from Tumwater High School.

“I’m sure what they liked is his athleticism and agility,” Tumwater coach Sid Otton said. “He has a great first two or three steps.”

Actually, coach, what they liked was the fact that he played on a winning team. Having a great first step is just a coincidence.

Eschewing talent and athleticism, the Vandals completed their recruiting class with 19 high school seniors and two junior college transfers. All of them will have a chance to play right away considering that the Vandals are not all that good.

If help arrived anywhere, it was along the defensive line. Big bodies like Bryant and Brad Marboe, the lone Idaho product in the class, should make a difference along the defensive front. And yes, we consider garbage time sacks during a 35-10 loss as a difference.

Compared to some other teams in the WAC, Idaho's class looks pretty good. Of course, that's not saying much.

Scout.com rank: 81
Rivals.com rank: 101
OBNUG grade: F

Akey fields second recruiting class [Spokesman-Review]