6. Kayvon Thibodeaux and Noah Sewell (Oregon)
If Mario Cristobal can further prove himself on the sidelines and with in-game management, the Oregon Ducks have the opportunity to slide in and take a firm hold of the Pac-12 for years to come. The head coach has been recruiting at arguably the highest level in the history of the program and now it’s about maximizing the talent on the roster. And that undoubtedly includes defensive end Kayvon Thibodeaux and linebacker Noah Sewell.
The two members of the front seven in Eugene joined the program as highly touted recruits and with big expectations. After two seasons for Thibodeaux and just one COVID-shortened year for Sewell (the brother of former Oregon offensive tackle Penei Sewell), they have delivered on their promise.
Thibodeaux only managed only three sacks in his sophomore season last year (though that’s solid given that they only played in a handful of games) but showed his ability to create problems with 9.5 tackles for loss. His versatility off the edge makes him a potential No. 1 overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft.
Sewell is no slouch in his own right as he arrived with the Ducks and became an instant-impact player. He was the Pac-12 Freshman of the Year and led his team in tackles in his first season, showing what type of special player who should only get better Oregon has.
Leading a front seven that should be among college football’s best, Thibodeaux and Sewell should be the type of tandem that keeps opposing offensive coordinators up at night.