ESPN College Football Recruiting

Even though the Southwestern states of Arizona and New Mexico do not have an abundance of football talent in the 2010 recruiting class, there is a solid group of athletes who are gaining national recognition. However, there is no doubt that the overall talent level is not as strong as in 2009. Last year there were one five-star, four four-star and 11 three-star athletes compared with no five-stars, one four-star and 10 three-star prospects this year.

Like in 2009, the two best players line up on the defensive side of the football, but this year they are safeties rather than defensive ends. Despite the strength of the safety position in 2010, nine of the top 20 players are offensive linemen along with a tight end. New Mexico may be the Land of Enchantment, but not on the gridiron. Only one of the top 20 players, Zach Daugherty (Las Cruces, N.M./Onate), is from New Mexico while the other 19 hail from the Grand Canyon State.

For a look at the state's top player, a name to remember who might not be the highest-rated prospect and which programs are doing the best job of recruiting in Arizona and New Mexico this year, become an ESPN Insider.

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