SDS’ top 25 newcomers of 2013: No. 17 Miss State’s Fred Ross

Published March 1, 2013 - 8:30am

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SDS has already looked at the top 25 players for 2012, and now with National Signing Day in the books, let’s look at the top newcomers in the SEC for 2013. Predicting the top newcomers is often very tough, and these aren’t just merely rankings of the top players. We’re going to look at what type of impact they’ll make and where they’ll make it.

No. 17 – Fred Ross, WR, Mississippi State

From: Tyler, TX (John Tyler)
Size: 6-2, 185 pounds

The Skinny: It’s nice to play in the SEC West and be able to extend an offer to the top player who had been committed to Oklahoma State for nearly a year and get him to bolt to the SEC a day before signing day. That’s Fred Ross’ story, and the reality of the SEC brand, combined with immediate needs at the position. The 6-2, 185-pound consensus four-star won’t arrive until the summer, but MSU players, coaches and fans are already awaiting his arrival. Not only does Ross provide immediate depth, but he’s an impact player. However, the bigger picture is encouraging that MSU’s brand as a whole is expanding into Texas. And the Bulldogs just happen to open up the 2013 season in Houston against Oklahoma State, too. That game will be personal for Ross.

What MSU is getting: The Bulldogs are getting a top 30 prospect from the always-talented state of Texas, as well as a top 25 caliber receiver. With the trio of Chad Bumphis, Chris Smith and Arcedo Clark having graduated, Ross could emerge as a first-week starter. He’ll compete with last year’s backups Robert Johnson, Joe Morrow and Jameon Lewis for playing time. Ross excels with his taller frame on deep post patterns and going across the middle on quick slants. He reminds me of former Florida receiver Louis Murphy, who currently plays for the Panthers. He has plus speed once he gets to top speed, but he’s great on deep routes and can go up and make the big catch. Ross is a natural fluid receiver and will work into the rotation in just his freshman season.