Big Three hold the edge for Briggs

There is no question that the safest, most accurate, predictor as to whether or not a high school prospect will go on to be a below average, average, above average or elite college football player is the number of stars next to his name.

However, as is the case in each cycle, don't get too caught up in a star rating early in the process.

They can, will and do change.

There have been players who start out as five-stars who see their stock fall precipitously – while on the other hand, there are quite a few instances where a prospect who was rated three-stars in the spring, ended up as a five-star when it was all said and done.

At this time of the year, one of the safest barometers to use when gauging a prospect's value and future ranking is his offer list and which programs are visiting him.

While Kissimmee (Fla.) Gateway defensive lineman Dennis Briggs may only be a 5.6 rated three-star, coaches from all over the country are evaluating and offering him this spring.

Not only is he highly sought after by college coaches, but by teammates as well - as they lean on him to help lead the team.