It’s never easy defining sleepers. Is a sleeper a player who is ranked after a certain point or is it someone who isn’t ranked? An owner playing college fantasy football for the first time may consider someone like Iowa's Jewel Hampton or Alabama's Mark Ingram a sleeper. However, a veteran of many college fantasy leagues probably wouldn't consider Hampton or Ingram much of a sleeper. After missing most a good chunk of last year due to a shoulder injury, Tulane's Andre Anderson should see a huge jump in fantasy numbers. Is it fair to call him a sleeper? Probably not, but you get the picture. Defining sleepers isn't easy.

With that in mind, this list takes into account each fantasy owner has a different knowledge set when it comes to college football. Don’t take a sleeper as your first running back in 120 leagues, but consider taking these rushers as a RB3 or RB4, in hopes they can be a starting option this year.

2009 Sleeper Candidates

ACC

Josh Adams, Wake Forest - One year after nearly rushing for 1,000 yards, Adams was one of last season's disappointments. Preseason knee surgery seemed to hinder Adams throughout the year, as he notched only one 100-yard effort. The Demon Deacons have solid options outside of Adams in Brandon Pendergrass and Kevin Harris, along with an improving offensive line. Assuming Adams is 100 percent, he could surprise once again.

Anthony Allen, Georgia Tech - A crowded backfield awaits Allen in Atlanta. However, he scored 20 touchdowns in two years at Louisville and his nose for the goal-line should allow for plenty of playing time this year.

Jamelle Eugene, NC State - Considering Toney Baker has been hobbled by a knee injury the last two seasons, there's no guarantee he returns at 100 percent. If Baker is slowed at any point and Eugene is the featured back, he should work his way into fantasy consideration. Eugene has over 400 rushing yards in limited duty in back-to-back seasons.

Shaun Draughn, North Carolina - After the Greg Little experiment failed, the Tar Heels turned to a converted defensive back to jumpstart the rushing attack. Draughn's first career carries were last season, as he collected 866 yards and three scores. If Draughn can punch it in the endzone a few more times this season, his value should see a significant bump.

Desmond Scott, Duke - No Blue Devil running back has been over 500 yards since the 2003 season. Although Re'quan Boyette returns from a knee injury, it's going to be difficult to keep this talented freshman off the field. At five-foot-10 and 185 pounds, the freshman doesn't have a lot of bulk, but has plenty of moves and speed to make an impact in 2009.

Mikell Simpson, Virginia - With a new offensive system, it's up in the air as to what to expect from the Cavaliers. However, Simpson is the team's top proven playmaker and is a good fit for a spread offense. Expect to see 15-20 carries per game and it wouldn't be a surprise to see 40-50 catches this year.

Jermaine Thomas, Florida State - The Seminoles are still searching for a 1,000-yard rusher since Warrick Dunn finished his eligibility, but Thomas could be the answer. In limited duty, he rushed for 482 yards and three scores, while averaging seven yards a carry. With a solid offensive line returning, expect Thomas to threaten the 1,000-yard barrier in 2009.

Ryan Williams, Virginia Tech - Although Darren Evans is entrenched as the starter, don't count out Williams from making a splash this year.

Big East

Delone Carter, Syracuse - Can Carter find the form that pushed him to 713 yards and four scores in 2007? If so, he should be the workhorse for an Orange offense looking for steps in the right direction.

Mike Ford, South Florida - There's no question Ford has the potential to be a 1,000-yard back, but he has to stay healthy this season. The junior has 17 touchdowns in two seasons, but could approach 1,000 yards and 13 scores this year - if he stays healthy and the Bulls solidify the offensive line. Ford has been a relatively disappointing fantasy option so far, but don't let that scare you away in 2009.

Dion Lewis, Pittsburgh - Replacing LeSean McCoy isn't going to be easy, but coach Dave Wannstedt has recruited relatively well and there are some options going into this year. Lewis isn't very big, but emerged in spring practice as the starter. If Lewis can continue to separate from the pack, expect over 200 carries and 1,000 yards this year.

Jordan Todman/Andre Dixon, Connecticut - Just like fellow Big East foe Pittsburgh, the Huskies are replacing their best offensive weapon from last year. Not only do the Huskies have to replace Donald Brown, but they are breaking in a new offensive system, which is a no-huddle attack. Todman showcased potential last year, rushing for 296 yards and three scores on 47 carries. Dixon has more experience and rushed for over 800 yards in 2007. Whichever player wins the job is a legitimate week-to-week fantasy option.

Big Ten

Edwin Baker/Andre Anderson/Ashton Leggett/Caulton Ray, Michigan State - Someone's going to replace Javon Ringer, but is it a committee or can Baker (a true freshman) steal the spotlight?

Duane Bennett, Minnesota - The Golden Gophers are going back to a power running team and Bennett stands to benefit the most from the switch. A knee injury cut short his 2008 campaign, rushing for 140 yards and two scores in two games. Assuming Bennett is 100 percent and the offensive line opens up some holes, Bennett should crack 1,000 yards.

Jason Ford, Illinois - The Fighting Illini sorely missed Rashard Mendenhall last year, as quarterback Juice Williams ended up with the team lead in rushing yardage. Daniel Dufrene led the Illini running backs in terms of carries, but Ford led the team with eight touchdown runs. A strong spring by Ford propelled him into the lead for carries this fall.

Daniel Herron/Brandon Saine/Jamaal Berry, Ohio State - None of these backs are Chris Wells, but there's no shortage of talent in Columbus. Herron figures to the start the season, but don't count out Berry from making an impact. The incoming freshman has some legal issues to resolve, but ranked as the No. 33 player in the 2009 Athlon Consensus 100.

Stephen Simmons/Jeravin Matthews, Northwestern - Tyrell Sutton was a solid fantasy contributor over the last four seasons, and the winner of this battle should have immediate spot start value. Matthews, a converted receiver, pushed for playing time in the spring and this battle could go well into fall practice or work out as a split carry situation.

Jaycen Taylor, Purdue - Coming off a knee injury, there is no guarantee Taylor will be 100 percent to begin the 2009 season. However, if the senior doesn't suffer any setbacks and with an uncertain quarterback situation, the Boilermakers could lean on the rushing attack a little more this year. If Taylor doesn't pan out, keep an eye on backup Ralph Bolden.

Darius Willis, Indiana - With the dismissal of Kellen Lewis, the Hoosiers are desperately seeking new playmakers. Willis was a highly-touted recruit and after redshirting last year, should be ready to make an impact in 2009. The Hoosiers have not had a 1,000-yard rusher since Levron Williams topped that mark in 2001, and Willis could prove to be a real difference maker (and back that finally reaches the 1,000-yard mark) for this offense this year.

Big 12

Jay Finley, Baylor - Although Robert Griffin played a big role in the improvement of the Baylor offense, Finley's emergence was also key. The Bears have not had a 1,000-yard rusher since 2003, but this could be the year that drought ends. Finley closed the year with back-to-back 100-yard games and finished with just over 1,000 yards of total offense. Although the Bears have some concerns up front, look for Finley to be a solid flex or RB4 option in 120 leagues.

Cody Johnson/Chris Whaley, Texas - The Longhorns have to get improvement from the rushing attack and a handful of backs could see time. However, Johnson had a solid spring and appears to be the leader entering the fall. Whaley is an incoming freshman at six-foot-three, 235 pounds should see immediate playing time around the goal-line.

Mossis Madu, Oklahoma - It's hard to imagine three running backs from one team being weekly fantasy options but that's exactly what could happen at Oklahoma if Madu has a huge season. DeMarco Murray and Chris Brown will do most of their damage on the ground, while Madu figures to get into the mix as a receiver this year. Don't be surprised if Madu hits 40 catches and 500 yards this year, with potential to become an every week fantasy starter should Brown or Murray suffer an injury.

Christine Michael, Texas A&M - With Mike Goodson and Jorvorskie Lane no longer on the depth chart, there's plenty of room for Michael to come in and make an immediate impact. The Texas native ranked as the No. 35 prospect in the 2009 Athlon Consensus 100 and in addition to his value this year, is an excellent keeper pick.

Alexander Robinson, Iowa State - With a new spread offense, look for the Cyclones to score plenty of points this year.

Darrell Scott, Colorado - Is last year's top running back recruit ready to realize his potential?

Conference USA

Jamad Williams, Tulsa - Charles Clay may be getting all of the preseason fantasy hype at running back, but Williams is the one to watch. While Clay has been successful as a receiver, he's never carried the ball more than 11 times in a college game, while Williams has six games over 10 carries and compiled 153 yards on 31 carries against Tulane in 2007. Although Clay will catch a ton of passes, Williams should be the team's top rusher.

Jonathan Williams, East Carolina - Before his suspension last year, Williams was off to a solid start, rushing for 380 yards and five scores on 75 carries. Assuming he's back in good graces with the coaching staff, Williams should be the leading ballcarrier for the Pirates.

Independents

Alexander Teich, Navy - The Midshipmen always produce quality runners and with Eric Kettani and Shun White out of eligibility, somebody will step up in 2009.

CeDarius Williams, Army - Rich Ellerson's offense could surprise this year and Williams is coming off a strong spring practice. If the sophomore continues to hold onto one of the starting running back spots, look for a breakout fantasy season.

MAC

Alex Allen, Akron - A significant hip injury ended Allen's 2008 campaign, but the Zips will be counting on him to lead their ground attack this year. With Dennis Kennedy out of eligibility, the Zips lack a proven No. 1 option in the backfield. The Zips have a solid offensive line and if Allen is 100 percent, he could be a late round bargain. If Allen struggles early on, keep an eye on DeVoe Torrence.

Me'co Brown, Northern Illinois - The Huskies streak of 1,000-yard rushers was snapped last season, after no back rushed for more than 510 yards. Quarterback Chandler Harnish led the team in rushing yardage with 539, but the Huskies should see improvement from the running backs this year. Brown showcased potential, gaining 510 yards and two scores on 110 carries. If Brown holds off Justin Anderson and Chad Spann, he could begin another streak of 1,000-yard rushers in DeKalb.

Quincy Landingham, Miami, Ohio - Although most MAC teams love to spread it out and throw it around, the RedHawks are taking it to the ground. New coach Mike Haywood wants to establish the run and this Wisconsin transfer, previously a four star recruit by rivals.com, will be one to watch.

Mountain West

Asher Clark, Air Force - With Tim Jefferson battling academic issues in the spring, Clark got a shot at winning the starting quarterback spot. Assuming Jefferson is back this fall, Clark should slide back to running back. The sophomore is recovering from offseason knee surgery, but all indications point to a return by the season opener. Although the Falcons will use a handful of rushers, Clark should be able to muster 800 yards and seven scores.

James Wright, New Mexico - The Lobos hope to continue their streak of 1,000-yard rushers and Wright flashed potential in limited opportunities last year. However, does the sophomore fit new coach Mike Locksley's offense? If Wright isn't the answer, keep an eye on A.J. Butler.

Pac-10

Ryan Bass, Arizona State - There's plenty to like about Bass, but the offensive line has to improve for the sophomore to become a week-to-week fantasy option. The Sun Devils may also use more of a committee approach on the ground, but Bass is the one with the most upside in 2009.

LaMichael James, Oregon - There's no question LeGarrette Blount is the starter, but the Ducks hope James can take 5-10 carries away per game and the offense not miss a beat. With Jeremiah Johnson sharing such a large chunk of the carries last year, the Ducks will find someone who can spell Blount, along with experiencing some fantasy success themselves.

Joe McKnight, USC - In terms of name value, McKnight isn't exactly a fantasy sleeper. In fact, he's probably a household name. However, the production hasn't matched the hype, largely due to a loaded backfield. However, this could be the year he breaks out with a monster season and tops 1,000 yards with eight scores. McKnight is too talented to not risk a late round draft pick on his potential.

James Montgomery, Washington State - It's impossible for the Cougars to be any worse on offense, and Montgomery should be one of the main reasons why they are better on this side of the ball in 2009. The California transfer will team with Dwight Tardy to form a solid one-two punch in Pullman, assuming the offensive line opens up running lanes. If the Cougars suffer multiple blowouts like they did last year, don't expect much fantasy value from Montgomery. However, the Cougars have a couple of favorable matchups in the non-conference slate, and Montgomery has the talent to be a solid player for an offense starving for playmakers.

Chris Polk, Washington - Polk had a rough debut last year, rushing for 33 yards in two games and suffering a season-ending shoulder injury. With Jake Locker back at quarterback, the Huskies should be much better on offense this year, and Polk should provide a much-needed spark on the ground.

Christian Ramirez, UCLA - The Bruins can't be as bad as they were on the ground last year...can they?

SEC

Brandon Bolden, Ole Miss - With no Darren McFadden or Felix Jones to lean on, Houston Nutt's ground attack didn't quite match the rushing totals his offense at Arkansas posted. Despite the return of quarterback Jevan Snead, the Rebels need to get improvement from this area. Bolden finished the year on a high note, rushing for 101 yards and one score in the Cotton Bowl win over Texas Tech. If the Rebels effectively replace left tackle Michael Oher, keep an eye on Bolden or sophomore Enrique Davis.

Jeff Demps/Chris Rainey, Florida - With the loss of Percy Harvin, someone will step up and claim the 660 yards and 10 scores he accumulated on the ground. The winner of the Percy role will have immediate fantasy value, but is it freshman receiver Andre Debose or will the Gators turn more to Demps or Rainey?

Mario Fannin, Auburn - Gus Malzahn brings his high-scoring offense to the Plains, one year after a failed spread attack by Tony Franklin. Fannin hasn't fully reached his potential, but this could be the year he breaks out. Malzahn will use Fannin in an all-around role and the junior should see plenty of touches in the passing and rushing game. Ben Tate is the go-to back, but this has the makings of a split carry situation.

Jarvis Giles, South Carolina - The Gamecocks cannot afford a repeat of last season, when they finished a dismal 112th in the nation in rushing offense. Giles is a promising true freshman, but has to compete for time with Eric Baker and Brian Maddox, along with getting improved play from the offensive line. Giles should be one of the top freshman contributors this season and a solid keeper league option.

Montario Hardesty/Bryce Brown, Tennessee - With an uncertain quarterback situation, the Volunteers can lean on the Hardesty-Brown combination to keep the chains moving this fall. Brown ranked higher in our first release of rankings, but it wouldn't be a surprise to see a split in carries or for Hardesty to emerge as the clear No. 1 option.

Trent Richardson, Alabama - Whether it's Mark Ingram or Richardson, a player is going to have a huge year out of the backfield for the Crimson Tide.

Sun Belt

Darriet Perry, Florida International - Perry showcased some ability late last year, rushing for 115 yards and two scores against Florida Atlantic. However, the sophomore has only two games of experience in his career and there's not much of a track record to go upon. With matchups against Alabama and Rutgers early, Perry will struggle early on, but he's one to watch when conference play hits.

Undrea Sails/Robert Walker, UL Lafayette - The Ragin' Cajuns will miss Tyrell Fenroy, but with the Sun Belt's top offensive line returning, someone could step in and post huge fantasy numbers. Sails led the team with 61 yards in the spring game, but could face a challenge from incoming freshman Robert Walker. Whichever player wins the job is worth drafting in the late rounds of upcoming drafts.

WAC

Lamon Muldrow, San Jose State - With Yonus Davis out of eligibility, the Spartans are turning to Patrick Perry and Muldrow to lead their ground attack in 2009. Muldrow is a junior college recruit that drew some interest from the Pac-10 and Mountain West before heading to San Jose. With four starters back along the offensive line, expect the Spartans to have a much-improved rushing attack and Muldrow could be a nice late-round pick for any owner in a 120 league.

Robert Turbin, Utah State - With Turbin and quarterback Diondre Borel leading the way, the Aggies could surprise in the WAC. Turbin posted only three games of double digit carries, but scored four touchdowns in the final two weeks of the season. The sophomore will have to contend with junior college transfer Michael Smith for playing time, but if Turbin is the starter, he should significantly boost his numbers.

2009 draft kit

Top 200
Quarterback rankings
Running back rankings
Wide receiver rankings
Tight end rankings
Kicker rankings
Team defense rankings
2009 Very early mock draft

Running Back Profiles

ACC
Big Ten
Big East
Pac-10
SEC
Non-BCS Pt. 1
Non-BCS Pt. 2

Quarterback Profiles

ACC
Big East
Big Ten
Big 12
Pac-10
SEC
Non-BCS Part 1
Non-BCS Part 2
Quarterback Sleepers

Follow us at Twitter: AthlonFantasy

Check out u-sports.athlonsports.com for more information on college fantasy leagues for the 2009 season.

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