We're down to the dandy dozen in our countdown of the Big East's top players from the 2010 season, based on last year's performance and impact ...

No. 12

Doug Hogue, LB, Syracuse, Sr.

Preseason rank: Not ranked

2010 numbers: Collected 95 tackles, including 10.5 for loss and three sacks, plus two interceptions, a forced fumble and a blocked kick.

Making the case for Hogue: Teaming with Derrell Smith, Hogue was part of arguably the top linebacking duo in the Big East. While Smith manned the middle, Hogue made a ton of plays from his weakside linebacker position.

Hogue made the All-Big East first team and was named the national defensive player of the week by multiple outlets following his dominating performance in the upset at West Virginia, when he had 10 tackles and grabbed a pair of interceptions. A former running back like Smith, Hogue's speed made him a force in space and a vital cog in defensive coordinator Scott Shafer's scheme. He put up solid numbers at the NFL combine and should be looking at a pro career.

Previously

No. 25: Zach Hurd, OG, Connecticut

No. 24: Dave Teggart, K, Connecticut

No. 23: Derrell Smith, LB, Syracuse

No. 22: J.T. Thomas, LB, West Virginia

No. 21: Johnny Patrick, CB, Louisville

No. 20: Dion Lewis, RB, Pittsburgh

No. 19: Tavon Austin, WR, West Virginia

No. 18: Isaiah Pead, RB, Cincinnati

No. 17: Kendall Reyes, DL, Connecticut

No. 16: Jason Pinkston, OT, Pittsburgh

No. 15: Jon Baldwin, WR, Pittsburgh

No. 14: Robert Sands, S, West Virginia

No. 13: Brandon Lindsey, DE, Pittsburgh