The college football season begins on Sept. 2 for 12 of the 13 FBS teams in the state of Texas. The lone exception in the Lone Star State is UTEP, which face Jacksonville State in Week 0 to begin Conference USA play.
As we approach the start of another season, we’ll countdown the 50-most important players in college football. We’ll go one-by-one until Sept. 1 as we enter the top 20.
Previous rankings: 50-41 | 40-31 | 30-21
The college football season begins on Sept. 2 for 12 of the 13 FBS teams in the state of Texas. The lone exception in the Lone Star State is UTEP, which face Jacksonville State in Week 0 to begin Conference USA play.
As we approach the start of another season, we’ll countdown the 50-most important players in college football. We’ll go one-by-one until Sept. 1 as we enter the top 20.
No. 18: HOUSTON DE NELSON CEASER
The History
Ceasar emerged as a potential pass rushing force as a sophomore in 2022. The former four-star recruit nearby Fort Bend Ridge Point didn’t enjoy instant success as a Cougar. He waited his turn in 2019 and 2020 before earning playing time as an interior defensive lineman in 2021. He started 11 times last year at defensive end, finishing the season with four sacks and 10 tackles for loss. He contributed a tackle for loss in nine of the 13 games in 2022. Ceaser’s 11-yard fumble return for a touchdown against Rice sealed the win over the Owls.
The Importance
Doug Belk’s defenses at Houston at their best when the opposing quarterback is under duress. The Third Ward Defense took a step back as a unit last year because of youth and injuries. The Cougars could return to their 2021 form if players such as Ceaser take the next step. If the junior can evolve from a player who shows flashes into a consistent force, Sack Ave. is back in business.
The Outlook
The first year in the Big 12 is sure to be a bumpy road for the Cougars. They need consistency from their top-line players to survive the adversity awaiting. Ceaser is one of those players who could make the leap from good to great, and by doing so, help Houston surprise Big 12 onlookers in the process. An injection of talent through the transfer portal and lower expectations might be exactly what Houston needs to overperform in 2023. The team has no shot to compete without above-average defensive line play and the staff believes Ceaser is ready.
This article is available to our Digital Subscribers.
Click "Subscribe Now" to see a list of subscription offers.
Already a Subscriber? Sign In to access this content.
Don't Miss Any Exclusive Coverage!