ESPN: Top 10 Most Improved Players includes Rudy Carpenter

Bruce Feldman released a list of the 10 most improved players in college football this season. At #9 on that list is a familiar name.

From the Worldwide Leader:

9. Rudy Carpenter, Arizona State, QB: The arrival of Dennis Erickson and his well-worn crew of assistants has meshed nicely for Carpenter to have a big bounce-back year. In 2006, Carpenter's stats were OK, as he completed 55 percent of his passes with 23 TDs and 14 picks. This season, the accurate QB from California has regained his 2005 form, completing 65 percent of his passes for 17 TDs and 1,949 yards with 7 INTs. Carpenter's improved decision-making and command of the offense has enabled ASU to lead the Pac-10 in red-zone offense with 31 scores in 34 trips (91 percent).

Hopefully Carpenter can continue that efficiency even with a thumb injury. Jeff Metcalfe of the Arizona Republic is reporting that Rudy wore a brace on his hand to the presser today. Nothing is going to stop him from playing in a game of this magnitude. As long as he's not underthrowing receivers like other Pac-10 QB's Nate Longshore and Mark Sanchez did last week, this team should have every chance to come away from Autzen Stadium with a W.

--

Update #1: Carpenter and Dixon have both shown up on the Davey O'Brien Award semifinalist list for best quarterback in the nation. Last year's winner was Troy Smith of The Ohio State University.