Conference call.

Dewayne White, Louisville

Coach John L. Smith didn't know what impact Dewayne White would have at Louisville, but Smith knew he had to have him.

White's stepfather was shot and paralyzed when White was 9; his mother died of cancer when he was 16. A high school star in Alabama, White watched state schools back off his recruitment after he blew out his knee as a senior. "We knew he was a unique individual" Smith says.

How's this for unique: In two years, White has 27 sacks and 41 tackles for losses. A high school running back, he has bulked up and busted out as one of the nation's top speed rushers. He is the foundation of Smith's commitment to defense and a big reason the Cardinals have high hopes this season.

His speed and athleticism off the edge force foes to direct game plans away from his side of the field. His play creates opportunities for the linemen, and the overall pass rush has been a significant factor in Louisville's stingy secondary play. More than anything, White is a prime example of Smith's philosophy of putting the best athletes on that side of the ball and adjusting the scheme to their styles. That's one reason the Cards have one of the nation's most athletic and aggressive defenses.

Cory Redding, Texas

Cory Redding is 6-5,270 pounds and runs a 4.8 40. Those numbers make NFL scouts drool. These, however, perplex his coaches at Texas: In three years, he has 13 ...