The top 50 players of 2016 (40-31)

50-41 | 40-31 | 30-21 | 20-11 | 10-1

The college football season kicks off for real in just a few days, and all week theScore is counting down the top 50 players in the game.

We continue with Nos. 40 through 31, and there are a slew of players who may not be prominent names nationally but could be big-time award winners at season's end.

40. Wayne Gallman - RB, Clemson

Clemson's Wayne Gallman remains under the radar, with the likes of Leonard Fournette, Dalvin Cook, and Christian McCaffrey on the minds of most. Gallman followed up his freshman season in 2014 by rushing for 1,527 yards and 13 touchdowns en route to an ACC title and national title appearance. The junior is a north and south runner, who is a tremendous pass blocker. In 181 attempts, he didn't give up a sack or a hit.

39. Seth Russell - QB, Baylor

A lot has changed for Baylor's Seth Russell after a season-ending neck injury against Iowa State last October. What won't change is for Russell to lead the Bears after many players declared for the draft, Jarrett Stidham transferred and Art Briles was fired. The quarterback still has receiver KD Cannon to rely on. Before his injury, the 6-foot-3, 220-pound signal-caller racked up 2,104 yards, 29 touchdowns, and just six interceptions in seven games.

38. Budda Baker - DB, Washington

Washington had the Pac-12's best defense last season, giving up less than 20 points per game. One of the reasons for the Huskies' stellar defence was the play of Budda Baker, who tallied 49 tackles, two interceptions, and seven pass deflections. Baker, who added 18 pounds in the offseason, could also be called upon to play receiver for Chris Peterson's offense.

37. Tre'Davious White - DB, LSU

LSU has been nicknamed "DBU" in recent years, producing some quality NFL talent defenders. Tre'Davious White could be the next Tiger to join that illustrious list. White is quick, shifty, has a great nose for the ball, and his work ethic led the coaching staff to give the cornerback the coveted No. 18 jersey last season. Entering his fourth season, the senior has racked up 126 tackles and four interceptions. White also returns kicks and has returned two to the house in the last two seasons.

36. Jarrad Davis - LB, Florida

Last year was a breakout season for Florida's Jarrad Davis, recording 94 tackles, 11 for a loss, an interception, and a forced fumble. In 2016, Davis will help lead Jim McElwain's Gator squad both on and off the field. Davis has great read and react skills, speed, and even better closing speed. All of these qualities not only make him a Butkus Award favorite and a player that will be playing on Sundays next year.

35. Brad Kaaya - QB, Miami

Miami has struggled in recent years, but there's a feeling that "the U" is back, especially with alum Mark Richt at the helm. Richt will create stability, especially for quarterback Brad Kaaya. Kaaya has the arm and the ability to succeed, but took a slight step backwards last season, throwing 15 touchdowns, compared to his 26 the year earlier. Richt's offense will only help Kaaya this season, especially protecting his quarterback and give him the poise that has been lacking. If the Hurricanes are back, Kaaya will be the man to get them there.

34. Saquon Barkley - RB, Penn State

As a freshman, Penn State's Saquon Barkley had an incredible season, averaging 5.9 yards a carry, scoring seven touchdowns, and rushed for over a 100 yards five times. Barkley is expected to not only exceed his 2015 campaign but become a potential Heisman Trophy candidate after having a full offseason in the gym and with the program.

33. Pat Elflein - OL, Ohio State

Ohio State lost a number of key players to the NFL Draft last year and Pat Elflein could've been one of those called. Elflein, however, decided to return and his coach is pretty content that he's playing for the Buckeyes in 2016. After starting at guard the last two years, the fifth-year senior will move to center and the move will help his coach, who'll have a young offensive line.

32. Jamal Adams - S, LSU

LSU's Jamal Adams may remind you of another gifted Tigers safety, Tyrann Mathieu. Adams possesses the ability to always find himself around the ball and he lets opponents know that with his confidence. The junior has the talent to locate the ball and adjust with his body and is physical to match up against tight ends. Adams has 129 tackles, 10.5 sacks, and four interceptions in his career and could be an All-American this season.

31. Derek Barnett - DE, Tennessee

Tennessee's Derek Barnett is one of the most underrated players, not only in the SEC but the nation. Barnett isn't necessarily the biggest or the quickest off the ball, but as seen above, is slick enough to get around defenders and quick to the ball. Although the junior started slow last season, once Barnett got going, he was a beast for the Volunteers, recording 69 tackles and 10 sacks last season. The Vols believe they are a force to be reckoned with and are the favorites to challenge for the SEC East. If true, Barnett will be a major factor in the team's success.