Loyola defensive midfielder Scott Ratliff

( Loyola University Athletics / March 21, 2012 )

Scott Ratliff, defensive midfielder, Loyola (11-0)

Loyola is undefeated for a variety of reasons. The Greyhounds win the possession war and create turnovers. They are well-coached by Charley Toomey. When you watch them play, Scott Ratliff jumps off the screen. The junior from Marietta, Ga., has 44 ground balls.

"He has an incredible motor and a versatile style," says ESPN analyst Mark Dixon, a former Johns Hopkins midfielder. "He gives Loyola a chance to win faceoffs and can do everything between the lines to get his team possession. He leads their transition game and can undress a midfielder as a lockdown cover" with 24 caused turnovers.