The anticipation, the potential, the electrifying emergence of new superstars – there’s nothing quite like the thrill of watching freshmen burst onto the scene in college football. The 2024 season was no exception, as a dazzling array of first-year phenoms left their mark on the sport. From record-breaking receivers to game-changing defenders, these young talents have fans dreaming of championships to come.
Offensive Freshman Standouts
Leading the charge on offense was none other than Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith. The 6-foot-3 receiver torched Tennessee for 103 yards and 2 touchdowns in the Buckeyes’ 42-17 CFP thrashing, en route to becoming the first OSU freshman to eclipse 1,000 yards. His rare blend of size, speed, and dynamic playmaking ability has NFL scouts salivating.
Under center, Florida’s DJ Lagway emerged as a program savior. The dual-threat quarterback threw for 1,915 yards and 12 touchdowns, leading the Gators to a 5-1 record as a starter. His electric playmaking likely saved coach Billy Napier’s job after a disastrous 41-17 loss to Miami to open the season.
Other offensive stars included:
- Ryan Williams, the teenage sensation who led Alabama in receiving
- Fluff Bothwell, the unheralded South Alabama back who ran for 832 yards and 13 TDs
- Isaac Brown, Louisville’s speedy scatback who eclipsed 1,000 yards rushing
Mighty Young Defenders
On the defensive side, South Carolina end Dylan Stewart lived up to his five-star billing. The 6’6″ pass rusher notched 6.5 sacks and 3 forced fumbles, forming a fearsome duo with fellow freshman Kyle Kennard.
Stewart’s blend of positional size, tools, and early production portends a high future NFL ceiling.
– Tom Luginbill, ESPN
Not to be outdone, Texas’ Colin Simmons led all freshmen with a whopping 8 sacks. The edge rushing specialist was a one-man wrecking crew, adding 39 tackles, 12.5 TFLs and 3 forced fumbles. His elite speed and burst were on full display in the Longhorns’ CFP win over Clemson.
The secondary also featured some dazzling debut seasons:
- Koi Perich had 5 interceptions in his first 5 games for Minnesota
- Leonard Moore thrived after being thrust into Notre Dame’s starting lineup
- KJ Bolden looks like the next great Georgia defensive back
Breakout Seasons in Context
2024 showcased exceptional freshmen impact across all levels:
| Category | Top Player | Notables |
| Quarterback | DJ Lagway | Rescued Florida’s season |
| Running Back | Ahmad Hardy | 1,351 yards to lead Group of 5 |
| Receiver | Jeremiah Smith | 1st OSU FR to surpass 1,000 yds |
| Defensive End | Colin Simmons | Led all FRs with 8 sacks |
| Linebacker | Sammy Brown | 80 tackles, 5 sacks for Clemson |
While early success doesn’t guarantee stardom, it’s impossible not to get excited about this freshman class. With rare physical gifts, advanced football IQ, and competitive fire, they have all the ingredients to become the sport’s next generation of superstars.
The future of college football looks brighter than ever. And if the 2024 freshman class is any indication, fans are in for a dazzling display of talent in the years to come. Get your popcorn ready – this group is just getting started.
