True freshmen who stood out in Week 4 in college football
The fourth week of college football saw a number of true freshmen continue to make their mark on a national scale. As the season rolls on, we’re beginning to see more and more players from the 2021 recruiting cycle make their way onto the field and play key roles for their respective teams.
Several top performers were included in On3’s Preseason True Freshman All-America Team, which was released before Week 1.
QB Kyle McCord, Ohio State
McCord got the start against Akron as starter C.J. Stroud is dealing with a lingering shoulder injury. McCord, a freshman from Philadelphia, wasn’t required to do a ton of heavy lifting against the Zips, but still made some nice throws throughout the day. He was 13-of-18 for 319 yards and two touchdowns, with one interception.
One of his best throws came on a touchdown pass to Jaxson Smith-Njigba in the second quarter.
McCord’s considerable downfield arm strength was among the reasons he was a five-star prospect for On3. His fellow freshman, running back TreVeyon Henderson, certainly has a strong case to be included here, as well. Henderson is likely to be a regular top performer throughout the rest of the season. He rushed for 93 yards and two scores on just eight carries.
WR Xavier Worthy, Texas
We mentioned the emergence of Worthy in Texas’ offense last week. That ascent continued in a big way Saturday. Worthy, a five-star prospect from Fresno, Calif., had a huge day against Texas Tech, with five catches for 100 yards and three touchdowns.
If the past two weeks are any indication, Texas may have found something in quarterback Casey Thompson along with Worthy emerging as the top pass-catching threat. The pair connected on a number of big plays. Worthy showcased his speed, ball-tracking and ability after the catch.
WR Keagan Johnson, Iowa
Johnson was one of two true freshmen to start on offense for the Hawkeyes, along with guard Connor Colby. Starting as a true freshman for Iowa is an achievement in itself, given how the program often looks to redshirt much of its freshman class on an annual basis. Both On300 prospects look to have bright futures in Iowa City.
We saw Johnson make an immediate impact against Colorado State, as the freshman scored the game’s first points on a vertical route. Johnson, from Bellevue (Neb.) West, finished with two catches for 92 yards and the touchdown.
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TE Brock Bowers, Georgia
He has become a weekly regular here. Bowers has emerged as Georgia’s top receiving target, and he’s already among the best tight ends nationally. Mind you, this is just a few games into his college career. Bowers, from Napa, Calif., kept his hot streak going in Georgia’s rout of an overmatched Vanderbilt team. Bowers scored to end Georgia’s first two drives – one on a 12-yard run and again on a 25-yard reception. He added a 29-yard touchdown catch in the third quarter for good measure.
OT Reuben Fatheree, Texas A&M
He made his first start as the Aggies faced off against Arkansas in one of the day’s most anticipated matchups. Fatheree held up well on the edge, particularly in pass protection. The 6-foot-8, 320-pounder did not give up a sack, hit or hurry while facing a tough Arkansas front. He also graded out as Texas A&M’s top offensive lineman on the day, according to Pro Football Focus metrics.
Fatheree has shown some high-end potential dating to his days as a high school prospect. Fatheree, from Richmond (Texas) Foster, was ranked as the No. 53 prospect in the On300 and was among On3’s Preaseason True Freshman All-Americans.
EDGE Demeioun Robinson, Maryland
Maryland dipped deeper into its defensive rotation in the second half against Kent State, which led to some opportunities for Robinson. The former top-50 prospect had four tackles, one sack and 1.5 tackles for loss. He also added two quarterback hurries in 13 pass rush attempts.
Robinson was a top pass rusher coming out of Gaithersburg (Md.) Quince Orchard and figures to see his presence on the edge increase for the Terps.