CBS Sports writer Brad Crawford released a list of the 12 top freshmen to watch in the SEC heading into the new season on Monday. In a graphic he posted to social media on Monday, Crawford specifically mentioned 5 players, as follows:
- Faizon Brandon, Tennessee QB
- Julian Walker, South Carolina Edge
- Jermaine Bishop, Texas WR
- Deuce Geralds, LSU DL
- EJ Crowell, Alabama RB
In addition, Crawford also mentioned LSU DL Lamar Brown, Tennessee WR Ty Keys, South Carolina OL Darius Gray, Georgia OL Zykie Helton, Alabama WR Cederian Morgan, Georgia TE Kaiden Prothro and Auburn LB Jaquez Wilkes.
Notably, this list omits Vanderbilt quarterback Jared Curtis, a 5-star talent who is set to start for the Commodores as Clark Lea’s squad looks to continue its momentum from a 10-win season.
From Crawford’s list, Brandon and Crowell stand out. Let’s start with the Tennessee quarterback, who is in a QB battle with George MacIntyre for the starting job. Brandon is a dual-threat prospect and has an impressive arm, but like all freshman quarterbacks will be juggling a lot entering a 9-game SEC schedule.
Crawford’s explanation for leaving Curtis off and Brandon on the list boils down to Vanderbilt facing a tougher schedule — especially on the road. While Vanderbilt has to play at Georgia, Auburn and Florida as the visitors, Tennessee’s toughest road contest is at Texas A&M, followed by South Carolina, Arkansas, Vanderbilt and Georgia Tech.
Crowell — a former 5-star prospect — dealt with some injury issues during the spring but remains a candidate to immediately contribute for an Crimson Tide squad whose run game cannot possibly be worse than last year’s woeful 104 yards per game.
…right, Alabama?
A struggling offensive line was the catalyst for Alabama’s second-to-last mark in the SEC, and the Crimson Tide made some adjustments through the transfer portal. Whether that helps alleviate the problem remains to be seen. While Crowell can’t control his offensive line, he’s the most talented back in the room with a physical style that should earn a role from Day 1 — so long as he can stay healthy.
Ethan Stone is a Tennessee graduate and loves all things college football and college basketball. Firm believer in fouling while up 3.
