ESPN lists each Top 25 SEC team’s top-performing true freshman
By Cody McClure
Published:
ESPN released an article on Wednesday afternoon looking at the top true freshmen on each team in the Top 25.
It detailed how those young players have contributed on some of the nation’s best teams.
We’ll take a look at the SEC guys:
No. 1 Georgia — QB Jake Fromm
What ESPN had to say:
Three months ago, not many people believed that Fromm would actually challenge Jacob Eason to be Georgia’s starting quarterback. Then Eason went down with an injury and Fromm wouldn’t give up the job, throwing 13 touchdowns to just four interceptions, while leading the Bulldogs to an undefeated record. — Alex Scarborough
No. 2 Alabama — WR Henry Ruggs III
What ESPN had to say:
He’s not a starter, but Ruggs is making the most of his opportunities. The native of Montgomery, Alabama, has five catches, a team-high five touchdowns and 112 yards.– Scarborough
No. 14 Auburn — LB Big Kat Bryant
What ESPN had to say:
The Tigers’ defense hasn’t needed much help this season, but Bryant has given them a boost off the bench. The rookie also known as Markaviest Bryant — he’s officially listed as Big Kat — has appeared in seven games, recovered a fumble and racked up 2.5 tackles for loss. — Scarborough
No. 16 Mississippi State — LB Willie Gay Jr.
What ESPN had to say:
Gay was a star in Mississippi State’s own backyard of Starkville in high school, and he’s quickly becoming one in the SEC. The rookie came up with a key stop against Kentucky two weeks ago and has appeared in every game this season, racking up 11 tackles and one sack in a reserve role. — Scarborough
No. 19 LSU — Three offensive linemen
What ESPN had to say:
In Baton Rouge, you can take your pick on the offensive line: Ed Ingram, Austin Deculus and Saahdiq Charles. The three true freshmen have played a pivotal role in stabilizing an offensive line that’s been hit hard by injuries. — Scarborough
Cody McClure is an SEC Football Writer for Saturday Down South. He lives in Knoxville, Tennessee, where he also co-hosts a midday sports radio show for FOX Sports. Cody previously worked for Athlon Sports.
