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The 2024 college football season is at the midway point, if you hadn’t heard yet. CBS Sports released its midyear All-America team and second-chance College Football Playoff predictions this week, while 247Sports dropped its midseason True Freshman All-America team on Thursday.
That means it’s time for an update to our ranking of the top 100 players in college football. If you remember, we polished up our preseason Top 151 in August. We won’t go the full 151 this time; 100 is certainly enough for now. What separates this list from the preseason one is that we now incorporate true freshmen — we think you can guess the two in the top-20.Â
Let’s get to the list, which includes the same No. 1 player we’ve had since the spring.Â
1. Colorado CB/WR Travis Hunter (No. 1 in preseason)
Hunter remains at No. 1 and continues to dominate on both sides of the ball. He is a difference maker on both offense and defense, a unique talent we’ve rarely seen. Hunter was injured and missed most of the Kansas State game, which is something to monitor going forward as it deeply affects Colorado’s chances to win. He has 49 catches for 587 yards and six touchdowns offensively. Defensively, despite rarely being tested, he has two interceptions and five passes defended. Hunter is expected to make an immediate impact at the next level, regardless of his role.Â
2. Boise State RB Ashton Jeanty (No. 44)
Jeanty is having one of the most impressive seasons in recent memory, dominating nearly every rushing statistic. He is on pace for a historic season and currently leads the Heisman race, averaging more than 200 yards per game with 17 touchdowns on the ground. He’s also a threat as a receiver. Jeanty has elite contact balance and the long speed to score anytime he touches the ball.
3. Miami QB Cam Ward (No. 30)
Ward has been a huge addition to the Hurricanes, leading them to several come-from-behind victories in recent weeks. He has cut down on his interceptions, with just five this season, and continues to be one of the best dual-threat quarterbacks in the country. Ward leads the nation, averaging 370 passing yards per game with 20 touchdowns while completing 69% of his passes. He has also added three rushing touchdowns and, with the experience and talent around him, is poised to guide the Hurricanes to the playoffs.
4. Michigan DT Mason Graham (No. 3)
Graham is a total package player with the ability to dominate both the run and pass. He is twitchy and powerful, with the intelligence to recognize how offensive linemen are attacking him, allowing him to instinctively adjust his pass-rush plan. Graham has generated 17 total pressures, 3.5 sacks, and four tackles for loss while consistently facing double teams and extra attention from opposing offenses. He is a special talent who will likely be an early pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
5. Oregon QB Dillon Gabriel (No. 20)
Oregon’s offense is a quarterback’s dream, featuring a balanced attack, talented supporting cast, and an impressive completion rate. Gabriel shredded a strong Ohio State defense for 341 yards and two touchdowns. He’s averaging 298 passing yards per game with only three interceptions. Gabriel, a savvy veteran and dual-threat quarterback, is in the thick of the Heisman race, with Oregon well-positioned for a deep playoff run.
7. Texas OT Kelvin Banks (No. 10)
Banks has been impressive, passing his biggest tests of the year with standout performances against Michigan and Oklahoma’s stout defenses. He has excelled in both the run and pass game, knocking defenders off the ball and allowing just one pressure all season. A fluid athlete with great footwork, Banks has a strong chance to be the first offensive lineman taken in the draft if he continues performing at a high level as Texas moves deeper into its schedule.
8. Ole Miss DT Walter Nolen (No. 27)
Nolen is reaching his full potential in his draft-eligible year, taking his game to the next level by regularly overpowering his opponents. He has generated 26 pressures, 2.5 sacks, and six tackles for loss this season. Nolen is thick, powerful, slippery, and quick, serving as a disruptive force in the middle of the Rebel defense. Expect him to compete with Mason Graham for the top defensive tackle spot in the upcoming NFL Draft.
9. LSU OT Will Campbell (No. 6)
Campbell, one of the few pure left tackles, is off to another great start in his third year as a starter. He’s been excellent in protecting the blind side, allowing just three pressures all season, and is solid in the run game as well. A seasoned and skilled player, Campbell has built an impressive resume against top competition and will be tough to pass up as the top offensive lineman in the spring.
10. Colorado QB Shedeur Sanders (No. 4)
Sanders continues to impress on the field and is in great position to be the first quarterback taken after the season. He has done an excellent job seeing the field and limiting turnovers, throwing just four interceptions. Despite some inconsistency from his offensive line, Sanders is completing more than 72% of his passes and averaging 336 yards per game with 17 touchdowns. He looks more fit this season and has also shown the ability to extend plays and use his legs as a weapon.
11. South Carolina EDGE Kyle Kennard (NR)
Kennard has an impressive array of pass-rush moves, including a quick get-off, speed to power, and an inside move. He has generated 26 pressures and leads the SEC with 7.5 sacks and 11.5 tackles for loss. Kennard had a standout game against LSU’s Will Campbell, a future first-rounder, and has consistently brought his best each week. His draft stock has risen significantly this year on a South Carolina defensive line that creates a lot of problems for opponents.
12. Ole Miss WR Tre Harris (No. 23)
Harris has been mostly healthy but got dinged up in last week’s game at LSU, which affected Ole Miss when they needed him the most. He is a difference maker and gets plenty of touches in the explosive Rebels offense, someone they need available to compete against the elite in the SEC. Harris, a long and athletic playmaker, gains more than half of his yards after contact and is an explosive threat despite not having elite speed. He leads the nation in receiving yards with 987 and is averaging 141 yards per game.
13. Boston College EDGE Donovan Ezeiruaku (NR)
Ezeiruaku has been a constant presence in opponents’ backfields, generating 27 total pressures with nine sacks and 11.5 tackles for loss against quality competition. He can win with speed and counter inside to reach the quarterback, boasting a lightning-quick inside move. Facing weaker competition in the ACC for the rest of the season, Ezeiruaku is likely to put up big numbers.
14. West Virginia OT Wyatt Milum (No. 100)
Milum is off to a great start for the Mountaineers and is having one of the best seasons in pass protection in the country. He has not allowed a single pressure this season and possesses the size, length, athleticism, and footwork to be an All-American and a likely high draft pick after the season.
15. Penn State TE Tyler Warren (NR)
Warren is a jack-of-all-trades for Penn State, even playing wildcat quarterback and throwing touchdown passes. More importantly, he is the best tight end in the country. A tough, dependable receiver who fights for extra yardage, Warren is also a capable blocker. If any team plans to stop Penn State’s offense, they must account for Warren on every snap. He’s a throwback player who will fit seamlessly into any offense at the next level.
15. Alabama IOL Tyler Booker (No. 29)
Booker is having another dominant season up front for the Tide and is the best candidate to go in the first round among interior offensive linemen. A physical and athletic mauler, he plays through the whistle with maximum effort and even filled in at left tackle against South Florida. Booker has allowed five pressures this season and continues to be a key player for Alabama.
16. Michigan CB Will Johnson (No. 11)
Johnson has had a strong start to the season for the stingy Michigan defense, though he hasn’t been the lockdown corner some expected, despite recording two pick-sixes. He’s been much more consistent lately. An instinctive player with a high ceiling, Johnson has allowed 16 catches but no touchdowns this season. He’s expected to be the second corner drafted behind Travis Hunter and has the potential to be a future star.
17. Alabama WR Ryan Williams (NR, freshman)
Williams’ freshman campaign is off to a historic start, especially given that he should still be in high school. The dynamic playmaker is a touchdown threat on every snap, with great leaping ability, long speed, and an exceptional ability to track the ball. Williams has 23 catches for 576 yards and six touchdowns and needs to be targeted at least 10 times per game. Expect big things in 2025 after a year in the offseason program.
18. Ohio State WR Jeremiah Smith (NR, freshman)
Smith has lived up to the hype, consistently looking like a man among boys despite being one of the youngest players on the field. He is a matchup nightmare, dominating contested catches and making one-handed grabs with ease. Smith is averaging 92 yards per game and has seven touchdowns. He has a ridiculous ceiling and is already NFL-ready, serving as the featured target in a loaded unit.
19. Penn State EDGE Abdul Carter (No. 17)
Carter has settled into his new position and is hitting his stride, with Penn State maximizing his strengths as both a dynamic pass rusher and a heat-seeking missile who can get to the quarterback. Carter has generated 21 pressures, four sacks, and 9.5 tackles for loss. A twitchy and dynamic player, Carter will be a high-priority pick in the 2025 NFL Draft as he continues to improve each week.
20. Kentucky DT Deone Walker (No. 40)
Walker is a massive presence, hard to move and quick like a cat. Despite facing constant double teams, he has generated 14 pressures. Walker must be accounted for in every game plan, as he can wreck an offense with his combination of speed and power. He does the lion’s share of the dirty work in the trenches for the Wildcats.
21. Arizona WR Tetairoa McMillan (No. 13)
The 6-foot-5 McMillan has been dominant as expected, making ridiculous catches seem routine. He currently has 42 receptions and is averaging almost 18 yards per catch. With exceptional fluidity, length, and the ability to dominate contested catches, McMillan can also take it the distance across the middle. He needs more touches if the Wildcats are going to make a bowl game.
22. Georgia IOL Dylan Fairchild (NR)
Surprisingly, Fairchild has emerged as the standout for Georgia’s offensive line, as some of their star players have either been hurt or have not met lofty expectations early on. Fairchild is a mauler who plays aggressively on every snap and has held his own against Clemson, Kentucky, and Alabama. He is solid in both phases, allowing only two pressures in protection this season. Fairchild has a bright future at the next level.
23. LSU EDGE Braydn Swinson (NR)
The former Oregon Duck has a great feel for setting up offensive tackles with both speed and power. Swinson’s long arms and hand technique cause plenty of problems for opponents, as he has racked up seven sacks, eight tackles for loss, and 26 pressures. LSU even uses him as a stand-up linebacker in obvious pass-rushing situations, and he has been effective in that role. Swinson is raising his draft stock this season and could be a top two-round pick.
24. Alabama QB Jalen Milroe (No. 7)
Milroe started the season hot and was in the thick of the Heisman race, but he has cooled off in the last two weeks. His legs are a cheat code, and Alabama is maximizing his strengths as a dual-threat weapon. Milroe has improved as a passer, becoming better at reading the field and making smarter decisions, but he has turned the ball over more than desired and still panics under pressure. If Alabama hopes to make the playoffs, they will need to take full advantage of Milroe’s running ability.
25. San Diego State EDGE Trey White (NR)
White currently leads the nation in sacks with 11 and tackles for loss with 15. He’s been a game-wrecker for the Aztecs, adding 29 pressures and showing the ability to win with speed and sift through traffic to reach the quarterback. Once an under-the-radar player, White will attract a lot of attention for the rest of the season.
26. Georgia DB Malaki Starks (No. 18)
Starks hasn’t been as dominant as in past seasons but is still having a solid year. His interception against Clemson was ridiculous, though it remains his only one for now. Georgia uses him near the box often, where he’s been a solid defender and looked dominant against Mississippi State last week. Starks has a huge opportunity to make a statement, alongside other high-profile defenders, in this weekend’s game against a talented Texas offense.
27. Syracuse QB Kyle McCord (NR)
McCord has been given full control of the offense after being limited at Ohio State, and he has made the most of his fresh start. McCord is averaging more than 360 yards per game and has limited turnovers, throwing only six interceptions for a Syracuse offense that has more firepower than usual. His fit with the team is proof of the impact belief in a player can have on their development and the program’s success.
28. Virginia Tech EDGE Antwaun Powell-Ryland (No. 121)
Powell-Ryland (APR) has been a menace off the edge for a vastly improved Hokie defensive line, racking up hits on the quarterback with ease. He has seven sacks, 23 pressures, and 7.5 tackles for loss this season. APR possesses an incredible first step and can go from speed to power, mixing in counters against offensive line oversets. He’s a true closer.
29. Tennessee EDGE James Pearce Jr. (No. 2)
Pearce has had a solid start to the season and looks the part off the edge, though he hasn’t fully taken over games yet. He’s an exceptional prospect with great hand usage and the ability to convert speed to power. Pearce has 22 pressures, two sacks, and four tackles for loss. Expect a strong finish to the season from him, and he’s likely a top-20 pick. While more dominance was expected, there’s plenty of time left in the season.
30. Michigan EDGE Josaiah Stewart (No. 137)
Stewart is an elite pass rusher despite not having the prototype size the NFL covets. He’s relentless, with an elite first step and explosive burst off the edge, showing the speed to run the hoop and the power to collapse the pocket. Stewart also has an excellent inside counter move. He brings some Dwight Freeney vibes, minus the spin move. Stewart has five sacks, 8.5 tackles for loss, and 21 pressures, despite missing the Minnesota game.
31. Ohio State WR Emeka Egbuka (No. 39)
Egbuka consistently shows up each week and plays multiple roles for the Buckeyes, not only as one of their top receiving targets but also as a weapon in the running game. He’s a silky-smooth route runner with exceptional hands, situational awareness, and the ability to take it to the house anytime he touches the ball. Egbuka is averaging 88 receiving yards per game with 40 catches and six touchdowns.
32. Miami OT Francis Mauigoa (No. 132)
Mauigoa has lived up to expectations, delivering solid performances for the Hurricanes halfway through the season. He’s big and physical in the run game, able to knock defenders off the ball, while his pass protection has been solid, despite some struggles against speed rushers and inside moves. Mauigoa has allowed just six pressures this season.
33. Texas A&M EDGE Nic Scourton (No. 43)
Scourton has been a great addition to the Aggies’ tenacious defense, developing a nice toolbox of moves with speed and power, including his signature spin move. Scourton has generated 18 pressures, 4.5 sacks, and 10 tackles for loss so far this season, making him one of the most disruptive players off the edge. He has great size and projects as a powerful defensive end at the next level.
34. Oregon DT Derrick Harmon (NR)
Harmon has been a disruptive force inside for the Ducks, excelling in their movement and stunts. He’s generated 29 pressures, three sacks, and 4.5 tackles for loss. With exceptional quickness and a great burst, the former Spartan has been one of the better transfer portal additions in the trenches and a key factor in Oregon’s success in the Big Ten. Harmon has early-round NFL potential.
35. Arkansas EDGE Landon Jackson (No. 87)
Jackson has been a consistent source of pressure for the Razorbacks, bringing a balanced mix of speed, finesse, and power to the defensive front each week. He has generated 21 pressures off the edge with 2.5 sacks and 4.5 tackles for loss so far. With his huge frame, Jackson projects as either a power defensive end or defensive tackle at the next level and could be a day-two draft pick.
36. Georgia OT Earnest Greene III (No. 88)
Greene is one of the top offensive tackles on one of the best offensive lines in the country, though he flies under the radar. He has allowed only one pressure from the blind side this season and is not only an excellent technician but also a great athlete who can get out in space and dominate defenders.
37. Missouri WR Luther Burden III (No. 5)
Burden has struggled with a lack of vertical touches despite being one of the best playmakers in the country. He’s averaging only 66 receiving yards per game with four touchdowns, and he’s added 90 rushing yards and two touchdowns on the ground. Burden was banged up late in the game against UMass, but once he returns, the Tigers need to feed him the ball more as they remain in contention in the SEC with just one loss.
38. Iowa RB Kaleb Johnson (NR)
Johnson is a great zone runner with excellent vision and speed, attacking the hole with burst. He has 25 explosive runs and more than 660 yards after contact, making him the nation’s second-leading rusher while averaging almost eight yards per carry. Johnson also has 12 receptions and a touchdown in the passing game.
39. Ole Miss EDGE Jared Ivey (NR)
How has Ole Miss lost two games with all the talent they have? Ivey is the best power edge player you may not know about. He has five sacks and 24 pressures this season and dominated LSU’s future first-rounder Emory Jones Jr. last week with elite hand swipes, long arms, and counters. Ivey’s length and pass-rushing ability could make him a riser in the draft, with first-round potential.
40. Texas Tech RB Tahj Brooks (No. 55)
Brooks continues to fly under the radar in a weak Big 12 but is averaging 136 rushing yards per game and has seven touchdowns on the ground. He’s also a receiving threat, though he has seen fewer touches in the passing game this season. Brooks displays excellent balance on contact, with the ability to break arm tackles and churn out yards after contact, making him a key player for the surprising Red Raiders.
41. Alabama OT Kadyn Proctor (NR)
Proctor has made significant improvements from his freshman season, which had its ups and downs. After missing the first few games due to a freak pre-game injury, he hasn’t missed a beat, allowing just one pressure this season. He was credited with a sack against South Carolina, though that call was questionable. A giant human with good footwork for his size, Proctor is only getting better and is projected to be a top pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
42. Clemson QB Cade Klubnik (NR)
Klubnik is starting to perform at a high level, protecting the football better than in previous seasons. A key part of his success is the improved performance of Clemson’s skill players. Klubnik is completing 67% of his passes, the highest mark of his career, with only two interceptions and 17 touchdown passes. He’s reading defenses well and making accurate throws, ensuring that only his receivers have a chance to make the play. Klubnik is also a threat with his legs, scoring four rushing touchdowns, and he is currently the No. 1-rated quarterback in the country against the blitz.
43. Iowa LB Jay Higgins (No. 21)
Higgins has been consistently excellent for the stingy Hawkeye defense for two seasons. He’s been racking up double-digit tackles again this season, averaging 14 tackles over the last two weeks. Higgins has also forced two fumbles and intercepted two passes, making him a must-watch player known for his consistency and attention to detail in all phases of the game.
44. LSU QB Garrett Nussmeier (No. 134)
Nussmeier plays like an old-school gunslinger and has had an impressive season throwing for the Tigers. Coming into the season, he had the most to gain in a weaker quarterback class, and he has delivered. He has a strong arm and can make accurate throws in tight windows, trusting his talented receivers to come down with the ball. Nussmeier has thrown for nearly 2,000 yards but needs to limit his interceptions.
45. Miami TE Elijah Arroyo (NR)
Arroyo has been a riser this season, emerging as a tight end with great hands and the ability to rack up explosive yards after the catch. He’s averaging 20 yards per reception on just 14 catches with four touchdowns. While not the greatest blocker, Arroyo definitely needs more targets. He runs better than most tight ends and is an excellent middle-of-the-field threat, reliable on naked and stick routes.
46. Oregon OT Josh Conerly Jr. (No. 71)
Conerly has been solid all season, excelling in both the run and pass game with excellent technique. He’s been effective at rooting out defenders in the run game in Oregon’s zone scheme, and he’s allowed very few pressures in pass protection. Conerly is quick with his feet and delivers a powerful punch when engaging defenders, playing at a high level as the season progresses.
47. Iowa State WR Jayden Higgins (NR)
Higgins, a jumbo wideout, has teamed up with Jaylin Noel to form a deadly receiving combo for the Cyclones. Higgins can work the entire field, but his exceptional length and catch radius make him a mismatch on deep fades and contested catches. He’s averaging 13 yards per catch with five touchdowns and 17 explosive receptions this season.
48. Ohio State C Seth McLaughlin (No. 92)
McLaughlin has been a major upgrade for the Buckeyes, having his best season yet after experiencing snapping issues last year at Alabama. Those issues weren’t entirely his fault, but they were a concern. Now, McLaughlin is excelling as a puller in the run game and has been solid in protection, with no snapping problems at Ohio State. With left tackle Josh Simmons out for the year due to injury, McLaughlin’s leadership will be crucial moving forward.
49. Minnesota OT Aireontae Ersery (No. 136)
Ersery is a giant left tackle (6-foot-6, 325 pounds) with good feet who has shown improvement each season. He struggled in a rough game against Michigan’s TJ Guy but has otherwise had a solid season. Ersery has a great feel for the game, can engulf defenders in the run game, and possesses heavy hands. He has a high ceiling as he continues to develop.
50. Notre Dame DB Xavier Watts (No. 45)
Watts, last year’s Nagurski Award winner, is a versatile defender and a ball-hawk in the middle of the field, recording two interceptions and seven passes defended this season. Last year, he had seven interceptions. He hasn’t allowed a touchdown all season and can close space in the run game quickly, missing only two tackles so far.
51. Auburn WR KeAndre Lambert-Smith (NR)
Lambert-Smith is averaging 21 yards per catch with six touchdowns, serving as a bright spot in Auburn’s passing game. He excels at attacking the middle of the field on posts and slants, and he’s capable of stretching the field vertically and stacking defenders. Lambert-Smith has great situational awareness, making impressive catches with his feet barely in bounds and even while falling on his back.
52. Marshall EDGE Mike Green (NR)
Green is a relentless edge rusher for the Thundering Herd, racking up eight sacks and generating 35 pressures this season. He can beat tackles with speed, a solid inside move, and an effective counter to disrupt quarterbacks. Green has been a nightmare for opposing tackles and a disruptive force in the Sun Belt.
53. Miami WR Xavier Restrepo No. 62)
Restrepo has been a difference maker and a reliable target for the Hurricanes, recording 32 catches for 585 yards and five touchdowns. With Miami’s abundance of playmakers, Restrepo remains the go-to option in crunch time. He’s an excellent route runner, dependable with zero drops, and maximizes yards after the catch.
54. Ohio State RB Quinshon Judkins (No. 12)
While Ashton Jeanty is getting the national attention he deserves, Judkins could be the first back off the board come draft time. He’s sharing the workload with TreVeyon Henderson, so his numbers are down, but so are his hits. Judkins is still averaging seven yards per carry with six touchdowns. He has a nice blend of speed and power, along with good hands out of the backfield.
55. Georgia QB Carson Beck (No. 8)
Beck is having a solid season despite a few poor decisions in the Alabama game, which can be forgotten if he performs well Saturday night in Austin. Beck sometimes forces throws into tight or unnecessary windows but is usually accurate. He’s now on the same page with his receivers after losing two of his most trusted targets. His deep ball accuracy has improved, and he loves throwing back-shoulder passes.
56. Navy QB Blake Horvath (NR)
Horvath is one of Navy’s most versatile quarterbacks since maybe Roger Staubach. He’s averaging 8.5 yards per carry with 10 rushing touchdowns and has nearly 800 passing yards with seven touchdowns and only one interception. The Army-Navy game is always must-watch TV, but this year could be even more special with a lot on the line.
57. Texas A&M CB Will Lee III (NR)
“The Blanket” is an appropriate nickname for Lee, who is second in the country with nine passes defended and has broken up eight more, along with one interception. He’s allowed just one touchdown and has the size and length to match up with the SEC’s best wideouts. Playing in Mike Elko’s system, with the pressure A&M generates up front, has been a huge benefit for Lee.
58. Oregon RB Jordan James (NR)
James is a versatile back, excelling as both a runner and a receiver. He’s averaging 111 rushing yards per game with six yards per carry and six touchdowns. James is a powerful runner with a thick lower half, excellent vision, and impressive cutback ability.
59. Rutgers RB Kyle Monangai (No. 41)
Monangai is an underrated back, averaging 5.5 yards per carry and scoring seven touchdowns on the ground, despite being the focal point of opposing defenses. He’s a slasher with great vision, though he lacks breakaway speed. Monangai excels in Rutgers’ zone scheme and projects as a solid change-of-pace back at the next level.
60. Stanford WR Elic Ayomanor (No. 63)
Ayomanor carries the burden of being the only reliable threat on an otherwise struggling Stanford offense, which limits his production. Despite being a marked man weekly, he’s still averaging 12 yards per catch with three touchdowns. An excellent route runner with great hands and body control, Ayomanor could have a strong market if he decides to transfer—after securing that Stanford degree first!
61. Arizona OT Jonah Savaiinaea (NR)
Savaiinaea is a thick and powerful right tackle with a high ceiling and room for growth. He’s nimble and agile for his size, able to displace defenders in the run game and handle pass protection effectively. While he sometimes struggles with the inside move, Savaiinaea has a bright future, likely heading to the next level after this season.
62. Georgia EDGE Jalon Walker (NR)
Walker is a highly talented hybrid defender, playing on the edge, in the box, and as an outside linebacker. He’s the kind of versatile chess piece that Georgia is known for, though his stats are lacking at this stage. Walker is expected to be a first-round pick after the season and an impact player once he settles into a permanent position. He has 12 pressures and is explosive off the line. He has a huge opportunity to break out against Kelvin Banks this weekend.
63. Indiana QB Kurtis Rourke (NR)
I’ll be honest, I hadn’t heard much about Rourke until recently, but he’s having an impressive season. He’s completing 74% of his passes with 14 touchdowns and only two interceptions. Rourke throws a catchable ball, placing it in perfect spots with great touch, and does a nice job of taking what the defense gives him. He’s a decent athlete with plenty of experience, giving the Hoosiers a chance to keep shocking the nation if they keep winning.
64. Clemson RB Phil Mafah (No. 109)
Mafah is one of my favorite running backs in the country because not only is he a physical runner who breaks tackles, but he also has the speed to take it the distance. He has 17 explosive runs and is averaging nearly seven yards per touch with four touchdowns. Mafah is also solid in pass protection and will make an NFL team very happy next year.
65. North Carolina RB Omarion Hampton (No. 64)
Hampton has been one of the few bright spots on a disappointing Tar Heel team. Despite facing stacked defenses every week, he’s still averaging 5.8 yards per touch with seven touchdowns and 27 explosive runs. Hampton excels between the tackles, showing the power to break arm tackles, though he lacks home-run speed.
66. Tennessee DT Omarr Norman-Lott (No. 83)
Norman-Lott is one of the most underappreciated talents in the country, despite being a top-50 prospect in my view. He has an explosive get-off, twitchy movement, and the bend to work past blockers, combined with the power to collapse the pocket. With a high motor, Norman-Lott is a difference maker, and his upcoming matchups against Alabama and Georgia should be must-watch.
67. Miami EDGE Tyler Baron (No. 70)
Not sure how Miami was able to get Baron during the spring cycle (he had just transferred from Tennessee to Louisville), but he has been a game-changer up front. Baron is now playing full-time on the edge, where he has recorded 4.5 sacks, 7.5 tackles for loss, and 26 pressures. A relentless rusher with long arms, he has the speed to turn the corner and the power to close with an inside counter move.
68. Kansas State RB DJ Giddens (NR)
Giddens is averaging 7.3 yards per touch and needs to see more carries, as he’s only getting about 20 touches per game but has already racked up 786 yards this season. He has excellent vision, burst, and the ability to make sharp cuts. While he lacks elite speed, Giddens is a solid player with a bright future.
69. LSU OT Emery Jones Jr. (No. 61)
Jones and Will Campbell form the best tackle combination in the country, though Jones had his worst game of the season against Ole Miss, allowing 10 pressures out of 16 on the year, largely thanks to Jared Ivey. A thick and powerful right tackle with heavy hands, Jones has a bright future but needs to work on mixing up his pass sets and learning to independently punch against side-scissor rushers.
70. Michigan DT Kenneth Grant (No. 54)
Disruptive 340-plus-pound nose guards don’t grow on trees, especially ones who can rush the passer and have a motor. Grant is a powerful force who can not only hold the point but also move it backward. He’s able to penetrate and stunt effectively, recording two sacks and 11 pressures. It’s impressive that anyone can score on Michigan’s defense, given the talent they’ve accumulated
71. Bowling Green TE Harold Fannin Jr. (NR)
It’s great to see a player like Fannin shine on the biggest stages, as he did against Penn State and Texas A&M. Fannin is a thickly built tight end who’s more than willing to block—a rare quality! He’s also averaging 14 yards per catch with 700 receiving yards. Fannin’s film is impressive, and he’s boosted his draft stock this season.
72. San Jose State WR Nick Nash (NR)
Nash is currently second in the country in receiving, averaging 134 yards per game with 10 touchdowns on a nation-leading 62 catches. Surprisingly, most of his catches come in the short to intermediate parts of the field, where he consistently makes people miss and moves the chains. Nash is tall and agile with excellent awareness. It’s surprising he wasn’t poached by a bigger program, but he’s had a fantastic start to the season.
73. South Carolina EDGE Dylan Stewart (NR)
How is this kid a freshman? Stewart is the prototype edge rusher the NFL covets, and he’ll be a very wealthy man in two years—not just NIL wealthy. He’s a natural pass rusher with an excellent get-off, speed rush, power, ghost move, and inside counter, which have resulted in 19 pressures and four sacks already. At 6-foot-6 with long arms, Stewart has a decent shot at being the No. 1 overall pick.
74. Notre Dame RB Jeremiyah Love (NR)
Notre Dame excels at finding running backs who love to punish defenders on contact, and Love is no exception. He’s a powerful, punishing runner with good speed, averaging nearly eight yards per carry with six rushing touchdowns. Love is also a receiving threat with 12 catches and one touchdown. He has excellent vision and patience, exploding through defenders on contact.
75. Nebraska DT Nash Hutmacher (NR)
Hutmacher’s wrestling background has translated well to football, making him an underrated and fun-to-watch player. He’s not only physical at the point of attack but also disruptive, playing with incredible leverage. Surprisingly, Hutmacher wins mostly with finesse as a pass rusher, recording two sacks and 10 pressures. He’s a throwback player who plays the game the right way.
76. SMU QB Kevin Jennings (NR)
Rhett Lashlee has made all the right moves, and Jennings has been a nice upgrade as a dual-threat quarterback, sparking SMU’s offense. Jennings has thrown six touchdown passes with only one interception for 1,000 yards. While SMU picks its spots to run Jennings, the threat is always there. When he runs, he’s effective, averaging six yards per carry with two touchdowns. He’s an impressive player to watch and is improving weekly.
77. Army QB Bryson Daily (NR)
Daily is having a big-time season for Army, showing his toughness as a physical runner. He’s averaging nearly seven yards per carry with 14 rushing touchdowns. Though Army doesn’t throw often, Daily has made the most of his opportunities, throwing six touchdown passes.
78. California DB Nohll Williams (NR)
Williams leads the nation with six interceptions and has nine passes defended while allowing only one touchdown. He excels in press coverage, staying glued to his receiver and playing the ball in the air well. A true ball hawk, Williams is an excellent player for the always well-coached Bears, led by Justin Wilcox, who doesn’t get enough credit.
79. Tennessee RB Dylan Sampson (NR)
Sampson continues to impress weekly and currently leads the SEC with 700 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns on the ground. He’s a slasher who generally stays inside the tackles, showing good vision and balance with good but not great speed. Sampson is undoubtedly the MVP of Tennessee’s offense and is a fun player to watch who delivers every week.
80. UCF Running Back RJ Harvey (NR)
Harvey is the key to UCF’s ground attack and is having a big year for the Knights, rushing for 694 yards and nine touchdowns with a 6.4 yards-per-carry average. He’s also a threat as a receiver, with nine catches for over 195 yards and two touchdowns. Harvey is quick and elusive, with long speed and the ability to cut outside and hit explosive runs.
81. Texas Linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. (NR)
Hill has settled in as a linebacker this season and is becoming one of the better players at his position in the country in his second year. He’s averaging seven tackles per game with 4.5 sacks and 8.5 tackles for loss. Hill had a breakout performance against Oklahoma with 11 tackles and two sacks. He’s athletic, can run sideline to sideline, and changes direction well for his size. Texas uses him in a variety of roles, including as a QB spy and pass rusher.
82. LSU Linebacker Whit Weeks (NR)
Weeks had a standout performance last week against Ole Miss, delivering one of the better defensive showings of the season with 18 tackles and a clutch sack. He currently has 59 tackles, ranking 10th nationally, and is averaging 9.8 per game with only one missed tackle against the run. Weeks is instinctive, always in the right spot, and clutch in pressure situations.
83. Ole Miss Quarterback Jaxson Dart (No. 56)
Dart is averaging over 340 yards per game this season and is completing 70% of his passes, though he’s coming off his worst game of the year against LSU, where he made some low-percentage throws that were costly. A field general who understands Lane Kiffin’s offense well, Dart sees the field and anticipates throws. He’s also a threat with his legs and isn’t afraid of contact, but he needs to be sharp for the rest of the season to avoid wasting a ridiculously talented roster.
84. BYU Quarterback Jake Retzlaff (NR)
Retzlaff has been a major spark for one of the surprise teams in the country this season. His numbers won’t wow people, but he’s been clutch when the Cougars need him, and he’s a weapon as a dual-threat quarterback. He’s averaging 4.6 yards per carry and has completed over 60% of his passes for more than 1,400 yards and 14 touchdowns.
85. Pitt AP Desmond Reid (NR)
Reid is listed as a running back, but he’s a true all-purpose back. He has nearly 500 rushing yards, 341 receiving yards, and 78 punt return yards, along with eight combined touchdowns. Reid, along with quarterback Eli Holstein, has been a difference maker on an impressive Pitt team. He has excellent vision, quick feet, and can cut on a dime to hit explosive runs.
86. Arizona State RB Cam Skattebo (NR)
I liked this guy last year after stumbling upon a late-night Pac-12 after-dark game, and I’m still impressed. Skattebo is averaging 5.8 yards per carry and has eight touchdowns on the ground. He’s not just a punisher who delivers blows to defenders—he also has better speed than you’d think. Skattebo has excellent contact balance and is also a receiving threat, with 250 yards on 19 catches. He’s a ball player.
87. Indiana EDGE Mikail Kamara (NR)
The James Madison transfer has been a wrecking ball in the Big Ten, recording five sacks and generating 30 pressures. Kamara may not have ideal size, but his position versatility makes him effective, rushing the passer from multiple spots on the defensive line. He’s been winning with speed, power, and great hand technique. Kamara has put together an impressive season so far.
88. TCU WR Jack Bech (NR)
Bech has been a bright spot for one of the most disappointing teams in the country, eclipsing his entire previous college career stats in just half a season. He’s fifth in the nation, averaging 117 yards per game with seven touchdowns. A big-bodied receiver, Bech is difficult to tackle and routinely drags defenders after the catch.
89. Illinois QB Luke Altmyer (NR)
Altmyer is having a fantastic season, leading Illinois to a 6-1 record. He’s shown excellent command of the offense, throwing 14 touchdowns with only one interception while completing 68% of his passes. Altmyer has the ability to hit all levels of the field, extends plays well, and can throw on the move. Plus, he’s rocking a sweet mullet!
90. Michigan RB Kalel Mullings (NR)
Mullings has overtaken Donovan Edwards as RB1 and is having an excellent year in a one-dimensional offense. He’s averaging 6.5 yards per carry and has recorded three 100-yard rushing games. A big and physical back, Mullings runs well between the tackles and has better speed than expected, making him capable of breaking long runs.
91. Auburn EDGE Keldric Faulk (NR)
Faulk has been on a mission this season, recording five sacks and 31 pressures for the Tigers. He possesses excellent length and power, along with the versatility to line up anywhere on the defensive front. Though he’s just missed several sacks, Faulk is a player opposing teams must game-plan for each week.
92. Oklahoma EDGE R. Mason Thomas (NR)
While Danny Stutsman was expected to be the first Sooner defender on this list, Thomas has been the standout. A speedy edge rusher, Thomas has been causing havoc with 5.5 sacks and 14 pressures so far this season. He can bend and turn the corner, and as the season progresses, he’s only getting better.
93. Ohio State EDGE Jack Sawyer (No. 38)
Sawyer is a tough and physical edge rusher who has improved every season. He’s doing a great job harassing quarterbacks, recording 2.5 sacks and 24 pressures, while also being strong against the run. Sawyer wins mostly with speed-to-power moves and plays hard on every snap.
94. Maryland WR Tai Felton (NR)
Felton is averaging 120 receiving yards per game and has five touchdowns so far this season for the Terps. He’s more of a chain-mover and possession receiver, with 34 catches for first downs and 17 explosive catches. Felton is currently the fourth-leading receiver in yards nationally.
95. Kansas State QB Avery Johnson (No. 151)
The dual-threat sophomore has been clutch for much of the season, improving his passing while completing 62% of his throws with 11 touchdowns and five interceptions. Johnson is always a threat on the ground, rushing for 300 yards and three touchdowns. While his numbers aren’t jaw-dropping, Johnson is a winner and a key piece of Kansas State’s success.
96. Texas A&M RB Le’Veon Moss (NR)
Moss has been solid for the much-improved Aggies, bouncing back from a disappointing opener against Notre Dame. Moss needs more touches, as he’s averaging nearly seven yards per carry and has six rushing touchdowns. A tough and physical runner who excels between the tackles, Moss has racked up 450 yards after contact.
97. Notre Dame CB Benjamin Morrison (No. 25)
Morrison is unfortunately out for the season with a hip injury, but he was having a solid year in a cornerback market that has seen several players sidelined by injury. Because the injury happened at the cut-off point of the season, Morrison still deserves mention in this list. Morrison recorded his first interception last week against Stanford and had four passes defended before his injury. He could be a first-round pick in 2025.Â
98. Texas EDGE Colin Simmons (NR, freshman)
Texas has started hitting on defensive difference makers, and Simmons is one of them. With an explosive first step and an ability to disrupt quarterbacks, Simmons has recorded four sacks and 14 pressures. He has a solid long-arm technique but needs to add more moves to his toolbox. His speed rush has been highly effective, and the future is bright for him.
99. Buffalo LB Shaun Dolac (NR)
Dolac leads the country with 87 tackles, averaging nearly 15 tackles per game. Add in 11.5 tackles for loss, three sacks, and two interceptions, and it’s clear Dolac is having a standout season. He’s a solid player with a nose for the ball and a high motor, constantly involved in defensive stops.
100. Vanderbilt QB Diego Pavia (NR)
While Pavia’s stats might not blow anyone away, he’s a winner and grinder who has been the glue to Vanderbilt’s dream season. He led the team to back-to-back wins over Alabama and Kentucky. Pavia has thrown 10 touchdown passes with only one interception, and he’s averaging over 17 rushes per game with two rushing touchdowns and 388 yards. You can’t measure the heart of a winner.
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