As the 2024 college football season approaches, fans and analysts alike eagerly anticipate the performances of some of the most talented players in the nation. This year, the spotlight is on a group of exceptional quarterbacks, wide receivers, and defensive standouts poised to impact their respective teams significantly. Let's dive into the top prospects to watch this season.
Quarterbacks
1. Carson Beck (Georgia)
Carson Beck has proven himself as a reliable and efficient leader for Georgia. His impressive completion percentage showcases his accuracy and decision-making abilities. Beck’s calm demeanor under pressure and strong arm make him a formidable presence on the field. With Georgia’s offensive weapons, Beck is primed for another stellar season, keeping Georgia in the hunt for the SEC Championship and potentially a spot in the College Football Playoff.
2023 Statistics: 3,941 Passing yards, 24 TDs/6 INTs, 72.4% completion percentage
2. Dillon Gabriel (Oregon)
Transitioning from Oklahoma to Oregon, Dillon Gabriel faces the challenge of filling the shoes of Bo Nix. Gabriel’s dual-threat capabilities, which include 373 rushing yards and 12 rushing touchdowns, provide Oregon’s offense with a versatile weapon. His leadership was evident as he led Oklahoma to a 10-2 record and an Alamo Bowl appearance last year. Under Dan Lanning's system, Gabriel’s experience and versatility will be crucial to maintaining Oregon’s high-powered offense.
2023 Statistics: 3,660 yards, 30 TDs/6 INTs, 69.3% completion percentage
3. Quinn Ewers (Texas)
Quinn Ewers is a key player for Texas with his elite arm talent. Ewers has shown flashes of brilliance with his deep ball accuracy and ability to extend plays. The Longhorns have high expectations this season, and Ewers will be at the center of it all. With a strong supporting cast, including one of the nation's best offensive lines, Ewers is poised to lead Texas to new heights.
2023 Statistics: 3,479 yards, 22 TDs/6 INTs, 69% completion percentage
4. Shedeur Sanders (Colorado)
The son of football legend Deion Sanders has made a significant impact at Colorado with his poise and playmaking abilities in the throwing game. Despite his four rushing touchdowns last season, Shedeur’s lack of protection from the offensive line unit netted him a riveting -77 rushing yard season. With Colorado joining the Big 12 in 2024, Shedeur will have more opportunity to demonstrate his versatility in the run game to NFL scouts against a whole new slate of opponents.
2023 statistics: 3,230 yards, 27 TDs/3 INTs, 69.3% completion percentage
Wide Receivers
1. Luther Burden III (Missouri)
Luther Burden III is a dynamic playmaker with the potential to become one of Missouri’s all-time greats. His speed and precise route running make him a deep threat, capable of breaking games wide open. With Missouri vying for an SEC West title, Burden has the opportunity to elevate his team and make a legitimate case for the Heisman Trophy, making him the fourth wide receiver in history to win the prestigious award.
2023 Statistics: 1,212 yards, 86 receptions, 9 TDs
2. Tetairoa McMillan (Arizona)
Entering 2024, Tetairoa McMillan is poised to be the top receiver in the Big 12. His large frame and catch radius make him a reliable target for Arizona’s offense, especially with quarterback Noah Fifita under center. McMillan’s ability to win contested catches and dominate in the red zone will be crucial for Arizona’s success this season and a chance to win the Biletnikoff Award.
2023 Statistics: 1,402 yards, 90 receptions, 10 TDs
3. Tez Johnson (Oregon)
Tez enters his second year at Oregon with the opportunity to be the Ducks' featured receiver. His elusiveness and versatility make him a nightmare for defenders in open space. With a quarterback like Dillon Gabriel, Johnson’s speed and vision will be critical assets in Oregon’s offensive scheme, making him a player to watch as the Ducks aim for a College Football Playoff run.
2023 Statistics: 1,182 yards, 86 receptions, 10 TDs
Running Backs
1. Ollie Gordon (Oklahoma State)
Ollie Gordon is a dual-threat running back who can dominate both on the ground and in the passing game. His impressive rushing and receiving stats highlight his versatility. As Oklahoma State looks to make a statement in this year's expanded playoff, Gordon’s ability to be a consistent playmaker will be essential. His combination of power and agility makes him one of the top players in college football, and he will strive for a chance to win the Heisman.
2023 Statistics: 1,732 rushing yards, 21 rushing TDs, 285 attempts; 39 receptions, 330 receiving yards, 1 receiving TD
2. Jaydn Ott (California)
Jaydn Ott is a crucial component of California’s offense, known for his explosive runs and ability to catch out of the backfield. His dual-threat capabilities allow him to be a constant threat on every down. As Cal looks to make a mark in their new conference, Ott’s performance in the ACC will be pivotal, and his potential as an NFL prospect adds even more intrigue to his season.
2023 Statistics: 1,315 rushing yards, 12 rushing TDs, 246 attempts; 25 receptions, 169 receiving yards, 2 receiving TDs
3. Quinshon Judkins (Ohio State)
After transferring from Ole Miss this offseason, Judkins has made a strong case for himself to be named a day-one starter for Ohio State. His ability to find the end zone on the ground and through the air makes him a versatile weapon in their offense. With the potential to be a top draft pick, Judkins’ performance this season will be closely watched as Ohio State aims to win a national championship in the 2024-25 season.
2023 Statistics: 1,158 rushing yards, 15 rushing TDs, 271 attempts; 22 receptions, 149 receiving yards, 2 receiving TDs
4. Omarion Hampton (North Carolina)
Omarion Hampton is a powerful runner who can easily break through defenses. His impressive stats from last season demonstrate his consistency and ability to carry the load for North Carolina. Hampton is projected to be a late first-round pick in the NFL draft. As the Tar Heels look to make a push in the ACC, Hampton’s role as a dual-threat running back will be crucial to their success.
2023 Statistics: 1,504 rushing yards, 15 rushing TDs, 253 attempts; 29 receptions, 222 receiving yards, 1 receiving TD
Defensive Standouts
1. Will Johnson- (Michigan)
Will Johnson is a standout cornerback for Michigan with a knack for making big plays against any team’s top receiver. His ability to shut down one side of the field, read the quarterback, and create turnovers will be essential for Michigan’s defense as they aim for another Big Ten Championship. Johnson’s ball-hawking skills and lockdown coverage make him a player to watch this upcoming season.
2023 Statistics: 27 total tackles, 4 INTs, 4 PBUs
2. Malaki Starks (Georgia)
Malaki Starks is a versatile safety with the ability to play in the box and deep in coverage. His tackling ability and instinctual play make him crucial to Georgia’s defense. The Bulldog standout has been placed on the watch list for The Walter Camp Award, an award given to the nation’s best collegiate football player as decided by a panel of NCAA coaches. As Georgia looks to continue its dominance in the SEC, Starks will play a significant role in their defensive success.
2023 Statistics: 31 solo tackles, 21 assisted tackles, 3 INTs, 7 PBUs
3. Harold Perkins (LSU)
Harold Perkins is a dynamic linebacker who can disrupt offenses with his speed and athleticism. Known as an accurate rover, his versatility allows him to be effective in coverage, the rushing game, and the open field. As LSU looks to contend in the SEC again, Perkins’ impact on the LSU Tiger will be critical.
2023 Statistics: 43 solo tackles, 32 assists, 1 INT, 5 PBUs
4. James Pearce Jr. (Defensive End, Tennessee)
James Pearce Jr. is a dominant pass rusher for Tennessee who can change games with pressure on the quarterback—his knack for getting to the QB and making impactful plays, like his pick-six last season. As a Preseason All-American and an addition to the Walter Camp Award watch list, it’s no surprise that Tennessee is a top contender in the SEC this year.
Stats: 18 solo tackles, 10 assists, 10 sacks, 1 INT (pick-six)
5. Jack Sawyer (Defensive End, Ohio State)
Jack Sawyer is a versatile defensive end for Ohio State, capable of setting the edge against the run and rushing the passer. His size, speed, and technique make him a key player on Ohio State’s defense. With aspirations for an All-American bid, a Chuck Bednarik Award nomination, and another College Football Playoff appearance. Sawyer must bring his A game in an expanded Big 10 conference.
Stats: 24 solo tackles, 24 assists, 6.5 sacks, 2 passes defended
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