As football season is now just days away it’s time for my annual look at the Freshman 15, the top 15 true freshmen to watch at the start of the season. Here’s Nos. 10-12.
Mark Pszonak contributed to this report.
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FRESHMAN 15: Nos. 13-15
FARRELL 50: Countdown of top CFB players begins with Nos. 46-50 | 41-45 | 36-40 | 31-35 | 26-30 | 21-25 | 16-20 | 11-15 | 6-10 | 1-5
CLASS OF 2022 RANKINGS: Rivals250 | Position | Team | State
CLASS OF 2023 RANKINGS: Rivals250 | Position | Team | State
RIVALS TRANSFER TRACKER: Stories/coverage | Message board
RIVALS CAMP SERIES: Info/coverage on 2021 camp series
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12. DL Keeshawn Silver/Jahvaree Ritzie, North Carolina
The skinny: There wasn’t any way to separate the two, as both will forever be connected as elite defensive linemen who arrived in Chapel Hill together. The Tar Heels, who had their fair share of struggles on the defensive line in 2020, do return a majority of the players at the position, but even with that both Silver and Ritzie should be given every opportunity to make a big impact in 2021. Silver has the greater buzz right now, but both should shine.
Farrell’s take: It’s too hard to separate these two so for the first time ever I’m lumping two players into one in my Farrell Freshman 15. Both players will immediately help the pass rush for North Carolina which is much, much needed and both have physical skills to play early.
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11. RB Raheim Sanders, Arkansas
The skinny: Sanders was recruited as an “athlete” and arrived on campus as a wide receiver but was quickly moved to running back during the spring. Since that time, he has added upwards of 15 pounds to his frame while continuing to impress with his speed and athleticism. The fans saw glimpses of Sanders’ potential during the spring, and it looks like they’ll get to see more of him this fall as the Razorbacks will find ways to get him the ball during the fall.
Farrell’s take: Sanders is a beast and one of the most versatile players in the 2021 class so it’s no surprise he’s already impressing at Arkansas. He’s a powerful kid and will be able to handle the SEC pounding early.
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11. DB Ga'Quincy McKinstry, Alabama
The skinny: While there is no lack of talent or depth in the secondary in Tuscaloosa, there is an early opportunity for McKinstry to make an impact at cornerback. He impressed during the spring game, which included an interception during the spring game, and this summer. He has brought the confidence of an upperclassman with him to campus. He will also get a long look as a punt returner.
Farrell’s take: Kool-Aid has made a name for himself with his Name, Image, Likeness deal but he was a five-star for a reason and we will see that talent not only as a defensive back but as a return man as well.
