Farrell Freshman 15: Counting down Nos. 10-12
Mark Pszonak contributed to this report.
The annual Farrell Freshman 15 mid-season version is out and today we look at 12-10 led by a former five-star cornerback.
MIDSEASON FARRELL 15: Nos. 13-15
The skinny: Hartman made a commitment to Wake Forest during the summer leading up to his junior season and never wavered on his word. His older brother had played in Winston-Salem, which helped the Demon Deacons with his recruitment.
Hartman looked in line to be battling for the back-up spot behind Kendall Hinton, but when Hinton was suspended for the first three games, Hartman took over the job and played like a veteran. Having passed for 1,259 yards and 10 touchdowns, Wake Forest seems to have found their quarterback for the present and future.
Farrell’s take: Hartman was a mid-three star prospect out of high school who was not heavily recruited at all mainly due to a lack of size. We had him as 6-foot-1 and 165 pounds coming out and that was the big issues despite having a solid career and good arm strength. He showed off some of his skills at the Shrine Bowl of the Carolinas but nothing to make us think he’d be so successful as a true freshman in college. He’s been a nice surprise for Wake Forest.
The skinny: Mays initially committed to the in-state Vols, but eventually re-opened his process. Clemson quickly became the frontrunner heading down the stretch, however an official visit to Georgia put the Bulldogs over the top in late December. Playing time wasn’t guaranteed for Mays this season, but injuries to both Andrew Thomas and Ben Cleveland have seen him impress at left tackle and then right guard.
Farrell’s take: Mays was a five-star known for his aggressive attitude and physical nature out of high school. The former Vols commitment ended up choosing Georgia and has been the best true freshman offensive lineman in the country. This is no surprise to us as we had him as a five-star pretty early and a guy who projected as a right tackle or a guard.
The skinny: Surtain took official visits to Alabama, Clemson, Miami and LSU before committing to the Tide during the February Signing Day. LSU was thought to have the slight edge heading into his decision, but Alabama pulled off the big recruiting win at the end.
With some playing opportunity available at Alabama this season, Surtain has taken advantage and already become an important part of the positional rotation. So far with 15 tackles, four pass break-ups, one interception and one forced fumble, look for him to receive increased playing time through the end of the season.
Farrell’s take: Surtain was a five-star with length, size and great instincts, so it’s no surprise to see him have so much success early. Out of high school it was clear he had great bloodlines, was well-coached and knew the position very well. He filled a need right away at Alabama and is on his way to an amazing career.
