As the regular season is at its midpoint, it’s time to update the Farrell Freshman 15, the top 15 true freshmen in the country. Here’s Nos. 1-3.
Mark Pszonak contributed to this report.
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MIDSEASON FARRELL FRESHMAN 15: Nos. 4-6 | 7-9 | 10-12 | 13-15
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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3. RB Jarquez Hunter, Auburn
The skinny: Coming into the 2021 season Tank Bigsby was thought to be the unquestioned leader of Auburn’s rushing attack and a darkhorse candidate for the Heisman Trophy. And while he has rushed for 430 yards and four touchdowns, it has been Hunter’s performance that has gained the most attention. Hunter has been dynamic for the Tigers, rushing for 465 yards and three touchdowns while averaging 9.9 yards per carry (compared to Bigsby’s 5.5). Hunter has also added eight receptions for 42 yards.
Farrell’s take: Hunter is an example of a player who wasn’t scouted enough because of COVID last year, and he’s emerged as one of the young stars of the SEC. His athleticism is off the charts and he can make anyone miss.
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2. TE Brock Bowers, Georgia Â
The skinny: If there was an award for the most surprising true freshman in the country Bowers would win by a landslide. Bowers leads the undefeated Bulldogs in receptions (20), receiving yards (315) and receiving touchdowns (four), and he even has a 12-yard rushing touchdown. While the Georgia defense has dominated the news coming out of Athens, it is Bowers who has quickly made a name for himself on the offensive side of the ball.
Farrell’s take: Bowers stepped in right away and filled a much-needed void in the Georgia offense. He’s also ruined it for anyone who believes UGA doesn’t use the tight end enough. He’s been an instant impact star on offense.
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1. RB TreVeyon Henderson, Ohio State
The skinny: There was a bit of debate before the season began about who would lead the Ohio State running attack this fall. And while many believed it would eventually be Henderson, nobody knew when that would happen. Well, it didn’t take very long, and since Henderson has become the main back he has exploded with 612 yards and nine touchdowns while averaging 8.7 yards per carry. He has also added two receiving touchdowns.
Farrell’s take: Henderson came in with a lot of hype, and he’s lived up to it and then some. We were criticized for not having him as a five-star, and that’s certainly looking like a big mistake. He has explosive speed.
