Ashton Jeanty and Garrett Nussmeier Headline Week 9 Players to Watch

By Ty Scheiner

Heading into Week 9, we’ll start to see some teams separate themselves within their conferences as several games this weekend will impact the standings. One of the best parts of this season is the parity: Whether it’s P4 matchups or G5 games, they still hold significance for conference titles and playoff berths. Here are three players I’m keeping an eye on for Week 9.

Ashton Jeanty Set to Shine Friday with G5 Stakes High

I know I can preview Jeanty every week, but this week might be one of the biggest G5 games in recent memory. The contest has both Mountain West Conference and, more importantly, G5 implications. In addition, the Heisman is still within reach for Jeanty as long as he continues his historic season. He’s leading the nation with 1,248 rushing yards, tied for 2nd with 17 rushing touchdowns, and averaging 9.9 yards per carry. On the flip side, UNLV has the best defense in the conference when it comes to rushing yards allowed, only allowing 104.4 yards per game on the ground. Boise State goes as Jeanty goes, and if he has a big game that probably means the Broncos have a big game and keep their G5 hopes alive. With the contest Friday night, it’s a prime opportunity for those who haven’t seen Jeanty finally witness his talent firsthand.

Sep 28, 2024; Boise, Idaho, USA; Boise State Broncos running back Ashton Jeanty (2) strikes the Heisman pose during the second half against the Washington State Cougars at Albertsons Stadium. Boise State defeats Washington State 45-24.

Trey Amos Leads Ole Miss Defense vs. Struggling Oklahoma Offense

We know Oklahoma hasn’t lived up to expectations this season, with their lackluster offensive production leading to Venables firing Seth Littrell. Now, the Sooners are going up against a solid Ole Miss defense this weekend, featuring one of the nation’s top cornerbacks. The Sooner offense ranks at the bottom of the SEC, averaging only 176 passing yards per game, with Jackson Arnold posting a 57% completion rate. Trey Amos leads the league with nine passes defended and is tied for 3rd with three interceptions. The Rebels excel at getting to the quarterback, recording 24 sacks so far. If they continue to apply pressure upfront, I think it will force Arnold into making poor decisions. This could give Amos and the rest of the Ole Miss secondary plenty of opportunities to capitalize and have a busy day on Saturday.

Sep 28, 2024; Oxford, Mississippi, USA; Mississippi Rebels defensive back Trey Amos (9) breaks up a pass intended for Kentucky Wildcats wide receiver Dane Key (6) during the first half at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium.

Garrett Nussmeier Key to LSU’s Offensive Success Against Texas A&M

Another big SEC battle for sole possession of first place is set for this weekend between the Tigers and Aggies at Kyle Field. Garrett Nussmeier ranks 6th in the nation with 2,222 passing yards, 7th with 18 passing touchdowns, and has only been sacked twice. The Aggies are 6th in total defense in the SEC, allowing 209 passing yards and 17.7 points per game. LSU’s offensive line has protected Nussmeier very well this season. If they can keep him upright, the LSU offense should have a productive day. On the flip side, if Texas A&M’s defensive front can pressure Nussmeier, force him out of the pocket, and disrupt his comfort zone, it could be a long day for him and the Tigers’ offense. A&M’s run defense is solid and LSU is ranked near the bottom in rushing offense. I think this game will come down to how well Nussmeier performs.