By JC Nevils
Every year players come out of nowhere and burst
onto the scene to take heed of their respective teams. They may have
been injured, redshirted, or just sitting in the wings waiting their
turn, but either way, they show up and show out when given their
shot. Let’s check out some SEC players who fit the bill.
1. QB Nico Iamaleava, Tennessee
As a true freshman, the California signal caller sat behind Joe Milton III to begin his career, but everyone knew it would only
be a matter of time before people would get their first glance at
him. That chance came in Tennessee’s bowl game against Iowa
where he would put the entire nation on notice.
Iamaleava finished the
game throwing for 151 yards with a passing score and three more
touchdowns on the ground to earn the game’s MVP honors. That was only the
beginning ladies and gentlemen. Look for more from Iamaleava this year.
NICO IAMALEAVA QB scramble for SIX. 🤯📈pic.twitter.com/Z2XO9edzWX
— Rocky Top Now (@rockytopnow) January 1, 2024
2. RB Jeremiah Cobb, Auburn
Coming out of high school Cobb was highly touted in not
only the state of Alabama, but the nation as well. He ranked as the No. 9 back in the country and the state’s top back. He certainly showed why in his first
season and gave showed major glimpses of his talents.
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Cobb ended the
season rushing for two touchdowns on an average of 5.2
yards per carry on limited touches. This upcoming season, he should be
the lead back, and I expect him to
take full advantage.
Auburn true freshman ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ running back Jeremiah Cobb scores from 42 yds out to put Auburn up 52-7 over UMass #WarEagle pic.twitter.com/ICUCBJDNMC
— Power of Dixieland (@PwrofDixieland) September 2, 2023
3. LB Raylen Wilson, Georgia
After only playing in five games the previous season, Raylen Wilson showed what he could do whenever he
touched the field with his freakish athleticism. After star linebacker Jamon Dumas-Johnson unexpectedly transferred to Kentucky this
offseason, the Bulldogs will need another counterpart besides Smael Mondon Jr.
That’s where Wilson comes in. I expect him to take
off and run with his opportunity fully. He may very well be the next
great one in line for Georgia.
Few and far between have the skill set Raylen Wilson has! 💯 Rare breed pic.twitter.com/qwRA3O4ClH
— Thumser (@JeffreyThumser) February 18, 2024
4. RB Reuben Owens, Texas A&M
Coming into last season getting Reuben Owens to sign was
a major coop for ex-head coach Jimbo Fisher. He was the top-rated
running back in his class, and his talent certainly warrants that.
Owens showed glimpses of his play rushing for 385 yards and three
touchdowns. This upcoming season should be his coming out party
as he is next in line to take over for the Aggies in the backfield. Keep
an eye out folks.
Reuben Owens ties it up for Texas A&M!#GigEm #CollegeFootball
— CFB Saturday Slate w/ Mick N Bus (@CFB_SatSlate) October 28, 2023
5. WR Jelani Watkins, LSU
As the only true freshman on the list, you have to be special
right? You would be correct. Jelani Watkins is one of those players
that has to be on the field. He is that dangerous
with the ball in his hands. Watkins’ speed is unmatched as he recently just ran a
blazing 10.19 in the 100-meter dash, taking the 6A title in Texas.
While track speed doesn’t translate to football, I believe Watkins’ will because he is a
pure football player who can blow by you. He reminds me a lot
of Percy Harvin back at Florida where he burst onto the scene. I see
him making plays early and often, especially with the departures in
the receiver room for the Tigers.
Track and football star Jelani Watkins just committed to LSU@LSUTrackField 👀
— RoriDunk (@FitzDunk) August 4, 2023
