WR Nic Anderson – Oklahoma
The skinny: After redshirting as a true freshman last season and grabbing only two receptions in the first two games in 2023, Anderson jumped into the spotlight on Saturday during a 66-17 victory over Tulsa. While he only had three receptions, all three went for touchdowns and totaled 120 yards. With the Sooners starting Big 12 play this weekend against Cincinnati, having Anderson develop into another reliable weapon for quarterback Dillon Gabriel would got a long way in helping the team rebound after a disappointing 2023 season.
RB Jonathon Brooks – Texas
The skinny: The Longhorns look poised to have a big season, but in order to do so a reliable rushing attack would need to establish itself. Saturday was a big step in accomplishing that as Brooks rushed for a career-high 164 yards on 21 carries during a 31-10 victory over Wyoming. He has flashed potential previously, but now he seems to be putting everything together in Austin.
DB Daquan Evans – USF
The skinny: It is not often that a player breaks out during their fifth season, but after Evans’ performance during a 17-3 loss to Alabama that may be the case in Tampa. Finishing with eight tackles, four tackles for a loss, three sacks and one pass breakup, he spearheaded a unit that kept the Bulls in the game throughout. Despite the loss, the Bulls now have some momentum as they head into games against Rice, Navy and UAB.
TE Michael Harrison – Colorado
The skinny: Not that the Buffaloes truly needed another offensive weapon, but when Travis Hunter went down with an injury against Colorado State, Harrison quickly stepped up. Having totaled four receptions through the first two games, he finished Saturday with seven receptions for 76 yards, his first two touchdowns, and a two-point conversion during a memorable double overtime victory. With Hunter out for a couple of weeks, look for Harrison to further establish himself in the offense.
LB Easton Mascarenas-Arnold – Oregon State
The skinny: Mascarenas-Arnold showcased plenty of potential during a promising sophomore season. Then when Omar Speights entered the transfer portal, his further development became more of a priority for what was already a strong defensive unit. All of that came together on Saturday during a 26-9 victory over San Diego State when he finished with a team-leading and career-high 13 tackles. With games quickly approaching against powerful offenses like Washington State, UCLA, Colorado, Washington and Oregon, his continued improvement will be vital.
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