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Top 5 True Freshmen from Week 1

What newcomers shined in the first full weekend of college football?

Mark Pszonak| September 6, 2022 (Updated: July 9, 2025)
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Nov 5
Nov 5

DB Malaki Starks – Georgia

Starks turned in an epic performance during his first college game with a team-leading eight tackles and interception during the Bulldogs’ smothering victory over Oregon.

Malachi Starks is going to be a star! ⭐️ pic.twitter.com/6L8Ir4vbb4

— OutOfSightSports?™️ (@OOSSports) September 4, 2022


WR Jayden McGowan – Vanderbilt

The 2-0 Commodores have shown a dynamic offense through the early part of this season, with McGowan being a major part of that. He showed off his big play ability on Saturday with four receptions for 118 yards and one touchdown, which came from 75 yards.

First career TD for @jay3mg.#AnchorDown pic.twitter.com/69dQwcmuo0

— Vanderbilt Football (@VandyFootball) September 3, 2022


RB Jaydn Ott – Cal

There was plenty of buzz in the preseason about Ott and he did not disappoint in his collegiate debut with 104 yards on 17 carries. He also added 26 yards on two receptions, which included his first touchdown with the Golden Bears.

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RB CJ Donaldson – West Virginia

Donaldson turned in one of the more surprising performances of the weekend with 125 yards and one touchdown on only seven carries. It will be interesting to see how his workload progresses in the coming weeks.


LB Dasan McCullough – Indiana

There were plenty of expectations surrounding McCullough coming into this season and after totaling six tackles and a tackle for a loss in the opener, they will continue to grow. 

Category: FeaturedTag: Austin Peay, Cal, CJ Donaldson, Dasan McCullough, Georgia, Indiana, Jadyn Ott, Jayden McGowan, Malaki Starks, Vanderbilt
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