By Mark Pszonak
Everyone knows about the success that Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter have enjoyed at Colorado since their transfer from Jackson State, but they aren’t the only second-year FCS transfers who are excelling this season. Here are five who have become vital parts of their team in 2024:
Cam Skattebo, Arizona State (Sacramento State)
Skattebo had a good first season with the Sun Devils, rushing for 783 yards and nine touchdowns, while also grabbing 24 receptions for 286 yards and one touchdown. This season he has become the main back in Tempe and has flourished. Already with 773 yards and eight touchdowns on the ground and 19 receptions for 250 yards through the air in six games, he has become an integral part of Arizona State’s surprising 5-1 start.
Jayden Higgins, Iowa State (Eastern Kentucky)
Higgins was one of the biggest surprises for the Cyclones last season with 53 receptions for 983 yards and six touchdowns. He is on pace to better his output this season with 39 receptions for 505 yards and five touchdowns through six games. On top of that he has helped Iowa State to a 6-0 start, a #9 ranking and is part of one of the more underrated wide receiver duos in the country along with Jaylin Noel.
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Bhayshul Tuten, Virginia Tech (North Carolina A&T)
Tuten is a quick and powerful back who is starting to get the attention he deserves this season. He showcased his potential in 2023 with 863 yards and 10 touchdowns on the ground but is in the process of an All-ACC season in 2024 with 605 yards and nine touchdowns through six games. Look for him to get even more work as the season progresses.
Andrew Armstrong, Arkansas (Texas A&M-Commerce)
Armstrong was a bigtime addition for the Razorbacks last season who continues to improve. After being an immediate contributor in 2023 with 56 receptions for 764 yards and five touchdowns he is now a vital part of the offense with 38 receptions for 552 yards through only five games. Surprisingly he is still looking for his first touchdown reception this season, but that will come as he is averaging 110.4 yards per game.
Ajani Cornelius, Oregon (Rhode Island)
In this first season with the Ducks, Cornelius started all 14 games at right tackle and earned All-PAC 12 Honorable Mention honors. He considered entering the NFL draft during the spring, but instead decided to return for one more season to boost his stock. And that seems to have been a good decision as he is currently seen as a second-round selection after further improving his game in 2024.
