Top 10 college football freshmen through Week 2

While the early returns from the transfer portal have captured much attention, plenty of true freshmen have made immediate impacts in 2024.

We have seen highly touted prospects turn into nationally recognized names and statistical leaders in a matter of weeks. But there are also less-heralded names stepping up at key positions for top-ranked programs.

While it’s still early, here’s a look at the top 10 (plus one) freshmen this season.

1. WR Jeremiah Smith, Ohio State

The hype in Columbus started building when Smith dominated spring ball, and it’s not slowing down any time soon. The former five-star and No. 4 overall player in the 2024 class is averaging more than 100 yards per game and 19.2 yards per catch in his first two collegiate starts. He can turn a short pass into a big gain or make the acrobatic grab in the air look natural. Smith is a legit Heisman contender for the third-ranked Buckeyes.

2. QB Dylan Raiola, Nebraska

The top-ranked pocket passer quarterback from last year’s recruiting class flipped his commitment from Georgia to Nebraska believing he could make a bigger impact in Lincoln. So far, so good. Raiola has developed into a leader of the No. 23 Cornhuskers. He looks far from a freshman in making the difficult transition from high school to college. Raiola is playing clean football (zero interceptions) with good productivity and execution (423 yards, three touchdown passes). He has completed 74% of his passes and is moving inside the pocket with the presence of steady veteran.

3. DE Dylan Stewart, South Carolina

Stewart hinted at potential future dominance in an exceptional showing as a senior at last January’s Under Armour All-America Game. However, he has accelerated the timeline through his first two weeks playing in college. The 6-foot-6, 248-pound edge has 2.5 sacks and two forced fumbles for the 2-0 Gamecocks, who upset Kentucky on Saturday. But it’s not just the stat line that stands out for Stewart — it’s how he’s getting after the quarterback. The total repertoire has been on display. He’s beating tackles off the ball with first-step burst, around the edge with flexibility and going through them with explosive power.

4. WR Ryan Williams, Alabama

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Ryan Williams tiptoes down the sideline for a Bama TD