Is it possible that a player of notoriety and acclaim as high as DE Will Anderson could still be underrated? A National Champion, Unanimous All-American, winner of every major defensive award & honor imaginable, standout for the best program in the nation, & projected top 2023 draft pick, Anderson has accomplished virtually all there is at the colligate level. In fact, there’s a strong case to be made that he could end his career as the greatest defensive lineman in college football history. Along with his on field dominance, I’d be remiss if I didn’t highlight his off field excellence as well. He’s a heralded leader and community staple. Anderson also holds a great reputation as a student. He’s everything you could want from the leader of your team. It’s also safe to say we’ve rarely heard Nick Saban speak so highly of a player. Particularly as early on as he did with Anderson. Will Anderson Jr checks every box.
Anderson’s teammate QB Bryce Young, who had a historic year, ended up winning the Heisman Trophy by a considerable margin. You’d be disingenuous to argue the validity of the voters’ decision. However, the fact that Anderson finished fifth in voting for the most prestigious honor in college athletics is laughable. An example of a similar situation is DT Ndamukong Suh in 2009. He had a historic year at Nebraska and finished 4th in Heisman voting. Taking into account the history of the award, you’d expect the offensive player to win. The Heisman has practically become an offensive award. Subsequently, you can without a doubt call Will Anderson underrated in the grand scheme. Will Anderson is the best & most impactful player in college football & yet, at the same time, underrated. After all, if a guy that checks every box like Anderson does can’t sway the status quo, who can?