In the world of College Football, it’s rare to see a true freshmen play early, much less make a big impact on the field. However, there are always exceptions, especially during this season. Here are the top freshman who’ve played early on and made an impact throughout week 8.
Richard Reese, RB, Baylor
A former three-star prospect out of Bellville (Texas) High, Richard Reese has been nothing short of great for Baylor’s offense. In a 35-23 win over Kansas, Reese rushed for 186 yards and two touchdowns on 31 carries, while also catching two receptions for 26 yards. His first touchdown came early on in the first quarter on a 14-yard run to the end zone. Again in the fourth quarter, Reese was able to find the end zone for a second time on a two yard rushing touchdown.
The true freshman already looks like the next big time running back out of Baylor. Reese has the fifth-most rushing yards (643), and third-most rushing touchdowns (9) in the Big 12 as a freshman. His vision and shiftiness will be a strong fit for the Bear’s zone running scheme.
Harold Perkins, LB, LSU
Week in and week out, Harold Perkins continues to show why he’s one of the best true freshmen in college football. In LSU’s 45-20 win over No. 7 Ole Miss, the former five star wrecked havoc against the Rebels’ offense, recording five total tackles, one sack, one pass break-up and three quarterback hurries. Defensive coordinator Matt House was able to take advantage of Perkin’s elite speed and instincts, employing the true freshman as a Qb spy and rusher. Post game, Ole Miss head coach Lane Kiffin credited LSU’s defensive success to Perkin’s presence on the field.
Got ‘em! LSU’s Perkins with the sack on Dart, forcing a field goal. Ole Miss leads 20-17. #LSU #OleMiss #CFB pic.twitter.com/8dtlN75G6n
— Swapty Sports (@SwaptySports) October 22, 2022
Perkins is still improving and learning his position. Head coach Brian Kelly mentioned how his role is still limited on defense, but over time should only increase as he continues to develop.
Damien Martinez, RB, Oregon State
In a 42-9 victory against Colorado, Oregon State running back Damien Martinez posted a career game. The former three star from Lewisville (Texas) High, rushed for 178 yards and three touchdowns on 22 carries, while also hauling in a reception for 10 yards. Martinez’s performance earned him a spot of PFF’s Team of the Week.
As Martinez continues to learn the Beaver’s offense, his role and impact will only increase.
Luther Burden, WR, Mizzou
The Missouri native was named the SEC’s co-freshman of the week. The former five star recruit started off with a multi-touchdown performance to start the season, but has since missed time with an injury. Burden returned for Mizzou’s 17-14 win against Vandy, catching four passes for a career 66 yards, including a screen pass he took for 35 yards for a touchdown. He later scored on a 10-yard run and added a 29-yard punt.
#SECFB 𝐏𝐋𝐀𝐘𝐄𝐑 𝐎𝐅 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐖𝐄𝐄𝐊
ᴄᴏ-ꜰʀᴇꜱʜᴍᴀɴLuther Burden III • @MizzouFootball
🔗 https://t.co/ngvyM1HDEh pic.twitter.com/B1zJNiQyai
— Southeastern Conference (@SEC) October 24, 2022
Now that he’s healthy, Burden will continue to emerge as the Tigers look to get him down the field more.
AJ Haulcy, DB, New Mexico
In a 41-9 loss against Fresno State, New Mexico found their long term solution at safety in AJ Haulcy. The former three star prospect from Fort Bend Marshall (Texas) had a career night, posting 24 total tackles, 0.5 tackle for loss, and an interception returned for 38 yards. His performance has earned him a 89.9 safety grade, which ranks second among all safeties who’ve played at least 20% of their team’s defensive snaps.
Jake Saltonstall with the pressure, A.J. Haulcy with the INT!#GoLobos pic.twitter.com/5HYCngOSaV
— New Mexico Football (@UNMLoboFB) October 23, 2022
Haulcy has posted a Lobo-best 61 tackles and two interceptions, to go along with 2.5 tackles for loss, two forced fumbles and three pass breakups so far this season. He’s done a little bit of everything for the New Mexico defense.