CFB: SCOUTING NOTEBOOK WEEK 1
After an extended week of college football, the scouting notebook comes to you a day later than normal. The Sunday kickoff between LSU and Florida State put a neat cherry on top of the season’s great start.
We won’t rake over the same prospects that got the majority of headlines this weekend. You don’t need me to tell you how impressive Keon Coleman was for the Seminoles or highlight Colorado’s impressive victory against TCU.
So, let’s look at the other names that started the season hot.
All stats provided by Pro Football Focus.
It’s in the blood
The Elliss family is enjoying plenty of limelight at the moment. Father Luther was a ten-year NFL veteran who now coaches the defensive tackles at Utah. Sons Kaden and Christian are on the Falcons and Eagles rosters, respectively.
On Thursday night, younger brother Jonah announced himself to a bigger audience. He came up with key plays as the Utes took down Florida in the season opener. His two sacks came in big spots, and he showed great speed off the edge.
Jonah Elliss stunting to perfection 🔥pic.twitter.com/CpjxyXVzGK
— Cam Mellor (@CamMellor) September 1, 2023
He had four sacks as a sophomore and looks set to have another strong season. His size is less than ideal at 6’2, 245lbs, and he may follow his brothers in becoming a linebacker, but for now, the Utes will look to make the most of his pass-rushing instincts.
Louisville’s Thrash shines to take down Georgia Tech
On Friday night, Louisville had greater difficulty dealing with Georgia Tech than expected. A big part of their win was wide receiver Jamari Thrash. The former leading receiver in the Sun Belt moved to Louisville this offseason, and it was clear why the Cardinals wanted him.
His Louisville debut saw him targeted nine times, with seven receptions for 88 yards and two touchdowns. Thrash’s elusivity and speed were clear, and it caused a major headache for the Georgia Tech defenders. He will be a key weapon for Jack Plummer going forward.
The name’s Bond
Jalen Milroe surprised many with his strong display at Quarterback for Alabama. When Tyler Buchner transferred in, it was suspected that Milroe was not looking the part in training camp. However, late developments in fall camp meant he got the first start of the season.
He grasped the opportunity, throwing for three touchdowns and running for two. The other major question was who Milroe’s favourite target would be. The Crimson Tide have had plenty of elite talent at receiver. However, last year, there wasn’t a clear standout. On Saturday, the leading receiver was sophomore Isaiah Bond.
Bond took 60% of his snaps from the slot and was 5 out of 5 for 76 yards and a touchdown. Jermaine Burton is the most experienced receiver, while Ja’Corey Brooks was most people’s favourite to be WR1. That said, Bond has the talent to be the next man up in this offense and combine with Milroe to propel Alabama to the playoffs.
Any other business
Here are a few other names who had solid week-one performances:
Aaron Casey, Indiana
The Indiana defense proved tricky for Ohio State and new QB Kyle McCord. It was led by middle linebacker Casey, who recorded 11 tackles. He flew around the field all afternoon and, although in his sixth year, is a name to keep an eye on.
Amari Gainer, Florida State
The Florida State transfer successfully transitioned to edge defender and forms a dynamic duo with Kaimon Rucker. He accounted for two sacks against South Carolina.
Nathan Carter – We’re still waiting on Jalen Berger to break out at Michigan State but it was another transfer that assumed the lead-back role at the weekend. Nathan Carter, formerly of UConn, ran for 113 yards at over 6 per carry as the Spartans dominated Central Michigan.
