Michigan’s Blake Corum pictured above. Photo by Eric Bronson.
The College Football Playoff is fast approaching and I can’t wait. Some of you may have varying levels of knowledge about the players on each of the four teams, so I am here to help! Here are five players to watch, in no particular order.
Micheal Penix Jr.: Quarterback, Washington
2023 Stats: 65.9 CMP% / 4,218 Passing Yds / 33 Passing TDs / 9 INTs
In order to be in this College Football Playoff, Washington not only needed a QB with talent, but one who would be able to execute in late-game situations. Penix did just that, guiding the Huskies through seven one-possession games en route to a perfect 13-0 record while throwing 4,218 yards and 33 TDs in the process. I think the Huskies defense will struggle in this game, so I’d expect Penix to be throwing the ball early and often in order to catch up on the scoreboard.
Jalen Milroe: Quarterback, Alabama
2023 Stats: 65.5 CMP% / 2,718 Passing Yds / 36 Passing TDs / 6 INTs / 140 Carries / 648 Rushing Yds / 12 Rushing TDs
Milroe was my favorite player to watch in college football this year. He’s a dual-threat QB who can really make something out of nothing. But unlike some players who like to extend plays like Milroe, he isn’t reckless. He knows when to push the ball down the field, knows when to throw it out of bounds, etc. Without his heroics at the Iron Bowl and all season really, Alabama quite simply wouldn’t be here.
Caleb Downs: Safety, Alabama
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