Travis Hunter, WR/CB, Colorado
The hype around the Deion Sanders-led program has dwindled, but Travis Hunter is a legitimate star. He ended his CU debut with 57 receptions for 721 yards and five touchdowns, also notching 30 tackles and three interceptions despite not playing in three games.
Ollie Gordon II, RB, Oklahoma State
Early in the season, Ollie Gordon II held a backup role. He'd managed 19 carries through three weeks. From there, though, he exploded onto the national radar and ended the season with an FBS-leading 1,732 rushing yards. He also caught 39 passes for 330 yards and a score. Gordon's 21 rushing touchdowns trailed only Michigan's Blake Corum.
Quinshon Judkins, RB, Ohio State
This one comes with a significant asterisk. Quinshon Judkins, a two-year star at Ole Miss, has transferred to Ohio State. If he's the featured back, he deserves a mention. If he's splitting snaps with TreVeyon Henderson—who could pursue the NFL—the Buckeyes would have an absurdly talented backfield that probably doesn't win awards.
Trevor Etienne, RB, Georgia
At least mention him, right? The brother of former Clemson star Travis Etienne, Trevor Etienne spent his first two years at Florida. He scampered for 700-plus yards at 5.7 per carry or better in both seasons. Etienne has since transferred to Georgia, where his upside is that of a featured ball-carrier on a championship-worthy team.
