True freshmen continue to make big impact, even on top teams

Some of the top teams in the country relied on true freshmen this past season, and quite a few might be doing much of the same in the 2018 season. As signing day approaches, some of the players putting their names on the dotted line could be starring on the field in August.

Without the 2017 recruiting class, we might have seen a completely different outcome in the national championship game. Alabama’s leaders in passing, receiving and rushing were all true freshmen, and they all played large roles in the overtime win for the Tide.

Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, receiver DeVonta Smith and running back Najee Harris all helped Alabama beat a Georgia team that was also led by a true freshman at…