Ranking the Top 10 Offensive Players in the Big 12: A Deep Dive into the 2024 Season
As we gear up for the 2024 college football season, the Big 12 Conference is brimming with offensive talent poised to make waves across the country. From explosive running backs to game-changing wide receivers and dynamic quarterbacks, this conference showcases some of the best in the nation. But who truly stands out among the elite? Today, we’ll break down the top 10 offensive players in the Big 12, highlighting their potential impact on the upcoming season.
10. LT Wyatt Milum (West Virginia)
Let’s kick things off with an offensive lineman—a position often overshadowed but crucial to a team’s success. West Virginia’s Wyatt Milum, the standout left tackle, earns a spot on our list for good reason. While offensive linemen might not always grab headlines, Milum’s contributions are hard to overlook. Over the past two seasons, Milum has been a rock for the Mountaineers, allowing zero sacks and demonstrating exceptional pass protection. His performances have not only solidified his place as a cornerstone of West Virginia’s offensive line but have also elevated his NFL draft stock. With a projected early second-round selection, a strong 2024 season could very well propel him into the first round. Milum’s consistency and skill make him a key player to watch, even if he doesn’t often get the spotlight.
9. WR Kobe Hudson (UCF)
UCF’s Kobe Hudson is a game-changing wide receiver who consistently makes big plays. Last season, Hudson ranked third in the Big 12 in yards per catch, averaging an impressive 20.5 yards on just 44 receptions. Despite UCF’s head coach Gus Malzahn favoring a run-heavy offense, Hudson’s ability to stretch the field makes him a significant threat. As the Knights look to diversify their attack in 2024, Hudson is set to become the go-to target for quarterback John Rhys Plumlee. Expect Hudson to see an increase in targets and, consequently, in production. His explosive playmaking ability will be a crucial element for UCF as they seek to make noise in the conference.
8. RB Devin Neal (Kansas)
Kansas running back Devin Neal is one of the most electrifying players in the Big 12. With a knack for breaking off big runs and a nose for the end zone, Neal has established himself as a premier playmaker. Last season, he averaged 6.3 yards per carry and racked up 1,280 rushing yards, finding the end zone 16 times. Neal’s explosive speed and agility make him a nightmare for defenders, and with an improved Kansas offense around him, he’s poised to surpass his previous numbers. The Jayhawks will rely heavily on Neal’s ability to create big plays and sustain drives, making him one of the top offensive threats in the conference.
7. QB Noah Fifita (Arizona)
Arizona’s Noah Fifita had a remarkable redshirt freshman season, displaying the poise and accuracy of a seasoned veteran. Completing an astonishing 72% of his passes, Fifita led the Wildcats to a 10-3 record, showcasing his potential as a future star. Comparisons to former Alabama quarterback Bryce Young are certainly flattering, but while Fifita has shown great promise, it’s important to temper expectations. However, his high completion rate and playmaking ability make him a significant player to watch. As he continues to develop, Fifita could very well cement himself as one of the top quarterbacks in the country.
6. QB Garrett Greene (West Virginia)
West Virginia’s Garrett Greene is arguably the most underrated player in the Big 12. While his completion percentage of 53% might seem underwhelming, it’s essential to consider the context. The Mountaineers often utilized deep passes, and Greene’s willingness to throw the ball away rather than forcing risky throws speaks to his football intelligence. He finished the season with 16 passing touchdowns and just four interceptions, along with 13 additional scores on the ground. Greene’s dual-threat capability and strategic play make him a valuable asset for West Virginia. If he can improve his accuracy and continue to make smart decisions, Greene could emerge as one of the conference’s top quarterbacks.
5. RB Tahj Brooks (Texas Tech)
Texas Tech’s Tahj Brooks is a force to be reckoned with in the Big 12. Known for his physical running style and ability to break tackles, Brooks is a standout performer in the Red Raiders’ backfield. Rushing for 1,538 yards last season, he finished just behind Ollie Gordon in the conference rushing leaderboard. Brooks’ blend of power and agility allows him to grind out tough yards between the tackles while also being capable of bouncing runs outside. His relentless running style and ability to contribute in both the ground game and pass protection make him a key player for Texas Tech in 2024.
4. RB RJ Harvey (UCF)
UCF’s RJ Harvey is one of the most intriguing and underrated running backs in college football. Despite his smaller stature, Harvey’s physical running style makes him a formidable force between the tackles. Last season, he rushed for 1,416 yards and scored 16 touchdowns, demonstrating his ability to be a game-changer. Harvey’s journey from a quarterback at Virginia to a top running back at UCF is a testament to his versatility and determination. His combination of speed and power makes him a valuable asset for the Knights, and he’s poised to make an even bigger impact in 2024.
3. WR Tetairoa McMillan (Arizona)
Arizona’s Tetairoa McMillan is a name to watch closely as the 2024 season unfolds. Entering the season on the preseason Biletnikoff Award watchlist, McMillan is one of the premier wide receivers in college football. Last year, he caught 90 passes for 1,402 yards and 10 touchdowns, showcasing his ability to be a reliable and explosive target. McMillan’s route running, hands, and after-the-catch ability make him a dynamic playmaker who can change the course of a game. With Noah Fifita as his quarterback, McMillan is set to build on his impressive performance from last season and make a strong case for national recognition.
2. QB Shedeur Sanders (Colorado)
Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders is undeniably one of the most talented quarterbacks in the Big 12, if not the country. His impressive skill set and potential make him a standout player heading into the 2024 season. Sanders has the ability to put up big numbers and lead his team with poise and precision. However, the Buffaloes have significant roster holes that could put added pressure on Sanders to perform. Despite the potential challenges, Sanders’ talent and ability to make plays will keep him in the spotlight. He’s expected to be a top candidate for the first quarterback selected in the upcoming NFL draft, and his performance in 2024 will be closely scrutinized.
1. RB Ollie Gordon (Oklahoma State)
Topping our list is Oklahoma State’s Ollie Gordon, the reigning standout of the Big 12. Gordon’s performance last season was nothing short of spectacular, rushing for 1,732 yards and 21 touchdowns. His remarkable ability to find the end zone and carry the workload for the Cowboys earned him a seventh-place finish in the Heisman Trophy voting. As long as he stays healthy, Gordon is expected to be a finalist for the Heisman again this season. His combination of power, speed, and vision makes him the premier running back in the conference and a key player to watch as Oklahoma State looks to contend for the Big 12 title.
The Big 12 Conference is home to a plethora of offensive talent heading into the 2024 season. From explosive running backs like Ollie Gordon and RJ Harvey to dynamic wide receivers such as Tetairoa McMillan and Kobe Hudson, the league promises to deliver thrilling performances. Quarterbacks Noah Fifita, Garrett Greene, and Shedeur Sanders bring their own unique styles and potential to the table, making the quarterback position one to watch closely.
As the season progresses, these players will undoubtedly shape the landscape of the Big 12 and make significant impacts on their teams’ successes. Whether it’s through electrifying runs, game-changing catches, or precise passing, these top 10 offensive players are sure to provide plenty of excitement and highlight-worthy moments. Keep an eye on them as they look to leave their mark on the 2024 college football season.
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