The college football season was filled with excitement that saw plenty of upsets and new stars emerge on the gridiron. While plenty of players shined on the field, three college football players separated themselves from the rest of the pack. These dynamic playmakers were the keys to success for each one of their respective teams and will hope to continue to win in the upcoming bowl season. Here are the top three NCAA football players from the 2017 season.
#1 Baker Mayfield QB, Oklahoma Sooners Senior
Baker Mayfield emerged as a dynamic playmaker for the Oklahoma Sooners and helped lead his squad to a berth in the NCAA football playoffs. Mayfield threw for 41 touchdowns with only five interceptions and 4,340 passing yards that lead to him winning the Heisman Trophy. Mayfield was the first Oklahoma Sooner QB to win the Heisman since Sam Bradford in 2008. While Mayfield’s passion has gotten under the skin of his opponents, his high-energy style of play is one of the main reasons for Oklahoma’s success. He will look to continue his success in the playoffs and bring the Sooners their first national championship since 2000 as they face the Georgia Bulldogs on January 1st, 2018.
#2 Bryce Love RB, Stanford Junior
Bryce Love ran for 17 touchdowns and 1,973 yards for the Stanford Cardinals and led the team to a 9-4 record and a spot in the Pac-12 Championship game. Love was a key focal point of the Cardinal’s offense and had 237 carries with an 8.3 YPC. He will face a tough decision in the off-season, as he will weigh the benefits of turning pro or returning to Stanford for his Senior season. Love finished runner-up in the Heisman voting and will face TCU in the Alamo Bowl on December 28th in San Antonio.
#3 Lamar Jackson QB, Louisville, Junior
Lamar Jackson was the reigning Heisman Trophy winner from 2016 and finished in third place in the 2017 season. He threw for 3,489 yards and ran for 1,443 yards that included 42 total touchdowns. Jackson was a threat passing or running the ball and was a nightmare for opposing defenses. Jackson will look to continue his success against the Mississippi State Bulldogs in the TaxSlayer Bowl on December 30th.
Who will emerge as a star in 2018? Follow my blog at DrakeBolon.net to find out.