In a trying year, some players stepped up big time for their teams. And some of those players were true freshmen. These were the best true freshmen in the Pac 12. The future is bright for these young players and their teams.
Offense
Quarterbacks
Jayden de Laura – Washington State
De Laura threw for 886 yards this season with 5 passing TDs and 2 rushing TDs. He seems like a QB who fits coach Nick Rolovich’s system well and should thrive next year.
Running Backs
Ty Jordan – Utah
I’m so glad I got to watch Ty play this season. He was an amazing player and incredibly fun to watch. He rushed for 597 yards and 6 touchdowns while averaging 7.2 yards per carry. RIP 22. We will never forget you.
Chip Trayanum – Arizona State
Trayanum rushed for 290 yards and 4 touchdowns, averaging 5.9 yards per carry. Stay tuned for 2021. He’s in store for a big season.
Defense
Defensive Linemen
DE Tuli Tuipulotu – USC
Tuipulotu will develop into one of the top pass rushers in CFB under the tutelage of D-Line coach Vic So’oto. This season he had 22 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss and 2 sacks. Remember the name!
Linebackers
Noah Sewell – Oregon
Sewell had a big freshman season with 48 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, 2 sacks, and 1 forced fumble. Sewell has tremendous upside with a unique combination of quickness and strength.
Defensive Backs
Clark Phillips III – Utah
Phillips was a massive commitment for the Utes and he shined in year one. This season he recorded 25 tackles, 2 tackles for loss, 1 INT, 2 pass breakups, and 1 fumble recovery.