Scouting the Nation: Week 1 College Football Risers
Welcome back to another edition of Scouting the Nation. In this series, we take a look at college football players that you need to get to know before the season kicks off. Whether you’re a hardcore college football fan, looking at the 2025 NFL Draft, or looking to bolster your Devy rosters, this is for you.
In this edition of Scouting the Nation, we take a look at the best performances from week one of the college football regular season. With the 2024 CFB season in the books, it’s time to check out some of the biggest risers from Week 1.
Scouting the Nation – Week 1 College Football Risers
Cam Ward QB Miami (FL)
The best quarterback performance of the opening weekend, Cam Ward went into Gainesville and was fantastic. From start to finish, Ward hurt the Gators with his incredible arm and legs. Whether in structure or creating outside the pocket, Ward picked apart Florida’s defense. Notably, his ball placement was excellent and he continually showed off his elite arm strength.
Furthermore, what was most impressive about Ward was his calmness in one of the most difficult atmospheres in college football. He elevated the players around him and made some of the best throws we’ll see all the season. I mocked Ward top five all Summer. This week, he played to that level against Florida.
Jalon Walker DE/LB Georgia
You rarely find a prospect as freaky as Jalon Walker. With the way he played on Saturday and last season, Walker can be viewed as a first-round linebacker or edge rusher. Additionally, his closing speed and burst are phenomenal, making it easy for him to track down quarterbacks and sack them.
Furthermore, Walker can set the edge and showed off impressive play strength against Clemson. I had Walker 11th in my latest mock draft, and that seems too low now. Ultimately, Walker is a blue-chip prospect and showed why he is one on Saturday.
Grey Zabel OT North Dakota State
After playing right tackle and guard for the Bison last season, Grey Zabel transitioned to left tackle and was lights out in the opener. His play strength really stood out, as he was consistently finishing defenders in the run game. Zabel played with a stout anchor in pass protection and was able to stop defenders’ power on contact.
Several of North Dakota State’s best run plays were Zabel creating holes for the ball carrier. This will be the first game scouts turn on when they watch Zabel’s film, and he dominated Colorado’s defensive line. Overall, it was a great start to the season for the Bison’s next top offensive line prospect.
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