Dylan Raiola, Jeremiah Smith, and 2 More Freshmen Who Balled Out in Week 1

By Cory Lemer

The 2024 recruiting class took the field for the first time on Saturday, featuring stars like Dylan Raiola , Ellis Robinson IV , Williams Nwaneri , and David Stone . In this article, we will look at four newcomers who balled out in their debut games.

1. Dylan Raiola

QB, Nebraska

The Nebraska legacy was ranked as the 2nd-best QB in the class and 7th overall, according to 247Sports . Hailing from Buford, GA, Raiola had all eyes on him and did not disappoint. In his first career start, he completed 19 of 27 passes for over 230 yards and added two scores through the air. His 70.4% completion percentage helped the Huskers take down UTEP 40-7.

2. Ryan Williams

WR, Alabama

Williams stuck with Kalen DeBoer after Nick Saban's retirement. The Saraland, AL, star ranked as the 2nd best WR in the country and the 2nd-best in the state. Williams saw limited snaps in Alabama 's 63-0 win over Western Kentucky but still managed to haul in two catches for 139 yards and two scores. With comparisons to Julio Jones entering his freshman season, the young star lived up to his potential in his debut at just 17.

3. Jeremiah Smith

WR, Ohio State

While Williams dominated, Jeremiah Smith also had a massive game. The top WR and number one player in the country entered the highly competitive Buckeyes WR room with high expectations. After starring throughout spring and earning the Day 1 start for Ryan Day , Smith responded to an early dropped pass with 92 yards, two touchdowns, and six catches in Ohio State 's blowout win over Akron .

4. Dylan Stewart

EDGE, South Carolina

Shane Beamer and South Carolina landed a star in five-star EDGE Dylan Stewart . The 19th-best prospect from Washington, D.C., impressed during spring camp, earning the start against Old Dominion. Despite a scare in Columbia with the Gamecocks pulling off a 23-19 win, Stewart flourished with 4 tackles, 2 forced fumbles, and 1.5 sacks in an impressive debut.