The Hot Sheet - Sept. 2nd, 2025
Week 1 is in the books, and it didn’t disappoint.
From dominant statement games to quiet starts that left us wanting more, the 2025 college football season kicked off with plenty for dynasty managers to digest. Each week, The Hot Sheet spotlights the top performances from around the country — players who not only put up big numbers, but did it in ways that matter for their long-term NFL potential.
We’ll also highlight a Cooling Off list — big names who didn’t live up to expectations — and the On The Radar section, where emerging talents and breakout candidates begin to make their case. Whether you’re scouting the 2025 rookie class or keeping tabs on future draft cycles, this week’s list is packed with players you’ll want to track all season.
Hot Sheet – The Best Performances of the Week
Quarterbacks:
1. Marcel Reed, QB #10, Texas A&M, RS Sophomore
Stat Line: 22/34, 289 yards, 4 TD + 8 rushes for 39 yards vs UTSA
Why They Are Here: Reed displayed complete command of the Aggies’ offense, spreading the ball around to multiple targets and consistently attacking downfield. His four passing touchdowns were balanced with smart, opportunistic runs that kept UTSA’s defense off balance. He showed patience in the pocket while also flashing the mobility to escape pressure and extend plays. This blend of poise, arm talent, and athleticism is exactly what makes him an intriguing dual-threat prospect for the next level.
2. Garrett Nussmeier, QB #18, LSU, Senior
Stat Line: 28/38, 232 yards, 1 TD vs. Clemson
Why They Are Here: Against a Clemson defense loaded with future NFL players, Nussmeier kept the offense on schedule with sharp reads and consistent accuracy. While his numbers weren’t eye-popping, the quality of the opponent and his ability to avoid mistakes make this performance notable. He worked through progressions efficiently, stayed disciplined under pressure, and made the throws necessary to sustain drives. It was a veteran-like showing that reinforces his profile as a reliable, pro-ready passer.
3. Beau Pribula, QB #9, Missouri, Senior
Stat Line: 283 pass yards, 2 TD + 65 rush yards, 2 TD vs Central Arkansas
Why They Are Here: Pribula put on a clinic in dual-threat execution, hurting the defense through the air and on the ground. He showed improved accuracy in the intermediate range and confidence in pushing the ball outside the numbers. In the red zone, he was decisive, using both designed runs and quick throws to punch in scores. This is the kind of versatile production that NFL evaluators love to see from quarterbacks.
4. Avery Johnson, QB #2, Kansas State, Junior
Stat Line: 28/43, 318 yards, 3 TD + 7 rushes for 43 yards vs North Dakota
Why They Are Here: Johnson demonstrated why he’s considered one of the most exciting young QBs in the country, blending arm strength with playmaking mobility. He consistently extended plays, kept his eyes downfield, and delivered accurate passes even when on the move. His touch on deep sideline routes was especially impressive, showing the ability to drop the ball in perfectly over coverage. While the opponent wasn’t the toughest, the mechanical polish and natural tools make him a high-ceiling dynasty target.
5. Malik Washington, QB #7, Maryland, Freshman
Stat Line: 27/43, 258 yards, 3 TD vs. FAU
Why They Are Here: Washington’s performance was a complete display of arm talent, processing, and confidence. He showed the ability to layer throws between defenders, particularly on seam and corner routes. His command of the offense was evident, as he adjusted protections and worked through progressions with poise. The opponent wasn’t elite, but the skill set and control on display are exactly what you want to see from a developing NFL prospect.
6. Darian Mensah, QB #16, Duke, Redshirt Sophomore
Stat Line: 27/34, 389 yards, 3 TD vs Elon
Why They Are Here: Mensah dismantled Elon’s defense with surgical precision, completing nearly 80% of his passes while pushing the ball vertically and horizontally. His poise in the pocket and ability to deliver accurate throws on time were evident, regardless of opponent quality. While the competition wasn’t top-tier, this was exactly the kind of clean, decisive performance you want to see from a QB in a game he’s supposed to dominate.
7. Taylen Green, QB #10, Arkansas, Senior
Stat Line: 24/31, 322 yards, 6 TD + 9 rushes for 41 yards
Why They Are Here: Green put up video game numbers, throwing six touchdowns while completing 77% of his passes. While Alabama A&M was clearly overmatched, he still impressed with his velocity, touch on deep balls, and composure in the pocket. His ability to threaten defenses with both his arm and legs was on full display. For dynasty purposes, it’s encouraging to see him dominate the matchups he’s supposed to — the next step is proving it against stronger competition.
Running Backs:
1. Robert Henry, RB #0, UTSA, Senior
Stat Line: 16 carries for 177 yards, 2 TD vs. Texas A&M
Why They Are Here: Henry put on one of the most impressive performances of the week by carving up an SEC defense for multiple explosive runs. His vision and ability to hit the cutback lane were elite, and once he got to the second level, he showed the acceleration to turn gains into breakaway plays. Doing this against Texas A&M’s athletic front seven adds significant weight to the stat line. If he continues producing like this against top-tier opponents, his draft stock will rise quickly.
2. Darius Taylor, RB #1, Minnesota, Junior
Stat Line: 30 carries for 141 yards + 4 catches for 36 yards (177 total yards) vs Buffalo
Why They Are Here: Taylor carried the Minnesota offense, shouldering a heavy workload and staying productive late into the game. He ran with patience, letting blocks develop, while also demonstrating contact balance to gain extra yards. His involvement in the passing game is a positive sign for his three-down potential. This was a pro-style workhorse showing moves that translate to the next level.
3. Jonah Coleman, RB #1, Washington, Senior
Stat Line: 24 carries for 177 yards, 2 TD vs. Colorado State
Why They Are Here: Coleman blended power and agility, running through arm tackles and bouncing plays outside when the lane was sealed. His patience behind the line allowed him to find creases, and once through, his burst was evident. While the opponent wasn’t elite, his consistent ability to turn small openings into chunk gains shows a skill set that will interest NFL scouts. This was a complete game from a back who’s becoming a weekly impact player.
4. Kevorian Barnes, RB #2, TCU, Senior
Stat Line: 11 carries for 113 yards, 1 TD vs. UNC
Why They Are Here: Barnes made the most of his limited touches, ripping off several explosive runs against an ACC defense. His vision was sharp, hitting the hole decisively, and he maintained excellent pad level through contact. The efficiency and ability to produce against a strong opponent make this a performance worth spotlighting. If his workload grows, he has the traits to become one of the more dangerous backs in college football.
5. Emmett Johnson, RB #21, Nebraska, Junior
Stat Line: 25 carries for 108 yards + 7 catches for 27 yards (135 total yards) vs Cincinnati
Why They Are Here: Johnson showcased his versatility by producing both as a runner and receiver, handling over 30 touches in the game. He’s a decisive, north-south runner who finishes forward and isn’t afraid of contact. The volume and durability shown here point toward a back who can handle an NFL-style workload. While not as explosive as some others on the list, his reliability and balanced skill set make him a strong dynasty consideration.
6. Justice Haynes, RB #22, Michigan, Junior
Stat Line: 16 carries for 159 yards, 3 TD + 2 catches for 6 yards vs New Mexico
Why They Are Here: Haynes displayed why he’s considered one of the premier young backs in the country, ripping off explosive runs and showing excellent vision in the red zone. Even though the opponent (New Mexico) was overmatched, he ran with intent, finishing every carry and keeping his pads low through contact. His natural balance and acceleration make him a dangerous weapon at every level of the defense.
PASS CATCHERS:
1. Germie Bernard, WR #5, Alabama, Senior
Stat Line: 8 catches for 146 yards vs. Florida State
Why They Are Here: Bernard delivered one of the most impressive WR performances of the week against a tough Florida State secondary stacked with future NFL talent. He consistently separated with sharp route breaks and leveraged his frame to shield defenders at the catch point. His ability to make plays in contested situations and work the middle of the field was on full display. Doing this against a high-caliber opponent cements Bernard’s place as a serious NFL prospect with a versatile skill set.
2. Jordan Dwyer, WR #7, TCU, Junior
Stat Line: 9 catches for 136 yards, 1 TD vs. UNC
Why They Are Here: Dwyer proved he could win against a P4 secondary, combining strong hands with precise route running. He was a consistent target in both the short and intermediate passing game while also flashing the ability to stretch the field. His awareness to work himself open when plays broke down added another dimension to his value. This was a complete outing, signaling that he’s ready for a bigger role in the offense.
3. Kole Wilson, WR #19, Baylor, Senior
Stat Line: 8 catches for 134 yards vs. Auburn
Why They Are Here: Wilson consistently found openings against Auburn’s physical SEC secondary, winning routes at all three levels of the field. His footwork at the line of scrimmage allowed him to create early separation, and he made several tough catches through contact. Facing a defense with this kind of size and speed makes his production even more impressive. Wilson’s ability to produce in high-pressure matchups boosts his NFL projection.
4. Marquis Johnson, WR #3, Missouri, Junior
Stat Line: 5 catches for 134 yards, 1 TD
Why They Are Here: Johnson’s game-breaking speed was evident from the start, threatening the defense vertically and opening space for the rest of the offense. His deep ball tracking skills stood out, as he adjusted seamlessly to throws over the shoulder. Even against Boston College, a solid Power Five opponent, he showed he could take the top off the defense with ease. If he continues to polish his route tree, he has the makings of a premier deep threat at the next level.
5. Michael Trigg, TE #1, Baylor, Senior
Stat Line: 7 catches for 99 yards, 1 TD vs. Auburn
Why They Are Here: Trigg was a matchup nightmare for Auburn’s defense, proving too quick for linebackers and too physical for defensive backs. He used his frame effectively to box out defenders and secure contested catches. His ability to stretch the seam and create mismatches in the red zone was a key factor in Baylor’s offensive success. This game reinforced his status as one of the most dangerous tight end prospects in college football.
6. Wesley Grimes, WR #2, NC State, Senior
Stat Line: 4 catches for 121 yards, 1 TD
Why They Are Here: Grimes made the most of his opportunities, turning just four catches into over 120 yards and a score. He showcased strong body control on deep routes and an ability to win in contested situations. While his target volume wasn’t high, his efficiency and impact per catch against East Carolina competition were notable. Performances like this can help elevate him into a larger role in the offense.
7. Cam Ross, WR #11, Virginia, Senior
Stat Line: 7 catches for 124 yards, 1 TD vs. Coastal Carolina
Why They Are Here: Ross was a steady and reliable option for his quarterback, working underneath routes and turning them into chunk gains after the catch. His knack for finding soft spots in zone coverage and moving the chains was vital to Virginia’s offensive rhythm. While not the most explosive athlete, his consistency and football IQ give him a potential path to carving out a slot role at the next level.
Cooling Off
High-profile players who entered the season with significant buzz but underperformed in their 2025 openers. These are still dynasty-relevant talents, but their Week 1 performances didn’t match expectations.
Quarterbacks:
Arch Manning – Texas, QB #16, RS Sophomore
Stat Line: 17/30, 170 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT vs. Ohio State
Manning entered the year with Heisman buzz and expectations of leading Texas to a playoff push. Against one of the best defenses in the country, he struggled to generate explosive plays, often settling for short throws and failing to stretch the field vertically. His accuracy and decision-making under pressure were inconsistent, and the offense sputtered in key moments. While Ohio State’s defense deserves credit, this wasn’t the type of debut performance for 2025 that dynasty managers were hoping to see.
Cade Klubnik – Clemson, QB #2, Senior
Stat Line: 19/38, 230 yards, 0 TD, 1 INT vs. LSU
In a nationally televised clash, Klubnik’s lack of pocket composure and inability to deliver in high-leverage situations were glaring. LSU’s pressure forced him into hurried throws, and his deep passing was largely ineffective. Coming off a season where he was expected to make a leap, this outing felt more like a plateau — or even a step back — for a QB who needs to show he can elevate Clemson’s passing game against elite competition.
Nico Iamaleava – UCLA, QB #9, RS Sophomore
Stat Line: 11/22, 136 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT; 13 carries, 47 yards vs. Utah
Iamaleava’s athleticism was evident in a few scrambles, but the passing game was disjointed from the start. He completed just 50% of his throws, took four sacks, and never established rhythm against Utah’s defense. For a quarterback viewed as a potential breakout star in 2025, this felt like a missed opportunity to make a statement against a conference foe.
Aidan Chiles – Michigan State, QB #2, Junior
Stat Line: 17/23, 155 yards, 1 TD; 10 carries, 8 yards vs. Western Michigan
While the completion percentage looks good, Chiles’ outing lacked impact plays against an overmatched MAC opponent. He averaged just 6.7 yards per attempt, was sacked four times, and failed to create meaningful production with his legs. Given the level of competition, more aggressiveness and downfield success were expected from a QB who’s been hyped as the face of MSU’s rebuild.
Running backs:
Nicholas Singleton – Penn State, RB #10, Senior
Stat Line: 8 carries, 19 yards, 2 TD; 4 catches, 37 yards vs. Nevada
The two short-yardage touchdowns inflate a stat line that was otherwise disappointing for a back with top-50 NFL Draft potential. Singleton averaged under 2.5 yards per carry against a defense he should have overwhelmed. His usage in a committee with Kaytron Allen continues to limit his weekly ceiling, raising questions about just how much volume he’ll command in 2025.
Jeremiyah Love – Notre Dame, RB #4, Junior
Stat Line: 10 carries, 33 yards; 4 catches, 26 yards vs. Miami
Love’s versatility remains a plus, but this was an underwhelming opener from a player some projected to break out nationally. He never found much running room, was bottled up between the tackles, and didn’t generate any explosive plays in the passing game. While Miami’s defense played well, the lack of impact from Love in a high-profile matchup was noticeable.
Jaydn Ott – Oklahoma, RB #0, Senior
Stat Line: 1 carry, -3 yards vs. Illinois State
Whether due to injury, game plan, or other factors, Ott receiving just a single carry in a non-conference tune-up was surprising and concerning. For a back expected to be a centerpiece of Oklahoma’s offense, this type of workload signals either caution from the staff or potential role uncertainty heading into bigger games.
Jaivian Thomas – UCLA, RB #21, Junior
Stat Line: 7 carries, 17 yards vs. Utah
Thomas had little room to operate against a stout Utah front, but even so, his inability to generate positive plays in space limited UCLA’s ground game. For a talented back looking to carve out a larger role, this game was a step in the wrong direction.
Bryson Washington – Baylor, RB #30, RS Sophomore
Stat Line: 14 carries, 54 yards vs. Auburn
Washington’s performance was workmanlike but unspectacular, averaging just 3.9 yards per carry. Against an SEC defense, he needed to break a big run or create more after contact to truly stand out. The lack of explosive plays continues to cap his upside.
Pass Catchers:
Jeremiah Smith – Ohio State, WR #4, Sophomore
Stat Line: 6 catches, 43 yards vs. Texas
Smith entered the season as one of the most hyped receivers in the country after a stellar freshman year, but Week 1 was a muted start. While he created separation on short and intermediate routes, the Buckeyes rarely connected with him on explosive plays. Facing a Texas secondary loaded with NFL-caliber talent, Smith was contained to chain-moving work instead of game-breaking production.
Ryan Williams – Alabama, WR #2, Sophomore
Stat Line: 5 catches, 30 yards vs. Florida State
Williams is regarded as one of the most dynamic young wideouts in the nation, but FSU’s physical, disciplined corners kept him from generating big plays. His impact after the catch was minimal, and Alabama never got him free on deep routes. While this was a tough matchup, the performance fell short of the preseason breakout buzz.
Cam Coleman – Auburn, WR #8, Sophomore
Stat Line: 1 catch, 23 yards vs. Baylor
Coleman’s quiet day had more to do with Auburn’s passing struggles than his talent, but the end result was still just one catch. With Auburn completing only 11 passes total, opportunities were scarce. For a player expected to be the Tigers’ go-to target, this was a disappointing national-stage opener.
Ryan Wingo – Texas, WR #1, Sophomore
Stat Line: 2 catches, 35 yards vs. Ohio State
Wingo made a couple of nice grabs, but he couldn’t separate deep or find openings in Ohio State’s tight coverage. Texas’ struggles to push the ball vertically limited his chances, leaving him with a quiet outing in what could have been a showcase game.
On The Radar – Players to Watch
These six players didn’t make the Hot Sheet but had performances worth tracking. Whether they’re younger prospects, small-school standouts, or emerging contributors at bigger programs, they’ve put themselves on the dynasty radar.
Quarterbacks:
CJ Carr – Notre Dame, QB #13, Freshman
Stat Line: 19/30, 221 yards, 2 TD, 1 INT + 13 carries, 16 yards, 1 TD vs. Miami
In his first college start, Carr showed poise well beyond his years, producing three total touchdowns against a tough Miami defense. He displayed clean mechanics, processed quickly under pressure, and delivered accurate throws to multiple levels of the field — the kind of early composure that can accelerate his rise.
Sawyer Robertson – Baylor, QB #13, Senior
Stat Line: 27/48, 419 yards, 3 TD, 0 INT, 4 sacks vs. Auburn
Robertson lit up an SEC defense for over 400 yards, consistently challenging Auburn downfield and finding success against tight coverage. While the completion rate dipped at times, his willingness to attack and produce against elite athletes makes this a performance worth noting.
Running Backs:
Isaac Brown – Louisville, RB #1, Sophomore
Stat Line: 6 carries, 126 yards, 2 TD vs. Eastern Kentucky
Brown was electric, turning just six carries into 126 yards and two touchdowns. His home-run speed and decisive cuts make him a threat to score from anywhere on the field. Even against a lesser opponent, the explosiveness jumps off the tape.
Kewan Lacy – Ole Miss, RB #5, Sophomore
Stat Line: 16 carries, 108 yards, 3 TD vs. Georgia State
Lacy ran with power and efficiency, taking advantage of scoring opportunities and converting them into three touchdowns. In an SEC program where his workload could grow, this type of performance puts him firmly on the breakout watchlist.
Pass Catchers:
Nyck Harbor – South Carolina, WR #8, Junior
Stat Line: 3 catches, 99 yards, 1 TD vs. Virginia
Harbor flashed noticeable growth in his route running to complement his elite track speed, burning Virginia’s secondary for a long score. With rare size/speed traits, he continues to profile as a future mismatch weapon at the next level.
Mario Craver – Texas A&M, WR #1, Sophomore
Stat Line: 8 catches, 122 yards, 2 TD vs. UTSA
Craver was a reliable target all game, showing strong hands and contested catch skills while finding the end zone twice. Against a solid UTSA defense, he established himself as a potential go-to option in the Aggies’ passing attack.
