Fernando Mendoza, Ahmad Hardy Lead The Athletic’s All-Transfer Team

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Fernando Mendoza, Ahmad Hardy Lead The Athletic’s All-Transfer Team

The 2023 college football season showcased numerous standout performances from first-year transfers. Several players not only provided depth to their teams but also stepped into pivotal roles, leading their programs to remarkable achievements. This article highlights the top performers from The Athletic’s all-transfer team, focusing on key figures like Fernando Mendoza and Ahmad Hardy.

Quarterbacks and Running Backs

QB Fernando Mendoza, Indiana: Mendoza has truly transformed Indiana’s program this season. With a career at Cal behind him, he has thrown for 2,980 yards, 33 touchdowns, and only six interceptions. His efforts have propelled Indiana to a perfect 13-0 record, making them Big Ten champions and the top seed in the College Football Playoff.
RB Ahmad Hardy, Missouri: After transferring from Louisiana-Monroe, Hardy established himself as a force in the SEC. He leads the nation with an impressive average of 130 rushing yards per game and has a remarkable 4.9 yards after contact.
RB Kewan Lacy, Ole Miss: Another impactful transfer, Lacy has rushed for 1,279 yards and 20 touchdowns, playing a crucial role in Ole Miss securing their first-ever College Football Playoff berth.

Wide Receivers and Tight Ends

WR Duce Robinson, Florida State: Robinson, once a five-star recruit, has thrived after moving from USC. He ranks ninth nationally with 1,081 receiving yards and six touchdown catches, enjoying a breakout season.
WR Danny Scudero, San Jose State: Scudero adapted well to the “spread and shred” offense, leading the nation with 1,291 receiving yards and scoring 10 touchdowns.
TE Tanner Koziol, Houston: Koziol, a top target for quarterbacks, has 65 receptions and 651 yards, contributing significantly to Houston’s offense.

Offensive Linemen

T Keagen Trost, Missouri: Trost has been solid in protection, allowing only two sacks this season and earning first-team All-SEC honors.
T Isaiah World, Oregon: World played a key role for the Ducks, allowing minimal pressure and contributing to a high-scoring offense.
G Evan Beerntsen, Northwestern: Beerntsen has kept defenses at bay, surrendering no sacks and only five pressures throughout the season.
C Luke Petitbon, Florida State: Petitbon played a significant role, minimizing pressures as part of a high-powered offense.

Defensive Standouts

DL David Bailey, Texas Tech: Bailey has been a dominant force with 13.5 sacks and 74 pressures, earning recognition as a first-team All-American.
DL Stephen Daley, Indiana: Despite a season-ending injury, Daley made an impact with 5.5 sacks and leading in tackles for loss before his untimely exit.
LB Xavier Atkins, Auburn: Attributing to Auburn’s defensive success, Atkins leads the SEC with 17 tackles for loss and nine sacks.

Special Teams Excellence

K Tate Sandell, Oklahoma: Sandell achieved remarkable success with a 23 of 24 field goal rate and is recognized as an All-American.
P Grayson Miller, Oklahoma: Miller’s debut season featured an impressive average of 46.8 yards per punt.
AP KC Concepcion, Texas A&M: Concepcion proved vital as both a receiver and returner, showcasing his skills with 57 receptions and several standout punt returns.

The contributions from these transfer athletes have significantly shaped the 2023 college football landscape. Players like Fernando Mendoza and Ahmad Hardy have not only become stars but are also leading their teams toward unprecedented success.