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PFF analyst tabs 3 former B1G stars as darkhorse candidates for Offensive Rookie of the Year
By Paul Harvey
Published:
NFL teams have hit training camps across the country with preseason action lurking right around the corner. That means it’s time for analysts to begin serving up predictions for some end-of-season awards.
On Monday, Pro Football Focus analyst Anthony Treash revealed some of his favorite darkhorse candidates for NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year. These are players that are not given great odds to win the award but could come on strong if the situation presents itself.
At the top of Treash’s list was former Ole Miss wide receiver, Elijah Moore (+2500 odds). However, the next three spots were occupied by former B1G stars. The rest of the list consists of Rashod Bateman (+3500), Trey Sermon (+3500), and Rondale Moore (+5000).
The allure of Bateman is undeniable. Playing with Lamar Jackson and Baltimore’s impressive run attack should net Bateman a lot of one-on-one opportunities early on in his career.
Sermon landed in a good opportunity with the San Francisco 49ers and head coach Kyle Shanahan. Though Sermon will likely not be the starter, he should get reps in Shanahan’s attack and could have some breakthrough moments.
Moore playing in Arizona is another cool chance for a young receiver. He will get the chance to play with quarterback Kyler Murray and alongside Deandre Hopkins who will get a lot of attention from opposing defenses.
It will be interesting to see which player from this group of rookies shines brightest in 2021.
Paul is a lifelong fan and student of all things college football. He has been covering college football since 2017 and the B1G since 2018.