Pittman’s Pocket: HBCU Freshman Phenoms: Rising Stars Shine Bright in 2024 Season

The 2024 HBCU football season has been a showcase of young talent, with true freshmen stepping up and delivering stellar performances week after week. As the season wraps up, here’s a look at a few standout players who have proven they belong on the big stage.

Levontai Summerset – Florida A&M

FAMU running back Levontai Summerset (#20) continues to impress with his explosive plays. In the Rattlers’ win against Alabama A&M, Summerset carried the ball eight times for 74 yards, including a touchdown that showcased his game-changing ability. His speed and vision have been key to FAMU’s offensive success.

Goldie Lawrence – Florida A&M

Wide receiver Goldie Lawrence also contributed to FAMU’s victory, hauling in three receptions for 31 yards. While his stats may seem modest, his presence and consistency have added depth to the Rattlers’ receiving corps all season.

Sanders Ellis – Tennessee State

If there’s one freshman who has truly dominated on defense this year, it’s Tennessee State’s Sanders Ellis. In his final game of the regular season, Ellis posted a jaw-dropping stat line: 10 tackles (7 solo, 3 assisted), 1 sack, 3 tackles for loss, and 2 fumble recoveries. A cornerstone of Coach Eddie George’s defense, Ellis draws comparisons to South Carolina State alum and NFL star linebacker Shaq Leonard for his relentless play and leadership on the field.

Looking Ahead: Recognizing Freshman Excellence

The anticipation is building for the announcement of the Jerry Rice Award winner, which honors the most outstanding freshman in FCS football. In addition, mark your calendars for December 13, 2024, as Pittman’s Pocket will reveal the 2024-2025 HBCU True Freshman All-American selections. Over 60 exceptional freshmen will be recognized for their incredible on-field achievements this season.

These young stars are not only the future of HBCU football but are setting the standard for excellence in their first year. Keep an eye on these names—they’re just getting started!