Pittmans Pocket: HBCU Freshman Impact Recap – Weeks 2 & 3

🌟 Headliner: Jared Lockhart – QB – Jackson State

In his college debut (Week 3 vs. Tuskegee), Lockhart stepped in for an injured starter and delivered a commanding 30–0 victory.

Finished with 257 passing yards and three total touchdowns (1 passing, 2 rushing).

Showed poise, mobility, and leadership — marking him as one of the top freshman stories in HBCU football this season.

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🔥 Other Freshman & Young Standouts

Alabama A&M – Mekhi Maddox (WR)

Week 2: 2 receptions for 32 yards, showing flashes of reliability in the passing game.

Alabama A&M – Jordan Chambers-Smith (WR)

Exceeding Coach Shades’ expectations, emerging as a standout in a talented freshman receiving core.

Already proving to be a consistent target with room to grow into a leader at wideout.

Arkansas-Pine Bluff – D’Avery Robinson (WR)

Week 2: Posted 7 receptions for 67 yards, bringing steady production and playmaking ability to the Golden Lions’ offense.

Howard – Ben Chandler (DB/LB)

Week 2: Extraordinary performance with 6 solo tackles against Division I competition.

Week 3 vs. Morehouse: Added 4 tackles (2 solo), showing consistency and toughness.

Howard – Zuri Watson (DB)

Week 3 debut vs. Temple: Logged 4 tackles (2 solo), making an immediate impact against an FBS opponent.

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📈 Takeaway

Across Weeks 2 and 3, HBCU programs are seeing their freshman and underclassmen step into big roles early. From Jared Lockhart commanding an offense in his debut, to defensive anchors like Ben Chandler and Zuri Watson holding their ground, this new wave of talent is setting the tone for the 2025 season — and the future.