Top Devy Performances From Bowl Season

Kevin looks at the top performances from devy underclassmen this bowl season that could propel them to a strong 2025 season.

As the college football season winds down, bowl games offer a unique stage for emerging talents to shine. For devy managers, these performances can be a window into the future—showcasing the underclassmen poised to dominate in 2025. From breakout games to clutch performances under the spotlight, these players made a statement when it mattered most.

In this article, I’ll spotlight the devy standouts from this year’s bowl season and explore how their impressive showings could elevate their stock heading into next season. Whether you're scouting for your devy league or tracking potential dynasty stars, these names are worth knowing. Let’s dive in!

BE SURE TO CHECK OUT OUR LATEST DRAFT PODCAST!

Notre Dame WR Jordan Faison (5’10”, 182 LBS)

Jordan Faison may not dominate the stat sheet weekly, but his versatility and upside make him one of Notre Dame's most intriguing players. Standing at 5'10" and 182 pounds, Faison is a two-sport athlete who has already proven himself on a championship stage. While his lacrosse exploits earned him a national title as a freshman midfielder, his football journey tells the story of a dynamic playmaker finding his place on the gridiron.

Faison’s ability to make an impact showed in the Irish’s 27-17 win over Indiana in the College Football Playoff first round. He posted a season-high 89 receiving yards on five catches and added a 43-yard kickoff return that highlighted his explosiveness. His play earned him Notre Dame’s Player of the Week honors for offense and special teams, with head coach Marcus Freeman praising him as a "weapon" for the team. Against Georgia, he had four receptions for forty-six yards.

Faison’s path to prominence wasn’t typical. Initially recruited as a lacrosse player, he walked on to Notre Dame’s football program and quickly made his presence felt, earning a scholarship midway through his freshman season. His Sun Bowl MVP performance—115 yards and a touchdown on five receptions—underscored his potential as a big-play threat. Though injuries slowed him at the start of this season, he has flashed his playmaking ability when given opportunities.

In high school, Faison’s athleticism was on full display as a two-way player. He played quarterback, rushing for over 1,400 yards and 22 touchdowns in just nine games as a senior, while also making plays on defense with more than 25 tackles and two interceptions. His knack for special teams was evident with two blocked punts.

From a devy perspective, Faison is a deep sleeper, unlikely to be rostered in most leagues. However, for managers looking for late-round dart throws this offseason, he’s worth a look. His combination of athleticism, versatility, and underdog story evokes shades of former Georgia WR Ladd McConkey, now thriving as a legitimate WR1 for the Chargers. Faison may be off the radar now, but his upside is impossible to ignore. He also could have two more games to increase his devy stock.

Florida QB DJ Lagway (6’3”, 239 LBS)

DJ Lagway has cemented himself as a rising star in college football, positioning himself as the early favorite for QB1 in the 2027 NFL Draft class. The 6’3”, 239-pound freshman showcased his elite arm talent and athleticism in Florida’s Gasparilla Bowl win over Tulane, where he threw for a record-setting 305 yards. Despite earning MVP honors, Lagway wasn’t satisfied with his performance, citing turnovers and missed opportunities as areas for improvement. His response? A vow to get to work this offseason, fueled by his relentless drive and leadership.

What stands out most about Lagway is his combination of tools and intangibles. While his raw talent was evident from the moment he stepped on campus, enrolling early gave him a head start in understanding the complexities of playing quarterback at the college level. His growth throughout the season was evident, leading Florida to a 6-0 record in games he started and finished. Lagway’s ability to throw accurate deep balls and make big plays under pressure has already earned him True Freshman All-American and All-SEC honors.

Looking ahead, Lagway is surrounded by a promising offensive foundation. Florida’s offensive line will return four starters, including All-American center Jake Slaughter and left tackle Austin Barber. Additionally, the Gators have bolstered their receiving corps with transfer J. Michael Sturdivant and a trio of highly touted freshmen, including Vernell Brown III, Dallas Wilson, and Naeshaun Montgomery. With Eugene Wilson III expected to return healthy, Florida’s offense could be one of the nation’s best in 2025.

From a devy perspective, investing in a quarterback always comes with risk, especially with Lagway projected as a late first- or early second-round pick in devy drafts. However, his blend of physical tools, leadership, and proven ability to elevate his team makes him an enticing option for managers looking to secure a future first-round NFL talent.

Clemson WR T.J. Moore (6’3”, 200 LBS)

T.J. Moore capped off a challenging but promising freshman season with a dominant performance in Clemson’s playoff loss to Texas, hauling in 9 receptions for 116 yards and a touchdown. His ability to shine against one of the best secondaries in college football highlighted his advanced skill set, including precise route running, body control, and explosiveness after the catch.

Despite adversity off the field—losing his family’s home and belongings to Hurricane Helene in October—Moore found a strong connection with quarterback Cade Klubnik, especially during the latter half of the season.

Moore’s freshman campaign, with 45 receptions, 651 yards, and five touchdowns, was impressive in its own right. He and fellow standout Bryant Wesco Jr. made history as the first power-conference duo since 2000 to each post 650+ receiving yards and 5+ touchdowns as freshmen. Looking ahead, Moore’s natural talent and continued chemistry with Klubnik position him as Clemson’s best receiver, even in a crowded room that includes Bryant Wesco and Antonio Williams.

For devy managers, Moore represents a high-upside asset who could challenge for a first-round devy value this off-season. With another year of growth, he’s poised to push for a top-four spot in his class and emerge as a cornerstone prospect for devy rosters.

Ohio State WR Jeremiah Smith (6’3”, 215 LBS)

We’ve never seen a player dominate like Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith. At just 18 years old, the true freshman has cemented himself as a generational talent, leading the Buckeyes to back-to-back blowout wins in the College Football Playoff. With two potential games still ahead, Smith is showing why he’s not only the best devy prospect but perhaps the most valuable in the format’s history.

Smith’s performances in the playoffs have been nothing short of legendary. Against Tennessee, he posted six receptions for 103 yards and two touchdowns. But it was in the Rose Bowl against an undefeated Oregon squad that Smith delivered a game for the ages: seven catches for 187 yards and two explosive touchdowns, setting a playoff record for most receiving yards by a freshman. His impact earned him Rose Bowl Offensive Player of the Game honors, adding to his growing legacy.

This season, Smith has amassed 70 receptions for 1,224 yards and 14 touchdowns. His five 100-yard games place him among Ohio State’s all-time greats, and his blend of size, speed, and football IQ draws constant comparisons to NFL superstars. Smith’s confidence is palpable, and his ability to back up his words makes him a leader both on and off the field.

Looking ahead, Smith should be the clear Heisman favorite for next season and a lock to dominate college football for the next two seasons. He is already NFL ready. If you’re lucky enough to roster him, you’re holding one of the most valuable assets the devy format has ever seen.

BE SURE TO CHECK OUT OUR LATEST DEVY/DYNASTY PODCAST!

Dear Readers,

We’re an independent site thriving thanks to the support of our valued members. By signing up for our Substack or Patreon, you’re directly contributing to keeping our business running. Subscribing to Patreon grants you access to Substack content and all of our exclusive material. Your support is crucial, and we sincerely appreciate your commitment.

Thank you for helping us continue our work.

Kansas State RB Dylan Edwards (5’9”, 170 LBS)