De’Anthony Thomas a Freshman All-American

Running back/receiver De’Anthony Thomas was named to the Freshman All-American team, and this comes as no surprise. Thomas was given this well-deserved honor because of his big-play ability that was best showcased in the Oregon Ducks biggest game of the season; their Rose Bowl victory. He had just two carries, but he took it to the house both times on electrifying 91 and 64 yard touchdowns. He’s the ideal weapon in a spread offense with his speed, lateral quickness, agility, and ability as a receiver.

In only 55 carries, De’Anthony Thomas amassed 595 rushing yards for an average of 10.8 yards per carry. If you give the ball to Thomas, you’re most likely going to get a first down. He had seven rushing touchdowns to go with nine touchdown catches. The frosh was second in the Pac-12 with 18 total touchdowns after returning two kickoffs for TDs. He averaged 27.3 yards per return in total.

Showing his ability as a receiver, Thomas led the Oregon Ducks with 46 receptions and 605 yards for an average of 13.2 yards per catch. In 101 overall plays, Thomas was dynamite and averaged 11.2 yards per play from scrimmage.

Next season, Thomas will only improve and will play a bigger role in the offense with the departure of LaMichael James. He has definitely impressed in his first season in college, and the Ducks have their spread offense star for the next few seasons to come. A spot on the Freshman All-American team is just the beginning of the accolades for Thomas, and he will continue to terrorize defenses with his speed.

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