Top Playmakers for the 2025 College Football Season: Jeremiyah Love and Drayk Bowen
Jeremiyah Love, a junior from St. Louis, Missouri, emerged as one of college football’s premier running backs during his sophomore year. He amassed 1,125 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns on 163 carries, averaging an impressive 6.9 yards per carry. His performance was highlighted by a 98-yard touchdown run against Indiana in the College Football Playoff, the longest in playoff history .(On3, WDIV)
Standing at 6’0″ and weighing 212 pounds, Love combines speed, power, and agility. His ability to hurdle defenders has become a signature move, drawing comparisons to NFL star Saquon Barkley . In addition to his rushing prowess, Love contributed 237 receiving yards and two touchdowns, showcasing his versatility as a dual-threat back .(One Foot Down, Sporting News, fightingirish.com)
Love’s impact extends beyond statistics. His determination and toughness were evident when he played through illness and a knee injury during the playoff game against Indiana, still managing to deliver a record-setting performance . His leadership and work ethic have set a standard for the Fighting Irish offense.
Entering the 2025 season, Love is considered a top contender for the Heisman Trophy and is projected as a first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft . With his combination of talent, versatility, and leadership, he is expected to be a central figure in Notre Dame’s pursuit of a national championship.(Hogs Haven)
Drayk Bowen, a junior linebacker from Merrillville, Indiana, was a highly decorated high school player, earning the Butkus Award and Indiana Mr. Football honors in 2022 . At Notre Dame, he quickly became a key contributor on defense, known for his tackling ability and football IQ.(Wikipedia)
Bowen’s presence in the linebacker corps has been instrumental in anchoring Notre Dame’s defense. His ability to read plays, shed blocks, and make tackles has made him a reliable and impactful player. He has also demonstrated versatility by contributing on special teams and in pass coverage.(U.S. News)
Beyond his on-field performance, Bowen is recognized for his leadership and dedication. His commitment to preparation and continuous improvement has earned him the respect of coaches and teammates alike. As a finance major, he balances academic rigor with athletic excellence
As Notre Dame aims for a strong defensive showing in the 2025 season, Bowen is expected to play a pivotal role. His experience, leadership, and playmaking ability will be crucial in guiding a defense that faces high expectations.
Jeremiyah Love and Drayk Bowen exemplify the qualities of elite college football playmakers. Love’s explosive offensive capabilities and Bowen’s steadfast defensive presence position them as leaders on a Notre Dame team with championship aspirations. Their performances in the upcoming season will be key determinants in the Fighting Irish’s pursuit of national glory.
