3 Players to Watch in Week 3

Week three is when early-season momentum meets tougher matchups. Some players have already flashed, but now the defenses get sharper, the pressure rises and the questions start to matter. Here are three guys I’ll be watching closely: Star Thomas (RB, Tennessee), Eli Holstein (QB, Pittsburgh) and CJ Carr (QB, Notre Dame).

Thomas vs. Georgia

No. 15 Tennessee’s (2-0) running game has already made an impact this season, and Thomas has been central to that. Through the first two games, he’s carried 24 times for 161 yards and three touchdowns, averaging 6.7 yards per carry. Those are strong numbers, but week three is a different challenge: No. 6 Georgia (2-0) brings one of the best front sevens in the country.

What to watch: Thomas’s ability to consistently gain yards between the tackles will be critical. If he can win the tough yards and stay productive in space, it will force Georgia to respect the run and open up lanes for QB Joey Aguilar. A balanced attack is key here, Thomas helping the run game succeed takes pressure off Aguilar, giving him more time to survey the field and make plays. Watch how Thomas responds to contact, finds seams, and turns small gains into momentum-shifting plays.

Why I’m watching: If Thomas continues his early-season production against Georgia, Tennessee’s offense becomes much harder to defend. His performance could set the tone for how balanced and dangerous the Volunteers can be this season.

Holstein vs. West Virginia

Pitt (2-0) and Holstein has looked composed so far, doing enough to move the offense efficiently while minimizing mistakes. But the Backyard Brawl against West Virginia (1-1) will be a different kind of test. WVU is coming off a disappointing loss to Ohio, a MAC opponent, so expect them to play with intensity and desperation.

What to watch: Holstein’s ability to keep success through the air is going to be tested. He’s been effective early, but he’ll need to maintain poise against a motivated defense, make accurate throws under pressure and use his receiving weapons efficiently. The run game will also be crucial, giving him windows and keeping the Mountaineers off balance with play-action and short passes.

Why I’m watching: Holstein has the chance to continue building momentum for Pitt and prove that their 2-0 start isn’t a fluke. His performance in a heated rivalry game could define how the Panthers handle tougher defenses down the stretch.