Arkansas Sports 360 - ArkansasSports360.com

8/19/2010 at 8:38am

Former Little Rock Christian running back Michael Dyer is now at Auburn.

Contributing to a college football team right away is a difficult proposition. A handful of native Arkansans appear poised for contributions across the country despite being freshmen.

Who are the most likely candidates?

Auburn is trying to figure out how much to use Michael Dyer (Little Rock Christian). He has been impressive in scrimmages, but needs to learn to block.

Here’s more from the Opelika-Auburn News:

Gene Chizik knows Michael Dyer is going to play. So does Gus Malzahn and, frankly, so does Dyer.

The clarity, though, stops there.

How much Dyer will be involved in the offense when Auburn opens the season against

Arkansas State remains a mystery for now.

Actually, based on what coaches say, it’s more of a work in progress.

“Obviously now, he can carry the football,” Malzahn said. “We know that. But there’s a lot more to playing running back, specifically in our offense that we ask him to do.”

Ole Miss will likely use Brishen Mathews (Monticello) in the secondary. Mathews’ speed has been impressive, the Clarion Ledger reports:

In the secondary, Brishen Matthews is competing for a spot as the team's fourth safety. The 6-foot, 190-pounder needs to add a little muscle, but his speed could help the defense immediately.

Missouri has plans for running back Greg White (De Queen), who has been physical in practice so far, the Columbia Tribune reports.

Spencer Harris (Greenwood) could help at Illinois with the team’s wide receiver depth. Offensive coordinator Paul Petrino likes Harris and three other freshmen receivers.

Other freshmen who have gone elsewhere could likely contribute. This list was based upon news reports since fall camp opened.

If I missed one, feel free to let me know: cbahn@abpg.com. I’ll try to update throughout the season.

Tagged: Michael Dyer, Greg White, DeQueen Leopards, Brishen Matthews, Spencer Harris, Little Rock Christian Academy, Auburn Tigers, Missouri Tigers, Ole Miss Rebels, Monticello High, Illinois Fighting Illini, Greenwood High