Despite all the advancements in scouting and talent identification, there are always a few guys who slip through the cracks of high school recruiting. But now with the rise of the transfer portal, it's easier than ever for players who start their career at the FCS level to find their place in FBS. In recent years, Cam Ward and Travis Hunter were Heisman Trophy finalists.
The core of Indiana's national title team started in the FCS at James Madison. Ole Miss star Trinidad Chambliss started his career at Division II, and Wisconsin DB Matt Jung even jumped all the way from Division III. With that in mind, we're evaluating the top FCS transfers of the season (with a few Division IIs sprinkled in) who have already made impacts on their teams in September.
There are countless others who have found a place, but these 10 stand out. Atkinson has been one of the stars of the season, ranking among the most productive players in college football. The Mercer transfer ranks No. 2 nationally in passing yards per game, throwing for 355.3 yards per game and dicing up ranked opponents Texas Tech and Houston along the way.
The Beavers are set to start Pac-12 play and, behind Atkinson and freshman receiver Jesse Legree, could be a dark horse playoff contender. Crowther nearly hit 1,000 yards last season as a breakout star at Dartmouth and has quickly emerged as a playmaker at the FBS level. The senior is averaging 6.4 yards per carry for the Bulls, including 143 yards in a 14-6 win over Bowling Green.
Crowther also caught three passes for 51 yards over the past two games, unlocking yet another piece of Brian Hartline's offense. Like Atkinson, Dabbs won't be the last Mercer transfer on the list. Dabbs followed coach Mike Jacobs from Macon to Toledo and has quickly adjusted to the new level of competition.
The junior posted a 100-yard game with two touchdowns against Michigan State in the opener and has hit at least 62 yards in every FBS competition. He's one yard away from leading the Rockets in receptions, yards and touchdowns. Going from the FCS to the SEC is a big challenge, but Delgatty makes it look easy.
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