As we edge closer to the CFP playoffs, it's easy to focus on the big names like QB Fernando Mendoza from Indiana, a true Heisman hopeful. Mendoza's impressive 299 passing yards, coupled with his 4 total touchdowns, has earned him the top spot on our list. But let's shine a spotlight on some Week 12 standouts who might have flown under your radar! Wide receivers Andrew Marsh of Michigan and Wyatt Young of North Texas are making waves.  Marsh isn't just a true freshman for Michigan; he broke a single-game record for freshmen at the school since 1979 with an incredible performance on Saturday, recording a career-high 12 receptions for 189 yards and setting up a game-winning field goal with a spectacular 21-yard catch. Young provided North Texas with a consistent flow of dynamic plays, ending the game with eight receptions for 143 yards and a touchdown. His impressive average of 17.9 yards per catch propelled the Mean Green to a victory over UAB on the road. Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq delivered a standout performance, recording 8 receptions for 96 yards and 1 touchdown. The Stud of the Week award is presented to running back OJ Arnold from Georgia Southern, who showcased an impressive performance with 393 total yards of offense, including five plays over 50 yards—a true career highlight. He rushed the ball 21 times for 267 yards and two touchdowns, marking the fifth-highest rushing yard total in a single game in Georgia Southern history. In addition, he recorded four receptions for 53 yards and a touchdown, as well as throwing a 73-yard touchdown pass. Notably, he is the first player in Georgia Southern's history to rush for a touchdown, catch a touchdown pass, and throw a touchdown pass all in the same game.

On defense, watch out for safety Jakobe Thomas from Miami (FL), who wrapped up the game with two interceptions — one of which he returned for a touchdown — along with a pass breakup. Cornerback DJ Barksdale from James Madison made a crucial interception against Appalachian State and added 3 tackles to secure a dominant victory. Tre'Quon Fegans, CB for Jacksonville State, recorded 3 tackles to propel the Gamecocks to the top of Conference USA.

EDGE rusher John Henry Daley from Utah was a formidable force against Baylor, recording 4 tackles and, more crucially, reinforcing the Utes' defensive line in the run game. Keep an eye on these emerging talents!