Six surprises from TCU football’s training camp

One of the best things about college football training camp is the players that go from under the radar to potential starters and difference makers.

Known commodities like standout wide Quentin Johnston and linebacker Dee Winters have all shown why they’ve started so many games, but what about some of the new faces that are beginning to emerge at TCU?

With an infusion of talent from the 2022 signing class and a Top 15 transfer class, head coach Sonny Dykes is already seeing some of those additions make an impact.

“We got a lot of depth, that’s one thing I like about this team; there’s enough depth where you may have been a starter the last couple of years but someone is likely pushing you for your job,” Dykes said. “That’s what you want. Some of these veterans that have started a lot of games are getting pushed not only by younger guys but sometimes transfers. That makes everybody better and I’m encouraged by that.”

These six players have been the biggest surprises in camp and could be a factor in the depth chart going forward.

Savion Williams, WR: The junior received signed with the Horned Frogs as a four-star recruit in the 2020 class, but has yet to make the impact many expected. He’s had only seven catches in two seasons. A new offensive-minded staff has helped Williams start realizing his potential. Williams has earned reps on the first-team offense and had a solid practice Tuesday.

He went up and over Josh Newton for a contested jump ball and caught another pass that would’ve been good for a first down. The 6-5, 215-pound receiver is starting to come into his own.

“Guys you were waiting for to make plays are starting to make plays. Savion Williams is one that comes to mind in particular. I think in the last 3-4 practices, he’s practiced at the level that we need him to play at; so, I’ve been impressed with that,” Dykes said Saturday.

Josh Newton, CB: Tuesday was one of the rare days Newton got beat on a pass. The Louisiana-Monroe transfer has quickly adjusted to Joe Gillespie’s 3-3-5 scheme and his ability to play tight man coverage has helped him rise in the depth chart. Tre’Vius Hodges-Tomlinson has one corner position locked up. Newton could be the favorite to start with him.

“He’s a dude. He brings a lot to the game. Some maturity, he’s obviously a veteran player. He played a lot of snaps and he’s just a hard worker. A film junkie, he does it all,” cornerbacks coach Carlton Buckels said.

Trent Battle, RB: The running back room is one of the many position groups offensively that has impressive depth. Veterans Kendre Miller and Emari Demarcardo will be the lead backs, but the redshirt freshman could be a factor in a rotation. He has a smooth running style and is just as effective as a receiver out the backfield. Sources say Battle also was one of the standouts from Thursday’s scrimmage.

“Trent is an unbelievable young man. I told Emari at practice I think Trent is going to be really, really good. I think Trent is a very coachable kid. He’s been a really good, pleasant surprise this past spring and so far in camp,” running backs coach Anthony Jones said.

Damonic Williams, DL: It’s harder than ever for true freshman to get on the field, especially up front. That hasn’t stopped the 17-year-old Williams from moving up the depth chart. Williams was one of the biggest signees for Dykes as TCU held off a late charge from California to pull Williams away from his home state. Already much leaner and stronger than he was as a high school senior, Williams is showing why the staff wanted him so badly.

“Dam’s really practiced well. He’s been incredibly consistent for a 17-year-old freshman. He has practiced well in the spring; came in here and seemed like he was one of the veterans. He’s done the same thing in fall camp,” Dykes said.

Jordan Hudson, WR: At least one recruiting service ranked Hudson as a five-star receiver and he’s lived up to the lofty rankings. Hudson has lined up on the outside and at slot. On3 insider Gerry Hamilton tweeted that Hudson had two touchdowns in a practice during the first week of fall camp. Hudson another reception on Tuesday as well.

“Jordan will definitely play. Expect Jordan play significantly on special teams and be in the rotation,” Dykes said.

Shadrach Banks, LB: A former Top 100 recruit and state champion at North Shore, Banks came in with high expectations when he transferred in from Texas A&M. After posting just 12 tackles last year, the sophomore could double that production with how he’s looked in camp. Playing mostly at middle linebacker, Banks has had a nose for the football and has been a plus defender against the run. The starting linebacker group is settled with Jamoi Hodge, Johnny Hodges and Dee Winters, but Banks could be the first off the bench.

“He’s starting to do some good things here and there at linebacker. He’s starting to show up a little bit more,” Dykes said.