AUBURN, Ala. – Auburn quarterback Bo Nix and linebacker Owen Pappoe are on the 2019 Freshman All-American Team Watch List, the Football Writers Association of America announced Friday.
Nix and Pappoe are among 74 newcomers on the list, including 24 from the Southeastern Conference.
The list will be updated throughout the season as freshmen emerge.
Nix and Pappoe will get their first chance to impress next Saturday when No. 16 Auburn plays No. 11 Oregon in the AdvoCare Classic at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas at 6:30 p.m. CT on ABC.
Nix will become the first true freshman quarterback in 73 years to start Auburn's season opener.
"I guess it's as good as you can write up, College GameDay for a freshman walking in, it's your first game—some people view that as tough, but I kind of see it as fun just because it's what you prepare for," Nix said. "I mean, why else would you play if you can't play at the highest atmosphere, environment and all that stuff? It will be fun, and we'll be ready to go."
Like Nix, Pappoe enrolled in January, benefiting from spring practice after earning a five-star ranking in high school. He quickly emerged as a contender from playing time, impressing teammates and coaches.
"He'll be a major contributor," Auburn coach Gus Malzahn said. "He's mature, he can run. The moment doesn't seem too big for him. He has a nose for the ball, and plays physical."
"He's so focused and locked in," linebackers coach Travis Williams said.
Auburn practiced early Friday morning before class, allowing the Tigers to have the remainder of the day and Saturday to rest before resuming preparations for the Ducks on Sunday.
Jeff Shearer is a Senior Writer at AuburnTigers.com. Follow him on Twitter: @jeff_shearer