Mack Named Freshman of Year Semifinalist
Arizona State running back Cardae Mack has become a semifinalist for the Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year Award.
Updated on Nov. 5, 2026 in Football
Arizona State freshman running back Cardae Mack is a semifinalist for the Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year Award. The 19-year-old has taken over as the Sun Devils' top running back this season.
Why it matters
The recognition highlights a freshman rising into a central role for a program that is 4-4 overall and 2-3 in the Big 12. Arizona State is effectively out of the running for a Big 12 title but still fighting for bowl eligibility.
Mack has 629 rushing yards and seven total touchdowns this season, placing second in freshman season totals behind receiver Reed Harris. Whether his production holds through the rest of the schedule has not been determined.
The players
Cardae Mack
Arizona State freshman running back from Texas who has become the Sun Devils' top ball carrier this season.
Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year Award
An annual college football award recognizing the top freshman player in the sport.
The details
Mack's style features relentless running, blocking and a high motor, traits that have carried him into the top running back role. Arizona State, which is 4-4 overall and 2-3 in the Big 12, faces Colorado next in Tempe.
Timeline
2026 season: Mack's freshman season earned award-semifinalist recognition.
Next game: Arizona State plays Colorado at Mountain America Stadium in Tempe, with kickoff shortly after 5:30 P.M. MST.
Season Trajectory
Mack's rise as a freshman back comes as Arizona State's Big 12 title hopes have faded, shifting the season's focus toward bowl eligibility. His individual recognition gives the Sun Devils a bright spot as they try to secure a postseason berth.
Mack's 629 rushing yards and seven total touchdowns make him a relevant option for fantasy managers tracking freshman backs. Fans heading to Mountain America Stadium can watch his production against Colorado this week.
The takeaway
Mack's emergence shows how quickly a freshman can become a program's primary option when the depth chart opens. Following his usage in the remaining games will show whether his role keeps expanding.
What happens next
Arizona State plays Colorado at Mountain America Stadium in Tempe, with kickoff shortly after 5:30 P.M. MST.
Further reading
For more on the Sun Devils' season, see Football coverage in Tempe.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Heavy.
