Rookie sensation RJ Harvey breaks tackles and outruns defenders for his eleventh touchdown, showcasing a dynamic all-around game.
UCF all-time touchdown leader RJ Harvey has continued his scoring theme in his rookie year. This past Sunday, Harvey scored his eleventh touchdown of the year, the most among rookies.
Harvey was extremely effective against the Jacksonville Jaguars, totaling 50 yards on the ground on only seven attempts. He continued his receiving prowess as well, hauling in four receptions for 71 yards, including a 32-yard catch.
Harvey's 32-yard reception was a simple check down to the flat, but Harvey beat the defense to the sideline, bursting for extra yardage.
But, Harvey's highlight of the night came on his 38-yard score. Harvey set up in the shotgun next to Denver Broncos starting quarterback Bo Nix and took the handoff up the middle. Harvey shot through the gap for ten yards before two Jaguars defenders converged on him. Harvey spun off both tackles, spinning off of both defenders and darting for the left sideline.
Once again, Harvey was met by a Jaguars defender, who he shrugged off, diving into the end zone for six before being met by his teammates in celebration.
Former Super Bowl winning coach Jon Gruden tweeted about the run on X, saying "RJ Harvey growing up fast! What a RUN!"
The score marked Harvey's longest rushing touchdown of his career and marked his fourth-straight game with a touchdown. Since taking over the lead-back role in week 11, Harvey is the tenth-highest scoring running back in all of fantasy football.
Harvey’s rapid ascent has been one of the more impressive developments of the rookie class, as the former Knight has quickly earned the trust of the coaching staff. His vision and patience between the tackles have paired well with his explosiveness in space and receiving ability, allowing Denver to lean on him during their 12-3 season.
Harvey has proven he can be a versatile weapon in head coach Sean Payton's modern offense. His emergence has also alleviated pressure on Nix, giving the rookie quarterback a reliable outlet and red-zone threat.
For UCF fans, Harvey’s success comes as little surprise. He was a consistent playmaker in Orlando, and his smooth transition to the NFL has only reinforced his reputation as a dynamic scorer at the next level.
The Broncos hold a one-game lead on the Los Angeles Chargers in the AFC West with two more games to play. Harvey will have an opportunity to help secure the division against the Chargers in the final game of the season.