If someone is clearly head and shoulders above everyone else and should be the starter as a Frosh, then I think the coaches take this into consideration. Andonian eventually started. But other non athletic considerations are academic adjustment - it is hard to come in take a full class load, cut weight in most cases, and adjust to collegiate competition. I think sometimes it is better for the long term (even if they are starter quality) to get a year of classes under your belt and adjust to the new world. Then again, starting for a year, understanding the demands and then taking your second year as a redshirt to regroup can also lead to dividends in the third year - see Bolen.

I also think it depends on the potential for the Frosh to qualify for NCAA, AA or if the team can benefit (i.e. podium run). It yes to any of these then stronger consideration.

Generally, I think if a Frosh is clearly the front runner at a weight, the coaches will start them...unless they are try to coordinate roster or a team run at podium in later years. I can't think of a case where a clearly better guy was not starting.....