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2011-2012 College Bowl Season - Who to watch for draft day needs

Discussion in 'NFL Draft Forum' started by BigDogsHunt, Dec 17, 2011.

  1. BigDogsHunt

    BigDogsHunt Enough talk...prove it!

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    Kicks off today with 3 games all on ESPN via GBN Bowl Report

    New Mexico Bowl: Temple (8-4) vs. Wyoming (8-4); 2 PM ET; ESPN

    The resurgence continued at Temple this fall as the Owls won at least 8 games for the third consecutive season. For the record, that was after a dismal 18-year run of sub-.500 campaigns in which Temple won 2 or fewer games 12 times and ultimately got them booted from the Big East. Temple also had its first player selected in the opening round of the NFL draft since 1987 last spring when DT Muhammad Wilkerson was taken 30th pick overall by the Jets. No one at Temple is going to quite that high this spring, however, junior RB Bernard Pierce (#30, 5-11, 220), a bruising north-south runner with a burst, has legitimate top 100 potential after rushing for almost 1,400 yards this season. Meanwhile, DE/OLB Adrian Robinson (#43, 6-2, 250), the MAC Defensive Player of the Year in 2009 when he racked up 14 sacks, could get some later round looks as a rush-LB slot in a 3-4 scheme, although he has never really come close to replicating those numbers over the past two season. Temple also has a huge, veteran offensive line including LT Pat Boyle (#79, 6-4, 320), OGs Derek Dennis (#63, 6-4, 330) and Wayne Tribue (#69, 6-3, 325) and C John Palumbo (#77, 6-5, 315), while TEs Evan Rodriquez (#88, 6-2, 250), who probably plays FB at the next level, and Matt Balasavage (#89, 6-4, 260) make up one of the better duos at the position in the country. Back on the other side of the ball, DE Morkeith Brown (#85, 6-5, 260), MLB Stephen Johnson (#53, 6-0, 230), OLB Tahir Whitehead (#2, 6-1, 230), CB Kee-ayre Griffin (#20, 5-10, 190) and FS Kevin Kroboth (#37, 6-0, 200) have at least some free-agent ability. Wyoming had a nibe bounce back season winning 8 games for the first time sine the late 1990s. That new-found success on the field isn’t likely to translate into much of an impact at the 2012 draft, although CB Tashaun Gipson (#4, 6-0, 205), a big, physical cover corner, has some late-round potential while active LB Brian Hendricks (#8, 6-0, 230), and tweener DEs Josh Beizuns (#44, 6-2, 260) and Gabe Knapton (#52, 6-3, 263) could get some free-agent looks as rush LBs from teams running 3-4 schemes.


    Potato Bowl: Ohio (9-4) vs. Utah State (7-5); 5:30 PM ET; ESPN

    After going more than three decades without having any position player drafted at all, Ohio has a chance to make it four out of 5 years this coming April as both MLB Noah Keller (#47, 6-1, 245) and WR/PR LaVon Brazill (#7, 5-10, 190) have pro potential. Keller (#47, 6-1, 245) is a tackling machine who has 92 tackles this fall after racking up 155 in 2009. For his part, Brazill (#7, 5-10, 190) is a quick slot receiver who has also returned 4 punts for TDs in his career. The Bobcats also have a solid set of bookend OTs in A.J. Sturm (#79, 6-5, 300) and Joe Flading (#78, 6-4, 290) who could get free-agent looks this year, although neither is all that big. For its part, Utah State also has a couple of very productive collegiate performers. MLB Bobby Wagner (#9, 6-0, 235), for example, is one of those tackling machine after posting almost 300 tackles over the past couple of seasons including 140 in 2011. For good measure, Wagner, who figures to get some mid-to-late round looks at the upcoming draft, had 4 sacks and 2 picks. Meanwhile, junior RB Robert Taubin (#6, 5-10, 220) bounced back from a torn ACL suffered prior to the 2010 season to rush for over 1,400 yards and 19 scores this fall. And given his injury past, Taubin, the WAC Offensive Player of the Year, could be tempted to leave school early given his injury history. For the most part, though, Utah State is a relatively young team, but does have a couple of other free-agent prospects including OG Phillip Galepu (#8, 6-2, 300) and tweener DE Levi Koskan (#47, 6-4, 245).


    New Orleans Bowl: San Diego State (8-4) vs. Louisiana (8-4); 9 PM ET; ESPN

    San Diego State features the best QB prospect on the opening day of this year’s bowl schedule in veteran Ryan Lindley (#14, 6-4, 220), a solid second-tier prospect for the position for the upcoming draft. However, while Lindley has the size and arm strength to play at the next level, pro scouts will be looking for signs of improved accuracy in New Orleans after he completed just 53% of his pass attempts this fall. Meanwhile, disruptive OLB Miles Burris (#9, 6-3, 235), who had 8 sacks and 11 other tackles for loss this fall, heads an opportunistic defense. San Diego State’s best player, though, is sophomore scatback Ronnie Hillman (#13, 5-9, 185), who was 4th in the country in rushing this fall with almost 1,700 yards. Fortunately, Louisiana, which used to be Louisiana–Lafayette and before that Southwestern Louisiana, are still the Ragin’ Cajuns, just maybe the best nickname in all college football. And The Ragin’ Cajuns may have their best prospect ever in TE Ladarius Green (#89, 6-5, 235), arguably one of the best receiving TEs in college football. The rangy Green had 46 catches this season, including 7 scores, after averaging 18 yards per reception in 2010. However, Green is the Ragin’ Cajuns only legitimate prospect for the upcoming draft, although OLB Devon Lewis-Buchanan (#11, 6-2, 220), CBs Dwight ‘Bill’ Bentley (#5-10, 180) and Melvin White (#22, 6-2, 195), DE Bernard Smith (#44, 6-2, 240), and SS Lionel Stokes (#24, 6-0, 225) could conceivably get some free-agent consideration.
     
  2. djphinfan

    djphinfan Season Ticket Holder Club Member

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    What up Dog...
     
  3. BigDogsHunt

    BigDogsHunt Enough talk...prove it!

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    Temple rolled nicely....on to the next one.
     
  4. UCF FINatic

    UCF FINatic The Miami Dolphins select

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    are you going to do this for every bowl game? I would absolutely love it... So, pretty please... with a cherry on top? :)
     
  5. BigDogsHunt

    BigDogsHunt Enough talk...prove it!

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    What a great comeback win for Ohio in closing seconds.
     
  6. BigDogsHunt

    BigDogsHunt Enough talk...prove it!

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    I hope and expect others to find content and post to benefit all....watching the Bowl season is the last real game action (aside from FUN all-star games) to really see some of these draft eligible players.
     
  7. BigDogsHunt

    BigDogsHunt Enough talk...prove it!

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    ULL pulled it out with last second FG after Lindley drove SDSU for go ahead score. Two really great games out of 3 to kick this puppy off.
     
  8. BigDogsHunt

    BigDogsHunt Enough talk...prove it!

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    December 20th

    Brady Bunch Bowl; Marshall (6-6) vs. Florida International (7-5); St. Petersburg; 8 PM ET; ESPN


    At least on paper one would not expect many to reasons to watch a bow match-up between a 7-5 Sun Belt team and a .500 team from the MAC, but looks can be deceiving. Indeed, there will be a couple of potential top 100 prospects on display when FIU takes on Marshall in something called the Beef O’Brady's Bowl. Marshall DE Vinny Curry (#99, 6-4, 260), who had 11 sacks and 10 other tackles for loss this season, for example, is one of the more disruptive prospects at the position in the 2012 draft, while Florida International WR/KR T.Y. Hilton (#4, 5-9, 185) is a very good receiver and even better kick returner. Indeed, Hilton, who has 64 receptions for almost 1,000 yards to date this fall, has averaged 23 yards per punt return this season and 32 yards per pop on KOs.

    There is a huge drop-off on both rosters after those two, although Marshall does have several players who could get free-agent looks including CB Rashad Jackson (#5, 5-9, 180), FS Omar Brown (#31, 5-10, 195), NT Delvin Johnson (#98, 6-2, 315), OLBs Tyson Gale (#47, 6-1, 230) and George Carpenter (#48, 5-11, 225), LT Ryan Tillman (#73, 6-5, 285) and OG C.J. Wood (#75, 6-5, 305), while athletic FIU QB Wesley Carroll (#13, 6-1, 205) could interest some CFL teams.
     
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  9. UCF FINatic

    UCF FINatic The Miami Dolphins select

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    Lol I was going to mention those two players!

    I could see Curry as a 2nd round pick. He has the body and build of a 3-4 OLB and has the production to match.

    I can see T.Y. Hilton as a 3rd or 4th rounder (he might last into the 5th, but I doubt it). Hilton can flat out fly, that being said he has a small frame (He looks skinnier than Ted Ginn) and I don't know if he would be able to handle the beating in the NFL.
     
  10. BigDogsHunt

    BigDogsHunt Enough talk...prove it!

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    Marshall stepped up and played a better game and really shut FIU down after halftime.
     
  11. BigDogsHunt

    BigDogsHunt Enough talk...prove it!

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    December 21st

    Poinsettia Bowl; Texas Christian (10-2) vs. Louisiana Tech (8-4); San Diego; 8 PM ET; ESPN


    One needs look no farther than TCU to get a good whiff of what is wrong with the BCS system. The Horned Frogs won ten games this fall, claimed the Mountain West title and finished in the top 20 in the BCS rankings, but still only ended up in a 4th tier bowl against a very non-descript opponent. Hopefully for the folks at TCU, which has a 46-5 record over the past four years without getting so much as a sniff at the national title game, their BCS fortunes take a turn for the better next year when they join the Big XII next fall. And while they still won ten games this fall, the Horned Frogs were actually in something of a reloading mode this fall and likely won’t have much of an impact at the upcoming draft. The exception could be OLB Tank Carder (#43, 6-2, 230), a versatile playmaker who has mid-round potential this coming April. The Horned Frogs, though, do have a later round or free-agent prospects including WR Antoine Hicks (#13, 6-1, 215), TE Logan Brock (#80, 6-3, 260), OG Kyle Dooley (#55, 6-3, 315), FS Johnny Fobbs (#21, 6-0, 205), SS Tekerrien Cuba (#1, 6-3, 210) and CB Greg McCoy (#7, 5-9, 185).

    Louisiana Tech hasn’t gotten much respect from pro scouts over the past decade and that isn’t likely to change any time soon. However, the Bulldogs did have at least one mid-to-late round prospect in RB Lennon Creer (#, 6-0, 215), the one-time superstar recruit at Tennessee who has run for over 2,000 yards the past couple of seasons, but he has been ruled academically ineligible and won’t play. Veteran MLB Adrien Cole (#44, 5-11, 240) could also generate some later round interest, while, DE Matt Broha (#91, 6-3, 235), OLB Jay Dudley (#45, 6-2, 225) and CB Terry Carter (#28, 5-10, 190) could be post-draft free-agent targets. Meanwhile, junior P Ryan Allen (#86, 6-2, 215) emerged as the best kicker in college football this fall, while junior WR Quinton Patton (#4, 6-1, 195) blossomed into a 1,000 yard receiver after transferring from the junior college ranks.
     
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  12. UCF FINatic

    UCF FINatic The Miami Dolphins select

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    La Tech really gave them a run for their money. If you look at La Techs season, record, and the opponents they have played they had a hell of a year. Their coach just signed a 2 year extension so I expect some big things from that program.

    Tank is a very solid player, he has great instincts and tackles well.
     
  13. BigDogsHunt

    BigDogsHunt Enough talk...prove it!

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    December 22nd

    Las Vegas Bowl; Boise State (11-1) vs. Arizona State (6-6); 8 PM ET; ESPN

    As insulting to college football fans as was last night’s Poinsettia Bowl, to which 18th ranked and Mountain West champion TCU was banished because it isn’t yet a member of a BCS conference, it has nothing on tonight’s MAACO Bowl where once again 7th ranked Boise State gets to play the dregs - to wit a 6-6 Arizona State team - from the Pac-12. And that 6-6 record actually flatters ASU in that the Sun Devils were only 4-5 in conference play, lost 5 of their final 6 games and are only bowl eligible thanks to a win over a sub-.500 D1AA team. Certainly, its hard to argue that 10-3 Georgia, which Boise State beat by two TDs right in Atlanta and is ranked ten spots lower than BSU, deserves to be in a January 2 bowl game against a quality Big 10 opponent, unless of course the fix was in! However, while the BCS pretends not to notice, NFL scouts will certainly be paying attention as the Broncos should feature one of the deeper draft classes in the country. DT Billy Winn (#90, 6-3, 295), who figures to be one of the better 5-tech DEs prospects this year, LT Nate Potter (#73, 6-6, 300), and thumping RB Doug Martin (#22, 5-9, 215), for example, are solid second-day prospects who rate among the top seniors at their respective positions. Meanwhile, emerging DEs Tyrone Crawford (#40, 6-3, 275) and Shea McClellin (#92, 6-3, 260) and SS George Iloka (#8, 6-2, 220) aren’t all that far behind. At the same time, MLB Byron Huot (#94, 6-0, 240), TE Kyle Efaw (#80, 6-3, 245), DT Chase Baker (#97, 6-1, 300) are later round or free agent types, while WR Tyler Shoemaker (#89, 6-0, 215), WLB Aaron Tevis (#36, 6-2, 235) and RB D.J. Harper (#6, 5-9, 210) are sleeper types who haven’t played a lot to date, but have some skill. The most talked about Boise State prospect this year no doubt will be QB Kellen Moore (#11, 6-0, 190), one of the most efficient passers in college football history, but who likely lacks the size and arm strength to rate as more than a marginal pro prospect.

    On top of everything else, Arizona State comes to Las Vegas with questions about its top prospects. In a perfect world, for example, junior MLB Vontaze Burfict (#7, 6-2, 252) would be the consensus top prospect at the position and a legitimate top 10-15 candidate for the upcoming draft. Indeed, Burfict has prototype size and athleticism and flashes big-tim playmaking ability on occasion. However, Burfict also disappears for long stretches and has a reputation as a selfish, undisciplined player who may or may not start against BSU after being relegated to the second unit defense since taking a couple of costly penalties in the Sun Devils season finale. Meanwhile, veteran CB Omar Bolden (#3, 5-10, 195) would also likely have gotten some top 100 consideration this coming April, however, he tore an ACL for the second time in his career during spring practice this year and has not played this season. ASU, though, does have several second-tier prospects to watch including full-sized WRs Gerell Robinson (#8, 6-3, 225) and Mike Willie (#1, 6-3, 215), while veteran C Garth Gerhart (#52, 6-1, 300), the brother of former Stanford star RB Toby Gerhart, DE Jamaar Jarrett (#92, 6-5, 260), and OLB Colin Parker (#21, 6-0, 230) could get some free-agent interest. Pro scouts will also be watching junior QB Brock Osweiler (#17, 6-7, 235), a rangy pocket passer with a strong arm and enough athleticism to also have received scholarship offers from several D1 basketball programs, and who could attract some second-day interest were he to enter the upcoming draft.
     
  14. BigDogsHunt

    BigDogsHunt Enough talk...prove it!

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    December 24th

    Hawaii Bowl; Southern Mississippi (11-2) vs. Nevada (7-5); 8 PM ET; ESPN

    Southern Mississippi is another one of those non-AQ schools that probably deserves a much better bowl fate than playing on Xmas eve, although there are probably worse things than having to spend part of the holidays in Hawaii. For the record, Southern Miss has already won 11 games this year and caused a stir when they won the C-USA championship with an upset win over previously unbeaten Houston earlier this month, although in the process they cost themselves and the rest of the teams in the conference millions of dollars in BCS payola. Southern Miss, though, isn’t likely to have a major impact at the 2012 draft, but the Golden Eagles do have at least a couple of mid-to-late round prospects in athletic veteran QB Austin Davis (#12, 6-2, 200), who has completed 62% of his passes this fall and thrown for 28 scores against 11 interceptions, and DE Cordarro Law (#49, 6-2, 255), a disruptive edge-rusher who almost personally destroyed the Houston offense in the C-USA title game. Meanwhile, OLB Ronnie Thornton (#56, 6-2, 230), SS Kendrick Presley (#26, 6-2, 200) and PK Danny Hrapmann (#34, 5-9, 160) could generate some later round or free agent interest, while OTs Lamar Holmes (#72, 6-5, 335) and Jason Weaver (#52, 6-5, 315) are big bookend tackles that should get some free-agent calls after the draft.

    It was back to reality this fall for Nevada after last year’s dream season in which the Wolfpack won 13 games and the WAC conference title. The Wolfpack also had its best draft ever when QB Colin Kaepernick and DE Dontay Moch were both selected in the second round. However, Nevada isn’t likely to have anyone drafted quite as early this coming April as in 2012, but still has its share of players with at least mid-round potential in MLB James-Michael Johnson (#52, 6-1, 240), WR Rishard Matthews (#15, 6-1, 215), and DT Brett Roy (#47, 6-3, 280). Matthews, for example, has 91 receptions this fall for almost 1,400 yards, while Roy, who could get some looks as a 5-tech 3-4 DE, has ten sacks on the season. Meanwhile CB Isaiah Frey (#28, 5-11, 190) and OLB Brandon Marshall (#33, 6-0, 235) could get some later round or free-agent consideration.
     
  15. djphinfan

    djphinfan Season Ticket Holder Club Member

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    He sure does, he also recognizes and gets to point b in explosive manner...I want that guy with our 2nd if things fall right with our first.
     
  16. BigDogsHunt

    BigDogsHunt Enough talk...prove it!

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    December 26th
    Independence Bowl; Shreveport: North Carolina (7-5) vs. Missouri (7-5); 8 PM ET; ESPN2

    North Carolina could very well have the biggest impact on the early going of the 2012 draft as nay team not playing in a New Year’s Day or later bowl. Indeed, the Tar Heels have at least a couple of potential first rounders in DE Quinton Coples (#90, 6-5, 285) and OLB Zach Brown (#47, 6-2, 230), although both have seen their stock slide somewhat this season. Colpes, for example, entered the year considered to be a potential top 5 pick, however, despite racking up 7.5 sacks this fall, didn’t always make a seamless transition to DE after sliding outside from DT. Meanwhile, pro scouts have no concerns about Brown’s speed and explosiveness, but there are questions about his natural football instincts, as well as the fact that he isn’t all that physical. At the same time, WR Dwight Jones (#83, 6-3, 225) is a legitimate second-day prospect after catching 79 passes for over 1,100 yards and 11 scores this fall, while, DT Tydreke Powell (#91, 6-2, 315), CB Charles Brown (#12, 5-9, 205), RB Ryan Houston (#32, 6-2, 245), C Cam Holland (#65, 6-2, 320), FB/HB Christian Wilson (#33, 6-2, 250), and SS Jonathan Smith (#28, 6-1, 210) are later round prospects. Pro scouts will also be watching several other UNC juniors including DE Donte Paige-Moss (#98, 6-4, 260), DT Sylvester Williams (#92, 6-2, 320), and MLB Kevin Reddick (#48, 6-2, 240), each of whom figures to get their share of early-to-mid round interest should any opt to enter this year‘s draft.

    The Independence Bowl will be Missouri’s swan song in the Big XII as the Tigers move to the ultra competitive SEC next fall. The Tigers’ streak of having at least one player selected in the opening round for three straight years could be in some jeopardy this spring, although Missouri does have one of the best pass-caching TEs in the country in rangy Michael Egnew (#47, 6-5, 245) who had 47 receptions this fall. Egnew, though, is the only Missouri player likely to be taken within the first 3-4 rounds, although the Tigers also have a couple of decent later round prospects in OT Dan Hoch (#77, 6-6, 320) and DE Jacquies Smith (#3, 6-4, 255), while WRs Jerrell Jackson (#29, 6-1, 185) and Wes Kemp (#8, 6-3, 220), DTs Dominique Hamilton (#90, 6-4, 305) and Terrell Resonno (#93, 6-4, 295), SS Kenji Jackson (#13, 5-10, 200), and OGs Jayson Palmgren (#71, 6-2, 305) and Austin Wuebbels (#66, 6-3, 295) are possible free-agent targets.
     
  17. BigDogsHunt

    BigDogsHunt Enough talk...prove it!

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    December 27th
    Pizza Bowl; Detroit: Purdue (6-6) vs. Western Michigan (7-5); 4:30 PM ET; ESPN

    At least on paper, a match-up between a .500 Big 10 team and a MAC also-ran in a bowl named after a take-out food outlet, doesn’t sound like much and while this afternoon’s game between Western Michigan and Purdue will likely never be confused with a classic, there are several intriguing players worth the price of admission. Western Michigan WR Jordan White (#83, 6-0, 215), for example, led the entire in country in receiving this fall as he hauled in 127 passes for 1,650 yards and 16 TDs. Those numbers still haven’t translated into a ton of respect from pro scouts for White, but he does appear to be slowly moving up draft boards around the league. Meanwhile, both teams have very good interior defensive linemen in DTs Drew Nowak (#92, 6-3, 295) and Purdue junior Kawann Short (#93, 6-2, 305). Nowak was an unknown coming into the season, but blossomed into a disruptive interior defender when he posted 8.5 sacks and 20 total tackles for loss, although he still appears to be more a late round prospect at this time. Short, who had 6.5 sacks of is own as well as 11 other tackles for loss this fall, on the other hand, could get some top 100 consideration if he were to opt to enter this year’s draft.

    Other Boilermakers to watch include OTs Dennis Kelly (#68, 6-7, 305) and Nick Mondek (#62, 6-5, 300), WR Justin Siller (#2, 6-3, 225), DE Gerald Gooden (#2, 6-2, 235), OLB Joe Holland (#30, 6-1, 225), safeties Albert Evans (#32, 6-0, 210) and Logan Link (#35, 6-0, 205) and PK Carson Wiggs (#37, 6-0, 205) who should at least get some serious free-agent consideration. At the same time, other WMU Broncos to watch include MLB Mitch Zajac (#47, 6-0, 230), LT Anthony Parker (#72, 6-5, 325), and WR Chleb Ravenal (#13, 5-10, 190), while junior QB Alex Carder (#14, 6-2, 225) is a strong-armed pocket passer with some mobility who could be a factor early at the 2013 draft.


    Belk Bowl; Charlotte: Louisville (7-5) vs. North Carolina State (7-5); 8 PM ET; ESPN


    For those who were wondering, a ‘belk’ is a department store common to the southeast. Certainly an excellent name for a college bowl game! The one thing that Belk won’t be selling this week are any first round draft picks destined for the 2012 draft. In fact, there are no locks to even be selected within the first three rounds this year, although North Carolina State MLB Audie Cole (#42, 6-3, 240), TE George Bryan (#84, 6-5, 265) and DT J.R. Sweezy (#52, 6-5, 295) may ot be all that far off. NC State also has a number of later round or free agent candidates including QB Mike Glennon (#8, 6-5, 225), WR/KR T.J. Graham (#6, 5-11, 180), and WLB Dwayne Maddox (#41, 6-2, 235). The Wolfpack, though, may have a future top pick in sophomore CB David Amerson (#1, 6-2, 185), who led all college football with 11 interceptions this fall, although he won’t be draft eligible until next year. Meanwhile, juniors Terrell Manning (#35, 6-2,230), a WLB who led the team in tackles, and SS Eral Wolff (#27, 6-0, 205) are also good ones.

    It is also a given that Louisville, won’t have anyone selected anywhere near this this year’s opening round. In fact, Louisville will be hard-pressed to have anyone selected at all this coming April, although TE Josh Chichester (#11, 6-7, 240), a converted WR who is built more like a power forward, could attract some late-round interest, while active MLB Dexter Heyman (#46, 6-2, 240) could be something of a sleeper.
     
  18. BigDogsHunt

    BigDogsHunt Enough talk...prove it!

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    December 28th
    Miliary Bowl; Washington: Toledo (8-4) vs. Air Force (7-5); 4:30 PM ET; ESPN

    Toledo against Air Force in the Military Bowl likely won’t lack for pure entertainment value, but unfortunately there isn’t much of the way of draft prospects on either side. The one exception, though, is star Toledo junior WR/KR Eric Page. Page, who made a number of All-America teams this fall, was third in the country in receiving this fall as he hauled in 112 catches for over 1,100 yards and 10 TDs. For good measure, Page also ranked 6th in nation in KO returns this fall and 17th in punt returns. However, even if he were to enter this year’s draft, Page who isn’t all that big or fast and is more a possession receiver, isn’t likely to be considered to be more than a mid-round prospect at best. Toledo has several decent seniors including LT Mike VanderMeulen (#74, 6-6, 305), CB Desmond Marrow (#3, 6-2, 210), and scatback Adonis Thomas (#24, 5-9, 185), but again none is rated as more than a free-agent prospect at this time.

    Not surprisingly, Air Force, which hasn’t had a player drafted since 1999, also isn‘t likely to have any seniors drafted this year, however, the Falcons have several players that at least could play for any team in the country including FS Jon Davis (#6, 6-0, 200), CB Anthony Wright (#5, 5-9, 190), C/G A. J. Wallerstein (#73, 6-3, 295), and LBs Jordan Waiwaiole (#32, 6-2, 260) and Brady Amack (#41, 6-0, 230), while, dual-threat QB Tim Jefferson (#7, 6-0, 200) and RB Asher Clark (#17, 5-8, 185) are both very productive offensive skill players who are fun to watch, but neither has the size to play at the next level even if they didn’t have their military obligations.


    Holiday Bowl; San Diego: Texas (7-5) vs. California (7-5); 8 PM ET; ESPN

    California has had a player selected in the opening round of the draft for the past three years, however, that streak would appear to be in jeopardy this coming April. The Golden Bears, though, do have a couple of solid second-day prospects in DE Trevor Guyton (#92, 6-3, 290), who is drawing a lot of interest as a 5-tech DE, and disruptive OLB LBs Mychal Kendricks (#30, 6-0, 245), the Pac-12 defensive player of year. Cal also has a number of decent mid-to-late round candidates including OT Mitchell Schwartz (#72, 6-5, 325), SS Sean Cattouse (#11, 6-1, 215), LB D.J. Holt (#3, 6-1, 255), WR Marvin Jones (#1, 6-1, 200), TE Anthony Miller (#80, 6-2, 265), and P Bryan Anger (#19, 6-4, 205).

    In normal years, folks at Texas would be dismayed about playing in only the Holiday Bowl, but after last seasons disaster in which the Longhorns missed the post-season entirely, its at least a step in the right direction. The problem at Texas, though, remains that for whatever reason Texas just isn‘t all that talented right now. However, the Longhorns do have at least a couple of potential second-day prospects for 2012 in MLB Keenan Robinson (#1, 6-3, 235) and DT Kendall Randall (#91, 6-5, 295), both of whom are among the top seniors at their respective positions, while OLB Emmanuel Acho (#18, 6-2, 240), the brother of 2011 4th rounder Sam Acho, isn't that far behind. Meanwhile, FS Blake Gideon (#21, 6-0, 205), FB Cody Johnson (#11, 5-11, 250), G/C David Snow (#78, 6-3, 295), OT Tray Allen (#56, 6-3, 310), DB Christian Scott (#6, 6-1, 220), and P/PK Justin Tucker (#19, 6-1, 185) are later-round or free-agent candidates. Pro scouts will also be keeping an eye on junior DE Alex Okafor (#80, 6-5, 260) and sophomore DE Jackson Jeff coat (#44, 6-5, 255) who are probably the strength of the team.
     
  19. BigDogsHunt

    BigDogsHunt Enough talk...prove it!

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    December 29th

    Champs Sports Bowl; Orlando ; Florida State (8-4) vs. Notre Dame (8-4); 5:30 PM ET; ESPN

    There isn’t a big secret why Notre Dame hasn't been in a major bowl for what seems like forever; despite recruiting at the national level, the Irish just have not been very fast or talented in long while. In fact, Notre Dame has not had a player taken among the top 10 picks at an NFL draft since 1994 and have had only 2 players selected in the opening round in the past decade. That could this coming April, though, as WR Michael Floyd (#5, 6-3, 220) has reportedly moved up close to the top 10 on a lot of draft boards around the league after catching 95 passes for over 1,100 yards and 11 scores this season. However, while few question Floyd’s skill on the field, he does have some off-field questions to answer. On the one hand, Floyd has had some injury issues in his ND career; more importantly, he spent the summer under suspension after being charged with a DUI, which is not the first arrest on his blotter. The NFL also thought there was a chance they’d get a shot at a second Irish player in the opening round, however, star junior MLB Manti Te‘O (#5, 6-2, 255) has already announced he‘ll be returning to school next fall. Meanwhile, junior LB Tyler Eifert (#80, 6-5, 250) would also likely be among the top players at the position off the board this spring, but he too is expected to be back in class next fall. The, though, do have several solid mid-round prospects in SS Harrison Smith (#22, 6-2, 215), OLB Darius Fleming (#45, 6-2, 250), and DE Ethan Johnson (#90, 6-3, 300), while CBs Robert Blanton (#12, 6-0, 200) and Gary Gray (#4, 5-10, 195), OG Trevor Robinson (#78, 6-4, 300), OT Trevor Dever (#75, 6-5, 305), C Mike Golic (#57, 6-3, 295), and PK David Ruffer (#6-1, 175) are later round or free agent types.

    Like Notre Dame, Florida State appears to be slowing inching its way back to the ranks of college football’s elite teams, although the program also appears to be a year or two away from having a major impact on the early going at the draft. The Seminoles, though, have at least one prospect with first-round potential in junior DE Brandon Jenkins (#49, 6-3, 260), who will get some looks as a 3-4 rush-LB, although his numbers were down this year as he had only 7 sacks compared with 13.5 last fall. Meanwhile, OT Zebrie Sanders (#77, 6-5, 310) and OLB Nigel Bradham (#13, 6-2, 240) have top 100 potential, while WR Bert Reed (#83, 5-9, 175), OG David Spurlock (#79, 6-3, 300), and P Shawn Powell (#45, 6-4, 235), who averaged 47 yards per punt this fall, are later round or free-agent types. There have also been rumblings around the program that both QB E.J. Manual (#3, 6-5,235) and CB Greg Reid (#5, 5-8, 185) are considering entering the draft with a year of eligibility left, although neither is likely more than a mid-round candidate.


    Alama Bowl; San Antonio; Baylor (9-3) vs. Washington (7-5); 9 PM ET; ESPN

    Anyone who has yet to see Baylor junior QB Robert Griffin (#10, 6-2, 220), this year’s Heisman Trophy winner, is in for a treat when the Bears play Washington in the Alamo Bowl. Griffin will be hoping to add to his resume against the Huskies after completing 72% of his pass attempts so far this season while throwing for 3,998 yards and 36 TDs against only 6 picks. For good measure, the athletic Griffin also ran for 644 yards and another 9 scores. Griffin, who has gone from a potential afterthought to a likely top 5 pick about as fast as anyone in history, is expected to announce that he will be entering the draft after the game. And Griffin may not be Baylor‘s only first round prospect as speedy WR Kendall Wright (#1, 5-9, 190), a big-play threat who caught 101 passes for almost 1,600 yards and 13 TDs is also starting to get a ton of respect from pro scouts. For good measure, the Bears also have several other pro prospects including RB Terrance Ganaway (#24, 6-0, 240), who pounded out almost 1,400 yards of his own this fall, C Philip Blake (#74, 6-2, 315), OG Robert T. Griffin (#79, 6-5, 335), DTs Tracy Robertson (#13, 6-3, 285) and Nic Jean-Baptiste (#90, 6-2, 315), and LB Elliott Coffey (#4, 6-0, 230).

    Washington, which was an embarrassing 0-12 as recently as 2008, took another major step back to football respectability posting a second-straight 7-win season with 4 of their 5 losses coming against ranked opponents. The Huskies also have a number of prospects for the upcoming draft, although none is going to go anywhere near as early as QB Jake Locker who was selected 8th overall this past April. Junior RB Chris Polk (#1, 5-10, 215), a bruising back who has run for almost 1,400 yards this fall, and massive DT Alameda Ta’amu (#74, 6-3,330), for example, are solid second-day prospects, while WR Jermaine Kearse (#15, 6-1, 205) isn’t all that far behind. Meanwhile, LT Senio Kelemete (#56, 6-4, 290), DE Everrette Thompson (#92, 6-5, 245), CB Quinton Richardson (#28, 5-11, 200), WR Devin Aguilar (#9, 5-11, 190), and ILB Cort Dennison (#31, 6-0, 240) are later-round or free-agent possibilities.
     
  20. BigDogsHunt

    BigDogsHunt Enough talk...prove it!

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    Well Baylor vs. Washington was a game for the ages....and instant classic as they say.....
     
  21. BigDogsHunt

    BigDogsHunt Enough talk...prove it!

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    December 30th

    Armed Forces Bowl; Dallas; Noon PM ET; ESPN Tulsa (8-4) vs. BYU (9-3)

    In a year in which the landscape of college football was dramatically altered, BYU made perhaps the most unique move ditching the Mountain West for independent status. Unfortunately, going independent doesn’t appear to have gotten BYU much closer to college football’s big-time as the Cougars won nine games, but were still relegated to a minor bowl. Maybe next year, though, as most of BYU’s better players including junior QB Riley Nelson (#13, 6-0, 200), sophomore WR Cody Hoffman (#2, 6-3, 205), frosh WR Ross Apo (#11, 6-2, 205), junior OT Braden Brown (#75, 6-5, 305), junior OG Braden Hansen (#76, 6-5, 310), junior LB Brandon Ogle tree (#44, 5-11, 225), and sophomore LB Kyle Van Noy (#45, 6-2, 225) are underclassmen. The one big - both literally and figuratively - exception is veteran OT Matt Reynolds (#70, 6-5, 325), one of the most physical tackles in the country, although he likely lacks the quick feet to figure at LT at the next level. However, Reynolds is the Cougar who looks to be a lock to be drafted this coming April, although OLB Jordan Pendleton (#1, 6-2, 240), FS Travis Uale (#23, 6-1, 200), CB Corby Eason (#25, 5-8, 175) and C Terence Brown (#60, 6-3, 330) all have some free-agent potential.

    Tulsa has also quietly emerged as one of the better teams outside the ranks of the BCS conferences over the past few years and may actually have a slightly stronger draft class than the more heralded BYU. QB G.J. Kinne (#4, 6-2, 215), a former Texas ’Mr. Football who was originally recruited by the Longhorns before transferring to Tulsa doesn‘t have the gaudy numbers of conference rival Case Keenum down at Houston, but has emerged as a productive spread offense passer who can also run. Meanwhile, LB Curnelius Aldrick (#32, 6-0, 230) is a versatile backer who has racked up 142 stops this fall, while DE Tyrunn Walker (#94, 6-3, 265) is a sneaky quick edge rusher who has 8 sacks this season. The Golden Hurricanes are assured of at least one first-round pick this year as OT Tyler Holmes (#78, 6-4, 305), a Canadian who took over the LT spot literally the day he stepped on campus, was chosen 7th overall by Toronto at this year‘s CFL draft.


    Pinstripe Bowl; New York; 3:20 PM ET; ESPN Iowa State (6-6) vs. Rutgers (8-4)

    The terms college football bowl game and New York City in January don’t have a natural jibe so the folks in Pinstripes are probably happy enough that they could entice a 6-6 Big XII team to play sort of home-town Rutgers in the cold. In fact, the happiest people at the game may be pro scouts as both teams have a player with at least some first-round potential for the 2012 draft. Rutgers junior WR Mohamed Sanu (#6, 6-2, 220), for example, emerged this fall as one of the best possession receivers in the country as he caught 109 passes despite the fact that the Scarlet Knights really didn’t throw the ball all that well. Meanwhile, Iowa State OG Kelechi Osemele (#72, 6-5, 355) is a huge road grader inside who could conceivably also play RT at the next level. The Cyclones also have one of the more physical CBs in the conference in Leonard Johnson (#23, 5-10, 195) who has mid-round potential for the upcoming draft. Other than that, though, there aren‘t many players on either side who are going to get much more than a cursory look from NFL teams. Rutgers‘ best player other than Sunu, for example, is junior LB Khasseem Greene (#20, 6-0, 225), the Big East defensive player of the year, but he has already said he‘ll be back in school next year. There is a similar story at ISU which also has a pair of outstanding junior LBs in A.J. Klein (#47, 6-1, 245) and Jake Knott (#20, 6-1, 245), while SS Ter’Ran Benton (#22, 6-0, 210), OG Hayworth Hicks (#75, 6-3, 325) and WR Darius Darks (#6, 6-0, 195) are veterans with some free-agent potential.


    Music City Bowl; Nashvlle; 6:40 PM ET; ESPN Mississippi State (6-6) vs. Wake Forest (6-6)

    Have been to Nashville. Nice place and really super people. So its hard to figure how the good folks there ended up a match-up of 6-6 teams that rates as one of the least attractive of this year's bowl schedule. If there is a redeeming aspect of this game, though, it is that there are several players worth watching for the 2012 draft. In particular, Mississippi State has one of the rising stars of the 2012 draft in junior DT Fletcher Cox (#94, 6-4, 295) who has begun receive some serious first-round buzz should he in fact opt sto turn pro this winter. Junior CB Johnathan Banks (#13, 6-1, 195) is also reportedly considering his pro options and could get some second-day consideration if he chooses to enter the upcoming draft. Meanwhile, veteran RB Vick Ballard (#28, 5-10, 215) is a solid mid-round prospect, while LT James Carmon (#77, 6-6, 330), SS Charles Mitchell (#4, 5-10, 205), QB Chris Relf (#14, 6-4, 240), C Quentin Saulsberry, FS Wade Bonner (#7, 5-10, 190) and LB Brandon Wilson (#58, 6-0, 235) are more free-agent types. The pickings are slimmer at Wake Forest where the Demon Deacons do not have anyone close to be being a lock for this year’s draft. However, Wake does have a number of solid players who if they aren’t selected should get free-agent interest including OLB Kyle Wilbur (#97, 6-4, 240), OG Joe Looney (#78, 6-3, 320), SS Cyhl Quarles (#5, 6-2, 210), and FS Josh Bush(#4, 5-11, 205).


    Insight Bowl; Tempe; 10 PM ET; ESPN Oklahoma (9-3) vs. Iowa (7-5)

    The best game of the day should be the Insight Bowl where Oklahoma and Iowa will face off. Truth be told, though, both teams entered the season with much higher goals in mind. The Sooners, for example, started out the season as the #1 team in the country, but hit a ew unexpected road bumps along the way. Their prospects at the 2012 draft have also taken a few hits. It wasn't all that long ago, for example, that junior QB Landry Jones (#12, 6-4, 230) was being mentioned in the same breath as Andrew Luck and Matt Barclay as a potential top 5-10 pick this year, however, Jones efficiency dipped the last month of the schedule after star WR Ryan Broyles was lost for the year. Landry will still likely be a first-round pick if he does opt to enter this year's draft, but he's currently rated somewhere in the bottom half of the top 30 prospects. Along with Jones and Broyles, who almost certainly won’t be able to work out prior to the draft, junior OLB Travis Lewis (#28, 6-1, 235), who carried a late first round grade into the season, has also seen his status hampered by injuries. Same for junior DE/OLB Ronnell Lewis (#56, 6-2, 245) and CB Jamell Fleming (#32, 5-11, 190). The Sooners, though, do have a number of decent second-tier prospects including DE Frank Alexander (#84, 6-3, 260), TE James Hanna (#82, 6-4, 240), OG Stephen Good (#77, 6-4, 295) and LT Donald Stephenson (#59, 6-5, 310). For good measure, Oklahoma also has one of the better kickers in the country in junior P Tress Way (#36, 6-1, 225).

    For its part, Iowa had visions of at least making the inaugural Big 10 championship, but were never really in contention. If there is any consolation for the Hawkeyes its that they have a chance to make it three years in a row with a player being selected in the opening round of the NFL draft if junior OT Riley Reiff (#77, 6-5, 300), one of the more athletic LT prospects in the country, opts to leave school early and enter the 2012 draft. Indeed, no one will be shocked if Reilly,who is very light on his feet, goes in the first ten picks or so. Iowa also has a couple of solid late second-day prospects in CB Shaun Prater (#28, 5-10, 180) and WR Marvin McNutt (#7, 6-3, 215), while LB Tyler Nielsen (#45, 6-4, 235), 5-tech DE Mike Daniels (#93, 6-1, 280), DE Broderick Binns (#91, 6-2, 265), OG Adam Gettis (#73, 6-4, 290) and P Eric Guthrie (#6, 6-5, 245) are late-round or free-agent types.
     
  22. Stitches

    Stitches ThePhin's Biggest Killjoy Luxury Box

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    BDH, Oklahoma isn't playing Iowa State. :wink2:
     
    BigDogsHunt likes this.
  23. GridIronKing34

    GridIronKing34 Silently Judging You

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    Keep an eye on McNutt... he's legit. It will be in interesting who steps up with Coker suspended... still no idea what he has been suspended for.
     
  24. Stitches

    Stitches ThePhin's Biggest Killjoy Luxury Box

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    I know we don't need a RB, but can we please draft Ballard?
     
  25. padre31

    padre31 Premium Member Luxury Box

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    ESPN reporting Landry Jones is declaring for the draft.
     
  26. KB21

    KB21 Almost Never Wrong Club Member

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    Interesting. I wonder if Oklahoma may be pushing him to go some, because they have to like the idea of playing that Bell kid more next year. Either that, or Landry is making a move to go before Bell starts taking more of his playing time away.
     
  27. KB21

    KB21 Almost Never Wrong Club Member

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    If Daniel Thomas can't stay healthy, we definitely need a running back. Right now, I don't have much confidence in Daniel Thomas's ability to produce with Bush out.

    I'm a Dan Mullen fan, but how in the heck does Vick Ballard get only 13 rush attempts?
     
  28. alen1

    alen1 New Member

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    Yikes. Might be this years Gabbert in terms of pocket presence.
     
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  29. UCF FINatic

    UCF FINatic The Miami Dolphins select

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    He has so much he needs to work on, I really don't understand why he came out. His numbers this year weren't even that great. A real head scratcher for sure.

    What do you think late 1st early 2nd?
     
  30. UCF FINatic

    UCF FINatic The Miami Dolphins select

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    WOW. In Landry's last 4 games he has thrown 1 Touchdown and 6 Interceptions...
     
  31. Laces Out

    Laces Out Well-Known Member

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    Why is he declaring then? I am willing to wager that he is a 3rd round guy.
     
  32. BigDogsHunt

    BigDogsHunt Enough talk...prove it!

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    December 31st

    Meineke Car Care Bowl; Houston; Noon PM ET; ESPN Texas A&M (6-6) vs. Northwestern (6-6)

    There are certain basic rules that should apply to bowls. Bowl names should not have multiple words! Bowls should be named after fruits, or flowers, not automobile companies! Bowls should not be between 6-6 teams. And the Meineke Car Care Bowl falls way short on just about all the major rules. The one redeeming feature of this game could be an interesting dual between two of the best QBs in college football in Ryan Tannehill (#17, 6-4, 220) of Texas A&M and Northwestern’s QB Dan Persa (#7, 5-11, 210). They also both have pretty interesting stories. It wasn’t all that long ago, for example, that A&M’s Tannehill, was considered to be a solid WR prospect, but switched to QB in the middle of the 2010 with the offense floundering and quickly became one of the top prospects at the position; indeed, Tannehill has a chance to go in the latter part of this year‘s opening round. For his part, Persa was arguably the best player in college football last fall, but he ruptured an Achilles tendon late last season and still isn’t really 100%. Even so, Persa completed 74% of his pass attempts this fall once he got back into the line-up. At barely, 5-11, though, Persa is not considered to be more than a marginal pro prospect. Northwestern does have several other smart, experienced and productive collegiate players who will get some looks from NFL teams this coming April including HB/FB Drake Dunsmore (#9, 6-2, 235), safety Brian Peters (#10, 6-3, 215), CB Jordan Mabin (#26, 5-10, 180), WR Jeremy Ebert (#11, 6-0, 195), and OT Al Netter (#6-5, 310), while DE Vince Browne (#94, 6-5, 265) looks the part of stud DE, although he’s never been all that productive.

    Texas A&M actually came into the season, its last in the Big XII with the Aggies headed to the SEC next fall, with high expectations, but injuries thinned out an a potentially explosive offense. Speedy junior RB Christin Michael, for example, hurt a knee and was lost for the year, while stablemate Cyrus Gray (#32, 5-9, 200) was in and out of the lineup with a shoulder problem, although he was still able to run for over 1,000 yards and 12 scores this fall and figures to be a mid-round at the upcoming draft. The Aggies also have a veteran receiver in WR Jeff Fuller (#8, 6-3, 215), a big target with decent speed, but his grade as slipped because of a series of injuries over his college career. The Aggies also have one of the better cover corner combos in college football this season in Coryell Judie (#5, 5-11, 190), a second-day prospect for 2012, and Terrence Frederick (#7, 5-10, 185), although both have also had wonky shoulders. At the same time, FS Trent Hunter (#1, 5-10, 190) and MLB Garrick Williams (#8, 6-1, 235) are productive players who can run, although they are somewhat undersized to be considered more than late round or free agent prospects. Same for DEs Tony Jerod-Eddie (#83, 6-4, 300) and Jonathan Mathis (#6-2, 285) who could get looks from 3-4 teams.


    Sun Bowl; El Paso; 2 PM ET; CBS Georgia Tech (8-4) vs. Utah (7-5)


    Should be an interesting Sun Bowl with Georgia Tech and its wonky offense dueling Utah. Both teams are very young, though, and this game may have as few draft prospects as any bowl game this year. Indeed, its possible that Georgia Tech won’t even have anyone signed as an undrafted free-agent, although DE Jason Peters (#92, 6-4, 275), OLB Steven Sylvester (#34, 6-2, 240), NT Logan Wells (#96, 6-2, 295) and RB Roddy Jones (#20, 5-9, 205) will at least get second looks. If any player in this year’s Sun Bowl is going to be drafted its likely to be either, or both of Utah OTs Tony Bergstrom (#70, 6-5, 315) and John Cullen (#77, 6-5, 305) who make up one of the better sets of bookend tackles in the country. RT Bergstrom, in particular, is a mid-round prospect for the upcoming draft, while LT Cullenis not as highly regarded, but is more athletic.

    Meanwhile, Utah has a number of potential free-agent types on defense including CB Conroy Black (#9, 6-0, 200) who is one of the fastest players in college football, along with MLB Chaz Walker (#32, 6-0, 225), OLB Matt Martinez (#52, 6-0, 225), and DEs Derrick Shelby (#90, 6-2, 265) and Tevita Finau (#97, 6-4, 285). Also keep an eye on junior DT Star Lotulelei (#92, 6-2, 335) for future reference.


    Liberty Bowl; Memphis; 3:30 PM ET; ABC Cincinnati (9-3) vs. Vanderbilt (6-6)


    For the record, Cincinnati is the only team with more than 8 wins playing on New Year’s eve. And for what it is worth, the Bearcats also have the best potential draft class of any of the teams playing on the 31st. Super quick RB Isaiah Pead (#23, 5-11, 200), the Big East offensive player of the year who figures to be off the board by the end of the second day, is probably Cincinnati’s best prospect, but DT Derek Wolfe (#95, 6-5, 300), who has 19.5 career sacks including 9.5 this year, and active MLB J.K. Schaffer (#37, 6-1, 235), who had over 100 tackles this fall including 3.5 sacks and 3 interceptions, may not be al that far behind. Meanwhile WR D.J. Woods (#3, 5-11, 180), OT Alex Hoffman (#59, 6-6, 300), OG Randy Martinez (#53, 6-possibly QB Zach Collaros 1, 300), DT John Hughes (#40, 6-3, 305), and FS Wes Richardson (#24, 6-0, 200) are later round or free agent candidates. The most interesting story for the Bearcats though is athletic QB Zach Collaros (#12, 6-0, 225) who will start after missing three games with a broken ankle; Collaros isn’t a top prospect in that he isn’t all that tall and lacks prototype arm strength, but has been a playmaker during his UC career.

    Vanderbilt also has a couple of intriguing prospects for the 2012 draft. season for a team coming off a two-win season. CB Casey Hayward (#19, 5-11, 190), for example, is a ball-hawker who picked off 5 passes this fall after leading the SEC with six last fall, although he lacks the top-end speed to rate as an elite prospect. Meanwhile, MLB Chris Marve (#13, 6-0, 240) is a tackling machine with almost 400 career stops, but like Hayward is more likely a mid-round pick. Meanwhile SS Sean Richardson (#21, 6-1, 220), DE Tim Fugger (#42, 6-4, 255), and TE Brandon Barden (#6, 6-5, 250) could figure in the later rounds or as post-draft free agents.


    Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl; San Francisco; 3:30 PM ET; ESPN
    Illinois (6-6) vs. UCLA (6-7)

    With apologies to what we presume are well meaning folks connected with this game, but this may be the worst-named bowl out there. What does it even mean? Kraft is fighting hunger. Kraft wants everyone else to fight hunger. With a bowl game with teams with a combined 12-13 record. If nothing else let's give this one the average fan out there can at least relate to. How about the Kraft Dinner Bowl, or our personal favorite the Kraft Caramel Bowl! And as noted above maybe a couple of better teams would help. In fact, UCLA, which lost its final regular season game 50-0, is the only team in the bowls with a losing record after somehow getting into the conference championship game with Southern California ineligible, while Illinois lost its final 6 games after a promising 6-0 start o the season. If that wasn't bad enough, UCLA may also be the least talented team in the bowls, at least looking a head to the 2012 draft. Indeed, despite making the Pac-12 title game, UCLA did not have one player named to the 1st or 2nd offense or defense all-conference units. And the team's only real draft prospects for 2012 - S Tony Dye - is academically ineligible and won't play this afternoon. Meanwhile UCLA players that could get some free agent consideration include WR Nelson Rosario (#83, 6-4, 220), C Kai Maiava (#51, 6-0, 320), OG Sean Sheller (#72, 6-4, 315) and RB/KR Derrick Coleman (#33, 5-11, 235).

    Illinois at least has some legitimate prospects for the upcoming draft. In fact, junior DE Whitney Mercilus (#85, 6-4, 265), who led the country with 14.5 sacks, is starting to generate some second-day buzz and could ultimately go in the opening round if as expected he does opt to enter this year's draft. Illinois also has a number of seniors with mid-round potential in OT Jeff Allen (#71, 6-5, 315) and WR A.J. Jenkins (#8, 6-0, 180), who caught 84 passes for 1,200 yards this fall, while, CB/SS Tavon Wilson (#3, 6-0, 205) and LB Ian Thomas (#38, 6-0, 240) are later round prospects.


    Chick Fil-A Bowl; Atlanta; 7:30 PM ET; ESPN Virginia (8-4) vs. Auburn (7-5)

    If the Kraft Hunger Fight or whatever isn’t the worst name for a bowl, then the Chick-Fil-A Bowl is. Fortunately, for the chicken fillet folks they have what should be a somewhat better match-up than the Kraft game featuring defending national champion Auburn and a surprising Virginia team. It was back to reality for Auburn this season after last year‘s magical run to the national championship. Of course, repeating was always going to be tough for the Tigers after losing QB Cam Newton, the first player selected at the 2011 NFL draft, and DT Nick Fairley, the 14th pick this past April, among others. Certainly, Auburn isn’t going to have anywhere near the same impact at the upcoming draft. In fact, its possible the Tigers won’t have any one drafted at all, although OTs.A.J. Greene (#77, 6-5, 300) and RT Brandon Mosley (#75, 6-5, 310) should get some late-round consideration, while WR Quindarius Carr (#9, 6-0, 180), FS Neiko Thorpe (#15, 6-1, 185), and MLB Eltoro Freeman (#21, 5-11, 225) are free agent types. Meanwhile, star sophomore RB Michael Dyer (#5, 5-9, 210), who figures to be a prime prospect for the 2013 draft, has been suspended for one of those violations of team rules and apparently won’t play against Virginia.

    Surprising Virginia came within a game of making it to the ACC conference championship game and have some interesting prospects for the upcoming draft. CB Chase Minnifield (#13, 5-11, 185), for example, is considered to be an early second day prospect, but could sneak into the opening round because of the importance of the position. Meanwhile, DE Cam Johnson (#56, 6-4, 270) is a mid-round prospect with the kind of size and athleticism NFL teams look for in a 4-3 DE, although the production hasn’t always been there, while DT Matt Conrath (#94, 6-6, 280) figures to get some later round looks as a 5-tech DE at the next level as may Canadian OG Austin Pasztor (#63, 6-6, 305).
     
  33. Laces Out

    Laces Out Well-Known Member

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    Keep an eye on Kain Coulter. Kid just is a player. He is a small guy, but a proficient passer and an above average runner as he leads the team in rushing. He gets regular snaps in their offense at WR and QB...really makes me wish that Nebraska didn't tell him to pound sand when he wanted to commit.
     
  34. padre31

    padre31 Premium Member Luxury Box

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    Tannehill looks good for A&M, much better then Jones.
     
  35. PhinGeneral

    PhinGeneral PC Texas A&M, Bro Club Member

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    You're talking about a guy that was the #2 QB behind Andrew Luck going into this season, and rated Top 5 overall by both Kiper and McShay (Scouts, Inc.). He's had his issues this year, and probably should have gone back for another year to work the kinks out, but I highly doubt he's anywhere near a 3rd round guy. In fact, depending on where we land and how comfortable we are with Moore for another year, it wouldn't be totally surprising if we took him and sat him for a year to coach him up.
     
  36. djphinfan

    djphinfan Season Ticket Holder Club Member

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    never bought into that kid's game, didn't like the skillset, wasn't buyin him when he was at the apex of his hype..Have seen some recent things that have taken him off my board..
     
  37. BigDogsHunt

    BigDogsHunt Enough talk...prove it!

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    January 2nd

    Ticketcity Bowl; Dallas; Noon PM ET; ESPNU Hosuton (12-1) vs. Penn State (9-3)

    Houston and Penn State kick off the New Year’s Day plus one festivities in a battle between one of the country’s most prolific offenses trying to attack of the nation’s stingiest defenses. It’s also one last chance to check out Houston QB Case Keenum (#7, 6-2, 210) who became the NCAA‘s all-time leading passer earlier in the season. Keenum, who made a successful return from a torn ACL suffered early last year, has put up some off the charts numbers this fall as he has completed over 72% of his passes, including 45 for TDs while losing only five. Keenum, though, still hasn‘t gotten much respect from NFL scouts who consider him to be more a system passer who lacks prototype size and arm strength. Keenum works with an outstanding receiver corps led by WRs Patrick Edwards (#83, 5-9, 175) and Tyron Carrier (#35, 5-8, 170), a pair of track stars who can really fly. For the record, Edwards has over 1,500 receiving yards and 18 scores to date, while Carrier has 87 receptions. The Houston defense isn‘t as good, but has several decent second-tier prospects including MLB Marcus McGraw (#55, 6-0, 225), a tackling machine with almost 500 career stops, including 131 this year, and emerging edge-rushing OLB Sammy Brown (#8, 6-2, 240) who has 12.5 sacks and 28 total tackles for loss this fall. Indeed, what might have been for Houston, one of only two unbeaten teams in the country in the regular schedule, which needed only to win went into the CUSA conference title game to earn a spot in a BCS bowl and the millions that would accrue to the school and the conference. Alas, the Cougars came out very flat against Southern Mississippi and were ultimately blown out in that championship game and had to settle for a date with Penn State in a bowl game most people probably don’t even know is played.

    In many ways, Penn State is just happy to be in a bowl as there was some discussion amid the scandal involving Jerry Sandusky that the school wouldn’t be invited anywhere because of the taint, or would simply decline any invitations that it did receive. But hey there’s money to be made in them thar bowl games! Of course, Joe Paterno, who coached the Nittany Lions for what seemed like forever, won’t be in Dallas as he was abruptly fired for his role in the Sandusky affair, although there is a good chance Paterno would have been forced to stay home anyway as the 84-year-old is reportedly battling cancer. Penn State, in fact, surprised a lot of people when it won nine games so far this year. No surprise, though, that its been the Nittany Lions‘s defense which has led the way. In fact, PSU‘s top prospect for 2012 is rugged DT Devon Still (#71, 6-4, 305), who is starting to get a little top-10 buzz. Meanwhile DE Jack Crawford (#81, 6-4, 265), CBs D‘Anton Lynn (#8, 6-0, 210) and Chaz Powell (#2, 6-0, 205), FS Nick Sukey (#1, 6-0, 210), and SS Drew Astorino (#28, 5-10, 205) are later round of free-agent candidates. Same thing for the offense’s best prospects including WR Derek Moye (#6, 6-4, 205), a solid underneath target, OG Johnnie Troutman (#74, 6-3, 325), FB Joe Suhey (#37, 6-0, 240), and OTs Quinn Barham (#67, 6-3, 305) and Chima Okoli (#52, 6-3, 305).


    Outback Bowl; Tampa; 1 PM ET; ABC Michigan State (10-3) vs. Georgia (10-3)

    Call this the ‘Third Place Bowl’ as both Georgia and Michigan State were losing finalists in their respective conference’s championship games. In fact, Michigan State is still trying to figure out why Michigan, which it beat this year and finished behind MSU in the final Big 10 standings, is in a BCS game while the Spartans have to make do again in a lesser affair. After starting out the season 0-2, though, Georgia is pretty happy just to be still playing on January 2nd. Indeed, it wasn‘t all that long ago that Georgia head coach Mark Richt looked like a goner at Georgia, but a 10-game winning streak put the Dawgs in the SEC final where it came up short against #1 ranked LSU. However, Georgia, which had top 5 picks in two of the past three years, won‘t have quite that impact this coming April, but does have a potentially mid-to-late first rounder in massive OG Cordy Glenn (#71, 6-5, 350), while veteran C Ben Jones (#60, 6-3, 315) and CB Brandon Boykin (#2, 5-9,185) have top 100 potential. Same for junior TE Orson Charles (#7, 6-3, 245) who leads the team in receiving. Meanwhile, P Drew Butler (#13, 6-2, 215) and PK Blair Walsh (#57, 5-10, 195) have been among the best kickers in the country in their careers, although the latter struggled through an inconsistent season this fall. Georgia also has several second-tier prospects including NT De‘Angelo Tyson (#94,6-3, 310), OT Justin Anderson (#79, 6-5, 345) and TE/FBs Bruce Figgins (#89, 6-3, 275) and Aron White (#81. 6-4, 240). The key to the Georgia turnaround, though, was sophomore QB Aaron Murray (#11, 6-1, 210), while junior OLB Jarvis Jones (#29, 6-2, 245), who has 12.5 sacks this year, is the impact player on defense, although he has already indicated he will be back in Athens next fall.

    Michigan State is led by quietly efficient QB Kirk Cousins (#8, 6-2, 205), one of the top senior prospects at the position with the potential to be off the board by the end of the second day this coming April. For the record, Cousins completed 65% of his pass attempts this fall for over 3,000 yards and 24 scores, while tossing only 7 picks. The Spartans’ best prospect, though, is junior DT Jerel Worthy (#99, 6-2, 305), a legitimate opening round candidate who got some top-ten buzz earlier in the fall, although he can be inconsistent at times and has seen his grade fall to more a late first-rounder as a result. Other Spartans to watch include WRs B.J. Cunningham (#3, 6-2, 225), Keith Nicol (#7, 6-2. 225) and Keshawn Martin (#82, 5-0, 185), TEs Brian Linthicum (#88, 6-4, 245) and Garrett Celek (#85, 6-4, 245), OG Joel Foreman (#67, 6-3, 315) and FS Trenton Robinson (#39, 5-10, 195).


    Capital One Bowl; Orlando; 1 PM ET; ESPN Nebraska (10-3) vs. South Carolina (10-2)

    Nebraska made a reasonably successful transition to the Big 10 this fall, winning ten games and earning a bid to the Capital One Bowl, but probably were hoping for more. The Huskers are led by star sophomore QB Taylor Martinez (#3, 6-1, 205), who regained the explosive form he showed in the first half of the 2010 season before injuring an ankle. In terms of the 2012 draft, though, it will the Nebraska defense that pro scouts will be camping out to see. CB Alfonzo Dennard (#15, 5-10, 205), for example, is a mid-first round prospect who many feel is a better pro prospect than former teammate Prince Amukamara whom the Giants took with the 19th pick overall this past April. DT Jared Crick (#94, 6-6, 285), who looks the part of a prototype 5-tech DE, could also sneak into the latter part of the opening, but won’t play after missing most of the season with a pectoral injury. Meanwhile, athletic OLB Lavonte David (#4, 6-1, 224) has later second-day potential, while SS Austin Cassidy (#8, 6-0, 210) has good size , but is still more free-agent type. On the other side of the ball, OTs Yoshi Hardrick (#50, 6-6, 325) and Marcel Jones (#78, 6-6, 315) also both have next-level size and could be sleepers along the offensive front.

    Like Nebraska, South Carolina had bigger things in mind when the season began, but came up just short. That despite the fact that star sophomore RB Marcus Lattimore suffered a season-ending knee injury in mid-season and that oft-suspended QB Stephen Garcia took one misstep too many was given the boot. It wasn’t all that great a year either for junior WR Alshon Jeffrey (#1, 6-4, 233), who entered the year rated as a possible top 5 prospect for the upcoming draft after he caught 88 passes for over 1,500 yards in 2010, but has seen his stock slip as a result of seeing those numbers virtually cut in half this season. In fact, it wouldn’t be a total shock if rising DE Mel Ingram (#6, 6-1, 275) was actually selected ahead of Jeffrey if the latter does enter this year’s draft. Meanwhile, two other SC juniors - CB Stephon Gilmore (#5, 6-0, 195) and DE Devin Taylor (#98, 6-6, 250) – have second-day potential, while OT Rokevious Watkins (#73, 6-3, 345) is a mid-to-late round candidate. At the same time, a number of other USC seniors including LB/SS Antonio Allen (#26, 6-1, 210), OG Terrence Campbell (#60, 6-3, 295), and LB Rodney Paulk (#45, 6-0, 230) should at least get free-agent consideration this coming spring. For good measure, pro scouts will also be watching true freshman DE Jadeveon Clowney (#7, 6-6, 250), arguably the top recruit in the country this year, although he won’t actually be draft eligible until 2014.


    Gator Bowl; Memphis; 1 PM ET; ESPN2 Ohio State (6-6) vs. Florida (6-6)

    They are affectionately calling the Gator Bowl the ‘Urban Meyer Bowl’ as the former Florida head coach will be taking over at Ohio State after the game. They could also have called this one the ‘Pedestrian Bowl’ as bowl teams sputtered to undistinguished 6-6 records that really shouldn’t have anyone playing in a New Year’s Day Bowl. Only in the BCS system! At least pro scouts will have some players to watch, although truth be told neither team is exactly loaded. Ohio State, though, does have a couple of second-day OL candidates in rangy LT Mike Adams (#75, 6-8, 310) and C Michael Brewster (#50, 6-4, 305). Meanwhile, WR DeVier Posey (#9, 6-2, 210) and RB Dan Herron (#1, 5-9, 205) also have close to top 100 potential, while OT J.B. Shugarts (#76, 6-6, 300) is a later-round prospects. Pro scouts will also be watching a couple of Buckeye juniors in ultra-quick DT/DE John Simon (#54, 6-2, 270) and TE Jake Stone burner (#11, 6-4, 245), although the latter is expected, if he plays at all after undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery last month.

    For its part, Florida also has some legitimate world class speed at the skill positions in RB Jeff Demps (#2, 5-8, 185) and WR Chris Rainey (#3, 5-9, 175), both of whom can fly, but neither is likely big enough to be more than slash types at the next level. Meanwhile, DT Jaye Howard (#6, 6-3, 310) has NFL size and athleticism and finally played to his physical potential this fall. Then there is QB Jjohn Brantley (#12, 6-3, 220), the one-time superstar recruit who was expected to be a better pro prospect than legendary former Florida QB Tim Tebow whom he replaced last year, but he has struggled in his tenure as the Gators’ starter.


    Rose Bowl; Pasadena;5 PM ET; ESPN Wisconsin (11-2) vs. Oregon (11-2)

    The
    Rose Bowl features a traditional Pac-12/Big Ten duel, but its not hard to imagine how much more impact the Wisconsin-Oregon match-up would have if the Badgers and Ducks were playing in a national quarterfinal. Just saying. And with nothing more than national pride on the line, this game comes down to two teams with completely contrasting styles. Wisconsin, of course, features a thumping running game with junior RB Montee Ball (#28, 5-10, 225) and sophomore RB James White (#20, 5-10, 205) running behind a typically huge Badgers’ offensive line anchored by C Peter Konz, who returns from injury, and OG Kevin Zeitler (#70, 6-4, 320), while junior LT Ricky Wagner (#58, 6-5, 325) and veteran RT Josh Ogelsby (#67, 6-6, 335) makeup one of the better sets of bookend OTs in the country. Both Konz, if he enters the draft, and Zeitler, in particular look like they have at least early second day potential for the upcoming draft, while RB Ball figures to be a late second-day pick as he lacks explosive speed. And while they prefer to pound it on the ground, Wisconsin can also air it out with QB Russell Wilson (#16, 5-11, 205) running the offense. Wilson who was in the thick of the Heisman debate much of the season has been a very efficient, productive collegiate QB, but isn‘t very tall and lacks elite arm strength and touch so isn‘t a prime draft prospect himself, although he surely get a late round call from someone this coming April. Meanwhile, WR Nick Toon (#1, 6-2, 215), the son of former Badger and NY Jets‘ star WR Al Toon is Wilson‘s go-to target and could also get some top 100 consideration this coming April if his health checks out. At the same time, TE Jake Byrne (#82, 6-4, 255) could be something of a sleeper. The Badgers‘ defense isn‘t as talented, but does have several later round or free-agent candidates in FS Aaron Henry (#7, 6-0, 210), CBs Antonio Fenelus (#26, 5-9, 195), DT Patrick Butrym (#95, 6-3, 285) and DE Louis Nzegwu (#93, 6-3, 245).

    While Wisconsin relies on size and strength, Oregon is simply one of the fastest teams in the country. However, despite a gaudy 10-2 record, Oregon may not have much more of an impact at the 2012 draft than usual as most of the Ducks best players are underclassmen. Junior RB LaMichael James (#21, 5-9, 185), in particular, led the country in rushing with 1,650 yards and a 7.4 yards per carry per pop average. However, James, who figures to get a late second early third round grade heading into the draft, has dropped a few hints in recent days that he really likes playing for the Ducks and just may return for his senior season and a possible shot at a national title. In fact, James is part of what may be the country‘s top RB corps as fellow junior Kenjon Barner (#24, 5-10, 185) and freshman De’Anthony Thompon (#6, 5-10, 175) would start and star on just about any other program in the country. At the same time, junior QB Darron Thomas (#5, 6-3, 215) could very well figure in the Heisman conversation at this time next year, although he's not a true NFL prospect at the position. The offense also has a solid supporting cast including several decent second-tier prospects for the upcoming draft such as TE David Paulson (#42, 6-4, 245), one of the best receivers at the position in the country who figures to get some mid-round consideration, along with OTs Mark Asper (#79, 6-6, 325) and Darrion Weems (#74, 6-5, 300), and WR Lavasier Tunei (#80, 6-4, 215). Meanwhile, junior FS John Boyett (#20, 5-10, 200) is the steadiest player on the defense, while SS Eddie Pleasant (#115-11, 215), OLB Josh Kladdu (#56, 6-3, 230) and DE Terrell Turner (#45, 6-3, 275) are solid later round or free agent candidates. The defense’s best player - and prospect - though is junior CB/KR Cliff Harris (#13, 5-10, 170) who likely will miss the game after being suspended for the second time this year for another series of driving offenses.


    Fiesta Bowl; Glendale; 8 PM ET; ESPN Stanford (11-1) vs. Oklahoma State (11-1)

    Like the Rose Bowl, the Fiesta match-up between Stanford and Oklahoma State would mean so much more as a national quarterfinal. Instead, we'll have to make do with what should be a most entertaining shootout between Stanford junior QB Andrew Luck (#12, 6-4, 235) and OSU‘s Brandon Weeden (#3, 6-4, 215). Luck the presumptive favorite to be the first player selected at the upcoming draft threw for 3,200 yards this fall as he completed 70% of his pass attempts, including 35 for TDs versus 9 picks. Weeden actually put up even better numbers this fall as he threw for over 4,300 yards, completed almost 735 of his passes and had 34 scoring strikes against 12 interceptions. However, while Luck is almost a lock to be the #1 pick this spring, Weeden will likely ave to wait until the second-day at least to get a call as he is a somewhat older prospect who spent 5 years playing minor league baseball before returning to the gridiron.

    Luck and Weeden , though, are only one of several top teammates who won't be waiting all that long at the 2012 draft. Junior Cardinal offensive linemen OG David DeCastro (#52, 6-5, 310) and junior LT Jonathan Martin (#55, 6-5, 300), for example, could very well be off the board in the first half of the opening round, while the Cardinal also feature one of the nation‘s top receiving TEs in Coby Fleener (#82, 6-5, 245). Same story for Oklahoma State as junior WR Justin Blackmon (#81, 6-1, 215), a potential top 5 prospect this year who had 113 catches for over 1,300 yards and 15 TDs in what was considered a ‘down‘ year for him. Pro scouts will also be checking out a couple of other likely second-day picks with the unbeaten Cowboys in veteran OT Levy Adcock (#73, 6-5, 325) and FS Markelle Martin (#10, 6-0, 195), while slot receiver Josh Cooper (#25, 5-10, 190), DE Jamie Blatnick (#50, 6-3, 265) and OT Nick Martinez (#75, 305) are later round or free agent type prospects.
     
  38. BigDogsHunt

    BigDogsHunt Enough talk...prove it!

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    Some great games yesterday and lots of Draft Eligible talent really shined......Rose and Fiesta were both fun to watch.
     
    Stitches likes this.
  39. BigDogsHunt

    BigDogsHunt Enough talk...prove it!

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    January 3rd

    Sugar Bowl; New Orleans; 8 PM ET; ESPNU Michigan (10-2) vs. Virginia Tech (10-3)


    Tonight’s Sugar Bowl duel between #6 ranked Arkansas and 8th rated Kansas State … wait that’s the Cotton Bowl later this week which is not a BCS bowl. The Sugar Bowl, which is a bigger paying BCS game has Virginia Tech and Michigan, the 11th and 13th ranked teams in the country. Not that either the Hokies or Wolverines are bad teams, but there several other teams out there much more deserving of being in one of the elite games. But that’s the system and we can only hope that someday it’s tossed in the garbage.Unfortunately, neither team is exactly loaded with top prospects for the 2012 draft. Indeed, its unlikely anyone playing in this year’s Sugar Bowl will be a first round pick this coming April.

    However, Virginia Tech does have a couple of juniors with second-day potential in CB Jayron Hosley (#20, 5-10, 175), a ball-hawker supreme who led the entire NCAA wth nine picks in 2010, although he lacks prototype size and speed, and emerging RB David Wilson (#4, 5-10, 205), who could be a better prospect than former Hokies‘s RB Ryan Williams, the 38th player taken this past spring. Virginia Tech also has a big, physical offensive line anchored by a couple of mid-round prospects in OT Blake DeChristopher (#62, 6-5, 315) and OG Jaymes Brooks (#68, 6-2, 310). Same story for FS Eddie Whitley (#15, 6-1, 190) and big-play WR Danny Coale (#19, 5-11,195), while RB Josh Oglesby (#2, 5-10, 10), who played FB last year, could be something of a sleeper. At the same time, junior ILB Bruce Taylor (#51, 6-2, 255) is a full-sized tackling machine with mid-round potential if he surprises people and opts to enter this year‘s draft. The key to the Hokies fortunes, though, will be rangy sophomore QB Logan Thomas (#3, 6-5, 245) a future pick worth keeping an eye on.

    The draft pickings likely will be even leaner at Michigan as the Wolverines may still be a year or two away from having a big impact early at the draft. C David Molk (#50, 6-2, 290), DT Mike Martin (#68, 6-1, 300), DE Ryan Van Bergen (#53, 6-5, 285), and TE Kevin Koger (#86, 6-4, 255), though, do have mid-to-late round potential for 2012, while OT Mark Huyge (#72, 6-5, 310), WR Junior Hemmingway (#21, 6-1, 225) and oft-injured CB Troy Woolfolk (#29, 6-0, 190) could attract some free-agent consideration. The key Wolverine, though, is star junior QB Denard Robinson (#16, 5-11, 195), who ran for over 2,800 yards over the past two seasons last fall, while passing for another 4,700 yards. Robinson, in fact, has reportedly asked for an evaluation from the NFL‘s special draft advisory board, but likely will have to find a different position to succeed at the next level as he lacks the size and arm strength to rate as anything more than a marginal prospect as a pro passer.
     
  40. texanphinatic

    texanphinatic Senior Member

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    Holy crap Blackmon is outstanding. I have never seen him getting outside the top 5 (probably 3) but damn if he does he would be a helluva pick.
     
    bakedmatt likes this.

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