With a full slate of college football over the next few days, here are the top NFL Draft prospects I am keeping a close eye on. All listed times are Eastern.
Benjamin Morrison, Cornerback, Notre Dame v. Navy (12 PM on ABC): This week’s showdown between Notre Dame and Navy is the highest profile game between these two programs in a long, long time. Navy is undefeated, ranked, and features one of the most explosive offenses in the country. Quarterback Blake Horvath is one of the few players in the country with 10 touchdowns passing and rushing while he averages over 12 yards per passing attempt. The Navy offense is dangerous and will challenge Notre Dame at every level. Benjamin Morrison is an elite player on the perimeter of the Irish defense who will need to play some disciplined run defense, but also has to be on the alert for the deep shot.
Derrick Harmon, Defensive Lineman, Oregon v. Illinois (3:30 PM on CBS): Oregon’s offense has been making headlines as the Ducks have vaulted to the top ranked spot in the country, but they got some NFL players on defense as well. Derrick Harmon is plugging up the middle of Oregon’s defensive line. The former Michigan State defender has been awesome this year and will need to hold it down against a scrappy and multi-dimensional Illinois offense.
Luther Burden III, Wide Receiver, Missouri v. Alabama (3:30 PM on ABC): Luther Burden III has seen plenty of targets over the last few weeks, but hasn’t quite delivered the explosive plays Missouri needs from him. With the rest of the offense banged up in this must-win game against Alabama, Luther Burden III needs to step up in a big way. It will be a Herculean toast for him to carry the Tigers to a win, but he has the talent to do so.
Eli Stowers, Tight End, Vanderbilt v. Texas (4:15 PM on SECN): The Diego Pavia/Eli Stowers connection has helped carry Vanderbilt to their 5-2 start. The big bodied, athletic pass catcher is a mismatch for Vanderbilt to use on offense. If the Commodores want to upset Texas, they’ll need a big game from their offensive weapon.
Abdul Carter, Edge Defender, Penn State v. Wisconsin (7:30 PM ON NBC): Abdul Carter is having an impressive season for the Nittany Lions. His talent is off the charts and he is taking over games coming off the edge. Wisconsin has been really solid this year and will test this Penn State team. Another big game from Carter will keep Penn State in the playoff race.
