Keep an eye on these players!
Here are the top NFL Draft prospects to keep an eye on this weekend! All listed kickoff times are Eastern.
Jack Sawyer, Edge Defender, Ohio State v. Indiana (12 PM on Fox)
Ohio State still has a clear path to the College Football Playoff but they need to hand Indiana their first loss of the season to get there. The Hoosiers have a lot of firepower on offense and slowing down that unit will be key for Ohio State to win the day. Jack Sawyer has been a force on the Buckeyes defensive line this year and will need to keep the pressure on Indiana’s passing game for four quarters.
Kyle Monangai, Running Back, Rutgers v. Illinois (12 PM on Peacock)
Kyle Monangai (younger brother of former Eagles running back Kevin Monangai) is on his second straight thousand yard rushing season for the Scarlet Knights. He is a tough, powerful and patient runner and Rutgers’ offense runs through him. If they want to beat a talented Illinois team, Monangai will need to make some big plays.
Jakob Robinson, Cornerback, BYU v. Arizona State (3:30 PM on ESPN)
The Cougars were handed their first loss last week and need to get back on track to keep their playoff hopes alive. Unfortunately, they have a tough opponent in the Arizona State Sun Devils. Jakob Robinson is a long-tenured member of the BYU secondary whose savvy and ball skills make him a dependable presence. He will need to slow down ASU’s explosive passing game to help BYU get back in the win column.
Xavier Watts, Safety, Notre Dame v. Army (7 PM on NBC)
Arguably the highest profile game of the weekend is Notre Dame’s showdown with an unbeaten Army team. The Black Knights field a deadly rushing attack, spearheaded by quarterback Bryson Daily who has 21 rushing touchdowns on the year. Army’s option-heavy offense will put unique pressure on an excellent Notre Dame defense. Xavier Watts is having another great season for the Fighting Irish and will need to play a complete game against Army. Not only will Watts need to come up against their running game, he will need to stay disciplined if they decide to test Notre Dame deep down the field.
Billy Bowman, Safety, Oklahoma v. Alabama (7:30 PM on ESPN)
This season has hardly been ideal for the Sooners, but the team is not without talent. Billy Bowman has been excellent at safety for Oklahoma and strong play from him will be needed in their game against Alabama. Alabama’s offense has weapons abound in the passing and running game. Billy Bowman will need to make some signature big plays to keep Oklahoma in this game.
