Week 3 of the college football season features the sort of cross-conference matchups that make fans of the sport swoon. These unfamiliar opponents will be a great test for the college stars and NFL Draft hopefuls. Here are some prospects to watch this weekend.
All listed times are Eastern.
Ricardo Hallman, Cornerback, Wisconsin v. Alabama (12 PM on Fox): Ricardo Hallman was one of the most prolific ballhawks in the country last year, picking off seven passes and returning one for a touchdown. The fourth year defender is the top defender in Wisconsin’s secondary and arguably the best player on their defense. Alabama’s passing game will be a real challenged for the undersized cornerback. The Crimson Tide has serious speed at receiver and a quarterback who can hit every level of the field. A Wisconsin win feels unlikely, but Hallman can make things hard on Bama with a big game.
Luther Burden III, Wide Receiver, Missouri v. Boston College (12:45 PM on SEC Network): Luther Burden III has been talked up all summer as a potential WR1 in the 2025 class. The 5’11”, 210 pound receiver is built like a running back and he plays like one too when he has the ball. He is elusive and powerful as a runner, but has the hands and route running ability to be a reliable receiver. Burden has dealt with injuries to start the year, and the hope is he will be at full strength against Boston College. The Golden Eagles are no soft match for Burden and the Tigers. He has a great chance to have a coming out party while keeping Mizzou unbeaten.
Deone Walker, Defensive Tackle, Kentucky v. Georgia (7:30 PM on ABC): Kentucky defender Deone Walker is one of the coolest prospects in the country, for my money. He stands tall at 6’6” and weighs over 340 pounds. He is a massive defender and still has incredible athleticism to pair with his power. Walker had 7.5 sacks last year and could be one of the top defenders in the draft in a few months. Kentucky needs a big game from Walker going up against Georgia and their outstanding offensive line. Any hope the Wildcats have is on the shoulders of their giant lineman.
