2022 NFLPA Collegiate Bowl Watch: Week 9 Preview

Watch NFLPA Collegiate Bowl director of college scouting Dane Vandernat discuss some of the marquee matchups for college football in Week nine, along with some prospects that the NFLPA Bowl will be keeping tabs on, as he joined Lorenz Leinweber during ‘The State of Football’ show on Sports Illustrated.

 

Below are some of the highly contested games that NFL scouts will be sure to pay close attention to this weekend:

 

Featured Game: #6 Michigan at #8 Michigan State, Saturday, October 30th, 12:00 pm

What a matchup as the battle of Michigan is kicking off at noon with playoff implications on the line. The Spartans are looking to get their prolific offense back on track after a struggle against Indiana. The key to that happening will be the right side of their offensive line around veteran players AJ Arcuri and Kevin Jarvis. On the other side, the Wolverines have one of the best defensive lines in the country around future first-round pick Aidan Hutchinson, Donovan Jeter and Jordan Whittley. Both teams are unbeaten for a reason and the trenches may decide this exciting matchup.

 

Featured Game: Texas at #16 Baylor, Saturday, Saturday, October 30th, 12:00 pm

Staying with the theme of in-state battles, the Baylor Bears must be one of the surprises of the season. A huge part of their 6-1 record has been workhorse running back Abram Smith who started four games at linebacker at the end of last season, leading the team in tackles over that span. Through the air, matchups between Baylor receivers Tyquan Thornton and RJ Sneed against Texas defensive backs Josh Thompson and D’Shawn Jamison will be scrutinized by scouts around the country.

 

Featured Game: Duke at #13 Wake Forest, Saturday, October 30th, 4:00 pm

Coming fresh off a 70 point scoring day against Army, the Demon Deacons offense will try to stay hot against a Duke defense led by feisty cornerbacks Leonard Johnson and Joshua Blackwell. Top target Jaquarii Roberson will have his work cut out against those two. In the trenches, the battle between Jack Wohlabaugh for Duke and Miles Fox for Wake Forest is shaping up to be a good one.

 

Featured Game: #19 SMU at Houston, Saturday, October 30th, 7:00 pm

The SMU Mustangs rode their explosive offense to their 7-0 record. A 6-1 Houston team is their biggest test to date and will show how good they really are. The Cougars have star cornerback Damarion Williams to try and limit receivers Danny Gray and Reggie Roberson while defensive lineman Logan Hall has to bring pressure and force quick throws early and often.

 

*For more insight on the 2022 NFLPA Collegiate Bowl process, including players who have caught our attention, be sure to tune in to ‘The State of Football’ every Thursday at 9:00 am eastern time, as executive director Dane Vandernat joins Lorenz Leinweber on Sports Illustrated!

 

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2022 NFLPA Collegiate Bowl Week Eight Watch List Report

Each week, the scouting department at the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl will provide insight into some of the top prospect performances from around the nation! Be sure to keep up with our latest game announcements on Twitter @NFLPABowl.

 

The Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns have had a tremendous rushing attack for the past two seasons and a big part of that has been their offensive line. Senior right tackle Max Mitchell has been opening up rushing lanes, while protecting the blind side of left-handed quarterback Levi Lewis at a high level. With impressive size at 6-foot-6, 300-pound frame, as well as 34-inch arms, he checks a lot of boxes for NFL teams.

Mitchell is an exceptional athlete, possessing the foot speed and agility to mirror pass rushers at a high level. During their 28-27 victory over Arkansas State, the Ragin’ Cajuns rushed for 424 yards on 53 attempts behind their star right tackle. Mitchell was also named to the Joe Moore Award Midseason Honor Roll last week.

In an exciting Mountain West showdown between Nevada and Fresno State, it was the Bulldogs who could squeeze out a 34-32 victory. The most impressive player on the field, however, was wide receiver Romeo Doubs for the Wolf Pack. The senior wideout caught nineteen passes for 203 yards and a touchdown, serving as Carson Strong’s go-to target. On the two-point conversion to tie the game, Doubs did end up getting pushed out of bounds before he could get his feet in bounds.

“He’s just such an amazing competitor,” Nevada Head Coach Jay Norvell said after the game. “He’s so confident now that he can make plays in any situation against any kind of coverage and Carson (Strong) just has so much confidence in him.” Doubs combines size and speed to be a deep threat with his hands and consistency improved in 2021, providing him great potential in an NFL offense.

After three consecutive losses to start Big12 conference play, the West Virginia Mountaineers finally got their first win over TCU. The Horned Frog offense was held to zero points in the second half behind a great performance from defensive lineman Dante Stills, who recorded a sack and multiple tackles for loss. The brother of 2020 First-Team All American Darius Stills (Las Vegas Raiders) is a West Virginia native who does not care about filling up the stat sheet.

“I’m just helping the team out, that’s all I want to do,” was Stills’ answer when he was asked about being double-teamed frequently, adding: “My job is really just to be disruptive,” safe to say he was and against TCU it even showed up on the stat sheet.

*For more insight on the 2022 NFLPA Collegiate Bowl process, including players who have caught our attention, be sure to tune in to ‘The State of Football’ every Thursday at 9:00am eastern time, as executive director Dane Vandernat joins Lorenz Leinweber on Sports Illustrated!

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2022 NFLPA Collegiate Bowl Watch: Week 8 Preview

Watch NFLPA Collegiate Bowl director of college scouting Dane Vandernat discuss some of the marquee matchups for college football in Week eight, along with some prospects that the NFLPA Bowl will be keeping tabs on, as he joined Lorenz Leinweber during ‘The State of Football’ show on Sports Illustrated.

 

Below are some of the highly contested games that NFL scouts will be sure to pay close attention to this weekend:

 

Featured Game: SMU at #21 Tulane, Thursday, October 21st, 7:30 pm

SMU comes into this Thursday night showdown with one of the best offenses in the country. Wide receiver Reggie Roberson and tight end Grant Calcaterra have helped them put up 40.7 points per game. Tulane will rely on star-wideout Duece Watts to put up points on their own as they start a tough two-week stretch, with Cincinnati next on their schedule.

 

Featured Game: Illinois at #7 Penn State, Saturday, October 23rd, 12:00 pm

Illini left tackle Vederian Lowe faces one of the biggest tests of his career, going up against a loaded Penn State defense. The veteran offensive lineman possesses the size and length desired by NFL teams and can boost his draft stock if he can hold up against the likes of Arnold Ebiketie. Linebackers Brandon Smith and Jesse Luketa lead a Nittany Lions defense that has only given up 13.8 points per game.

 

Featured Game: #8 Oklahoma State at Iowa State, Saturday, October 23rd, 3:30 pm

Jaylen Warren, who has established himself as one of the best runners in the nation this season, will have his work cut out for him against a gritty Cyclones defense that features linebacker Mike Rose and safety Greg Eisworth. If Iowa State can shut down the run game and get the ball to tight ends Charlie Kolar and Chase Allen early and often they could well hand Oklahoma State their first loss of the season.

 

Featured Game: Tennessee at #4 Alabama, Saturday, October 23rd, 7:00 pm

Nick Saban and company are back in the top four like they never left but they should not underestimate a good Tennessee team. Cornerback Alontae Taylor possesses outstanding play recognition and mental alertness which he will put to good use trying to stop Alabama’s passing attack. Perhaps the Tide will have to rely even more on Brian Robinson to win the game on the ground.

 

*For more insight on the 2022 NFLPA Collegiate Bowl process, including players who have caught our attention, be sure to tune in to ‘The State of Football’ every Thursday at 9:00 am eastern time, as executive director Dane Vandernat joins Ric Serritella on Sports Illustrated!  

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2022 NFLPA Collegiate Bowl Week Seven Watch List Report   

Each week, the scouting department at the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl will provide insight into some of the top prospect performances from around the nation! Be sure to keep up with our latest game announcements on Twitter @NFLPABowl.

 

South Alabama super senior quarterback Jake Bentley is as well-traveled and experienced as they come. The Alaskan has thrown for nearly 10,000 career passing yards during his collegiate career, making pit stops at Utah and South Carolina before settling in at Mobile. While his journey has been far from ideal, the former five-star recruit has caught fire of late, reminding NFL scouts why he was once considered a heralded prospect. Bentley threw for 389 passing yards, on his way to becoming the first player in South Alabama history to account for five touchdowns in a game, rushing for two and passing for three more, as the Jaguars defeated Georgia Southern this past week.

“It just felt free,” Bentley said afterward. “The game plan going in was to be aggressive. We consistently did that all night, up-front, on the perimeter, we just really attacked all night. It felt really good as an offense, to really get rolling and put up some points.” Despite an up and down career, Bentley brings a wealth of knowledge, has played in an array of offenses, and possesses leadership intangibles—he was named a team captain at South Carolina and Utah. There could be some interest after the draft by NFL teams to bring Bentley in for a look and see if they can tap into some of his alluring potential.

 

 

Memphis senior wide receiver Calvin Austin III has been a scoring machine for the Tigers, registering 19 touchdowns in his past 18 games, including a 69-yard pitch which he raced into the end zone during their win over Navy last week. For Austin III, it was his fourth touchdown of 60-yards or more this season. “I was joking with my teammates all week that I’ve been needing to get my rushing stats up,” Austin said after the game.

The elusive dynamo ran track and field earlier in his collegiate career and it shows, as the speedster has demonstrated the ability to go from 60-to-100 real quick. His cutback ability makes him extremely slippery in open space and Memphis has garnered a reputation for producing next-level playmakers. On the season, Austin III now has 857 receiving yards and nine touchdowns through five games. If he continues to produce at this rate, the hometown hero (Memphis native) could expect to take his talents to Sunday afternoons.

 

 

Ohio State defensive tackle Garrett Haskell is no stranger to adversity. Having been shot nearly one year ago while attempting to break up a fight in Columbus, Haskell survived a bullet that went straight through his cheek. Since the incident, the Buckeyes coaching staff has noticed a renowned maturity. “I think you’re seeing the best version of Haskell,” Ohio State coach Ryan Day said.

“Everybody here is very proud of what he’s overcome. Not just the way he’s playing, but the way he’s handling himself, the way he’s leading, the way he’s practicing.  “He went through a tough time. But in life, sometimes you have these moments, and it kind of shakes things up and makes you realize some things and maybe that’s what happened with Haskell. Ever since that happened, he’s got a different look in his eye, and I’m really happy that he’s able to take a negative and turn it into a positive.”

Haskell has provided Ohio State with an interior pass-rush this season, constantly disrupting the backfield and creating pressure up the middle. He is known to have a very high football IQ and is very active in team meetings, oftentimes mentoring underclassmen. His story is one of an underdog who has overcome all obstacles. Do not count out Haskell, as he is poised to continue his playing career after college.

 

 

*For more insight on the 2022 NFLPA Collegiate Bowl process, including players who have caught our attention, be sure to tune in to ‘The State of Football’ every Thursday at 9:00am eastern time, as executive director Dane Vandernat joins Ric Serritella on Sports Illustrated!

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2022 NFLPA Collegiate Bowl Watch: Week 7 Preview

Watch NFLPA Collegiate Bowl director of college scouting Dane Vandernat discuss some of the marquee matchups for college football in Week seven, along with some prospects that the NFLPA Bowl will be keeping tabs on, as he joined Lorenz Leinweber during ‘The State of Football’ show on Sports Illustrated.

 

Below are some of the highly contested games that NFL scouts will be sure to pay close attention to this weekend:

 

Featured Game: California at #9 Oregon, Friday, October 15th, 10:30 pm

On Friday night, the Ducks will be looking to get back on track after their loss to Stanford and the subsequent bye week. Quarterback Anthony Brown and the rest of the team will be without CJ Verdell who is out for the season. This gives Travis Dye a chance to step in at running back against a California defense that features the likes of Kuony Deng and Cameron Goode at the second level.

 

Featured Game: #10 Michigan State at Indiana, Saturday, October 16th, 12:00 pm

Both teams have taken different paths than what was expected of them before the season. Michigan State and head coach Mel Tucker are looking to stay unbeaten against an Indiana defense, which is loaded with talents such as linebacker Micah McFadden and defensive back Jalyn Williams. Michigan State has one of the most experienced offensive lines in the nation including tackle Anthony Arcuri and center Matthew Allen.


 

Featured Game: #13 Ole Miss at Tennessee, Saturday, October 16th, 7:30 pm

Head coach Lane Kiffin has his Ole Miss offense rolling through six weeks with a Heisman Trophy candidate at quarterback. The attention in this matchup will go to Volunteers cornerback Alontae Taylor who is facing a tough matchup against physical wideout Dontario Drummond.

 

Featured Game: #18 Arizona State at Utah, Saturday, October 16th, 10:00 pm

In this Pac12 after-dark matchup, the Sun Devils travel to Salt Lake City where they will face a tough Utah team led by linebacker Devin Lloyd. Arizona State is loaded from top to bottom with running back Rachaad White and tackle Kellen Diesch being some of the best at their position in college football. On defense, they feature the cornerback duo of Jack Jones and Chase Lucas who will once again try to get their hands on the football.

 

*For more insight on the 2022 NFLPA Collegiate Bowl process, including players who have caught our attention, be sure to tune in to ‘The State of Football’ every Thursday at 9:00 am eastern time, as executive director Dane Vandernat joins Ric Serritella on Sports Illustrated!

 

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2022 NFLPA Collegiate Bowl Week Six Watch List Report

Each week, the scouting department at the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl will provide insight into some of the top prospect performances from around the nation! Be sure to keep up with our latest game announcements on Twitter @NFLPABowl.

 

After their first loss of the season, all eyes will be on Oregon quarterback Anthony Brown to see how he reacts to his first bout of adversity since taking the helm for the Ducks. Up until the overtime loss against Stanford, where he threw his first interception of the season, Brown has played relatively mistake-free football. In fact, the Ducks have committed the second-fewest turnovers all season (two) and the coaching staff appreciates his ability to make quick decisions.

“He’s had some really good moments, some other moments where we need to improve upon…he certainly gives us the best chance to win,” said Oregon head coach Mario Cristobal.”He’s done enough in practice, he’s done enough in games.”

In 25 career games played between his time at Boston College and Oregon, Brown has accounted for 62 total touchdowns. A bounce-back game and steady play for the remainder of the season will be critical to Brown keeping his name relevant amongst NFL scouts. He has played a lot of big-time football, so his experience and dual-threat capability could generate some interest at the next level.

 

Coastal Carolina tight end Isaiah Likely had a record-setting night during the Chanticleers win over Arkansas State. The senior standout hauled in eight catches for a career-high 232 receiving yards and four touchdowns, the first tight end in Sun Belt Conference history to accomplish such a feat and also a CCU single-game record. Likely possesses a tremendous blend of speed, power, athleticism, and physicality to his style of play.

“We’ve shared that we think he’s obviously the best in the country, and I’ve not seen every tight end so that’s maybe an unfair statement,” CCU coach Jamey Chadwell said. “But I mean eight catches for 230-something yards and four touchdowns and truth be told I probably could have thrown it to him five or six more times and he probably would have had 400 yards.”

Through six games, Likely now has 517 receiving yards and eight touchdowns, while averaging 19 yards per catch. His usage at multiple positions on the field should only increase his draft stock in the eyes of NFL scouts. The Massachusetts native has lined up at tight end, h-back, in the slot, outside, and could even be used at fullback if needed. Look for Likely to hear his name called come April.

Lost in the mix during the magical Cincinnati carpet ride season has been the dominant play of senior linebacker Darrian Beavers, who flashes tremendous athleticism and a high motor. Beavers continued his stout play this past week with six tackles, including one sack, one forced fumble, and a pass breakup during their win over Temple. For NFL scouts in attendance, they saw firsthand his ability to chase down backs, make plays in space, and get after the quarterback.

“Sometimes you get that guy that is in his fifth year and they think, ‘This is who I am and this is what I do,'” Cincinnati head coach Luke Fickell said. “And the great thing about Darrian is he’s kind of accepted all the different things we’re asking him to do, realizing that if he can continue to grow in what he’s doing, he’s got a real future in the game of football.” A transfer from UConn, where he played defensive end, linebacker and safety, Beavers possesses intriguing versatility. He will likely be viewed as a SAM or WILL backer at the next level.

 

*For more insight on the 2022 NFLPA Collegiate Bowl process, including players who have caught our attention, be sure to tune in to ‘The State of Football’ every Thursday at 9:00am eastern time, as executive director Dane Vandernat joins Ric Serritella on Sports Illustrated!    

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2022 NFLPA Collegiate Bowl Watch: Week 6 Preview

Watch NFLPA Collegiate Bowl director of college scouting Dane Vandernat discuss some of the marquee matchups for college football in Week Six, along with some prospects that the NFLPA Bowl will be keeping tabs on, as he joined Ric Serritella during ‘The State of Football’ show on Sports Illustrated.

 

Below are some of the highly contested games that NFL scouts will be sure to pay close attention to this weekend:

 

Featured Game: Stanford at #22 Arizona State, Friday, October 8th, 10:30pm

After their upset win over Oregon, the Cardinal will want to continue playing sound and stingy defense. That all starts on the defensive line with Thomas Booker and Dalyn Wade-Perry with linebacker Jordan Fox roaming behind them. To combat this, the Sun Devils have talented blocker Kellen Diesch who will be looking to open lanes for Rachaad White.

 

Featured Game: #4 Penn State at #3 Iowa, Saturday, October 9th, 4:00pm

The game of the week will see two great Big 10 programs face off at Kinnick Stadium. It will be interesting to watch the matchup between ball-hawking cornerback Riley Moss who will get his dose of star wideout Jahan Dotson who has continued to be a dynamic playmaker. The winner of this matchup will play a big part in the outcome of what is expected to be a close game.

 

Featured Game: #6 Oklahoma vs #21 Texas, October 9th, 12:00pm

Like almost every year, the ‘Red River Rivalry’ is expected to be a nailbiter between two evenly matched programs. Oklahoma wideout Michael Woods and tight end Brayden Willis will be lined up against Texas defensive back Joshua Thompson and nickel D’Shawn Jamison. On the ground, the Sooners will try to get Kennedy Brooks going as linebacker DeMarvion Overshown looks to stop him.

 

Featured Game: #13 Arkansas at #17 Ole Miss, October 9th, 12:00pm

This one is all about rebounding after tough first losses for both teams last week. Arkansas left tackle Myron Cunningham will get a great test against future NFL rushers Sam Williams and Tariqious Tisdale. The smooth technician will have to show his mean streak and compete to stop them.

 

*For more insight on the 2022 NFLPA Collegiate Bowl process, including players who have caught our attention, be sure to tune in to ‘The State of Football’ every Thursday at 9:00am eastern time, as executive director Dane Vandernat joins Ric Serritella on Sports Illustrated!

 

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2022 NFLPA Collegiate Bowl Week Five Watch List Report

Each week, the scouting department at the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl will provide insight into some of the top prospect performances from around the nation! Be sure to keep up with our latest game announcements on Twitter @NFLPABowl.

 

Cincinnati dual-threat quarterback Desmond Ridder proved why he is considered one of the top senior prospects in the nation, leading the Bearcats to their biggest win in school history over Notre Dame. Ridder did it through the air, delivering two touchdown passes, and then beat the Fighting Irish defense into submission via the ground with a key fourth-quarter touchdown run.

“We didn’t just beat a top-10 team, we beat a top-five program,” Cincinnati coach Luke Fickell said. “That’s the Desmond Ridder factor.” He now has nine passing touchdowns and just two interceptions, to go along with three rushing touchdowns on the season.

One of the most gifted athletic draft-eligible quarterbacks in the Class of 2022, Ridder is expected to test extremely well during the combine and is viewed as an intriguing mid-late round value. Should Cincinnati run the table and make a playoff bid, his stock could continue to rise.

 

Prairie View A&M quarterback Jawon Pass is enjoying a ‘remember me’ type season, guiding the Panthers to their fourth win of the season this past week, accounting for 230 total yards and a pair of touchdowns. The 6-foot-5 signal-caller was pegged the heir apparent to Lamar Jackson during his time at Louisville and it started off well, as he threw for 2,900 yards and 14 touchdowns. However, injuries and inconsistent play led Pass in search of a fresh start at Prarie View A&M. His poise and confidence level are at a noticeable all-time high right now.

“I feel like people know what I’m capable of,” Pass told HBCU Sports. “I just have to show it. I feel like yes, I have something to prove but at the same time, I have to just go out and show it.” For the season, Pass is completing 60% of his passes, throwing for 1,244 passing yards, along with 147 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns through five games. “He’s been a tremendous asset to our program,” said Prairie View head coach Eric Dooley. “He’s fit in with the rest of the guys and been a leader for us.”

The newfound maturity level has been evident and pro scouts have taken notice. “I’ve progressed more mentally,” Pass said. “I have a different overall mindset. At the end of the day, nothing is going to be given to you no matter the situation. I still have the mindset to work hard every day as if I’m trying to be the guy.”

Hawaii do-it-all weapon Calvin Turner flies under the national radar due to his late kickoff times out on the Islands. However, he has been one of the most consistent skill-position players in college football over the past two seasons. His performance during the Rainbow Warriors win over Fresno State was just the latest example. Turner scored as a receiver with four catches and 41 receiving yards. The former high school quarterback next scored as a runner, carrying the ball 14 times for 59 rushing yards out of the wildcat, as their starting quarterback was ruled out just five minutes prior to kickoff.

Turner also serves as the kick, punt returner, and gunner on special teams, making his NFL Draft stock very appealing. Through the first six games of the season, Turner has 727 all-purpose yards, including six rushing touchdowns and two receiving touchdowns. His skill-set could translate into a Curtis Samuel (WFT) type role at the next level.

 

Virginia senior Noah Taylor continues to lead the Cavaliers defense, as he collected at least six tackles for the fifth consecutive game and registered his team-leading third sack against the Hurricanes this past week. A productive three-year starter, Taylor battled through injuries during 2020 in what was a streaky season. His consistent play this year is an excellent indication to NFL scouts that he is fully healthy.

“I knew my ability as a player and I knew what I could’ve done last season and I didn’t do that obviously, what I think because of injury.” Taylor explained earlier this season. “So really just trying to get healthy and put that injury behind me and just focus on getting better because I know what I can do as a football player.”

The quick, long, athletic linebacker now has 27 career tackles for loss in 36 games played. He projects as an ideal SAM backer at the next level due to his read-and-react diagnostic ability, quickness to get after the quarterback, and ability to drop back in coverage. He also demonstrates very active hands (10 pass deflections and three interceptions for his career). With his size, speed and experience, look for Taylor to hear his name called come April.

 

*For more insight on the 2022 NFLPA Collegiate Bowl process, including players who have caught our attention, be sure to tune in to ‘The State of Football’ every Thursday at 9:00am eastern time, as executive director Dane Vandernat joins Ric Serritella on Sports Illustrated! 

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2022 NFLPA Collegiate Bowl Watch: Week 5 Preview

Watch NFLPA Collegiate Bowl director of college scouting Dane Vandernat discuss some of the marquee matchups for college football in Week Five, along with some prospects that the NFLPA Bowl will be keeping tabs on, as he joined Ric Serritella during ‘The State of Football’ show on Sports Illustrated.

 

Below are some of the highly contested games that NFL scouts will be sure to pay close attention to this weekend:

Featured Game: Pittsburgh at Georgia Tech, Saturday, October 2nd, 12:00pm

The 3-1 Panthers start off their ACC schedule with a matchup against the 2-2 Yellow Jackets. This matchup will be a clash between the high-powered Pitt offense against a tough Georgia Tech defense. Led by senior signal-caller Kenny Pickett, the Panthers will look to take advantage of his big arm and push the football downfield. Competing to prevent that is cornerback Tre Swilling who possesses good size and physicality as well as the feisty demeanor required to succeed at the next level.

 

Featured Game: #6 Oklahoma at Kansas State, Saturday, October 2nd, 3:30pm

Despite going into the year as favorites, the Sooners have looked vulnerable to start the season. Trying to orchestrate an upset, Kansas State defensive linemen Timmy Horne and Bronson Massie are facing tough matchups against Oklahoma’s stout offensive line led by mauling guards Marquis Hayes and Tyrese Robinson. Staying in the trenches, the Sooners have two players with an NFL future on the defensive side of the ball as well in Perrion Winfrey and Isaiah Thomas who pair intriguing size with the necessary athleticism to get after the passer.

 

*For more insight on the 2022 NFLPA Collegiate Bowl process, including players who have caught our attention, be sure to tune in to ‘The State of Football’ every Thursday at 9:00am eastern time, as executive director Dane Vandernat joins Ric Serritella on Sports Illustrated!

 

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2022 NFLPA Collegiate Bowl Week Four Watch List Report

Each week, the scouting department at the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl will provide insight into some of the top prospect performances from around the nation! Be sure to keep up with our latest game announcements on Twitter @NFLPABowl.

 

For the second consecutive week, Fresno State quarterback Jake Haener willed the Bulldogs to a 38-30 comeback victory over UNLV with four touchdown tosses in the second half, on his way to 455 passing yards on the day. The late-game heroics highlighted his pinpoint accurate and calm demeanor, as Haener has proved to be as cool as a cucumber. His ascension as one of the premier signal-callers in college football may be a bit of a surprise to the national media but not inside the Fresno locker room.

“You could see the talent Jake had a year ago but he hadn’t had enough time to work with the guys around him,” Fresno State head coach Kalen DeBoer explained. “We can probably find seven, eight throws from this weekend’s game that he physically could have made a year ago, but it wouldn’t have been successful because he just wouldn’t have been dialed in with his receivers.”

On the season, Haener leads the nation in passing yardage with 1,842, is second in the country with 18 touchdowns, and is completing an impressive 73.1% of his passes. While not heavily on the NFL radar when the season began, Haener is clearly a known commodity within the scouting community.

 

 

It was a coming-out party of sorts for Cory Durden and North Carolina State, as the Wolfpack pulled off one of the biggest wins in program history with an exhilarating double-overtime victory over Clemson. The senior defensive tackle was a disruptive force, showcasing his strength and speed while registering one and a half sacks.

“We know how good we are as a defense, that confidence level is there,” Durden stated after the game. “All week that’s what we’ve been preaching, we’re going to show people that we’re the best defense in the country. It was a great feeling to win the game on defense.”

A highly heralded recruit coming out of high school, Durden made an immediate impact during his time with Florida State, before transferring to NC State for 2021. His ability to provide an interior pass-rush presence and constantly place the quarterback under duress have followed him over from Tallahassee. Durden needs to refine some of the technical aspects of his overall game but his raw athleticism and get-off are unquestioned. His performance against Clemson is evidence.

 

 

Few, if any players are performing at a higher level than Michigan pass-rusher Aidan Hutchinson. The Wolverines senior team captain was back at it again this past week, racking up five tackles, including one sack and several quarterback pressures. While Hutchinson has had success in the past playing with his hand in the dirt, defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald has utilized him more in a stand-up role this season. His versatility should entice every NFL team, as Hutchinson appears poised for the first round with his high level of play.

“Don’t get in his way. When you have great players, you try to put them in positions to succeed, and the expectation is that he plays at the level that he’s playing at,” Macdonald said. “We’ll have wrinkles, and we want to move him around, but we don’t want to overthink it either. We don’t want to get in the way of that, but Aidan’s doing a great job.” After an injury-riddled 2020 campaign, Hutchinson has come out of the gates like a barnstormer, as he now has four and a half sacks and 15 tackles through his first four games.

 

 

The Oklahoma State defense has been stellar thus far this season, thanks largely in part to the consistent play of underappreciated safety Kolby Harvell-Peel, who shows up each week with his lunch bucket in hand. The imposing safety put in a full day of work again in week four, collecting a season-high eight tackles and making a momentum-changing interception before the end of the first half during an upset victory over Kansas State. It was his second big turnover in as many weeks.

“Nothing special that I’m seeing,” Harvell-Peel said after the game. “I’m just trying to do my job. I had a couple of chances where I felt I should have made plays. I’m just trying to capitalize on the chances I do get to get my hands on the ball.” While some wait for those chances, Harvell-Peel creates them with his great instincts and anticipation. Serving as the last line of defense for the Cowboys, there are plenty of more opportunities sure to come. Blessed with great range and size, Harvell-Peel offers NFL appeal due to his ability to cover plenty of ground in pass coverage, while also plugging holes against the run.

 

 

Bryant senior kicker Luke Samperi is one player to keep an eye on. The FCS standout kicker was flawless once again during the Bulldogs’ win over Marist, nailing two field goals, including a 41-yarder and converting all four of his extra point attempts. A former soccer player, Samperi switched over to football during his senior season of high school and continues to get better each year. In fact, he has hit multiple game-winning field goals during his time at Bryant. While Samperi experienced some struggles early on during his collegiate career, he has since strengthened his leg and improved his overall accuracy. In addition, Samperi has developed into a dependable touchback machine on kickoffs. It would not be surprising to see him compete for a spot at the next level with his newfound consistency and boot.

 

 

*For more insight on the 2022 NFLPA Collegiate Bowl process, including players who have caught our attention, be sure to tune in to ‘The State of Football’ every Thursday at 9:00am eastern time, as executive director Dane Vandernat joins Ric Serritella on Sports Illustrated!   

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