Arkansas linebacker Grant Morgan (AP Photo/Michael Woods)

Each week, the scouting department at the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl will examine some of the top performances in college football by potential pro prospects that we are keeping an eye on. Also, be sure to monitor the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl Big Board for new player additions throughout the season!  

Kylen Granson, TE, SMU
One player who has emerged as a pass-catching threat for SMU, is tight end/h-back prospect Kylen Granson. He made several key grabs during the Mustangs thrilling OT win over Tulane this past weekend, showing off his athleticism and run-after-catch abilities. With big play wide out Reggie Roberson Jr. expected to miss the rest of the season, Granson will have plenty of opportunity to grab the attention of the NFL scouting community. While he’s considered to be somewhat of a “tweener,” he can also be viewed as a luxury piece type of weapon at the next level — Granson can line up inline, in the slot, outside, or in the backfield to allow an offense to get very creative in their alignments.

SMU TE Kyle Granson is as talented as any pass catching TE in CFB. Sharp routes, strong hands, vertical speed. Hope he’s on @seniorbowl radar!

Huge 2019 w/ 43 catches for 721yds & 9 TDs. His OC Rhett Lashlee is now at Miami. Look for him to put Brevin Jordan in these spots! pic.twitter.com/Z2inZYbrLL

— Ben Fennell (@BenFennell_NFL) July 8, 2020

Jaelon Darden, WR, North Texas
You often hear wide receivers complain that they’re always open; for North Texas senior wide out Jaelon Darden, it really seems to be the case. The Houston native recorded his second consecutive 200-yard receiving game, pushing his season total to 689 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns through five games, while becoming the second leading receiver in Mean Green history. A projected slot prospect at the next level, the one-time track standout is expected to run in the 4.4-range and possesses high football intelligence, with a strong understanding of how to read opposing defenses, per his coaches.
The Houston native has endured plenty of perseverance, having played quarterback at two different high schools, sitting out most of his senior season due to transferring and committing to three different universities before finding a home at North Texas. His work ethic and drive has rubbed off on the team; according to coaches, you can often find him after practice running routes by himself in a constant effort to improve. That dedication has paid off, as he is squarely on the NFL radar.

BANG! North Texas hits this pass from Aune to Jaelon Darden down to the 1!

Then DeAndre Torrey punches it in for the score!

7-7, 6:39 1Q pic.twitter.com/BsHBfC1I8H

— MeanGreen247 (@MeanGreen247) October 17, 2020

Dahu Green, WR, Arkansas State
The Arkansas State program has been sprouting wide receiver prospects of late. We previously discussed the emergence of Jonathan Adams earlier this season, along with the pro tandem of Omar Bayless (Panthers) and Kirk Merritt (Dolphins) of a year ago. Now, meet the latest wide out to pop onto the NFL radar in Dahu Green. It has been an arduous journey for the Oklahoma transfer who has endured a slew of injuries during the past couple of seasons. In high school, he once ran a 22-second 200 and recorded a 6-7 high jump with Oklahoma coach Lincoln Riley in attendance, a remarkable feat for his size!
Now a sixth-year senior, Green has begun to live up to his potential as one of the bigger, more explosive receivers in this year’s draft class. During the Red Wolves 59-52 victory over Georgia State on prime time, he tallied 172 receiving yards on nine receptions with two scores. Not to be outdone, the aforementioned Adams also set a single-game school record with 15 receptions during this Sun Belt shootout. Keep an eye on this dynamic duo, as they seem primed to move up draft boards.

Hope you didn’t blink, Dahu Green has the Red Wolves back on top pic.twitter.com/OuibcRAB1h

— Sun Belt Pages (@SBPages) October 16, 2020

Tarron Jackson, DE, Coastal Carolina
It has been somewhat of a magical year for undefeated Coastal Carolina (4-0), as it continued to shock the college football world with an upset victory over No. 21 Louisiana. An unsung hero for the Chanticleers defense has been senior defensive end Tarron Jackson, who tallied four tackles, including 1.5 tackles for loss and creating havoc for the opposing quarterback throughout the game, despite often times facing double-team coverage. Jackson plays extremely physical with an extremely high motor, which helps compensate for some of his physical limitations. After a double-digit sack campaign a year ago, the two-time team captain has a pair of sacks on the season and has positioned himself as a potential Day 3 NFL Draft prospect.

Tarron Jackson and The Black Swarm create their first TFL pic.twitter.com/0SRlSPle7A

— Sun Belt Pages (@SBPages) October 15, 2020

Grant Morgan, LB, Arkansas
Arkansas senior linebacker Grant Morgan had himself a day for the ages, recording 19 tackles, including three tackles for loss and one sack, along with two pass deflections and a game-clinching pick-six interception…while basically playing with one arm, as his left arm was in a cast due to injury. The former walk-on, now team captain, is the ultimate competitor and has racked up 52 tackles through the first four games, while emerging as a four-down back. In fact, his experience playing on all four special teams units during the past four seasons (nearly 700 snaps), makes him a candidate to become a special teams ace at the next level. Grant, who recently got married this past summer, also possesses NFL bloodlines, as his older brother, Drew, also played for the Razorbacks and spent two seasons with the Miami Dolphins.

ANOTHER PICK SIX!@RazorbackFB‘s Grant Morgan to the HOUSE. pic.twitter.com/hgqaADeZT9

— SEC Network (@SECNetwork) October 17, 2020

Miami (OH) RedHawks left tackle Tommy Doyle (AP Photo/Tony Tribble)

With the return of several conferences to the 2020 college football scene, we are rolling out an updated NFLPA Collegiate Bowl Big Board featuring players from those schools. Next up, the Mid-American Conference (MAC):

Dustin Crum, Kent State, Quarterback
Throwing 20 touchdown passes in a season is an accomplishment; throwing a 10-to-1 touchdown-to-interception ratio, though, is downright outstanding! Last season for the Flashes, Dustin Crum earned the starting quarterback position and made the most of the opportunity while leading Kent State to a 7-6 record and its first-ever bowl victory. Despite being slighter framed physically, the Grafton, Ohio native is a dual-threat athlete with good toughness and speed who’s capable of racking up yards on the ground as well as through the air. Making good decisions with the football while not forcing throws into coverage were a staple of Crum’s game in 2019 — and are what one might expect from an aerospace engineering major. Season No. 2 as the starter will be an important one for Crum to show that last season wasn’t a fluke and that he deserves consideration in the later rounds of the draft.

Tommy Doyle, Miami (OH), Offensive Tackle
Standing at 6-8 and 315 pounds, it’s difficult to get around RedHawks left tackle Tommy Doyle. With a wide wingspan and impressive feet for a player of his height, the first-team all-MAC performer from a season ago easily guides rushers around the pocket and away from the quarterback. With unusual ability to bend at the knees and sink his hips rather than bend at the waist, Doyle is able to stay in front of defenders and maintain positioning between his target and the ball carrier. With slightly improved play strength and a third upcoming season as a starter under his belt, the Edina, Minnesota native has the opportunity to present his case to NFL talent evaluators as to why he’s one of the top senior tackle prospects in the whole country.

Ali Fayad, Western Michigan, Outside Linebacker
Ali Fayad has been a menace to opposing MAC quarterbacks. With a toolbox full of finesse pass rushing moves, the third-year starter and first-team All-MAC defensive end has amassed an impressive career stat sheet that reads 32.5 TFLs and 16.5 sacks in 38 career games – and he still has his senior season to go! What makes the Dearborn, Michigan product an intriguing prospect for the NFL is that he will be a player changing positions, going from hand-in-the-dirt defensive end to stand-up linebacker. With a knack for being too slippery for blockers to latch onto, there’s no doubt that Fayad possesses the athleticism and short-area quickness to make the transition, but in 2020, he will need to demonstrate a little more consistent urgency getting to the football, particularly when plays go away from him.

2021 NFLPA COLLEGIATE BOWL BIG BOARD: MID-AMERICAN CONFERENCE (MAC)

Boise State tight end John Bates (AP Photo/Steve Conner)

With the return of several conferences to the 2020 college football scene, we are rolling out an updated NFLPA Collegiate Bowl Big Board featuring players from those schools. Next up, the Mountain West:

John Bates, Boise State, Tight End
John Bates caught our scouts’ eye last year while evaluating 2020 Collegiate Bowl participant John Molchon due to Bates’ athleticism and excellent ability to adjust to the flight of the football. A traditional “Y” tight end for the Broncos, the two-time John Mackey Award Watch List member possesses good size at 6-5 and 255 pounds to function as a blocker at the line of scrimmage (LOS) as well as threaten defenses down the middle in the passing game. With smooth athleticism, very good body control and soft hands, Bates – despite only catching 22 passes in 2019 – consistently demonstrated the receiving skill necessary to play in the NFL. With increased play strength and a little more block sustain in 2020, the Lebanon, Oregon product has an opportunity to assert himself as one of the nation’s top true senior tight end prospects.

Jordan Jackson, Air Force Academy, Defensive End
Jordan Jackson is fun to watch. The Jacksonville, Florida native is a versatile defensive lineman who goes 100 mph every snap and is consistently living in the offensive backfield. Prior to this year, Jackson recorded a whopping 17 career tackles for loss and eight sacks – a testament to his initial quickness, instincts, physicality and non-stop motor. In the Falcons’ rivalry games last year versus Navy and Army, Jackson was a monster, recording a season-high eight tackles versus Navy before besting that feat with a nine-tackle performance against Army, while adding a sack in both games. A question remains whether Jackson will participate in 2020 when Air Force opens conference play, but opposing offenses surely are hoping he doesn’t.

Dwayne Johnson, San Diego State, Safety
In his first year as a starter in 2019, Dwayne Johnson established himself as a force to be reckoned with on a very good Aztec defense, accounting for 92 tackles, a forced fumble, two fumble recoveries and five pass breakups. The hard-hitting strong safety type from Murrieta, California is arguably at his best hovering near the LOS where his instincts, physicality and play strength enable him to match up with tight ends on pass routes and especially be a factor in the run game. With near linebacker size at 6-2 and 215 pounds, Johnson is one of the more aggressive safety prospects in the country who consistently demonstrates his willingness to strike climbing blockers and get involved as a tackler. Special teams are where he’ll likely contribute initially on an NFL roster – something he has a plethora of experience doing, dating back to his freshman and sophomore seasons.

2021 NFLPA COLLEGIATE BOWL BIG BOARD: MOUNTAIN WEST

North Carolina running back Michael Carter (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer)

Each week, the scouting department at the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl will examine some of the top performances in college football by potential pro prospects that we are keeping an eye on. Also, be sure to monitor the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl Big Board for new player additions throughout the season!

Kellen Mond, QB, Texas A&M
A four-year starter for Texas A&M, quarterback Kellen Mond finally earned his first signature win over Florida in a back-and-forth affair, which was sure to catch the attention of NFL scouts. Mond showed tremendous poise and moxie, completing 25-of-35 passes for 338 yards and three touchdowns. With his athleticism to extend plays and deep ball touch, the San Antonio native offers plenty of pro traits that will appeal to teams at the next level.

THIS GAME 😮

Kellen Mond drops a 51-yard dime and Florida-Texas A&M is going down to the wire on ESPN! pic.twitter.com/GW0Sj2TSz8

— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) October 10, 2020

Michael Carter, RB, North Carolina
North Carolina senior running back Michael Carter continues to solidify his draft stock, as he set a new career-high with 214 rushing yards and two scores, including a 62-yard scamper in the fourth quarter to help seal the deal in the Tar Heels’ win over Virginia Tech. A noted intense competitor and leader in the locker room, the Florida native has been praised by the coaching staff for his maturity. With the ability to cut it inside/outside, his balance and vision are two of the more desirable traits he possesses. Carter brings the juice and provides a skillset very similar to Dion Lewis (N.Y. Giants). With 413 rushing yards through three games, he is now on pace to become just the third Tar Heel rusher to surpass the 1,000-yard barrier in back-to-back seasons during the past thirty years, joining Giovanni Bernard (2011-12) and Natrone Means (1991-92).

North Carolina’s Michael Carter has wheels.. bye bye 👋

pic.twitter.com/jClZaSRFqw

— the Sports ON Tap (@thesportsontap) October 10, 2020

Marquez Stevenson, WR, Houston
Houston wideout Marquez Stevenson got off to an electrifying start in the Cougars’ season-opening win over Tulane, demonstrating why he is considered to be one of the premier playmakers in college football. Stevenson shredded the Green Wave with a 97-yard kick return and 41-yard receiving touchdown, totaling 223 yards on seven touches. His big play speed, deep ball propensity and crisp route running is sure to be an easy sell to NFL teams.

.@UHCougarFB leads Tulane 42-31 in the fourth quarter. UH scoring includes a 97-yard kickoff return for touchdown by Marquez Stevenson (@Speedster_7) pic.twitter.com/P86GU92fmz

— Mark Berman (@MarkBermanFox26) October 9, 2020

Victor Dimukeje, DE, Duke
Duke earned its first victory of the season over Syracuse behind another stellar performance by senior defensive end Victor Dimukeje, who picked up 1.5 sacks and now has 14 sacks in his past 11 games. The Baltimore native has been playing with a relentless motor this season, demonstrating an array of pass-rush moves and the strength to win most of his one-on-one reps. While Dimukeje has primarily played with his hand in the dirt for the Blue Devils, there is some appeal to having him stand up as an outside linebacker at the next level. He is one player who should continue to thrive and rise as we get closer to the draft.

Highest pass-rush win % against power five OLs last season:

1. Chase Young – 27%
2. Victor Dimukeje – 22%
3. Carlos Basham – 22%
4. Khalid Kareem – 21% pic.twitter.com/2GuREWIZrX

— PFF College (@PFF_College) August 21, 2020

Max Richardson, LB, Boston College
It was senior linebacker Max Richardson guiding the way on defense once again for Boston College, as the Eagles won a thriller in overtime over Pittsburgh. The Georgia native, who had just one other Power 5 offer (Duke) coming out of high school, has solidified himself as a pro prospect during his time in Chestnut Hill, and Saturday was just another example why. Richardson totaled nine tackles (three tackles for loss), including one sack, flashing natural instincts, quickness and his ability to wrap up tacklers in the open field. After 100-plus tackle campaign last season, Richardson now has 38 tackles (third in the nation) during the Eagles 3-1 start, as his clutch play and leadership has played a vital role early on.

⚪ LB Spotlight ⚪

Max Richardson – Boston College

• Richardson has been an absolute monster for BC. In his career he’s totaled 216 Tackles, 24 Tackles for Loss, 6.5 Sacks, 5 Pass Breakups and 2 Forced Fumbles. pic.twitter.com/uw2CsRHcg3

— NCAAF Nation (@NCAAFNation247) August 21, 2020

Michigan defensive lineman Kwity Paye (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)

With the return of several conferences to the 2020 college football scene, we are rolling out an updated NFLPA Collegiate Bowl Big Board featuring players from those schools. Next up, defensive players from the Big Ten:

Kwity Paye, DE, Michigan—
In a close game last October vs. the Iowa Hawkeyes while facing two future NFL offensive tackles, Kwity Paye showed the traits that make him such a highly-rated NFL prospect, recording a career-high 2.5 sacks and an additional two quarterback hurries in the game. Boasting prototypical 4-3 defensive end size at 6-4 and 270 pounds, the Providence, Rhode Island product is a gifted athlete who regularly displays impressive get-off off the snap, an arsenal of pass rushing moves in his toolbox, the capability of bending the edge to flatten to the quarterback, and burst to close on the ball. What’s equally impressive, however, is Paye’s physicality and desire to stop the run, regularly showcasing the play strength to knock-back opposing blockers, strong hands to jolt and shed, and then the dependability to get ball carriers down.

Baron Browning, LB, Ohio State—
Baron Browning is a name to remember. Despite rotating at the middle linebacker position in 2019 with Tuf Borland — another Buckeye linebacker who’s expected to be drafted this year — Browning finished the year fourth on the team in tackles for loss and sixth on the team in total tackles. With a rare blend of size, length, athleticism and explosiveness reminiscent of former Buckeye star Ryan Shazier, Browning is built for the modern NFL defense. Unafraid of contact, the former five-star high school product from Fort Worth, Texas is quick to read and react in the run game, comes out of his hips to strike climbing blockers with his hands, and wraps up ball carriers with his long arms. In the pass game, his speed and range enable him to cover a lot of ground in either zone or man coverage, and he’s a threat to get home to the quarterback as a delayed or add-on blitzer.

Dicaprio Bootle, CB, Nebraska—
Position versatility is key for most NFL players, and Nebraska defensive back Dicaprio Bootle certainly is versatile. Last year for the Huskers, Bootle started the first eight games at cornerback before shifting to safety due to injuries in the secondary. Though possessing below average height for the cornerback position at slightly under 5-10 and 190 pounds, Bootle is competitive in man-to-man coverage while displaying the confidence to remain square in his pedal. The Miami native regularly can be seen communicating with his teammates, pointing out coverage responsibilities, keying targets in zone with great field awareness, and rallying to the ball once it’s been thrown – all attributes that bode well for his chances as a safety as well. The 2020 season will be a valuable opportunity for Bootle to show improved tackling technique and consistency — improvements that will aid him while vying for a backup/special teams role in a NFL training camp next summer.

NFLPA COLLEGIATE BOWL BIG BOARD: BIG TEN DEFENSE

Illinois quarterback Brandon Peters (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio)

With the return of several conferences to the 2020 college football scene, we are rolling out an updated NFLPA Collegiate Bowl Big Board featuring players from those schools. First up, offensive players from the Big Ten:

Brandon Peters, QB, Illinois
Last year, Brandon Peters put up some impressive performances early in the season, but it was the Illini’s upset over No. 6 Wisconsin where the first-year starter had his real coming out party. Against the Badgers, you saw some good – Peters is a physically talented right-handed passer with the ability to drop the ball where only his receiver can make a play; good athleticism and strength for the position to move around the pocket, extend plays with his legs, and even be a threat to keep the ball on zone-read plays. But you also saw some bad – risky throws into coverage, a couple late passes, and loose ball-security in the pocket.
When the game was on the line, however, the graduate transfer from Michigan saved his best for last, displaying some moxie and gun-slinger traits by throwing a fourth-quarter touchdown and later getting his team in position to kick the game-winning field goal as time expired. Two weeks later against Michigan State, Peters was at it again, this time orchestrating the largest comeback in Illinois history with a game-sealing touchdown pass in the final seconds of a 37-34 win. If the now second-year starter can build onto the foundation he established last season, Peters could end up hearing his name called on draft weekend.

Ihmir Smith-Marsette, WR, Iowa
Don’t look now, but the Iowa Hawkeyes have a deep receiving corps led by two talented seniors, including Ihmir Smith-Marsette. A gifted athlete who’s dangerous with the ball in his hands, Smith-Marsette put on a clinic in last year’s Holiday Bowl vs. USC, scoring touchdowns by way of receiving, rushing and on kickoff return. Standing at 6-1 and 183 pounds, the Newark, N.J. native has prototypical “Z receiver” traits in that he’s a crafty route runner capable of creating separation on all three levels of the field, and is dangerous on gadget plays like end-arounds and reverses, where he uses his natural instincts to exploit holes in the defense and his shiftiness to make defenders miss. Being slighter-framed leads to some inconsistencies escaping press coverage and sustaining his blocks in the run game, but – if he can improve in these areas – he has the potential to provide great value in the middle rounds of the draft to an NFL team looking for a versatile playmaker and special teams contributor.

Michal Menet, C, Penn State
When teams are evaluating centers, they seek smart, tough, athletic and consistent blockers — and Michal Menet is just that. The two-time captain returns for his third season as the Nittany Lions’ starting center and leads one of the most talented units in the country. Snapping with his right hand, the Birdsboro, Pennsylvania native hikes a very accurate and catchable shotgun snap before displaying the foot quickness necessary to execute a variety of blocking techniques. With good pad level and leg drive, Menet is capable of creating good initial push on the D-line in the run game, and then does a nice job using his quickness working to seal at the linebacker level. In the pass game, his pre-snap awareness helps Penn State get into good plays, and he then displays good awareness and quickness picking up blitzes and stunts while seeking out work when left uncovered.

NFLPA COLLEGIATE BOWL BIG BOARD: BIG TEN OFFENSE

Virginia Tech running back Khalil Herbert (Nell Redmond/Pool Photo via AP)

Each week, the scouting department at the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl will examine some of the top performances in college football by potential pro prospects that we are keeping an eye on. Be sure to monitor the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl Big Board for new player additions throughout the season!

Feleipe Franks, QB, Arkansas
The roller coaster career that is Feleipe Franks rode itself back up the tracks with a precision passing performance against Mississippi State, guiding Arkansas to its first SEC win in 21 games. Franks utilized play action well throughout the day, showing off his strong arm and ability to throw on the run, rolling out on multiple occasions, while completing 20-of-28 passes for 212 yards and two touchdowns. The transfer from Florida, who lost his starting job after suffering an ankle injury, came to Arkansas looking for a fresh start. He was quick to earn the respect of both his coaches and teammates, being named a team captain; and while his consistency has been streaky, pro scouts are still intrigued by his potential. Born into a military family and raised on a farm tending to horses, Franks also has one of the more well-versed background stories. Keep an eye on his development, as his size, mobility and perseverance have him on the NFL radar.

Feleipe Franks had 2 TD, Joe Foucha had 2 INT.

Arkansas upset #16 Mississippi State 21-14. Razorbacks get their first SEC win since 2017.

Video + Sam Pittman reaction from SEC Network.

Read more here: https://t.co/V0dPXwYE5V pic.twitter.com/O0T20vrmuL

— Chris Hudgison (@ChrisHudgison) October 4, 2020

Khalil Herbert, RB, Virginia Tech
Big-time performances have become something of the norm for Virginia Tech running back Khalil Herbert, who had himself a monstrous day. Herbert had an 83-yard kickoff return and two rushing touchdowns, including one 60-yard scamper on his way to setting a new Hokies single game school-record with 358 all-purpose yards. Herbert is currently one of the most underrated prospects in the land, and with his elite-level vision and explosiveness, there is no doubt that he’s ascending on draft boards around the league.

➖ 358 all-purpose yards
➖ 208 rush yards
➖ 2 rush TDs

Khalil Herbert is the first @HokiesFB player with 300+ all-purpose yards in a single game since 2004 🦃 pic.twitter.com/cA8xGQvRuA

— ACC Network (@accnetwork) October 3, 2020

Reggie Roberson Jr., WR, SMU
It was the biggest day any SMU wideout has ever had, as Reggie Roberson became the first Mustangs player ever to amass more than 200 yards receiving in a single game. Roberson Jr. flashed his run-after-catch skillset, scoring on receptions of 70 and 85 yards to total a whopping 243 receiving yards on five catches and help give SMU a win in a wild shootout with Memphis. Roberson Jr. did all this without even playing in the fourth quarter due to an injury that, thankfully, isn’t considered and will be re-evaluated this week before their next game on October 16 at Tulane.

Reggie Roberson with one of the nastiest moves of the century

pic.twitter.com/85hQwfuFEh

— PFF College (@PFF_College) October 3, 2020

Emeka Emezie, WR, N.C. State
Keep an eye on EMEKA EMEZIE, as the Wolfpack look to open up the offense more in the coming weeks. His athleticism and ball skills were at the forefront this past Saturday, as Emezie made several acrobatic clutch catches in their upset win over Pittsburgh, including the game-winning reception with just 23 seconds left. A descent of Nigeria, the former basketball player owns an excellent vertical game to go along with ideal size and speed. Emezie placed an extra emphasis on his route running and conditioning during the offseason, which is now paying huge dividends, making him one to watch as we get closer to April.

NC State’s game winning TD! Devin Leary 13 yard TD to Emeka Emezie! Great throw & catch! pic.twitter.com/QeEOy3C5Qi

— KÏŁŁÄ ČÄM (@FTBeard1) October 3, 2020

Tony Fields II, LB, West Virginia
A graduate transfer from Arizona, Tony Fields II has had a huge impact for West Virginia early on, providing great leadership, experience and what head coach Neal Brown calls a ‘train stopper’ mentality. Those intangibles were on display once again, as Fields II racked up 10 tackles, including two for loss, with one sack, one pass deflection and a handful of quarterback pressures, as the Mountaineers upended Baylor. A three-year starter at WILL linebacker during his time in Tuscon, Fields II has moved to the MIKE position this season in Morgantown. Through three games, the Las Vegas native now has a team-high 29 tackles, bringing his career total to 316, while also raising his draft profile. With a multi-faceted skill-set, Fields II possesses the ability to take on blocks and stuff the run effectively, in addition to being able to drop back in coverage or get after the quarterback when asked to serve as a pass-rusher, makes Fields II a valuable commodity at the next level.

Arizona Linebacker Transfer Tony Fields II is making a HUGE impact today for West Virginia. pic.twitter.com/qDpR4i2kBH

— NCAAF Nation (@NCAAFNation247) October 3, 2020

Florida quarterback Kyle Trask (AP Photo/Thomas Graning)

Each week, the scouting department at the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl will examine some of the top performances in college football by potential pro prospects that we are keeping an eye on. Be sure to monitor the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl Big Board for new player additions throughout the season!

Kyle Trask, QB, Florida:
You could not have scripted the season opener any better for Gators quarterback Kyle Trask, who set a career-high with 416 passing yards to go along with an SEC single-game record six touchdown passes, as Florida romped Mississippi. Trask showcased his ability to work all parts of the field, spreading the ball around to 11 different receivers, while his touchdown passes averaged 21.2 yards per pass. We’ve seen a slew of quarterbacks catapult themselves to the No. 1 overall pick in recent years, such as Baker Mayfield, Kyler Murray and Joe Burrow, while others such as Dwayne Haskins and Mitchell Trubisky went from relatively unknowns to first-round picks. Could Trask be the next in line? It shouldn’t be ruled out.

Kyle Trask making it look easy! 🔥

🎥@PFF_College pic.twitter.com/ezcuAQroYW

— Schillers_Sports_Talk (@SchillersT) September 26, 2020

K.J. Costello, QB, Mississippi State:
Not to be outdone in the SEC, quarterback K.J. Costello set a single-game conference record with 623 passing yards, as Mississippi State upset the defending champion LSU Tigers. The transfer from Stanford overcame four turnovers to lead the Bulldogs to an impressive victory in his season debut, demonstrating the type of poise and leadership that could make for a match made in heaven with Bulldogs new head coach Mike Leach. We have seen plenty of Leach-coached signal callers make their way to the next level, but Costello is by far the most cerebral quarterback that Leach has ever had to work with. And the way that NFL offenses are trending, Costello could become a hot commodity come April.

Can’t do it any better than this, nice touch by KJ Costello pic.twitter.com/JGd9HpL1o7

— SEC Mike (@MichaelWBratton) September 26, 2020

Spencer Brown, RB, UAB:
After battling injuries for much of the past two seasons, UAB power back Spencer Brown took it upon himself to get leaner and meaner heading into his final season, dropping nearly 20 pounds. Early indications are that it has paid handsome dividends, as Brown has looked faster and more explosive. This past week, he added to his touchdown total, scoring on runs of 15, 1 and 20 yards, while setting a new school record with 36 career touchdowns. A noted workout warrior, Brown can squat 600-plus pounds without effort and has left a notorious history of weight room stories behind during his legendary Blazers career. He’s also the school’s all-time leading rusher, as well as the nation’s second active career leading rusher with 3,323 yards, behind only Clemson running back Travis Etienne. Remember the name, as Spencer Brown has the makeup of a pro back.

Spencer Brown’s third TD of the night breaks a @UAB_FB program record!

Brown now holds the top spot for most rushing TDs in program history with 3️⃣6️⃣ career touchdowns 🙌

WATCH > https://t.co/SsY6y08AJ7 pic.twitter.com/IOgrX9locI

— Conference USA (@ConferenceUSA) September 25, 2020

Justus Reed, DL, Virginia Tech:
The long, winding road that is the career of Justus Reed has led to Blacksburg, where the pass-rush specialist is making the most of his latest opportunity. After finishing with 19 tackles for loss, including 13 sacks a year ago, the sack master is off to a fast start once again, registering two sacks in the Hokies season-opener win over North Carolina State. His length, strength and quickness are three attributes that will warrant a look at the next level for the seventh-year senior. Reed spent his first three seasons at Florida before transferring to Youngstown State, where he spent the past three years and ultimately decided to transfer to Virginia Tech for a chance to play in the fall in 2020. If selected, Reed would become the oldest player chosen in the NFL Draft since Brandon Weeden (2012).

DE Justus Reed with the SACK pic.twitter.com/UheHDL7EIf

— NCAAF Nation (@NCAAFNation247) September 27, 2020

*Be sure to follow the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl on Twitter @NFLPABowl for the latest scouting notes, alumni updates and event news! Also, tune in to our weekly podcast hosted by NFLPA Bowl director of college recruiting Dane Vandernat and Ric Serritella of the NFL Draft Bible.

Louisiana Lafayette running back Elijah Mitchell (AP Photo/John Amis)

Each week, the scouting department at the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl will examine some of the top performances in college football by potential pro prospects that we are keeping an eye on. Be sure to monitor the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl Big Board for new player additions throughout the season!

Kenny Pickett, QB, Pittsburgh
One of the more under-heralded senior signal-callers is Pitt quarterback Kenny Pickett, who steered the Panthers to victory over Syracuse with an efficient game. The team co-captain was surgical, converting several key third downs while also showcasing the arm strength to make big throws downfield. Praised for his leadership and intangibles, his style of play doesn’t always show up in the box score but it’s the subtle things that he is able to do that will make scouts want to go to bat for him when draft season rolls around.

Kenny Pickett with the 🎯

Jared Wayne with the 🙌https://t.co/Cd7dVDYTpW#H2P pic.twitter.com/idlPFZ8xIO

— Pitt Football (@Pitt_FB) September 19, 2020

Elijah Mitchell, RB, Louisiana-Lafayette
The Rajun Cajuns came away victorious once again in what was a spicy matchup against Georgia State, as running back Elijah Mitchell rushed for 164 yards, including the game-winning touchdown in overtime — after setting up the go-ahead score with a 53-yard scamper. Mitchell also had a 59-yard touchdown run during the game, showcasing his long speed while averaging more than 10 yards per carry on the day. A two-star recruit coming out of high school, the rugged, tough, downhill runner is used to being slept on, but he has quietly emerged as one of the top senior running back prospects in the nation. He looks to follow in the footsteps of former teammate and Collegiate Bowl participant Raymond Calais Jr. (L.A. Rams), who was selected in the seventh round of the 2020 NFL Draft.

WATCH: @RaginCajunsFB Elijah Mitchell (@EliMitch15) hit 20.6 MPH on this 59-yard TD @NCAAFNation247 #myRAnaxspeed | 🎥 @espn pic.twitter.com/JHImU9GSgF

— Recruiting Analytics (@RAanalytics) September 19, 2020

Dorian Etheridge, LB, Louisville
A four-year starter and team captain, Louisville middle linebacker Dorian Ehteridge has been a staple of excellence for the Cardinals. His efforts in primetime against the Miami Hurricanes didn’t go unnoticed, as he demonstrated his sideline-to-sideline prowess with seven tackles, including 1.5 tackles for loss. Praised for his smarts and intelligence by the coaching staff, Etheridge possesses the type of raw athleticism, along with consistency that could make him an appealing developmental prospect at the next level.

𝗖𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻 (𝗻): one who exemplifies the qualities of a leader & sets the tone for the team#BeatND captains: Dorian Etheridge, C.J. Avery, Tyler Haycraft & Blanton Creque#GoCards pic.twitter.com/sGaPIbArip

— Louisville Football (@UofLFootball) August 27, 2019

*Be sure to follow the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl on Twitter @NFLPABowl for the latest scouting notes, alumni updates and event news! Also, tune in to our weekly podcast hosted by NFLPA Bowl director of college recruiting Dane Vandernat and Ric Serritella of the NFL Draft Bible.

Houston Baptist quarterback Bailey Zappe (AP Photo/Mark Rogers)

Each week, the scouting department at the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl will examine some of the top performances in college football by potential pro prospects that we are keeping an eye on. Be sure to monitor the NFLPA Bowl Watch List for new player additions throughout the season!

Bailey Zappe, QB, Houston Baptist

In Lubbock, Texas, the Houston Baptist Huskies nearly pulled off a huge upset versus Texas Tech behind the valiant effort of gunslinger quarterback Bailey Zappe, who was highly efficient, completing 30 of 49 passes for 567 yards and four touchdowns. His ability to throw the deep ball was on full display, tossing touchdown passes of 65, 65 and 75 yards. In addition, Zappe flashed the ability to alter arm angles and show an array of releases, which shouldn’t come as much of a surprise. His offensive coordinator is Zach Kittley, who was the Texas Tech quarterbacks coach when Super Bowl MVP Patrick Mahomes was enrolled.

It’s safe to say that some of that magic has rubbed off on Zappe, as he now has thrown for more than 1,000 passing yards, with seven touchdowns and zero interceptions, through his first two games against FBS opponents. You can be sure that NFL scouts will be paying close attention to Zappe when the Huskies visit Conference USA foe Louisiana Tech in their next matchup.

HOUSTON BAPTIST!!! Bailey Zappe hits Josh Sterns deep for the 65 yard TD! Houston Baptist was down 21-3 at one point, they’ve scored 17 straight points since then! pic.twitter.com/6sRauP44Ls

— KÏŁŁÄ ČÄM (@FTBeard1) September 13, 2020

Jonathan Adams Jr., WR, Arkansas State
Another small school standout put together a big-game performance in Manhattan, Kansas this past weekend. This time, it was Arkansas State playmaker Jonathan Adams Jr., who totaled eight catches for 98 yards and a trio of touchdowns, including the game-winning score with just 38 seconds remaining, helping the Red Wolves prevail over Kansas State. The long, big-bodied receiver demonstrated tremendous athleticism, making several acrobatic catches and one-handed grabs, in addition to showing off his wide catch radius with his vertical game.

Last year, the NFLPA Bowl featured two Arkansas State wideouts who eventually landed on NFL rosters in Omar Bayless (Panthers) and Kirk Merritt (Dolphins). The next player to emerge from the pipeline could very well be the talented Adams Jr.

One of the best catches you’ll ever see by Jonathan Adams pic.twitter.com/LBTgbWua62

— Thor Nystrom (@thorku) September 12, 2020

Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, LB, Notre Dame

The Fighting Irish defensive dynamo that is Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, was flying all over the field on Saturday with nine tackles, including two tackles for loss, one sack and a forced fumble. The converted safety has thrived in his new linebacker (rover) role, demonstrating the type of natural instincts, athleticism and closing speed that could make him a very high selection once the NFL Draft rolls around.

His performance was an excellent start to the season, which caught the attention of our scouting staff and also helped guide Notre Dame to the win over Duke in their first ever ACC matchup in school history.

The JOKer, Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah forces the fumble and the #Irish take over.

Also, Kyle Hamilton, the greatest football player in world history, with an ugly knee injury 😭

Please God let it be a stinger pic.twitter.com/Vc7nA8WjNJ

— 4 Horsemen Podcast (@HorsemenPod) September 12, 2020

*Be sure to follow the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl on Twitter @NFLPABowl for the latest scouting notes, alumni updates and event news! Also, tune in to our weekly podcast hosted by NFLPA Bowl director of college recruiting Dane Vandernat and Ric Serritella of the NFL Draft Bible.