Upset Saturday (TM) finally arrived during the third week of the 2018 college football season. No. 6 Wisconsin was stunned by a BYU team running it down their throats while No. 12 LSU proved that they’re the team that should be challenging for the SEC title, not No. 7 Auburn. Meanwhile, local teams Syracuse and University at Buffalo continue to roll. Below are the NFL prospects that should get some praise from scouts after this week.
Alton Robinson, DE (Syracuse)
The Syracuse defensive line ran a pass rushing and run stuffing clinic against Florida State, with defensive end Alton Robinson acting as head professor with a sack, a tackle-for-loss, a batted pass, and several pressures of Florida State quarterback Deondre Francois. The junior JUCO transfer used a variety of pass rushing moves, including rips, swims, and long arms, which completely overwhelmed Florida State right tackle Derrick Kelly.
Marquise “Hollywood” Brown, WR (Oklahoma)
Doing most of his damage in the first half, Brown torched the Iowa State secondary to the tune of 9 catches for 191 yards and a touchdown. What was encouraging to see though was his willingness to block in the run game and to work across the middle of the field on intermediate throws. If the junior wide receiver wants to get drafted in the first round, he needs to prove he’s more than just a deep threat at the position.
Andraez “Greedy” Williams, CB (LSU)
Besides completely shutting down Auburn receiver Nate Craig-Myers, Williams earned his moniker this week in coming down with an interception of Auburn quarterback Jarrett Stidham. The sophomore cornerback knew he had help over the top and was able to undercut the route, came down with the interception and turned it upfield for a decent gain. One of the best corners in the country, it’s looking like Williams is deserving of a top-ten pick.
Darrell Henderson, RB (Memphis)
The 5’9”, 200-pound running back proved that he’s the best Memphis tailback prospect since DeAngelo Williams thanks to his performance against Georgia State. The diminutive junior was dominant in rushing for 233 yards and two touchdowns. His running style is eerily similar to his predecessor: although small, he carries a good amount of weight and excels at breaking tackles. His draft stock is on the rise.
Chuck Harris, DE (University at Buffalo)
UB improved to 3-0 against Eastern Michigan thanks in part to the efforts of Harris. The senior defensive end was a terror off the edge all game for the Bulls, with a final stat line of 8 tackles, 3 tackles-for-loss, 2.5 sacks, and a forced fumble. The forced fumble could not have happened at a better time, as it short-circuited an Eagles drive that could have brought the team to within seven. More production like this might ensure Harris a chance to get drafted or signed as an UDFA.
Martez Ivey, LT (Florida)
Feleipe Franks was able to take his time in dissecting the Colorado State secondary thanks to his offensive line, and Ivey in particular, allowing very few pressures. Although struggling to get the second level on certain run plays, Ivey’s virtually perfect day in pass protection more than made up for it. There’s been talk of Ivey having to move inside in the pros, but with these types of performances teams may decide to give him a chance on the outside.