In the second (and MUCH better) Bowl Game on December 22nd, the Washington Huskies face off against the perennial BCS contending Boise State roster. It what could be one of the better coaching and schematic match-ups of the early bowl seasons, this game shouldn't disappoint in terms of excitement.
While Washington only has one senior (and no expected-to-declare juniors) prospect in Desmond Trufant, Boise State features three solid, fringe draftable senior prospects to consider this NFL Draft season and to watch in this Las Vegas Bowl match-up.
Boise State Notes by Chad Dinkins
Desmond Trufant, CB, Washington – #6, 6'1, 190
Trufant is an excellent athlete with an ideal skill set for a cover corner. He has long arms and at 6 feet, good height to compete with taller receivers. He displays quick feet and hips quickly snap in changing direction and in turn and run. He doesn't take false steps when redirecting or in his click and close. He has very good burst to the football and shows make up speed to recover downfield. However, Trufant has a wiry frame and subpar play strength. He has the athleticism to stay in his guy's hip pocket in man, but when it comes to competing for the ball against bigger receivers, he can be out-physicalled. Perhaps the biggest knock on Trufant is his tackling ability. His tackling technique is often poor, rarely squaring up and wrapping up. Trufant undoubtedly has the natural skill set and athleticism to be a top cover man, but he must continue to get stronger and improve his overall physicality.
DJ Harper, RB, Boise State – #7. 5'9, 201
A very small compact runner. Harper hits the hole hard with short choppy steps with great burst. He has the ability to break tackles with lower body power as well as enough explosiveness to take it to the house. He has good vision, able to make one cut and explode, and is adequate in pass-pro. If it wasn't for his injury history, he may push more towards a draftable grade as a runner.
Joe Kellogg, OG, Boise State – #61, 6'2, 309
An athletic lineman, Kellogg excels in space and getting to the next level. He has great feet and utilizes his hands and leverage very well. Kellogg has a sturdy base and great balance in pass pro. A technician, Kellogg could have a long career in the NFL as an interior lineman.
Jamar Taylor, DB, Boise State – #5, 5’11 196
Taylor has exceptional speed and hands. He has a knack for making big plays in the passing game. Taylor has fluid hips and is able to turn well in pass coverage, and is very good on the edge versus the run.
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