While the new Camellia Bowl doesn’t offer two powerhouse teams, it does feature one of the 2015 draft’s more intriguing quarterback prospects, a new-age NFL tight end and a MAC linebacker hoping to turn production into a draft selection.
South Alabama
Brandon Bridge, QB – #7, 6’5, 235
Clearly still a raw passer, Bridge’s release quickness, upper-to-lower body meshing mechanics, and overall throwing motion need plenty of work at the NFL level, and teams’ may wonder if he’ll be able to adjust quickly enough to merit a draft pick. However, based on pure talent, he possess the best arm strength in the 2015 senior class (and probably any potential juniors that declare as well), and his live arm combined with his smooth athletic ability displayed as a runner and body control when off balance oozes with potential. His placement, mechanics and pocket presence need improvement, but be sure to watch his vertical throwing ability, athleticism and flexibility to evade rushers without losing velocity as he matches up with Bowling Green.
Wes Saxton, TE – #13, 6’4, 240
Saxton has been a chess piece for the Jaguars, playing an H-Back role in the backfield and the slot more than a true tight end alignment. A plus-runner and athlete after the catch, Saxton possesses unique speed to the position and forces defenses to treat him as a big-bodied interior receiver than a usual tight end. His route-based separation and finishing ability in traffic could use some work, as he’s still raw and will struggle in those areas early in his NFL career. As a plus-athlete who’s produced at the FBS level (along with being a Senior Bowl invite), he has top-150, if not higher, potential, based on how comfortable teams are with his long-term development and ability to slide into an NFL role.
Bowling Green
Gabe Martin, LB – #11, 6’2, 236
The Bowling Green tackle leader role is to control the mid-field in the run game and match-up with tight ends in the slot. He struggled throughout his senior season against pass-catching tight ends, and despite having adequate size (likely above 6’0), he’ll struggle to transition to an adequate coverage linebacker in the NFL. He finishes well on the inside when partially engaged and in space, but his change of direction is lackluster (likely due to a prior knee injury) and his poor performance against the Wisconsin offense sticks out as a limiting factor of his NFL projection as a run defender.
Others to Watch
DJ Lynch, LB – #7, 6’1, 252
Bryan Thomas, DE – #43, 6’3, 248
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