In the first of what should be a consistent line of bowl games with a substantial amount of prospects, the “MAACO Bowl Las Vegas” has a chance to keep scouts and fans eyes glued to the TV to see how each of the NFL prospects fair in this game.
From a likely first rounder at inside linebacker, a top senior in the running back class, and a handful of intriguing mid-to late rounders. the Arizona State vs. Boise State match-up may end up being a better prospect vs. prospect match-up than a 6-6 vs. 11-1 game match-up.
1. Vontaze Burfict, ILB, Arizona State (Jr)
Though questions about his aggressive (sometimes over-aggressive) style has come into question, there is little denying he has the potential to be a huge impact playmaker at inside linebacker in the NFL. His violent hitting ability, overall power and force he plays with to get to the ball, and athletic ability, he should be a Top 15 pick as long as teams can bypass the character concerns.
2. Doug Martin, RB, Boise State
One of the more unheralded runners in college football, Martin has been overlooked at times thanks to Boise’s non-undefeated season and the outstanding production of Kellen Moore. But make no doubt about it: Doug Martin is the clear top senior running back prospect, thanks to his quick cuts, explosion through the hole, and wiggle in the hole to get to the second level.
3. Kellen Moore, QB, Boise State
Kellen Moore has the highest football IQ of any quarterback in college football. Period. Better than Barkley and even better than Luck. His understanding of the game on the chalkboard, pre-snap, and post-snap is remarkable. The arm strength is a major issue and likely will limit which teams view him as a quarterback with a starting-potential ceiling, but his touch, understanding, composure, and leadership should allow him to thrive in this game against a talented defense, and in the NFL in some capacity.
4. Billy Winn, DT, Boise State
A fairly athletically built tackle-end in-betweener, I believe Winn ideally fits outside at the defensive end, preferably in a 3-4 defense. He reacts well to the ball while engaged, rarely is muscled out of position, and plays with good leverage. Nothing special or flashy, he should be a main reason for the likely disruption in the running back in this one.
5. Shae McClellin, DE, Boise State
Not an overly athletic end on the outside, McClellin has displayed good hand placement, slapping offensive tackles away intiailly, and some ability to play in space. He may be asked to be a 3-4 outside linebacker in the NFL, a position where he’ll need to show his hip fluidity and flexibility.
6. Nate Potter, OG, Boise State
Played tackle in college, Potter doesn’t have the kick slide or upper body length-to-power combination to stay outside, but has the potential to fit into a zone-blocking system in the NFL thanks to his movement off the line.
7. Jamaar Jarrett, DE, Arizona State
Possesses great length and overall size, he’s still a bit of a project in terms of developed pass rush moves and utilizing his length consistency. However, his smooth running ability and high ceiling could cause teams to be intrigued and jump on late in draft, especially if he can get after Kellen Moore.
Others to Watch
8. George Iioka, S, Boise State
9. Gerrell Robinson, WR, Arizona State
10. Tyler Shoemaker, WR, Boise State
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