No. 1 Alabama vs. No. 4 Cincinnati in the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic, 3:30 p.m. ET
ALABAMA
Alabama is the SEC Champion after going 12-1 and beating Georgia in the title game. Their lone loss was a night game at Kyle Field to a talented Texas A&M squad. However, this isn’t the same dominating squad as last year. Alabama looked human against LSU, Arkansas, and Auburn. All teams that can run the ball.
Bryce Young had a Heisman Trophy-winning game against Georgia (421 yds, 3 TDs). Old New England friend, Bill O’Brien, has done a great job with Young who’s second in the country in QBR, (88.9). Alabama is very good on first and third down.
The defense is wildly talented but can be streaky. They are at their best when they can dictate the game to an offense. Third in the country in sacks. Bama’s front seven gives them the best chance to dominate in this game.
OFFENSE
QB #9 Bryce Young (So, 6-0, 194): After backing up Mac Jones last year, Young has had a phenomenal season culminating in the Heisman Trophy. He reminds me of Russell Wilson because of his size, arm, ability to keep plays alive and match the moment. Young is the front-runner to be the top pick in the 2023 draft.
RB #4 Brian Robinson Jr. (RSr, 6'1, 225): Might not be fully healthy for this game but played injured in the SEC title game. He’s having a very good year with 1,114 yards rushing, 31 catches and 16 total TDs. He runs with purpose, and he can punish the tackler if they don't pack their lunch. Robinson has NFL size and wiggle and would be a solid pick in the 3rd round.
RB #6 Trey Sanders (RSo, 6’0, 214): Five-star recruit that has battled injuries over the last couple of seasons.
WR #1 Jameson Williams (Jr, 6'2, 190): Has plus speed and he explodes out of his breaks to get on defenders. Once Jameson has the ball in his hands, he is dangerous (1,445 receiving yards and 15 TDs). Over 30% of his catches went for over 30 yards. While it’s a deep WR class, he’s a first-rounder. His match-up with the Bearcat secondary is a key to the game.
WR #2 Jameson Williams (Jr, 6-2, 189): Alabama will use a combination of Ja’Corey Brooks, Javon Baker, and JoJo Earle. All of them are very talented, but inexperienced underclassmen who total 24 catches.
Slot WR #18 Slade Bolden (RJr, 5'11, 194): Reliable player who’s contributed 32 catches for 333 yards.
TE #81 Cameron Latu (RJr, 6'5, 250): Started his career as a DE and converted to TE. He's adept at moving the chains and he's a key red zone target for the Tide. He'll be a pro prospect next year.
TE #19 Jahleel Billingsley (Jr, 6'4, 230): Highly rated coming into the season but he's been in Nick Saban and Bill O'Brien's doghouse. He needs more polish, bulk, and more importantly consistency for the NFL game. That said, he's a great athlete and with the injury to John Metchie, I expect the Tide to try and lean on him. He's a physical mismatch for linebackers and most safeties.
LT #73 Evan Neal (Jr, 6'7, 350): Top 5 pick. He’s very good in the pass and run game. I expect him to be the first tackle selected in the draft.
LG #70 Javion Cohen (So, 6-4, 327): Young player who has had his speed bumps. Potential place for the Bearcats to attack with their LB blitzes.
C #71 Darrian Dalcourt (Jr, 6'3, 300): Didn't play in the SEC Championship with an ankle injury but he's expected back. Solid player.
RG #55 Emil Ekiyor Jr. (RJr, 6'3, 324): Future NFL potential. Strong player and very effective once he's locked with the defender. Still needs refinement in the passing game and at the second level.
RT #79 Chris Owens (RSr, 6'3, 305): The weak spot on the Tide offensive line. He played very well against Georgia and Bryce Young had a lot of time which led to a monster day. The Bearcats will test Owens off the edge with Sanders and it's a key matchup.
DEFENSE
DL #48 Phidarian Mathis (RSr, 6'4, 312): The leader along the defensive line, relying on power and hustle to produce 46 tackles, 10 TFL, and 8 sacks. He was voted All-SEC Second Team by conference coaches. He started the year as a Day 3 pick and he’s played himself into the Top 75.
DL #94 DJ Dale (Jr, 6'3, 300): Part of the Tide rotation for a few years but he hasn't played well this year. Alabama will also rotate Tim Smith, LaBryan Ray, and Justin Eboigbe along their interior front.
DL #47 Byron Young (Jr, 6'3, 292): Very stout against the run and can line up inside or play DE on early downs. He had 37 tackles and 9 TFL this year. Depth player at the next level.
Edge #31 Will Anderson Jr. (So, 6'4, 243): He's not eligible for the draft until next season and he's still the best player in college football. He led the country in sacks (15.5) and TFL (32.5!). With another 75 QB pressures. Second on the team in tackles with 92. He reminds me of a young Derrick Thomas.
Edge #15 Dallas Turner (Fr, 6'4, 245): One of the top prospects in the country and selected to the All-SEC Freshman Team by the conference coaches. 25 tackles, 7 TFL, and 5.5 sacks. He's a player to keep an eye on.
LB #10 Henry To'o To'o (Jr, 6'2, 228): The Tennessee transfer led the Crimson Tide in tackles (101) but I don’t think he’s consistent enough to be a top 100 pick. He’s a draftable player but he should stay in the program another year.
LB #8 Christian Harris (Jr, 6'2, 232): He has great potential and was tabbed as the next in the recent lineage of Tide standout LBs (which includes Dont’a Hightower). He hasn’t put it together yet and his draft prospects are still more about flash than consistent production. Top 100 pick.
CB #1 Kool-Aid McKinstry (Fr, 6'1,190): He was a top recruit and he's going to be a future star. Forced into action because of injuries but he was named to the Freshman All-SEC team.
CB #6 Khyree Jackson (Jr, 6'3,197): Spent some time in the JUCO system before becoming a top recruit. He's been good on special teams, but he'll be forced into more playing time due to Tide injuries (Josh Jobe and Jalyn-Armour Davis).
CB #14 Brian Branch (So, 6'0, 190): Versatile DB who can play multiple positions. Leads the team with 7 PBUs.
SCB #13 Malachi Moore (So, 6'0, 190): Hasn’t been as good, or made the impact that he made last season as a freshman. Teams have been targeting him in the slot. He plays the same role as former Tide star, Minkah Fitzpatrick.
SS #2 DeMarcco Hellams (Jr, 6'1, 208): Decent player. He's third on the team with 74 tackles and leads the team with 3 interceptions.
FS #9 Jordan Battle (Jr, 6'1, 210): All-SEC First Team and a number of All-America honors. He has played a lot for the Tide over the last few years. He offers some versatility, with the ability to play in the box, slot, or deep safety. He had a pick-six in the SEC Championship. He’ll be considered a safe draft selection because of his uniform, the Saban effect, & playing experience - all of which could get him into Round 2.
CINCINNATI
The First Group of 5 team to qualify for the College Football Playoff, Cincinnati went undefeated, rolling through the American Athletic Conference and two road wins over Power 5 schools, Notre Dame and Indiana (talented and healthier when they played the Bearcats). While they don’t have the team depth and haven’t played an SEC schedule, Cincinnati does belong here, and they have some high-end talent (6-7 draft picks) that make this game interesting.
Coach Luke Fickell is a really good coach with a strong defensive background (they run a 3-3 stack). They’ve won 25 out of the last 26 games (lone loss was to Georgia in the Sugar Bowl last year). They have the most efficient pass defense in the country. Their line isn’t big, but they are quick and Fickell will bring pressure from multiple areas and mix-up coverages well. They’re good at forcing turnover and they’ll need to win the turnover battle against Alabama.
On offense, QB Desmond Ridder will be in the spotlight. However, they stir their drink based on the running game. They lean on RB Jerome Ford and the threat of Ridder to draw a defense in for play action. They are ultra-efficient from there.
Ridder isn’t always accurate, but he does have the ability to make plays off script and throws off platform. He does a good job on first down and teams are forced to respect his running ability. He’s a 4-year starter and one of the winningest quarterbacks in college football history.
One thing to call out, they do not have a good kicking game. Cincinnati can’t afford to waste any opportunity for points.
OFFENSE
QB #9 Desmond Ridder (RSr, 6'4, 215): Called out Ridder as a potential first-rounder to start the year and he’s delivered. His biggest areas for improvement are accuracy and improved mechanics. Until he does that his NFL floor will be somewhat limited, but he has good intangibles; tough kid, has matured since becoming a father, team leader. If he performs on this stage, he cements his status as one of the top 3 QB's selected.
RB #24 Jerome Ford (Jr, 5'11, 220): An Alabama transfer who’s very productive and a big part of the Bearcat offense (1,263 rushing yards and 20 total TDs). He has great size and speed for the college level (pro speed will need to be tested at the combine). Day 3 pick.
WR #12 Alec Pierce (RSr, 6'3, 213): Tough kid that plays like a linebacker. Good athlete but doesn’t always catch the ball cleanly. He doesn't have great speed but is deceptively quick and has solid leaping ability to high point jump balls. He’s likely a 3rd rounder.
WR #21 Tyler Scott (So, 5'11, 177): The Bearcats' big play threat (averages almost 20 YPC) and 5 TDs.
Slot #8 Michael Young Jr. (RSr, 5'10, 195): Graduate transfer from Notre Dame transfer. He’s experienced but won't concern Alabama.
TE #81 Josh Whyle (RJr, 6'6, 245): Not always consistent and not a good blocker but he can make plays with his athleticism (he's a mismatch on most linebackers) and is a solid red-zone target.
TE #11 Leonard Taylor (Sr, 6'5, 250): Pretty good tight end who allows the Bearcats to play with a heavy formation but still have play calling balance. He has 27 catches and 4 TDs.
LT #72 James Tunstall (Jr, 6'5, 311): Average player.
LG #74 Jeremy Cooper (RJr, 6'4, 315): Average player.
C #56 Jake Renfro (So, 6'3, 310): Over time, I think Renfro ends up being the best pro prospect. First-team All-AAC.
RG #51 Lorenz Metz (RJr, 6'9, 326): The easy comparison is Sebastian Vollmer because of his size and German background. Originally a defensive lineman, he uses his length well in the run game but can struggle when players get into his chest in the pass game. Needs refinement. First-team All-AAC.
RT #50 Dylan O'Quinn (RJr, 6'4, 305): Recruited to Cincinnati as a TE and has bulked up to become starting RT and First-team All-AAC. However, this is a favorable matchup for Alabama.
DEFENSE
DE #21 Myjai Sanders (Sr, 6'5, 255): Wish he had dominated more this season, but Sanders has SEC level athleticism. He has the frame to put on more “NFL” weight. Should be noted that he’s thin through the legs (sometimes a red flag). He’s a good athlete (you’ll notice him on the TV) but he will need to develop more bull and anchor to consistently play all downs at the next level. He’ll get drafted on Day 2.
DE #42 Malik Vann (Sr, 6'4, 275): Decent player that can be moved along the line of scrimmage. Helps set the edge in the run game which will be key against Alabama.
DT #92 Curtis Brooks (Sr, 6'2, 285): Leads the team with 7.5 sacks and he’s having a good season. He's an active player inside but on the small side for the NFL (and in this game). An All-AAC First-team selection.
DT #99 Marcus Brown (Sr, 6'2, 297): Experienced player who hasn't played very well this season. Will need to play much better to help stop the Bama run game.
LB #0 Darrian Beavers (RSr, 6'4, 255): All-Conference player with really good size. He previously started his career at UConn. Very effective going forward against the run and on the blitz. He may need to adjust his position at the next level.
LB #41 Joel Dublanko (Sr, 6'3, 240): Good all-around player and leads the team with 106 tackles. The defensive scheme allows for creative blitzes and Dublanko has 5.5 sacks.
LB #20 Deshawn Pace (So, 6'2, 218): Recruited as a safety and made the switch to LB. He's the Bearcats best coverage linebacker.
LB #13 Ty Van Fossen (RJr, 6'2, 220): Decent college player with 61 tackles (6.5 TFL).
CB #1 Ahmad Gardner (Jr, 6'3, 200): First-rounder. He goes by the name “Sauce” and he’s big, long and plays with confidence. He’s played 355 snaps this year in coverage and given up only 17 catches for just over 100 yards. More impressive, he’s never given up an interception (his entire career). He’s very good in press-man coverage but he’ll need to be careful with his hands (like recent Carolina pick Jaycee Horn). His Cotton Bowl matchup with Jameson Williams is the one to watch.
CB #7 Coby Bryant (RSr, 6'1, 198): Won the Thorpe Award given to the college football’s best DB. He has good press skills at the LOS and good timing when the ball is in the air. Great intangibles on his scouting report. Player for Patriots fans to watch and he’ll be selected between Rounds 2 to 4.
SCB #13 Arquon Bush (RJr, 6'0, 190): Below average and can be targeted.
SS #6 Bryan Cook (Sr, 6'1, 210): He's a plus-tackler, takes good angles & squares himself at the point of contact. He’s an underrated prospect because he started his career at Howard and was a backup last season (both starters were NFL picks). Day 3 selection.
FS #3 Ja'von Hicks (Sr, 6'2, 205): Decent college player but he does have 4 forced turnovers this year.
No. 2 Michigan vs. No. 3 Georgia in the Capital One Orange Bowl, 7:30 p.m. ET
GEORGIA
Georgia has the best college defense in recent memory. They’ve allowed under 10 points and just over 250 yards a game (and that’s including Alabama’s performance in the SEC Championship). The defense is built inside out, which Bill Belichick would love, based on strength up the middle (lots of power and speed). This means you need to beat them outside the numbers, something Alabama was able to do with talented wide receivers, a very good QB, and enough pass protection. Unless Georgia plays undisciplined, that's the recipe to beat them.
The Georgia offense runs a modern pro-style scheme. They trust the former walk-on, Stetson Bennett, to run the offense more efficiently. His agility and running ability are his greatest strengths - it allows them to move the pocket. However, he’s not a consistent thrower and can be streaky. Their offensive line is strong, big up the middle, athletic tackles and they’re effective running the ball.
The offense is also predicated on the play action. Brock Bowers is the best freshman TE I can remember. He’s able to line-up in-line to help block but also split out wide. That gives the Georgia offense extreme versatility, and they’ll have double tight ends on the field much of the game without limiting their playbook. Michigan will need to identify Bowers on every snap.
OFFENSE
QB #13 Stetson Bennett (RSr, 5-11, 190): The former walk-on is the Dollar Store version of Baker Mayfield. He's not very big but he makes up for it with a gamer mentality. He clearly has the respect of his teammates. He can be hit or miss passing the ball but he's faster than he looks and can break a big run. Play-action is the key element to the Georgia offense and Michigan will be forced to respect the RPO.
QB #18 JT Daniels (RJr, 6-3, 210): Was the starter to begin the season but he’s dealt with injuries all year. He has more of an NFL profile than Bennett, but the coaches trust the offense more with Stetson running it. If Georgia needs a spark, or gets behind by two TDs, then the coaching staff may look to bring in Daniels. He has the physical toolset.
RB #4 James Cook (Sr, 5'11,190): Brother of current Viking, Dalvin Cook, he runs with the same style. He’s been a bit more explosive than White this year (averages 6.1 YPC and 7 TDs). Cook can be a receiving weapon out of the backfield. He’s an NFL player but not an early pick.
RB #3 Zamir White (Jr, 6'0, 215): Leader of a very talented 4-man RB rotation (Cook, Kenny McIntosh and Kendall Milton are the others). White has NFL RB size and can run effectively between the tackles. He likely won’t make a lot of people miss at the next level, but he’ll get what’s blocked plus YAC. For those of you who play fantasy football, good potential under-the-radar pick. Top 75 draft selection.
WR #1 George Pickens (Jr, 6'3, 200): Missed the offseason and virtually all of this season with an ACL tear. He played in the SEC Championship and had 2 catches for 41 yards. He’s expected to play (recently had COVID-19) and he's a player that can make an impact with just a few plays. He has a first-round skillset, but the injury history and his maturity will be the most important factor in his draft stock.
WR #7 Jermaine Burton (So, 6'0, 200): Good speed and big play ability (averages almost 18 YPC). He doesn't get a ton of targets in this offense, but he'll be a future pro prospect.
WR #5 Adonai Mitchell (Fr, 6'4, 190): Big freshman with great speed and he has the athleticism to make difficult sideline or end zone catches.
Slot #84 Ladd McConkey (RFr, 6'0, 185): Missed some time with an injury but he's expected to play in the Orange Bowl. He's the best route runner on the team and the second leading WR (28 catches, 430 yards, and 5 TDs).
TE #19 Brock Bowers (Fr, 6-4, 230): In the SEC Championship game, filled with NFL talent, he was one of the best players on the field. Remarkable for a freshman. He led the team with 47 catches, 791 yards and 11 receiving TDs.
TE #0 Darnell Washington (So, 6'7, 265): A tank that reminds me of a younger Mercedes Lewis. Powerful guy that can catch and has good athleticism. He's a player that could be a factor in this game.
TE #86 John FitzPatrick (RJr, 6'7, 250): Plays 30+ snaps a game because he's one of the best run blocking TE's in the country. Potential Day 3 pick.
LT #69 Jamaree Salyer (Sr, 6'4, 325): Best lineman for the Bulldogs. He’s a good athlete with strong mirroring technique. He can drive people off the ball in the run game. His NFL future is at guard, and he’s picked between Rounds 4-6.
LG #54 Justin Shaffer (RSr, 6'4, 330): Road grader in the run game and the Bulldogs will look to run behind him. He can be beat in the pass game by more athletic defenders.
C #63 Sedrick Van Pran (RFr, 6'4, 310): Played more snaps than anyone on the team and he’s been a very effective player. He rarely makes mistakes, which is impressive given that he's a freshman. Future pro prospect.
RG #50 Warren Ericson (RJr, 6'4, 305): Can play guard or center. Smart player who plays very physically.
RT #70 Warren McClendon (RSo, 6'4, 300): Only a sophomore but he's already started 23 games for the Bulldogs. He could improve his anchor, but he has solid athleticism. He's another future prospect.
DEFENSE
DE #44 Travon Walker (Jr, 6'5, 275): Great combination of size and versatility. He can win with quickness against guards and when he's on the edge he isn't a complete liability dropping into coverage. His best position is on the edge, but he'll be scheme versatile at the next level. Walker could be a strong-side DE that has a very productive career. He’ll get picked higher than his stats would indicate because of the skillset.
DT #99 Jordan Davis (Sr, 6'6, 340): Virtually impossible to single block in the run game and very difficult to run at directly. He doesn't offer much in pass rush and could do a better job getting hands up to deflect passes. However, he's a real threat to block a kick. I compare him to former Jacksonville Jaguar, John Henderson. He's likely a Round 1 selection.
DT #95 Devonte Wyatt (Sr, 6'3, 315): One of the starting defensive tackles who has plus athleticism for the position. Not a very deep DT class this year which makes him a Top 100 type player.
DT #88 Jalen Carter (So, 6'3, 310): Every time I watch a game this kid makes an explosive or disruptive play. He leads the team with 22 QBHs and tied for the most TFL with 8.5. Doesn’t have Richard Seymour’s height but has his style. He’ll be a name to know, future first-rounder.
Edge #4 Nolan Smith (Jr, 6'3, 235): Really good college football player. At the next level, I see him more as an off-the-ball LB that brings great pass rush potential. He has a very similar profile to current Patriot, Josh Uche. Based on his instincts, and athletic make-up, I think he’s selected in the first 75 picks.
LB #17 Nakobe Dean (Jr, 6'0, 225): The leader of the Georgia defense. I love this kid’s energy and physicality. His athleticism translates to the football field and he stacks the stat sheet with tackles, sacks, turnovers, etc. I am not going to say he’s going to be a Hall of Famer; this isn’t First Take, but he reminds me of Ray Lewis coming out of Miami. He doesn’t fit the traditional mold of an interior LB for the Patriots (probably better in a 4-3) but he's a player and they could use his athleticism.
LB #7 Quay Walker (Sr, 6'4, 240): He has ideal size for an NFL linebacker (6-foot-4, 240 pounds). He’s started every game and he played very well against Florida and Kentucky. Difficult evaluation with all the talent around him (they are just so dominating at so many positions) but I think he’s an early Day 3 player. That said, if a GM fell in love with the intangibles, he could go much higher.
LB #41 Channing Tindall (Sr, 6'2, 230): Has really come on this season, and he was dominating in the game against Tennessee. Those inside the program say he's the guy you want in the "dark alley". Decent size, has been productive, (58 tackles, and hits like an 18-wheeler. He’s another Day 2 selection.
CB #11 Derion Kendrick (Sr, 6'0, 190): The Clemson transfer has some off-field concerns that will need to be addressed at the NFL Combine and via draft interviews. Great size, experience, and athleticism for a corner. Given his wide receiver background you’d ideally like more INTs. He’s a top 50 talent that may fall on draft weekend.
CB #5 Kelee Ringo (So, 6'2, 205): One of the top recruits in the country in 2020. He has the ideal physical profile, but he can be boom or bust in coverage and can panic grab.
SCB #36 Latavious Brini (RSr, 6'2, 210): One of the better slot corners in the SEC. Tied for team lead with 8 PBUs. Has the size to support the run. He did not play in the SEC Championship and hurt the Bulldogs.
SS #29 Christopher Smith (Sr, 5'11, 190): Solid performer for the Bulldogs this season. He had the biggest play of the season, a pick 6 against Clemson to put Georgia ahead (neither offense scored a TD). He wasn't fully healthy against Alabama (his knee still isn't 100% according to reports) and that really hurt Georgia.
FS #16 Lewis Cine (Jr, 6'1, 210): The safety leads the team in tackles and PBU’s. He has good range and is not afraid to come up to deliver a big hit (he knocked Kyle Pitts out of a game last year). He's been playing since his freshman season and he’s consistent. Top 50 selection.
MICHIGAN
The winningest program in college football, the Michigan Wolverines, won the Big Ten for the first time in 17 years. They went 12-1 with their lone loss to rival Michigan State. It was a game they largely controlled but they lost their grip in the fourth quarter on a combination of poor execution, tough calls, and impressive plays by the Spartans. In short, it’s not a fluke that they are here.
Michigan is hitting its stride. They’ve scored 40+ points in the three straight games. They’ve been well-coached. Their OC, Josh Gattis, won the Broyles Award as the nation’s top assistant and DC Michael Macdonald (born in MA) came from the NFL (coached with Jim Harbaugh’s brother in Baltimore).
Michigan won the Joe Moore Award, given to the nation’s best offensive line. They allowed the fewest tackles for loss and third-most rushing attempts this season. They are efficient at running the ball, but they’ll have a big challenge running against Georgia’s elite front 7 (every one of those players will get a chance in the NFL).
If you’re looking for a team to root for, the Wolverines are your pick given all the local talent on their roster. Almost 20 players played their high school football in New England (see below).
OFFENSE
QB #12 Cade McNamara (Jr, 6'1, 212): Good leader who completes 64% of his passes. He had 2,470 passing yards with 15 TDs and only 4 INTs. Michigan asks him to manage the game and he does it well.
QB #9 J.J. McCarthy (Fr, 6'3, 197): Will get some plays in the game. He has good speed for a QB and can be a weapon with the zone read.
RB #25 Hassan Haskins (Sr, 6'1, 220): The bruiser for the Wolverines. He dominated Ohio State and Iowa over the last two games and he’s been the catalyst for much of the Wolverine offense (1,294 yds and 20 TDs). He’s a good depth pick that will offer special teams value (Day 3). I compared him earlier in the year to Brandon Bolden.
RB #2 Blake Corum (So, 5'8, 200): The lightning option to Haskins' thunder. He averages almost 7 YPC and has 11 TDs on the season. He can catch the ball, he's shifty, and can bust a big play.
RB #7 Donovan Edwards (Fr, 6'0, 202): The Wolverines will look to get Edwards more involved in this game. He has the talent to play at any program in the country and Michigan will need to make some individual plays beyond scheme. Edwards has that potential.
WR #6 Cornelius Johnson (Jr, 6'3, 211): Best receiver for the Wolverines and he will need to make a play or two against Georgia's corners. Leads the team with 38 catches and 609 receiving yards.
WR #5 Mike Sainristil (Jr, 5'10, 185): The Everett native is shifty with the ball in his hands. He's more of a big play threat than a consistent producer.
WR #1 Andrel Anthony (Fr, 6’2, 185): The freshman is a big play threat and averages almost 20 YPC.
Slot #14 Roman Wilson (So, 6'0, 180): Average player with 24 catches and 3 TDs.
TE #83 All Erick (Jr, 6'4, 245): He's a good player and he'll need to win some matchups for the Wolverines. He's second on the team with 34 catches. Future pro prospect.
TE #86 Luke Schoonmaker (Sr, 6'5, 250): Second TE used largely in the running game, but they will target him in the red zone. Three of his 17 catches were for TDs.
LT #76 Ryan Hayes (Sr, 6'7, 307): Good college player, Second-team All-Big Ten. Potential free agent.
LG #77 Trevor Keegan (Jr, 6'6, 324): Decent college player who has All-Conference potential next year.
C #68 Andrew Vastardis (Sr, 6'3, 294): Having a very good year and one of the better running blocking centers in the country. Likely a priority free agent due to his length. But keep in mind, current Patriots center, David Andrews, was a free agent.
RG #65 Zak Zinter (So, 6'6, 320): He's a player I love (not just because he’s a local guy). He’s big, physical, and the best future pro on the Michigan line.
RT #71 Andrew Stueber (Sr, 6'7, 338): Quick and has good athleticism which helps in pass protection. While he battles, he'll need to be a better technician at the next level. From a Patriots perspective, he’s a captain, has some position versatility and good playing experience, plus he has the size/athleticism they traditionally target in their offensive tackles. Day 3 pick.
DEFENSE
DE #97 Aidan Hutchinson (Sr, 6'6, 265): At the start of the season, I compared Hutchinson to former NFL star, Ryan Kerrigan, and highlighted him as a potential target for the Patriots. He has a mix of power, athleticism, and size but what brings it all together is his diesel motor. He rarely stops and has played well in Michigan's big games. He’s really made some money for himself this year and will be a top 3 selection.
DT #15 Chris Hinton (Jr, 6'4, 310): Highly rated recruit that can sometimes show good penetration but can be exposed.
DL #58 Mazi Smith (Jr, 6'3, 326): Best interior defender for the Wolverines. Does a good job getting his hands up to deflect passes and can anchor pretty well against the run.
Edge #55 David Ojabo (Jr, 6'5, 250): Great first step and hunts the ball (5 FF this year) reminds me of former Colt, Dwight Freeney. This has been his breakout season (11 sacks, 14 TFL), and too much future upside to get out of Day 1.
LB #12 Josh Ross (Sr, 6'2, 224): Leads the team with 95 tackles and has 8.5 TFL. Free agent signing at the next level.
LB #25 Junior Colson (Fr, 6'2, 225): Freshman that has played more as the season has progressed. Now 4th on the team in tackles with 56. Georgia may look to attack him with their tight ends.
CB #5 DJ Turner II (Jr, 6'0, 181): Played well against Ohio State and has had a pretty good season. He'll be an All-Conference player next year.
CB #4 Vincent Gray (Sr, 6'2, 192): Experienced player that contributes to all three phases of the game. He's played well in the last month of the season.
SCB #30 Daxton Hill (Jr, 6'0, 192): Potential Patriots target and he reminds me of Devin McCourty. He lines up at both corner (primarily slot) and free safety. Good in coverage, very athletic and his versatility is attractive. He’s also expected to run very fast. He’s second on the team in tackles (65) and leads the team with 2 INT & 7 PBU. Reports from down in Miami are that Hill didn’t arrive with the team and status for the game was unclear. That would be a huge loss for Michigan.
SS #2 Brad Hawkins (Sr, 6'1, 221): Team captain and a physical player who improved in coverage this year. He's having a good year with 54 tackles and 4 PBUs. How he tests and performs in the playoffs will be an important factor on his draft chart. Most likely a Round 4 selection.
FS #19 Rod Moore (Fr, 6'0, 173): Has played well for a freshman but I expect Georgia to attack up the seam and on a few deep shots. Moore will be tested.
Local Michigan Players
OT #71 Andrew Stueber from Darien, CT (played at Darien High)
OG #65 Zak Zinter from North Andover, MA (played BB&N in Cambridge)
WR #6 Cornelius Johnson Greenwich, CT (played at Brunswick School in CT)
WR #5 Mike Sainristil from Everett, MA (played at Everett High)
S #2 Brad Hawkins from Camden, NJ (played at Suffield Academy in CT)
TE Luke Schoonmaker from Hamden, CT (played at Hamden Hall Country Day)
LB #20 Kalel Mullings from West Roxbury, MA (played at Milton Academy in MA)
DB #37 Eamonn Dennis from Worcester, MA (played at St. John's Shrewsbury)
OT #51 Greg Crippen from Northborough, MA (played IMG Academy in FL)
DL #70 Jack Stewart from New Canaan, CT (played at New Canaan)
DE #42 TJ Guy from Mansfield, MA (played at Mansfield High)
OL #72 Tristan Bounds from Wallingford, CT (played at Choate Rosemary Hall)
TE #81 Louis Hansen from Needham, MA (played at St. Sebastians)
WR #30 Will Rolapp from Darien, CT (played at Suffield Academy)
DT #72 Elijah Pierre from Rockland, MA (played at Brown University and Xaverian Brothers in MA)
WR #26 Jake Thaw from Westport, CT (played at Staples High School)
WR #38 Peyton O’Leary from Byfield, MA (played at Governor’s Academy)
DE #52 Kechaun Bennett from Suffield, CT (played Suffield Academy)