A game between two disappointing clubs has several NFL prospects who could tempt the New York Giants in the 2014 NFL draft.
From Miami, Stephen Morris is an intriguing quarterback prospect. He's athletic and is capable of making some amazing throws. Unfortunately, his decision making has been, err, "questionable" at times and his accuracy is somewhat erratic. Still, I believe he is a high upside developmental quarterback for some team in the NFL.
The best Miami prospect is middle linebacker Denzel Perryman, who has great range and is extremely intelligent. He is a good run defender and is a natural leader in the teeth of that Hurricane defense. However, his athleticism is questionable when compared to the elite players at the position. Still, he demands attention due to his explosive, aggressive style and closing speed. He is certainly capable of being a three-down linebacker at the NFL level. Compares to Kevin Minter or Jon Bostic from last year.
Two mid- to late-round Miami prospects include offensive tackle Seantrel Henderson and guard Malcolm Bunche, for very different reasons. Henderson is about as talented as any offensive line prospect in the draft, but he has had a laundry list of character red flags. He will have to prove that he has matured in order to get drafted at all, but the team that does could be in for a pleasant surprise. Bunche is athletically limited but he has strong technique and a nice base. I envision him as a fourth- to fifth-round prospect with backup talent with spot starter upside in much the same way as Kevin Boothe.
Louisville has, of course, Teddy Bridgewater. He is possibly the top overall pick, showing poise under pressure, excellent accuracy, strong athleticism, and quick decision making. Arm strength is possibly the only knock I've got against him, but even then, that's not below average. NFL comparison is a very slightly poor man's Aaron Rodgers. Plays the same way.
Wide receiver DeVante Parker is a smooth route runner who has strong hands. He can burn you deep and can make all the cuts. His stock is definitely rising. He's a big target at 6-foot-3, 212 pounds and certainly should be on the Giants' radar.
The last Louisville players that are on my radar are SS Calvin Pryor and FS Hakeem Smith. The 6-2, 210-pound Pryor and 6-1, 180-pound Smith gave Louisville possibly the second-strongest safety tandem in college football (behind Alabama's duo). Both are strong players in the backfield and warrant watching. They are likely third-round players.
Game Details
Teams: Louisville Cardinals vs. Miami Hurricanes
Game Time: Saturday, Dec. 28th 6:45 p.m. ET
TV: ESPN