This may not be a game on everyone’s radar, but it had multiple prospects who could be drafted into the 2022 NFL Draft and even make an early NFL impact, especially on the offensive side of the ball.
Trey McBride, Tight End
McBride was one of the shining stars of the game with Colorado State. The multi-sport athlete is a towering figure with top-tier athletic ability who was dangerous after the catch. A gameplan centered around getting the ball in his hands is a good call. He also was dominant as a blocker against some smaller FCS competition. If he continues playing like this, McBride will be a Top 100 pick in the 2022 NFL Draft.
Scott Patchan, EDGE
Patchan showed his size and abilities going against Aron Johnson throughout the game. Though Patchan wasn’t dominant, he knows how to use his weight and drive to get around the edge. Unfortunately, there wasn’t much support and SDSU moved plays away from him often. A player to watch moving forward.
David Bailey, Running Back
The Boston College transfer had a lot of volume but didn’t get much blocking upfront. May not have the explosiveness off the snap to make it in the NFL as anything more than a practice squad type, but should improve with him.
Pierre Strong Jr, Running Back
Strong had an excellent game blasting through the line of scrimmage and usually breaking a tackle or two along the way. He has such smooth cutting ability and excellent vision. Strong’s strength and balance are there, even if he isn’t the best athlete in short space or deep speed-wise. Though his upside may be capped a bit, he is the best small-school RB in the 2022 class and definitely has an NFL future.
Aron Johnson, Offensive Tackle
Johnson had a tough take to block Patchan and others from the LT spot, and he did an admirable job. Though he didn’t have the play strength to always match up one-on-one, his pass protection was very solid. He is a name I will continue monitoring for sure.
Michael Griffin II, Safety
Griffin showed good athletic ability in the game and jumped off the page a bit in that way for an FCS player. He struggled at times mentally in coverage and closing tackles, but there may be practice squad potential there.