Championship Weekend is loaded with exciting games and some of the best players in the country. The stakes couldn’t be higher for dozens of top NFL draft prospects as they vie for playoff spots and put their talents on display against the best teams in college football. Here’s who I’ll be watching this weekend.
Troy Franklin, Wide Receiver, Oregon v. Washington (Friday, 8 PM on ABC): The Pac-12 Championship promises to be an exciting rematch of one of this year’s best games. Oregon and Washington face off once again, two explosive offenses trading blows. While there will be a handful of great players in this game, I’m curious how Troy Franklin will continue to elevate his game against the Huskies. Franklin continues to be an excellent top option for the Ducks passing game and should see a ton of targets tonight.
Xavier Worthy, Wide Receiver, Texas v. Oklahoma (Saturday, 12 PM on ABC): Another top receiver, Xavier Worthy is a do-it-all player in the Texas offense. Yea he has the game breaking speed to take the top off of defenses, but he is also a sure handed receiver with great route running to do the dirty work as well. Texas will need it all from Worthy in what should be a thrilling rematch of the Red Rivalry Game.
Dallas Turner, Edge Defender, Alabama v. Georgia (Saturday, 3:30 PM on CBS): The SEC championship will likely be a slugfest between two extremely physical teams. Dallas Turner leads the Crimson Tide’s defensive front and will need to put pressure on the Georgia passing game to keep Alabama in the game.
Cooper DeJean, Cornerback, Iowa v. Michigan (Saturday, 8 PM on FOX): Michigan looks hard to beat right now after they outlasted Ohio State last week. The Big 10 championship will likely put points at a premium with Iowa’s stingy defense looking to slow down JJ McCarthy and company. Cooper DeJean will lead that effort on defense, locking up Michigan’s talented receivers. He will also be relied on to get some hidden yardage as a punt returner. In a game like this, a big special teams play could be the difference.
Jared Verse, Edge Defender, FSU v. Louisville (Saturday, 8 PM on ABC): FSU is still in playoff contention as they remain undefeated on the year. Jordan Travis’s absence is hard to swallow, but the committee can’t keep them out of the postseason as long as their record is spotless. Louisville is a formidable opponent in this ACC title game and the Cardinals offense has difference makers all over. Jared Verse needs a huge game rushing the passer and limiting Louisville’s running game in order to help FSU improve to 13-0.
