College football bowl season kicked off Friday, Dec. 17 and ends tonight with the College Football Playoffs. Few teams have produced the same level of professional talent as Georgia and Alabama in recent years. More of that natural athletic ability will be on display Monday and CBSSports.com has the insight into who to watch.
Monday, Jan. 10
College Football Playoff National Championship
No. 3 Georgia vs. No. 1 Alabama (8 p.m. ET on ESPN)
Georgia running back James Cook, the brother of Vikings' Dalvin Cook, has joined Zamir White as draftable options at the position. Cook was very impactful in the semifinal against Michigan. Wide receiver George Pickens is a big downfield threat that can also be used in jump-ball situations in the end zone. The bulk of the Bulldogs' professional prospects are found on defense.
Along the front seven, Kirby Smart's team boats defensive lineman Travon Walker, Devonte Wyatt and Jordan Davis. Davis is a mammoth run-stuffer that does have a bit of pass rushing potential to offer. He and Walker have been labeled as potential first-round picks. The linebacker group featuring Quay Walker, Channing Tindall and Nakobe Dean is the best in the nation. Dean gets all of the attention and hype but Walker has the size and freakish athleticism that could eventually allow him to join his teammate in first-round conversation. Cornerback Derion Kendrick, a Clemson transfer, has the athletic ability to be in that next group of cornerbacks behind Stingley.
Alabama is loaded on both sides of the ball. Wide receiver Jameson Williams, an Ohio State transfer, has the best chance to surpass former Buckeye teammate Garrett Wilson as the first wide receiver selected. Unfortunately, wide receiver John Metchie III was lost for the season due to injury. Gardner and Williams could be an entertaining matchup. It could also be a big day for tight ends Jahleel Billingsley and Cameron Latu. Offensive tackle Evan Neal is a rare prospect with his combination of size and athleticism. For those reasons and more, the Florida native is often noted as a top 10 overall pick.
On the defensive side of the ball, the Crimson Tide have a pair of NFL prospects at linebacker: Christian Harris and Henry To'oTo'o. While Harris began the pre-draft process as a first round pick, To'oTo'o has eclipsed his teammate in my personal rankings. From Dylan Moses to Mack Wilson, Alabama often has a linebacker among first round projections early in the season but it seldom plays out that way. Safety Jordan Battle is another that finds himself in first-round projections. Safety Jordan Battle is also among the best at his position.
Previous Bowls
Tuesday, Jan. 4
Texas Bowl
LSU 20, Kansas State 42 (Recap)
Since parting ways with head coach Ed Orgeron and hiring Brian Kelly, LSU has been a team in transition. Cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. is considered to be the best available at his position but he has not played since September. The Tigers are sending defensive lineman Neil Farrell Jr., linebacker Damone Clark and interior offensive lineman Ed Ingram to the Reese's Senior Bowl.
Fans often hear of an offensive lineman that plays with a mean streak. Kansas State's Cooper Beebe embodies that description. He brings a physicality to the table for the Wildcats. Only a sophomore, the Kansas native has time before he has to make a decision on his professional future.
Saturday, Jan. 1
Outback Bowl
Penn State 10, No. 21 Arkansas 24 (Recap)
The Nittany Lions landed Temple's Arnold Ebiketie in the offseason. Ebiketie has done as much for his stock as any other player in the country. It is a position group that is wide open beyond the top three: Oregon's Kayvon Thibodeaux, Michigan's Aidan Hutchinson and Purdue's George Karlaftis. Ebiketie fits into that second tier. Jaquan Brisker has established himself as one of the best senior safeties in the nation. Linebacker Brandon Smith has great size and athleticism but production has not met expectations. Cornerback Tariq Castro-Fields is another NFL prospect.
Wide receiver Jahan Dotson is one of the best in the nation. He is a fast player that has shown an ability to win at all three levels this season. Offensive tackle Rasheed Walker is not the first round pick that many considered early in the year but he still has an NFL future.
Arkansas center Ricky Stromberg and safety Jalen Catalon made the decision to return to school. Wide receiver Treylon Burks is a rare combination of size and play-making ability. Burks has spent a lot of time in the slot and his blocking potential could be an enticing option for a wide zone prevalent scheme in the first round. Defensive tackle John Ridgeway III is headed to the Reese's Senior Bowl. He is a wide body with limited pass rush potential.
Vrbo Citrus Bowl
No. 15 Iowa 17, No. 22 Kentucky 20 (Recap)
Iowa is led by the best offensive lineman in the nation: center Tyler Linderbaum. Linderbaum has great athleticism but is also going to finish plays with physicality. The ex-wrestler is comfortably a top 10 talent in this draft class. Tight end Sam LaPorta acquits himself well as a blocker and has better receiving ability than he has been empowered to display.
Cornerback Riley Moss has accepted an invitation to the Reese's Senior Bowl. The Iowa native has had at least two interceptions each of his four seasons.
Wide receiver Wan'Dale Robinson transferred from Nebraska to Lexington to play in offensive coordinator Liam Coen's pass-happy scheme. Robinson was one of the most productive pass catchers in the SEC last season. Traditionally sized to play in the slot, the Kentucky native showed an ability to win at all three levels. The league went on a shopping spree for smaller, faster wide receivers on Day 2 of the 2021 NFL Draft. Offensive tackles Dare Rosenthal and Darian Kinnard, center Luke Fortner were integral in the success of physical running back Chris Rodriguez. Fortner moved over from offensive guard after Drake Jackson moved on to the NFL.
Defensive lineman Josh Paschal is a bit of a tweener by traditional standards but there is a place for him in the modern NFL. He has a non-stop motor. Defensive tackle Marquan McCall is primarily a nose tackle with some pass rush potential. He is a good option for teams that do not land Georgia's Jordan Davis. Defensive back Yusuf Corker is headed to Reese's Senior Bowl.
PlayStation Fiesta Bowl
No. 5 Notre Dame 35, No. 9 Oklahoma State 37 (Recap)
Notre Dame running back Kyren Williams does not have ideal size for an NFL running back but that should not exclude him from the discussion of best running back prospect. He is a three down back that can contribute in the pass game. The decisions to return to school for Minnesota's John Michael Schmitz and Arkansas' Ricky Stromberg directly impacts Fighting Irish center Jarrett Patterson, who promises to be one of the best prospects available at the position.
Safety Kyle Hamilton opted out of the bowl game after dealing with an injury late in the season. Hamilton is in the conversation for best prospect regardless of position. He is another one of those overhang linebackers that can drop into coverage or play downhill. Notre Dame's defensive line features two future NFL players in defensive tackle Myron Tagovailoa-Amosa (cousin of Tua Tagovailoa) and edge rusher Isaiah Foskey.
The play of Oklahoma State quarterback Spencer Sanders is a rollercoaster ride. He is throwing two touchdowns for every one interception, but averaging 4.2 yards per carry, which makes him the team's second leading rusher. Safety Kolby Harvell-Peel has been highly productive, accumulating 10 interceptions over the last three seasons. Wide receiver Tay Martin has a good chance to to 1,000 total receiving yards this season. He needs just 58 yards. Martin, who stepped in for Tylan Wallace, is a tall, slender receiver.
Rose Bowl Game Presented by Capital One Venture X
No. 6 Ohio State 48, No. 11 Utah 45 (Recap)
Ohio State wide receivers Garrett Wilson and Chris Olave are the cream of the crop. They are certainly two of the top five prospects at their position and they might be the two best. Wilson has insane body control and post-catch play-making ability. Olave is Mr. Consistent and a magnet for throws in the red zone. Tight end Jeremy Ruckert is one of the better blocking tight ends in college football. Offensive linemen Nicholas Petit-Frere, Thayer Munford and Dawand Jones should all hear their names called regardless of when they decide to leave for the league.
Defensive tackle Haskell Garrett and edge rusher Tyreke Smith have accepted Reese's Senior Bowl invitations. The other piece to that defensive line, Zach Harrison, was a highly-regarded high school recruit.
Few teams were playing as well as Utah at season's end. Linebacker Devin Lloyd, who I have favorably compared to Fred Warner, is my top linebacker prospect and a surefire first round choice. Edge rusher Mike Tafua and linebacker Nephi Sewell have made their intentions of leaving for the NFL known. Offensive guard Nick Ford is another Ute of note.
Allstate Sugar Bowl
No. 8 Ole Miss 7, No. 7 Baylor 21 (Recap)
Ole Miss quarterback Matt Corral has shown improved decision-making an accuracy in his second season under head coach Lane Kiffin. Despite an offense that relies upon getting the ball out quickly, Corral has shown an ability to push the ball to all three levels. Wide receiver Dontario Drummond has been a big play threat all season. Offensive tackle Nick Broeker was in most first-round pre-season projections but his season did not live up that billing. His future is still paved for the NFL, however. Running back Jerrion Ealy is one of the most explosive prospects in college football.
On defense, the Rebels have edge rusher Sam Williams and safety A.J. Finley. Williams was fifth in college football with 12.5 sacks. He was eighth in forced fumbles. Combined with his size, there is a good chance he is headed for Day 2.
Baylor has a two-headed rushing attack with Trestan Ebner and Abram Smith. The latter is headed to the Reese's Senior Bowl. Both are of similar size and have been very productive for the Big XII champion Bears. Safety Jalen Pitre is one of the most exciting defenders in college football. He has good size and can drop in coverage or play down in the box. He is a likely Day 2 choice. Linebacker Terrel Bernard, along with Pitre, is also headed to the Reese's Senior Bowl. Bernard is a modern day NFL linebacker that glides around the field. He has contributed at least 3.5 sacks each of the past three seasons. The most recent campaign was his first without an interception. Few coaches were as impressive as Baylor's Dave Aranda this season.
Friday, Dec. 31
TaxSlayer Gator Bowl
No. 17 Wake Forest vs. Rutgers (Recap)
Wake Forest wide receiver Jaquarii Roberson has good range and great body control. He averaged 15.2 yards per reception this season in the absence of Donovan Greene. The Demon Deacons offense allowed for their skill players to make plays after the catch. Offensive tackle Zach Tom reminds a bit of Christian Darrisaw in the sense that he never panics into pass protection. He has a strong upper body and an acceptable arm length to fend off defenders. Cornerback Ja'Sir Taylor has a slight frame but is a smooth athlete that breaks hard on the ball. Taylor has been effective playing in the slot.
Rutgers wide receiver Bo Melton has been efficient over the last four years. Melton is headed to the Reese's Senior Bowl. He fights through his routes and is not afraid to make a contested catch. The New Jersey native shows good speed and some agility in space. Cornerback Avery Young is a physical player that is not afraid to mix things up. He has tremendous versatility playing man and zone coverage with exposure to the field and boundary.
Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl
Washington State vs. Central Michigan (Recap)
Washington State defensive back Jaylen Watson and offensive tackle Abraham Lucas are headed to the Reese's Senior Bowl. Watson, a former USC signee, has great length and good ball production in 2021. Running back Max Borghi has been a dual-threat skill player for the Cougars. Early in his career, under the direction of Air Raid aficionado Mike Leach, he was catching passes at a high rate. In 2021, he recorded the best rushing numbers of his career.
Central Michigan offensive tackle Bernhard Raimann has great athleticism and his technique is improving. As a former tight end, he has only been playing the position for a few years. The Austrian will be 25-years-old shortly after the season begins but that has not stopped many from including him in first-round projections. Offensive tackle Luke Goedeke projects inside and that transition could begin in January at the Reese's Senior Bowl next to Raimann. Cornerback Dishon McNary showed enough speed to mirror D'Wayne Eskridge last year. He has good size but limited ball production.
College Football Playoff Semifinal: Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic
No. 4 Cincinnati vs. No. 1 Alabama (Recap)
A half dozen Bearcats have already pledged the Reese's Senior Bowl: cornerback Coby Bryant, safety Bryan Cook, edge rusher Myjai Sanders, quarterback Desmond Ridder, linebacker Darrian Beavers and wide receiver Alec Pierce. Ridder is one of the quarterbacks most often mentioned as possibly joining the first round contenders. He can throw with great touch and drive the ball at times but it has been inconsistent. His receiver, Pierce, is part of a talented assembly of potential Day 2 options.
Cincinnati cornerback Ahmad 'Sauce' Gardner has been stingy in coverage this season. Gardner is almost a unanimous inclusion in first round mock drafts. LSU's Derek Stingley Jr. is widely-regarded as the top prospect at his position but the Bearcat has himself firmly entrenched in the debate for No. 2.
Alabama is loaded on both sides of the ball. Wide receiver Jameson Williams, an Ohio State transfer, has the best chance to surpass former Buckeye teammate Garrett Wilson as the first wide receiver selected. Unfortunately, wide receiver John Metchie III was lost for the season due to injury. Gardner and Williams could be an entertaining matchup. It could also be a big day for tight ends Jahleel Billingsley and Cameron Latu. Offensive tackle Evan Neal is a rare prospect with his combination of size and athleticism. For those reasons and more, the Florida native is often noted as a top 10 overall pick.
On the defensive side of the ball, the Crimson Tide have a pair of NFL prospects at linebacker: Christian Harris and Henry To'oTo'o. While Harris began the pre-draft process as a first round pick, To'oTo'o has eclipsed his teammate in my personal rankings. From Dylan Moses to Mack Wilson, Alabama often has a linebacker among first round projections early in the season but it seldom plays out that way. Safety Jordan Battle is another that finds himself in first round projections.
I'll save a little meat on the bone in the event that the Crimson Tide advance to the College Football Playoffs Finals.
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College Football Playoff Semifinal: Capital One Orange Bowl
No. 3 Georgia vs. No. 2 Michigan (Recap)
Georgia running back James Cook, the brother of Vikings' Dalvin Cook, has joined Zamir White as draftable options at the position. Wide receiver George Pickens is a big downfield threat that can also be used in jump ball situations in the end zone. The bulk of the Bulldog's professional prospects are found on defense.
Along the front seven, Kirby Smart's team boats defensive lineman Travon Walker, Devonte Wyatt and Jordan Davis. Davis is a mammoth run-stuffer that does have a bit of pass rushing potential to offer. He and Walker have been labeled as potential first round picks. The linebacker group featuring Quay Walker, Channing Tindall and Nakobe Dean is the best in the nation. Dean gets all of the attention and hype but Walker has the size and freakish athleticism that could eventually allow him to join his teammate in first round conversation. Cornerback Derion Kendrick, a Clemson transfer, has the athletic ability to be in that next group of cornerbacks behind Stingley.
Most fans became familiar with Michigan's offensive line in that snowy affair with Ohio State. The hard-nosed group, led by Ryan Hayes and Andrew Steuber, set the tone early and often against that flashy Ohio State front and opened big holes for running back Hassan Haskins.
The Wolverines have two potential first-round edge rushers in Aidan Hutchinson and David Ojabo. Ojabo is an ascending prospect with as much bend around the corner as any prospect in this class. Hutchinson is the relentless, physical pass rusher that bullies blockers and engulfs quarterbacks. The presence of both prevents opposing teams from throwing double teams in either direction. Linebacker Josh Ross and safety Brad Hawkins are a few prospects that should hear their names called in April. Finally, do-it-all defensive back Daxton Hill could warrant first-round consideration. He was involved in a back and forth recruiting battle between Michigan and Alabama that ultimately saw the Wolverines win out. Hill can impact passing lanes or drop into the box to make plays.
CBS Sports experts offer insight into the betting odds and provide predictions for the College Football Playoffs!
Thursday, Dec. 30
Duke's Mayo Bowl
North Carolina 21, South Carolina 38 (Recap)
North Carolina quarterback Sam Howell shows strong leadership skills. He is a gritty passer with average mobility. Howell's accuracy was very spotty this season and many are wondering if he needs a strong supporting cast to be successful.
Linebacker Jeremiah Gemmel is headed to the Reese's Senior Bowl. His teammate and Vikings third-round pick Chazz Surratt received all of the notoriety last season but Gemmel has good eyes. His communication skills have been tested and approved.
South Carolina boats edge rusher Kingsley Enagbare, who is also headed to the Reese's Senior Bowl. Enagbare is a name that often gets tossed around in first round conversation as one of the top pass rushers. Defensive tackle Zacch Pickens and edge rusher Jordan Strachan entered the campaign with significant fanfare but that did not play out as anticipated. Running back ZaQuandre White has already declared for the draft while his running mate, Kevin Harris, also has an NFL future.
TransPerfect Music City Bowl
Tennessee 45, Purdue 48 (Recap)
Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker is returning for another season to build upon an already stable foundation in Knoxville. Hooker gave that offense a boost upon entering the starting lineup. Wide receiver Cedrick Tillman is returning as well, while Velus Jones Jr. is onto professional pursuits. Jones, a USC transfer, delivered some big plays for the Volunteers, in addition to return capabilities. The league showed a desire for quicker wide receivers that can create yards after the catch in 2021 and Jones fits the criteria. Cornerback Alontae Taylor and offensive guard Cade Mays are potential top 100 picks. Mays is still waffling on his decision. Taylor has already committed to the Reese's Senior Bowl.
Purdue's George Karlaftis is a heavy-handed pass rusher that fights through chips and double teams. He fights through blocks to create pressure at an impressive rate. Karlaftis deserves to be mentioned in the same stratosphere as Michigan's Aidan Hutchinson. Wide receiver David Bell has great size. He has good body control and shows great range to make catches outside of his frame.
Chick-Fil-A Peach Bowl
No. 10 Michigan State 31, No. 12 Pittsburgh 21 (Recap)
Michigan State had a storybook season in Mel Tucker's second season. Running back Kenneth Walker III put together a Heisman-worthy season and has forcefully entered his name into the discussion for first running back off the board. Walker showed a lot more agility post-Wake Forest. Fullback Connor Heyward has worn many hats for the Spartans over the years. The younger brother of Steelers defensive lineman Cam Heyward is headed to the Reese's Senior Bowl. Wide receivers Jalen Nailor and Jayden Reed compiled 84 receptions for 1,533 yards and 14 touchdowns.
Defensive lineman Jacub Panasiuk is a smart player that knows how to exploit the opponent. He is not quick twitch but shows a variety of moves to apply pressure.
Pittsburgh quarterback Kenny Pickett has done as much as anyone to improve his stock from last year to this season. He will likely not get a first-round grade from me but he will almost certainly be one of the first quarterbacks selected in April. Offensive lineman Carter Warren is returning to the Steel City so that leaves cornerback Damarri Mathis as the program's top prospect outside of Pickett. Long snapper Cal Adomitis and Mathis are headed to the Reese's Senior Bowl.
SRS Distribution Las Vegas Bowl
Wisconsin 20, Arizona State 13 (Recap)
Wisconsin tight end Jake Ferguson is headed to the Reese's Senior Bowl. Ferguson has soft hands and blocks with good leverage. Logan Bruss projects an interior player despite playing right tackle this season. Bruss has disciplined eyes and does a good job of flashing hands at varying rates.
Defensive tackle Keeanu Benton is one of the top prospects at Camp Randall but he has elected to return for another season. Linebackers Jack Sanborn and Leo Chenal are a physical pair that have spots in the NFL.
The left side of Arizona State's offensive line has been underappreciated this season Offensive tackle Kellen Diesch and offensive guard Dohnovan West pave the way for big play running back Rachaad White. Herm Edwards' defense is loaded with NFL prospects. The secondary features safety Evan Fields and cornerbacks Jack Jones, Chase Lucas. Jones began his career at USC and is now finishing up his sixth season of college football.
Wednesday, Dec. 29
New Era Pinstripe Bowl
Maryland 54, Virginia Tech 10 (Recap)
The Terrapins should have one of the best receiver rooms in the country next season with Dontay Demus Jr. and Rakim Jarrett returning, plus the addition of Florida transfer Jacob Copeland. Led by Taulia Tagovailoa, Maryland could have a formidable offense next season. Offensive tackle Jaelyn Duncan was a highly regarded recruit with immense athletic upside. Coming into the year, he had some oversetting issues to correct. Safety Nick Cross has stuffed the stat sheet over the course of his career. He has accumulated six interceptions, three sacks and two forced fumbles.
Virginia Tech's Amare Barno is a long pass rusher with limited production. Scouts have been intrigued with his capabilities, and he has the opportunity to showcase them in Mobile in January. Interior offensive lineman Lecitus Smith and wide receiver Tre Turner are also headed to the Senior Bowl. Turner is a slender-framed wide receiver. Virginia Tech's pass catchers did a really good job of committing as blockers. The Hokies lost wide receiver Tayvion Robinson in the transfer portal. He is a competitive prospect who attacks the ball in the air. Robinson could really break out at Kentucky in a similar role that Wan'Dale Robinson thrived in this season.
Cheez-It Bowl
No. 19 Clemson 20, Iowa State 13 (Recap)
The Clemson cornerback tandem of Mario Goodrich and Andrew Booth Jr. made life difficult for opposing offenses. Booth is regarded as one of the best at his position, while Goodrich has accepted an invitation to compete at the Senior Bowl.
Wide receivers Ajou Ajou and Frank Ladson have entered the transfer portal since the regular season concluded. Justyn Ross has made the announcement that he is off to the NFL after two seasons hampered by injury. Joe Ngata should be the team's leading receiver next season assuming he returns. Ngata is only scratching the surface of what he could become.
Iowa State running back Breece Hall is regarded as one of the best at his position, though he'll miss this game after declaring for the NFL draft. The tight end class lacks a bonafide first-round option, but it is a really deep group that features Charlie Kolar of the Cyclones. He finished this season with 58 receptions for 723 yards and five touchdowns. Kicker Andrew Mevis and linebacker Mike Rose are headed to the Senior Bowl.
Valero Alamo Bowl
No. 14 Oregon 32, No. 16 Oklahoma 47 (Recap)
Oregon will be without wide receiver Devon Williams, edge rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux and cornerback Mykael Wright - all of whom have opted out of the game and declared for the NFL Draft. Running back CJ Verdell and wide receivers Johnny Johnson III and Jaylon Redd are out due to injury. Wide receiver Mycah Pittman and cornerback DJ James are among those to transfer since Mario Cristobal departed for Coral Gables. The roster is a shell of itself. Safety Verone McKinley III is the best prospect playing for the Ducks. He has shown a lot of versatility in coverage and making plays downhill.
The Sooners will be well-represented in Mobile with defensive tackle Perrion Winfrey, fullback Jeremiah Hall, linebacker Brian Asamoah II and interior offensive lineman Marquis Hayes. Asamoah is a fluid athlete that gets up to speed quickly. Defensive lineman Isaiah Thomas has shown the versatility to play on the edge or kick inside depending upon the situation. He is a heavy-handed prospect that is able to get off blocks. Quarterback Spencer Rattler and tight end Austin Stogner have declared they are transferring to South Carolina.
Tuesday, Dec. 28
TicketSmarter Birmingham Bowl
No. 20 Houston 17, Auburn 13 (Recap)
Houston defensive lineman Logan Hall is long, similar to his former teammate, Payton Turner, who was taken in the first round. Hall is further along in his development than Turner at the same stage. While watching Hall, edge rusher David Anenih kept flashing. Anenih is not the prototypical edge rusher but his production led to an invitation to the Shrine Bowl. Do-it-all cornerback Marcus Jones has announced that he is sitting this one out. He has extensive experience on special teams and plays bigger than his size.
Auburn cornerback Roger McCreary is an incredibly competitive cornerback. He has versatility playing in zone and man coverage. His athletic traits may not match up with some of the other top prospects in the class but teams know what they are buying and McCreary has the goods to be successful. Defensive lineman Colby Wooden is traditionally a bit of a tweener but he has a three-down role in the modern NFL. Linebacker Zakoby McClain and safety Smoke Monday are a few other Tiger prospects of note.
SERVPro First Responder Bowl
Air Force 31, Louisville 28 (Recap)
Air Force defensive tackle Jordan Jackson has great size as an interior rusher. He managed seven sacks this season. Military obligations often make for tricky professional projections, however.
Coming into the year, Louisville linebacker Monty Montgomery and cornerback Kei'Trel Clark were both on my radar but the season ended prematurely for each of them due to knee injuries. The Cardinals largely imported their secondary with Clark (a Liberty transfer), Georgia State safety transfer Kenderick Duncan and Alcorn State safety Qwynterrio Cole. Duncan and Cole are physical enforcers across the middle with great size.
San Diego County Credit Union Holiday Bowl
UCLA vs. No. 18 NC State (Cancelled)
UCLA's offense is loaded with offensive ability. It begins with dual-threat quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson. Running back Zach Charbonnet -- a Michigan transfer -- is patient and displays great balance. Tight end Greg Dulcich can become more physical through his routes but does a nice job of attacking zones. Offensive tackle Sean Rhyan is a controlled blocker that finishes with vigor. He shows great strength and average athletic competency.
On the defensive side of the ball, the Bruins have defensive tackle Otito Ogbonnia and linebacker Mitchell Agude.
N.C. State offensive tackle Ikem Ekwonu is a monster in the ground game that has shown steady improvement in pass protection. Although his highest potential would be reached by sliding inside, Ekwonu has the capability of playing on the edge. With a shortage of quality offensive tackles league-wide, teams can ill afford to move quality options elsewhere. Running back Zonovan Knight is a natural runner that fights through contact. He is perfectly competent as a pass catcher.
AutoZone Liberty Bowl
Mississippi State 7, Texas Tech 34 (Recap)
Mississippi State offensive tackle Charles Cross struggled with his balance last season as he lunged outside of his frame. The sophomore still has some issues with oversetting but shows speed to succeed on the edge and does a good job of adjusting his hands once engaged. Cross has elevated himself into the conversation as one of the first offensive tackles off the board. Cornerback Martin Emerson is a long player but ball production is a concern. He has not recorded an interception since 2019.
Texas Tech wide receiver Erik Ezukanma piqued my interest pre-season. He has great size and an ability to pick up speed effortlessly. His breaks and route-running can improve but the natural athletic gifts are there. Texas wide receiver transfer Joshua Moore recently announced that he would continue his playing career at Texas Tech so that will be a fun duo to watch next year.
Guaranteed Rate Bowl
West Virginia 6, Minnesota 18 (Recap)
West Virginia defensive lineman Dante Stills returned to Morgantown after a relatively disappointing 2020 campaign. He is neither a defensive end nor defensive tackle traditionally speaking, but teams might find him of interest as they search for interior pass rush help. Running back Leddie Brown has been incredibly productive. Brown looks comfortable catching passes and has a natural gate.
Minnesota center John Michael Schmitz elected to return to school after an impressive season. Offensive tackle Daniel Faalele and edge rushers Boye Mafe, Esezi Otomewo have made the decision to move on to other pursuits. All three are slated to take part in the Senior Bowl. Faalele is a massive human being from Australia. He has been pegged as a Day 2 pick dating back to last season. Mafe has some juice around the corner.
Monday, Dec. 27
Quick Lane Bowl
Western Michigan 52, Nevada 24 (Recap)
Western Michigan quarterback Kaleb Eleby is an inconsistent passer with good mobility. He is able to drive the ball to all levels of the field. Edge rusher Ali Fayad does not have the length that NFL teams covet at the position but he was one of the most productive defenders in college football this season. He registered 11.5 sacks and two forced fumbles.
Nevada is loaded on offense and the names have been bandied about since the summer. Quarterback Carson Strong is large in stature but lacks mobility. He will have to be an excellent passer to overcome those limitations. He announced that he will skip the bowl game. Tight end Cole Turner is a former wide receiver that plays outside of his frame and attacks the football. He has a claim as one of the best tight ends in this draft class. Wide receiver Romeo Doubs is a good short to intermediate route-runner with an ability to create after the catch. The Wolfpack have a quality pair of offensive linemen in offensive tackle Aaron Frost and center Tyler Orsini.
Military Bowl presented by Peraton
Boston College vs. East Carolina (Cancelled)
Boston College wide receiver Zay Flowers has already announced that he is returning for another season. He had a down campaign after asserting himself as one of the most dynamic skill players after the catch in 2020. Quarterback Phil Jurkovec has also announced that he is returning. The Eagles have leaned on its offensive line over the past few years. Offensive guard Zion Johnson has established himself as one of the best interior prospects in this class. He can do a better job of sinking his hips and absorbing contact.
East Carolina cornerback Ja'Quan McMillian is just a sophomore but he was second among all FBS players with five interceptions. He had seven interceptions over the prior two seasons. Left tackle Justin Chase was in his second season since transferring from N.C. State. He played in the absence of D'Ante Smith, who was drafted in the fourth-round by the Bengals, last season before taking on the role of full-time starter this year.
Saturday, Dec. 25
TaxAct Camellia Bowl
Georgia State 51, Ball State 20 (Recap)
Georgia State sophomore safety Antavious Lane has made big plays for the Panthers this season. He has recorded four interceptions and one forced fumble. All-conference offensive guard Shamarious Gilmore is one of the most experienced prospects in college football.
Ball State quarterback Drew Plitt has good size but average mobility. The Ohio native has been a a three-year plus starter and shows touch in the short to intermediate. Senior wide receivers Justin Hall and Yo'Heinz Tyler have been highly productive players in that Ball State offense. Hall has compiled 318 receptions, 3,385 receiving yards and 18 touchdowns in five seasons. In addition, he has presented his versatility through exposure to the run and return games.
Friday, Dec. 24
EasyPost Hawai'i Bowl
Memphis vs. Hawaii (Cancelled)
Wide receiver Calvin Austin III and offensive guard Dylan Parham will represent Memphis at the Senior Bowl. Austin is an undersized but explosive wide receiver who has topped 1,000 receiving yards each of the past two seasons. Over the course of his career at Memphis, he has averaged 16.3 yards per reception. Parham has disciplined eyes trained to stop loopers and jumpers.
Hawaii running back Calvin Turner Jr. began his collegiate career as a triple-option quarterback at Jacksonville before transferring. Last year, Memphis had a running back by the name of Kenny Gainwell who also spent a lot of time at wide receiver. Turner is a little taller but has similar versatility. Turner had the same number of carries as he did receptions (73). He accumulated roughly 1,200 all-purpose yards.
Thursday, Dec. 23
Frisco Football Classic
North Texas 14, Miami (Ohio) 27 (Recap)
North Texas' Dion Novil is a big interior defender with respectable pass rush production this season. Wide receiver Jyaire Shorter has battled injuries over the past few seasons but is certainly one to watch in the future.
Miami (Ohio) safety Sterling Weatherford and edge rusher Dominique Robinson are headed to the Senior Bowl. Robinson looks light playing as a down edge rusher. He shows good speed and flexibility around the edge but needs to get stronger to hold his own in the run game.
The CBS Sports college football staff offered more analysis from a betting perspective and explained how each team can achieve success.
Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl
UCF 29, Florida 17 (Recap)
UCF offensive tackle Marcus Tatum is a really athletic lineman with an athletic frame. The Tennessee transfer gets a little off-balance in the run game and can improve marrying his hands and feet. Defensive tackle Kalia Davis shows first-step quickness and a good understanding of leverage.
The Gators made the change from head coach Dan Mullen to Billy Napier after the regular concluded in an effort to salvage their recruiting class. Several players entered the transfer portal, but others will represent Florida in the draft process. Defensive lineman Zachary Carter, edge rusher Jeremiah Moon and running back Dameon Pierce are headed to the Senior Bowl. Pierce was a highly productive player this season. Carter is a bit of a tweener traditionally, but that is a coveted role in the league today. Cornerback Kaiir Elam is often mentioned among the best at his position.
Wednesday, Dec. 22
Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl
Army 24, Missouri 22 (Recap)
Tulsa cornerback transfers Akayleb Evans and Allie Green IV made a big impact for Missouri this season. Evans is a physical player and quarterbacks proceeded at their own risk when making throws to the field. He is headed to the Reese's Senior Bowl despite limited ball production. Defensive tackle Kobie Whiteside had 7.5 sacks in 2019 but has just three in his four other combined seasons. He has to do a better job of holding his gaps because that would seem to be his bread and butter on the next level. Running back Tyler Badie is undersized but otherwise checks all of the boxes. The Tennessee native is a good receiver and fights through contact.
Army linebacker Andre Carter II is a tall drink of water. At 6-foot-7, the Texas native is second among FBS programs in sacks (14.5) and tied for eighth in forced fumbles (4).
Tuesday, Dec. 21
Tropical Smoothie Cafe Frisco Bowl
No. 24 San Diego State 38, UTSA 24 (Recap)
Two Roadrunners are headed to Mobile, Alabama, next month for the Reese's Senior Bowl. Offensive tackle Spencer Burford and cornerback Tariq Woolen will participate in college football's premier professional showcase. Woolen is a lengthy cornerback with limited ball production. He can do a better job of getting his eyes back to the quarterback but his long speed allows him to mirror receivers and recover rather quickly. Safety Rashad Wisdom is undersized but does not play like it. He is a physical player with great range.
San Diego State defensive lineman Cam Thomas has great size and strength. Over the past year, he has improved to the point where some consider him a potential Day 2 draft choice. He registered 10.5 sacks this season. Tight end Daniel Bellinger is also headed to the Reese's Senior Bowl. Bellinger can get stronger but he shows an ability to make catches outside of his frame. Running back Greg Bell has good burst and fights through contact. He can improve in pass protection.
Famous Idaho Potato Bowl
Wyoming 52, Kent State 38 (Recap)
Kent State quarterback Dustin Crum is a three-year starter for the Golden Flashes. The dual-threat senior from Grafton, Ohio, accounted for 27 total touchdowns this season relative to six interceptions. He is one to watch on Day 3. Wyoming produced linebacker Logan Wilson a few years ago and the Cowboys are back with a key front seven contributor. Linebacker Chad Muma is headed to the Reese's Senior Bowl. Muma has natural movement skills and is able to change directions with ease. He has the traits necessary to be a starter in the NFL.
Monday, Dec. 20
Myrtle Beach Bowl presented by TaxAct
Tulsa 30, Old Dominion 17 (Recap)
Tulsa has a few prospects of note, particularly along the offensive line. Sophomore left tackle Tyler Smith was the recipient of a lot of praise in the preseason, but it was his teammate, right tackle Chris Paul, who recently accepted an invitation to the Senior Bowl. Paul, like Louisiana's Robert Hunt a few years ago, plays on the edge but is projected to move inside. Speed gives him a lot of problems around the corner, but he has good strength to counter bull rushes. Moving inside should correct some of the oversetting issues he has encountered. A Day 2 selection is within range.
Saturday, Dec. 18
R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl
No. 23 Louisiana 36, Marshall 21 (Recap)
Billy Napier accepted the head coaching position at Florida, but that program will produce a few more pros on his way out the door. Offensive lineman Robert Hunt was taken in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft. The Ragin' Cajuns have a few more offensive linemen coming down the pike. Offensive tackle Max Mitchell is off to the Senior Bowl. Mitchell is a long lineman with good mobility. His neighbor, offensive guard O'Cyrus Torrence, is an NFL caliber player. When the 2020 season began, he was trying to run through defenders rather than engage and marry his feet. As the year progressed, his technique improved. Torrence is a player who looks for work when disengaged and plays to the whistle.
Tayland Humphrey is a big, imposing interior defender. The safety tandem of Percy Butler and Bralen Trahan have made a strong case for draft consideration. Butler has great burst and range but he is inconsistent as a tackler in space.
Marshall has a name familiar to NFL fans. Safety Steven Gilmore is the younger brother of Panthers cornerback Stephon Gilmore. Tall and thin, Steven has registered six interceptions over the past three seasons.
Jimmy Kimmel LA Bowl presented by Stifel
Utah State 24, Oregon State 13 (Recap)
Utah State produced first-round quarterback Jordan Love a few years ago, but few have popped onto the radar in 2021. Linebacker AJ Vongphachanh has looked really good in coverage but struggles to get off blocks and has little pass rush production. Oregon State center Nathan Eldridge has accumulated a tremendous amount of experience in his career.
Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl
UAB 31, BYU 28 (Recap)
UAB edge rusher Alex Wright is a long, but filled out prospect. He is quick and able to turn speed into power. His pass rush production does not match the talent, but NFL teams will salivate over his traits.
BYU has a strong offensive line led by left tackle Blake Freeland and center James Empey. Freeland flipped from the right side last year. He is a very athletic player, but he struggles with leverage because of his height. Empey, on the other hand, plays with great leverage. He will lean on opponents in the run game. Tight end Isaac Rex and running back Tyler Allgeier both show traits that suggest they could one day develop into NFL starters.
PUBG Mobile New Mexico Bowl
Fresno State 31, UTEP 24 (Recap)
There is a talent discrepancy in this matchup, as Fresno State brings a lot more to the table this year. Bulldogs quarterback Jake Haener has fought through injuries to deliver his team a few big wins this season. The Washington transfer is a bit undersized but displays great accuracy and leadership.
Running back Ronnie Rivers has taken down nearly every record that the program had entering the season. Rivers has flexible ankles to create opportunities in open space. Wide receiver Jalen Cropper is the team's top draft prospect with Haener returning to school next season. Cropper has a large catch radius and shows great body control allowing him to attack the ball in the air. The California native has footwork at the stem to create leverage.
Cricket Celebration Bowl
South Carolina State 31, Jackson State 10 (Recap)
South Carolina State cornerback Decobie Durant is a long, lean prospect with great ball skills. Over the past four seasons, he has managed to snare 12 interceptions, including three this season. Jackson State head coach Deion Sanders loaded up on transfers in his first season with the program. One of those transfers was senior linebacker James Houston, who has registered 14.5 sacks since coming over from Florida. Even more impressive, Houston has converted seven pass rush opportunities into forced fumbles. He was coached by Patrick Surtain in high school.
RoofClaim.com Boca Raton Bowl
Western Kentucky 59, App State 38 (Recap)
Western Kentucky quarterback Bailey Zappe has been rising in the draft community. The Houston Baptist transfer is calm in the pocket. He shows great accuracy and an understanding of how to lead his receivers. Zappe is headed to the Reese's Senior Bowl in an effort to boost his stock even more. Edge rusher DeAngelo Malone is slender but shows great acceleration and range. In the past, he has struggled to get off blocks and can improve in defending the run.
Appalachian State linebacker D'Marco Jackson shows strong leadership skills and has disciplined eyes. His game is more reactive than proactive, but he should find a role on special teams in the NFL. Jackson has accepted an invitation to participate in the Senior Bowl. Defensive lineman Demetrius Taylor and cornerback Shaun Jolly are a few other talented defenders on the roster.
