Want to get to know the draft prospects for the 2015 NFL Draft? This weekly column breaks down the best matchups to watch on Saturday and what players to watch.
By Charlie Campbell.
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Nevada vs Louisiana-Lafayette; Saturday, Dec. 20, 11:00 AM ET ESPN
Nevada has produced some pro prospects in recent years, and there was some buzz about quarterback Cody Fajardo entering the season. He hasn’t had a great year though, completing 60 percent of his passes for 2,374 yards with 18 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. It will be interesting to see if the senior can have a positive end to his collegiate career.
Colorado State vs Utah; Saturday, Dec. 20, 3:30 PM ABC
Of the bowl games before Christmas, this one is the most tantalizing and the one I’m most looking forward to seeing. This actually is one of my favorite bowl matchups this season. Utah defensive end Nate Orchard is one of the nation’s leaders in sacks with 17.5 and will see an early-round tackle prospect in Colorado State left tackle Tyler Sambrailo. The winner of their matchup could see a boost to his draft stock, and it will be interesting to see if Sambrailo can contain Orchard’s speed off the edge and repertoire of moves.
The Utes need Orchard to get after the quarterback because Garrett Grayson is a potential second- or third-round pick. The senior quarterback has had an excellent 2014 season. Grayson has a live arm with mobility. He is a sleeper prospect who could get red hot in the lead up to the 2015 NFL Draft.
BYU vs. Memphis; Monday, Dec. 22, 2:00 PM ESPN
The Cougars have a potential NFL pick in outside linebacker/defensive end Bronson Kaufusi. He recorded 34 tackles with 10.5 tackles for a loss, five passes broken up and six sacks during the regular season. The 6-foot-7, 265-pounder could use a strong finish to the year and should have a favorable matchup against Memphis.
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