Tuesday 1/1
VRBO Citrus Bowl: Kentucky vs. Penn State
Josh Allen, ED, Kentucky
If quarterbacks and those who protect them are the most important prospects on offense, it only makes sense that pass rushers get the same respect on defense. This draft is heavy on defensive linemen. But with many of the best prospects lining up on the interior, a true edge rusher like Allen has increased value. At 6-foot-4 and more than 250 pounds, pass rushing comes just as easy as playing against the run or dropping back in coverage for Allen.
He could have been a first-round pick had he declared last year. But his impressive senior season took him to another level. While there are a few other rising edge rushers in this class, Allen should cement himself into the tier with Ohio State’s Nick Bosa and Clemson’s Clelin Ferrell with a productive bowl game and strong test numbers.
Honorable Mention: Montez Sweat, ED, Mississippi State ( 1/1 Outback Bowl, vs. Iowa)
Tuesday 1/1
PlayStation Fiesta Bowl: LSU vs. UCF
Devin White, LB, LSU
Even with Greedy Williams skipping the Fiesta Bowl to focus on the draft, plenty of attention will be on White—who is held in similar esteem to former Georgia stud Roquon Smith a year ago. White comes into the New Year’s Day showdown with UCF a virtual lock to be the first linebacker off the board.
He has the requisite size to hold up in the middle of the field, but it’s his speed that sets the tone for the Tigers’ defense. While linebackers are sometimes overlooked, he has a chance to match Smith as a top-10 pick and depending how the draft shakes out he could rise even higher.
Honorable Mention: Deandre Baker, CB, Georgia (Allstate Sugar Bowl, vs. Texas)
