In most cases we try to preview the game rather than review but birthday celebrations caught me by surprise and I wasn’t able to get to this contest. You didn’t think I would let my Bobcats slip past me. For more reasons than being an alumni I will look at the 2012 NFL Draft prospects featured in this contest taken by the OU Bobcats. Here’s a look at the top prospects for each team:
Lavon Brazill, WR, Ohio #7
Brazill showed his toughness during the 2011 season as he played most of it on a torn meniscus. This game was a typical game by OU’s gamebreaker. He made big plays when they counted including an impressive catch on 4th down with a defender draped all over him. Brazill is a quick twitch player that lacks elite size (5’11, 190) to become a No. 1 receiver in the NFL. Brazill could find a home in the slot for a team drafting in the mid to late rounds. He finished the season with 72 receptions for 1150 yards and 11 TD’s. He posted 8 grabs for 108 yards and a TD in this contest. Brazill could be a solid value in the 5-7 round range. If he makes it into round 7, someone is getting a steal.
Noah Keller, LB, Ohio #47
Keller is a guy you can’t help but notice when you watch OU, which I do frequently. Keller is a tackling machine that is always around the football. This game was a very typical game for Keller with 11 tackles. Keller is not going to blow anyone away with his measurables but he’s a guy that has the instincts to make a team and be an immediate contributor on special teams. Keller is a late round sleeper that may go undrafted. I don’t think the team that picks Keller up (or drafts him) will be disappointed.
Joe Flading, T, Ohio #56
Flading was an All-MAC First-Teamer that is likely headed for UDFA. He may get some looks from the NFL because he’s so raw but there is talent there. Flading is a mauler that lacks technique and is undersized for the position (6’4, 292). He may have to move inside to guard in the NFL. He looked solid in this contest as he was clearly the best OL on either side.
Bobby Wagner, LB, Utah St #9
Wagner is a name that has flown up draft boards as of late. Wagner is more of an OLB despite some listing him as an ILB. He has put together 3 consecutive 100+ tackle seasons. He showed in this game why he’s moving up draft boards quickly. He’s got a very good motor that makes him a major pain to block for opponents. He has a ton of speed and athleticism and could easily work his way into the end of round two come April.
Robert Turbin, RB, Utah St #6
Robert Turbin is rumored to be leaving Utah St. early and we can see why. The junior back has a thick, powerful build that would lend itself well in the NFL. At 5’10, 221 Turbin showed his power on several occasions during this contest. He also showed a shiftiness that would surprise some. At times, he relied too much on his feet rather than just hitting the hole and gaining positive yards. Turbin is a little raw as a runner but he could be a nice prospect in the 3-4 round range.
