The game of college football varies vastly from that of the NFL. In college there are a plethora of players that lack those certain skills needed to be a successful player on the next stage. Therefore, many players size and athleticism makes them standouts on their respective college teams. However, the NFL game speed is much faster than that of collegiate football, and that is one of the reasons why the 40-yard dash is taken so seriously in the league combines and pro days. The quarterback position may be the most difficult position to adjust to in the NFL. Pocket presence, arm strength, mobility and accuracy, are four vital attributes that a college quarterback must have if they expect to do well on the next level. This season may be seen, by many, as a down year for the quarterback position, however, there are quarterbacks who possess many of the key qualities needed to perform. Here is my big board for the top five quarterbacks in the upcoming 2008 NFL draft:
5. Brian Brohm- Louisville Cardinals: Brohm emerged as a big name quarterback long before the 2008 season. This year Brohm performed great in many games while racking up 30 touchdowns and only 12 interceptions. While Brohm also had a completion percentage of 65.1 his consistency is a question in the minds of many pro scouts. His inability to rack up points versus a poor Utah Utes defense is what many still remember about his season, but Brohm's accuracy and tenacity should be two things that he can take alongside his career in the NFL. (projected draft round: early to mid 2nd).
4. Andre Woodson- Kentucky Wildcats: In 2008 Woodson led his team to a 5-0 start and racked up 233 points while demolishing the competition but his, untimely, hamstring injury and his lackluster performance at the combine had his NFL stock dropping. Although his stock has dropped, the fall should taper off due to his amazing 2008 season with the Wildcats. During the Wildcats run, Woodson threw for 40 touchdowns and 11 interceptions, while rushing for three more. Woodson's 63.1 completion percentage and, his amazing win over the eventual National Champion Louisiana State Tigers, is what showcases his ability to win the big game. Woodson should make a good pick for teams who need a back up quarterback who can learn alongside a veteran. (projected draft round: early 3rd)
3. Joe Flacco- Delaware: Although Joe Flacco led his team to an 11-4 season many scouts main complaint against the quarterback is that he isn't "battle tested". What they mean by this is that Flacco had not been up against the speed of the elite college programs. The speed in the NFL is much faster and questions storm about whether or not he can handle the speed of the NFL. Although his numbers weren't stellar, throwing 23 touchdowns and 5 interceptions, Flacco caused most of his damage when the season was over. His performance in the NFL combine and his pro day in combination with his 6'6, 230 pound frame have many comparing him to Peyton Manning. We will see if he lives up to the comparisons. (projected draft round: mid to late 2nd)
2. Chad Henne- Michigan Wolverines: Chad Henne is known for his toughness and fortitude and that's why he has risen on my board by the week. Henne's performance against the Florida Gators in the Capitol One Bowl is what many scouts remember. Henne single-handedly dismantled the Florida defense, throwing for 373 yards and 3 touchdowns. The one issue with Henne is his health, but that seems to be in the past as Henne is quickly climbing many draft boards. If it weren't for nagging injuries, Henne might have won the Heisman, as he was on many analysis top picks before the '08 season. His great performance in the Senior Bowl and NFL combine as well as his experience against typical NFL defenses like Ohio State, USC, and Penn State should have Henne ready to make an immediate impact in the NFL. (projected draft round: early to mid 2nd)
1. Matt Ryan- Boston College Eagles: Out of all the 2008 quarterbacks, Matt Ryan ultimately epitomizes the term "NFL ready" and that's the reason he's number one on my board. He has the big arm, pocket presence, mobility, and accuracy to be the next big quarterback in the NFL. While at Boston college Ryan racked up an astounding 4,507 passing yards and showed his pocket presence delivering touchdown passes to 9 different players. Ryan continues to impress at combines, and pro days and is the number one quarterback on many analysis boards. The one weakness Ryan has is his inability to make good decisions in the pocket, as he threw 19 interceptions, but Ryan showcased his talent in the ACC and won the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm award, given to the most outstanding college senior quarterback in the nation. Matt Ryan will definitely contribute to whatever teams decides to draft him. (projected draft round: early to mid 1st)
To see more about the top quarterbacks from the 2008 College Football season click on the links below:
sports.espn.go.com
ncaafootball.com
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment