The inaugural Pac-12 title game between UCLA and Oregon is likely to be a one-side affair. Because USC is on probation, the 6-6 Bruins are in the title game and have barely a chance against the high scoring Ducks.
From an NFL Draft perspective, there isn't much to be excited about, especially for the Bruins. The team's best draft prospect is junior tight end Joseph Fauria. At a listed 6-foot-8 and 252 pounds, Fauria is the tallest player on the team's roster. He's become a good vertical threat this season and has nice athleticism. Two of UCLA's cornerbacks, junior Sheldon Price and Aaron Hester, probably won't come out after this season. But both have nice size and worth noting for 2013.
One of my favorite sleeper players in the 2012 NFL Draft is Oregon tight end David Paulson. He had an impressive game against Oregon State last week with eight catches for 105 yards and a touchdown. The Oregon spread is just so unfriendly for tight end that Paulson is rarely the first look in the pass offense.
Pac-12 Championship Game: UCLA at Oregon NFL Draft watch notes
Running back LaMichael James may only be a rotation player in the NFL, but he's shifty and quick. James is going to have to test out really well to get taken in the first 100 picks.
Another Ducks sleeper to follow is linebacker Josh Kaddu. He's a physical marvel and has 6.5 sacks on the season. He could be this draft's version of K.J. Wright.
Strong safety Eddie Pleasant is a fringe draftable prospect. He's decent against the run and in coverage.
The Mid-American Conference title game is also tonight featuring Northern Illinois and Ohio. Huskies quarterback Chandler Harnish is a project quarterback who will probably have to spend a year on a practice squad. Bobcats wide receiver Lavon Brazill could be a solid slot receiver in the right scheme.
