Alfonzo Dennard against Alshon Jeffery in the Capital One Bowl (1 p.m., ESPN) is arguably the best one-on-one match-up of the day. NFL scouts will want to observe how Jeffery handles Dennard's bump and run coverage. Bad quarterback play has negatively impacted Jeffery's draft stock this season, but he hasn't run the most precise routes. There has also been questions about Jeffery's effort off the field.
Dennard has had to work through injuries this season. During the offseason, he'll not only face questions about his injury history, but his size. Dennard is listed at 5-foot-10, but he gets the most out of his size.
There will be plenty of defensive talent on display on both sides of the ball. The Gamecocks defense is led by senior Melvin Ingram. Although he doesn't necessarily have a single position, he gets most of his reps at end. Ingram is a relentless pass rusher whose future in the NFL may be playing linebacker.
South Carolina vs. Nebraska; Capital One Bowl NFL Draft watch notes
Safety Antonio Allen is a largely unheralded draft prospect, but has nice size and is an all-around player. He's a natural in zone coverage and is big enough to cover tight ends. Is used as the Spur where he lines up closer to the line of scrimmage than most safeties.
South Carolina defensive backs Devonte Holloman (strong safety), D.J. Swearinger (free safety) and Stephon Gilmore (cornerback) each submitted paperwork to the NFL Draft advisory committee. Of the three, Gilmore is the most ready to go pro. He's a big, physical cornerback who should land in the first round with a good offseason.
After Dennard, Nebraska's best prospect is linebacker Lavonte David, an All-American this season. Although David doesn't have the best size, he has the ability to make plays all over the field. He's a three-down linebacker who will excel on a team that asks its linebackers to drop in coverage.
Nebraska also has a pair of offensive tackles in Marcel Jones and Jermarcus "Yoshi" Hardrick who will get looks in the NFL.
2013 NFL Draft watch: We've covered defensive end Devin Taylor several times this season. He's run hot and cold all year and need another year in college to gain consistency and get stronger at the point of attack. If he can develop in both of those areas, he could be a top 20 pick.
