Military Bowl, 3 p.m., ESPN - San Jose State vs. Bowling Green
2013 NFL Draft watch notes for Thursday’s Bowl Games
Thearon W. Henderson
Game Notes
Junior quarterback David Fales leads an explosive offense that has no trouble moving the ball through the air. Fales is no lock to declare early for the draft, but he is an accurate passer with solid mechanics. Fales' top targets in the passing game is senior tight end Ryan Otten, who is versatile in what he can do on offense. He possesses excellent size and athleticism to go along with soft hands. Protecting Fales' blind side will be David Quessenberry, who is a late round prospect that has shown limitations in his athleticism.
On Bowling Green’s defense, defensive tackle Chris Jones is worth tracking. He has racked up 21 sacks over the last two seasons for the Falcons and projects as a 3-technique defensive end or 4-3 under tackle at the next level. Bowling Green’s offense brings little to the table in terms of NFL talent.
Belk Bowl, 6:30 p.m., ESPN - Cincinnati vs. Duke
Game Notes
Duke's offense runs through the passing game. Senior quarterback Sean Renfree has been disappointing this season but still possesses enough talent to get the job done at the college level. His top wide receiver, Conner Vernon is actually the better pro prospect.
Cincinnati's defense counters with junior safety Deven Drane, who is a very experienced player in the secondary. Senior safety Drew Frey rounds out the deep middle of the field for the Bearcats and should make life tough on the Blue Devils' passing game. Other prospects to watch on Cincinnati include linebacker Greg Blair, who led the team in tackles as a senior, and senior punter Pat O'Donnell.
GAME OF THE DAY
Bridgepoint Education Holiday Bowl, 9:45 p.m., ESPN - UCLA vs. Baylor
When UCLA has the football
The Bruins offense has been impressive this season. Running back Jonathan Franklin has shown tons of ability throughout his senior season. He's an explosive back with excellent vision. Despite his size, Franklin has flashed the ability to play on all three down in the NFL. Meanwhile, tight end Joseph Fauria's athleticism has been on full display this season. He has emerged as a vertical threat and shows solid body control, making him an excellent target in the red zone. Baylor's defense is going to have all kinds of problems slowing down this offense.
When Baylor has the football
Senior wide receiver Terrance Williams has flown under the radar a bit, but he is a quality prospect that will get a look on the draft's second day. UCLA has a pair of cornerbacks in Sheldon Price and Aaron Hester that should be able to hold their own in coverage against Williams. That will be one of the most interesting matchups to watch in this game. UCLA also has a pair of elite pass rushers. Junior Anthony Barr and senior Datone Jones. Both have the potential to be first round picks, though Barr may not declare for the 2012 NFL Draft.
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