NFL Draft Prospects to Watch in College Football Week 8

NFL Draft Prospects to Watch in College Football Week 8

Time Stamp: October 15, 2023 9:45 AM

While the 2023 NFL Draft is still far off in the distance, players who will be drafted early are on the field now. Each week presents unique matchups for draft prospects and this week is no different. Here are NFL Draft prospects to watch in college football week 8.

1. Olu Fashanu, OT, Penn State Nittany Lions

Penn State has had a fantastic season so far, going 6-0 through the first seven weeks. Their offense has been great with some balance between the run and the pass. The offensive line has been a big factor in that and Fashanu is the best offensive lineman for the Nittany Lions. He has shown to be light on his feet and adept at both run and pass blocking.

In week 8, Fashanu will be going up against Ohio State. The Buckeyes feature several future pros along their defensive line, which will make this challenging. He will need to clear holes in the running game and protect quarterback Drew Allar’s blindside. Fashanu is in contention to be the first tackle taken in the 2024 NFL Draft.

2. J.T. Tuimoloau, EDGE, Ohio State Buckeyes

Ohio State hasn’t played 100 percent smoothly, but they are undefeated heading into week 8. Their defense has taken a giant step forward this season, as they rank third in the country, allowing just 9.7 points per game. Their defensive line has wreaked havoc and J.T. Tuimoloau is among the best edge rushers in the game. He has 19 total tackles, four tackles for loss and three sacks on the season.

As mentioned, Tuimoloau will be going up against a talented offensive line that features Fashanu. His power rushing style has created pressures and he has even worked on his pass rush moves to be more diverse. A big game from Tuimoloau, like he had last season against Penn State, could really increase his stock. He is currently projected to be a mid-first round pick.

3. J.C. Latham, OT, Alabama Crimson Tide

Alabama has one loss on the season and has had some other close games. They have not been operating smoothly this season, which makes their good players stand out above the rest. Latham is one of those players. The offensive line hasn’t played well all season, but Latham has been a bright spot on the team.

The week 8 matchup for the Crimson Tide is with the Tennessee Volunteers. Because they have been inconsistent through the air this season, Alabama will need to control the line of scrimmage to win this game. Latham can help them establish the run and they should be able to get a win over the Volunteers. It is a deep tackle class, but Latham could be the third one selected somewhere in the first round.

Oregon had their first loss of the season this past week to Washington. They have played well this season though and still have a lot to play for. The Ducks offense has been one of the highest-scoring in the FBS. Bo Nix gets a lot of the credit, but he has help from wide receiver Troy Franklin. He has 40 catches for 689 yards and eight touchdowns this season.

In week 8, the Ducks will take on Washington State. They will need to show they can bounce back and Franklin can help them do that. He has shown to be able to use his size well to make contested catches and create big plays. There are plenty of good wide receivers in this draft class, so if Franklin wants to move his name up rankings, he has to continue to play well.

5. Graham Barton, OT, Duke Blue Devils

Duke has had a great start to the season, with their only loss coming to Notre Dame. Their offense has been great at times, but they also have won games with starting quarterback Riley Leonard out injured. The offensive line has played well and Barton has put his name in the conversation as one of the best tackles in the country.

He will have his work cut out for him this week as the Blue Devils prepare to take on Florida State. It is unknown whether Leonard will play, but either way, Barton will have to open up running lanes so the threat of the pass is there. If he can play well against a gifted group of defensive lineman this week, it could help solidify his stock.

Check out our NFL Draft page for more news and updates like NFL Draft prospects to watch in college football week 8!

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