2015 NFL Draft Sleeper Watch: Sean Mannion Poised For Leap
By Erik Lambert
Sep 20, 2014; Corvallis, OR, USA; Oregon State Beavers quarterback Sean Mannion (4) prepares to throw in the first quarter against the San Diego State Aztecs at Reser Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Susan Ragan-USA TODAY Sports
Part of being a sleeper in any draft is quietly showcasing your talents against top competition. Who are some 2015 NFL draft possibilities this week?
Sean Mannion against USC
The Oregon State quarterback had an outstanding 2013 campaign but chose to stay in school in order to keep bolstering his draft stock. So far he has his team undefeated at 3-0. While not off to the torrid start he was a year ago, Mannion is still under the watchful eye of scouts who like his size, arm strength and accuracy. If he can put all on display and pull out a win against USC and their tough defense, it won’t take long for more people to take notice.
Josh Ferguson against Nebraska
Surprisingly, Illinois is off to a good start this season at 3-1 but they haven’t received much attention. Most believe their pending matchup against Nebraska won’t end well but the team is not short on potential playmakers. Josh Ferguson is among them. The junior running back has become one of their most versatile weapons averaging 6.3 yards per carry on the ground and also boasting 12 catches at 10.4 yards per clip as well. A solid game here would truly give his stock some life.
Jacoby Brissett against Florida State
People don’t realize how good the quarterback development program is at North Carolina State, historically anyway. It’s produced the likes of Philip Rivers, Russell Wilson, and Mike Glennon. So it should be taken seriously when a powerhouse like Florida State plays them, especially when their quarterback is looking good. Jacoby Brissett certainly qualifies. The 6’4″ junior is already over 1,000 yards passing with 10 touchdowns to just one interception. In addition he also has some mobility to him. The Wolf Pack is undefeated and averaging 40 points per game. If Brissett can knock off the mighty Seminoles, his big dreams could become a reality.
Bud Sasser against South Carolina
Their tragic loss to Indiana all but crushed the big bowl hopes of Missouri but wide receiver Bud Sasser was not a reason why. He played outstanding in the game as he has all year. The Tigers are known for big receivers and Sasser is not exception but unlike previous counterparts he’s hoping to get attention for going high in the 2015 NFL draft. To do that he must play big against big opponents and SEC rival South Carolina certainly qualifies. The Gamecocks ranks 13th in the country. If Sasser can put on a show in their building, it won’t matter how Missouri finishes.