Stanford RB Stepfan Taylor Rising Up Draft Boards

September 15, 2012; Stanford, CA, USA; Stanford Cardinal running back Stepfan Taylor (33) runs with the ball against Southern California Trojans safety T.J. McDonald (7) during the first quarter at Stanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-US PRESSWIRE

After his performance against the USC Trojans, Stanford running back Stepfan Taylor is quickly rising up draft boards. Taylor has been a steady prospect the last couple of years, rushing for over 1,000 yards and 10 touchdowns each of the past two seasons. However, I think he made a statement in Stanford’s upset victory over the Trojans last Saturday.

Taylor had a huge 59 yard rush against USC where he showed amazing agility and acceleration that I’ve never seen from him before. He’s got excellent size and vision, and has proven over the last three years that he can be a featured back in a run-heavy offense. He’s averaged over five yards per carry in every season he’s been with Stanford, and so far this season, he’s got 338 yards on the ground along with three touchdowns.

He’s also caught 10 passes for 89 yards and a touchdown, and after his performance against USC, he’s drawn some attention as a potential Heisman candidate. He is definitely a player to watch as the season progresses, as he’s the leading rusher on a primarily running team with a ton of upside.

Over the last two seasons with Andrew Luck, Taylor rushed for 2,467 yards and 25 touchdowns. He’s also improved as a pass catcher over the last few seasons. He could be a top 64 selection when all is said and done.