Stanford vs. Washington Preview: NFL Draft Prospects To Watch

August 31, 2012; Stanford, CA, USA; Stanford Cardinal linebacker Chase Thomas (44, right) runs against San Jose State Spartans center Reuben Hasani (54, left) during the second quarter at Stanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-US PRESSWIRE

If you are like me, you love that Thursday night is now a football night, just like Mondays. However, the added bonus to Thursday night is, you will likely get to see a pretty good college team play as well. This week, the Stanford Cardinal face a tough road test against the Washington Huskies, but they should be able to clean up pretty easily. Here are some top prospects to watch from both teams.

Stanford Cardinal

LB’s Chase Thomas (44) and Shayne Skov (11)

These two bash brothers are two of the best linebackers in the Pac 12 conference. Thomas has 16 tackles and four tackles for loss, both good for second on the team. Only senior cornerback Usua Amanam has more in both categories. Skov still doesn’t quite look himself after missing last season with a torn ACL.

RB Stepfan Taylor (33)

Taylor is having a very good season, averaging over five yards per carry and accounting for all three of Stanford’s rushing touchdown. He had one of the most incredible runs I’ve ever seen against USC this season.

TE’s Zach Ertz (86) and Levine Toilolo (11)

These two lead the team in receiving, and are massive targets. Ertz stands at 6’6″ 252 pounds, and Toilolo is a massive mismatch at 6’8″ 265 pounds. These guys are fun to watch, especially together.

Washington Huskies

CB Desmond Trufant (#6)

Trufant is the younger brother of Isaiah and Marcus, both in the NFL and pretty successful. He has been a highly touted prospect his entire career, and is arguably the top prospect on Washington’s roster.

QB Keith Price (#17)

Price has had a slow start to the season, but he was a sleeper Heisman candidate at one point. He has a ton of talent and will be critical for Washington’s chances of winning the game.