Connor Cook: NFL Draft Stock on the Line against Ohio State

By Joe Wedra | Nov 7, 2014

Connor Cook has been looked at as one of the hottest quarterback prospects in the country in 2014. While he’s been criticized by many (including yours truly) on his mechanics and footwork, he’s done enough to be considered a first-round pick in the 2015 NFL Draft. The big test has arrived for Cook and the Spartans in Ohio State. They’ll have to be perfect to win and improve their College Football Playoff chances.

Currently on the outside looking in, the Spartans need this win against #13 ranked Ohio State to propel them into serious consideration for college football’s new playoff format. Cook has been here before, and he’ll need to duplicate his past performance against the rival to ensure this one is a win.

It’s big for Michigan State and their fans, but you could argue that Cook actually has the most to lose in East Lansing on Saturday night.

More from College Football

He managed to complete 60-percent of his passes and toss three touchdowns in 2013 against an elite Ohio State defense that had three defensive starters drafted in May.

NFL Draft scouts want to see three big things from Cook on Saturday: poise in the pocket against an elite pass rush, use of his athleticism to extend plays, and effectively taking timely shots downfield. If he can work in a game where his physical tools come into play against the Buckeyes, he’ll be given a big boost on boards across the country.

Cook’s poise against the Ohio State defensive line will be arguably the biggest thing to observe on Saturday. It’s widely known that Cook has a serious issue with jumpiness in the pocket – too often throwing off his back foot and making bad decisions. Urban Meyer’s defense is known for capitalizing in big spots, so avoiding the big mistake late in the game can be the difference maker. Playing at Spartan Stadium should help Cook keep his head in it,

Watch out for Buckeyes CB Doran Grant in this one. He’s draft eligible and should be matching up against Tony Lippett, who has nine touchdowns on the season. The senior has had over 100 yards in each of his last four games.

A complete game would help Cook’s stock in a way that can’t be overstated.

NFL teams will be watching… There’s no better time for the junior to break out and show he’s ready to tackle a starting job in the National Football League.

Despite the rumors of Cook returning to college, you have to believe that a big game here would seal the deal for a move to the next level.

Home/College Football