NFL Draft Prospects Who Must Step Up In Week 3

Sep 5, 2015; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Brandon Allen (10) passes against the UTEP Miners during the game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. The Razorbacks defeat the Miners 48-13. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Football is in full swing as both the NCAA and NFL seasons are now underway. While we are still a few weeks away from being able to separate the contenders from the pretenders, this is a very important time of year for NFL Draft prospects. Carrying momentum into conference play is critical not only to a team’s success, but for a player’s draft stock as well. Here’s a look at which prospects are in need of very good performances this weekend.

Brandon Allen (QB – Arkansas) vs. Texas Tech

The reason why Brandon Allen needs to step up in this game should be obvious; Arkansas scored just 12 points against Toledo last week. Toledo, the same school that finished 123rd out of 128 FBS teams in pass defense last year. In order to beat Texas Tech, Arkansas will need to score more than 12 points. In fact, the Razorbacks may need to score more than 12 points per quarter.

Sure Allen threw for 412 yards, but he failed to throw a touchdown and struggled when the game was on the line. Arkansas had the ball five times in the red zone against Toledo, but only managed one field goal. That’s on Allen, who has to make better decisions deep in his opponent’s territory.

At this point, Allen isn’t a draftable prospect. That could all change with strong performances against SEC opponents, but the odds are against him. Facing Texas Tech is the perfect opportunity for him, and the entire offense, to gain momentum heading into conference play.

Next: Notre Dame Front Seven