NFL Draft Prospects Who Must Step Up In Week 3

Sep 6, 2014; Stanford, CA, USA; USC Trojans quarterback Cody Kessler (6) looks to pass the ball against the Stanford Cardinal in the third quarter at Stanford Stadium. The Trojans defeated the Cardinal 13-10. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports

Cody Kessler (QB – USC) and Kevin Hogan (QB – Stanford)

This is the third contest between USC and Stanford with Cody Kessler and Kevin Hogan at quarterback. While USC and Kessler have won both games, neither QB has played exceptionally well. That needs to change this weekend if Kessler and Hogan hope to improve their draft stocks.

The two quarterbacks have combined for a grand total of once touchdown (Kessler) and two interceptions (both Hogan) in the previous two matchups, with each averaging just over 200 yards passing. Those numbers should improve this time around as both schools have lost key players on the defensive side of the ball, while each offense returns at least seven starters from a season ago.

Even if both teams rely heavily on the run game, the score should be close enough where each QB will have to make a few plays in critical situations. That’s one aspect of this game that favors USC. Kessler has been a much more efficient passer on third downs, completing 70 percent of his passes in 2014 compared to Hogan’s 52 percent. Kessler has also been more accurate and protective of the ball in the red zone.

In terms of the draft, these two are headed in opposite directions. Although his size will raise concerns, Kessler is shooting up draft boards and is currently my number two QB. Hogan’s stock on the other hand has plummeted as a result of poor play and a slow delivery. Much like former UCLA QB Brett Hundley completed a career sweep of Kessler’s Trojans a year ago, Kessler will look to finish his career 3-0 versus Stanford. In order to do so, he’ll have to outperform Hogan.

Next: Cassanova McKinzy