NFL Draft Prospects Who Must Step Up In Week 6

Sep 20, 2014; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Panthers wide receiver Tyler Boyd (23) runs after a pass reception against the Iowa Hawkeyes during the second quarter at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Tyler Boyd (WR – Pittsburgh) vs. Virginia

In his previous two games, Tyler Boyd has gone up against NFL-caliber cornerbacks. First it was Desmond King of Iowa and last week it was Brandon Facyson of Virginia Tech. If he’s going to challenge Laquon Treadwell to be the first WR drafted, he’ll need to play much better this week.

Against King, Boyd did catch 10 passes, but King also had two interceptions. Facyson was able to shut down the Pittsburgh WR, holding him to just 48 yards. This week, Boyd faces another difficult test as he’ll be matched up with Virginia’s Maurice Canady. Other than the Notre Dame game, opposing quarterbacks have stayed away from Canady this season.

This should be a great matchup as both Boyd and Canady have solid length, but only average speed. Boyd is more technically sound, which gives him the advantage in this matchup. He’ll need to utilize his terrific route-running ability to create separation at the top of his routes. If he does, it’s unlikely Canady will be able to slow him down.

Regardless of the outcome of this matchup, Boyd is still going to be a first-round pick. Just three games into his junior season and he’s 14 catches away from breaking the school record for career receptions, currently held by Devin Street. Although Josh Doctson of TCU is making a run, Boyd and Treadwell are clearly at the top of the WR class. Playing well against Canady, a likely mid-round pick, will only further enhance Boyd’s stock.

Next: Yannick Ngakoue