2017 NFL Draft Prospects Who Must Step Up in Week 12

Nov 21, 2015; Gainesville, FL, USA; Florida Gators defensive back Jalen Tabor (31) reacts as Florida Atlantic Owls misses the field goal during the second quarter at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 21, 2015; Gainesville, FL, USA; Florida Gators defensive back Jalen Tabor (31) reacts as Florida Atlantic Owls misses the field goal during the second quarter at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
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2017 NFL Draft Elijah McGuire
Sep 5, 2015; Lexington, KY, USA; Louisiana Lafayette Ragin Cajuns running back Elijah McGuire (15) runs the ball against the Kentucky Wildcats in the first half at Commonwealth Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports /

Elijah McGuire (RB – Louisiana Lafayette) vs. Georgia

Saturday is the annual SEC versus non-power five weekend in which SEC schools beat up on weaker opponents prior to the regular season finale. Give Georgia some credit though, at least the Bulldogs didn’t schedule a FCS team like four other SEC schools did. Georgia is still expected to win handedly, but don’t be surprised if Louisiana Lafayette keeps it close. This is especially true if Elijah McGuire takes over for the Ragin’ Cajuns.

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McGuire is on pace to go over 1,000 yards rushing for the third consecutive season despite battling a foot injury for most of the year. The injury has significantly hampered his elusiveness, but he still possesses the vision and power to maximize yardage.

Another area in which his injury has hampered him is as a receiver. His ability to catch passes kept Louisiana Lafayette in the game the last time the school faced an SEC opponent, as he gained 56 yards through the air against Kentucky last season. While he may not be able to post similar numbers against Georgia, he’ll likely be at full strength at the Scouting Combine where he can better display his hands out of the backfield. He’s expected to be a day three pick in the 2017 NFL Draft.