2017 NFL Draft Prospects to Watch: Dec. 17-24 Bowls

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Sep 3, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Cougars linebacker Steven Taylor (41) reacts after a play during the game against the Oklahoma Sooners at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /

Las Vegas Bowl: Steven Taylor (OLB – Houston)

In what may be the most anticipated bowl game of the week, Houston and San Diego State faceoff in Las Vegas. This game features the nation’s seventh-best rushing attack, led by San Diego State star Donnel Pumphrey against the number three rush defense in the FBS. In order for Houston to prevent Pumphrey from lighting up the stat sheet, linebacker Steven Taylor will need to come up big.

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Taylor is not only the top 2017 NFL Draft prospect on the Houston roster, he’s also the heart and soul of the Cougars defense. After losing William Jackson III and Elandon Roberts from last year’s squad, the pressure was on Taylor to keep Houston among the elite Group of Five programs. He’s delivered ever since the season opening win over Oklahoma and will look to close out his college career with another strong performance.

The only rushing attack ranked higher than the Aztecs that Houston faced this season was Navy. The Midshipmen ran for over 300 yards in that game while handing the Cougars their first loss of the season. That was also the only game this season that Taylor did not play in. Houston’s leading tackler will be on the field this time around as he looks to cement his place as a day two selection in the 2017 NFL Draft.

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