2017 NFL Draft: National Title Prospects Who Just Made Money
By Erik Lambert
O.J. Howard (TE, Alabama)
He wasn’t only the best receiving target for the Crimson Tide in the game, for the most part Howard was the only receiving target. At least the only one that could make plays when it mattered. His 106 yards were 70 yards better than the next closes Tide receiver on the stat sheet. Even better was the fact that he was spotted wide open on a number of other plays Alabama couldn’t hit. This game validated that he’s one of, if not the best tight end prospect in the 2017 class.
Ryan Anderson strips Wayne Gallman and recovers the fumble at the start of the 2nd half for #Alabama! #RollTide #NationalChampionship pic.twitter.com/tq2WcYNCv7
— Chat Sports (@ChatSports) January 10, 2017
Ryan Anderson (OLB, Alabama)
The one man who made life miserable for Deshaun Watson most of the game was Ryan Anderson. He was everywhere on that Alabama defense. He had a sack, multiple pressures, two tackles for loss and also showed his presence when dropping into coverage. The versatility, athleticism and effort were impossible to miss. Anderson was considered a solid 2nd round prospect before this game. Now he may have rocketed into the top 32.
Next: DeShaun Watson dazzles on the biggest stage again
Reuben Foster (ILB, Alabama)
The linebackers were the focal point of success most of the game for Alabama. While Anderson earned it as a pass rusher, it was Reuben Foster who seemed like he was everywhere. No matter where Clemson ball carriers went, he was there making tackles and delivering some downright vicious hits. Watson is sure to have nightmares about him for the next couple weeks. He looks like a future star at middle linebacker in the NFL.