2018 NFL Draft Prospects Who Must Step Up in Week 10

Steve Ishmael (WR – Syracuse) vs. Florida State

As a result of Hurricane Irma, an early-season matchup between Florida State and Louisiana-Monroe was cancelled. No big deal, right? It’s turned out to be a very big deal for the Seminoles, who now must win their final four games just to earn a bowl invite. First up is Syracuse, led by star wide receiver Steve Ishmael.

Syracuse Orange Football

The big question heading into this game is whether or not the Orange offensive line can protect quarterback Eric Dungey. If Dungey has time, the battle downfield between Ishmael and the Florida State secondary will be fun to watch. Ishmael heads into week 10 as the leading receiver in the ACC with 843 yards, however he has struggled to produce as of late.

The senior topped the 100-yard mark in each of his first five games this season, but has been held under the century mark in the last three contests.

Eclipsing 100 yards through the air against Florida State will be his toughest challenge of the year. As poorly as the Seminoles have played this season, the secondary is still loaded with talent. Safety Derwin James is one of the most talented prospects eligible for the 2018 NFL Draft and cornerback Tarvarus McFadden is another potential first-round pick.

Scouts will be watching closely when Ishmael lines up across from McFadden. With very similar combinations of height, weight and speed, it will be interesting to see how often Ishmael can create separation.