2018 NFL Draft Prospects Who Must Step Up in Week 13
Shaquem Griffin (OLB – Central Florida) vs. South Florida
At the 2017 NFL Scouting Combine, Central Florida cornerback Shaquill Griffin was one of the big winners. His performance in the position drills, and especially the workouts, elevated his stock significantly and he was selected in the third round by the Seattle Seahawks. This year, there’s another Griffin trying to impress NFL scouts.
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Shaquill’s twin brother Shaquem is one of the top defenders at Central Florida, and for the second straight season leads the Knights in sacks and tackles for a loss. He plays with very good instincts and will need to be on top of his game in order for Central Florida to remain undefeated. Not only is a spot in the American Athletic Conference title game against Memphis on the line, but a New Year’s Six bowl is as well. Central Florida currently ranks 15th in the College Football Playoff rankings, tops among Group of Five schools.
Griffin’s biggest challenge will be slowing down South Florida quarterback Quinton Flowers. Flowers has led the Bulls to a 9-1 record this season and is the team’s leading passer and rusher. Flowers is coming off back-to-back 100-yard rushing performances and will need that versatility to upset Central Florida. Whether it’s dropping into coverage or spying Flowers from the second level, Griffin is the Knights best option to limiting big plays from the South Florida QB.