2019 NFL Draft Prospects Who Must Step Up in Week 2
Jake Bentley (QB – South Carolina) vs. Georgia
South Carolina quarterback Jake Bentley was impressive in his season debut against Coastal Carolina, completing over 75% of his passes to go along with four touchdowns and no interceptions. That performance was somewhat expected considering the team he was matched up against, however, a similar performance in week two against Georgia would get the first-round hype going.
If you’ve watched a Gamecocks broadcast over the past two-plus years, you’ve likely heard the story of Jake Bentley. He played high school ball in Opelika, Alabama, graduated a year early and took over as the starter for South Carolina seven games into what should have been his senior year of high school. From there, he’s continued to progress and looks like a future starting quarterback in the NFL.
Georgia and Clemson will present the two toughest tests of the season for Bentley, with the Bulldogs being next on the schedule. Bentley had a decent game against Georgia last season, however, two interceptions and the lack of a run game doomed the Gamecocks.
If Bentley can give himself time by maneuvering in the pocket and avoid costly turnovers, South Carolina has a chance to keep this game close. Avoiding Deandre Baker, arguably the top cornerback prospect eligible for the 2019 NFL Draft, will be near the top of Bentley’s to-do list on Saturday.