Iowa vs. Michigan: Top 2020 NFL Draft prospects to watch

A.J. Epenesa, DE, Iowa

The two most talented and highly-touted 2020 NFL Draft prospects in this game will suit up for the Hawkeyes. Up first, we are going to take a look at Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa.

Aside from Ohio State’s Chase Young, Epenesa is arguably the best defensive player in all of college football. He is an absolutely dominant defensive lineman who can impact the game in and variety of ways and has massive upside at the next level.

Epenesa’s power and raw strength immediately stand out on tape. He is as strong as an ox and can physically manhandle most opposing offensive lineman. Epenesa uses his power well against the run and is dominant in bull rush situations.

While his power is great, do not sleep on Epenesa’s athletic ability. He is a quick and explosive defensive end who gets off of the ball well and can win with speed on the outside. He shows great upfield burst and bends around the edge with ease. Make no mistake about it, Epenesa is a stud and should be a top-five selection in the 2020 NFL Draft.

Tristan Wirfs, OT, Iowa

As good as Epenesa is, Tristan Wirfs is just as good for the Hawkeyes on the other side of the ball. Wirfs is a freak athlete for an offensive lineman, showing fantastic overall movement skills and ridiculous natural strength.

He is a dominant run blocker who can secure the first level and take care of the second level with ease, but Wirfs is an even better pass protector who has shown the ability to protect the quarterback at both right and left tackle this season. Keep an eye on Wirfs in this game, he should show out against a less than stellar Michigan defensive front.