Michigan vs Washington: A deep dive into the hidden NFL Draft gems of the College Football Championship (CFC)

The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.- Eleanor Roosevelt: with the College Football Championship (CFC) serving as a window into the future of professional football, the 2024 season has been nothing short of spectacular. The event has been a breeding ground for the NFL's next generation of superstars. 

We know Rome Odunze and JJ McCarthy will be first-rounders for sure. Today, we focus on the CFC players who have made significant strides this season and are poised to make a mark on Day 2 of the NFL draft, but with a big game, could elevate themselves to the first round 

The Quarterback Quandary: Michael Penix Jr. 

Rising above the rest: Michael Penix Jr., the Washington quarterback, has experienced a meteoric rise in his draft stock. Penix is an accurate, brilliant thrower with a good touch on his passes and trusts his receivers in contested coverage.

He finished second in the Heisman voting and led the Huskies to the National Championship game, taking home the Maxwell Award and dominating the Sugar Bowl. He finished 2023 with a Warren Moon-esk 4218 passing yards and 33 touchdowns. Thirteen of those went to his No.1 target in Washington and now Falcons teammate Rome Odunze. An exceptional performance against the Wolverines will demonstrate his ability to take charge in critical situations, the last piece NFL Scouts need to see. Penix Jr. is expected to be picked between the 30-55 range in the draft.

The challenge ahead: Despite his impressive performance, Penix Jr. faces a stiff challenge from Michigan's defense. He must prove his mettle by delivering a dominant performance, potentially propelling his draft position even higher.