Friday Bowl Draft Preview

The College Football FBS Bowl season kicks off today with a pair of postseason games. These games feature some under-the-radar teams but that does not mean they lack draft talent. Each team has one player of interest who will garner attention from NFL teams.

Bahamas Bowl, 2 PM on ESPN

Alex Highsmith, Defensive End, Charlotte: Alex Highsmith walked onto Charlotte back in 2014 when they were still an FCS team. Now, in their first ever bowl appearance, Highsmith is among the most productive defenders in the country. The 244 pound defender has amassed 21.5 TFLs and 14 sacks this year. In fact, Highsmith has 39 TFLs in the last two seasons. He is a high effort, physical player who is relentless against the pass and run. He will be lining up against a Buffalo offense that runs the football as well as anyone in the country. Highsmith’s final game in college could bring a lot of glory to himself and to the program he helped jumpstart.

Evin Ksiezarczyk, Offensive Tackle, Buffalo Bulls: In 2018, the Bulls set school records in rushing yards (2,648) and sacks allowed (15) and this year they absolutely smashed both numbers. With Evin Ksiezarczyk anchoring the line, the Bulls rushed for 3,501 yards while only allowing eight sacks. The senior offensive linemen has been the leader of the best offensive line in the MAC. The 6’6”, 311 pound senior is a strong, physical player who will have a great match against the Charlotte’s defensive line.

Frisco Bowl, 7:30 PM on ESPN2

Caleb Repp, Tight End, Utah State: Caleb Repp started out his career at Utah where he was recruited to play tight end before the Utes switched him to playing defensive line. After two years of barely seeing the field, Repp moved to Utah State where he got to play as a tight end again. In his first year as a starting college tight end, Repp had a respectable 36 catches and four scores. Repp’s numbers aren’t flashy, but he is an intriguing player with a lot of upside at the position. He has a massive 6’5” frame with great athletic ability and could still get bigger. He should generate lots of draft interest this spring.

Jamal Parker, Cornerback, Kent State: The Golden Flashes have a 5’8” senior cornerback whose play is anything but small. Jamal Parker is the team’s leading playmaker with three interceptions this year and nine passes defended. After a productive freshman season back in 2016, teams started going away from Parker in the passing game. Despite this, Parker has found ways to make a big impact as a ball hawk and a tackler. He is a feisty defender who will test Jordan Love and the Aggies passing game. On top of his exciting defensive play, Parker is also a great kick returner who can turn any touch into points.