Week 14 college football standouts include Devonta Smith

Many first-round draft prospects have already established themselves at this point in the college football season. 14 weeks in and players are polishing their resumes as we head towards the offseason. On Saturday, Two massive performances from both sides of the ball deserve a lot of attention, even if it’s from guys we expect great play from.

DEVONTA SMITH

Smith has all but cemented himself into the top 15 of the 2021 NFL Draft. After a 2019 season where he led Alabama in receiving, ahead of Jerry Jeudy and Henry Ruggs, Smith’s 2020 encore is nothing short of brilliant.

Smith dismantled a talented LSU secondary to the tune of eight catches for 231 yards and three scores. That’s right. Smith faced down Derek Stingley Junior, one of the best cornerbacks in the country and posted almost 29 yards receptions and some incredible touchdown catches.

Smith went up above the rim for that one.

Through nine games this season, Smith has 80 catches for over 1,300 yards and 15 scores. This eclipses every number it took him thirteen games to hit last year.

Smith is as polished as he is productive. The senior receiver will be loved for his pro-readiness as well as his big play ability. He can and has lined up all over the place for Alabama and posted big numbers. LSU was just another notch in the belt.

QUINCY ROCHE

On defense, Miami’s Quincy Roche wrecked Duke’s whole evening as the Hurricanes rolled for a 48-0 win. Blanking the Blue Devils was only possible in part due to Roche’s big night. The former Temple star had arguably his best game at Miami where he had 3 TFLs, 1.5 sacks and seemed to create pressure on the Duke offense all game.

While Roche hasn’t put up big sack numbers in 2020, his constant pressure creation and outstanding run defense should keep him in the first round conversation. His game against Duke is a prime example of why he’ll be so sought after.