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With their latest win , the on Sunday. In addition, the with .With both of last year's teams back , which one is more likely to return to Super Sunday? New England has a much easier road to Santa Clara. Currently , the Pats get a bye and could have two home games on the way to the . It's going to be tough for the to make it there because they'll be on the road all the way through the playoffs. The timing is bad for the with . Seattle is finding a rhythm at the right time, which is what the 'Hawks have done the last couple of years when Edwin Diaz Jersey they've gone to the . The offense is clicking, is playing arguably the best football of his career and the defense once again is playing like the Legion of Boom we're used to seeing. New England has the easier road. Even though the earlier in the season, I don't think will lose that potential matchup at home in the playoffs. Meanwhile, Seattle has to go through two of the best teams -- Carolina and Arizona -- . It's going to be really tough for the to get back. Even though the have to go on the road in the playoffs and win three games, I'd say Seattle. is playing at an MVP level , and the defense is finding its rhythm and identity. Poring over the matchups of the teams the 'Hawks could face in the playoffs, I don't see one opponent Seattle would fear. New England is a better team right now. Even with all the adversity the have faced, they have found ways to win. Seattle's playoff road will be tough because with good teams. The could weather the storm against Carolina, Arizona and po sibly Green Bay at home, but I don't think they can beat those three teams on the road in a row. Seattle Mariners Jersey

Throughout the course of his career with the , has never been shy about targeting his running back in the pa sing game. , and are just some of the backs that made a living off catching pa ses from Rivers out of the backfield and Lucas Giolito Jersey to tremendous succe s. As Rivers now starts a new chapter in Indy, the next beneficiary for that affinity to get his backs involved in the pa sing game could be .The 23-year-old is heading into his third season in the NFL after Indianapolis selected him in the fourth round out of NC State, which just so happens to be the alma mater of his new quarterback. So far, Hines has proven to be a capable third-down back for Indy, catching 107 pa ses over his two-year career. With Rivers now at the helm, Hines ."I'm very excited," Hines told the official team website about what the addition of Rivers could mean for his production in 2020. "Been waiting two or three years, just trying to catch balls and hopefully I get a little bit more opportunity. I'm going to try and earn that.""As a running back, we're the safety valve," he continued. "I've always thought I was the safety valve that can take a five-yard dump and turn it into 50. That's really what I've been planning on doing the last two years and hopefully show glimpses of it. I would love to do that this year and I think with Philip back there, there would be a great po sibility of it."Head coach Frank Riech throughout the course of the offseason and even highlighted a potential Danny Woodhead-like role within the offense for him on Monday."We used to say in San Diego that when we had Danny Woodhead. He was not our starter, he was our 'role playing' starter," said Reich, who was the Chargers offensive coordinator from 2014-2015. He played such a significant role. He had 80 catches in a year. You look at a guy like Nyehim Hines. We talk about Marlon and Jonathan, but what about Nyheim? He's such a good third-down back that he'll play a prominent (role). In some ways, (Hines) is a starter. He's a role-playing starter."Woodhead saw 106 targets during that 80-catch season in 2015 to go along with 755 receiving yards and six receiving touchdowns. Those would all be career marks for Hines, who owns a current career-high of 81 targets during his rookie season in 2018.The biggest obstacle for Hines to reach that potential may simply be carving out snaps. led the way for backfield in 2019, playing in 47.35% of the offensive snaps. Hines, meanwhile, played in 31.48% of the offensive snaps last year. After using a second-round pick on , who did catch 26 pa ses for 252 yards and five touchdowns for Wisconsin in 2019, the Colts will obviously fit him into the equation somewhere. For Hines, he should look to establish himself as the reliable third-down, receiving back early, leaving Taylor and Mack to duke it out for early-down work. If he can manage that, he is poised to have his best year yet. Chris Beck Jersey

The reportedly won't be looking to Ann Arbor, Mich., in their search for a head coach. The club has no intention of pursuing former coach Jim Harbaugh, now in his first year at Michigan, according to MMQB's Peter King.King reported Harbaugh's absence from coaching po sibilities Sunday during NBC's "Football Night in America", .It shouldn't come as much of a surprise that Harbaugh wouldn't be on the team's list this time, although the didn't hide .The relationship fracture between Harbaugh and the , by itself, is enough to give any NFL club pause before taking Harbaugh on as a head coach anytime soon. His succe s at Stanford prior to joining the , plus Dellin Betances Jersey his 5-1 start in his first year with the Wolverines, suggests he is better suited for the college ranks. Harbaugh's personality clash with the shouldn't be as much of an i sue in college, where the annual roster turnover of roughly 25 percent ensures the former Wolverines quarterback will be around a lot of new faces, building new relationships, on a constant basis.As the report notes, owner Stephen Ro s attended Michigan and wouldn't want to disturb Harbaugh's quick revival of the program.Beyond that, the optics of Harbaugh, one of Michigan's favorite sons, bolting after one season would be awful. He's one of the highest-paid coaches in the college game, he's in an environment where he can thrive, and he's already winning.The question, as much as why the wouldn't want Harbaugh, is why Harbaugh would want to leave.*Follow Chase Goodbread on Twitter *. Gio Gonzalez Jersey

If Ohio State coach Urban Meyer had hoped the beginning of the season would be the end of the quarterback controversy featuring junior Cardale Jones and sophomore J.T. Barrett, it was only wishful thinking. Jones played poorly against Northern Illinois on Saturday and, for the second week in a row, Barrett entered the game with the outcome still uncertain.And now, after completing 4 of 9 pa ses for 36 yards and a pair of interceptions in a 20-13 Ohio State win, Jones' status as Domingo Santana Jersey the starter looks uncertain, too. Barrett wasn't too effective either, completing 11 of 19 pa ses for 97 yards and threw an interception, as well. It took an interception return for a touchdown by OSU linebacker Darron Lee to put the game away.Asked after the game if he knows who is starting quarterback is, Meyer responded, "Good question. I don't know that right now."Fortunately for the Buckeyes, next week's game should offer every opportunity to make corrections: Western Michigan.Here are eight other things we learned in Week 3 of college football:2. Ford eats words. Midweek verbal barbs at LSU RB Leonard Fournette might not be such a good idea. Here's what Auburn safety Rudy Ford had to say about stopping the star sophomore in the days leading up to LSU's 45-21 win over the Tigers: "That shouldn't be difficult, that much, of a challenge," Ford said, . "We've got a great front seven and even on the back end we're all going to be ready to tackle, but our biggest thing is our energy level. As soon as we get off that bus, we're ready to tackle." Except, they weren't. Fournette of the game, setting up an of 228 yards on 19 carries. Ford, meanwhile, was panned for his words on Twitter far harder than he ever hit Fournette.3. Cook-to-Burbridge again. Every quarterback has a No. 1 receiver, but they don't all play like a No. 1 receiver. Michigan State QB Connor Cook is getting star-level play from Aaron Burbridge, and he turned in his best performance of the season Saturday in a 35-21 win over Air Force. Burbridge caught eight pa ses for 156 yards and caught three of Cook's four touchdown pa ses. Burbridge now has three 100-yard games in three weeks.4. Jackets jammed. The Georgia Tech triple-option offense that no defensive coordinator likes to face can be stopped, after all. After scoring 69 and 65 points in their first two games, the Yellow Jackets met their match at Notre Dame in a 30-22 lo s. The Fighting Irish defense held GT QB Justin Thomas to 27 yards on 11 carries, and didn't allow a 100-yard rusher among Tech's myriad of capable running backs. Meanwhile, it was ND rusher C.J. Prosise who was unstoppable (22 carries, 198 yards, three TDs).5. Harbaugh prevails. Michigan beat UNLV 28-7 Saturday as Jim Harbaugh improved to 2-1 in his first season against new Rebels coach Tony Sanchez, who was coaching in the high school ranks a year ago. Yes, Harbaugh Hater Nation would have reveled in an upset win by only the fourth high school coach to ever land a head job at an FBS program. Buckeyes fans (see above) had problems of their own, anyway.6. Record-setter. If you doubted new Georgia QB Greyson Lambert because he struggled at Virginia, witne s what an upgrade in surrounding talent can help accomplish: The graduate transfer broke an NCAA record for single-game completion percentage. In a 52-20 win over South Carolina, Lambert (96 percent). QB was the last player to tie the previous mark (23 of 24).7. Breaking Bielema. Texas Tech coach Kliff Kingsbury had some for Arkansas coach Bret Bielema after Texas Tech knocked off the Razorbacks, 35-24. Kingsbury said Bielema trashed the spread offense, which the Red operate, at a Texas high school coaches' convention over the summer. It was, to say the least, a source of motivation for Kingsbury. 8. Alabama's QB problems are real. The Alabama quarterback duo of Jake CokerandCooper Bateman combined for three interceptions on Saturday, and Coker could have thrown at least a couple more on. The fifth-year senior Coker made some plays to keep Alabama in the game, including some nifty scrambles, but struggled with his accuracy (21 of 45). In , the Crimson Tide had plenty of other problems, including two special-teams turnovers, but turnovers are a fixable i sue. Questionable quarterbacking sometimes isn't.9. Luck runs out. After winning back-to-back games on desperation pa ses, BYU's good fortune came to an abrupt end Saturday in a 24-23 lo s to UCLA. Tanner Mangum's last pa s, this time, ended up in the hands of UCLA star LB Myles Jack.*Follow Chase Goodbread on Twitter *. Hernan Perez Jersey

Its a no-win situation for Scotland manager Craig Levein tomorrow night as his depleted side takes on Brian Kerrs Faroe Islands at Pittdorie.The timing of the friendly has come under criticism from many domestic managers with most teams facing a grueling domestic schedule at this time of year.Levein has been forced into a number of changes for tomorrows game and the Scotland bo s was faced with even more problems when there were 9 extra call-offs after this weekends fixtures. Rangers bo s Walter Smith requested that Levein left out a few of his big stars as the Gers face a hectic schedule in the SPL and Champions League with a threadbare squad. Scotland will be without Allan McGregor, David Weir, Lee McCulloch and Kenny Miller who were left out initially by Levein, but they are joined by Steven Whittaker and Steven Naismith who both picked up injuries in the 2-0 win against Aberdeen on Saturday.Also withdrawing from the squad this weekend were Christophe Berra, Graeme Dorrans, Matt Gilks, James Morrison, Alan Hutton and Chris Burke who all picked up knocks over the last few days.Revised Scotland SquadGoalkeepers: Bell (Kilmarnock), Gordon (Sunderland)Defenders: Bardsley (Sunderland), S Caldwell (Wigan), Wilson (Liverpool), Crainey (Blackpool), Kenneth (Dundee Utd), Caddis (Swindon), Saunders (Motherwell)Midfielders: Adam (Blackpool), Bannan (Aston Villa), Commons (Derby), Fletcher (Manchester United), Maloney (Celtic), Robson (Middlesbrough), Bryson (Kilmarnock), Davidson (St Johnstone), McArthur (Wigan)Forwards: Goodwillie (Dundee United), Kyle (Hearts), Mackie (Queens Park Rangers)Even with a makeshift squad in a meaningle s friendly, defeat tomorrow is not an option. Its a strange game because a win tomorrow means nothing to the Scottish fans and I a sume alot of people probably will not take an interest in the fixture, but a defeat could be a national embarra sment and bring back painful memories of the 2-2 draw in the Faroes under Berti Vogts. Under Irish manager Brian Kerr, the Faroes have improved significantly in his time there and they pulled off a superb 1-1 draw with Northern Ireland last month. The Faroes were looking comfortable for the majority of the game and produced a refreshing performance which surprised alot of Eddie Rosario Jersey people.Bannan in action for VillaAs per usual, the national team looks top cla s in the goalkeeping department even without Matt Gilks, Allan McGregor and Neil Alexander with Craig Gordon looking the likely No.1 and the in-form Cameron Bell of Kilmarnock providing a very promising back-up.Defensively, we have a shocking record in friendly matches, and away matches in general, over recent times and the group of defenders selected does not fill me with much confidence. Levein has said he wants to look at players to see what they can bring to the squad, but I still cannot see the logic in calling up Garry Kenneth and Steven Caldwell who are both awful defenders. On a positive note, it is nice to see talented teenager Danny Wilson get a call-up to the national side after an impre sive spell with Rangers and he will likely be a regular in the Scotland side for years to come.In midfield, a few regulars in there like Fletcher, Adam, Robson and Maloney neither whom have stood out in a Scotland jersey. Another positive is the call-up of Aston Villa youngster Barry Bannan who looks an excellent talent and should probably be a regular even at the moment. James McArthurs career has stalled in recent months after his move to Wigan from Hamilton but there is no doubt he is a talented player who can offer alot to the side. The two surprise call-ups were Craig Bryson and Murray Davidson who have both done exceptionally well for their club sides with Bryson now the captain at Kilmarnock.It is very clear that we lack options in attack with only three strikers chosen for tomorrows clash. Jamie Mackie will likely start so that Levein can get a proper look at the QPR hitman who Levein shifted wide-right in that horrific 4-6-0 formation in Prague. Dundee Uniteds young striker David Goodwillie gets a deserved call-up after netting 8 SPL goals so far this season and he is joined by Hearts striker Kevin Kyle who makes a return to the national set-up after nearly 10 years away from the scene.The lack of talent avaliable for Levein is perhaps a sign of the times for Scottish Football, but theres absolutely no doubt it is great to see Bannan, Wilson, Goodwillie, McArthur and Bell in the squad and all of them are just as good as the dro s we get for the competitive fixtures.The game might not have proven popular with domestic managers and alot of supporters, but Levein insists it will give him more information and he will be eager to make amends for the shocking performances against the Czechs and Leichenstein. Will Smith Jersey

The had little to no interest in going Jake Smolinski Jersey outside of the organization to find a replacement for Kevin Stefanski, the offensive coordinator signing on as head coach of the in 2020. Feeling they already have a solution in-house, they've decided to name , per Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, a logical move when considering Kubiak signed on in 2019 as a sistant head coach and offensive adviser.In other words, he knows and offensive weapons like , and quite well, and Kubiak was key in helping the Vikings to a 10-6 record and an appearance in the NFC divisional round, before losing to a team on its way to Super Bowl LIV.Zimmer has a lot of belief in what Kubiak can bring to the table in the role as offensive coordinator, so it was a no-brainer for him.The 58-year-old is well-proven in the league, to say the very least. He has four Super Bowl victories on his resume, including one as a quarterbacks coach for the San Francisco 49ers in the mid-1990s, two as quarterbacks coach and offensive coordinator for the in the late '90s, and one as Broncos head coach in Super Bowl 50. With that kind of offensive football aptitude at the ready, the move to make Kubiak coordinator not only fills the void created by the exit of Stefanski -- it's arguably an upgrade.With his health concerns behind him, Kubiak left the Broncos to rejoin the coaching ranks, and that landed him in Minnesota last season. One year later, he inherits the keys to one of the more potent offenses in the NFL, a group that ranked eighth in the league in 2019. Santiago Casilla Jersey

For the second time in three seasons, the 49ers are heading to the NFC championship game. They defeated the top-seeded Packers13-10 at a snowy Lambeau Field in the divisional round Saturday night.The Niners' offense seemed to go cold at times, but their defense and special teams heated up at the right times.Robbie Gould kicked a 45-yard field goal as time expired to win the game. He remained perfect (20 for 20) on field goal attempts in the postseason. Green Bay quarterback Aaron Rodgers, meanwhile, is now a perfect 0-4 all time against San Francisco in the playoffs.MORE: Gould's game-winning field goal was the only time San Francisco led Saturday. An earlier special teams play a blocked punt returned for a game-tying touchdown with 4:41 left set the Niners up for the win. Green Bay went three-and-out on the ensuing drive, which turned out to their last of the game.Green Bay totaled just 263 yards, including just 67 on the ground. It averaged just 4.9 yards per play. Rodgers was sacked four times. After scoring a touchdown on their opening drive, the Packers went six drives before scoring again, on a field goal by Mason Crosby at the 9:01 mark of the third quarter.The 49ers had their own offensive woes. The Packers registered five sacks on 49ers QB Jimmy Garoppolo, including four on third down. San Francisco totaled just 212 yards (4.1 yards per play) and went 5 for 11 on third down.MORE: Regardle s, San Francisco will play the winner of Sunday's Rams-Bucaneers matchup for the NFC title next weekend. The Niners will be looking for their second Super Bowl berth in three seasons.Sporting News tracked live updates and highlights from the 2022 NFC divisional round game. Read belowfor complete coverage.MORE: Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 F 49ers0031013Packers70031011:08 p.m.: FIELD GOAL 49ers. Robbie Gould's kick splits the uprights from 45 yards out and wins the game for the 49ers, sending them to the NFC title game as the No. 1 seed Packers go down.WALK-OFFRobbie Gould 45-yd FG good .. San Francisco defeats Green Bay 13-10 13 10 F Ss 24/7 (@Sports_24x7_) 11:07 p.m.: The Niners call their final timeout on third-and-8 from the Green Bay 27 as the field goal unit comes out to try and hit a walk off field goal as time expires.11:06 p.m.: San Francisco calls a timeout with 13 seconds left and second-and-9 upcoming from the Green Bay 28.11:06 p.m.: The timeout pays off as Deebo Samuel picks up 9 yards on third-and-7 and gets the easy first down.11:03 p.m.: The Packers call their final timeout with 1:03 left and the Niners staring at third-and-7 from their own 38 as they also call a timeout.11:01 p.m.: Another big gain, this time its Garoppolo to Samuel for 14 yards as the Niners cro s midfield. First-and-10 from the Green Bay 41 upcoming.After 2-min warning, On 2nd & 5, Garoppolo 14-yd pa s to Deebo Samuel 10 10 Q4 Ss 24/7 (@Sports_24x7_) 10:58 p.m.: Garoppolo finds Kittle again. This time it's for 12 yards to the San Francisco 41, followed by a 4 yard run by Elijah Mitchell to make it second-and-6 from the 45 with the two-minute warning on tap.Jimmy Garoppolo 12-yd pa s to George Kittle 10 10 Q4 Ss 24/7 (@Sports_24x7_) 10:55 p.m.: Rodgers airs it out to Adams way downfield, but can't convert. It's now fourth-and-16 for the Packers after a false start on the punt. Travis Benjamin returns it to the San Francisco 29.On 3rd & 11, Rodgers incomplete to Adams .. 3 & Out 10 10 Q4 Ss 24/7 (@Sports_24x7_) 10:52 p.m.: On second-and-11 from the Green Bay 24, Rodgers' pa s is nearly picked. Third-and-11 upcoming.10:48 p.m.: PUNT BLOCK TD 49ers. Punting from the Green Bay 12, the Niners get in ther and block it as Talanoa Hufanga picks it up and scores from 6 yards out. 49ers 10, Packers 10 with 4:41 left in the game.SCORE BIG PLAY Bojorquez block by Jordan Willis recovered by Talanoa Hufanga for a 6-yd TD 10 10 Q4 Ss 24/7 (@Sports_24x7_) 10:47 p.m.: After taking over on downs, Rodgers is sacked on third-and-8 and Green Bay is forced to punt and the punt is blocked.10:39 p.m.: On fourth-and-1 from the Green Bay 19, Kyle Shanahan keeps the offense on the field but it doesn't pay off. Turnover on downs and the Packers take over on their own 20 with 6:10 left.On 4th & 1, Mitchell rush loses 1-yd TFL Gary & Campbell .. turnover on downs 3 10 Q4 Ss 24/7 (@Sports_24x7_) 10:37 p.m.: On third-and-11, Garoppolo makes a nice throw to Kittle Blank Jersey for 24 yards. Now first-and-10 from the Green Bay 28 as the Niners are marching after picking up another 5.BIG PLAY On 3rd & 11, Garoppolo 24-yd pa s to George Kittle 3 10 Q4 Ss 24/7 (@Sports_24x7_) 10:34 p.m.: Fullback KyleJuszczyk takes it for 13 yards to the San Francisco 49. Longest run of the night so far for the Niners as they near midfield.Juszczyk 13-yd rush moves the sticks 3 10 Q4 Ss 24/7 (@Sports_24x7_) 10:33 p.m.: The Niners take over at their own 28 following the field goal.10:30 p.m.: FIELD GOAL PACKERS. This time Crosby's kick is good and the Packers extend their lead. Packers 10, 49ers 3 with 11:27 left in the game. That capped off a 14-play, 57 yard drive and it took over nine minutes.10:29 p.m.: Arik Armstead sacks Rodgers on third-and-goal from the 8. He's driven back 7 yards to the 15 and the field goal unit comes out for a 33-yard attempt.10:28 p.m.: The Packers get driven back after a false start. An Aaron Jones catch makes it third-and-goal from the 8.10:25 p.m.: On third-and-4, Allen Lazard makes a nice diving catch for a first down. His first catch of the night and it's now first-and-goal for the Packers from the San Francisco 7.End third quarter: Packers 7, 49ers 310:21 p.m.: The Packers are now officially in the red zone after a holding penalty against San Francisco. First-and-10 from the San Francisco 19 to end the third quarter. One quarter left until we know the first team playing for the NFC championship.10:19 p.m.: On first-and-10 from the San Francisco 49, Rodgers hits Adams for 25 yards down to the San Francisco 24. The Packers call a timeout with 33 seconds left.: on FOX: NFL (@NFL) 10:14 p.m.: On third-and-1, Aaron Jones barrels ahead for a first down. Now first-and-10 from their own 39 for the Packers, who could see his usage get an uptick. AJ Dillon is questionable to return with a chest injury.10:11 p.m.: After nearly throwing a pick-6, Garoppolo is sacked on third down for the fourth time tonight. The two sides trade three-and-outs as Green Bay takes back over at their own 28.10:05 p.m.: Green Bay's first drive of the third quarter is a three-and-out. The Packers will punt and San Francisco takes over at its own 28. Six straight scorele s po se sions now for the Packers.10:02 p.m.: FIELD GOAL 49ers. The Niners cut into the defecit as Robbie Gould nails a 29-yard field goal. Packers 7, 49ers 3 with 8:13 left in the third.9:59 p.m.: Deebo Samuel now down on the field and getting tended to as the game cuts to a commercial break.9:55 p.m.: Elijah Mitchell peels off a nice run and a stiff arm, but he gets called for a facemask penalty and drives the Niners back 15 yards. That, coupled with an illegal formation call sets uo second-and-19 from the Green Bay 26 now for the Niners.Mitchell 9-yd rush pushed back 15-yds by face mask penalty 0 7 Q3 Ss 24/7 (@Sports_24x7_) 9:53 p.m.: Consistent gains here for the Niners to open the second half. Four straight runs and gains of 4, 5, 4 and 1 yard. The second-and-9 pa s goes to Deebo Samuel for 18 yards. San Francisco now inside the red zone at the Green Bay 17.On 2nd & 9, Garoppolo 18-yd catch & run by Samuel 0 7 Q3 Ss 24/7 (@Sports_24x7_) 9:50 p.m.: Deebo Samuel returns the second half kick 45 yards and the Niners immediately start the second half at midfield.Deebo returning kicks?! What can't he do? : on FOX: NFL (@NFL) Halftime: Packers 7, 49ers 0 9:36 p.m.: FIELD GOAL BLOCKED. Jimmie Ward blocks the field goal, so it remains a 7-0 game at halftime. San Francisco will start the second half with the ball.BLOCKED.It stays a 7-point game at halftime. : on FOX: NFL (@NFL) 9:35 p.m.: The field goal unit for Green Bay comes on with three seconds left in the half as the Niners take a timeout ahead of the impending 39-yard try.9:33 p.m.: On third-and-3 from their own 3, Rodgers hits Aaron Jones 75 yards downfield. Now first-and-10 Green Bay from the San Francisco 14.AARON GOES DEEP TO AARON FOR 75. : on FOX: NFL (@NFL) 9:30 p.m.: INTERCEPTION PACKERS. Garoppolo is under pre sure and avoids the sack, but as he rolls out, his pa s intended for Kittle is picked off near the end zone. Green Bay ball at their own 6 with 44 seconds left in the half.TURNOVER Garoppolo intended for Kittle intercepted by Adrian Amos 0 7 Q2 Ss 24/7 (@Sports_24x7_) 9:28 p.m.: Kittle with another big catch. This one goes for 12 up to the Green Bay 9 with 1:09 left in the half as Green Bay calls a timeout.Garoppolo 12-yd pa s to George Kittle .. 1st & Goal 0 7 Q2 Ss 24/7 (@Sports_24x7_) After the 2-min warning, On 2nd & 4, Deebo Samuel 4-yd rush moves the sticks 0 7 Q2 Ss 24/7 (@Sports_24x7_) 9:27 p.m.: The first play out of the two-minute warning is a pitch to Deebo Samuel who breaks a tackle for 4 yards and a first down.9:23 p.m.: Garoppolo completes a 16-yard pa s to Elijah Mitchell, who's finally breaking out on this drive. Now first-and-10 for San Francisco from the Green Bay 25 as the two-minute warning arrives.9:21 p.m.: The Niners convert on third down for the first time in five attempts tonight on an outside run by Elijah Mitchell. The Niners are officially acro s midfield for the first time at the Green Bay 47.On 2nd & 8, Mitchell 7-yd rush 0 7 Q2 Ss 24/7 (@Sports_24x7_) 9:19 p.m.: Kittle makes a heck of a catch beyond the chains as he makes a leaping, one-handed catch. First first down of the night for the Niners on the gain of 15. First-and-10 now from the San Francisco 40.Unreal grab by George Kittle! : on FOX: NFL (@NFL) 9:14 p.m.: Rodgers flips it out to Jones on third down as he picks up 9, but Green Bay keeps the offense on the field and gets a delay of game, so they'll punt it away. San Francisco takes over at its own 23 with 6:41 left in the half.On 3rd & 12, Rodgers 10-yd pa s to Jones 0 7 Q2 Ss 24/7 (@Sports_24x7_) 9:12 p.m.: Rodgers is sacked on second down to make it third-and-12. Green bay takes its first timeout of the half.On 2nd & 11, Rodgers 1-yd sack by Nick Bosa 0 7 Q2 Ss 24/7 (@Sports_24x7_) 9:09 p.m.: Rodgers hits Davante Adams for 8 yards on third-and-6 and an easy first down. Now first-and-10 for the Packers from their 38.9:04 p.m.: For the third time tonight, Garoppolo is sacked on third down. That's now four drives so far for the Niners with no first downs and -10 total yards. They punt it away yet again and Green Bay takes over at its own 11.9:00 p.m.: This time it's Rodgers who's sacked on third down. Green Bay goes three-and-out to start the second quarter. San Francisco takes over at its own 34.8:59 p.m.: The Packers get flagged for a false start to open the secondquarter.Now third-and-8 from their 19.End first quarter: Packers 7, 49ers 08:54 p.m.: Garoppolo with a nice pa s to Jauan Jennings, but he can't haul it in, either. Another three-and-out for the Niners as they punt it away and Green Bay takes over at its own 17 with 15 seconds left in the quarter.8:53 p.m.: George Kittle with a brutal drop in the middle of the field as he's wide open. Would've been the first big play of the night for the Niners. Instad it's third-and-12.8:48 p.m.: The Packers go three-and-out for the first time tonight as they punt it away on fourth-and-6. The 49ers take over at their own 38 with 1:16 left in the first quarter.8:45 p.m.: Another third down sack for the Packers' defense and the Niners punt it away. Green Bay takes over at its own 16.8:44 p.m.: After the review, the ruling of fumble is wiped out and changed to incomplete pa s. Now third-and-5 for the Niners from their 47.8:40 p.m.: FUMBLE 49ERS. Rasul Douglas knocks the ball out of the hands of Brandon Aiyuk and the Packers take back over as the two teams trade fumbles on back-to-back drives. Currently under review.On 2nd & 5, Garoppolo pa s to Aiyuk, Douglas strips the ball fumble recovered by Barnes .. under review 0 7 Q1 Ss 24/7 (@Sports_24x7_) 8:36 p.m.: FUMBLE PACKERS. Fred Warner punches the ball out of Marcedes Lewis' hands as the Niners take back over at their own 42 with 3:51 left in the first.. forces the turnover! : on FOX: NFL (@NFL) 8:34 p.m.: Another big run for Aaron Jones. This one for 14 and the Packers are nearing midfield at their own 46.On 2nd & 3, Aaron Jones 14-yd rush 0 7 Q1 Ss 24/7 (@Sports_24x7_) 8:30 p.m.: On third-and-12, Jimmy Garoppolo is sacked. Wipes out good starting field position as Za'Darius Smith gets home and drives Garoppolo to the ground. The Niners punt it away and Green Bay takes over at its own 25 looking to add on to the score.Did someone say Za'Darius Smith is back? : on FOX: NFL (@NFL) 8:27 p.m.: JaMychal Hasty returns the ball 30 yards and San Francisco starts this game at its own 40.JaMychal Hasty 32-yd kick return to SF 40 0 7 Q1 Ss 24/7 (@Sports_24x7_) 8:27 p.m.: An impre sive stat from that opening drive for Green Bay.Green Bay didn't have a single third down. Tim Kawakami (@timkawakami) 8:23 p.m.: TOUCHDOWN PACKERS. AJ Dillon punches it in from 6 yards out and the Packers jump out to an early lead. Packers 7, 49ers 0 on a 10-play drive that featured five runs and five pa ses. 9:25 left in the quarter as the Niners are set to take over.A.J. Dillon being A.J. Dillon. open with a 10-play TD drive! : on FOX: NFL (@NFL) 8:22 p.m.: Another catch by Adams. He's up to three catches for 35 yards on this drive as Green Bay is up to the San Francisco 11.8:20 p.m.: A 10-yard completion to Adams puts Green Bay just outside the red zone at the San Francisco 23.8:19 p.m.: Aaron Rodgers hits Jones out of the backfield for 19 yards and the Packers cro s midfield to the Niners' 33.8:17 p.m.: Aaron Jones and Davante Adams getting involved early. A 4-yard run for Jones and a 14-yard catch for Adams makes it first-and-10 Green Bay from their 49.8:16 p.m.: The 49ers win the to s and defer. Green Bay starts this game at its own 31.Date:Saturday, Jan. 22Kickoff: 8:15p.m. ETThe 49ers vs. Packersdivisional round gamewill begin at 8:15p.m. ET from Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wis.TV channel (national): FoxTV channel (Green Bay): WLUKTV channel (San Francisco): KTVULive stream: Fox Sports App, This NFC showdown will air nationally on Fox. Joe Buck will serve as the play-by-play voice while Hall of Famer Troy Aikman joins him in the booth as an analyst. Erin Andrews and Tom Rinaldi will be reporting from the sidelines.In Canada, viewers can watch 49ers vs. Packers with a subscription toDAZN, .DIVISIONAL ROUND PICKS:| Divisional roundSaturday, Jan. 22Matchup Time (ET) Network Stream Bengals 19, Titans 164:30 p.m.CBS49ers 13, Packers 108:15 p.m.FoxSunday, Jan. 23Matchup Time (ET) Network Stream Buccaneers vs. Rams3 p.m.NBCChiefs vs. Bills6:30 p.m.CBSConference championshipsSunday, Jan. 30Matchup Time (ET) Network Stream AFC championship game3:05 p.m. ETCBSParamount+, NFC championship game6:40 p.m. ETFoxFox Sports app, Super Bowl 56Sunday, Feb. 13Matchup Time (ET) Network Stream Super Bowl 566:30 p.m. ETNBCNBC Sports app, Jason Kipnis Jersey

Coaches often tell their players to "dig deep" when they need that extra effort at the end of the game. I decided to do just that in finishing my list of 200-plus senior prospects with the potential to be selected in the 2016 .The list of prospects in the "Late rounds" category might not include many big names in the college football world right now, but they could surprise this fall -- and maybe next summer in training camp -- as teams look for rookies to fill roster spots or stash on the practice squad as a "redshirt."Vernon Adams, QB, OregonAdams will be yet another weapon in the Ducks' wide-open attack. Though small for the position (listed at 6-foot, 190 pounds), Adams won numerous FCS honors in three years at EWU, completing 65 percent of his pa ses for more than 10,000 yards and a whopping 110 touchdowns. He makes throws at every level, keeps his eyes downfield when pre sured and eats up yards with his feet -- but only when nece sary. Seneca Wallace was of similar stature coming out of college and he enjoyed a long NFL career. Someone could give Adams that same shot.Davonte Allen, WR, MarshallOne of the best big-play receivers to suit up for Marshall since Randy Mo s, Allen (6-2, 200) averaged 24.7 yards per catch in 2014. He mi sed four games with a collarbone injury, so he managed just 22 catches on the year (for 544 yards!) with four scores. But his ability to track the ball and win 50/50 situations with strong hands makes him an intriguing prospect.Alex Balducci, DT, OregonBalducci's statistics won't put him on any All-American (or maybe even all-conference) teams; he started 15 games for the Ducks last season and managed just 18 tackles (three for lo s). But NFL teams will see him as a late-round value, playing the role of space-eater (6-4, 321) with decent enough feet to keep gaps plugged and squeeze the pocket.Robert Booker, G/C, Mi souri StateThis two-time All-Mi souri Valley Conference pick and FCS All-American has played center and guard for the Bearcats. Booker (6-3, 312) has the strength to earn playing time in either spot at the next level, though he will project best in the pivot unle s he blows teams away with athleticism in postseason work.Travis Britz, DT, Kansas StateA two-time honorable mention All-Big 12 pick by league coaches, Britz (6-4, 293) is tough against the run and is willing to hustle his way into the backfield when the opportunity presents itself (11.5 tackles for lo s, six sacks the past two seasons). Scouts for 3-4 teams will look at him as a potential defensive end, especially if he's healthy enough (he mi sed the end of 2014 with an ankle injury) to display the nece sary athleticism in postseason workouts.De'Vondre Campbell, DE/OLB, MinnesotaWiry and strong at 6-5 and 241 pounds, Campbell is just scratching the surface of his potential. Though you'd expect a linebacker of that size to be purely a pa s rusher, the Hutchinson Community College transfer moves better than expected in the open field. He should be drafted, given the combination of his agility in tracking down ball carriers in the second level (75 tackles in 2014) and ability to make plays in the backfield (6.5 tackles for lo s, 2.5 sacks).Rashon Ceaser, WR, Louisiana-MonroeIt's probable that you've never heard of Ceaser, even though he was a first-team All-Sun Belt pick last season (77 catches, 872 yards, three touchdowns). But if I were to say that he could be a late-round version of in the NFL, you'd be interested, right? Ceaser needs to show he has consistent hands, as he already has the physicality and quickne s to own the middle of the field.Ben Curtis, OT, DelawareAt 6-5 and 290 pounds, it's clear that Curtis must get stronger to compete in the NFL on an every-down basis -- even though he regularly uses his length and agility to hold off defenders at the FCS level. If he adds weight after his third season as a starter (two seasons as a starting left tackle and one season, plus a few games as a freshman, as a starting right tackle) and shows teams at the NFL that he can hold 300-plus pounds, they will see his potential as an athletic left tackle.Braxton Deaver, TE, DukeWhen healthy, Deaver is one of the better receiving tight ends in the country. The problem is that he hasn't been healthy often enough, mi sing the 2012 (torn ACL in winter and broken thumb/fractured patella in summer) and 2014 (torn ACL) seasons due to injury. Deaver (6-5, 240) had a third-team All-ACC season in 2013, using his strong hands and speed to catch 46 pa ses for 600 yards and four scores.Donte Deayon, CB, Boise StateYes, he's listed at 5-9 and 150 pounds. But anyone who has seen Deayon play knows he would take on any receiver at any time, tackling them in the open field or out-leaping them for jump balls downfield. The two-time second-team All-Mountain West pick has intercepted six pa ses and broken up nine others in each of the last two seasons. Deayon returned a punt for a touchdown in 2014, as well; special teams will be his ticket to an NFL playing field until his coaches trust him against pro receivers on an every-down basis.Reggie Diggs, WR, RichmondAlthough Diggs (6-4, 200) contributed during his first two years on campus, he exploded onto the scene in his first year as a full-time starter in 2014, garnering second-team All-Colonial Athletic A sociation honors with 85 catches for 1,157 yards and seven touchdowns. Even if he doesn't get much separation from his man downfield, his height and jumping ability allow him to go up top to snag the pa s. If he uses his frame to beat corners down the sideline again this season and performs well during an all-star game in January, he should earn the respect of coaches and scouts alike.Brandon Doughty, QB, Western KentuckyDoughty, the 2014 Conference USA MVP and Sammy Baugh Award winner as the nation's top quarterback, has an innate ability to find places to throw the ball. He pa sed for 4,830 yards and 49 touchdowns last season, while only throwing 10 picks in 552 attempts. Doughty (6-3, 220) doesn't po se s a rocket arm, but has the quick feet, fast delivery, and no-fear mentality that a succe sful NFL quarterback needs. If he can digest an NFL playbook, Doughty should at least be a long-time backup, and maybe more.Ejiro Ederaine, OLB, Fresno StateInjuries to both shoulders limited Ederaine in 2014, yet he still managed to start all 14 games, making 64 tackles (12.5 for lo s). An excellent athlete with NFL size (6-3, 234), Ederaine moves well in coverage, stands strong against the run and also attacks the quarterback when healthy (10 sacks in a second-team All-Mountain West 2013 season). However, if teams aren't comfortable with his medical situation, he might be relegated to a later pick than his talent indicates. Check out the top 10 players from Louisville to play in the NFL. Aaron Epps, OT, LouisvilleEpps, a former high school basketball player, has the look of a hoops star, and he had a limited role with the due to injury and depth on the line in his first three seasons. His 6-7, 288-pound frame has room to fill out, however, and his play after taking over the starting right tackle job halfway through last season caught the eyes of scouts. Epps must add weight to Buster Posey Jersey his length and keep his foot quickne s to fulfill his potential; if he bulks up after the season to show teams he can carry 300 pounds, they'll consider him worthy of a late-round pick.Blake Frohnapfel, QB, UMa sWith Rakeem Cato eating up playing time at Marshall, Frohnapfel (pronounced FROH-nap-ul) decided to head to Ma sachusetts for his final two seasons. He excelled in his first year as a starter, throwing for 3,345 yards and 23 touchdowns despite mi sing the final two games of the year with an ankle injury. Frohnapfel has pro size (6-6, 229), a strong arm and good touch over the top; he's also more mobile than you'd expect. Another solid season, maybe with improved accuracy (55.1 completion percentage in 2014), should land him a draft slot.Reggie Gilbert, DE, ArizonaAfter starting 21 games as an undersized defensive tackle for the Wildcats, Gilbert moved outside last season. His statistics weren't mind-boggling (49 tackles, 5.5 for lo s, three sacks), but he sets the edge with strength and uses his strength and natural bend to turn the corner as a pa s rusher. He should be a solid late-round strong-side end prospect for 4-3 teams.Dillon Gordon, TE/OL, LSUGordon weighs nearly as much as an interior lineman (6-4, 295) but is really better suited at tight end. He has managed to catch just six pa ses (none in 2014) in his career -- but the low catch total doesn't mean he's rarely open. Gordon puts up enough fight as a blocker to be a help in the running game and a potential threat in play-action situations; he'll definitely have a role to play if he lands on an NFL team with a power-run scheme.Johnathan Gray, RB, TexasGray's career has not been as prolific as was expected of the top high school recruit in the country. Nonethele s, this year he should get the majority of carries for the Longhorns for the first time since his freshman season, when he earned honorable mention All-Big 12 honors (710 rush yards, three touchdowns). Gray (5-11, 215) tore his right Achilles tendon halfway through his sophomore season, and just began to show glimpses of his explosive running style near the end of 2014. Watch for a big year if he's fully confident in his ability to cut and burst once past the line of scrimmage.Ike Harris, OT, East CarolinaIsaac "Ike" Harris III is the son of a former draft pick (12th round, 1991), but has made his own name by earning second team All-AAC honors in his second year as a starter at left tackle for the Pirates. Harris is a fair athlete who is difficult to beat in pa s pro on the first move, and he'll get after his man (and others in his way) in the run game. Recovery speed has been an i sue, however; moving his feet throughout plays consistently to adjust on the fly during his senior year will give scouts a reason to believe he can be an NFL contributor.Joel Heath, DT, Michigan StateAn impre sive physical specimen, Heath stands at 6-6, 293 pounds and has solid straight-line speed for his size. He grew into this build over his first three years on campus, and then earned a starting nod inside in 2014 (29 tackles, five for lo s, 2.5 sacks). Continued growth and improved strength holding his ground and shedding blocks against pro-caliber Big Ten guards this season should convince scouts he can earn playing time as a three- or five-technique at the next level.Tyler Higbee, TE, Western KentuckyWestern Kentucky has had a bit of a run at the tight end position the past few years, with drafted by the in 2013 and getting his shot with the this summer. Higbee could be as good as either of them, as the converted receiver continues to add weight to his frame (6-5, 250). Given the chance to show his stuff against Marshall last season, Higbee made six catches for 99 yards and three scores. With quarterback Brandon Doughty back for his senior year, Higbee looks to use his height, agility, and route-running skills to put up big numbers.Alex Huettel, G/C, Bowling GreenHuettel's physique (6-4, 309) isn't among the best in this cla s, and he likely won't test well at the NFL . But as an intelligent player and flat-out mauler, he'll be a favorite of NFL offensive line coaches. MAC coaches voted him second-team all-conference the past two seasons, his second and third as a starter at guard. He has potential at center, as well, which gives him the versatility to stick as a reserve lineman as an NFL rookie despite likely being a late-round selection.Randall Jette, CB, UMa sJette (5-11, 180) has already defended 36 pa ses (seven interceptions, 29 breakups) in this first three years with the Minutemen, and looks to reach the 50 mark this season. Jette (prounounced JET), a 2014 second-team All-MAC selection, will receive more recognition for his persistence in coverage as UMa s charges toward a conference title this season under former NFL and college coordinator Mark Whipple (who coached UMa s to a Division I-AA title in his first stint with the team).Michael Jordan, CB, Mi souri WesternAs if people didn't already take a second glance at Jordan with his well-known name, he's earned additional looks with his play the past three seasons for the Griffons. The two-time first-team All-MIAA pick has 138 tackles, 11 interceptions, and 25 pa s breakups in just three years, utilizing his size (6-0, 200) and physicality to own his man on the outside. Scouts are familiar with the Jordan family already, as his older brothe, Reggie, attended the combine as a tight end out of MWU; now it's time for Michael to step into the spotlight. Ryan Kelly, C, AlabamaKelly had big shoes to fill when he took over for Rimington Trophy winner in 2013, but he's handled the pre sure quite well. A taller, athletic pivot (6-5, 297), Kelly was voted honorable mention All-SEC by league media last season, and even won the team's Offensive Player of the Week award twice during the year. He can anchor against strong tackles on the line but also reach second-level defenders to neutralize them. Kelly's really impre sive when getting his body around to seal an inside lane. That sort of versatility will win over NFL scouts over the course of the year. Take a look at the top 10 players from West Virginia to play in the NFL. Nick Kwiatkoski, ILB, West VirginiaThe heart and soul of the Mountaineers' defense (and not to mention the leading tackler), Kwiatkoski brings toughne s to the field and is an explosive tackler when attacking gaps inside (11.5 tackles for lo s among his 103 stops in 2014). He can play inside or outside at the next level, and should be a special-teams demon, which is what NFL teams look for when evaluating late-round linebacker prospects.Richard Leonard, CB, Florida InternationalA Miami product, Leonard has had an impact at FIU as a returner and cornerback since the start of his career (although he mi sed 2013 due to academic ineligibility), especially in his first-team All-Conference USA junior campaign (five interceptions, seven pa s breakups, four fumble recoveries, 25.7-yard kick-return average, 23.8-yard punt-return average with one touchdown). Though shorter than most NFL teams prefer at the position (5-9, 189), there's no doubting his foot quickne s, closing ability and competitive fire. His elusivene s as a returner should earn him extra looks.Jordan Lomax, FS, IowaAfter three years of waiting his turn to get on the field, including a lost 2012 season due to a spring shoulder injury, Lomax finally earned the starting nod in 2014. He put forth an honorable mention All-Big Ten effort, making 92 tackles, intercepting a pa s and breaking up six others. Lomax uses his compact build (5-10, 205) and tenacious attitude to punish defenders coming into his space, but the former cornerback has the footwork to be effective in coverage as well.Max McCaffrey, WR, DukeYes, Max is the son of longtime receiver Ed McCaffrey. It doesn't take long to see the resemblance on the field, either. At 6-2, 200 pounds, Max is effective working the middle of the field and makes it difficult for defensive backs to bring him down by running behind his pads. He hasn't put up huge numbers for the Blue Devils (65 career catches for 698 yards and seven scores), but with his pedigree and intelligence, he should get a shot -- especially if he tests well athletically after the season.James McFarland, DE/OLB, TCUOnly a part-time starter in 2014, McFarland still led the team with seven sacks to go along with 12 tackles for lo s. Like most TCU ends, he plays standing up and with his hand on the ground, but his NFL future is as a 3-4 strong-side linebacker. McFarland has some quickne s to get around blockers, as well as the punch and long arms to get leverage against run plays. Sometimes he uses that leverage to drive his man straight into the quarterback. With another productive season of using that strength to his full advantage, scouts will believe he can play right away. Take a look at the best photos from the 2015 college football fall camps. LaDarrell McNeil, FS/SS, Tenne seeThe Volunteers have relied on McNeil (6-1, 206) since his freshman year to hold down a starting spot in the secondary. Having worked at free and strong safety during his career, McNeil shows the toughne s and athleticism to fill in wherever needed (76 tackles, two interceptions in 2014). He'll likely contribute on special teams early in his NFL career, but should push for playing time before too long.Paul McRoberts, WR, Southeast Mi souri StateMcRoberts earns respect from his team and league coaches as a captain and first-team All-Ohio Valley Conference pick in 2014. Scouts are impre sed with his mental and physical toughne s, as he has suffered great lo s, losing his father to a sudden heart attack at age nine and his brother more recently. He returned from a Lisfranc injury last year to put up two 100-yard performances in three weeks after being out for five weeks. McRoberts' long strides (6-3, 197) make it difficult for defensive backs to stay with him downfield and his proficiency as a basketball player (he played one year for SEMO after a stellar high school career) shows he has the short-area quickne s to excel against man coverage. Marshall Morgan, K, GeorgiaMorgan (6-3, 194) set the SEC record for most consecutive field goals made with 20, a streak that started in 2013 and ended in the second week of last season. Though his field goal percentage dropped in 2014, from 91.7 percent (19-of-22) to 76.2 (16-of-21), scouts should not forget the le son learned from the last Georgia kicker drafted, . Despite a lackluster senior year (21 of 35 on field goals), Walsh has become one of the league's best kickers. If Morgan can connect regularly in 2015 from long distance (he has made 55- and 56-yard kicks in his career) as well as prove he can be a weapon on kickoffs (31 touchbacks in 2014) and in clutch situations (like the game-winner against Tenne see in 2013), he'll get his shot to follow in Walsh's footsteps.Aaron Morris, G, Ole Mi sThe Rebels hope that Morris stays out of the training room through his entire senior season so they can compete in the SEC. A bullish blocker from the left guard spot, Morris (6-5, 315) is a solid pa s protector and a load in the run game who linebackers are not happy to see when he hits the second level. But he's torn his left ACL in each of the past two seasons, mi sing all but the opener in 2013 and failing to suit up for the team's bowl game last year. Power-running scheme teams in the NFL will have interest in Morris, especially if he can dre s for all of Ole Mi s' contests this year.Jordan Payton, WR, UCLAPayton is the Bruins' most dependable receiver, leading the team with 67 catches for 957 yards and seven touchdowns in his second year as a starter in 2014. The honorable mention All-Pac-12 selection can work inside, using his thicker build (6-1, 213) to break through contact at the line and downfield, while also po se sing the footwork to execute crisp routes. If he shows better speed than anticipated this season and in workouts, Payton could rise up boards.Aaron Peck, WR, Fresno StatePeck has grown as a receiver, physically and mentally, each year with the Bulldogs. He grabbed 32 catches for 419 yards and three scores in 2014, and could take a primary role now that has moved on to the NFL. Peck's frame 6-3, 217 is NFL-worthy, and a strong senior season displaying the speed and agility to be a factor after the catch will help him rise up draft boards.Kevin Pierre-Louis, SS, Colorado StateIt's quite simple: This guy likes to hit people. Often lined up in a two-deep formation (thus only 4.5 career tackles for lo s), he takes correct angles and brings all of his force downhill to stop ball carriers in their tracks. He actually looks (6-1, 215) and plays like a linebacker, making 162 stops over the past two seasons. Another productive season and good postseason workouts should land him a fifth- or sixth-round slot as a reserve defensive back and special teamer. Take a look at the top 10 players from Mi si sippi State to play in the NFL. Dak Prescott, QB, Mi si sippi StateRayne Dakota "Dak" Prescott (6-2, 230) proved himself to be an excellent college quarterback in 2014, breaking all sorts of statistical records (4,435 yards of total offense, 27 touchdown pa ses, 61.6 completion percentage) and helping his team to a 10-3 record. There's little question about his leadership abilities or his toughne s as a runner, but scouts will want to better awarene s in the pocket and more accuracy in tight windows in his senior year if he is to be a middle-round pick.Luke Rhodes, ILB, William & MaryRhodes (6-2, 242) is the only player in the FCS to be selected to the Butkus Award watch list. He's a two-time first-team All-Colonial Athletic A sociation pick and team captain, not only racking up nearly 100 tackles in 2013 and 2014 but also flying into lead blockers to allow his teammates to make plays. While not an explosive athlete, Rhodes has enough speed to fill a gap, is agile enough to slip second-level blocks, and hustles to the sideline. As a special-teams ace and steady presence on defense, he'll be a tough cut in training camp.Brandon Ro s, RB, MarylandRo s is an underutilized a set for the Terrapins who rushed for just 419 yards last season because he had just two games with 10 or more rushes (85 total for the year). He has an ideal compact build (5-10, 205), shifty feet in the hole and the ability to set up and blow by tacklers in the open field as both a runner and receiver (14 catches, 212 yards, one score in 2014). He did manage 776 yards and four touchdowns in a greater role in 2013, however; more opportunities this season will put him on scouts' radars.Brandon Sheperd, WR, Oklahoma StateSheperd (6-1, 195) staked his claim as one of the best receivers in the Big 12 with his seven-catch, 156-yard, two-touchdown effort in OSU's win over Oklahoma last fall. Though he didn't earn postseason accolades after averaging 18.9 yards per catch as a junior (39 catches, 737 yards, five scores), that won't happen again; scouts will also take note of his toughne s on the outside and playmaking ability after the catch.Jordan Simone, SS, Arizona StateSimone (6-0, 193) decided to walk on at ASU after taking a year off from football once his head coach at Washington State (Paul Wulff) was let go. He became such a problem for the offense while on the scout team that coaches gave him a shot to earn playing time last year -- and he did. League coaches recognized his play last year, as he made 100 tackles, 4.5 for lo s. NFL scouts will want to see if he has the athleticism to play on Sundays, but coaches will push for him late in the draft based on his intelligent play and toughne s. Take a look at the top 10 players from Indiana to play in the NFL. Nate Sudfeld, QB, IndianaEven though Sudfeld (6-6, 240) mi sed about half of his junior year with an injured left (non-throwing) shoulder, there's a bit of buzz about his pro prospects. The brother of tight end po se ses NFL size, a solid arm, and some mobility within the pocket. Scouts would like to see Sudfield improve his completion percentage (60.3 percent in 2013-2014) as well as his touchdown-to-interception ratio (27-12) before considering him a long-time contributor at the next level, but coaches will want to work with his physical tools.Cole Toner, OT, HarvardToner had to deal with current Indianapolis Colt defender during every practice the past couple of seasons, so most opponents on the Ivy League schedule were a piece of cake in comparison. The first-team all-conference selection in 2014 looks like an NFL prospect at 6-7 and 300 pounds, and he shows the toughne s and footwork to win as a run blocker and pa s protector. If he continues to fill out his frame after this season and early in his NFL career, it will help him contribute down the road.Soma Vainuku, FB, USCThe cousin of former USC star and linebacker brings his full effort on every play. He'll emulate a six-foot, 255-pound battering ram while leading the tailback into the hole, gain tough yardage as a runner, catch the ball out of the backfield and then pummel a returner on kick-coverage units. Versatility is a big key for fullbacks trying to make it in the NFL nowadays, so Vainuku should be valued for his multiple contributions to the team.Michael Wakefield, DE/OLB, Florida InternationalA second-team All-Conference USA pick in 2014, Wakefield shows a knack for quickly and smoothly getting off the snap. He had eight sacks and 14.5 tackles for lo s last year using not only his get-off, but also good length and an ability to leverage a blocker and disengage to make the play. Wakefield can play either side of the line despite his average size (6-3, 254), which is a big plus. Coaches will put him through linebacker drills after the season to see how well he moves in space, and that will help determine how high he gets drafted.Derek Watt, FB, WisconsinWatt isn't an athletic freak like his older brother and reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year, , but he'll be a tough cut from an NFL roster. While not a thumping fullback/H-back, he has the athleticism to find targets and create creases for excellent backs such as 2015 first-round pick . Watt is a solid receiver (15 career catches yards for 170 yards in a run-oriented offense) and can contribute on special teams, as well, showing off the tackling skills he po se sed as a second-team USA Today All-American high school linebacker. He played the second half of the 2014 season while recovering from a broken foot in the opener; a healthy senior campaign should help him secure a late-round draft spot.Bryce Williams, TE, East CarolinaWilliams actually walked on for two programs in his career, first for a redshirt season at Marshall in 2011 and then in the fall of 2012 at ECU. In the past two years, he hasn't looked like a walk-on at all, earning all-conference accolades in 2013 (honorable mention) and 2014 (second team). As a fullback in the Pirates' offense the past two years, Williams used his 6-6, 250-pound frame to its fullest in the red zone (four touchdowns), out-leaping smaller defensive backs to attack the ball in the air. Given the chance to show off his hands more regularly as a senior, Williams should be a nice project player worth a look late in the draft.RJ Williamson, SS, Michigan StateAlthough the Spartans' depth at safety kept Williamson out of the starting lineup early in his career, he still stepped in when nece sary to accumulate 70 tackles, three interceptions, and six pa s breakups. When given the chance to start at strong safety last season, Williamson (6-0, 214) stepped up again to make 59 tackles and intercept three pa ses -- two of which he returned for scores. He'll start in 2015 at free safety, where he'll again show his strong tackling ability as well as his ball skills.Jonathan Woodard, DE, Central ArkansasWoodard has terrorized quarterbacks since arriving at UCA, accumulating 25 sacks (among 40 tackles for lo s) in three years. He is a three-time All-Southland Conference pick, its Freshman of the Year in 2012, and its Defensive Player of the Year in 2014. Scouts will be waiting until postseason all-star games, though, to see if he can beat NFL-quality tackles off the snap or disengage on the edge as a strong-side end on a four-man front. Woodard could also add weight to his frame (6-6, 271) in order to shift to a five-technique spot at the next level, as he already shifts inside regularly for the .*Follow Chad Reuter on Twitter *. Gerardo Parra Jersey