| Rutgers coach Kyle Flood describes UConn DE Trevardo Williams as the most disruptive defensive lineman in the Big East. Williams heads our list as top NFL Draft prospect in the conference.(US Presswire) |
Here’s the latest on the conference’s top players who are projected to go from playing on Saturdays to starring on Sundays.
1. DE Trevardo Williams, 6-1, 234, Connecticut
Why he has the top spot: Earlier this week, Rutgers coach Kyle Flood described Williams as the most disruptive defensive lineman in the conference. Williams has Dwight Freeney-type speed off the edge, he just needs to add some extra bulk before entering the next level. The senior defensive lineman notched yet another sack, giving him 6.5 sacks on the season, in last week’s win over Buffalo. Williams needs just two more to set the school’s all-time career mark (27). Saturday’s game at Rutgers could provide a stage for Williams to showcase his pass-rushing moves.
Season stats (five games): 6.5 sacks, 7.5 TFLs, 24 tackles, 1 FF.
Player ranking: Williams is ranked 87th overall and the eighth-highest outside linebacker in CBSSports.com latest player rankings.
Up next: at Rutgers, Saturday 12:00 p.m. ET (ESPN U)
2. DE Walter Stewart, 6-3, 249, Cincinnati
Why he has the second spot: Bearcats coach Butch Jones placed high expectations on Stewart in the preseason by describing the defensive end as the most intense defensive player he’s ever coached. Stewart has lived up to his billing through three games. In last Saturday’s thrilling win over Virginia Tech, Stewart was part of a swarming defense that held Virginia Tech dual-threat quarterback Logan Thomas to 10 yards on nine carries. The senior defensive end recorded a sack, two TFLs and six tackles against the Hokies. If Stewart’s stellar play continues, he may be in consideration for Big East Defensive Player of the Year honors.
Season stats (three games): 3 sacks, 5 TFLs, 17 tackles, 1 FF.
Player ranking: Stewart is ranked 153rd overall and the 17th highest defensive lineman in CBSSports.com’s latest player rankings.
Up next: vs. Miami (Ohio), Saturday 7:00 p.m. ET (ESPN 3).
3. DB Adrian Bushell, 5-11, 187, Louisville
Why he has the third spot: The senior cornerback possesses a nice combination of speed and size and is regarded for his strong ball skills. In Week 4, Bushell earned Big East Defensive Player of the Week honors with seven tackles, a pass breakup and 0.5 TFLs at Florida International. The former University of Florida transfer is currently playing for his third school in his collegiate career and may be flying under the radar of most NFL scouts. Bushell is also an exceptional special teams player. Last season, he came up with a critical blocked FG against West Virginia in leading Louisville to an upset win over the Mountaineers.
Season stats (five games): 25 tackles, 4 pass defenses, 2 fumbles recovered, 0.5 TFLs.
Player ranking: Bushell is ranked 170th overall and 21st among cornerbacks in CBSSports.com latest player rankings.
Up next: at Pittsburgh, Saturday Oct. 13 11:00 a.m. ET (ESPN U)
Keep an eye on: C Mario Benavides, 6-4, 286, Louisville
Why you should watch him? Benavides has started 39 games in his four-year career and is one of the most experienced centers in FBS. Benavides impressed scouts with his athleticism and versatility dating back to his sophomore season.
Despite playing in horrid conditions in two straight games, Louisville hasn't lost the ball once on a fumbled exchange between Benavides and quarterback Teddy Bridgewater. The senior center is also regarded for his ability to hit moving targets effectively and play through the whistle. Benavides bulked up to 318 pounds in 2011 after missing three games with a staph infection. After shedding more than 20 pounds in the offseason, Benavides is lighter and more agile.
Season stats (five games): Sacks allowed (as a unit) 5.0, Cardinals’ rushing yards: 169.2 per game.
Player ranking: Benavides is ranked 174th overall and fourth among centers in CBSSports.com latest player rankings.
Up next: at Pittsburgh, Saturday Oct. 13 11:00 a.m. ET (ESPN U)
For more up-to-the-minute news and analysis on the Big East, follow bloggers Evan Hilbert and Matt Rybaltowski @CBSBigEast.