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NFL Draft 2018 player rankings – Saquon Barkley worthy of top pick?

By Charles Rahrig V

IOWA CITY, IOWA- SEPTEMBER 23: Running back Saquon Barkley #26 of the Penn State Nittany Lions rushes up field during the third quarter past defensive lineman Cedrick Lattimore #95 of the Iowa Hawkeyes on September 23, 2017 at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. (Photo by Matthew Holst/Getty Images)
IOWA CITY, IOWA- SEPTEMBER 23: Running back Saquon Barkley #26 of the Penn State Nittany Lions rushes up field during the third quarter past defensive lineman Cedrick Lattimore #95 of the Iowa Hawkeyes on September 23, 2017 at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. (Photo by Matthew Holst/Getty Images) /
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IOWA CITY, IOWA- SEPTEMBER 23: Running back Saquon Barkley #26 of the Penn State Nittany Lions breaks a tackle during the third quarter by defensive back Miles Taylor #19 of the Iowa Hawkeyes on September 23, 2017 at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. (Photo by Matthew Holst/Getty Images)
IOWA CITY, IOWA- SEPTEMBER 23: Running back Saquon Barkley #26 of the Penn State Nittany Lions breaks a tackle during the third quarter by defensive back Miles Taylor #19 of the Iowa Hawkeyes on September 23, 2017 at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. (Photo by Matthew Holst/Getty Images) /
4

Christian Wilkins

DT, Clemson

Christian Wilkins and the Clemson defensive line had themselves a game against Boston College on Saturday. Wilkins had six total tackles on the day as he and the line swallowed up the running game.

His numbers don’t reflect how dominant he was. He was consistently getting a great push against Boston College that allowed the front seven to create pressure and give their opposition trouble the entire day.

This is what has been consistent of him all season. Using his athleticism to get the jump and allow those around him to make plays. The Clemson defensive line might be the best in the nation and it starts with him.

Add in the fact that he’s the ultimate teammate and everyone should want this guy on their team. His energy is contagious and it fuels him on each play. There was one play where he did get knocked flat on his back, but other than that it was another good day at the office.

3

Saquon Barkley

RB, Penn State

Saquon Barkley continues to be the most ridiculous man in the NCAA. He has made it very clear that he is coming for the Heisman Trophy award with his huge performances each week this season.

He’s also raising his draft stock because of his power, versatility and speed. On Saturday night, Barkley put the team on his back in a huge win on the road against Iowa. The Nittany Lions needed every yard that they got from their star running back.

Running the ball, he was a machine that couldn’t be brought down. He had 211 yards rushing along with a touchdown. He had one ridiculous 44-yard run where he cut back while running down the sideline to avoid several defenders.

Using his hands, Barkley showed off as well. He finished the night with 94 receiving yards on 12 receptions. Needless to say, not only was he the most reliable man running the ball but also receiving it.

If anyone is curious as to whether or not he’s worth a top pick, he absolutely is. He changes a game instantly when the ball touches his hand and is a rare breed. He’s worth a top pick right now and more.

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