NFL Draft 2018: Updated ranking of the top 32 draft prospects entering Week 7
Malik Jefferson
OLB, Texas
The Texas Longhorns have played a lot of extra football this year. Once again this past week, the team found themselves in another double overtime affair. This time, the Longhorns were ready for the situation and came out with the huge conference win at home over Kansas State.
And once again, Malik Jefferson continues to roll. The pass rushing product continues to show that consistency everyone has expected from him and he’s been a big reason for their success thus far under Tom Herman.
While a 3-2 record doesn’t jump off the page, they remain undefeated in conference play and continue to build on the little things each week. Jefferson mainly has been a force in the back field each week.
He finished the night with 10 tackles, half of a sack and two tackles for a loss. As draft season approaches, his high level of production and energy in crunch time is going to have his stock on the rise. This defense continues to be tested and they continue to come through.
Sam Hubbard
DE, Ohio State
Tyquan Lewis isn’t the only one that makes a big impact each week on the Ohio State defensive line. On a line full of superstars, Sam Hubbard is the other end that continues to bring it week in and week out.
His stock is up there as well and he should be a high pick too. Against Maryland, the Ohio State defense continued to dominate. Hubbard had four tackles on the night and even had one for a loss too.
If the Buckeyes want to rebound on the season and make a push for the College Football Playoff, their defense is going to have to take it upon them to step up. Thus far, they have rebounded to their one loss with big defensive performances each week.
Part of that starts with Hubbard and Lewis. The duo makes it tough each week for the opposing quarterback and running back. Up next is a road affair against the Nebraska Cornhuskers as the Big Ten West squad tries to pull the upset.