NFL Draft 2018: Updated ranking of the top 32 draft prospects entering Week 9
Kendall Joseph
LB, Clemson
After seven straight games to begin the season, the Clemson Tigers will finally return to action this week. They will take on a Georgia Tech team that will be looking to pull the upset on the road against the Tigers.
To avoid yet another upset, they’ll have to come out with a renewed focus they didn’t have against Syracuse. One player who did bring it in their upset loss to the Orange was stud linebacker Kendall Joseph.
Joseph will probably lead the way in tackles again this week, as he is no stranger to doing so. The Tigers should be fresh off the bye week and feeling ready to rebound after their difficult loss on the road.
With plenty of leaders in the locker room that set an example, this is one of those games where the tackling machine should have a big performance. His ability to wrap up in space has made him one of the best.
Courtland Sutton
WR, SMU
The SMU Mustangs had a statement victory on the road against Cincinnati in overtime. It was also a statement game for star wide receiver Courtland Sutton. Ever since adjusting to being the guy, he’s had four straight games of big performances.
The Mustangs needed every point they could to secure the victory and Sutton helped out with two big touchdowns. He also had 81 yards on six receptions and while it wasn’t another 100-plus yard bonanza, it was a good night nonetheless.
Besides his talent, the fact that’s shown he can adjust to being the focus of the game plan for defenses is huge. Early in the year he struggled a bit when teams locked in on him and it showed with his play.
Now, he’s making the huge plays every week and is putting together great tape that is going to make him one of the first receivers off the board because of his size and his ability to go up and get the football.