Week 6 had some exciting games, upsets and strong performances from high-end devy prospects. Several running backs posted huge yardage totals including Samaje Perine (214 yards vs Texas), SaQuon Barkley (202 yards vs Maryland), and Myles Gaskin (197 yards vs Oregon). The highlight performer of the week was Tennessee running back Alvin Kamara who stepped in for injured back Jalen Hurd. He posted 127 rushing yards and added 161 receiving yards against Texas A&M. His prize is a matchup against Alabama this week along with a healthy Hurd to join the backfield. Here are the other games to watch in week 7.
Ohio State at Wisconsin
The marquee matchup in college football is where we start. Wisconsin’s is coming off of a bye week so they should be rested from their last matchup against Michigan two week ago. Wisconsin was able to contain the Michigan offense and limit them to several field goal tries, but the Ohio State offense is more explosive. Running backs Mike Weber and Curtis Samuel may have a hard time finding running room. Sophomore receiver Noah Brown has been quiet since his breakout game against Oklahoma three weeks ago with a combined three catches for 31 yards in his last two games. I will be watching to see if these three skill players can make some noise this week.
On the Wisconsin side, this is another tough assignment for senior running back Corey Clement. In four games this season, Clement has racked up 82 carries for 319 yards and 5 touchdowns but has not impressed against Michigan and Michigan State the past two games. If Clement wants to solidify his place as the next Wisconsin running back to break into the NFL, a big game this week would help.
Western Michigan at Akron
This game will be a duel of two strong wide receiver talents in Western Michigan’s Corey Davis and Akron’s Jerome Lane. Senior Corey Davis has been extremely consistent this year with 36 catches for 589 yards and 8 touchdowns. Even with an NFL caliber player like Davis, Western Michigan has focused on the run game this year, limiting Davis’ opportunities.
Jerome Lane broke onto the scene in week 1 with 10 catches for 196 yards and 2 touchdowns but has been quiet the last two weeks with starting quarterback Thomas Woodson out. In these games against Kent State and Miami (OH), backup quarterback Tra’Von Chapman connected with Lane for a combined 3 catches, 29 yards and no scores. Woodson is questionable to return this week and could give Lane a boost.
Mississippi State at BYU
I am excited to watch BYU’s senior running back Jamaal Williams. Even with disappointing games against Utah and UCLA, Williams is 2nd in the FBS with 866 rushing yards. This will be another opportunity to showcase his rushing ability against a SEC defense. If he continues at this pace, it will be tough to ignore him early in 2017 rookie drafts.
