NFL Draft: Scouting the National Championship Between Oregon and Ohio State

Nov 1, 2014; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes wide receiver Devin Smith (9) makes a catch for a touchdown while being defended by Illinois Fighting Illini defensive back Zane Petty (21) during the first quarter against the at Ohio Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

Devin Smith/WR/6’1 199 lbs./#9

Smith has been a key player in the Buckeyes offense for the past three years but seemed to disappear in big games such as last season’s Big Ten Championship and Orange Bowl against Michigan State and Clemson respectively. This season has proven quite the opposite. Smith’s best games? Top 10 matchup against Michigan State, Big Ten Championship against Wisconsin, and Sugar Bowl against Alabama. Another interesting stat, Smith has the most receptions and touchdowns of 20 plus yards within the power five conferences.

He’s a good prospect but not a great prospect because his ceiling isn’t very high and doesn’t put up the same production that exceptional prospects do. Smith has above average straight line speed and can change direction with ease. The most intriguing trait that he possesses is his ability to locate and adjust to the ball while trying to make a grab. Pairing these two attributes make Smith a dangerous deep threat.

Game Prediction:

Smith doesn’t catch many passes, but when he does, they generally are bombs. Expect about 3 grabs, 90 or so yards and a long TD for him against an Ifo Ekpre Olomu-less secondary.

Draft Prediction:

Late Day Two/Early Day Three

Next: Ohio State CB Doran Grant