Famous Idaho Potato Bowl 2017: Did Josh Allen play his way into first-round pick?

Josh Allen led Wyoming to an easy win in the 2017 Famous Idaho Potato Bowl but did he play his way into a first-round pick in the 2018 NFL Draft?

One of the biggest names at quarterback in the 2018 NFL Draft class made it official on Friday afternoon following a blowout win over Central Michigan in the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl.

Josh Allen declared for the draft following Wyoming’s win over Central Michigan and it didn’t come as much of a shock to anyone, but after his disappointing season, stat-wise, some thought he may try to come back and improve his stock.

Did his performance in the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl improve his stock, though?

Honestly, he seems to be a first-round caliber talent regardless. He is mobile, can sling the ball with his strong arm and has the ability to fit it into tight spaces. The 2016 season proved what type of player he can be and usually stats don’t hurt a player’s stock, but rather if he has potential, his stock will be based on that.

Allen, a junior from Firebaugh, Calif., passed for 1,812 yards, 16 touchdowns and six interceptions, cutting down his number of picks by nine from the 2016 campaign. That was the major positive from this season’s showing, but his yardage was down by 1,400 yards and 12 touchdowns.

However, he played well enough against Central Michigan to prove himself worthy of a top-round pick. He completed 11-of-19 passes for 154 yards and three touchdowns and that was after missing the last two games of the regular season.

Next: 2018 NFL Mock Draft: Complete first round pre-bowl season

Don’t be surprised if you hear Allen’s name called in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft because the potential to be great is definitely there.