Posted by Kevin Weidl
Scouts Inc. is heading to Columbus this week for the USC-Ohio State matchup, which will feature as many pro prospects as any other game this season. Here are some of the matchups and players we'll have our eye on in one of college football's biggest early-season games:
USC OT Charles Brown vs. OSU DE Lawrence Wilson
This is a great matchup of experienced seniors with opposing styles. Brown is a former tight end blessed with natural athleticism and speed while Wilson is a stout end with a nice blend of size and power. Brown gets into his pass pro sets quickly and should prevent Wilson from turning the corner, but expect Wilson to test him otherwise.
Wilson is at his best starting outside then knifing back inside with a power move, which could lead to problems because on film we've seen Brown lunging at times against double moves. We also want to see whether Brown has developed his lower-body strength. He must prove he can sustain and prevent himself from being knocked back into the pocket by Wilson, who is very strong in the upper body and can jar offensive tackles at the snap.
Brown is quick off the ball as a run blocker and should get in solid position against Wilson, but his core strength is a question and scouts want to if he has improved his ability to get push and sustain blocks. On film he is too often seen falling to the ground after defenders disengage and Wilson will provide an excellent test with his upper-body strength, ability to play with leverage and ability to stack and shed blockers at the line of scrimmage.
Brown gets a third-round grade at this point and Wilson is in the sixth-round area, and his matchup could provide a solid basis for either player boosting his stock.
For a look at a trio of safety prospects in this game, as well as a pair of cornerbacks with something to prove and several underclassmen who could test the NFL waters, become an ESPN Insider. 
To continue reading this article you must be an Insider
