Kiper: Stock Watch

On the Cornhuskers' final drive, Miller closed the door on any thoughts of tying or winning the game by recording two sacks, making a tackle in coverage and getting in on a run stop. It showed just how much of a difference-maker he's capable of being when it all comes together. After showing some signs as a sophomore that he could generate heat on the quarterback, Miller enjoyed a breakout 2009 season. Operating at the Joker position, he finished tops in the country with 17 sacks. And in so doing, he established himself as a potentially outstanding 3-4 outside 'backer at the next level. Off to a slow start at the beginning of this season due to an ankle injury, he has rounded into top form of late. The two things on defense that the NFL cannot get enough of are: front-seven players who can consistently pressure the quarterback; and cornerbacks who excel in coverage. Prolific at the former, Miller will not have to wait past the middle of the first round to hear his name called on draft day.

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Mel Kiper Jr.

Football analyst

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• ESPN NFL Draft analyst since 1984
• Contributes to SportsCenter and ESPN Radio
• Writes weekly for ESPN Insider