2013 NFL draft Big Board

For an LSU tandem, conference play offers a chance for confirmation

Originally Published: September 26, 2012
By Mel Kiper Jr. | ESPN Insider

LSU has a total of 8.0 sacks through four games this season. So how is it that two great pass-rushers from that team could sit so high on the Big Board? Well, we're about to find out. The Tigers get a walkover game this week with Towson coming in, but from there they go on a five-week stretch where they'll play Florida, South Carolina, Texas A&M, Alabama and Mississippi State. Of those five, only the Aggies currently sit unranked, and they well could be by the time LSU gets to Kyle Field. The Board will always be based a lot in projection, but producing time is at hand for the LSU tandem.

Below, the scouting perspective will remain similar week to week, but I'll note performance and matchup highlights. If there's a player you don't see here but want feedback on, I find some time to respond on Twitter. Hit me @MelKiperESPN. As always, juniors and draft-eligible sophomores are noted with an asterisk.

1
Jarvis Jones *
AGE: 22
DOB: 10/13/89
HT: 6-3
WT: 241
POS: OLB
Tkl 25
Sack 5.0
Int 1

Looked very good Saturday after a week off to rest his groin. An explosive, relentless edge rusher, he profiles as a 3-4 OLB. He has a quick first step and violent hands, tackles well and closes fast. Solid against the run, and can really cover.

LAST WEEK: 1 | PLAYER CARD

2
Matt Barkley
AGE: 22
DOB: 9/8/90
HT: 6-2
WT: 224
POS: QB
Comp 66
Att 109
Pct 60.5
Yds 813
TD 10
Int 3

USC bounced back, and the run game was the big reason. Barkley has limitations with physical skills, but he's very good across the board: ball placement, timing, use of his eyes, poise, leadership skills and has experience. Great leader.

LAST WEEK: 2 | PLAYER CARD

3
Barkevious Mingo *
AGE: 21
DOB: 10/4/90
HT: 6-5
WT: 242
POS: DE
Tkl 9
Sack 0
Int 0

No sacks yet, and SEC play will demand more production. Still projection left given how late he came to football, but talent is clear. Uses length and a great first step to turn the corner. His pass-rush skills are pretty good but could be diversified. Still learning concepts, but reads the game well given his lack of experience.

LAST WEEK: 3 | PLAYER CARD

4
Sam Montgomery *
AGE: 21
DOB: 5/25/90
HT: 6-4
WT: 260
POS: DE
Tkl 11
Sack 2.0
Int 0

Played better against Auburn. Added size and could be considered a fit in almost any system; his frame can handle it if he adds more. Athleticism and pass-rush skills are there, and he really holds up against the run. Max-effort player, natural athlete, instinctive rusher.

LAST WEEK: 4 | PLAYER CARD

5
Star Lotulelei
AGE: 22
DOB: 12/20/89
HT: 6-4
WT: 325
POS: DT
Tkl 18
Sack 1.0
Int 0

Makes a lot of plays given attention he sees. Brings consistent, relentless effort. Demands double-teams, and clogs up the middle of the field. A great sense for disrupting the run game, with power to bull rush. Quick off the ball, with great upper-body strength. Coaches rave.

LAST WEEK: 5 | PLAYER CARD


To see the rest of Mel Kiper's Big Board, you must be an ESPN Insider.

Mel Kiper Jr.

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

SPONSORED HEADLINES

MORE NFL HEADLINES

MOST SENT STORIES ON ESPN.COM