Tennessee vs. Oklahoma: 3 draft prospects to watch
The Chicago Bears (1-1) are set to face the Indianapolis Colts(0-2) on Sunday, where Chicago is looking to bounce back after last week's loss.
But before that gets going, there is a ton of college football to be played on Saturday. You know that general manager Ryan Poles and his scouting staff will be all over that as it is never too early to start your draft prep.
One of the most exciting games of the weekend at any level is the prime-time matchup between Tennessee and Oklahoma. It's a matchup of two top-15 teams -- the No. 6 Volunteers against the No. 15 Sooners.
There are going to be players in this game that become NFL players. Coming into the big Saturday night matchup, these are the three players to keep an eye on:
1. James Pearce Jr., EDGE, Tennessee
The Bears, regardless of how this year goes, are likely going to be looking to add pass rushers next offseason. With Montez Sweat already leading the way, it would be nice to add someone to help him on a high level. James Pearce Jr. is a candidate to be drafted by a team looking for that type of player. He may be drafted pretty high, so it would depend on where they land, but anything is possible.
So far in his college career, Pearce has 12.0 sacks, one interception (for a touchdown), and two forced fumbles in 29 games played. He likely becomes a game-breaker in the NFL. For now, it will be interesting to see how he handles Oklahoma's offensive line and if he’s able to get the quarterback moving.
2. Danny Stutsman, LB, Oklahoma
Chicago has made some big free-agent splashes at the linebacker position over the last handful of years. It's a position that will always mean a lot to the organization because of the legends that have played it in this city. Danny Stutsman could be a draft pick of the Bears, if they’d like to add some depth and a player to develop at that position. Stutsman would be ready to take over as a core piece in the coming years, which would help the Bears stay competitive for a long time on defense.
Stutsman has been a versatile player in college over his four years playing. He is good for a few interceptions, sacks, and forced fumbles. His ability to help shut down the run and pass may also play in the NFL. Many people think of offense when talking about Oklahoma, but their defense is exceptional so far this season. The great play from Stutsman is a big reason for that.
3. Billy Bowman Jr., S, Oklahoma
The Bears, or any team in the NFL for that matter, is always looking to upgrade the defensive backfield. That is one of the biggest keys to winning this league. Billy Bowman Jr. is the perfect candidate for a safety job in Chicago's defensive backfield. So far, his work at Oklahoma is also paving a big chance to be an NFL player.
It won’t be easy to make that jump but he has the tools to do it. His shutdown ability as a safety at Oklahoma has stats to back it up. In 38 games, Bowman has 156 tackles, two forced fumbles, two fumbles brought back for a touchdown, 12 deflections, 10 interceptions, and 3 touchdowns from interceptions. It is a bad idea to throw to his side of the field.
This game promises to be loaded with points, so seeing how these three defensive players react will be a must-see TV. They’d also all make great Bears in their own right, but they have to keep playing well this season to earn NFL opportunities.
This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: Tennessee vs. Oklahoma: 3 draft prospects to watch