Ahmad Hardy, who was one of college football’s best players last year, is making his long-awaited return to the field this week after suffering a gunshot wound in the spring. His comeback against Arkansas is going to be limited, but everyone who follows the NFL Draft needs to tune in, because a healthy Ahmad Hardy changes everything for his pro potential.
The Game-Changing Back is Back
Seriously, think about it. Hardy absolutely tore it up last year. As a freshman at ULM, he was a star, then he transferred to Missouri and immediately became a game-changing running back. We’re talking over 1,600 yards rushing and 16 touchdowns on the ground. That kind of production is insane. Then, boom, a gunshot wound in the spring puts everything on hold. Now he’s back for Missouri against Arkansas, expected to get limited touches. What does he look like? Can he still burst? Will he show that same vision? College football is better when Ahmad Hardy is healthy, and the NFL scouts are definitely going to be watching how he performs after such a significant setback. This isn’t just a feel-good story; it’s a critical test for his future draft stock.
Defensive Monsters Heating Up Draft Boards
While Hardy’s return is huge, there are some serious defensive studs lighting up the field, too.
First up, **Leonard Moore**, the cornerback from Notre Dame, goes up against Navy at noon ET on ABC. Folks are calling him the best cornerback in the country, and for good reason. Navy’s offense isn’t exactly airing it out, so his coverage skills won’t get a huge test. But this is where you watch the nuance: can he fight through perimeter blocking? Will he shut down the run game on the edge? That versatility is crucial, and it’ll help keep Notre Dame on top.
Then there’s **AJ Holmes Junior**, the disruptive defensive lineman from Texas Tech, taking on Arizona at noon ET on ESPN. This is a Big 12 showdown with two ranked teams and NFL prospects all over the field. Holmes is the new star for the Red Raiders, stepping up big after Texas Tech sent a ton of guys to the NFL last year. He’s an every down defender, and he’ll need to be absolute lights out to contain an explosive Arizona offense.
Finally, you can’t miss **Chris Cole**, the linebacker from Georgia. His showdown with Florida at 3:30 PM ET on ESPN is arguably the game of the day, loaded with star power. Georgia’s defense is stacked, but Cole is the one I’m eyeing. Florida’s got a star running back in Jadan Baugh, and they’re gonna try to run the ball down Georgia’s throat. Cole is the next great Georgia linebacker, and this game is his chance to put on a clinic and show why.
The Sleeper Receiver and the Big Question Marks
Don’t sleep on **Griffin Wilde**, the 6’2″ senior wide receiver from Northwestern, when they face Oregon at 3:30 PM ET on Peacock. Now, hear me out: this dude accounts for 38% of Northwestern’s receiving yards this season. To put that in perspective, “all-world freshman” Jesse Legree only has 39% of *his* team’s passing yards. Wilde is a big, reliable, athletic target who consistently gets the ball. Oregon might be “down on their luck,” but they’re still a tough matchup for Chip Kelly’s offense. Wilde is gonna see a ton of targets, and he needs to make them count to impress scouts looking for that consistent, big-bodied pass catcher.
Week 9 is absolutely packed with must-watch college football that will directly impact who ends up on NFL Draft boards. Keep your eyes glued to these guys. You want to see how Hardy looks after his comeback, if Moore can flash that versatility, how Holmes and Cole dominate the trenches, and if Wilde can continue to be a go-to guy against a tough defense. The season is flying by, and every snap from these prospects matters for their pro dreams.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Bleeding Green Nation.
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