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NFL Draft Prospects – 2017 Bowl Game Preview: December 21st

The third straight day of only one bowl game features the Temple Owls and Florida International Panthers.

Bad Boy Mowers Gasparilla Bowl: Temple vs. Florida International – 8 p.m. ET, ESPN

The highest rated player in this matchup is Temple defensive back, Sean Chandler. Chandler is not limited to any specific position. He has the ability, quickness and versatility to play man to man or zone coverage as a corner. He can also play safety. Chandler has had some injury issues in his career, which could cause teams to be hesitant in committing to him. However, he is an extremely skilled defender who makes up for his lack of height (5-10) with speed and natural talent. He can also serve as a kick and/or punt returner. With a solid combine, I could seed Chandler being chosen in the 4th round.

In a league where fullbacks are diminishing, Nick Sharga of Temple still has the opportunity to be productive at the NFL level. Sharga is a house at 6-2, 240 lbs and possess incredible lead blocking abilities. Not only does he have size and strength, but the Owls FB has speed. He has the capability to get explode through the line and provide blocking past the defensive line into the second tier of defenders. Any team with a top-tier NFL running back could use the services of Sharga as he would provide a punishing goal-line presence. He is a fullback so look for him to go in the later rounds, but he is talented enough to make an impact.

Four years ago, Florida Int. cornerback, Brad Muhammad was kicked off the team for missing a practice. He was not welcome back onto the team until his senior year this season. He has made the most of it. Muhammad, 5-10, 180, has four interceptions to lead the Panthers. No one had him on their radar heading into the season and most people still don’t know, but this kid can play. Muhammad is quick, versatile and has plenty of room to grow. Unfortunately, he only played one year of college football and would need to have a record setting combine to be drafted.  He would not be selected earlier than the 7th round, if selected at all, but keep an eye out for him. Who doesn’t love a sleeper who works hard?

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