A look at NFL draft prospects off to hot start

Brian Brohm threw for 375 yards and four touchdowns in Louisville's win over Murray State. AP

Appalachian State's upset victory over Michigan notwithstanding, most of last weekend's games looked like scrimmages between varsity and JV squads rather than competitive NCAA teams. Yet, there were a number of outstanding performances by NFL prospects that must be mentioned.

Brian Brohm/QB/Louisville: Brohm ran a clinic against Murray State, orchestrating the Louisville offense with precision. His decision making and command on the field were outstanding in a fine start for the nation's top quarterback prospect.

Matt Ryan/QB/Boston College: Ryan tossed a career-high five touchdown passes and had 408 yards passing in BC's hard-fought victory over conference foe Wake Forest. His game management late in the fourth quarter helped seal the victory.

Erik Ainge/QB/Tennessee: Though his team lost to California in a wild shootout, Ainge had a terrific game, showing poise and leadership even though he was suffering with a broken pinkie finger on his throwing hand. Ainge was forced to break in a brand new group of receivers, but that didn't present a problem.

Tashard Choice/RB/Georgia Tech: Choice made a statement by running roughshod over Notre Dame in South Bend. The focal point of Georgia Tech's offense rushed for 196 yards and averaged 7.5 yards per carry, leading the Yellow Jackets route over the Irish.

DeSean Jackson/WR-RS/California: Tennessee kept a close eye on Jackson all night, but it didn't help much. His electrifying 77-yard punt return for a touchdown demoralized the Volunteers. Jackson also came away with several important receptions even though the Tennessee double covered him.

Early Doucet/WR/LSU: With the departure of Dwayne Bowe and Craig Davis, both first-round selections last April, Doucet now becomes the Tigers' primary offensive weapon. He's off to a hot start, amassing 78 of the 128 receiving yards tossed by Matt Flynn in the team's win over SEC rival Mississippi State. Doucet displayed reliable hands and a consistent game throughout.

Jake Long/OT/Michigan: Though the Wolverines would prefer to forget last weekend's upset, there were some solid performances. Long dominated the opposition, protecting quarterback Chad Henne the entire game. Long also looked devastating as a run blocker.

Gosider Cherilus/OT/Boston College: Barely a week after being accused of assault in connection with a bar fight, Cherilus took his aggression to the football field with outstanding results. Cherilus looked great in his first game at left tackle after playing on the right side last year. If Cherilus continues to prove his worth on the blind side, his draft stock will climb at least a dozen slots.

Antoine Caldwell/C/Alabama: Only a junior, Caldwell is already considered a top prospect and could make a run to be the first center drafted if he bolts for the NFL after this season. Against Western Carolina, Caldwell was dominant, opening holes in the middle of the field all game. Caldwell easily gets downfield into the secondary and removes defensive backs from the action.

Quentin Groves/DE/Auburn: Groves proved why he is one of the top pure pass rushers that will be available in next April's draft. A disruptive force all night against Kansas State, he was instrumental in Auburn's come-from-behind victory. Late in the fourth quarter, Groves came up with a pair of critical sacks and forced a fumble which was returned by teammate Antonio Coleman for a touchdown to seal the win.

Dejaun Tribble/CB/Boston College: Tribble was a major factor in Saturday's victory over Wake Forest. He intercepted three passes, including a pair of picks in the end zone which prevented scores. Tribble also notched seven solo-tackles. A bit undersized by NFL standards, Tribble's instincts and football awareness will help get him first-day consideration at the draft.

Mike Mickens/CB/Cincinnati: Mickens recorded two interceptions and six tackles in the Bearcats' 59-3 win over Southeast Missouri State. His first interception in the end zone prevented a touchdown, and he returned his second pick 45 yards for a score. Mickens is one of the better junior cornerbacks that most people don't know.