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2014-01-21 13:09:32
-by Daniel Mogollon, Staff Writer; Image: Jared Abbrederis makes leaping grab against Ohio State. (Image Source: Jay LaPrete/AP Photo)
Here’s a look at a pair of Big Ten WRs participating in this week’s Senior Bowl:
Jared Abbrederis, Wisconsin (6’2”/190 pounds)
Stats: 78 receptions, 1,081 yards, 7 TDs; Projection: Third Round
The Wisconsin pass catcher improved his draft stock with a strong 2013 campaign. At times it appeared that Jared Abbrederis was the team’s first, second and third option when the Badgers went to the air. His 1,081 receiving yards accounted for more than 42 percent of the team’s passing yards. He’s not a burner, but has more than enough speed to play at the next level. The same goes for his length at 6’2”, although the 190-pounder is a little light in the pants and would benefit from bulking up. Durability is a concern. He missed a game last season with a head injury and had to leave parts of two games this season.
As long as he can get off at the line of scrimmage, Abbrederis has the route-running skills to get open. As a catcher of the football, Abbrederis has his ups and downs. He can make the spectacular grab when forced to use his hands, but at times he will allow the ball to get into his body on what should be an easy catch. His big-play potential is underrated. Abbrederis can stretch the field and has flashed the ability to make plays when Wisconsin gets him involved in the running game.
Leaders Division Reviews: Ohio State | Wisconsin | Penn State | Indiana | Illinois | Purdue
Kain Colter, Northwestern (6’0”/190 pounds)
Stats: 577 passing yards (4 TDs), 489 rushing yards (5 TDs); Projection: Day 3
Northwestern’s starting quarterback Kain Colter was known more for his running than passing during his college career. Lacking the size and arm he would need to play under center at the next level, Colter is looking at a fulltime position change. He has flashed the ability to run the football, which is why running back may be an option, but most project him as a wide receiver prospect.
At times, when co-starter Trevor Siemian entered the game as the quarterback, Colter would remain on the field and shift to wide out, so he isn’t completely green as a pass catcher. His skill set could make him an effective slot receiver. Colter has solid hands and very good quickness. While he doesn’t have great long speed, the Wildcat is a good open field runner, with the moves, feet and change of direction ability to make plays after the catch. Colter is also a tough kid, who won’t shy away from contact or running routes across the middle of the field.
He’s a competitor and very smart. Once he can focus on improving his craft as a receiver, expect Colter to develop into a crisp route runner. His time at quarterback should only help him down the road as a pass catcher. Colter is a leader and a team guy, and coaches will love his intangibles.
Big Ten Links:
Big Ten Football Final Power Rankings: Michigan State Represents in the Rose Bowl
One-On-One With Penn State Offensive Guard John Urschel
One-On-One: MSU LB Max Bullough Talks About Winning the Big Ten Championship
One-On-One: Michigan State’s Max Bullough Talks Playoffs & Defines Spartan Dawg
Q&A: Iowa’s James Morris Talks About the Perception of the Big Ten & Upcoming Playoffs
Q&A: James Morris Talks About Corralling the Program & New Year’s Day Bowl
Q&A: College Football Hall of Famer Orlando Pace, Ohio State Buckeyes
Q&A: College Football Hall of Famer Percy Snow, Michigan State Spartans
Daniel Mogollon is a member of the Pro Football Writers of America and the Football Writers Association of America. He is also a voter for the Thorpe and the Rotary Lombardi Award, as well as the Latino Sports MVP Awards.
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