5. WR Nico Collins – MICHIGAN
Last week Collins was on my list of players to watch, and he blew up for six catches for 165 yards and three touchdowns. While a repeat of that performance would be great against the Buckeyes, it’s unlikely against their number one defense and tough secondary. Collins can still make an impact on the game as last year he was the best receiver for the Wolverines, getting four catches for 91 yards and two touchdowns.
This year, Collins shouldn’t be the only receiver getting touchdowns as others have stepped up and with freshmen showing their worth, it could mean less attention towards Collins. With less attention, comes easier passes to him and more chances for big plays. Collins is having his best year yet at Michigan, getting 31 catches for 649 yards and seven touchdowns. Another thing that has helped him this year is drawing defensive pass interference penalties on opposing defenders.
Updated most defensive pass interference penalties drawn among all FBS WRs:
1. Nico Collins (Michigan) – 8 [45 targets]
t-2. Omar Bayless (Ark St.) – 7 [106]
t-2. Brad Rozner (Rice) – 7 [79]
t-2. Isaiah McKoy (Kent St.) – 7 [57]
t-2. Ahmad Wagner (UK) – 7 [30]STILL RIDICULOUS https://t.co/Ko3l4OhOD5
— Jarad Evans (@Jarad_Evans) November 20, 2019
Collins could have one more called against him when they played Penn State, but the officials didn’t see it like that. Either way, Collins has had that go his way and if he can get at least one of those calls this week, that could be a headache for the Buckeyes on how to cover him.
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