Ohio State at Oregon
Beyond the quarterbacks, a name often bandied about as perhaps the best at his position and a virtual lock for a Top Five draft pick is Oregon offensive tackle Penei Sewell. In their preseason Big Board, the analysts at The Draft Network rate Sewell the second-overall prospect for the 2021 NFL Draft, behind only quarterback Trevor Lawrence. Here’s what they have to say about the Oregon OT:
Exceptionally young and will only get better as he grows and matures more into his body and frame. In the run game, Sewell is tenacious and comes off the ball hard as a drive blocker — showing great success in creating lanes for his back. Showcases as an excellent run lane anchor and is heavy at the point of attack to create immediate movement. In the passing game, he is competitive and showcases good length for the perimeter — will check the box comfortably for teams with his wingspan. He has a strong upper body and excellent latch strength in his hands. He is tough, strong and competitive and it is reasonable to consider that he has only scratched the surface of his potential.
This was going to be a chance for Sewell to matchup with yet another talented Ohio State pass rusher. Coming in the wake of Joey and Nick Bosa, and then Chase Young, is Tyreke Smith. Obviously Smith was more of a second fiddle last season to Young, but he has the traits you want in a pass rusher. This could have been a coming out party for Smith. Instead we will have to wait to see both of these players tested.