NFL Draft Week 13 random observations

If Wisconsin defensive lineman J.J. Watt is considering going pro, he should. On Saturday, he had the best of his career with two forced fumbles and a blocked extra point. The pressure he caused wreaked havoc on Northwestern all game. Even against multiple blockers he was getting penetration. Lazy draftniks will compare Watt to Adam Carriker, but don't let that fool you. Watt, a former Central Michigan tight end, plays with more tenacity and is more athletic.

Auburn quarterback Cam Newton showed he has what it takes to be an NFL quarterback. In Auburn's come-from-behind win against Alabama, Newton completed 13 of 20 passes with three touchdowns. His numbers weren't gaudy, but several of them were NFL-style throws. Newton has a really good touch on his passes and gets good placement.

Ryan Mallett had an up-and-down game Arkansas' thrilling win over LSU. Mallett has the arm strength and he's been a more mature player this season. But there are some flaws in his footwork. When he has time, Mallett can throw it anywhere. but against pressure, his passes wobble. This is the only thing keeping Mallett behind Jake Locker as the second-best quarterback prospect this season.

One player who starred for Arkansas was offensive tackle DeMarcus Love. He's a powerful tackle with some athleticism. His hand punch is scary. He reminds me of Vernon Carey of the Dolphins.

Before Saturday, Maryland's Torrey Smith maybe the best wide receiver no one talks about. After catching 14 passes for 224 yards and four touchdowns, plenty know about him now. Smith's best asset is his speed. For a powerfully built player, Smith's speed is dangerous. His hands have been inconsistent, but he now has four games this season of 149 yards or more receiving. Don't be surprised if the junior enters the draft.

One junior to keep an eye on entering the draft is Louisiana-Lafayette junior tight end Ladarius Green. He's big at 6-foot-6 and 230 pounds with solid quickness and speed. In 10 games this season, he has 38 receptions for 674 yards and six touchdowns. He's had more than 100 yards receiving in the last three games. He could enter after head coach Rickey Bustle was fired.

If Stanford's Andrew Luck enters the draft, he went out in his last home game in spectacular fashion. The redshirt sophomore completed 21 of 30 passes for 305 yards and four touchdowns. Carolina's Jimmy Clausen had a good game against Cleveland but will need to win some games to get the Panthers out of the No. 1 pick.

Food for thought: If Auburn's Nick Fairley enters the draft, how will the perception that he's a dirty player affect his draft stock?