The College Football Playoffs and much-anticipated bowl games have begun, but these are more than just another game; these are a proving ground for NFL Draft hopefuls. Bowl games are a stage for greatness, and performances in these high-stakes matchups will undoubtedly shape how scouts, teams and fantasy football managers view these 2025 dynasty rookies.
This week, we’re putting four exciting rookie prospects “In the Scope” and discussing their upcoming marquee matchups.
Cameron Skattebo (RB, Arizona State) vs. #3 Texas (Peach Bowl)
Cameron Skattebo has been nothing short of electric for Arizona State this season, solidifying himself as one of the most intriguing running back prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft class. After transferring from Sacramento State, Skattebo transformed both his physique and game, dropping weight and producing over 1,500 rushing yards and 19 touchdowns on the ground. He added 37 receptions for over 500 yards and three scores through the air, showcasing his dual-threat ability. This season, he not only led ASU to an unexpected Big 12 title but also to a spot in the College Football Playoffs, earning a fifth-place finish in Heisman Trophy voting along the way.
While his regular-season performance was outstanding, the Peach Bowl presents a much sterner test. Texas boasts the nation’s third-ranked total defense and is 10th against the run, posing a challenge Skattebo hasn’t faced often. His only other game against an SEC team came against a weak Mississippi State team, where he posted an eye-popping 297 total yards. However, the Longhorns are far from the Bulldogs in terms of talent and scheme. If Skattebo can shine against a defense of this caliber, it could solidify his place as a potential top-10 running back in an incredibly deep draft class and move him up 2025 dynasty rookie rankings.
Emeka Egbuka (WR, Ohio State) vs. #1 Oregon (Rose Bowl)
Emeka Egbuka enters the Rose Bowl with a chance to further cement himself as one of the most complete wide receivers in the 2025 NFL Draft. He’s a versatile player, capable of playing both outside and in the slot while also excelling in intermediate and deep parts of the field. Egbuka has taken screens to the house, caught deep touchdowns and been a reliable target across the board for Ohio State this season. Few scouts may already have him as the WR1 in this class due to his consistent collegiate production, but for most, he’s battling to unseat Tetairoa McMillan from Arizona.
The matchup against Oregon is critical. The Ducks’ defense has been consistent and disciplined all season, and they’ll test Egbuka’s ability to create separation and win contested catches. Ohio State is considered a slight favorite, and a strong showing from Egbuka could elevate his stock in both the NFL Draft and 2025 dynasty rookie drafts. For fantasy football enthusiasts, the College Football Playoffs are a preview of what Egbuka might bring to an NFL offense.
Mitchell Evans (TE, Notre Dame) vs. #2 Georgia (Sugar Bowl)
Mitchell Evans has flown under the radar compared to the other tight ends in his class, but the Sugar Bowl offers a golden opportunity to make a statement. Notre Dame’s offense doesn’t heavily feature the passing game, which has limited Evans’ production this season, but his skill set suggests a bright future at the next level. He has been steadily improving throughout the year, showing flashes of his potential as both a receiver and blocker.
Evans faces a Georgia team that’s missing quarterback Carson Beck, meaning this game could rest more heavily on big plays and key conversions. Notre Dame may lean on Evans to deliver in clutch situations, giving him the opportunity to prove he can handle a high-volume role. With a deep tight end class that includes names like Tyler Warren and Colston Loveland, Evans needs to stand out. His performance in the College Football Playoffs could elevate him into conversations about the top-tier prospects in the class.
Dillon Gabriel (QB, Oregon) vs. #6 Ohio State (Rose Bowl)
Dillon Gabriel’s journey through College Football has been a winding road, with stops at UFC, Oklahoma and now Oregon. He’s had a stellar statistical season, but questions remain about his NFL potential. Oregon has a reputation for producing quarterbacks who struggle to transition to the next level, and Gabriel faces those same concerns. That said, the Rose Bowl provides an opportunity to change the narrative.
Ohio State’s defense is physical, disciplined and battle-tested. They won’t allow Gabriel to pad his stats with easy throws or soft coverage, meaning he’ll have to prove he can make NFL-caliber reads and throws under pressure. With the Buckeyes favored by 2.5 points, Gabriel will need to lead his team in what promises to be a gritty, hard-fought contest. The outcome of this game and Gabriel’s performance could have significant implications not only for Oregon’s national title hopes but also for his draft stock in a quarterback class full of uncertainty beyond the top two names, Shedeur Sanders and Cameron Ward.
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