2016 NFL Draft prospect watch: Michigan vs Michigan State

Oct 17, 2015; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans quarterback Connor Cook (18) looks to make a pass in the fourth quarter against the Michigan Wolverines at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

This game was crazy!

The Michigan Wolverines had just thwarted off a late rally by quarterback Conner Cook and his Michigan State Spartans. All they had to do was punt the ball with 10 seconds left and the victory would be Michigan’s But the snap was fumbled and Michigan State’s Jalen Watts-Jackson picked it up and raced 38 yards for the game-winning touchdown.

Cook, a top 2016 NFL Draft prospect, didn’t look too good early on but came on in the second half with big plays. He connected with receiver Macgarrett Kings Jr. for a 30-yard TD and a 74-yard pass-play to fullback Trevon Pendleton to set up another score. On the day, Cook was 18-39 for 328 yards and a TD against the nation’s top-rated defense.

This performance, especially in the second half in such a big game gave NFL scouts something to think about. His ability to throw the ball down the field and bring his team back after not starting out well were on display. Along with Cook, NFL scouts had a chance to look at left tackle Jack Conklin and edge-rusher Shilique Calhoun.

Conklin was solid as it wasn’t his fault is team couldn’t run on the nation’s best defense. But he was solid in pass-protection along with his offensive line mates, keeping Cook upright for the most part. Calhoun also looked like a 1st-round pick on Saturday with his performance likely taking higher in the first round.

He put relentless pressure on Michigan quarterback Jake Rudock all day long, helping his team make a couple of key stops. Along with all the pressure Calhoun put on the day, Calhoun had a couple tackles for losses and sacks. Michigan had no one projected into the first round at this time in the game.