Connor Cook impresses against the Indiana Hoosiers

Oct 24, 2015; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans quarterback Connor Cook (18) throws off his back foot against the Indiana Hoosiers during the 1st half of a game at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports

The quarterbacks expected to enter the 2016 NFL Draft didn’t look too impressive to start the season. But the top prospects are now in mid-season form, blades sharp, looking very impressive. And this week, you can put Michigan State Spartans quarterback Connor Cook at the top of that list.

Last week, he had a chance to seize a signature moment at the end of the game against Michigan but came up short. However, his No. 7-ranked Spartans still won the game on a fumbled punt snap returned for a touchdown. Saturday, against the Indiana Hoosiers, he would put the team on his back and bring them home for a 52-26 win.

He showed great accuracy, touch, timing, anticipation, a strong arm and his lightning quick release. He also show a great deal of poise and pocket presence to slide in the pocket while still looking for receivers. On the day, Cook was 30-52 for 398 yards, three touchdowns and he wasn’t intercepted.

On the season, Cook has completed 57 percent of his passes for 2,060 yards, 16 TDs and only two INTs. There are still a lot of opportunities for him as he will see the No. 1-ranked Ohio State Buckeyes on November 21. A national championship to go with how he’s playing now will look very good on his resume.

None of the top-3 quarterback prospects have really done anything to distinguish themselves from each other. But Connors performance on Saturday keeps his name in the hat for the 3-quarterback race for 1st-round spots. Keep watching this kid because he’s going to remain in the mix somewhere.

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