South Carolina’s defense, by far, has been the highlight of the team this season, led by Georgia Tech transfer Kyle Kennard and freshman EDGE rusher Dylan Stewart. In the past few games, however, a couple of guys have begun to shine, and one in particular shined the most against Oklahoma, raising the eyes of NFL Draft analysts.
Defensive back Nick Emmanwori had his best game as a Gamecock so far this season against Oklahoma when he recorded two interceptions, returned one for a touchdown, and had 11 total tackles, seven solo tackles, and one tackle for a loss. Emmanwori is still just a junior, but his name has been popping up on projected draft boards, and his performance against OU improved his draft stock.
Kennard has been projected to go in the first round in the past couple of CBS Sports mock drafts by Blake Brockermeyer. In the latest mock draft, Brockermeyer had Kennard being drafted with the No. 21 overall pick, possibly by the Denver Broncos. What was surprising to college football fans, but no surprise to South Carolina fans, Emmanwori found himself projected to go in the first round with the No. 24 overall pick possible to the Baltimore Ravens…