The College Football Playoff (CFP) features an exciting matchup on Saturday afternoon, as the No. 6 seed Tulane faces off against the No. 11 seed Ole Miss. With a multi-score spread favoring Ole Miss, this game is poised to showcase some of the top draft-eligible prospects in college football.
Tulane and Ole Miss are set to meet in a crucial playoff game that could have significant implications for several players’ futures. This article highlights eight standout athletes to keep an eye on during this thrilling encounter.
Key Draft Prospects
Among the most notable players is Zxavian Harris, a formidable interior defensive lineman from Ole Miss. Known for his ability to stop the run and disrupt the pocket, Harris has drawn attention from NFL scouts. This season, he registered a career-high three sacks, demonstrating his improved pass-rushing potential, which will be vital as Tulane struggles to protect its quarterback.
Another player to watch is Suntarine Perkins, who recorded 10.5 sacks last season. Though undersized for an EDGE position at the professional level, Perkins has proven to be a dynamic playmaker. He has committed to return to Ole Miss in 2026, but his performance this Saturday will still be closely monitored by scouts.
On the Tulane side, Shadre Hurst stands out as the team’s top draft-eligible prospect. The left guard has had an impressive season, not allowing a single sack in 2025. Hurst has also showcased his versatility by briefly playing left tackle, earning him top-150 grades from NFL scouts.
The Rebels’ tight end, Dae’Quan Wright, has enjoyed a career-best season, tallying 30 receptions for 489 yards and four touchdowns. Wright’s ability to find the end zone has made him a key player, with eight touchdowns over the past two seasons and an impressive average of 16.3 yards per catch.
Tulane’s quarterback, Jake Retzlaff, has made a significant impact since transferring from BYU. Leading the Green Wave to their first-ever CFP appearance, Retzlaff has thrown for 14 touchdowns while rushing for another 16. Scouts view him as a developmental prospect, and his performance in this game could catch the attention of NFL teams.
Additional Players to Monitor
Trinidad Chambliss, the Ole Miss quarterback, has been efficient throughout the season, recording 18 touchdowns against just three interceptions, along with six rushing scores. While he has showcased good arm strength, his smaller stature compared to NFL standards and issues with post-snap recognition may affect his draft prospects.
Wide receiver Harrison Wallace III has emerged as Chambliss’ primary target, racking up 46 receptions for 719 yards and three touchdowns this season. His athleticism and ability to win contested catches have made him an intriguing prospect, attracting attention from scouts who have assigned him a day-three draft grade.
Lastly, Mo Westmoreland, previously productive at UTEP, has had a quieter season at Tulane with 2.5 sacks. Though he may be seen as a priority undrafted free agent, he remains a familiar name in scouting circles.
With both teams eager to advance in the playoffs, this matchup not only holds implications for the teams involved but also for the futures of these talented players. As the game unfolds, fans can expect a showcase of skill and ambition, with potential NFL careers on the line.
