One vs. One: Comparing top WRs, TEs from 2017, 2018 classes
Mark Pszonak contributed to this report.
With Signing Day in the rearview mirror and our national rankings shut down, we thought it would be fun to compare the top players at their position in 2017 to the top players at their position in 2018. We call it One versus One and today we look at the wide receivers and tight ends.
MORE ONE VS.. ONE: Quarterbacks | Running backs
WIDE RECEIVERS: DONOVAN PEOPLES-JONES VS. AMON-RA ST. BROWN
The skinny: Peoples-Jones long favored Michigan, so when he committed to the Wolverines over Florida, Ohio State and Michigan State, it came as no surprise. Peoples-Jones had a solid first season in Ann Arbor, finishing 2017 with 40 receptions for 320 yards and one touchdown.
St. Brown trimmed his list down to USC, Stanford and Notre Dame before committing to the Trojans in early January.
Farrell’s take: Peoples-Jones was a rare combination of size, speed and elusiveness and was an impressive wide receiver specimen, but the physical advantages he has over St. Brown are overshadowed by the latter’s ability to gain separation so easily. St. Brown is one of the best wide receivers I’ve seen in the last decade and his combination of speed, hands and willingness to fight for the ball will make him a star at the next level.
Farrell’s verdict: St. Brown
TIGHT ENDS: BROCK WRIGHT VS. LUKE FORD
The skinny: Wright committed to Notre Dame during the summer after his sophomore season and never wavered. He redshirted during his first season with the Fighting Irish, but should be in line for some quality playing time in 2018.
Ford took his time with his process, but eventually committed to Georgia over Alabama, Oklahoma, Auburn, Texas A&M and Illinois in late December.
Farrell’s take: This is a tough one because I was a big fan of Wright coming out and I like what Ford brings to the table. Wright has the speed to stretch the field and a powerful build to break tackles after the catch while Ford is clearly longer and more athletic overall. In a tight battle, I’ll take Ford.
Farrell’s verdict: Ford
