Six College Football Playoff Players the Lions Should Watch on Saturday
With the Detroit Lions’ season nearing its end, New Year’s Day offers fans a rare chance to enjoy high-stakes football without stress.
The College Football Playoff quarterfinals double as a scouting showcase, featuring draft-eligible talent who could soon be on Brad Holmes’ radar.
Six teams take the field Thursday, and each roster includes at least one player worth Lions fans’ attention.
Oregon vs. Texas Tech — Noon EST
LB Jacob Rodriguez, Texas Tech
Rodriguez has been the heartbeat of the Red Raiders’ defense and one of the most disruptive linebackers in college football this season. His production borders on absurd: double-digit tackles for loss, multiple interceptions, and an eye-popping number of forced fumbles.
Despite winning major defensive awards, scouts remain divided on how his athletic profile translates to the NFL, pushing him into late Day 2 or early Day 3 projections. Rodriguez wins with instincts, effort, and toughness rather than elite measurables — traits that would resonate in Detroit.
With Alex Anzalone nearing the end of his contract, Rodriguez could be viewed as a potential successor if the Lions prioritize playmaking and grit at linebacker.
OT Isaiah World, Oregon
World has quietly put together a strong season protecting Oregon’s quarterback, surrendering just one sack across hundreds of pass-blocking snaps. The former Nevada transfer has the physical traits teams look for — length, power, and burst off the line.
Where he struggles is recovery speed when initially beaten, something NFL coaching would need to refine. Still, his upside is intriguing, especially for a team preparing for life after Taylor Decker.
Detroit has had success mining Oregon’s offensive line before, and World could be another Duck the Lions consider on Day 2 or 3 of the 2026 draft.
Indiana vs. Alabama — 4 p.m. EST
QB Fernando Mendoza, Indiana
Even with Jared Goff firmly entrenched as the Lions’ starter, Mendoza is too talented to ignore. Indiana’s signal-caller capped off a brilliant season with a Heisman Trophy, showcasing accuracy, poise, and sneaky athleticism.
After previously throwing for over 3,000 yards at Cal, Mendoza matched that output again this season and set a new career high in touchdown passes. His game has drawn comparisons to a more mobile version of Matt Ryan.
While Detroit is unlikely to land him without a major move, evaluating elite quarterback talent is always worthwhile — especially after seeing how fragile the position can be when things go wrong.
WR Germie Bernard, Alabama
Bernard’s journey from Michigan State to Alabama has paid off.
Over two seasons with the Crimson Tide, he’s emerged as a reliable, physical receiver with excellent hands and crisp route-running.
Though he doesn’t possess elite speed, Bernard wins with toughness and separation, making him a Jarvis Landry–type prospect.
With Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams locked in long-term, Bernard could compete immediately for WR3 snaps if Detroit invests a Day 2 pick.
Depth at receiver may not be a priority, but injuries have proven how quickly that can change.
Georgia vs. Ole Miss — 8 p.m. EST
CB Daylen Everette, Georgia
Georgia may not boast the same star power as in past seasons, but Everette brings experience and versatility to the table.
A multi-year contributor, he’s played in over 50 games and taken a step forward in coverage production this year.
Everette thrives in man coverage, aligns well with Detroit’s defensive preferences, and has the athleticism to test extremely well at the NFL Combine.
His size and closing speed are appealing, but inconsistency remains his biggest concern.
Projected as a Day 2 pick, Everette could factor into a crowded Lions cornerback room that may still be seeking stability next season.
QB Trinidad Chambliss, Ole Miss
Chambliss rounds out a quarterback-heavy watch list. The former Ferris State standout has flashed dual-threat ability in his lone season at the FBS level, piling up significant passing and rushing production in the SEC.
He’s undersized and still learning how to diagnose complex defenses, but the raw tools are intriguing.
As a developmental option on Day 2 or Day 3, Chambliss could provide Detroit with a mobile contrast to Goff.
His athleticism also opens the door for creative offensive packages, giving the coaching staff flexibility if they want to experiment behind their starter.
