Canal Street Chronicles
Another college football slate is on the horizon for us fans. Committees are beginning to whittle down lists of potential award winners and are sorting out bowl matchup possibilities. We’re one week closer to some players taking the next step in their football careers, and these are the guys I will be watching closely this Saturday.
Carnell Tate
Ohio State’s wide receiver is a highly-touted player and is widely regarded as one of, if not the best, pass catchers in the country. With nearly 600 yards on the season, Tate is averaging more than 17 YPC. The 6’3” wideout has six touchdowns already this year and should look to add to that total today versus the Penn State Nittany Lions.
Fernando Mendoza
Indiana’s quarterback has rocketed up draft boards with his Heisman hopeful play for the Hoosiers this year. Mendoza totes an 8-1 touchdown-to-interception ratio with nearly 2,000 yards passing this season. Many are projecting the QB as number one overall in the upcoming draft, as the New Orleans Saints currently possess the first pick.
Deion Burks
Oklahoma’s Burks is another WR target I believe fans of the Saints should keep an eye on as well. Although smaller in stature, the senior wideout plays a lot bigger with his performance on the field. Burks averages nearly 11 yards per reception and has found the endzone twice this college football season. I expect him to see a few more looks as his Sooners travel to Neyland Stadium for a date with the Tennessee Volunteers.
What are some other names you’re keeping an eye on throughout the back half of the season? Are there any players in particular that you’re hoping to see in a Saints’ uniform in 2026? Let us hear it in the comments!
