As the college football season progresses, Week 13 provided numerous examples of why the games are played. The Ohio State Buckeyes faced off against the Indiana Hoosiers in what appeared to be one of the most anticipated matchups of the regular season. However, the Buckeyes showcased their superior talent, with their defense overpowering Indiana’s previously potent offense.

In individual evaluations, a week's performance can significantly alter a player's trajectory. Recently, Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart received commendations for his grit, but his recent game against the Florida Gators saw him struggling as the nation's third-leading passer. In contrast, Alabama's Jalen Milroe has experienced a rollercoaster of performances, with his season reflecting the unpredictable nature of young talent. These evolving evaluations are critical as scouts from Moneyline, including Brandon Thorn, Cory Giddings, Dame Parson, and Matt Holder, continue analyzing prospects ahead of the 2025 draft cycle.

1. RB Devin Neal, Kansas - Each week, another running back emerges within this year's deep class. Kansas' Devin Neal stood out significantly, contributing with 37 carries for 207 rushing yards and four touchdowns against a talented Colorado Buffaloes team. Scout Dame Parson noted that Neal's elusiveness and ability to power through tackles defined his contributions, establishing him as a formidable presence as a three-down back.

2. Edge JT Tuimoloau, Ohio State - After Ohio State's dominant performance restricting Indiana to just 153 yards, several defensive players could have been recognized. However, JT Tuimoloau's consistent improvement this season and two sacks against Indiana highlighted his potential. Analyst Matt Holder emphasized that such performances during high-stakes games draw the attention of scouts across the league, especially with a Big Ten Championship Game looming.

3. WR Pat Bryant, Illinois - Illinois' Pat Bryant showcases the potential that has grown each college football season. He is on pace to surpass 1,000 receiving yards after a standout seven-catch, 197-yard display against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights, according to Parson, who noted Bryant’s ability to capitalize on defensive lapses and transition quickly from receiver to runner.

4. CB Upton Stout, Western Kentucky - Upton Stout, while undersized at 5'9" and 182 pounds, continues to show that size does not solely dictate a player's ability. His agile play and competitive nature have contributed to his rising draft stock, as Giddings highlighted Stout's quick transitions and fluidity in coverage, despite his physical challenges against larger opponents.

5. S Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, Toledo - Following the emergence of Quinyon Mitchell earlier this season, Toledo's Emmanuel McNeil-Warren is now making strides of his own with his physical traits and versatility on the field. Giddings remarked on McNeil-Warren's ability to excel in zone coverage and his strong tackling techniques, although challenges in man-to-man scenarios persist.

6. QB Jaxson Dart, Ole Miss - Jaxson Dart's ability to navigate tough competition came into question following his inconsistent showing against the Gators. Parson reported Dart's strong start to the game quickly gave way to struggles, highlighting concerning decision-making under pressure that led to costly turnovers.

7. Edge Nic Scourton, Texas A&M - Nic Scourton should have established himself as a potent edge defender; however, the Texas A&M transfer struggled in a recent loss against the Auburn Tigers. Holder noted that his inability to generate tackles and pressure significantly hindered his visibility in the draft conversations.

8. CB Will Lee III, Texas A&M - Will Lee III, showcasing promising potential earlier in the season, has faced challenges recently leading to a decline in his draft stock due to inconsistent coverage and notable lapses against faster opponents. Giddings underscored that these inconsistencies could hinder Lee's transition into the NFL.

9. OT Kelvin Banks Jr., Texas - Kelvin Banks Jr. had the chance to solidify his status as a top offensive tackle prospect but has displayed persistent balance issues, particularly when handling space against quick defenders. Thorn noted that while Banks has performed competently in his duties, concerns regarding adaptability linger as he transitions to the NFL.

10. QB Jalen Milroe, Alabama - Jalen Milroe's draft positioning is subject to fluctuations, highlighting his mixed performances throughout the season. With standout games against Georgia and LSU, but lackluster games against other opponents, Milroe's inconsistencies present a challenge for scouts evaluating his readiness for the next level.

The Cincinnati Bengals have previously taken a proactive approach in drafting players, often addressing needs ahead of schedule. With impending free agency for current defensive players, Ole Miss defensive tackle Walter Nolen offers the potential for disruption in opposing backfields, complementing the Bengals' defensive strategy in future seasons.

In a surprising move before the NFL trade deadline, the New Orleans Saints traded their top cornerback, Marshon Lattimore, to the Washington Commanders. With their pass defense currently ranking among the league's least effective, the Saints find themselves in need of re-establishing their defensive backfield, and Michigan's Will Johnson could address that need, despite recent injury issues.

The Cleveland Browns face pivotal decisions regarding their future and may consider selecting defensive tackle Mason Graham. As Deshaun Watson's future looks uncertain, Graham's disruptive capabilities can significantly boost Cleveland's defensive line alongside star player Myles Garrett, especially as key veterans prepare to transition out.

Speculation surrounding Aaron Rodgers' future continues, especially with reports indicating he may not return to the New York Jets for the 2025 season. The Jets must consider their options, with the prospect of drafting quarterback Jalen Milroe providing an opportunity for a new direction following their recent struggles.

Though it might appear excessive, the Tennessee Titans stand to benefit from consistently investing in their offensive line. With last season's poor performance still fresh, securing a talented offensive lineman such as LSU’s Will Campbell could strengthen their unit, particularly with the current alignment's struggle to protect the quarterback.

The Carolina Panthers are showing promising signs of improvement as they adjust their offseason focus. While addressing existing defensive concerns remains imperative, acquiring edge rusher James Pearce Jr. would enhance the Panthers' ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks, vital as they aim to elevate their defensive game moving forward.

Despite some recent successes, the New England Patriots must still invest in their receiving corps to support quarterback Drake Maye's development. Adding a top wide receiver prospect like Tetairoa McMillan would significantly impact their passing attack, ensuring that Maye has reliable targets as he continues to grow into his role.

While disappointing results have marked the Jacksonville Jaguars’ season, their current positioning allows for strategic moves in the upcoming draft. The potential drafting of a versatile talent like Travis Hunter could address their defensive issues while allowing the potential for offensive exploits with his unique dual-threat capabilities.

Finally, the Las Vegas Raiders find themselves poised to make a strategic move in the upcoming draft. With aspirations to secure a top quarterback prospect, the opportunity to trade up for Colorado's Shedeur Sanders may arise, allowing the organization to secure an exciting future under center that could revitalize their competitive landscape.