BCS draft prospects

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BCS PROSPECTS: While one part of the 49ers building tries to compile new coach Jim Harbaugh's future coaching staff, another part is attempting to evaluate Harbaugh's future players, and that's where tonight's BCS Championship game between Auburn and Oregon comes in. 49ers fans should watch for these players tonight:

Auburn on offense: Cam Newton -quarterback. The junior Heismann Trophy winner did everything imaginable for this Auburn offense, including accounting for for 49 touchdowns (28 passing, 20 rushing, and one receiving). Yet some draftnicks don't like him. ESPN experts believe he's not a first round talent.

Terrell Zachery WR - Late round prospect and the second-leading receiver for the Tigers. Is also dangerous on end arounds.

Mario Fannin RB - Another late round prospect, but he has the size (230 pounds). He shares the back field with freshman Michael Dyer and sophomore Onterio McCalebb.

The Tigers have other prospects, particularly on the offensive line, but that's not an overriding need for the 49ers. The main one here is obviously Newton.

Auburn on defense: Nick Fairley - Defensive tackle. He's probably a top 10 pick and could be very intriguing for the 49ers at no. 7. He has 10.5 sacks and has been called a dirty player.

CB/S Aairon Savage: Missed 2009 and most of 2008 with injuries. Could be another late rounder. He has been playing mostly free safety.

OLB Craig Stevens: Solid tackler, but doesn't rush the passer much.

Oregon on offense: WR Jeffrey Maehl - The 6-1, 184-pound receiver is productive. He's one of the best receivers in the conference. He could have a big night, but isn't considered a top prospect. Could be a sleeper.

Oregon on defense: OLB Kenneth Rowe, an athletic pass rusher who could really help himself in this game. Sporting News says he's a middle-round prospect but could be a quick riser. Lacks ideal size.

CB Talmadge Jackson: The 49ers probably aren't interested because he's only 5-9. But is considered an excellent cover man and worth keeping an eye on.

ILB Casey Matthews: Yet another in a long line from the Matthews's football family. Not as talented as brother Clay but could be terrific special teams player in the late rounds.

Posted By: Kevin Lynch (Email) | January 10 2011 at 03:46 PM