We’ve reached the home stretch of the season, and this week we all witnessed the unveiling of the first college football playoff rankings.

The Oregon Ducks (9-0) hold the pole position, and are tailed by Georgia (7-1), Ohio State (7-1) and Miami (9-0.)

At this point, barring the unforeseen, it appears these squads are locks to make it to the new version of the big dance.

As that begins to take shape, so are the first few rounds of the NFL draft. Here are some players who have improved their perceived pre-draft stock that we should keep an eye on this Saturday.

Tyler Booker, IOL, Alabama

Booker is the top interior lineman in the class and given the injuries to James Daniels and Isaac Seumalo this season, it’s prudent the Steelers add another young bulldozer up front to pair with rookie G Mason McCormack.

Alabama will take on LSU on Saturday night; in what is sure to be the game of the week. Booker will go head-to-head against Tigers’ DT Maason Smith – another prospect who will make a lot of money in the upcoming draft.

Daylen Everette, DB, Georgia

I’ve highlighted Bulldogs S Malachi Starks on this list, but it’s time to give Everette some love. He has an NFL ready frame and his arm-length and size remind me of current Steelers CB Joey Porter Jr.

Donte Jackson has played well, but Everette would be an upgrade on the outside, and create a pairing that should help slow down the likes of star QBs Joe Burrow and Lamar Jackson for the next decade.

Everette will take on Ole Miss on the road this week, so a big-time test against a pass-heavy offense lies ahead.

Dani Dennis-Sutton, EDGE/DL, Penn State

Jackson is one of the most intimidating defensive prospects I’ve ever seen. He’s 6’5, 260 lbs, and can play both outside linebacker as well as 5-tech defensive tackle, showcasing outstanding versatility.

One thing is for certain – Pittsburgh will always prioritize the EDGE position. We just witnessed it with the addition of former Green Bay Packers OLB Preston Smith via trade. It’s likely the Steelers part ways with Smith after the season due to contract restraints, and adding another impact player next to Nick Herbig is critical so the team can provide Alex Highsmith and TJ Watt enough rest to keep them healthy during a stretch-run.

Dennis-Sutton’s Nittany Lions will face off against the Washington Huskies as they look to bounce back from a tough loss against Ohio State.

Deion Burks, WR, Oklahoma

I think it’s finally time to get to the offensive side of the ball, where the Steelers obviously have the most pressing needs.

Burks is small but has big-time playmaking ability. He missed the Sooners’ last contest against Auburn but is expected to be near full health against Missouri on Saturday.

The Purdue transfer led the Boilermakers in receptions (47) receiving yards (629) and receiving TDs (7) last season and is a constant mismatch for nickel defenders in the slot.

Princely Umanmielen, DL, Florida

I included Umanmielen because I’d love to see Yinzers try and pronounce his name.

Also, because he’s an excellent football player.

The senior is extremely versatile, with the ability to play both outside and on the defensive front. His pursuit of the football is outstanding.

He could use a bit more work on his pass-rush repertoire, but his long arms will be beneficial whenever he’s battling a stout offensive lineman.

Larry Ogunjobi is getting longer in the tooth, and Cam Heyward is going to need his snaps reduced, so it’s prudent to address the defensive line.

I’m pumped to watch the Gators in a big matchup at Georgia this weekend – a contest in which I’d anticipate a heavy dose of NFL scouts in attendance.

Who are you looking forward to watching this weekend? Let us know in the comments section!