For the 9th time in his 2.5 years at Wisconsin, Jonathan Taylor topped the 200-yard plateau with an impressive performance against a stout Hawkeye defensive line. He might not have reached the end zone on Saturday, but there’s absolutely no question who the catalyst is for the Badger offense. On the season, Taylor is nearing 1,300 rushing yards with 19 total touchdowns already to his credit. With at least 4 games left, Taylor has a real shot to reach the 6,000 career rushing yard plateau before he leaves for the NFL, as he currently sits at 5,430.
Throughout his incredibly productive college career, Taylor has proven time and time again that he is not only one of the most talented runners in recent memory, but that he is more than capable of handling a workhorse load. In his 38 career games, Taylor averages 21 carries, 143 yards, and 1.3 touchdowns per game. Those are some gaudy numbers, and Wisconsin has essentially tailored their entire gameplan to Taylor’s uncanny ability to produce under nearly any circumstance, even when the defense knows he’s getting the ball every single play.
On the flip side, however, the wear-and-tear that comes with 800+ carries could prove problematic for his draftability. He will have to prove that he can still handle a heavy workload, but the production speaks for itself. Taylor should be able to come in as an immediate-impact contributor, even more so if he refines his receiving abilities that are scarcely utilized at Wisconsin.
Projection: 2020 Late-1st round