San Diego State vs. Louisiana-Lafayette; New Orleans Bowl NFL Draft watch notes

The biggest draft-related question entering tonight’s New Orleans Bowl is the status of San Diego State running back Ronnie Hillman. Only a redshirt sophomore, there is discussion that Hillman will enter the draft after posting his second consecutive season of more than 1,500 yards rushing.

Hillman is a quick and fast runner who can be hard to catch from behind. He’s not as advanced as a blocker or receiver, but he’s ready for the NFL as a pure runner.

Aztecs quarterback Ryan Lindley has disappointed this season, completing just 52.5 percent of his passes. At this point, Lindley should only be considered as a late-round quarterback, at best.

Arguably the top draft prospect in tonight’s game is Louisiana-Lafayette tight end Ladarius Green. He’s typically not used on the line of scrimmage with his hand down, so his in-line blocking is questionable. But Green shows great hands at times and has enough speed to be utilized vertically.

UL-L cornerback Dwight Bentley is starting to garner buzz from draft analysts. He has solid size at 5-foot-10 and 180 pounds. He should be tested some tonight and has upside as a nickel corner in the NFL. Bentley has three interceptions this season.

For more prospects to watch, make sure to download the watch list put together by the marvelous 3k.

In this game last season: Troy beat Ohio 48-21.

Also see: Bill Connelly's preview is here.

2013 NFL Draft watch: Look out for San Diego State guard Nik Embernate. He’s a really god pass blocker and coming along in the run game.