6 Players Lions Should Watch in Week 8

The Detroit Lions will continue to keep their eye on the collegiate circuit while enjoying their success in the 2023 season. With general manager Brad Holmes' background in scouting, the organization will be in search of the next top crop of draft picks.

So far, Holmes has built a strong track record. The 2024 NFL Draft will offer him more opportunities to add talent to a strong roster.

Here are six prospects the Lions should watch in Week 8 of the college football season:

Oklahoma LB Danny Stutsman

Game: Noon vs. UCF (ABC)

Oklahoma's defense has been superb this season and a driving force for their undefeated start. Stutsman is the anchor, contributing in a variety of ways for the Sooners.

He has 12 pressures on the year to go with 35 tackles, two sacks and an interception. Stutsman has some versatility, being able to play either as a middle linebacker or the WILL position.

Stutsman is strong and physical, making him a fit for Detroit's defensive play styles. The Lions have a strong core of linebackers building, and the Sooner could be a solid addition to that group.

Penn State CB Kalen King

Game: Noon at Ohio State (FOX)

King and company have a tall task Saturday, taking on Ohio State in the day's marquee game. The battle of unbeaten will feature plenty of talent on both sides, but the matchup on the perimeter may be the most intriguing.

The Nittany Lions' secondary will have to deal with the Buckeyes' talented array of wide receivers, headlined by first round prospects Marvin Harrison Jr. and Emeka Egbuka.

As a result, King's prospect status will be tested. Last season against the Buckeyes, he allowed five completions for 93 yards on seven total targets. He'll need a strong performance this season, as he's transitioned to being the team's top corner after Joey Porter Jr.'s departure to the NFL.

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Washington EDGE Zion Tupuola-Fetui

Game: 10:30 p.m. vs. Arizona State (FS1)

Washington has a pair of solid rushers in Bralen Trice and Zion Tupuola-Fetui, which has been a big reason for their success. Though Tupuola-Fetui has had a slower start with just two sacks, there's plenty of potential in the prospect.

On the season, he has two sacks and nine total pressures. He is coming off a solid showing against Oregon in what was a phenomenal contest, tallying two hurries.

Against Arizona State, Tupuola-Fetui could be in for a strong showing against a struggling offensive line. He is rated as a mid-round pick, which could be the perfect place for the Lions to find a developmental rusher with a strong ceiling.

Florida State WR Johnny Wilson

Game: 7:30 p.m. vs. Duke (ABC)

After missing the Seminoles' most recent game against Syracuse, Wilson is expected to return to the lineup Saturday against Duke.

Wilson is an intriguing prospect based on size alone, standing 6-foot-7. He would be an instant red zone threat with the ability to develop into a physical deep threat. He's been overshadowed by Keon Coleman, but there's plenty to like about the talented prospect.

So far in 2023, Wilson has tallied 20 catches for 357 yards and two touchdowns. He transferred to FSU from Arizona State prior to last season and enjoyed a breakout 2022 campaign for the Seminoles.

Michigan RB Blake Corum

Game: 7:30 p.m. at Michigan State (NBC)

The Wolverines and Spartans will battle for the Paul Bunyan Trophy Saturday night in prime time. Corum and the Wolverines offense will take center stage as they look to continue their pursuit of an undefeated season.

Corum's draft stock has been intriguing to follow, as he is believed to be among the top players at his position. Yet, he's lacked the luster typically portrayed by the best of the best with 546 rushing yards in seven games.

He already has 12 touchdowns, though, and some of his lack of production has to do with the Wolverines rolling over their first seven opponents. He should get a chance to shine against his rival, though, in a matchup that will warrant a follow from football fans within the state.

Texas DL T'Vondre Sweat

Game: 4 p.m. at Houston (FOX)

Sweat is among the highest rated defensive linemen by Pro Football Focus, boasting a 90.0 pass rush grade that ranks second amongst his position. He has one sack and three pressures to this point playing on the defensive interior.

The Lions have been by committee alongside Alim McNeill in that area, as several players have gotten opportunities to play meaningful snaps. Sweat has been an impact player, already making four tackles for loss.

The Longhorns' defender's development in his fifth season shows that there remains room to grow for him. If a team can tap into that potential at the next level, it will allow them to reap the benefits.