The games are played for a reason. Week 13 of the college football season provided multiple examples as to why, but they start with the trending prospects that the Bleacher Report Scouting Department identified.

On paper, the Ohio State Buckeyes hosting the Indiana Hoosiers looked like the biggest matchup of the regular season. But it turns out the Buckeyes are just too talented, with the Ohio State defense dominating the Hoosiers' previously high-flying offense.

From an individual perspective, a week can change everything.

A week ago, Ole Miss' Jaxson Dart showed a level of grit and tenacity that earned well-deserved praise. Against the Florida Gators this past weekend, the nation's third-leading passer completely melted down.

Then, there's someone like Alabama's Jalen Milroe, whose ups and downs this season are akin to a group of 12-year-olds at an extreme trampoline park.

Everything must be evaluated, taken into context and adjusted as the B/R's scouts—Brandon Thorn, Cory Giddings, Dame Parson and Matt Holder—continue through the 2025 draft cycle.

Those evolving evaluations are then reflected in this weeks' top-10 mock draft, where the Las Vegas Raiders didn't go bargain shopping on Black Friday.

Trending Up

1. RB Devin Neal, Kansas

Every week, another running back finds a deserving spot on B/R's trending list. The depth of this year's position class is the best in recent memory.

Kansas' Devin Neal is the latest to show out in a big game. He almost single-handedly helped the Jayhawks beat the star-studded Colorado Buffalo, with 37 carries for 207 rushing yards and four total touchdowns.

"Neal accounted for nearly 300 total yards against Colorado," Parson said. "He displayed power and strength as a runner to fight off defenders after contact. He forced multiple missed tackles with his elusiveness and shiftiness in space as a runner and receiver out of the backfield. He proved he can handle a heavy workload as a three-down back with 41 touches."

2. Edge JT Tuimoloau, Ohio State

Multiple Ohio State defenders could have been named this week after their dominant performance against the previously unbeaten Indiana Hoosiers, who were held to a measly 153 yards.

JT Tuimoloau gets the nod in this case, not just because of his performance but how he's continually improved.

"Ohio State had plenty on the line last weekend with their playoff hopes in jeopardy, and Tuimoloau came up big with a couple of sacks and a handful of pressures," Holder said. "While some of those were schemed up via stunts or line games, he showed some improved athleticism and bend to get to the quarterback, which has been a common theme this season.

"A strong performance in a big game will certainly catch the attention of scouts across the league, especially if the Buckeye can carry this momentum into the Big 10 Championship Game and playoffs."

3. WR Pat Bryant, Illinois

Illinois' Pat Bryant is an excellent example of a prospect who has gotten better with each passing season, thus making himself a far more tantalizing option for the NFL draft.

He is set to eclipse 1,000 receiving yards for the first time in his collegiate career, and Saturday's effort against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights will serve as the game most scouts will go back and watch over and over again.

"In Bryant's seven-catch, 197-yard performance, he displayed his plus-level route-running and separation ability against solo man coverage," Parson said. "Most of Bryant's damage against Rutgers' secondary came after the catch. He transitioned from receiver to runner with quickness and decisiveness.

"Bryant won the game on a catch-and-run, settling into the soft spots of the defensive coverage before avoiding upfield defenders to cross the goal line."

4. CB Upton Stout, Western Kentucky

Size matters not if a prospect can play. Case in point, Western Kentucky's Upton Stout is listed at 5'9" and 182 pounds. Smaller corners have a place in the NFL, but those restrictions tend to create disadvantages. For Stout, his surname is appropriate.

"Stout's stock is trending up due to his explosive athleticism and competitive edge," Giddings said. "Despite being undersized, he plays with a chip on his shoulder, using his twitchy acceleration and smooth transitions to stay with receivers downfield. His fluid pedal, ability to flip his hips quickly and explosive closing speed make him a strong presence in coverage, especially when attacking the ball in the air.

"While his smaller frame can lead to struggles against bigger receivers and ball-carriers, his willingness to engage and aggressive mindset stand out. With continued development, Stout has the potential to become a dynamic and impactful defender at the next level."

5. S Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, Toledo

Earlier this year, the Toledo Rockets produced the top defensive back prospect for the NFL draft. The program is starting a mini-pipeline.

Emmanuel McNeil-Warren might not reach the same status as former teammate Quinyon Mitchell did, but he's every bit a draftable option.

"McNeil-Warren brings impressive physical traits and ability to contribute in multiple areas of the game," Giddings said. "With very good length and size, he excels in zone coverage and shows strong athleticism, closing ground quickly when coming forward. His burst and strength allow him to handle tight ends and smaller receivers alike, while his aggression in the run game makes him a solid tackler who can deliver big hits.

"His ability to trigger quickly downhill is a key strength, allowing him to be an asset in run support. Although he struggles with footwork in man coverage and can be inconsistent with his physicality against blockers, his development in these areas could elevate him into a more complete player at the next level."

Trending Down

1. QB Jaxson Dart, Ole Miss

The biggest concern about Jaxson Dart's game happened to be how he'd handle top competition when Ole Miss' quarterback-friendly offense didn't provide an expansive runway.

Last week's performance against the Georgia Bulldogs was supposed to be his defining movement. Instead, the 21-year-old signal-caller couldn't hold it together against the Florida Gators.

"Dart started the game strong and fast," Parson said, "but his performance dwindled. He struggled to complete passes outside the numbers and down the field. His processing and field progressions were concerning as the coverage became tighter.

"His decision-making with the game on the line was particularly troublesome. He threw passes into multi-defender windows, showcasing uncontrollable aggressiveness, leading to two interceptions and losing the game for his team. If things are not easily schemed up/open, Dart has not responded well."

2. Edge Nic Scourton, Texas A&M

Texas A&M's Nic Scouton should be a consistent presence on a weekly basis because of his outstanding all-around skill set.

That's not always the case, though.

"While Texas A&M's heart-breaking loss to the Auburn Tigers didn't fall on Scourton's shoulders, he didn't help the cause," Holder said. "He was a ghost, failing to record a single tackle and didn't get much pressure as a pass-rusher.

"The Purdue transfer had the potential to establish himself as the top edge defender in this year's draft class but has been rather pedestrian for the majority of the campaign."

3. CB Will Lee III, Texas A&M

In Auburn's four-overtime win over the Aggies, the Tigers eclipsed 300 passing yards.

Texas A&M cornerback Will Lee III showed a lot of promise early in the season, but he hasn't been the same player as of late.

"Lee's draft stock is on a slight down trend due to inconsistent play and coverage lapses that have been exposed in recent games," Giddings said. "While his size (6'3", 190 lbs) and athleticism are promising, He has struggled with his transitions with off-coverage, often losing ground and giving up leverage to receivers, especially when pressed with speed.

"A notable example came in the Auburn game, where he gave up a touchdown early due to these issues, leading to him being limited to under 20 snaps in that contest and none in the second half of that game.

"His habit of sitting on routes and struggling to regain leverage has made him vulnerable to bigger plays, and his hand-usage in press coverage has been too aggressive, sometimes resulting in penalties.

"Although Lee's physical traits and tackling ability are strong, these coverage inconsistencies and mental lapses are raising questions about his readiness for the NFL, leading to concerns about his development at the next level."

4. OT Kelvin Banks Jr., Texas

Josh Simmons' season-ending leg injury opened the door for another prospect to secure the mantle as the 2025 class' OT1.

Texas' Kelvin Banks Jr. was the obvious option. He's failed to do so, though.

"Banks has maintained a solid level of play over the last couple of weeks but has recurring balance and re-leveraging issues after initially getting overextended that has led to him falling off of a couple of blocks a game against slippery defenders," Thorn said. "These typically occur on angle-drive blocks on the frontside when he has to navigate space before contact and defenders are able to shift prior to contact. This changes the aiming points and Banks doesn't always adjust well to a shifting target causing him to lean and then lose control when defenders sidestep, creating soft edges. This is also something that occurs in pass protection and is one of the primary reasons why many evaluators have mentioned Banks being a best fit at guard at the NFL level.

"Banks is executing his job at a fairly high level this year. Upon deeper inspection, these issues remain a concern when projecting to him dealing with NFL defenders."

5. QB Jalen Milroe, Alabama

Jalen Milroe's draft stock may be the most volatile of any prospect in recent memory. He looked phenomenal against the Georgia Bulldogs and the LSU Tigers. Yet the Crimson Tide QB played poorly against the Tennessee Volunteers and Oklahoma Sooners.

Which version is going to show up at the next level?

"Milroe continues to be a roller-coaster ride of quarterback play," Parson said. "Against Oklahoma, he threw three interceptions and zero touchdowns. His explosive running ability was contained, and, without it, he was ineffective in throwing the football from the pocket.

"Milroe's 2024 season has been nothing more than a flash of passing ability and inconsistency from the pocket. He has some tremendous traits. But he's a high-risk option."

10. Cincinnati Bengals: DL Walter Nolen, Ole Miss

The Cincinnati Bengals front office has a history of investing in a position one year too early, instead of too late. The selection of Ole Miss defensive tackle Walter Nolen is no different.

First, B.J. Hill is a pending free agent once this season concludes. Second, Sheldon Rankins will be entering the final year of his current deal.

Plus, the Bengals have to take into account what may happen with defensive end Trey Hendrickson, who leads the NFL with 11.5 sacks after requesting a trade this past offseason and then not receiving a reworked contract.

Basically, Cincinnati's defensive front could be overhauled dramatically in 2025 and beyond.

Nolen can provide another linemen capable of creating mismatches, with his ability to get upfield and create havoc in opposing backfield. Even with Hendrickson still on the roster, the Ole Miss product can be an ideal complement to give the Bengals a strong inside-out presence.

Cincinnati doesn't need to rush adding another wide receiver if/when Tee Higgins leaves, but quality options in the trenches aren't as easy to find.

9. New Orleans Saints: CB Will Johnson, Michigan

Prior to the NFL trade deadline, the New Orleans Saints chose to move their best cornerback, Marshon Lattimore, to the Washington Commanders. It's time to replace him.

Granted, the Saints have invested quite a bit in the position recently, with Alontae Taylor, Paulson Adebo and Kool-Aid McKinstry being drafted within the last three years. However, those investments have yet to fully mature, with the team currently ranked among the league's bottom three teams in pass defense.

As the old saying goes: "A team can't have too many good cornerbacks."

In New Orleans' case, it's not positioned well to take a quarterback. The organization chose a left tackle in this year's draft. Plus, the front office invested heavily in the defensive front over the years. Cornerback is a premium position where the sliding scale of value meets needs.

Will Johnson has dealt with a toe injury this fall and missed the last four games for Michigan. He may not even play against the Wolverines' hated rival, the Ohio State Buckeyes, on Saturday.

However, a healthy Johnson is the best pure cover corner in the nation. He can immediately enter the Saints' lineup as a top option.

8. Cleveland Browns: DL Mason Graham, Michigan

The possibility of placing Mason Graham along the Cleveland Browns' defensive interior with Myles Garrett working off the edge feels diabolical. But here we are.

The Browns have significant decisions to make after this season, specifically at the quarterback position. Deshaun Watson looks to be on his way out after rupturing an Achilles tendon and proving next-to-nothing the two-plus seasons with the team prior to that point. Jameis Winston could be the team's bridge, but he's so erratic from week to week.

Then again, Cleveland isn't positioned well in this scenario. Winston, plus the addition of another elite talent at a different position, may be the likeliest possibility.

The Browns can't go entirely wrong by selecting Michigan defensive tackle Mason Graham, who is currently ranked as the second overall prospect by the B/R Scouting Department.

The 21-year-old is a consistent disruptive force, both against the run and pass. He and Garrett can be an outstanding one-two punch for years to come.

The addition is also important considering both Dalvin Tomlinson and Shelby Harris will be 31 or older entering next season.

7. New York Jets: QB Jalen Milroe, Alabama

The drama has already begun with Aaron Rodgers' offseason decision.

First, a report surfaced from Dianna Russini of The Athletic that stated: "...Rodgers still wants to play in 2025, just not for the New York Jets."

The veteran quarterback flatly denied the report during his weekly spot on The Pat McAfee Show. He said: "I don't even know if I want to play yet, but New York would be my first option."

This opens up another question of whether the future Hall of Famer will actually play in 2025.

The Jets should make the decision easy for Rodgers and simply move on, whether he wants to come back or not. The all-in approach hasn't worked. It has backfired completely, with New York staring down yet another top-10 selection.

If that remains the case, the Jets can take a chance on a quarterback with immense upside in Jalen Milroe.

The 21-year-old has experienced a roller-coaster season with Alabama, looking phenomenal one week and nearly unplayable the next. However, his elite athleticism and natural arm talent will be far too tempting for some teams to resist for too long during next year's draft.

6. Tennessee Titans: OL Will Campbell, LSU

Three offensive linemen among the top 11 selections during three consecutive draft classes may seem like overkill. It's not for the Tennessee Titans.

They fielded the league's worst offensive line as recently as last season.

While the group had one solid piece in place with left guard Peter Skoronski, the rest of the front five required upgrades, hence JC Latham's selection with this year's No. 7 overall draft pick. He seems to have secured left tackle, but the right side of the line remains a major problem area.

Will Campbell has started every game as a left tackle for LSU since walking onto campus. Interestingly, he may not play on the blindside at the next level or even at tackle.

The 20-year-old is the most polished offensive-line prospect for next year's class. He has the natural ability to make the transition from left to right tackle. But some questions linger about his recovery athleticism and overall length for a tackle prospect.

The Titans should find value with this pick somewhere, though. Even if Campbell doesn't transition to right tackle, he should excel as a guard.

Either way, Tennessee will be better in the trenches.

5. Carolina Panthers: Edge James Pearce Jr., Tennessee

With the Carolina Panthers playing much better as of late and Bryce Young again starting, the organization's offseason blueprint has been adjusted.

While Young may not be the quarterback the franchise initially envisioned upon trading up to take him with the No. 1 overall pick in 2023, he's earned an opportunity to prove himself after being benched earlier this season.

Quarterback was the team's primary concern a month ago. Now, the Panthers can look to improve the rest of their roster. The front office chose to trade Brian Burns this past offseason. It shows. The Carolina defense ranks 31st in sacks.

Tennessee's James Pearce Jr. dealt with a similar trajectory to the Panthers entering this season. Initially, high hopes existed for progression, but he started slowly. He wasn't benched, but people became curious if he'd produce like he did as a first-team All-SEC performer in 2023. In recent weeks, his level of performance has ratcheted up, with six sacks in this last six games.

His quickness and flexibility off the edge can give the Panthers someone to win one-on-one matchups or cause offenses to slide pass protections in his direction and create opportunities for others.

4. New England Patriots: WR Tetairoa McMillan, Arizona

Drake Maye is a budding star. The New England Patriots got that draft pick right. The rest of this year's class? Not so much.

Two of those selections happened to be wide receivers. Ja'Lynn Polk and Javon Baker, who were second- and fourth-round picks, respectively, have combined to make 12 receptions for 87 yards. All of those came courtesy of Polk.

Meanwhile, tight end Hunter Henry leads the squad in receptions and receiving yardage.

An investment in a legitimate threat at wide receiver should work wonders for Maye and his development, and Tetairoa McMillan is the class' top pure wide receiver prospect.

The 6'5" target is the only wide receiver at the FBS level with 65 or more receptions while averaging at least 16 yards per catch. No one else in the nation even reaches 15.

A season ago, the Arizona receiver was one of two targets with 90 receptions while averaging over 15 yards per grab. Rome Odunze, who was drafted ninth overall by the Chicago Bears this past spring, was the other.

With McMillan's size and ability to create after the catch, he would immediately take over as the Patriots' WR1 and become Maye's favorite target sooner or later.

3. Jacksonville Jaguars (via Las Vegas): CB/WR Travis Hunter, Colorado

The Jacksonville Jaguars couldn't ask for a better setup...from an NFL draft perspective, that is.

Of course, they held much higher hopes entering the campaign only to fall flat. The franchise suffered massive disappointment with what looked like a highly competitive roster on paper.

However, in the midst of a lost season that may result in multiple firings, the team does have somewhat of a silver lining for next offseason. The Jaguars aren't in need of a quarterback, which creates the opportunity to trade down slightly and still land the best overall talent in the 2025 class, which is exactly what occurs in this scenario.

Travis Hunter is truly a unique prospect. The NFL hasn't seen a two-way player of this caliber in the modern era. He is simultaneously an elite cornerback prospect and a first-round-caliber wide receiver. His ball skills when playing both positions are second to none.

For the Jaguars, who own the league's worst pass defense, the Colorado product's primary position seems obvious. But he shouldn't be ruled out as a candidate for specific offensive sub-packages.

Jacksonville would have liked to compete for a playoff spot this season, but that's not going to happen. Instead, the Jaguars leverage their current draft pick into extra assets and add a special player to the lineup.

2. Las Vegas Raiders (via Jacksonville): QB Shedeur Sanders, Colorado

A trade up by the Las Vegas Raiders seems way too obvious for it only being the day after Thanksgiving. Yet the organization has positioned itself to a point where it feels almost inevitable.

With the Raiders sitting anywhere inside the top-five draft picks, thus within striking distance of the first or second overall selection and a team not needing a quarterback slotted into one of those spots, Las Vegas must remain aggressive and not allow what happened in this year's draft to occur again.

The Raiders can't be left standing as the lone QB-needy team to not select one in next year's first round. They can look around the league and see how the Chicago Bears, Washington Commanders, New England Patriots and Denver Broncos have been energized based on the flashes of play from their rookie signal-callers.

A simple flip of picks between Las Vegas and Jacksonville should get it done.

The target for a trade-up is obvious. Colorado's Shedeur Sanders is a perfect fit for the franchise. If that also requires moving on from head coach Antonio Pierce after only one year to hire Sanders' father, Deion, to run the team, so be it.

The bright-lights Vegas-caliber show aspect of that approach aside, Sanders is a legit prospect and in the conversation to be QB1 for the 2025 class.

When working in rhythm and from a clean pocket—which can be a rarity for the Buffaloes—the 22-year-old is a deadly passer. He's also improved tremendously this fall when pressured.

1. New York Giants: QB Cam Ward, Miami

All the New York Giants need to do is select their next franchise quarterback. No pressure.

The organization's biggest worry while owning the No. 1 overall pick is picking the wrong individual after seeing the Daniel Jones era end in a whimper.

New York's next step will be critical. Maybe the Giants decide to go the veteran route by pursuing a Sam Darnold or Justin Fields. In this case, the organization choses the B/R Scouting Department's QB1 in Cam Ward.

The 22-year-old has been sensational during his lone season with the Miami Hurricanes.

The fifth-year senior leads the nation with 34 touchdowns passes and ranks second with 3,774 passing yards—a Hurricanes program record surpassing the great Bernie Kosar.

More importantly, Ward has mostly stayed away from the crippling mistakes he made earlier in his career when trying to do too much. Instead, he's been at his best when games mattered the most.

The two-time transfer has helped Miami reclaim a national spotlight, which is something the Giants desperately need. Jones was a reach at the time of his drafting in 2019, and his natural play-making ability as a thrower and runner are nowhere near close to Ward's.

New York could go in another direction at the game's most important position, but that would be a mistake. A reinvestment in another top quarterback prospect, specifically Ward, is the way to go.