For an NFL draft geek like me, the dream scenario is when the two best draft prospects on each team line up against one another. Tennessee and North Carolina St. will meet at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina on Saturday. The 14th-ranked Volunteers are coming off a convincing 69-3 victory over Tennessee Chattanooga. The 24th-ranked Wolfpack were down 21-17 entering the 4th quarter against Western Carolina but scored 21 unanswered points to win 38-21.All eyes will be on the matchup between Tennessee edge rusher James Pearce and North Carolina St offensive tackle Anthony Belton. Teams want to see how players fare against other NFL-caliber prospects. This is a golden opportunity for both players to show their skills in the national spotlight.
Dominant Pass Rusher
In the 2024 draft, no defensive player was drafted in the first 14 picks. This will not be the case in 2025. As a sophomore, the 6-foot-5 243-pound James Pearce was one of the best pass rushers in the country. He compiled 10 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, and a pick-six in the 35-0 Citrus Bowl victory over Iowa.Pearce has one of the most explosive first steps in the country. He has a wide variety of pass-rush moves that keep offensive linemen guessing. Pearce is a natural athlete and has no trouble dropping into coverage. He fits the modern 3-4 scheme that a majority of teams employ. His frame suggests he can put on weight if a team wants him to play with his hand in the dirt. I believe Pearce would go first overall if the draft were held today. He is currently #3 on the consensus draft big board.
Massive Tackle
Wolfpack tackle Anthony Belton is a massive tackle. Listed at 6-foot-6 356-pounds, Belton moves well for his size and has exceptional footwork that will allow him to handle speed rushers off the edge. He uses his hands well, and edge defenders struggle to disengage. A good athlete, Belton should be able to fit in both power and zone schemes at the next level. If Belton can somehow contain Pearce, he will no doubt rise up the draft boards. He is consensus #95 on the draft big board.
Final Thoughts
James Pearce likely circled this game on his calendar. The Charlotte native gets to play in his hometown and showcase his skills against an ascending 2025 NFL draft prospect. Belton has a great opportunity to show he can hold his own against the best pass rusher in the country. The Duke’s Mayo Classic starts at 7:30 this Saturday on ABC.
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