Best deep-ball catchers
Even the best deep-ball thrower still needs someone to reel the pass in.
Rankings criteria: at least 1.5 targets per game with air yardage of 20+ yards. Players are ranked on catch rate and yards per catch, with extra credit given to larger target numbers.
5. Romeo Doubs, Nevada
Stat line: 3.3 long targets per game, 37% catch rate, 48.9 yards per catch
The Matt Mumme offense is one of quick, easy efficiency throws. Nevada is one of the favorites in the MWC West, however, because Doubs will punish any defensive back who anticipates the short ball.
4. Jaylon Robinson, UCF
Stat line: 2.0 long targets per game, 55% catch rate, 42.2 yards per catch
New head coach Gus Malzahn inherits a skill corps hit pretty hard by attrition, but quarterback
Dillon Gabriel will still have both Robinson and
Ryan O'Keefe, under-6-foot speedsters who each averaged at least 17.8 yards per catch.
3. Jalen Nailor, Michigan State
Stat line: 2.4 long targets per game, 41% catch rate, 46.7 yards per catch
If Michigan State was making a big play in 2020, it was almost certainly Nailor or freshman
Ricky Whitedoing the damage. Just imagine what Nailor could do with any semblance of a run game for opponents to fear.
2. Jaylen Hall, Western Michigan
Stat line: 2.2 long targets per game, 46% catch rate, 50.6 yards per catch
Eleby-to-Hall is one of the most proven and scary combinations in
1. Khalil Shakir, Boise State
Stat line: 2.4 long targets per game, 53% catch rate, 40.2 yards per catch
As with Nailor, Shakir was saddled with having to make
most of his team's big plays. But damned if he didn't pull it off quite a bit.