July 30, 2021
680 THE FAN, ATLANTA – Quarterbacks normally love to sit around the campfire and talk about receivers. I’m no different. In fact, I’m comfortable discussing the old-school, throwback playmakers and continue to track these current big-plays guys too. Entering 2021, there are some big-timers waiting to make plays.

Here is my Top 5 Receiver List in the Deep South.

1. Justyn Ross, Clemson. Sounds like Ross will be back in action, after dealing with a scary spinal condition. Word on the street says the Tigers will play him in the slot, instead of the X-WR spot (where he played previously). His ball skills on contested catches are tops, just ask the Tide. He averages 16.7 yards per catch and is a mismatch advantage, inside or outside. NFL talent and maturity. Set for a huge season working with Big Cinco.
2. Treylon Burks, Arkansas. A little under the radar entering this season but make no mistake… this dude is a playmaker. He has polished up his route-running and has developed into a dangerous, all-around receiver. He can hurt you down the field and is also dangerous after the catch on short throws. In his first two seasons, he racked up 17 plays over 20-yards. Explosive.
3. John Metchie, Alabama. The next big thing at Alabama playing receiver. He flashed last season with 55 catches and averaged 16.7 yards per catch. I like his all-around skill set. Great hands. Outstanding route runner. There is a lot to like.
4. Kayshon Boutte, LSU. This playmaker exploded onto the national scene last year, when he lit up Ole Miss with a 14-catch, 300-plus yard, 3 TD performance. Excels working the middle of the field on crossing routes. Strong physically on the slant route. Coach O re-installed the Joe Brady passing scheme, so Boutte will be featured a lot. Competitive. Athletic. Expect a big season.
5. Jermaine Burton, Georgia. This weapon did not look like a freshman last season. He burst onto the scene making plays downfield and quickly developed chemistry with JT Daniels. Burton’s press-man release is outstanding, which allows him to get separation. He seems to have a special knack for adjusting to the deep ball. Has great hands. Advanced route runner. I’m looking for him to be one of JT’s go-to guys and take another big step forward.

Please understand that this is a Deep South list. So, that eliminates some of College Football’s top-rated receivers. We all know Chris Olave and Marvin Mims are special players. As far as Arik Gilbert goes, I’m anxious to see him play at the X-WR position and anticipate he is going to be special too.

Stay tuned. Tracking all these players should be fun!

Buck Belue
Host of the “Buck Belue Show”
680 The Fan – Atlanta