Another week of college football in the books means another player spotlight. This week I’m excited to highlight an Oregon DB that has never gotten the recognition he deserves. Now, it is finally Verone McKinley III’s time.

The Oregon Ducks went into Columbus to face the Ohio State Buckeyes, and none of us really gave them a chance. The matchup I was most looking forward to in this game was Ohio State’s lethal passing attack versus a very strong Oregon secondary. This clash was elite and lived up to the hype. In the process, McKinley showed up in a big way and finally put his name on the map. The redshirt sophomore and Carrolton, Texas, native was a monster on Saturday as he collected six tackles, two pass deflections, forced a fumble on a kick return, and sealed the game with a massive interception late in the game.

Verone McKinley III with a HUGE pick off C.J. Stroud 😱

Oregon has the ball and the lead, minutes away from a massive upset.

🎥 @CFBONFOXpic.twitter.com/4vxSCyTNTT

— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) September 11, 2021

McKinley was quite literally everywhere in this game, and that’s just par for the course. McKinley is frequently moving around the field and lining up from different spots. While listed as a cornerback and safety, he’s incredibly versatile and his athleticism is easy to spot. He often helps in run support and is never afraid to go into the trenches. I think he does a very good job of timing the exact moment when to jar the ball loose as a receiver is trying to catch a pass. We saw him with some big-time pass breakups in this game. 

Verone displays a high level of instincts and intelligence as well. Bruh, this dude is different, and he is always in the right spots!!! Not only is he always taking the right angles and in the right position, he also has a supreme knowledge of the sport. You’ve just got to listen to this man speak about football. He’s so knowledgeable about the game in every facet imaginable. You’ll hear him talking about football for a living when his playing days are over, guarantee that. Right now you can listen to Verone and some of his friends talk about football and other topics on The Check Fade Podcast.

DK Metcalf vs. Patrick Peterson one week from now.

Via: @TheEliteMedia_

@jtaylor6_ had @vmckinley3 and @totaltroutmove rollin 😂 pic.twitter.com/xi6EdnizLo

— William Cornell (@raincityseries) October 19, 2020

Verone McKinley III is here, and he is here to stay. The bright young mind will be around football for a really long time so familiarize yourself with this superb and unique talent sooner rather than later.