Jack Conklin and J.J. Watt have a lot in common.

Both of them came into college as unheralded, walk-ons. Both of them became All-Americans as upperclassmen. Both of them turned themselves into first-round NFL prospects.

More than likely, it won’t be long before they get the chance to face off on Sunday. Conklin is apparently champing at the bit for that to happen.

The former Michigan State offensive tackle joined the NFL Network crew on Wednesday. He was asked who was the one player he was looking forward to facing off with in the NFL.

He chose Watt.

“I want to prove myself against the best guys and I think if I can handle (Watt), I can handle anybody,” Conklin said on NFL Network.

But the real question was, do you think you can take Watt?

“Yes sir,” Conklin said. “I believe I can.”

That’s quite the confident claim from Conklin. Watt is a three-time AP Defensive Player of the Year in his prime who has 74.5 career sacks. Many already consider him the top defensive player of the 21st century.

But at the same time, what’s Conklin supposed to say? No, he can’t take Watt?

Either way, Conklin isn’t lacking confidence heading into the draft. If and when Conklin gets selected in the first round, it’ll mark the third straight year in which Michigan State has a player drafted on the first day.

But if and when these two former B1G stars square off, don’t expect Watt to forget Conklin’s pre-draft claim.