This week, Will Stein and the Kentucky football team are preparing for their biggest game of the season so far when they take on the Tennessee Volunteers. In order to get the win, and keep their playoff hopes alive, they will need to control the line of scrimmage, and give the offense chances to score. The offensive line has been terrific this season, but will need a monumental effort on Saturday.

Lance Heard is the leader of the Wildcats offensive line, and has been one of the best tackles in the country this year. His performances have earned him a lot of attention, and getting him noticed by NFL teams. Lately, he has been creeping into the first round in mock drafts, and that's the case in the new USA TODAY Sports NFL mock draft.

In this week's update, Heard is projected to be the 26th pick in round one by the Kansas City Chiefs. Writer Michael Middlehurts-Schwartz writes:

Equipping Patrick Mahomes with at least one true threat at receiver might seem like the overwhelming top priority for an offense that has hit a wall in its two-game skid. But between Josh Simmons' inability to stay on the field and Jaylon Moore being on the final year of his deal, Kansas City is approaching a dangerous place on the future of its offensive line. A driving force behind Kentucky's surge this season, Heard has barreled into the first-round conversation with his punishing play.

Heard has been a very good pass blocker, and has plenty of upside in that area. He is also a devastating run blocker who loves to put defender on the ground. He's an aggressive, punishing blocker out in space, and plays with an attitude that NFL teams love.

On Saturday, Kentucky needs him to be at his best. The Volunteers have an elite defense capable of disrupting offenses. Heard has been up to the task so far on every Saturday he's been on the field. It won't be long until that play earns him a spot playing on Sundays.