Senior Bowl is chance for players to shine

The Senior Bowl wrapped up this past weekend and Hot Read Sports was there to cover all the action (you can tell by our professional camera work).  What exactly is the Senior Bowl?  It’s essentially an All-Star game for college seniors who want to

raise their draft stock by playing against other top notch talent (a measuring stick of sorts).  Some players improved their draft spots considerably this past Saturday, while others couldn’t get anything going.

The most hyped player in the game was Tim Tebow, quarterback from Florida.  The knock on Tebow coming into the game was that he was not projected as a quarterback in the NFL.  Most scouts believe he isn’t a pro-style QB and feel that a position switch to H-back is necessary for his success at the next level.  They were right.  All game Tebow looked uncomfortable in the pocket running the offense.  He finished the day going 8-12 for 50 yds.  He also added 4 yards rushing.  Not what I call stellar.  Tebow needs to shift his focus and learn a new position. As of right now he is no higher than a 3rd round pick.  His best asset is his ability to lead.  And WIN.

Marty Gilyard, WR Cincinnati, was the star of the day.  Already considered a top WR, Gilyard impressed with 5 catches for 103 yards and a TD.  He was chosen the offensive player of the game.  Gilyard likely improved his draft stock to the 2nd round.

Dan LeFevour, QB Central Michigan, opened some eyes at QB in this game.  He finished with 97 yards passing and a TD.  Coming from a small school didn’t deter LeFevour from showcasing his ability and raising his draft stock.

Dexter McCluster/Ath Ole Miss,  came into this game with one big knock.  Or should I say little knock.  SIZE!  McCluster has ridiculous speed, but the question is if his 5’8 165lb frame could hold up throughout an NFL season.  Projected as a utility player and returner at the next level, McCluster failed to impress.  He did have 60 return yards and 30 receiving yards, but he also had -1 yards rushing and 2 fumbles.  The fumbles being the most glaring.

A few other players who showed well offensively: Jeremy Williams/WR Tulane, Zac Robinson/QB Oklahoma St., Lonyae Miller/RB Fresno St.

Personally, the STARS were on the defensive side of the ball.

Brandon Graham/DL Michigan, finished as the games MVP.  He recorded 2 sacks and had a forced fumble.  He could be moving into the first round.

Kyle Wilson/DB Boise St, showed well during the week and could possible be the first cornerback taken.  Late 1st round is my guess.

Daryl Washington/LB TCU, impressed all week and might have raised his draft stock the most.  Once considered a 3rd round selection, Washington could have impressed his way into the first round.  He is a little small for an NFL LB, but his speed and instincts are off the chart.  Look for his numbers at the combine to shock some people.  This guy can flat out play.

Javier Arenas/DB Alabama, how can you not like this guy?  He’s a true workhorse.  For a guy who is undersized he definitely makes up for it with heart and determination.  Did I mention his abilities in the return game are amazing?  Arenas could be one of those corners that we talk about for many years to come.

Jamar Chaney/ Mississippi St., showed well on Saturday.  He earned defensive player of the game honors

Taylor Mays/S USC was being looked at closely during the game.  NFL scouts love his size, but they wanted to know about his range and ball skills.  Mays was able to make an INT during the game and return it for 19 yards to keep the scouts appetites wet.  He’s a talent.

That’s all I’ve got from the game.  It was absolutely frigid on Saturday down in Mobile, AL.  We look forward to covering these players again real soon at the NFL combine.

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