Over the last 10 years, the importance of the Florida State/Miami game has dwindled among talent evaluators.
Florida State/Miami game lacks past glory
It was once a treasure trove of prospects. In the 2006 draft, 17 players from the two schools were drafted. There were 14 Canes or ‘Noles taken in both the 2005, 2004 and 2003 drafts.
Miami especially had a bounty of players. Consider the 2004 NFL Draft when six Hurricanes were selected in the first round. Or the four first rounders in 2003, or the five in 2002. Stars like Andre Johnson, Vince Wilfork, Bryant McKinnie, Ed Reed, Antrel Rolle and Jonathan Vilma have come from "The U."
Florida State has produced talents like Ernie Sims, Alex Barron, Anquan Boldin and Darnell Dockett.
This year, though, only two players were taken – Spencer Adkins (Miami) and Everette Brown (Florida State). Brown was a solid second-round pick, but Adkins barely made the Falcons' roster.
When the two teams play tonight at 8 p.m. (EST), there will again be few stars to watch. Here’s a quick look at some of them.
Florida State:
- Patrick Robinson | CB | 5’11, 194 pounds
I have rated as my 10th best senior cornerback prospect, but a lot of others have him ranked near the top. I’ll be watching him the closest.
- Rodney Hudson | G | 6’2, 285 pounds
He’s an athletic guard whom I rated second among juniors at his position.
- Dekoda Watson | OLB | 6’2, 226 pounds
Somewhat undersized for his position, Watson didn’t crack the top 10 senior outside linebackers. He’s a disruptive player who has had some injury problems.
Miami:
- Darryl Sharpton | MLB | 5’11, 235 pounds
An undersized speedy linebacker, Sharpton is fun to watch but not the best prospect. I have rated eighth among senior middle linebackers.
- Jason Fox | OT | 6’6, 314 pounds
Fox has been an underrated offensive tackle, but he’s not especially spectacular. He’s a workman-like player who will be a solid backup in the NFL.
- Jarvarris James | RB | 5’11, 208 pounds
Somewhat disappointing during his career, James often gets lost in the shuffle of running back the Hurricanes use. He has good size, but the production isn’t there.
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