The college football season may have drawn to a close when Alabama beat Texas a few weeks ago, but for a select group of the nation’s seniors, there’s still plenty to play for. This week, there’s the East-West Shrine Bowl a college football past time that dates back to 1925, and draws senior stars from colleges all across the country.
One Last Gasp For College Football: East-West Shrine Bowl Showcases Top Seniors
But more than just an exhibition, this is a crucial opportunity for many of these players to showcase themselves for NFL scouts and coaches. This year, among other NFL luminaries, Romeo Crennell and Marty Schottenheimer are coaching the game, which is currently underway at ESPN. Who’s playing? Sports Illustrated highlights some of this year’s top prospects:
Pat Paschall/RB/North Dakota State: Paschall was the top small-school prospect on the field during the week and one of the best ball carriers. He’s a smooth back with a gliding style, but also displays plenty of toughness when running inside. More than anything else Paschall proved all week he belonged on the field with players from bigger schools.
Freddie Barnes/WR/Bowling Green: Barnes caught everything thrown his way each day at practice. He impressed scouts with the ability to consistently separate from defensive backs and find the openings in the coverage. Barnes proved to scouts that his record-breaking numbers in college had more to do with his skills rather than the offensive system at Bowling Green.
Dennis Pitta/TE/BYU: Pitta showed why he’s considered one of the best pass catching tight ends in April’s draft. He displayed reliable hands while making some acrobatic receptions. Pitta is not known for his blocking yet did better than expected when asked to display his skill.
John Estes/C/Hawaii: Estes could well be the big winner of Shrine week. He played with terrific fundamentals and strength from the first day of practice. Estes had no problem handling bigger opponents on the line and was flawless blocking on the move. Estes, who has not yet received an invitation to February’s combine, elevated his draft stock at least one round.
Brandon Carter/G/Texas Tech: Carter was a monster from day one and manhandled anyone he went up against. His power was obvious, but Carter also blocked with good fundamentals, which surprised some. He worked hard and was nasty from start to finish.
For some, a game like this exposes them to NFL scouts and a long career in the pros. For others--like Kansas’ undersized, overachieving Todd Reesing--it’s a curtain call. One last time in the spotlight before their distinguished college careers reach a conclusion. In either case, it makes for some pretty good entertainment, so check it out.
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