Bowls are here. This time of year is wonderful. Spending time with family, football on television almost every day. This is also our last opportunity to see college players on the field before the long offseason begins. Even better, these bowls give you an opportunity to watch small school prospects you may not be able to mid-season due to their games not being televised. These previews will give you an idea of which devy players and rookie prospects are playing during bowl season.
Houston vs San Diego State
Saturday, December 17th 3:30 PM
SDSU running back Donnel Pumphrey is second in the nation with 2018 rushing yards and is only 108 rushing yards short of the FBS career rushing record. Pumphrey does not have the frame for an NFL lead back at 5’9″ 165lbs, but his production makes him a potential flyer later in rookie drafts as a change of pace back. While Houston is not known for defense, they have been strong against the run allowing only 97 yards per game. This includes a game against Oklahoma where Joe Mixon and Samaje Perine were each held under 40 yards.
Houston’s Greg Ward Jr. is an explosive athlete at the quarterback position. While I do not see him as an NFL quarterback, I am interested in him as a potential position convert at the next level. Over his career, Ward Jr. has rushed for over 3,000 yards if you remove the lost yardage from sacks. Ward Jr. is a deep flyer, but worth noting if drafted or signed as a non-quarterback.
Appalachian State vs Toledo
Saturday, December 17th 5:30 PM
Toledo senior running back Kareem Hunt had 1st round rookie pick hype last year. Due to a quiet rushing season, he has slid down draft boards. Hunt has great size at 6’1″ 225lbs. He has the potential to shoot back up draft boards with a strong combine. While the rushing stats have not impressed, Hunt has improved in the receiving game this season with a career-high 39 receptions. You may be able to get him in the third round of rookie drafts next year.
