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2017 NFL Draft Prospects to Watch: Dec. 26-29 Bowls

By Shawn Spencer

Sep 5, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Texas A&M Aggies defensive lineman Myles Garrett (15) celebrates his sack against Arizona State Sun Devils quarterback Mike Bercovici (2) (not pictured)in the first quarter at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 5, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Texas A&M Aggies defensive lineman Myles Garrett (15) celebrates his sack against Arizona State Sun Devils quarterback Mike Bercovici (2) (not pictured)in the first quarter at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports /
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2017 NFL Draft Zach Cunningham
Nov 19, 2016; Nashville, TN, USA; Vanderbilt Commodores inside linebacker Zach Cunningham (41) is congratulated by teammates after a fumble recovery during the second half against the Mississippi Rebels at Vanderbilt Stadium. Vanderbilt won 38-17. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports /

Independence Bowl: Matthew Dayes (RB – NC State) vs. Zach Cunningham (ILB – Vanderbilt)

There are a couple of intriguing one-on-one matchups in this game. Vanderbilt left tackle Will Holden against North Carolina State defensive end Bradley Chubb is certainly one of them. However, the biggest matchup is the one pitting Wolfpack running back Matthew Dayes against the Commodores first-team All-American inside linebacker Zach Cunningham.

Cunningham is a potential first-round pick in the 2017 NFL Draft and has been as productive as any inside linebacker in the country this season. He led Vanderbilt this season in several statistical categories, including tackles (119), tackles for a loss (16.5), forced fumbles (two), fumble recoveries (four) and blocked kicks (one).

Despite the extra attention he’s received from opposing offenses, Cunningham has still been able to shoot gaps and beat the ball carrier to the point of attack. That won’t be easy in this contest going up against the quick and agile Matthew Dayes.

After battling a foot injury for much of last season, Dayes has been at full strength this year and is the most dynamic playmaker for the Wolfpack. He’s rushed for over 1,000 yards this season and has over 250 as a receiver. His versatility will challenge Cunningham and the Commodores, however Vanderbilt has answered multiple challenges already this season. Shutting down Dayes should solidify a spot in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft for Cunningham. Dayes on the other hand, is a projected mid-round pick.

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