Senior Bowl: The 5 biggest North and South standouts

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CHARLOTTE, NC – SEPTEMBER 02: Deebo Samuel #1 of the South Carolina Gamecocks runs back the opening kickoff for a touchdown against the North Carolina State Wolfpack during their game at Bank of America Stadium on September 2, 2017 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

SOUTH:

Deebo Samuel (WR, South Carolina)

One had to feel bad for Samuel all afternoon. He was getting open a lot the entire game but his quarterbacks were routinely unable to get him the football. Every time the throw was off target and he didn’t get a chance to showcase his skills. Sometimes that’s the difficult situation a receiver can face at the Senior Bowl. Even so, the tape of him beating the defensive backs is there.

Andre Dillard (OT, Washington State)

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Big offensive tackles are always in demand for the NFL. Especially if they have some athleticism and can pass block. Dillard routinely showed throughout the week and most of the game that he is fully capable of that. He’s a strong kid with good feet and showed little give in his protection against the North pass rushers. He even blew open a number of running lanes for his backs early.

Montez Sweat (EDGE, Texas A&M)

In a game that was largely devoid of standout pass rushers, the spotlight was fully on Sweat who is considered one of the most talented in the country and a likely high 1st round pick. He didn’t generate a sack but he did enough to show people why there’s such a buzz. He got heat on the quarterback multiple times and also played hard against the run, which will only help his cause.

Kingsley Keke (DE, Texas A&M)

Turns out that Sweat wasn’t the only A&M defensive lineman anxious to get noticed in Mobile. Keke had a solid week of practice but still needed to do more if he wanted to truly get attention. He was around the football a lot throughout the game, both as a pass rusher and run defender. It seemed like they were calling his name every time. Coaches love players like that.

Rock Ya-Sin (CB, Temple)

One thing that has become true in recent years? They breed them tough down at Temple, especially on defense. Rock Ya-Sin is the latest to prove this. He was battling it out with the best receivers on the South team all week, showcasing his strong mix of size and man coverage prowess. He carried that hard-nosed style into the game, holding his own most of the day.

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