You have to go back nine years to find the last time one of these two schools won a game in post-season play. Luckily, that drought will end for one of these teams as they line up against each other in this year’s Sun Bowl.
By: Will Paruta
Miami has had a tumultuous season, including the 58-0 stomping they took from Clemson in a game that would end up costing head coach Al Golden his job. On the other hand, Washington State is seemingly trending upwards, with their largest win total in the last 12 years. Washington State’s resurgence comes as no surprise, with a number of NFL hopefuls anchoring the team. Despite Miami’s relative youth, there are still some upperclassmen that bear watching. Take a look below to see who might have an impact on the outcome of this one!
Washington State
Joe Dahl, OT, #56
At 6’5”, 310 pounds, this senior offensive tackle looks the part. He is an excellent knee bender that possesses many athletic traits. His explosiveness off the snap, ability to control defenders with his hands, and good kick step help him to be rock solid in pass protection. There are questions about how he’ll transition to the pro game as he rarely started in a 3-point stance at Washington State. His run blocking is also somewhat of an unknown after playing in Mike Leach’s offense. Dahl has very good potential and will be a firm day two selection.
Dom Williams, WR, #80
With another productive year in the books, Williams completed the regular season second on WSU’s career list for receiving yards with 2,846, and second as well in touchdown receptions with 30. Williams uses his long arms, leaping ability, and agility to go get the ball when it’s in the air. Despite his production, his route running needs to be crisper. From time to time Williams drops a ball he shouldn’t drop. He could be a late day three guy.
Darryl Paulo, DE, #99
The 2nd Team All-PAC-12 defensive lineman put together a respectable senior season at WSU. After waiting his turn behind a talented WSU defensive line, Paulo reformed his technique and transformed himself into a formidable player. Initially, discipline on the field was an issue for Paulo as he struggled with the speed of the game at the division one level. Once he learned to maintain his gap responsibility, Paulo earned the coaches’ trust. Paulo could be a factor against Miami if he continues his improving play.
Jeremiah Allison, OLB, #8
Allison built on a strong junior season with an even better senior year. As one of the PAC-12’s leading tacklers the past two seasons, Allison has proven to have a nose for the football. Allison is a high motor and high character guy. He’s received awards for his charitable contributions and academic achievements. This is the kind of player you want on your team. He may crack a roster following the draft.
Miami
Deon Bush, FS, #2
Bush is a proven commodity on the back end of the Miami secondary. His athleticism, willingness to tackle, and ball skills make him the ideal free safety. Bush does it all for the Miami defense. Although he is susceptible in man coverage and his consistency in the run game could use work, Bush lacks many glaring weaknesses. Bush will almost certainly be a high-end day two draft pick.
Raphael Kirby, ILB, #56
Following in the footsteps of former Miami inside linebacker Denzel Perryman, Kirby is a force to be reckoned with. He is a fearless tackler that uses sound technique to bring down ball carriers. He does not shy away from the big hit. Unfortunately for Kirby, his senior season was cut short by a devastating knee injury. At the time of his injury, Kirby was Miami’s leading tackler. Kirby, a team captain, is a strong leader both on and off the field. Should Kirby recover in full, he will certainly get an opportunity to show NFL teams his potential.
Rashawn Scott, WR, #11
Scott used his redshirt senior season to burst onto the scene. Scott led his Miami squad in both receptions and touchdowns. Despite the success, NFL teams will be wary of Scott due to his injury filled history. When he is on the field, Scott plays will a belly full of fire. He is a physical wide receiver that plays with swagger. Scott has accepted his invite to the Shrine Bowl and will look to prove that this past season was only a sign of things to come.
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