A little late in the posting, my apologies, but in this “Hawaii Bowl”, which always seems a bit odd when it doesn’t feature Hawaii, is actually equip with some intriguing non-BCS talent and should be a match-up of two outstanding offenses and talented defensive playmakers.
The C-USA’s best senior QB prospect here, one of the preimer senior WRs no one is talking about, an inside linebacker built like Patrick Willis, and a handful of potential starters or role players in this one, it should lead to an exciting Hawaii Bowl this year.
1. Rishard Matthews, WR, Nevada
In such a talented receiver corps in this senior class for the NFL Draft, Rishard Matthews might be the talent not nearly enough people are talking about. He thrived last year with Colin Kaepernick, and this year he’s continued to be impressive despite having a new quarterback. He grabs the ball so well out of the air, has the power to break tackles after the catch, and can cut and flip his hips well enough to consistently make plays after the catch. Reminds me of a young Terrell Owens.
2. James Michael-Johnson, ILB, Nevada
Going by shear strength, size, and overall build, Michael-Johnson looks the part of an NFL inside linebacker. He muscles off blocks very well, can deliver a great hit, and is an outstanding presence in the middle. He hasn’t shown me great range in blitzing or coverage, and doesn’t seem to make as many plays as he could, all three of which should be tested in this one.
3. Austen Davis, QB, Southern Miss
While Case Keenum got all the love in the C-USA, when it comes to NFL projections, Austen Davis is the better prospect, almost without question in my eyes. He’s more accurate past 5 yards, has shown development in his play reading, has a better arm, and can drive the ball down the field while still using touch. Not a lock to be drafted yet, his win over Houston and a potential win over Nevada could put him very much on the NFL radar.
4. Lamar Holmes, OT, Southern Miss
A fairly athletic tackle who ideally would be moved to right tackle or guard at the NFL level, he’s shown very good hand ability and blitz recognition all year long against some solid C-USA pass rushers. Still has some development to do, but he has a great shot at getting drafted and could be a starter down the road.
5. Corderro Law, DE, Southern Miss
Classic high motor, maybe slightly undersized speed rusher, Law has great bend and flexibility to set the edge as well as slip underneath on the inside. He’s a creative and quick-reading rusher, but his lack of great athletic ability may limit how high he goes in the draft, but he should be able to be a rotational guy at some point in the NFL.
Others to Watch
6. Isaiah Frey, CB, Nevada
7. Brett Roy, DE, Nevada
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