
The 100th annual East-West Shrine Bowl concluded Thursday night, with six Buffaloes participating in the week of festivities. The herd was well represented in Texas with head coach Deion Sanders in attendance.
The selection process is decided by a committee that prioritizes NFL-level talent from all four levels of college football. The top players are sent an invitation to create an “all-star” game where the best players in the East play the best in the West. The Mississippi River is generally used as the divide although some exceptions are made. The teams are coached by various college and NFL assistants.
Prior to the game, there are multiple practices where players showcase their abilities to NFL scouts and general managers. Teams have an opportunity to speak with players on an individual basis and ask them questions about football. The drills and events also give players the chance to compete one-on-one. Ultimately, it is one more chance for players to make an impression before the combine.
On offense, quarterback Shedeur Sanders and wide receivers La’Johntay Wester, Will Sheppard and Jimmy Horn Jr. accepted invites to attend. Defensive backs Cam’Ron Silmon-Craig and Shilo Sanders were the lone members of the defense who were given the opportunity to compete.
Shilo Sanders and Sheppard had the best day of any Buff. Sanders rebounded to make a strong pass breakup after a poor week of practice. He also impressed scouts with his man-coverage ability and hustle, especially on this third down stop.
On the other side of the ball, Sheppard impressed scouts while lined up on the outside, especially with a back shoulder jump ball he snatched from the sky. The 20-yard reception put him on notice.
After a personal decision and meeting with the top teams, Shedeur Sanders, a potential top-three draft pick, opted to remain inactive during practice and the game. Sanders produced enough game film and achieved a stock high enough to where he did not need to participate. Sanders instead took the time to visit with his potential new homes and coaches.
Like him, Silmon-Craig also did not participate in the game but was in street clothes to support. Wester and Horn were heavy participants in practice and drills throughout the week. Wester’s play set him apart enough to receive an invitation to the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis next month. Although they had opportunities in practice, neither Wester nor Horn received game action.
Next up for the NFL-hopeful Buffs is the combine. While Wester already has an invite, the others are looking for another opportunity to showcase their talents on the big stage. After that, CU will host a pro day on campus (this date has not been announced, but took place on March 19 last year), which will be the final chance for these Buffs to boost their stock for the draft in April.
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