East West Shrine Game 2012: Offensive Playmakers Who Will Shine
The East-West Shrine Game is one of the most important days in the life of a mid- or low-level college football player. We have seen players improve their draft stock dramatically with one great performance in this game.
This year's installment features a number of interesting players—particularly on the offensive side of the ball—who are ready to explode in front of scouts and draft gurus.
Finding those diamonds in the rough is what makes the NFL Draft so great, and why we pay attention to these postseason showcase games.
With that in mind, here are a few offensive studs who will put on a show that will have everyone talking.
B.J. Cunningham, WR, Michigan State
Despite playing at one of the premier programs in the Big Ten, Cunningham is still fighting to get some attention. He had a great season, with 79 receptions for 1306 yards and 12 touchdowns.
He doesn't have elite talent, though.
His speed leaves a lot to be desired, but he does have a big body that could make him a valuable possession receiver at the next level.
His off-field issues will likely lead some teams to question his character, but he has been a good citizen since being involved in a fight in 2009.
He is probably a fifth-round pick right now, but one good performance in this game could easily push him into Round 4.
B.J. Coleman, QB, Tennessee-Chattanooga
One of the more talked-about quarterback prospects in this game, Coleman has good physical attributes. He is listed at 6'3" and 234 pounds, with a good arm and the ability to put some zip on the ball.
His accuracy is a problem, however. He doesn't like to lead receivers to the ball, instead throwing it as hard as he can regardless of what the situation calls for.
He is going to need a lot of work, but he has some upside.
He is on the outside of the draft looking in right now, but if he shows enough touch on his passes and improved accuracy this week, he could get into Round 7.
Bobby Rainey, RB, Western Kentucky
This year's draft is stocked with quality running backs. Everyone knows about Trent Richardson, Lamar Miller and David Wilson, but they will be taken in the first two rounds.
Rainey, on the other hand, is a borderline seventh-round pick. He does not have a good NFL body at just 5'7" and 208 pounds, but he was a productive runner in college with over 1600 yards in each of the last two years and 34 career rushing touchdowns.
He is sneaky fast, meaning that he won't run by anyone, but he can catch you off guard with how quick he gets to the line, and he is strong enough to break tackles.
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