D'Eriq King going down with a knee injury is just another example of why top NFL prospects are opting out of bowl games. But should they?
It's a place I've found myself divided on for the past couple years. I'm really trying to NOT be the old guy here. I understand the game has changed. I understand bowl games mean much much less than they used to. I recognize these kids need to protect their money. I get all of that.
But there is just something in me that still wants to see the top NCAA players, play in bowl games. Not just the top bowl games. But all bowl games. Seriously... if you're a top NFL prospect, should you ever play in these games? Should Trevor Lawrence play in the college football playoff? While it's meaningful to the NCAA... to us as fans... but for his future, it's nothing but a risk.
Yesterday on the air, I said out loud, "I wish D'Eriq King was NOT playing in this game!" Why did I say this? Because after King just announced he was coming back to Miami for another season, I didn't want to see anything jeopardize his play next season. The Canes could have a decent chance at the college football playoff next year, and to do so they would need King at top level all year, and off season.
Yet here we are. With King now injured, and fans waiting to see how bad the damage is.
And still, the fan in me wishes he was on the field last night to give the team a better chance at taking a win in the CheezIt Bowl.
Ugh!