2021 Senior Bowl: 5 Storylines and notable performances from the game
5. Minnesota CB Benjamin St-Juste Has Lockdown Performance
There were many talented wide receivers in the 2021 Senior Bowl which put more pressure on both teams’ defensive backs. Minnesota Golden Gophers cornerback Benjamin St-Juste had a dominant day three practice performance on Thursday. Among all the defensive backs in the 2021 Senior Bowl game, St-Juste had one of the most consistent performances in overall coverages.
His ability to stay efficient in man coverage was superior to some of the other defensive backs on either roster. Other than a pass interference penalty at the beginning of the game, St-Juste played a complete game for National Squad defense. St-Juste accounted for two pass breakups (both in the first quarter) and a solo tackle.
After the first quarter, the quarterback on the other side did not often target the receiver that St-Juste was assigned. He was a defensive back who was able to see his NFL draft stock increase throughout the week and now a solid performance in the main game only helps his case further.
4. South Alabama LB Riley Cole Has a Great Homecoming Game
This week is highly significant for all participants of the 2021 Senior Bowl week but it was even more special for one player. For the last 71 Senior Bowls, the event has been in Mobile, Alabama. This year’s Senior Bowl was moved to Hancock Whitney Stadium, the home of the South Alabama Jaguars, after its construction.
Former South Alabama Jaguar in linebacker Riley Cole had a fantastic performance in the stadium where he played in his last season of college football. Cole, usually an outside linebacker, was consistently lined up at the middle linebacker position throughout the entire week.
By halftime, Cole led both defenses in total tackles accounted for with four total tackles. Cole was a consistent defensive playmaker for the National Squad. Cole was able to chase to the ball-carrier in the backfield and the second of the defense.
Cole finished the game with six total tackles (second-on-team on American defense), one tackle for loss, and one pass breakup. Cole needed a fantastic performance in the game to push himself into a legitimate consideration of being a potential early day three prospect in the 2021 NFL Draft.