2021 Senior Bowl: 5 Storylines and notable performances from the game
3. Louisville WR Dez Fitzpatrick Saves His Best For Last
There were several great performances from receivers all week long in the Senior Bowl practices. One player that was significant until the 2021 Senior Bowl game was former Louisville Cardinals wide receiver Dez Fitzpatrick.
He performed significantly well in the Senior Bowl practices but it was in the game where he stood out the most. Fitzpatrick played his best performance in the game as he led the entire game in the receiving game. He finished the game with six receptions for 90 yards on 11 targets for an average of 15 yards per reception.
Fitzpatrick only had one drop in the game for the National Squad as he was one of the most reliable and consistent playmakers. No other receiver for the National Squad had more than two receptions or more than 28 yards.
He was able to have a fantastic performance by displaying his consistent ability to separate himself from the opposing defensive back. He is also a highly reliable route runner, displayed reliability in his catches, and exposed the opposing defensive backs with a change of direction and speed. Fitzpatrick was named Offensive Player of the Game.
2. North Carolina RB Michael Carter Gets Great Look in Limited Reps
One of the top participants of the week from the first practice to the game was North Carolina Tar Heels running back Michael Carter. From the first practice, Carter made his presence known by displaying his on-the-field dominance by speed, agility, and elusive playmaking abilities.
In the 2021 Senior Bowl game, Carter displayed more than what he was called for in the limited number of reps usually given to an offensive player.
Carter rushed for 60 yards and a touchdown on eight carries for an average of 7.5 yards per carry. He also caught two receptions for 15 yards. His lone touchdown came from a 12-yard run where he pressed hard in a second effort push along with the offensive line.
While he was not given too many reps in the game due to the importance of the quarterbacks and their passing game, Carter was still able to make a huge impact on the offense. Carter was already a top-five running back prospect for the 2021 NFL Draft, this game might’ve pushed him to become a potential second-round draft pick.