ORLANDO (UCFKnights.com) – Saturday's Reese's Senior Bowl marked the end of the college football all-star game season. Numerous UCF Knights took part in all-star games, capped by a trio in the Senior Bowl.
Tight end Jordan Akins, linebacker Shaquem Griffin and wide receiver Tre'Quan Smith each shined all week at the Senior Bowl in Mobile, Ala. Throughout the week of practices, Griffin continued to garner attention from coaches, scouts and the media. By the end of the week, Griffin was named the Senior Bowl Practice Player of the Week.
UCF at the 2018 Senior Bowl When game-time rolled around Saturday, Griffin, Smith and Akins all played a part in the South team's 45-16 victory over the North squad. Smith scored the first touchdown of the game, hauling in a 14-yard scoring strike from Western Kentucky's Mike White. Smith finished tied for the most receptions on the day, pulling down five catches for 79 yards and a score. Smith was also lauded as having a solid week of practice.
Akins grabbed two receptions for 31 yards in the contest. Griffin was in the backfield for much of the contest, was involved in at least one sack and had numerous quarterback hurries.
Defensive lineman Tony Guerad was on the losing side of a 23-0 decision playing for the American squad, which fell to the National team in the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl, played at the Rose Bowl. But Guerad made a name for himself in the contest. He recorded three tackles, including 1.5 sacks and 1.5 tackles for-loss. Guerad was also featured by the NFLPA in the days leading up the game.
The East-West Shrine Game, played in St. Petersburg had two Knights on the roster. Unfortunately, neither was able to take part. Offensive lineman Aaron Evans was still recovering from back surgery, while defensive lineman Jamiyus Pittman became ill during the week and was unable to take part in the game.
Tight end Jordan Franks rounded out the Knights taking part in all-star games. He recorded one reception at the Tropical Bowl, played in Daytona.
While Griffin and others remain hopeful to get an invitation to the NFL Scouting Combine in March, many of the Knights' seniors will also begin to focus on preparing for UCF's Pro Day. More information on the Knights' Pro Day will be released in the coming weeks.
