South Carolina star accepts invitation to 100th Shrine Bowl

South Carolina running back Rocket Sanders has accepted an invitation to play in the 100th East-West Shrine Bowl. The Shrine Bowl announced the news on social media.

The East-West Shrine Bowl gives seniors the opportunity to perform in an all-star showcase environment. Practices, combines, and other professional evaluations will help players like Sanders while they prepare for the NFL Draft.

Sanders has earned NFL Draft projections following his strong senior season. Now, at the East-West Shrine Bowl, he will have the opportunity to perform in front of professional scouts, coaches, and decision-makers. Dallas’ AT&T Stadium will host the January 30th exhibition.

He joins fellow Gamecock NFL Draft-hopeful Kai Kroeger as South Carolina alums participating in the Shrine Bowl. Several other USC seniors with professional aspirations will play in other all-star showcases.

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In just one year with the Gamecocks, Sanders left a mark. He brought stability and big-play ability to a running game that was the worst in school history the previous season. His rushing totals were the highest in garnet and black since Kevin Harris’ SEC-leading 2020 campaign.

An All-SEC performer this fall, Sanders posted just under 1200 yards of offense and 13 touchdowns despite missing the Citrus Bowl, most of the Akron contest, and parts of the Ole Miss game. He also made one of the best run-after-catch plays in Gamecock history in the team’s last-minute win over the Missouri Tigers in the Mayor’s Cup.

Sanders’ NFL Draft future is difficult to read because of the position he plays. Outside of the top few running backs, the NFL often doesn’t use high draft picks on ball carriers. Because of that, Sanders’ draft grades have been all over the place. A strong showing at the East-West Shrine Bowl would help solidify his place for next April.