This year's Senior Bowl was as talent-rich as any in recent memory.
In general, this year's event was mainly defined by the linemen who garnered national attention during practice week, further emphasizing the importance of the big men in the trenches.
In this year's game, we saw many standouts from practice week rise to the occasion, including others who quietly made a name for themselves. From the players who participated, here are the four we believe stood out above the rest.
Running back Evan Hull - Team National
The quiet workhorse came into this year's game as one of the top performers during practice week and finished as arguably the most productive offensive player on both sides. On his snap, he gained 25 yards and established himself as a viable offensive option from that point forward. He finished the game leading all rushers with 74 rushing yards while averaging 7.4 yards per carry. Next to Tyjae Spears, he was the most valuable player at his position in this year's event and likely gained the attention of all NFL teams.
Offensive lineman Cody Mauch - Team National
The toothless wonder was without question the most versatile player in this year's game, as he played at three different positions along the offensive line: left guard, center, and right tackle. The aggression and physicality that he displayed during practice week materialized on gameday and played a major role in Team National gaining 182 yards on the ground. Perhaps no lineman raised their draft stock more at this year's event than Mauch. One should expect him to become a household name during this offseason.
Quarterback Jake Haener - Team National
This year's Senior Bowl MVP had a bit of a rocky start, but eventually settled down and made the plays that mattered the most. Perhaps his best attribute was his poise in the pocket even under pressure; Haener displayed veteran-like composure in those instances and made completions downfield. He finished the game with 139 passing yards on 12 completions and a touchdown. With the upcoming NFL Scouting Combine ahead, Haener can take further steps to capitalize on his accomplishment at this year's event.
Linebacker Aubrey Miller Jr. (Team American)
Aubrey's presence was felt right from the opening play after he laid a tremendous hit on Hall following his big gain. From that point, he was the leader of the American team's defense and was involved in almost every defensive stop in the first half. From the first practice at this year's Senior Bowl, Aubrey made a name for himself as a tenacious, tough, downhill tackler with tremendous speed and physicality. Above all things, he and Isaiah Land showed that HBCU schools have the type of talent that can help elevate NFL teams if given the opportunity.
Notable mentions: QB Malik Cunningham (Team National), RB Eric Gray (Team American), WR Michael Wilson (Team National), LB Isaiah Land (Team American), and DL Karl Brooks (Team National)