Michigan State and Pittsburgh were among college football’s greatest surprises this year. MSU was picked by many to finish last in the Big Ten East. Kenneth Walker III and Kenny Pickett led their teams with stellar seasons. Both just announced they are abandoning their team and will sit out the Peach Bowl.
Both have made a mockery that football is a team sport. As good as Pickett was, a big part of his success can be attributable to the stellar Jordan Addison fetching his passes. Walker needed his O Line.
The Odyssey understands that the risk of injury is everpresent and that there are few contracts for most NFL players. We do understand that Jake Butt’s injury in the Orange Bowl 5 years ago cost him money. But when players say they want to sit out to “help prepare for the draft”, the lack of transparency is irritating. When Pickett says “Pitt forever”, laugh out loud. You can’t have it both ways, Kenny.
How will Pickett and Walker be “preparing for the draft” when Pitt plays MSU in the suddenly debased Peach Bowl? Likely, on their couches, perhaps with a cold one in hand.