This is Hrilina Ramrakhiana at the Sideline Pass and GNOSF Junior Journalism Program at the R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl Media Day at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans.
For most footballers playing their last year, a bowl game is viewed as “the end of the road.” They will suit up, walk on to the field, and play with their teammates one last time. Their four-year journey is slowly, but quickly coming to a conclusion. But for Ragin’ Cajun’s running back, Elijah McGuire, the R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl is just the beginning.
“I left home at 18 years old, now I’m 22 years old,” said McGuire when he sat down to chat about playing his last game for the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. “Lafayette made me a man.” McGuire had an outstanding football career in college. In his last year alone, McGuire rushed 1069 yards, finishing as the top rusher. The fan favorite describes his last game for his school as “everything.”
McGuire will receive his diploma after only three and a half years at his beloved university. Not only is he graduating early, but he is the first in his family to earn a college diploma. The star athlete claimed his “hard work and dedication” helped him manage school, playing both basketball and football, and even graduating early.
McGuire’s hard work impacted not only himself, but also those around him. He is an inspiration to his friends, family, teammates, and his coach. “[McGuire’s] would be some big shoes to fill,” expressed Ragin’ Cajun’s Head Coach Mark Hudspeth.
After graduation, McGuire has a bright future, as his phenomenal athletic ability has made him a top NFL prospect. But first, he will play his last game as a Ragin’ Cajun in the New Orleans Bowl on December 17th at 8:00 P.M.