WATCH: Ex-Tulane QB Michael Pratt once battled it out with Heisman winner Caleb Williams during Cotton Bowl showdown
In the 2023 Cotton Bowl, Tulane quarterback Michael Pratt faced off against Heisman Trophy winner Caleb Williams of USC, showcasing a riveting clash between contrasting styles. Despite Williams' impressive performance, Pratt and the Tulane Green Wave emerged victorious with a 46-45 upset over the Trojans.
Pratt attempted just 17 passes compared to Williams' 52, but Tulane's dominant rushing attack led by running back Tyjae Spears proved decisive. Tulane's victory was fueled by their ground game, amassing 305 rushing yards and nearly doubling USC's time of possession.
Michael Pratt was the leader Tulane relied on. His calm control helped their offense score on 7 of 11 drives. That includes the last-second, winning field goal. Caleb Williams had amazing numbers - 5 touchdowns, 462 passing yards! But Pratt made crucial plays to upset the favored Trojans.
Statistically, he was overshadowed. However, Pratt proved that he can make big plays in big moments. His performance against Caleb Williams and USC showed his skill in high-pressure games. This set the stage for Pratt's journey to the NFL.
Green Bay Packers select Tulane QB Michael Pratt in the 2024 NFL draft
The Green Bay Packers nabbed QB Michael Pratt from Tulane in the 2024 NFL Draft with pick 245 in round seven. At 6-2 and 217 lbs, Pratt had a solid four-year college career starting 44 games.
He completed 60.6% of passes, firing 90 TDs compared to just 26 INTs. Michael Pratt consistently tallied 20+ TD tosses yearly while minimizing turnovers under 10 picks annually. Consistency and leadership defined his time calling signals for the Green Wave.
Despite projections by experts like ESPN's Field Yates placing Michael Pratt as high as the 95th pick, he ultimately found his NFL home with the Packers. Pratt's journey to Green Bay offers him the opportunity to learn from established quarterbacks in the room, including starter Jordan Love.
Reflecting on his collegiate accomplishments, Pratt's standout season in 2022 included leading Tulane to an AAC championship, a victory over USC in the Cotton Bowl, and an impressive 23-5 record over the past two seasons.
A Relative Athletic Score of 8.28/10.0 backs up his physical talents. In 2023, Michael Pratt starred with 2,406 passing yards, 22 TDs and only 5 interceptions as the AAC Offensive Player of the Year.
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