Florida Gators star Dameon Pierce gives perfect answer on decision to play in bowl game

As Florida running back Dameon Pierce prepares for the Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl, he’s looking towards a future in the NFL. With the Gators in flux and skipping bowl games more acceptable than ever, nobody would blame Pierce if he decided not to play on Thursday.

However, that thought has never crossed Pierce’s mind. The Gators running back gave the perfect answer when asked about his decision to play in the team’s bowl game.

“Why? Because I’m a Gator, bro,” Pierce responded, via Matt Baker of the Tampa Bay Times.

Evidently, it’s a point of pride for Pierce. The former five-star recruit loves the Gators through and through. Even with the chaos the program is going through due to the firing of Dan Mullen, Pierce wants to be a guiding light as his time with Florida winds down.

In his career at Florida, Pierce has continually been one of the most important players to make his home in The Swamp. The running back has carried the football 316 times for the Gators — amassing 1,749 yards and 22 touchdowns for rushing for the program.

Additionally, Pierce has become a nice weapon in the passing game, as well. In his career, the Gators offensive star has reeled in 44 passes — accumulating 423 yards and five touchdowns in the process.

As you can see, Dameon Pierce has an immense amount of love for Florida. In what could be his final game with the Gators, he wouldn’t miss it for the world.

As multiple stars skip bowl games, Dameon Pierce wants to play

Multiple stars of the college football world are skipping bowls games this season. However, Dameon Pierce won’t be joining the list. Still, the amount of talent deciding to bypass on final opportunity to put on their school’s uniform is surprsing.

Perhaps the biggest name is Oregon star pass rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux. With potential to be the No. 1 selection in the 2022 NFL Draft, Thibodeaux isn’t going to risk any potential injuries.

Also, Notre Dame stars like safety Kyle Hamilton and running back Kyren Williams won’t be on the field to attempt to give Marcus Freeman a jolt to start his head coaching career. Both players are opting to prepare for the NFL Draft instead of playing in the Playstation Fiesta Bowl.

Finally, a Heisman finalists has played their final game with their school — Kenny Pickett won’t be playing in his final shot for Pittsburgh. After raising his draft stock, the Panthers quarterback isn’t risking anything.

As you can see, the decision by Dameon Pierce is far from the norm. Florida – and all of the college football world – should appreciate the admirable choice the Gators star is making.