Coleman vs. Restrepo: The Tale of Two Receivers’ College Careers

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — The debate among college football fans continues over the performance of wide receivers Keon Coleman and Xavier Restrepo during their collegiate careers. This discussion gained traction after Coleman, a former Florida State Seminoles player, showed versatility and skill on the field while Restrepo, representing the Miami Hurricanes, faced scrutiny for his performance against tougher opponents.

During his time at Florida State, Coleman stood out as a key contributor despite battling injuries. In his matchup against Miami, he recorded four receptions for a touchdown, along with impressive special teams efforts, highlighted by three punt returns for 62 yards. In contrast, Restrepo struggled in critical games against formidable defenses, finishing without a catch against Florida State in the 2023 season.

Restrepo’s overall statistics present a mixed picture. In 2022, he recorded a total of 69 receptions for 1,127 yards and 11 touchdowns, benefiting substantially from matchups against weaker opponents. His numbers showcased 60 receptions for 979 yards and 10 touchdowns against unranked teams. He also added 24 receptions, 339 yards, and two touchdowns against FBS teams with losing records, raising questions about his effectiveness against top-tier competition.

Adding to the comparison, Restrepo’s performance metrics indicate a less favorable outcome in terms of speed. At Miami’s Pro Day, he clocked in at a 4.7-4.8 seconds for the 40-yard dash at 5 feet 10 inches and 200 pounds. In contrast, Coleman demonstrated superior athleticism, running an official 4.61-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine, weighing in at 6 feet 3 inches and 213 pounds. This physical advantage may have played a role in their respective performances on bigger stages.

Coleman’s debut at Florida State is remembered for his breakout performance against then No. 5 LSU and his subsequent game at Clemson, where he caught five receptions for 86 yards and two touchdowns. His ability to rise to the occasion helped him secure a spot as a second-round draft pick for the Buffalo Bills in the 2024 NFL Draft.

As the debate continues, college football fans await Restrepo’s next move as he prepares for life as an undrafted free agent. The contrasting paths of these two receivers serve as a reminder of the varied experiences in college football and the importance of performance against the best competition.