CINCINNATI — Tony Pike and Mardy Gilyard got another chance to impress NFL scouts, this time on their own turf. They think they
pulled it off together.

The quarterback and receiver who led Cincinnati to back-to-back Big East titles were the main feature at the university’s pro day on Wednesday. Twenty-six teams were represented, with 49ers coach Mike Singletary in the crowd.

The highlight was Pike throwing various routes to Gilyard, reprising the combination that was one of the Big East’s best. They’re still learning NFL pass routes, which can be much different from the ones they used in college. Both talked to scouts afterward to get their appraisals.

Wearing black shorts and a white shirt on a mild day, Pike made all types of throws from midfield, occasionally missing players filling in as receivers. He showed he was still in sync with Gilyard, repeatedly hitting him in stride. Pike is making some adjustments to satisfy NFL teams, who wanted to see better spirals after his combine workout.

Gilyard is hoping to go in the first or second round. Several Bengals coaches attended the workout, though the team hasn’t given him any indication that it’s particularly interested. The Bengals could use a slot receiver and kick returner, and Gilyard would love to stay in town.

– The Associated Press

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