Isaiah Likely has elevated his own platform and that of his university at the same time. He was no stranger during his football career, rising from relative obscurity. Likely now plays for the Baltimore Ravens in the NFL and his professional career has had a very unlikely Start.

Isaiah probably gives the Carolina coast national importance

Likely’s career at Coastal Carolina was notable for his exceptional playmaking skills as a tight end and his role in building the Chanticleers into a nationally significant program. Likely, a Massachusetts native, arrived at Coastal Carolina in 2018 and quickly established himself as one of the best offensive weapons in the Sun Belt.

During his four years with the Chanticleers, Likely became known for his versatility, athleticism and ability to make big plays, especially in the passing game.

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Likely’s impact was evident from the start. As a freshman in 2018, he played in 12 games, catching 12 passes for 106 yards and five touchdowns. His ability to find the end zone early in his career foreshadowed his effectiveness in the red zone, laying the foundation for a stellar college career.

In his sophomore season in 2019, Likely took a big leap forward, recording 32 pass catches for 431 yards and five touchdowns, showing off his ability to stretch the field and embarrass linebackers and safeties. His combination of size (6’4″, 230 pounds) and speed made him a difficult cover for defenses, and his consistency as a pass catcher began to attract attention.

The 2020 season was Likely’s breakout year and coincided with Coastal Carolina’s rise to national prominence.

The Chanticleers had an undefeated regular season and Likely played a major role in their success, catching 30 passes for 601 yards and five touchdowns, averaging an impressive 20 yards per catch.

Likely’s ability to make explosive plays down the field was a key part of Coastal Carolina’s potent offense. He had several standout performances, including a 95-yard touchdown pass against Arkansas State that showcased his ability to turn short passes into big gains. For his performance this season, Likely was named to the First-Team All-Sun Belt.

Likely’s final season in 2021 further cemented his status as one of the best tight ends in the country. He set career highs with 59 receptions for 912 yards and 12 touchdowns and was the top tight end in receiving touchdowns that year.

His combination of size, speed and catch radius made him a popular target for quarterback Grayson McCall, and Likely was often called upon in crucial moments.

One of his most memorable performances came against Arkansas State, where he recorded eight catches for 232 yards and four touchdowns, putting on a brilliant performance and proving his potential as an NFL prospect.

His performances again earned him First-Team All-Sun Belt honors and made him one of the best tight ends in the 2022 NFL Draft.

Likely’s career at Coastal Carolina was not only statistically impressive, but also helped elevate the reputation of the Chanticleers’ football program. His ability to produce big plays, his consistency as a receiver, and his leadership qualities on and off the field made him a critical part of the team’s success during his time there.

It is very likely that he will continue to do this until the end of his NFL career.

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