Hasn't it evolved into more of a team leader award? The truth is that none of us really know who the biggest locker room leaders are. And we usually don't have that many seniors around to award it to...though I wish that would change.
anyone who actually knew what they were watching would remember Taylor. he was a safety. when he went down in 2010, the defense took a serious hit. (just under 150 pass ypg with him back there, just over 200 after his injury). wore 18 in 2011 and was the glue that held that defense together. he wasn't flashy and didn't get the headlines/glory, but was probably the most important piece of that defense that year. the main reason we had as many playmakers on that team is because Taylor was always exactly where he was supposed to be when he was supposed to be there. That allowed everyone else in the secondary to gamble and ball hawk. everyone on the defense looked to him for his leadership and he was the one barking out the calls back there. THAT is what the #18 should be. The whole team is better when he's on the field, and takes a noticeable step back when he's not. Since Mauk, he fits that description better than anyone else who has worn it.
Bite me it is an opinion. I feel he has not been our best #18 by far. He has not shown leadership to me. You are free to disagree but so am I.
I agree, he was very similar to Jack Hunt in 2003. Not the greatest individual talent but a key team piece.
True. I don't think we should limit it to Seniors anyway. Give it to the most deserving person regardless of their classification. Take Fournette, he's very much a leader as a soph. I get the impression he's already like the team dad. Heck, I'm not sure Miles doesn't lean on him.
I like 7 on Fournette. I think 18 next year should go to Beckwith if he stays. Adams if Beckwith leaves, but I'd be good with Quinn if he sticks around. I wouldn't if I were him, he has been shat on.
