View Full Version : Who are the 'gamers' we should add to this team?
OKAY, easy example here. Blue collar footballers that you can count on game in, game out that are going to produce for their ballclub. These aren't guys who only produced in their senior year. These are guys that have been the heart and soul for thier team for two or three seasons. They will lead their team to victories. They are superior regardless of size or possible speed. They can be potential first rounds, 2nd rounders, who ever. These players should be considered good bets to bring that same leadership and work ethic to the NFL with them.
Perfect example is Denver's own Elvis Dumervil. D-Will was also a great example of that a couple of seasons ago.
Feel free to post players.
I'll start:
1. Glen Dorsey - This is an easy one but the guy is a champion and has produced over two years for the LSU Tigers. He is easily he Tigers best player on the front line and also their emotional and physical leader. Despite a dinged up knee, has managed to stay on the field and will the Tigers back into the national title hunt. He has an excellent chance to be a great NFL player.
2. Chris Long - Another blue-collar worker. HE also is having a dramatic impact on his team's fortunes putting UVA in a chance to win their conference. A physical tone-setter who plays with the fire and tenacity that his father did. He is an experienced player in the 3-4 defense but I think he'll be successful in whatever defense he plays in. He is very similar in stature and game to Aaron Kampman of the packers.
Dan Connor - I thought Paul Posluzsny was a natural at MLB for Penn State last season. He has been a very solid pick for Buffalo this past draft in April and has a solid start to his career. Connor played OLB last season with Paul i the middle and still had a very large impact on the Lions season. With an opening in the middle, the coaching staff thought ehough of Connor to move him over to MLB without missing a beat. He has been everything they thought he would be, dominating this season and replacing Posluzsny as the all-time leading tackler at LB U.
Quinton Groves - Say what you want abut Groves, the man is tough. He decided to forgo the draft his junior year to stay and guard his post at Auburn. The tigers in turn have turned a tough season in which they lost to South Florida at home to a gritty 2007 season in which they've had a lot of success. Groves hasn't been the dominant force he was in 2006 on the statistics sheet. Its probably because he's gritting out evevery movement on the field with three dislocated toes on his right foot. Despite that Groves is till producing and occationally he showcases his ability to get to the passer with his trademarked speed. I think he would be an excellent OLB prospect in the 3-4 but I think he'l make the transition to whatever defens he plays and he'll find a way to make an impact. I really like Groves... he's an easy player to root for.
DJ Hall - Say what you want about this being a WR class that lacks studs as in years past. DJ Hall is a classic example of that. He has solid size and speed but what you might miss behind the scenes is that through two different offense's, he is on pace to post his 2nd straight 1000 yd season. He has also posted some of his best stats against the SEC's best defenses. He also is a four year starter at Alabama.
Requiem
11-14-2007, 04:37 PM
Even though I'm pleased with the progression of Williams at MIKE, at the top of my list for a "gamer/player" is Vanderbilt's Jonathan Goff.
The guy plays with a fire in his belly, he's a team leader and he does all the right things. He'll make an excellent MIKE in the NFL, or perhaps even a SLB. He's not going to blow you away with a 4.45-4.5 forty from a linebacker, but he's going to be a guy who will succeed in the NFL because he plays with his heart on his sleeve and loves the game. He knocks people around. I personally think he's the best MIKE prospect in this draft that's a senior. Stout against the run, and he has improved as a blitzer and is doing much better in coverage. He will be a very, very good linebacker in the NFL. I think he'll go somewhere in the second-round, but could squeak up into late-round one if he does well at Mobile and Indianapolis to a team needing a backer.
I watched the Toledo/Ball State game replay last night on ESPN and came away very impressed with Senior tackle John Greco. He has nice size at 6'4 - 320 and is very, very good in pass protection. I did not see him get beat once and he helped Toledo run for over 200 yards on Ball State. He's a guy who could possibly slide to Day 2 with all the talent at tackle, but he'll be a consistent player in the NFL. Plays tough and nasty. BPC, you played line so if you ever get a chance to see him - do it. I think you'll be impressed.
Those are two guys I'd love to see!
Requiem
11-14-2007, 04:38 PM
DJ Hall - Say what you want about this being a WR class that lacks studs as in years past. DJ Hall is a classic example of that. He has solid size and speed but what you might miss behind the scenes is that through two different offense's, he is on pace to post his 2nd straight 1000 yd season. He has also posted some of his best stats against the SEC's best defenses. He also is a four year starter at Alabama.
Love Hall, I've been hoping he'd be a Bronco since last year. :)
Requiem
11-14-2007, 04:41 PM
Oh, and if Vanderbilt WR Earl Bennett comes out, he's automatically the top receiver I'd want to draft.
Already has the career SEC receptions at 228 (maybe more) and he's not done with his junior year.
THE KID IS A G.
NFLBRONCO
11-14-2007, 04:46 PM
D. Jackson WR Cal
DJ Hall WR ALA
socalorado
11-14-2007, 05:45 PM
Earl Bennett Vanderbilt
Height: 6-0. Weight: 200.
40 Time: 4.46.
Projected Round: 1-2.
Earl Bennett managed 82 receptions and 1,146 yards in 2006.
Caught 79 passes a year ago as a freshman.
Hard worker who never gives up on a play and is always willing to do what he has to for his team. Huh. DEN had a guy like this not too long ago.............
Beau Bell, UNLV
Height: 6-3. Weight: 245.
40 Time: 4.73.
Projected Round: 2-3.
Led UNLV in tackles before missing 5 games of the 2006 season with an ankle injury. Can play outside and inside.
UNLV star linebacker Beau Bell on Monday became the first football player in school history to be named conference player of the week three times in one season while also tying former All-American Randall Cunningham as the only Rebels to earn such an award four times in a career.
UNLV star linebacker Beau Bell has been invited to play in the 59th Annual Under Armour Senior Bowl scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 26, 2008, in Mobile, Alabama's Ladd-Peebles Stadium. The game will kick off at 1 p.m. PT and be nationally televised by the NFL Network. Bell is just the fourth Rebel player in history to be asked to compete in the prestigious postseason all-star game.
Yeah, he'll be there ready to drill some unlucky RB trying to run up the middle.....poor fool.
Get these guys.
socalorado
11-14-2007, 05:50 PM
NFL scouts will flock to Sam Boyd Stadium on Saturday primarily to watch Hawaii quarterback Colt Brennan -- but that also means more eyes will be on UNLV linebacker Beau Bell.
If Bell builds on his already strong play in the 6:30 p.m. game, he could make quite an impression on potential future employers.
As of Wednesday, 14 scouts had requested credentials for Saturday's game. Those scouts represent nine NFL clubs and one Canadian Football League team. It is the second-highest number of scouts for a UNLV game (17 attended the 2003 game against Hawaii).
"It probably would help me, but I'm just really focused on helping the team," Bell said. "That's the main thing. We're trying to go out there and get a win. You can't worry about yourself in football. You've got to worry about the people around you.
Regardless, there is little doubt Bell (6 feet 3 inches, 245 pounds) could become an early draft pick. NFL.com analyst Gil Brandt has projected Bell as a high second-round selection, listing him as his top senior inside linebacker.
Bell has justified such expectations with a strong start.
He made nine tackles and forced two fumbles in UNLV's 23-16 win at Utah State. Then in Saturday's 20-13 loss to Wisconsin, Bell led UNLV with 10 tackles, one time leaping over tailback P.J. Hill to sack Tyler Donovan.
UNLV gives a Hard Hat Award each game to the "blue-collar" player who stands out, and Bell won the honor in both games.
"He's really playing well," coach Mike Sanford said. "The key thing is that Beau keeps playing like that."
To do so, linebackers coach Dennis Therrell said, Bell needs to "be consistent. He's got all the physical talent."
That has never been questioned. Bell made 76 tackles, including nine for loss and four sacks, through seven games last season before a high ankle sprain ended his season.
He can only hope to continue his success against the highly touted Brennan, whom most scouts will be focused on.
Brennan, with 10 touchdown passes in Hawaii's first two games, could be the first quarterback taken in next year's draft.
As for Bell's prospects, Therrell cautioned about reading too much into this game, noting the linebacker will be picked over by NFL scouts many times before April.
"I think any time you walk on a football field, you've got to be prepared to make an impression," Therrell said. "Scouts are going to watch every game, and they're going to analyze every play.
"When they come to watch, they're not coming to find out if you can play. They're coming to find out why you can't play in the NFL."
socalorado
11-14-2007, 05:54 PM
Oh and this guy too!!!
Chris Horton, SS, UCLA
Height: 6-1. Weight: 209.
40 Time: 4.56.
Projected Round: 4.
Recorded three picks in 2006, earning a spot on the All-Pac 10 Second Team.
This talented senior enters the 2007 season as one of the top safeties in the nation ... He had an impressive junior season, his first as a starter, and figures to be even more effective this year ... He is a physical player who hits extremely hard ... Also a major contributor on special teams who excels at harassing the punter ... A good open-field tackler.
Many analysts have him as the best all around tackler in the NCAA.
Billy Clyde Puckett
11-14-2007, 06:50 PM
[QUOTE=Requiem;1785337]Even though I'm pleased with the progression of Williams at MIKE, at the top of my list for a "gamer/player" is Vanderbilt's Jonathan Goff.
The guy plays with a fire in his belly, he's a team leader and he does all the right things. He'll make an excellent MIKE in the NFL, or perhaps even a SLB. He's not going to blow you away with a 4.45-4.5 forty from a linebacker, but he's going to be a guy who will succeed in the NFL because he plays with his heart on his sleeve and loves the game. He knocks people around. I personally think he's the best MIKE prospect in this draft that's a senior. Stout against the run, and he has improved as a blitzer and is doing much better in coverage. He will be a very, very good linebacker in the NFL. I think he'll go somewhere in the second-round, but could squeak up into late-round one if he does well at Mobile and Indianapolis to a team needing a backer.
QUOTE]
Bingo Req.
I would add Kellen Davis of Michigan State, maybe the best TE this year who had been lost in the spread offense for the last 2 years and comes back this year as a receiving threat and plays DE on passing downs. Not sure of his current stats but he had 4 sacks in the first two games.
And of course my favorite roadgrader, Kraig Urbick, RG for Wisconsin. He is the strongest guy I have seen in college ball this year. Does all the dirty work to spring the Wisconisn running game. had no trouble pushing the O$U and UM DTs 5-10 yards down the field on every play.
Gotta love the homeboy Dizon, too.
NFL scouts will flock to Sam Boyd Stadium on Saturday primarily to watch Hawaii quarterback Colt Brennan -- but that also means more eyes will be on UNLV linebacker Beau Bell.
If Bell builds on his already strong play in the 6:30 p.m. game, he could make quite an impression on potential future employers.
As of Wednesday, 14 scouts had requested credentials for Saturday's game. Those scouts represent nine NFL clubs and one Canadian Football League team. It is the second-highest number of scouts for a UNLV game (17 attended the 2003 game against Hawaii).
"It probably would help me, but I'm just really focused on helping the team," Bell said. "That's the main thing. We're trying to go out there and get a win. You can't worry about yourself in football. You've got to worry about the people around you.
Regardless, there is little doubt Bell (6 feet 3 inches, 245 pounds) could become an early draft pick. NFL.com analyst Gil Brandt has projected Bell as a high second-round selection, listing him as his top senior inside linebacker.
Bell has justified such expectations with a strong start.
He made nine tackles and forced two fumbles in UNLV's 23-16 win at Utah State. Then in Saturday's 20-13 loss to Wisconsin, Bell led UNLV with 10 tackles, one time leaping over tailback P.J. Hill to sack Tyler Donovan.
UNLV gives a Hard Hat Award each game to the "blue-collar" player who stands out, and Bell won the honor in both games.
"He's really playing well," coach Mike Sanford said. "The key thing is that Beau keeps playing like that."
To do so, linebackers coach Dennis Therrell said, Bell needs to "be consistent. He's got all the physical talent."
That has never been questioned. Bell made 76 tackles, including nine for loss and four sacks, through seven games last season before a high ankle sprain ended his season.
He can only hope to continue his success against the highly touted Brennan, whom most scouts will be focused on.
Brennan, with 10 touchdown passes in Hawaii's first two games, could be the first quarterback taken in next year's draft.
As for Bell's prospects, Therrell cautioned about reading too much into this game, noting the linebacker will be picked over by NFL scouts many times before April.
"I think any time you walk on a football field, you've got to be prepared to make an impression," Therrell said. "Scouts are going to watch every game, and they're going to analyze every play.
"When they come to watch, they're not coming to find out if you can play. They're coming to find out why you can't play in the NFL."
Bell is exactly what this thread is all about! HE has been a difference-maker on a non-descript UNLV team. The guy has done nothing but produce, and produce, and produce. If you don't know, he is a tackling machine. The thing I love about him the most though? THE GUY FORCES TO'S! I'm pretty sure he has 3 FF's and 4 INT's. I would love to find a way to add this guy in the second round if at all possible.
J. Leman of Illinois.
Ezra Butler of Nevada
Jeremy Zuttah is also a guy who competes.
James Davis
Mike Hart
Dan Connor, OLB, Penn State Sr, 6-3, 233
A senior, Connor recorded 11 tackles, with a tackle for loss, in last Saturday’s 26-19 win over Purdue to pass Posluszny (372) and become Penn State’s career tackle leader with 379.
Dre Moore, DT, Maryland Sr, 6-4, 311
nearly 6-foot-5, 310-pound frame, Moore passes the eye test with flying colors, as he has set several personal offseason training records, including a 4.8-second 40 time, 34-inch vertical and nearly 500-pound bench press. He can dominate the line of scrimmage, create match-up problems and draw double teams to himself, which helps free up linebackers to make the tackle.
Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt Sr, 6-6, 315
He is 6'6" about 315, but amazing quickness and technique. He is a candidate for any scheme; but I think he would excel in the ZBS. He plays with a real mean steak and could elevate himself to a 1st or 2nd rounder come draft time
Tony Hills, OT, Texas Sr, 6-6, 305
Texas senior left tackle Tony Hills suffered a fibula fracture in his left leg and will miss the rest of the season, according to Kenny Boyd, UT’s athletic trainer for football. “He’ll get healthy, work hard in his rehabilitation and has a bright future in the NFL and beyond.” .
D.J. Hall
NFLBRONCO
11-14-2007, 10:26 PM
J. Leman of Illinois.
Ezra Butler of Nevada
Jeremy Zuttah is also a guy who competes.
James Davis
Mike Hart
Nice list Lex.
How high do you see Hart going?
J. Leman of Illinois.
Ezra Butler of Nevada
Jeremy Zuttah is also a guy who competes.
James Davis
Mike Hart
Just a question, have you seen Ezra play and if so what do you like about him?
Doggcow
11-15-2007, 12:34 AM
1st round we get a WR/KR/PR, for sure. Then hire a decent ST Coach. We lose so many ****ing games because of out **** ST's, so its time to fix it.
Just a question, have you seen Ezra play and if so what do you like about him?
Yeah, Ive seen him play. He's a worker. He used to be a lot heavier and actually dropped a lot of weight to play LB. I know he has slid a while but I dont think he would be a bad pick if he slid to us in the fourth because of what I said. He has some athleticism though he could stand to drop a little more weight. But I think hell stick his nose in there.
Jacob Hester - FB - LSU - Very similar player to Brian Leonard from Rutgers last year. Has some good HB skills although he is playing in a FB's body. Very good hands and physical in the run game. He is an ultimate team player who could have a versatile role for offenses.
Nelson's physical stature will bring comparisons to certain other Broncos receivers like Eddie Mac. What he has been to KState football over the past three years has been unlike many other players in their history. He exploded on the scene during his Sophomore season earning 2nd team all big 12 honors while catching touchdowns in 7 straight games and almost 700yds. While his stats dipped his junior season through an injury plagued campaign, he still led KState in receiving. This season he has bounced back with almost 1400 yds receiving and 9 TD's.
3 year starter at Center who has really set the tempo for the SunDevils offense this year. Great blocker on the run and the pass.
Eric had a solid year last season for U of San Diego notching 7 sacks. This year he has been on a tear notching 18 sacks while racking up 42 solo tackles along with 24 assisted tackles.
socalorado
11-15-2007, 09:19 AM
Yeah, Ive seen him play. He's a worker. He used to be a lot heavier and actually dropped a lot of weight to play LB. I know he has slid a while but I dont think he would be a bad pick if he slid to us in the fourth because of what I said. He has some athleticism though he could stand to drop a little more weight. But I think hell stick his nose in there.
Ezra would also be a fantastic addition.
I would love to somehow get Beau Bell AND Ezra in this draft, but thats well.....just being selfish. Theres alot of possibilities out there still for needs i guess.
Billy Clyde Puckett
11-15-2007, 01:36 PM
A guy who may not ever make it in the NFL, but he has been a great leader and willed his team to win games this year is Tenn QB Eric Ainge
Elway777
11-15-2007, 05:29 PM
Eric had a solid year last season for U of San Diego notching 7 sacks. This year he has been on a tear notching 18 sacks while racking up 42 solo tackles along with 24 assisted tackles.Another small school defensive end I like. I also like Brian Johnston and Kendall Langford. Ray Rice ,Jordan Dizon and Spencer Larsen are some players not yet mentioned
Positives: Physical back who rarely goes down on initial contact. True north-south runner who can hit the hole hard and fights for extra yardage. Good vision. Has cut-back ability, and while not truly quick, does have acceleration to and through the hole to separate from the pack.
Negatives: Lacks the quick feet and breakaway speed to fit every NFL scheme. Broke out last season with a monster campaign, but will have to prove as a senior that his production was not the result of defenses focusing on Calvin Johnson.
Nationally underrated, Williams boasts a rare combination of size, balance and versatility that has NFL scouts projecting the massive Commodore as a prospect for positions all along the offensive line.
A veteran of 21 consecutive starts entering his senior campaign, Williams has seen time at left tackle and left guard, earning Second Team SEC honors, as voted by the coaches, after the 2006 season. Williams had impressed coaches in the past, but broke out in 2006, allowing only one sack all year -- against Michigan's LaMarr Woodley in the season opener.
Williams isn't the flashy athlete most teams are looking for in a blind-side protector. He has only adequate quickness out of his stance and doesn't dominate his opponent as one would expect of a player with his size. Williams does use his hands well to engage the defender, however, and has good balance and lateral agility to ride his opponent to the outside.
Teams are split on where he'll best fit at the next level, though with his size and experience in the SEC, he'll likely be given the opportunity to first play on the outside.
Billy Clyde Puckett
11-15-2007, 10:07 PM
Positives: Physical back who rarely goes down on initial contact. True north-south runner who can hit the hole hard and fights for extra yardage. Good vision. Has cut-back ability, and while not truly quick, does have acceleration to and through the hole to separate from the pack.
Negatives: Lacks the quick feet and breakaway speed to fit every NFL scheme. Broke out last season with a monster campaign, but will have to prove as a senior that his production was not the result of defenses focusing on Calvin Johnson.
Great choice bpc. Might thrive in Denver
Solid DT who has been a 3 year starter for Notre Dame. This season he leads the defense in tackles.
Nice list Lex.
How high do you see Hart going?
It depends on who/where. I see him going in the 2nd or 3rd...maybe the 4th but I think 2nd or 3rd.
Im going to add
Bryan Kehl
Joe Fields
J. Leman
O. Schmitt
Carl Stewart
Josh Thompson
Cory Boyd
Short in stature but not production on the field. Has had a solid career intercepting 2 passes a season until this year when he has picked off a total of 5. Brings great range to his game, the ability to blitz. He's projected as a late round pick but he would bring a range of toughness at CB and also cover us in case Foxworth or Paymah leave in the next couple seasons.
Requiem
11-15-2007, 11:22 PM
I really, really like Choice - but I hate the fact that he too will be a 23/24 year old rookie. A great player though. A jack of all trades but a master of none. He runs so tough and hard, and has such great vision. He can catch a little bit too. He could go somewhere in the second-round, but I think he might slip a bit.
Right now RB seems to be a luxury choice unless we can get some more picks, and if Henry is dumped. . . go for someone. Choice would be cool.
Probably one of the most successful QB's in collegiate history. Through the 2007 season he has 38 TD's to just 1 INT with 2700 yds passing and over 700 yds rushing.
Think he is on a one year aberation? He had 34 TD's to just 5 INT's last season with 3300 yds passing and over 800 yds rushing.
I could go on and on as his sophomore stats are good as well. Bottom line is that if he was I-A, he would be a consensus 1st round draft pick with those stats. As of right now he is a small school prospect who is flying slightly under the radar.
Three year starter for the Mountaineers. Wicks is the leader in the secondary because of his experience and big-play ability ... outstanding athlete who has natural ball skills ... has studied the game to better understand the overall defense ... his confidence continues to grow with familiarity. Plays the bandit position which is more of a roam position within the secondary, LB's and being able to blitz on the front line. He is not highly regarded outside the Big East but if I had to make a comparison from his size and speed along with the type of game he plays... it would be Rodney Harrison.
Billy Clyde Puckett
11-18-2007, 11:04 AM
I have mentioned this guy before. I would love for the Broncos to get Jehuu Caulcrick of Michigan State in the 4/5 round. Of course I like old school power backs. 6'0" 260# Has over 800 yards rushing this year sharing running back duites with the speed back, Ringer. Has scored 21 touchdowns this year and has NEVER FUMBLED IN HIS CAREER. Probably rated average as a receiver but wasn't asked to do it this year. His father was a politician in Nigeria and was killed before his mother moved him to the US. Great student and team leader.
BTW, At least 3 times yesterday, I saw him carry Dan Conner on his back 4-5 yards down the field.
Requiem
11-18-2007, 02:22 PM
I have mentioned this guy before. I would love for the Broncos to get Jehuu Caulcrick of Michigan State in the 4/5 round. Of course I like old school power backs. 6'0" 260# Has over 800 yards rushing this year sharing running back duites with the speed back, Ringer. Has scored 21 touchdowns this year and has NEVER FUMBLED IN HIS CAREER. Probably rated average as a receiver but wasn't asked to do it this year. His father was a politician in Nigeria and was killed before his mother moved him to the US. Great student and team leader.
BTW, At least 3 times yesterday, I saw him carry Dan Conner on his back 4-5 yards down the field.
I was not that impressed with Dan the other day, but I did like what I saw from State's running game. I think Ringer would be an interesting addition here next year. :)
Thanks for the info!
I have mentioned this guy before. I would love for the Broncos to get Jehuu Caulcrick of Michigan State in the 4/5 round. Of course I like old school power backs. 6'0" 260# Has over 800 yards rushing this year sharing running back duites with the speed back, Ringer. Has scored 21 touchdowns this year and has NEVER FUMBLED IN HIS CAREER. Probably rated average as a receiver but wasn't asked to do it this year. His father was a politician in Nigeria and was killed before his mother moved him to the US. Great student and team leader.
BTW, At least 3 times yesterday, I saw him carry Dan Conner on his back 4-5 yards down the field.
Please, no. We already have Cecil Sapp and Mike Bell.
Billy Clyde Puckett
11-18-2007, 05:29 PM
Please, no. We already have Cecil Sapp and Mike Bell.
Bell's a goner and Sapp may be also. Caulcrick can actually run the ball, block and catch the ball.
Huge redzone target that has averaged at least 10 TD's over the past three seasons. This year he is absolutely blowing up with 16 TD's and over 1000yds receiving. He has a TD is all but one game and multipled TD's in 5 games.
Some will knock his speed but you don't need to speed with you have a 6'6" frame and weight 220 pounds. If he can find a way to increase his speed to even 4.5, he could be a top 15 pick this year.
Great Article: SCHMITT IS THE FACE OF WEST VIRGINIA TOUGHNESS
On the credenza in West Virginia coach Rich Rodriguez's office, next to the picture of the wife and kids, is the twisted face mask that his fullback Owen Schmitt wore in last year's Louisville game.
"Those things are steel, and they're not easy to bend," says Rodriguez of the facemasks Schmitt mangles every few games. The one that Rodriguez keeps as his prized trophy is significant because it's emblematic of Schmitt and the No. 3 Mountaineers, who play No. 5 Louisville tonight.
"Part of what he did in that game, and what we try to embody in our program, is playing tough and physical all the way from the first play to the last play," Rodriguez says about last year's 46-44 3OT win. "That overtime showed a little bit of not just Owen's personality, but our personality."
Besides toughness, the Mountaineers' relentless running attack is their other character trait. The nation's No. 1 rushing offense (319 yards) is testament not only to the quicksilver tandem of quarterback Pat White and running back Steve Slaton but also to the lead blocking of Schmitt, who at 6-3, 250 pounds can catch and carry when needed.
"We have more concerns than just Slaton and White," says Louisville coach Bobby Petrino. "(Schmitt) is definitely a concern because he's so physical and last year they gave him the ball against us in the fourth quarter and we had a hard time tackling him."
Never pushed back
In 19 games for West Virginia, Schmitt has never been stopped for a loss. This season the junior is the team's third-leading rusher (181 yards, five TDs) and receiver (88 yards, one TD).
Ask Schmitt, who walked on at West Virginia after a year at Division III Wisconsin-River Falls, what he enjoys the most about his job and without hesitation he says blocking. "It's fun, and it's also fun when you have two talented guys behind you in Pat White and Steve Slaton. Touchdowns are great, don't get me wrong, but I enjoyed the Louisville run, running someone over, or a lead block and pancaking the linebacker. I almost enjoy those more than scoring."
When Slaton sees No. 35 in front of him, his pulse steadies; he knows he can relax and just run. "Running behind him, I don't worry about a linebacker coming to tackle me because I know he's going to get his block," Slaton says. "When he's blocking guys, he's moving them out of the way."
Against Louisville last year, Schmitt showed he's more than the strongest guy in the weight room. In the first overtime, his 23-yard run set up a Slaton score. In the third overtime, White hit Schmitt for a 20-yard gain on third-and-8 that resulted in the final Slaton TD. "We were just busting our buttons around here after that one," says Schmitt's grandfather, Duane Jenson, of Schmitt's hometown of Gilman, Wis.
Even on a team full of lunch-pail kids who were overlooked or discounted coming out of high school, Schmitt's story is unique. Schmitt was raised in rural Gilman, population 474, by his grandparents. Growing up as a self-described "little fat kid with glasses," determination and toughness were part of his make-up. Born with a cleft palate, Schmitt endured several surgeries when he was young, including one in which piece of his hip bone was inserted into his jaw. "Kids used to make fun of me because it didn't look normal," he says.
His grandfather was football coach at Gilman High for 36 years, and Schmitt was in charge of the kicking tees and the water bottles. Once he attended a camp coached by John O'Grady of Wisconsin-River Falls and tried to fit in with the high school players even though he was only in sixth grade.
In eighth grade, he moved in with his mother in Fairfax, Va., where he went on to become an all-conference fullback at Fairfax High. However, when no schools offered a scholarship or showed any interest, he gave O'Grady a call. As a freshman at Wisconsin-River Falls, Schmitt ran for 1,063 yards in 2003 and decided to give I-A a shot. Maryland told him he should stay at Wisconsin-River Falls and become a three-time All-American. His grandfather thought he should remain with the Falcons as well. "But he had goals. He thought he could do more," Jenson says.
Schmitt picked West Virginia mostly because some friends from high school went there. During Christmas break, he drove to Morgantown with his mom, Serena Drangle, and dropped off a highlight tape.
"I watch every tape," says Rodriguez, who began his playing career at West Virginia as a walk-on from Grant Town, W. Va., a place as small as Gilman. "I remember seeing this big guy running and saying he's got some skills. If he's willing to pay his own way for a year, we'll take a look at him and see what he shows on the scout team. It was one of those deals, where, heck, this is a freebie. He's looking for an opportunity."
Whatever it took
Schmitt figured if he didn't earn a scholarship after his walk-on season, he would transfer back to Wisconsin-River Falls. "I did whatever I could to get on the scout teams thinking that maybe the coaches would see me while watching practice film sometime," Schmitt says, "and I worked real hard in the weight room."
It paid off. Schmitt was given a scholarship before last season, and he went on to average 7.9 yards a carry in 2005. "He's still that guy who was a former walk-on from a Division III school, trying to prove himself," Rodriguez says. "He has the same mentality in practice every day, and he's going to keep getting better because he's anxious to prove himself."
His odds-defying story, as well as his bruising running style, have made Schmitt a cult hero on campus. From the "Schmitt happens" signs in the stands to the line in a popular local rap song about the Mountaineers that goes "Don't forget Owen Schmitt. He eats hits for dinner" to the tall tales around campus, Schmitt's legend has grown. Just the other day a student asked Schmitt's girlfriend if he could lift a car over his head and if he once ate 60 chicken wings for a snack. Answers: No, but he can hang clean 525 pounds. And yes, he did order 60 wings once but shared the feast with friends.
As for the mangled face masks, that's all true. Rodriguez says his fullback went through four or five last year. He's destroyed a few already this season and with Louisville tonight, the team's equipment manager surely has an extra.
I HOPE SHANAHAN FINDS A WAY TO DRAFT THIS GUY. Seriously.
Elway777
11-19-2007, 02:52 AM
Please, no. We already have Cecil Sapp and Mike Bell.I think the Broncos could use a true fullback next year and move Sapp as backup fullback and backup Hb. There is a great selection of fullbacks in the draft and the Broncos could use a powerback at goaline and for short yardage. I would love for Denver backs to look like this Hb Ray Rice,Young, Mewelde Moore , Hall FB Schmitt ,Sapp. The Broncos trade Bell and cut Paul Smith.
RocBronc
11-19-2007, 11:49 AM
I think the Broncos could use a true fullback next year and move Sapp as backup fullback and backup Hb. There is a great selection of fullbacks in the draft and the Broncos could use a powerback at goaline and for short yardage. I would love for Denver backs to look like this Hb Ray Rice,Young, Mewelde Moore , Hall FB Schmitt ,Sapp. The Broncos trade Bell and cut Paul Smith.
I agree with this... We haven't had a pure fullback since Howard Griffith. I don't like it when we try to take big halfbacks and turn them into fullbacks.
I think the Broncos could use a true fullback next year and move Sapp as backup fullback and backup Hb. There is a great selection of fullbacks in the draft and the Broncos could use a powerback at goaline and for short yardage. I would love for Denver backs to look like this Hb Ray Rice,Young, Mewelde Moore , Hall FB Schmitt ,Sapp. The Broncos trade Bell and cut Paul Smith.
Ray Rice is kind of meh to me. But I agree that Caulcrick would be a waste of a 4th Rd pick. You could probably either pick up a real FB there or someone like McAnderson later.
I agree with this... We haven't had a pure fullback since Howard Griffith. I don't like it when we try to take big halfbacks and turn them into fullbacks.
Who holds the NCAA record for rushing TDs in one game? Ill give you a hint, he wasnt playing FB when he did it.
-Slap-
11-23-2007, 09:04 PM
I have mentioned this guy before. I would love for the Broncos to get Jehuu Caulcrick of Michigan State in the 4/5 round. Of course I like old school power backs. 6'0" 260# Has over 800 yards rushing this year sharing running back duites with the speed back, Ringer. Has scored 21 touchdowns this year and has NEVER FUMBLED IN HIS CAREER. Probably rated average as a receiver but wasn't asked to do it this year. His father was a politician in Nigeria and was killed before his mother moved him to the US. Great student and team leader.
BTW, At least 3 times yesterday, I saw him carry Dan Conner on his back 4-5 yards down the field.
I would love this, too. A brutish fullback would add a dimension of toughness our team is sorely lacking.
Requiem
11-25-2007, 04:33 AM
Another guy who isn't getting a lot of credit because he's flipped positions is Simeon Castille of Alabama, who is a FS/CB for the Tide. He's also the son of former Buccaneer and Bronco Jeremiah Castille. I'm not sure where he's going to go (might time slow at the combine for a corner, but would make a nice FS, could put on some weight though) but he could be there in round four. . . unless he surprises in work outs. Teams might like his value and experience at multiple positions.
SoCalBronco
11-26-2007, 01:47 AM
I would love this, too. A brutish fullback would add a dimension of toughness our team is sorely lacking.
Another great blocking FB is Georgia Tech's Mike Cox. He would be a great addition to our team.
I also think Jay needs a big time deep threat to help Marshall and Big Tony out. I really like Louisville's Harry Douglas in the middle rounds, I think he'll fall due to his size, he's very fast and very productive. Jordy Nelson would also be a great addition for Jay. Man, this offense is going ****ing destroy everyone. Jay is already playing at a very high level. A couple more pieces to the puzzle and it will be absolutely deadly. It's already becoming very, very powerful the last few weeks as players are starting to gell.
Requiem
11-26-2007, 04:02 AM
Douglas is going in the top 60 bud. He ain't gonna be der on Day 2.
Love Hall, I've been hoping he'd be a Bronco since last year. :)
Oh, and if Vanderbilt WR Earl Bennett comes out, he's automatically the top receiver I'd want to draft.
Already has the career SEC receptions at 228 (maybe more) and he's not done with his junior year.
THE KID IS A G.
when are these two guys projected to be drafted?
Oh and this guy too!!!
Chris Horton, SS, UCLA
Height: 6-1. Weight: 209.
40 Time: 4.56.
Projected Round: 4.
Recorded three picks in 2006, earning a spot on the All-Pac 10 Second Team.
This talented senior enters the 2007 season as one of the top safeties in the nation ... He had an impressive junior season, his first as a starter, and figures to be even more effective this year ... He is a physical player who hits extremely hard ... Also a major contributor on special teams who excels at harassing the punter ... A good open-field tackler.
Many analysts have him as the best all around tackler in the NCAA.
That is exactly what our defense needs.
Requiem
12-03-2007, 07:04 PM
when are these two guys projected to be drafted?
Chaz, I'd expect DJ Hall to get early second round consideration, I think he'll compare to Reggie Brown coming out a few years ago. (Eagles WR)
Honestly, I think Bennett can be a first-round guy, the kid screams consistency and will be the next Anquan Boldin. He seems like more of a second-round pick too, would be a sure-fire first rounder if he stayed. . . depends on all the other juniors coming out too! ^5