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2006 Games of the Week -------------------------------------------------------------- Feature Stories on each Game !..Click here... ----------------------------------------------------------------- Opening Season Features a Double Header:September 2, 2006Notre Dame (Darius Walker) vs Georgia Tech (Darryl Richard) September 4, 2006Florida State (Myron Rolle) vs Miami -------------------------------------------- September 9, 2006Ohio State (Ted Ginn Jr., Bryant Browning) vs Texas (Justin Blalock)
September 16, 2006 LSU vs Auburn (Benjamin Tate) --------------------------------------------- Double Header Weekend:September 22, 2006 Northwestern (Sam Cheatham) vs Nevada September 23, 2006 Northern Colorado (Aaron Henderson) vs Western Illinois ------------------------------------------------- September 30, 2006 Stanford (Allen Smith, Jason Evans, Marcus McCutcheon, Ekom Udofia, Emeka Nnoli) vs UCLA (Robert Kibble, Shawn Oatis, Terrance Austin)
October 7, 2006Oklahoma (Gerald McCoy) vs Texas (Justin Blalock)
October 14, 2006Florida State (Myron Rolle) vs Duke (Vincent Oghabaase) October 21, 2006 - Week 8 Bonus Game Davidson ( Jonathon Hubbard) (Watkins Class of 2003) October 28, 2006Georgia (Mohamed Massaquoi) vs Florida (Jemalle Cornelius)
November 4, 2006Mississippi State vs Alabama (Terry Grant)
November 18, 2006Michigan (Douglas Dutch) vs Ohio State (Ted Ginn Jr., Bryant Browning) --------------------------------------- Feature Stories on each Game ! September 2, 2006Notre Dame (Darius Walker) vs Georgia Tech (Darryl Richard) The Watkins Games of the Week have returned for the 2006 season. This is not a moment too soon and includes with some extraordinary games and highlights for the opening games of the season. While every other major college football team was playing a tune up game against a less talented team; Georgia Tech and Notre Dame had other things in mind. Clearly this game was advertised as the game of the week. The hottest Game in the Nation featured a Watkins "DOUBLE - D" combination on opposing sides. Darryl Richard #95 plays defensive tackle at Georgia Tech and Notre Dame featured running back Darius Walker #3, both from the Watkins Class of 2004. Darryl is returning from a year of rehabilitation after major knee surgery last year. If you can remember the old TV show the Bionic Man.........it appears that they have rebuilt him bigger, stronger and faster. Darryl looked great with several tackles and chased Brady Quinn around the backfield. What is even more impressive is that instead of hanging his head while rehabilitating his knee, he took this opportunity to increase his workload and will graduate from Georgia Tech with his bachelors degree in 3 years. It takes an incredible amount of work to play major college football and attend college, but it is mind boggling to think of the effort it takes to play football and graduate from Georgia Tech in 3 years; one of the toughest universities in the nation. WOW! Notre Dame has the best running back in the nation in Darius Walker. Walker is continuing to put up great numbers with half of the opportunities. Because Notre Dame has the proclaimed best quarterback and receiving core in the nation, they keep trying to establish the running game by passing. That sounds like a backward thinking strategy, but that is the world that Darius lives in. Georgia Tech shut down the passing game of Notre Dame and of course they rested on the shoulders of Mr. Reliable who had 117 yards and the winning touchdown to push Notre Dame over the edge in this highly contested competition. While you may hear more talk about other players at Notre Dame it seemed like every other fan was adorned with his football jersey. He is the most respected player on the team. The nation will be looking at every game while they have their quarterback on the Heisman Watch, but don't be surprised if Darius is in New York at the end of the season. What a way to start the season! I hope you enjoy the ride with me this year is going to be exhilarating.
September 4, 2006Florida State (Myron Rolle) vs Miami Monday Night Football featured the debut of Myron Rolle Watkins Class of 2006. As a true freshman, he is competing for the starting position at Florida State. With all of the talent at Florida State, I can't remember seeing a true freshman start. In an exciting game and winning effort for Florida State, Myron got some opportunities to play at Safety as well as special teams. Keep your eye on Myron Rolle at Florida State. His goal was to start the opening game, but he should be starting by the end of the season. Other notable performances were Ted Ginn, Jr. scored two touchdowns and over 100 receiving yards, Jamalle Cornelius scored a touchdown in a winning effort at Florida, Sam Cheatham started his first game for Northwestern, and Vince Oghabaase started his first college game after knee surgery last year to record several tackles and a solid game in a loosing effort at Duke.
September 9, 2006Ohio State (Ted Ginn Jr., Bryant Browning) vs Texas (Justin Blalock) The Watkins Game of the Week featured Ohio State the nations ranked #1 team and Texas at #2. It has been Ten years since the number one team in the country has faced the number two team before a Bowl Game and it the first time its happened this early in the season. Ohio State features Ted Ginn, Jr (Class of 2004)and Bryant Browning (Class of 2006) and Texas featured Justin Blalock (Class of 2002). Browning is going to redshirt this season, but Tedd Ginn Jr. and Justin Blalock are the heart and soul of their teams. Did you ever think that Watkins Alumni would be featured in a game so highly publicized? Justin Blalock is continuing his campaign to prove that he is clearly the best offensive lineman in the country. Its a debate for some, but the undeniable truth for those who have studied his performance. The Playboy All American and SEC All American is dominating everyone who opposes him. Justin knocked his man so far down the field on most plays that he spent most of his time in the Ohio State defensive backfield. Although Justin's efforts have been enough in the past to win a national championship, this offense is just too young and inconsistent. This game proves how tough it is to win the big games with a freshman quarterback. Ted Ginn Jr, a Playboy All American as well, was the show on the Ohio State side of the ball. Ted has established himself as one of the top receivers in the country. With his speed and instinct, he has become virtually unstoppable at the college level. Ted amassed over 100 yards receiving while making an important touchdown at the end of the half that gave Ohio State momentum and a lead that they never relinquished. Not only did Ted make the Big Plays, but he also made several clutch receptions to get first downs at key points in the game. Although these two gentleman are an example of how Watkins Alumni are dominating the college football scene. They are the most humble and community minded individuals you will ever meet. This is going to be an exciting season for both teams and this isn't the last you will hear of these young men; as they represent themselves, their families, and the Watkins Award with Honor.
September 16, 2006 LSU vs Auburn (Benjamin Tate) The Watkins Game of the week 3 was Auburn vs LSU. This is one of the few games where the Watkins Award was only represented on one team. Watkins Semi Finalist Bennie Tate is a running back at Auburn. Although it is probable that Bennie will redshirt he has made an impression on the Auburn Community. Like Myron Rolle he left high school in December to enroll early and has fit in as an upperclassman. Bennie said this was an opportunity to get a head start on his college academics and graduate early. He was the shining star of Spring competitions and I can't wait until he gets on the field. Auburn has become the NFL factory for running backs. Stay tuned. Other impressive Watkins performances include two touchdowns for Ted Ginn at Ohio State and a touchdown for Jemalle Cornelius at the University of Florida. Double Header Weekend:September 22, 2006 Northwestern (Sam Cheatham) vs Nevada September 23, 2006 Northern Colorado (Aaron Henderson) vs Western Illinois I logged almost 6000 miles of travel to pull off this week’s double header, but it was well worth every mile. The double header Games of the Week featured Sam Cheatham (Watkins 2003) of Northwestern University against the University of Nevada and the second game was Aaron Henderson (Watkins 2003) of University of Northern Colorado against Western Illinois. The first game took me to Reno, Nevada where I was welcomed by 8 family members there to see Sam Cheatham play. Linda and Johnnie especially send their regards to the Watkins Family. For the past three years Sam has worked extremely hard to capture the coveted starting receiver position. His hard work and determination has paid off because he is now the starting receiver at Northwestern. This past week he played injured from a deep thigh bruise suffered in the previous game, but with his family in attendance he would not be denied the opportunity to perform on the field. Sam is an extremely well rounded receiver balanced at catching and blocking or doing whatever it takes to help his team win. His statistics are suffering from an inexperienced quarterback, but he will get his opportunities both this year and next. Sam has selected sociology as major of choice. Like the pattern set by past Watkins Alumnus and the expectations of his family, he will Graduate in December. In fact he could graduate earlier if he didn't intend to play another year. A degree from Northwestern isn't easy to accomplish, but Sam has mastered it and may go add a second degree or a minor to his credentials. It was a long road there to see him but worth every mile. The second game was an hour north of Denver at the University of Northern Colorado. I was there to attend the Northern Colorado game featuring Aaron Henderson (Watkins 2003). I believe I am the only person that calls him Aaron, because he is known by all others as BOOM. Yes BOOM! Although small in stature the opposing offense can tell you why they call him Boom. In fact he is so popular at his school that there is a fan section where a group of students where T-shirts that read "Boom's Hotties". But back to the Football, Aaron is a shut down corner and punt returner for Northern Colorado. His reputation on the field so precedes him that opposing teams neither throw to his side of the field nor punt to him. He has been starting since his red shirt freshman year and getting better with every passing season. Although Northern Colorado is a small school they have placed a player in the draft every year for the past several years; Aaron is hoping to keep the tradition going. Aaron is well respected by his teammates and the entire University for his character. He has been featured on several posters and promotional items for the University to encourage other students like him to attend. As a psychology major, he will graduate next year. Hopefully his field of studies will enable him to administer some reverse psychology on the opposing quarterbacks so they will throw to his side enabling him to log more interceptions like years past!
Although the travel was long and tiring the experience was exciting and exhilarating. I enjoyed spending time with these wonderful young men the their families. September 30, 2006 Stanford (Allen Smith, Jason Evans, Marcus McCutcheon, Ekom Udofia, Emeka Nnoli) vs UCLA (Robert Kibble, Shawn Oatis, Terrance Austin)
This weeks game featured more Watkins Award Alumnus than any other week
this year. Stanford University the host of five Watkins Awardees
(Marcus McCutcheon, Jason Evans, Emeka Nnoli, Allen Smith, Mark
Bradford and Ekom Udofia) against and UCLA hosting three Watkins Men (
Robert Kibble, Shawn Kibble and Terrence Austin). The illustrious Rose
Bowl with 9 (nine) Watkins Men representing the combined teams. Can you
picture that?
Stanford University isn't having its best football season, but its truly
continuing to shape some great young men. Marcus McCutcheon didn't play
this week because of a knee injury sustained a couple of weeks ago. He
has graduated already, however has returned to play his final season and
will be back on the field soon. Mark Bradford is also out for the
season with a foot injury, but will graduate in 4 years; a tremendous
effort at Stanford with the academic workload. Allen Smith is in his
second season in a starting campaign at Stanford. Allen is looking much
more comfortable on the field and his performance shows another year of
experience. I am certain that they wished the team had more players
like Allen at the other offensive line positions. Jason Evans has
outperformed his competition, however may be caught in the coaching
change blues with a true freshman starting ahead of him. Although given
the opportunity averaged over 5 yards a carry in his few attempts.
Emeka Nnoli has broken into the starting line up as the full back. Its
great to see three years of hard work pay off! Emeka caught several
passes ran the ball and more importantly blocked. Last but not least
Ekom Udofia as a red shirt Freshman is the anchor of the defensive
line. After sustaining an injury that ended his high school career
prematurely and redshirting his first year at Stanford, it is incredible
to see him on the field. There were doctors that said he would barely
walk again without pain and he has work himself into supreme shape to
dominate the opposition. Wow that's a lot of kids to talk about on one
team, but they keep me alert while attempting to observe each player on
the field. There is more to come on these young men at the last game of
the season against Cal.
UCLA has three young men to boast of as well this year in Robert Kibble,
Shawn Oatis, and Terrence Austin. Robert Kibble is one of the
strongest, intelligent, mature, and responsible young men I have ever
met. He received substantial playing time last year as a true freshman
at UCLA. His football career has ended because of the elevated dangers
in playing with Multiple Sclerosis. UCLA also deserves a great deal of
credit for standing behind their scholarship offer knowing that this
could happen. Robert has handled this well and intends to finish in
less than 4 years with his degree in economics. Shawn Oatis was plagued
with a unfortunate off season that involved a auto accident and foot
injury, but has been on the academic Dean's List every semester at
UCLA. As a true freshman, Terrence Austin is returning punts and
getting time at receiver. His future is extremely bright
and promising.
This game was held in Pasadena just north of Los Angeles land of the
Hollywood Stars, but it was there that the Rose Bowl featured some of
America's Brightest Stars!
October 14, 2006Florida State (Myron Rolle) vs Duke (Vincent Oghabaase)
The Game of the Week was Florida State (Myron Rolle Class of 2006) versus Duke University (Vince Oghabaase Class of 2005). Let me start out by saying these two young men have a great deal in common. They are both elite members of the illustrious Watkins Family, both wear the number 3, both play defense, both skipped their last semesters of high school to start college early, and they are both dominating their defenses very early in their careers. Although these are some great commonalities, there are many other ways that they have taken separate paths.
Vincent Oghabaase is in his red shirt freshman year at Duke University. He spent his last year in rehabilitation after suffering a season ending knee injury during spring practice. After a year of anticipation and hard work Duke has finally "Unleashed the V". Vincent has selected to take part in the building process at Duke University where there is a strong legacy of success in basketball but not football .... Yet? He has trimmed down 60 pounds to a svelte 6' 6" 300 lb frame. But even at that size, he is an imposing force on the defensive line for Duke. He successfully collapsed his side of the line on most plays; however he needs some help before they will become a force as a team. Vince executed a picture perfect technique Saturday beating two of the opposing lineman and finishing the play by tackling the Florida State running back for a SAFETY! I am certain that some would look at the chore of helping build this program as an impossible task. I assure you that Vince has viewed this as just another opportunity to make a difference and pave the way for others to follow. He is extremely comfortable assuming that challenge while attaining an incredible education. Even more than its recognition for basketball is the rigorous educational curriculum at Duke University. To think that while his peers were finishing high school credits, Vince was taking classes at Duke and mastering them with high marks. Don’t be surprised if you see a sculpture of Vince in the football lobby before his years are over.
Myron Rolle has taken a different path by joining a football powerhouse at Florida State. Coaches at Florida State have stated that very few high school athletes live up to the amount of hype that accompanies athletes like Myron. But for the first time in Florida State history, Myron has exceeded the hype. In week 1, I warned you to keep your eyes out for him because he would be starting before the conclusion of the season. At that time, I looked forward to the Duke game. I assumed that this would be the game where he would get significant playing time. Boy was I wrong!!! Four games into the season, Myron seized the starting position from a senior and led the team that game with twelve tackles. He followed that performance with eight tackles against NC State. Myron has taken Florida State by storm and I am not certain they were ready for it, but they will be much better because of it. I have received many calls from media personnel covering Myron who want to ask questions about the Watkins Award. I later discovered that the Watkins Award has been plastered on National Television as an accomplishment, while the rest of the country was introduced to Myron as a college starter. With all of the football accolades he is also moving at the same pace in the classroom. Myron has aspirations to be a doctor and a pre-med major at Florida State. On pace to graduate in 2.5 years, he currently carries a 4.0 GPA after a semester and summer of classes. WOW…. I had to pause on that one. The Myron Rolle train is moving at a rapid pace. I hope you can keep up because the train has started “ROLLING” Along………. All Aboard!! Great Weekend with two Great Young Watkins Men!
October 21,2006 - Week 8 Bonus Game This is a Bonus Week which was not included on the schedule. I am certain that most of you have never heard of Davidson College, but you will know of the Watkins Alum that we have featured in Jonathon Hubbard (Watkins Class of 2003). Upon graduation from high school, he was nationally known for his domination on the football field and wrestling mat. As a three time State Champion wrestler, he decided to attend the academic institution of choice and walk away from wrestling. While at Davidson, he continued his football career. The most accurate description of his build and running style is a tank. At five feet and eight inches tall he weighs in at over 220 pounds. In four years of attending his college games, I have never observed any opposing defense stop him short of a 4 yard gain. Once he gets moving forward, you better pile on and prepare for a ride. I remember as a freshman Jonathon had a junior started over him, but he informed me the starting position would his by the end of the year; and he was!! Jonathon always seems to have a plan and would execute it to perfection. Instead of attending Iowa or Michigan or one of the wrestling powerhouses (where he had full scholarship offers), he decided to attend Davidson College and graduate in four years. For those of you who have never heard of Davidson, its extremely well known in the Southeast as an equivalent to an Ivy League school. They play the likes of Georgetown, Drake and others. Graduating this December with a bachelors degree in economics, he already has his eyes set on attaining a masters degree from Wake Forest beginning next year. Did I tell you he has a plan? I enjoyed watching him attack opposing teams with a punishing running style. Always focusing on his goal to score touchdowns and win with his team. What's incredible is his transition of that same focus to succeed in his life. I remember his mom letting me in on a quote she always gave him growing up. Why focus on playing for a team when you could own a team? I can say with 100% of certainty that Jonathon will own or achieve whatever he wants in life and his future is Bright! Hmmmmmmmmmm What team is up for sale in two years?
** Games of the week are the games that are featuring Watkins Alumni. Everette will be in attendance. The second team listed above is the home team should you plan to attend. |
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