NationalChamps.net loves the Pokes
By Scott Wright
Oklahoma State had three players on the first-team preseason All-American list released this week by NationalChamps.net.
Wide receiver Dez Bryant, who was a consensus All-American last season as a sophomore, was joined by running back Kendall Hunter (first team All-American by Football Writers Association of America last year) and left tackle Russell Okung on the Web site’s first team. Perrish Cox was a second-team selection as a kick returner.
In addition, Bryant and Hunter were joined by quarterback Zac Robinson among the top 15 preseason Heisman Trophy candidates. Robinson and linebacker Andre Sexton were honorable-mention All-Americans.
Bryant was ranked as the No. 4 Heisman candidate behind Florida’s Tim Tebow, Oklahoma’s Sam Bradford and Texas’ Colt McCoy. Hunter entered the list at No. 8 and Robinson No. 12 as the only team with three members in the top 15.
Here’s the problem I see in OSU’s chances for a Heisman Trophy this fall: None of the three is the total package.
Bryant makes the Heisman highlight plays, like Michael Crabtree last year, but we all know how hard it is for a receiver to win the Heisman.
Robinson is the face of the program, the undisputed leader, and its most valuable player. But when you’re talking Heisman, his stats won’t hold up. Robinson could throw for 230 yards, rush for 65, have four total TDs and make an amazing play to win the game, but in the end, it’ll be hard for his numbers to match what other guys are putting up.
In my opinion, Hunter is the best Heisman candidate of the three. He was in the hunt to lead the nation in rushing last year and few backs with as many carries as he had could rival his yards-per-carry numbers. But he’s quiet and tries to avoid dealing with the media when he can, which can limit his opportunities to get in the public eye outside of the state. And let’s be honest, on some level, the Heisman is nothing more than a nationwide popularity contest.
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As a longtime OSU fan, this coming year is going to be very exciting! We’re hoping that Coach Young is going to revive the defense too. I think you are right about Zac Robinson, he is the most important player on the field. He makes the offense the great weapon that it is. His numbers may not compare to others, but he is excellent at what he does. I wouldn’t trade him for anyone!