Published September 22, 2002
The week's edition features three players that had to prove themselves this season - North Carolina State's T.A. McClendon, Colorado's Chris Brown and Florida's Rex Grossman. While Brown and Grossman were expected to help their team compete for the national title, heralded freshman McClendon was expected to take some of the offensive weight from Philip Rivers' shoulders. On Saturday, all three proved that they can play how they are expected to.
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T.A. McClendon, North Carolina State
Why McClendon?: As analysts go ga-ga for Ohio State freshman Maurice Clarett, North Carolina State's T.A. McClendon is not ready to give Clarett the title of "Best true freshman running back." McClendon rushed for 150 yards and an amazing five touchdowns in the Wolfpack's 51-48 victory over Texas Tech in Lubbock. McClendon had been splitting carries with Gregory Golden, but he made the most of his opportunity to be the featured back against the Red Raiders. McClendon won the game for North Carolina State in overtime with a bruising 10-yard run for the game's final score.
Chris Brown, Colorado
Why Brown?: Colorado and running back Chris Brown had been a disappointment entering Saturday's game against UCLA. All that changed as Brown rushed for 188 yards and three touchdowns in the Buffaloes 31-17 victory over the Bruins in Los Angeles.
Before Saturday, Brown and Colorado had underachieved, losing to Southern Cal. and Colorado State. But in typical Colorado fashion, it quelled its naysayers with Saturday's empahtic win after two early losses. Although the Buffaloes can find solace in the win, a formindable Big 12 schedule is just around the corner, and in order repeat as champions, Colorado will need Brown to continue his terrific play.
Rex Grossman, Florida
Why Grossman?: A preseason Heisman trophy candidate, quarterback Rex Grossman had yet to show his chops until a rain-soaked day in Knoxville, Tenn. While the Volunteers suffered from miscues and four first half turnovers, Grossman and the Gators built up an insurmountable 24-0 first half lead. Grossman ended the game with 324 yards passing and three touchdowns.
With his performance he partially redeemed himself, his team and new coach Ron Zook, by proving that Florida can play against top-ranked opponents. He also threw his name back into the wide-open Heisman race. With the help of wide receiver Taylor Jacobs, Grossman should continue his incredible play.
