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Rider prospects
December 01, 2007I just learned that with the coaching change that Markelle Martin has decommitted to A&M and has committed to the dark side -- Stoops' Sooners. I'm a Horns fan, so I was sad to see that Texas was fifth on his list.
Don't know why, but he is, according to ESPN, going to be playing in Norman shortly.
An associate of ESPN - Scouts, Inc. - gives the following critic of Martin's game:
Evaluation: Martin possesses excellent size, range and toughness at his safety position. He will break off the hash over sideline routes and the next play step down and make a physical hit near the line of scrimmage. He is very versatile and well rounded in all facets.
His greatest attribute might be his savvy diagnosing skills. He expertly reads the quarterback and underneath routes. He blends great timing and anticipation skills with good short-area closing speed to consistently separate the ball from the receiver.
He will win most jump balls or use his long wingspan to deflect the pass. Possesses great ball skills and is a threat in the open-field. As a run supporter, he will shut down his front-side alley with force or effectively sift through the lateral trash to make the big hit.
Sound open-field tackler, he rarely lunges or goes for the drag down. Consistently wraps his head around the ball carrier's waste and drives his hips through. While he is sound in all areas, our only concern with Martin is that some of his productivity stems from his good instincts and positioning, not pure speed and athleticism.
He appears quicker than he is fast. At the next level, with smarter quarterbacks and faster receivers, it will be a more balanced playing field and his true range will be tested.
He might not be able to improve his natural speed, but his overall game can be polished up to help his transition. Needs to stay disciplined in his pedal particularly transitioning in and out.
At times, he stands high, a bit stiff with little fluidity and balance.
Lacks and explosive burst on the ball when attacking underneath. Tends to read and react without good plant and drive technique. Still needs to develop physically and add considerable bulk and strength to consistently play in the box at the next level.
Martin may need a bit of polish, but he is a versatile and rangy athlete who could blossom at the next level.
I also found out that Damien Washington has the following information listed:
Scouts Grade: 70
Position Rank: RB #156
Considering: 1-Texas A&M , 2-Texas Tech , 3-Kansas , 4-Oklahoma State
Evaluation: Washington is a quality running back prospect who can move the chains as an in-line runner. He does not possess workhorse type measureables in terms of size, but he presses the hole with the power of a bigger back between the tackles. Hits the hole quickly and can accelerate to full speed within just a few steps. Flashes good vision and does a nice job setting up blocks at full running speed.
Good luck to the both of 'em.
Posted by Clayton Hein at 01:29 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
