Tavon Austin’s College Career
Tavon Austin’s college football career at West Virginia University was a dazzling display of athleticism and versatility. He emerged as one of the most dynamic offensive weapons in the nation, showcasing his exceptional speed, agility, and playmaking ability.
Key Statistics and Accolades
Austin’s statistics reflect his explosive impact on the Mountaineers’ offense. He amassed impressive numbers in both rushing and receiving, highlighting his versatility as a threat both on the ground and through the air.
- Rushing: 2,832 yards, 32 touchdowns
- Receiving: 2,277 yards, 17 touchdowns
His accomplishments earned him numerous accolades, solidifying his status as one of the top players in college football.
- 2012 Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year
- 2012 Walter Camp Award (best player in college football)
- 2012 Biletnikoff Award (best receiver in college football)
- 2012 Consensus All-American
Playing Style and Strengths, Tavon austin college highlights
Austin’s playing style was characterized by his electrifying speed, exceptional agility, and ability to make defenders miss in the open field. He possessed a unique blend of power and elusiveness, making him a nightmare for opposing defenses.
“He’s the most explosive player I’ve ever coached. He’s got a gift.” – West Virginia head coach Dana Holgorsen
His most notable strengths included:
- Explosive speed: Austin’s ability to accelerate quickly and reach top speed was unmatched. He consistently broke away from defenders, turning short gains into long touchdowns.
- Elusive agility: His exceptional footwork and balance allowed him to make sharp cuts and change direction with ease, making him difficult to tackle in the open field.
- Versatility: Austin was a threat both as a running back and a wide receiver, allowing him to create mismatches and exploit weaknesses in opposing defenses.
Impact on West Virginia’s Offense
Austin’s presence transformed the West Virginia Mountaineers’ offense, adding a dynamic dimension that made them a formidable force. His ability to create big plays consistently stretched defenses and opened up opportunities for other offensive players.
- Increased offensive production: Austin’s explosiveness led to a significant increase in West Virginia’s offensive output, making them one of the most exciting teams in college football.
- Enhanced playmaking ability: His ability to make plays both on the ground and through the air created numerous scoring opportunities for the Mountaineers.
- Improved team morale: Austin’s infectious enthusiasm and leadership qualities inspired his teammates, fostering a winning culture within the program.
Weaknesses
Despite his numerous strengths, Austin did have some weaknesses that limited his overall impact.
- Durability: Austin was prone to injuries, which occasionally hampered his availability and limited his overall production.
- Route running: While he was a dangerous receiver, his route running was not always precise, which sometimes resulted in dropped passes.
- Blocking: Austin’s blocking skills were not as developed as his receiving and rushing abilities, which could have limited his effectiveness in certain offensive schemes.
Tavon Austin’s College Highlights
Tavon Austin’s electrifying speed, agility, and playmaking ability were on full display during his time at West Virginia University. His explosive performances on the field earned him numerous accolades and solidified his status as one of the most exciting college football players of his generation.
Tavon Austin’s Most Memorable College Plays
Austin’s college career was filled with highlight-reel moments that left fans in awe. His versatility as a receiver, running back, and return specialist made him a constant threat to opposing defenses.
| Game | Opponent | Date | Play Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia vs. Baylor | Baylor | October 27, 2012 | Austin returned a kickoff 100 yards for a touchdown, showcasing his exceptional speed and elusiveness. This was the second 100-yard kickoff return touchdown of his career, a feat rarely seen in college football. |
| West Virginia vs. Oklahoma State | Oklahoma State | October 20, 2012 | Austin caught a 91-yard touchdown pass from Geno Smith, displaying his remarkable speed and ability to break tackles. He caught the ball in stride and raced down the sideline for the score, leaving defenders in his wake. |
| West Virginia vs. Texas | Texas | November 10, 2012 | Austin took a handoff from Geno Smith and ran 80 yards for a touchdown, demonstrating his impressive power and agility. He broke through multiple tackles and used his quick feet to elude defenders. |
| West Virginia vs. Texas Tech | Texas Tech | September 29, 2012 | Austin returned a punt 89 yards for a touchdown, highlighting his exceptional vision and instincts. He caught the punt in the end zone, made a quick cut, and then burst through the Texas Tech coverage team for a score. |
Tavon Austin’s Impact on the NFL Draft: Tavon Austin College Highlights
Tavon Austin’s electrifying college highlights played a significant role in his meteoric rise up NFL draft boards. His exceptional speed, agility, and versatility showcased a unique talent that captivated scouts and teams alike, ultimately influencing his draft position and shaping his NFL career.
Tavon Austin’s College Highlights and Their Influence on NFL Scouts
Austin’s explosive performances at West Virginia University, particularly his electrifying returns and game-changing plays, drew widespread attention from NFL scouts. His ability to break tackles, outrun defenders, and make big plays in crucial moments solidified his reputation as a dynamic and impactful offensive weapon. Scouts recognized his potential to be a game-changer at the professional level, highlighting his exceptional speed, agility, and versatility.
“He’s got the ability to change the game in a heartbeat,”
said one NFL scout, emphasizing Austin’s potential impact on the game. This sentiment was shared by many scouts, who were impressed by his ability to make an immediate impact on the field.
Tavon Austin’s Draft Position Compared to Similar Players
Austin’s impressive college career propelled him into the first round of the 2013 NFL Draft, where he was selected eighth overall by the St. Louis Rams. This high draft position reflects the high regard scouts and teams held for his potential.
To compare, other players with similar college careers, such as DeSean Jackson and Percy Harvin, were also selected in the first round of their respective drafts. However, Austin’s versatility and unique skill set, as showcased in his college highlights, arguably set him apart from these players, contributing to his higher draft position.
Role of College Highlights in Austin’s Selection by the St. Louis Rams
Austin’s college highlights played a crucial role in his selection by the St. Louis Rams. The Rams, looking for a dynamic playmaker to spark their offense, were captivated by Austin’s explosive performances on film. His ability to make big plays, stretch the field, and create opportunities for himself and his teammates made him an attractive prospect for the Rams, who were eager to add a game-changer to their roster.
“He’s a dynamic playmaker who can change the game,”
said Rams general manager Les Snead after selecting Austin. This statement underscores the Rams’ belief in Austin’s potential to make a significant impact on their team, a belief fueled by his impressive college highlights.
Tavon austin college highlights – Tavon Austin’s college highlights at West Virginia were electric, showcasing his blazing speed and dynamic playmaking ability. He was a true game-changer, leaving defenders in the dust with his electrifying runs and acrobatic catches. While his NFL career didn’t quite match his college success, it’s still interesting to see how his earnings have stacked up over the years.
You can find a breakdown of his career earnings here , but his impact on the field during his time at West Virginia is undeniable.
Tavon Austin’s college highlights at West Virginia showcased his electrifying speed and agility, leaving defenders in his dust. After being drafted by the Rams, he eventually found himself in Dallas, a change of scenery that saw him play for the tavon austin cowboys.
His college days, however, remain etched in the memories of many, reminding everyone of the explosive potential he displayed on the field.
