/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/35633624/20130921_lbm_bk2_439.0.jpg)
This morning, Shaq Washington was named to the 2014 Biletnikoff Award Preseason Watch List. This award is for receivers, which they define broadly as anyone who catches a pass.
Shaq snagged 78 receptions for 783 yards last year, second only to Anthony McClung. With McClung gone, you would think Shaq's productivity will go up dramatically. However, I see Shaq sitting right under 1,000 yards next year. With MeKale Mckay, RDA4, Chris Moore, Max Morrison, and Casey Gladney; There are just too many options in addition to Shaq for him to rack up big time numbers.
Here's an old interview of Shaq's from the back half of last season. He blew up for 123 yards at Rutgers and then 132 yards against Houston after the interview. Take home message - Somebody interview him everyday next season.
<object width="425" height="350" class="mceItemFlash"> <param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/jO__P65ez_U"></param> <param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param> <embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/jO__P65ez_U" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="350"></embed> </object>
University of Cincinnati leading receiver Shaq Washington (via Scott Springer)
The list will be narrowed down to 10 semifinalists on November 17, 2014. So, Shaq has to impress early and often to make that list. I think Shaq has the ability to be on the final ten, but with the weapons at Gunner's disposal I don't see Shaq getting enough action to have jaw dropping statistics. If he can throw up some big numbers against Ohio State and/or Miami (FL), that will grab some people's attention. The following week (11/24) the list will be narrowed to 3 with the winner announced December 11, 2014 at the Home Depot College Awards Show.
Congrats to a well deserving Shaq Washington. Work starts against Toledo (9/21/14). Get ready. Can't wait.
-Daniele "Da" Bologna