Wideout performance has largely mirrored the program as a whole under Tedford. In the early years, players at the position made up for slightly less natural talent with intangibles and toughness. Then DeSean Jackson's recruitment and three seasons highlighted the peak of the Tedford era. In recent years, there is still plenty of ability, but the performance has been much more inconsistent post-Longshore ankle.
Jonathan Makonnen and Geoff McArthur were the top guys in Tedford's early years. Makonnen led the team in receiving yards in 2002, but his trip in the west end zone at the LA Coliseum will forever haunt his legacy in my eyes. McArthur was a model of consistency, as long as he was healthy. His big performance (16 rec, 245 yds) in the 2003 Big Game was one of his defining moments. Chase Lyman would have also deserved top 4 discussion if not for his injuries. This early crew also had the benefit of strong role players like Burl Toler and Vinnie Strang. Of course, everyone looks better when Aaron Rodgers is throwing them the ball.
DeSean, Lavelle Hawkins and Robert Jordan were standouts in the next generation. Jordan is probably the weakest link in this group, but his numbers were always pretty good. DeSean was an NFL player in a college uniform.
Post-DeSean has been slim pickings, when laughably, in 2008 Nyan Boateng actually led the team in receiving. Marvin Jones and Verran Tucker turned in decent careers, but no defining moments. Keenan Allen may be the most talented other than DeSean, but his story is still being written.
Backup 2: Lavelle Hawkins -- The Hawk could get down the field as well as anyone, but also did intangibles such as blocking downfield quietly well.
Backup 1: Keenan Allen -- Big play potential whenever he touches it would be a luxury as a third option.
WR 2: Geoff McArthur -- Career didn't pan out after leaving Strawberry Canyon, but his Cal credentials are undoubtedly great.
WR 1: DeSean Jackson -- Cal was a means to an end for him, but that doesn't diminish anything he did.
I think by the time this season is over, we'll all be saying that Keenan Allen is one of the all-time best Cal receivers. I see him jumping ahead of Geoff into that #2 spot beside D-Jax. I would only give the edge to D-Jax due to his punt return ability.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad Hawkins made the list, he is definitely one of my favorite receivers of the Tedford era. It was fun doing the "Hawk" chant with the awkward arm movements whenever he scored a touchdown.
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