Texas Tech University Athletics
True Freshman Steps Up
November 03, 2007 | Football
Nov. 3, 2007
By Grant Vandever, Texas Tech Media Relations
When the season began, Aaron Crawford was third on the depth chart and was considered a possible redshirt candidate. After all, the Red Raiders returned their starting tailback and back-up Kolby Lewis had a great spring. Fast-forward to November 3rd as Crawford picked up his second start of his career. He did not let it go to waste in Texas Tech's 38-7 victory over Baylor.
Despite entering the game with only 21 rushes for 89 yards and no TDs in four games this season, Crawford ran like a seasoned veteran, wracking up career highs in attempts, yards and touchdowns. Crawford finished the day with 44 yards on 9 carries and 2 TDs, to go along with leading the team with 10 catches for 82 yards and a TD. Crawford was able to keep the Baylor defense honest and not allow them to drop eight men into coverage.
"I basically just went out there and did my job. A lot of the credit goes to the offensive line. They really played well and threw a lot of great blocks. In this offense, your opportunity is going to come," says Crawford. "With as much as we move the ball and throw the ball, you are going to get a lot of touches. I was fortunate to play well today, but again, a lot of the credit goes to the offensive line and to Graham (Harrell) for calling my number"
According to the coaches, Crawford has earned his playing time on the practice field. After his first start last week against Colorado, Tech head coach Mike Leach complimented Crawford's work ethic.
"The biggest thing is that we feel that Aaron [Crawford] has been playing really well at practice. He is very explosive and driven, like when he blocks somebody and moves them," said Leach. "When he runs the ball, he is assertive and he makes a decision and reacts quick. We just think Aaron is practicing better and right now he is ahead of the pack. If he keeps going you'll probably see more of him."
Just as Leach said, we did see more of Crawford; a lot more. Crawford took the majority of the carries for Tech on Saturday. Throughout the afternoon, he displayed the balance of rushing and receiving needed in the wide-open Tech offense. If Crawford continues to work hard, Tech fans should be excited to see what the future holds for this true freshman.
