Touchdowns tend to top the reels of most running backs’ highlight films. And for good reasons: TDs fire up teams, create momentum, and change the scoreboard.
But they’re not the only plays that motivate and enthuse a sideline. And that was certainly on display following one of many tough runs by Florida State sophomore RB Jacques Patrick, who utilized every bit of his 6-2, 231-pound frame repeatedly against the South Florida Bulls on Saturday. Patrick was a brow-raising and defender-flattening complement to star running back Dalvin Cook against the Bulls, as he continually lowered his imposing shoulder to take on USF defenders en route to his second career game of 100+ rushing yards.
FSU coaches have consistently implored Patrick to run to his imposing size, and he certainly did that in Tampa, on one play in particular. Patrick galloped down the left sideline with a full head of steam, and instead of trying to evade a tackler, he decided to run him over instead.
Patrick also served notice, by pointing directly at the defender as he approached, a football version of a baseball player calling his shot. I wanted to know just what Patrick was thinking— so I asked him. He smiled, spoke about how it fired up his fellow ‘Noles, and he also implied that he may well do it again. Enjoy: