Wasted opportunities
Published: 10/9/2007 10:14 AM
Last Modified: 10/9/2007 10:14 AM
The comparisons have been thrown out there. OSU's Triplets version 3.0 of quarterback Bobby Reid (and now Zac Robinson), running back Dantrell Savage and wide receiver Adarius Bowman were the focal points of this year's OSU offense and team. They were expected to add to the legacy of their Triplets predecessors.
Much like the Triplets version 1.0 of QB Mike Gundy, RBs Thurman Thomas and WR Hart Lee Dykes in 1987 and version 1.1 of Gundy, Barry Sanders and Dykes in 1988, and version 2.0 of QB Josh Fields, RB Tatum Bell and WR Rashaun Woods in 2002 and 2003, Triplets version 3.0 would have big plays on a weekly basis and lead OSU to great heights.
The QB situation this year has been in flux all year, but has not been much of a detriment. Savage was hurt early in the early, but has been big-time the past three weeks. Bowman has not had a Kansas-type game like he did last year. But AD has been a more consistent performer on a weekly basis this year.
Savage and Bowman will both be contributing on NFL rosters at this time next year. They are not better than their predecessors from Triplets version 1.0 or 1.1, but I'll go ahead and say they are better than the Bell-Woods combo from version 2.0. Agree or disagree? You tell me.
Yet, even with these two special talents, OSU is just 3-3 and its season is on the rocks. The two could pick up this team by its boot straps and carry it to a winning record the next six weeks. If that does not happen, it would be a shame.
As good as their respective heir apparent, RB Kendall Hunter and WR Dez Bryant, appear to be, OSU may not realize how truly special Savage and Bowman are. Talk about your wasted opportunities.
--- Matt Doyle
Written by
Bill Haisten
Sports Writer
