Pryor Knowledge
The biggest difference between high school football and college football is the speed of the game. The most important difference is the impact one player can have on the outcome of any given kickoff.
A physical specimen like 6'6" 235 pound quarterback Terrelle Pryor could win games, if not single handedly, then close to it while in Jeannette, PA. The reality in Columbus, Ohio is very different.
Pryor has yet to learn that lesson. That's why he fumbled when ad-libbing Saturday against Penn State, deciding to run it outside on a called quarterback sneak that was meant to go up the middle.
That's why after the game, when Pryor was decimated by the loss, he mourned the performance...alone on the sidelines.
That's also why he blamed himself for the loss. The truth is, as receiver Brian Robiskie pointed out, "It's a team thing."
It's a very difficult line to walk. Players must hold themselves personally accountable. They must realize they have the ability to make a difference. They also must recognize that they are a part of a larger whole.
I think former Buckeye signal caller Troy Smith walked this line very well. He worked hard. His teammates also worked hard, because they sensed Troy believed them to be an important part of his success.
In all fairness, it was easier for Troy. He didn't come in with all the hype and expectations. At most, he was expected to backup Justin Zwick. He also wasn't a freshman trying to be a leader on a senior laden team.
But Pryor has something going for him that not even Smith did. Pryor's desire to learn is unmatched. There are many stories about him coming to Columbus and grilling the coaching staff about the playbook. He said he hung out with the seniors trying to absorb what they know. Even after interviews, he asks the school's sports information director how he did and what he can do better.
Involving his teammates more is something he can do better, something he undoubtedly will do better as he matures.
posted by Lori @ 4:47 PM
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