Have you noticed that the media, Off the Hook Sports included, is focused on creating lists? During the off-season when there is very little to report, content is scarce and lists are the perfect way to get fans excited for college football. Whether they include teams, coaches, or individual players, ranking anything from 1 to 10 garners a lot of attention.
There’s only one thing that draws more attention from a fanbase: leaving out a player that clearly belongs.
Did you notice anything? No Cedric Tillman. There are only three possibilities for this oversight: the Tennessee receiver fell through the digital cracks, Pro Football Focus doesn’t see Tillman as a potential NFL standout, or upsetting an entire fanbase will give you more clicks, comments, and exposure. Nevertheless, Tillman was 31st in the nation in receiving yards per game (83.2 yards) last season despite playing for an offense that was trying to find its identity, along with a competent quarterback, to start the season.
No matter. If everything goes to plan, Tillman will be one of the top 10 receivers in the nation following the 2022 season. He’ll also be a strong NFL prospect given his ability to drive defenders off the ball, turn, come back to the ball, make the catch and, lastly, challenge any would-be tackler. That’s something that any quarterback in the NFL would love.
However, the NFL can wait. Tillman is a senior this season and enjoying the fruits of his labor that were almost dashed. Before Josh Heupel took over as Tennessee’s head coach, there had been discussions about about moving Tillman to tight end. That would have been a bad move.
Need proof? Tillman was recently named second-team All-SEC at SEC Media Days:
