In basketball, we often talk about players having a high basketball IQ. The term is not used in football much, but if it were, then Shaq Washington would be in the "genius" category. It has been a pleasure watching Shaq develop over the past four years. He is as good a "possession" receiver as UC has ever had, probably up there with Dominic Goodman, Ladaris Vann and going way back to Tom Rossley in 1968. Shaq's play last night was sensational, including 8 receptions and an amazing over the shoulder catch on a ball on which he was double covered, resulting in a next play UC touchdown. His punt return in the first quarter was a thing of beauty, demonstrating his ability to be patient, follow blockers, stop and go using his ability to "see the field" and use deception. Shaq may be too small to play in the NFL, but his tenure at UC will be long remembered. He seems to love playing the game of football and it shows. I am hoping that he earns All Conference recognition this year and predicting that he will end up as UC's all-time leading receiver.

(10-02-2015 05:02 PM)vabearcat Wrote:  In basketball, we often talk about players having a high basketball IQ. The term is not used in football much, but if it were, then Shaq Washington would be in the "genius" category. It has been a pleasure watching Shaq develop over the past four years. He is as good a "possession" receiver as UC has ever had, probably up there with Dominic Goodman, Ladaris Vann and going way back to Tom Rossley in 1968. Shaq's play last night was sensational, including 8 receptions and an amazing over the shoulder catch on a ball on which he was double covered, resulting in a next play UC touchdown. His punt return in the first quarter was a thing of beauty, demonstrating his ability to be patient, follow blockers, stop and go using his ability to "see the field" and use deception. Shaq may be too small to play in the NFL, but his tenure at UC will be long remembered. He seems to love playing the game of football and it shows. I am hoping that he earns All Conference recognition this year and predicting that he will end up as UC's all-time leading receiver.

Shaq is 21 catches from the all-time record. At his his current pace he will accomplish this in three more games.

If 5'8 Cole Beasley can find a home, Shaq at least has the opportunity to prove himself.

There were reportedly at least 10 NFL scouts at last night's game so I'm pretty sure Shaq is going to get a full evaluation before the draft comes around. Having done no research on it, if I had to guess, I think he's looking at being a late rounder or free agent. I could see him spending some time on a practice squad before getting his chance on the full roster and in games. From there who knows, but I could see him having an impact in the NFL if he gets the chance with the right organization ala Baby Hawk (5'7") for example.

One thing I'd like to see Tubs/Gran do though is to try some wide rushing plays with Shaq to mix things up and to get him a chance to make people miss in space. And sometime when we really need it, have him pass it (he was a QB in HS).

One of my favorite players in Bearcat history across all sports.

(10-02-2015 08:45 PM)Bearhawkeye Wrote:  There were reportedly at least 10 NFL scouts at last night's game so I'm pretty sure Shaq is going to get a full evaluation before the draft comes around. Having done no research on it, if I had to guess, I think he's looking at being a late rounder or free agent. I could see him spending some time on a practice squad before getting his chance on the full roster and in games. From there who knows, but I could see him having an impact in the NFL if he gets the chance with the right organization ala Baby Hawk (5'7") for example.

One thing I'd like to see Tubs/Gran do though is to try some wide rushing plays with Shaq to mix things up and to get him a chance to make people miss in space. And sometime when we really need it, have him pass it (he was a QB in HS).

Great point. Without Boone we have no outside run game. Getting shaq involved on jet sweeps or even just faking it a few times would give defenses a lot more to think about and defend. He's pretty elusive in space so a couple runs a game would open up the offense a bit.

I've loved seeing Shaq's progression from Maple Heights in the state finals. He's been a great Bearcat.

His physical talents probably won't grade out well with the scouts. But he has good change of direction, and he seems to read coverage schemes well, which might be the most important attribute for a slot receiver in the NFL today.

While we are on the topic of short men that win big football games, Levi Payne. That coaching staff is asking a lot of him, and he seems willing to accept any challenge.

Much respect to Leviticus and Shaquille, two great names that make great plays. Bearcat pride!

(10-02-2015 05:02 PM)vabearcat Wrote:  Shaq may be too small to play in the NFL, but his tenure at UC will be long remembered. He seems to love playing the game of football and it shows.

I wouldn't bet against him based on his size. Love the kid and his talent, smarts, desire, consistency and reliability that he has displayed during his UC career. I think he is one of those players that scouts will say he may not light up the 40 yard dash or the standing broad jump (worthless ability IMO) but when you put the tape on the results speak for themselves. He is a football player with heart plain and simple. Similar to hawk, I believe he will be a late rounder in the draft or a team will pick him up as a free agent. He will have a decent shot at making the 53 man roster for someone. If not, there is always Canada...