AJC > Sports > Columnists > Archives > 2006 > November > 05 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USJohnson’s stock never higher
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Jeff Schultz
Raleigh — If this goes down as a special year for Georgia Tech’s football program, it will be less because of any one game as it will be because of one player.
That’s something that would be difficult for any coach to say. Football is a team game, they say. One missed block, one blown assignment, everybody looks bad.
But a question: Where would Georgia Tech be without Calvin Johnson?
The junior receiver, likely never to be a senior receiver, caught two more touchdown passes Saturday night and covered 168 yards with his nine receptions. Tech won 31-23. The Jackets (7-2) already have equaled Chan Gailey’s win total in any of his previous four seasons, and they still have as many as five games remaining, including a possible ACC title game and an Orange Bowl.
If it all doesn’t amount to a goodbye present from Johnson, it would be a miracle.
Pro scouts are not permitted to comment on college underclassmen. But one NFL scout attending Saturday’s game said of Johnson, “As I see it, he’ll be the top player taken [in the draft] if he comes out.” When asked if there was any reason to believe Johnson won’t turn pro after this season, the scout said: “There’s always the chance he won’t. But he’d be stupid not to [come out]. His stock will never be higher. You see him on the field. They triple-cover him sometimes and it doesn’t matter. They double him and he still goes up and scores a touchdown.
“I haven’t seen anybody like him, ever. You don’t see guys who are that big and that fast. He’s a 6-5 receiver. He’s a freak.”
This Tech season can be remembered for a number of things before it’s over. But consider the impact of a Yellow Jackets wide receiver being taken first overall in the NFL draft. Programs are defined in part by the players they produce.
Every Calvin Johnson catch on ESPN is a free advertisement for Georgia Tech. So will every catch he makes in the NFL. Great players want to follow the paths of other great players.
When told of a scout’s comment that he could go first in the draft, Johnson laughed, then paused before responding.
“I’m not even going to think about that until the season’s over,” he said. “We’ve got potentially five more games, so I’ve got some time.
“It feels good that people see you and like what they’re doing.”
Johnson was informed by media members he already had broken or tied school touchdown records (his 24 tie Kelly Campbell’s school career mark, and his junior season isn’t nearly complete). He didn’t seem fazed. But when somebody was handing out stat sheets in the interview room, Johnson asked for one. Why?
“Hey, everybody’s talking about what happened,” he said. “I wanted to see it, too.”
Tech has produced its share of NFL players. Running back Eddie Lee Ivery often is mentioned as the best. Maxie Baughan and Larry Morris, college centers who played linebacker in the NFL, also are mentioned.
Johnson can surpass them all. His first touchdown against N.C. State, a 25-yarder from Reggie Ball, saw him sandwiched between two defenders but leap high near the goal line to make a catch where only a 6-foot-5 “freak” could make it.
He continued to leave scorched bodies in the secondary. Later in the first, he had an 18-yard reception down the left sideline, then a few plays later simply blew past everyone in the State secondary to cradle a Ball pass for a 43-yard score (his 11th of the season, a school record).
The Jackets almost blew this one. They had leads of 14-3 and 21-13, only to fall behind 23-21. But in the fourth, the game’s most harassed player made catches on consecutive scoring drives. A 10-yarder at the Wolfpack 9 set up the go-ahead chip shot field goal. A 33-yarder at the 8 set up a touchdown pass to James Johnson and a 31-23 final.
“He forces defenses to do things that they don’t normally do,” Gailey said. “They were playing some unusual coverages that they had not shown all year. We semi-expect it now.”
For possibly five more games, he is Georgia Tech’s gift. Enjoy him while you can. Then get set to enjoy the ripple effect.
Permalink | Comments (48) | Post your comment | Categories: Jeff Schultz, Tech / ACC
Comments
By Beestie
November 5, 2006 01:31 AM | Link to this
He will be known as the “Mark Price/John Sally” of our football program. It has already started as our recruiting class demonstrates. I hope he goes pro - he’s done more than enough for us.
By MisterT
November 5, 2006 05:21 AM | Link to this
It’s not a given that he is gone. Mama said he was going to stay all four years. However, mama is a teacher that could retire on a small fraction of the signing bonus her son could receive for being a top 5 pick.
By Raul
November 5, 2006 05:48 AM | Link to this
I Know that like Cremins’ basketball camp for the NBA, Calvin will enter the draft and rightfully earn his millions in the NFL. I also know that he will anounce his return to finish his degree, Like John Sally did and as many other Tech athletes do because he realizes the importance of a Tech degree——thats the biggest difference between us and that toilet paper degree they hand out to anyone passing through Athens
By billy g
November 5, 2006 07:03 AM | Link to this
I respect his mother’s desire for him to finish college. I am sure that Calvin will seriously consider staying. But, in the end, the risks far outweigh the benefits.
Calvin seems to have a good head on his shoulders. He is one guy that I believe will eventually get his degree…….but first go pro.
By Brad Stephens
November 5, 2006 07:27 AM | Link to this
C’mon Raul. I was getting on here to say something nice about Tech (I’m glad someone in football is representing our state well this year, since my beloved Dawgs are certainly not) A Tech degree is something to be prized, no doubt, but my “toilet paper degree” has done quite well for me in my endeavors. A degree by itself from either school is about as worthless as a piece of toilet paper. What you do with it and how you represent it afterwards it what counts.
Good luck to the Jackets (except in Athens)
By sam
November 5, 2006 07:36 AM | Link to this
I know a college degree is important and the college experance is also important. Calvin the risk has to equal the reward, next year will be marked by three people and the possiblity of being hurt increases. Do the wise choice finish your degree at twenty-six is not a bad thing. You have tech back on the map. Thank you . Help mom and dad
By Jim O
November 5, 2006 07:47 AM | Link to this
Calvin, we love ya and will miss you next year - but all tech fans are going to enjoy watching you on sundays!
ps - you need to thank reggie for not being too accurate, otherwise those spectacular catches you always make would be normal ones!
By bajbuzz
November 5, 2006 07:53 AM | Link to this
My 7 year old’s favorite player is, of course, #21. I don’t think he could have picked a better role model, for his actions on and off the field. It is refreshing to see a player of this caliber also be a man of integrity. I certainly hope he stays, but if not then I know I won’t be the only one in Tech nation to say “thank you” and wish him well.
By mike
November 5, 2006 08:28 AM | Link to this
Seriously, the #21 jersey is the most popular shirt to wear at a Tech game. Almost every kid and a lot of adults have one. Thanks Calvin.
By Ron
November 5, 2006 08:50 AM | Link to this
Thank you Calvin for all that you have done for GT. It would be beyond selfish for any of us to expect you to not turn pro. You are a breath of fresh air as a young man and someone who I would gladly have as a role model for my kids. It’s gonna be fun watching a fine ambassador for GT torching NFL secondaries next year and beyond.
By Not Disappointed!!
November 5, 2006 09:06 AM | Link to this
Calvin, the selfish side of me wants you to stay. “I cried win Joe Hamilton Graduated.” It’s a good feeling.
Thank you Calvin for being not just a good player, but a wonderful person as well.
Now, go get your MONEY!!!
God Bless the Jacket Nation and Fans!!
By jsleazy
November 5, 2006 09:27 AM | Link to this
I just have a hard time finding a reason for him to come back next year other than to get his degree, which would be commendable. But in reality, this isn’t a Matt Leinart situtation were he has a chance at Natl Chmpshp/Dynasty status if does return. He has just been unreal this year, especially with Ball at QB. Kudos to the coaching staff for recognizing he the best individual player in college football this year and finally utilizing his gifts. I think its a wrap that he gone, and I will be on his wagon from Day 1. Good stuff Calvin.
By jackets fan
November 5, 2006 09:32 AM | Link to this
Would all GT fans love to have CJ return next season? Of course. But I think we all understand what a rare talent he is, and it would be selfish for us to ask him to stay and risk such a promising NFL career. Sure he has injury insurance, but he has nothing more to prove on The Flats. And like Matt Leinart, he could potentially drop in his draft potential if he hangs around another year. Leinart would have been the #1 pick two years ago, instead of Alex Smith. Instead he came back, had just as goo a season, but allowed other guys like Reggie Bush to pass him on the talent hierarchy. While it would be hard to find a physical talent better than CJ, I say don’t take a chance. Hey, we all might get lucky and the Falcons trade up for the #1 pick to get him. Then we’d get to see him every week, and he could continue his degree right here in Atlanta. Somebody should start an “arthurdraftcalvin.com” website.
By WFC
November 5, 2006 09:39 AM | Link to this
I’m not a pro-football fan but I guarantee you that I’ll instantly become a fan of whatever team Calvin Johnson plays for.
By gtne80
November 5, 2006 10:17 AM | Link to this
Don’t go Calvin! Honor your mother’s wishes to get that Tech degree. We’d love to see you at the Heisman ceremonies at the end of next year.
Just kidding….take the money son. Go with the collective blessings of the Jacket nation. You’ve been a joy to watch. Thanks for coming our way.
By gtne80
November 5, 2006 10:44 AM | Link to this
By the way, for any of you talented HS prospects, take a cue from Calvin’s experience. Go to UGA and you get lost in that morasse of madness. Come to Tech and you get highlighted on ESPN on Thursday nights, adored by fans, and treated with class.
By Vince Dooley
November 5, 2006 11:05 AM | Link to this
Calivn, Thank Goodness you did not go to UGA, now you have a great education, great character and are on a good team. Keep up the good work you are one of the best players I ever seen but further more you are a better person.
A Fan Vince Dooley
By Ramble on!
November 5, 2006 11:40 AM | Link to this
He’s coming back…GT will be to college football, what Duke is to college basketball.
By gary
November 5, 2006 11:49 AM | Link to this
Calvin Johnson is a breath of fresh air, not only in the athletic arena, but also in the most important arena of all. LIFE. Mr. and Mrs Johnson should be very proud of their son’s accomplishments, on and off the field. Congratulations for doing such a fine job of parenting.PEACE !!!!!
By Tech fan
November 5, 2006 12:23 PM | Link to this
To the NFL scout commenting on Calvin and the draft…don’t ever mention Calvin Johnson and ‘stupid’ in the same sentence again!
By keithinwr
November 5, 2006 12:30 PM | Link to this
has anyone considered that we will have a couple of QB’s in camp next spring that have more talent than RB and more height to see an open receiver, and Calvin may want to go through spring practice to see if he would have an even more prolific Senior season before he decides anything?
By Mark
November 5, 2006 12:36 PM | Link to this
DEAR MR. BLANK,
Do whatever you have to to get CALVIN JOHNSON for M.Vick to throw to next year. If the “freak” cant catch it noone can. It will be a guaranteed seat filler with Vick to Johnson, all day long.
Go Gettem CJ #21
Go Jackets
By PCooper
November 5, 2006 12:46 PM | Link to this
He’s got his $3 mil insurance policy. His mom just got her PhD. And he has been quoted numerous times this season to say that he “came to Tech for a degree.”
Call me crazy, but I think he may just stay around one more year. I know I’d want one more shot at the Heisman.
By Geechee
November 5, 2006 12:48 PM | Link to this
CALVIN is a very special talent. AND he has a solid team to support him. REGGIE with 4 TD passes, CHOICE 164 yds rushing, COX is awesome, JAMES J. gets the job done, Solid offense / defense and good coaching. (We may need to address the “special teams”). This tean is a lotta fun!
By Richard
November 5, 2006 01:39 PM | Link to this
Jarrett Jack’s mom also said he’d stay for four years. If this turns out to be CJ’s last season in the white and gold I’ll only have this to say to #21:
So long, good luck, and thanks for the memories.
By robber
November 5, 2006 02:15 PM | Link to this
He’s the best I’ll ever watch catch a ball in person. As a kid, I used to watch Lynn Swann and John Stallworth win rings, and I still think Johnson will be better. And if the Steelers keep losing, it could be Johnson playing in the black steel on Sundays.
By Thank you Calvin
November 5, 2006 02:55 PM | Link to this
Calvin will join the NFL next year, and rightfully so. He has definitely earned that right. Thank you Calvin for choosing GT back in 2004. Of the 24 four recruits that year, he was one of only 4 guys rated with 3 stars or higher. He was the only four star guy. At the time, that took some faith, confidence, and foresight to choose GT when DAWGNATION was at it’s peak. Funny how DAWGNATION fans said CJ had made a huge mistake….
By Fred Preddy
November 5, 2006 03:21 PM | Link to this
HIYA MY JACKETS ——and Calvin: This is a “complete the loop” scenario.Tech’s team is having/will have a super year. Our recruiting is bright for the near future. Many GT players will be much the better for choosing Tech. Our coaches will all reap dividends and elevated self esteem. The entire “Institute” will realize a winner’s synergy. And, Calvin—-Calvin will be back at Tech for years ‘n years——as an All-Pro AND a Tech GRADUATE!WOW—-I was sold on Tech in ‘53 and now, THANKS CALVIN & TEAM!!! Fred Preddy Blowing Rock, NC IM ‘59
By Hedgeprunner
November 5, 2006 04:43 PM | Link to this
CALVIN JOHNSON, The greatest hands ever in college football, we will all understand if you leave after this season, but we would love to see you hang around 1 more season to break all the NCAA records.CJ you are a humble kid and I wish more of the collegate players played with that same attitude, your influence will be felt for years to come.Thanks for showing the public you can have talent and class too, CJ lets hang one on the mutts in 3 weeks and turn that series around once again, I have my pruners ready to tear down those damn ugly hedges! To Hell With Georgia..go TECH
By Najeh Davenpoop
November 5, 2006 04:50 PM | Link to this
After seeing the NINE dropped passes the Falcons’ receivers had today, can we please find a way to trade up and get Calvin? Please?
By mikefino777
November 5, 2006 05:03 PM | Link to this
Calvin,,I’ll be a huge fan whatever YOU decide,,and if you go pro then i’m rooting for whatever team is lucky enough to get you,,except Dallas of,course,but that goes without saying
By Ramblin' Gator
November 5, 2006 05:06 PM | Link to this
Calvin is the best posession receiver I’ve ever seen play football at any level - EVER!! We will miss him next year, but we can’t expect him to stay with an inexperienced quarterback starting at GT next year and a top NFL pick waiting for him at the end of this year. CJ, thanks for putting our program back on the map and keep on winning, though Athens, Jacksonville, and Miami!! If I’m right, you will be the #1 pick in the draft.
By Thank you CJ
November 5, 2006 05:23 PM | Link to this
Thank you Calvin Johson for putting the GaTech football program on the map. I would love for you to stay next year…maybe get more recognition for the Heisman- like i still think you deserve this year. But either way, thank you for gracing the campus at GaTech! You are truly an Amazingly gifted athlete and are humble to boot.
By VAN-24 UGA-22
November 5, 2006 07:48 PM | Link to this
You deserve the money….Go get it.
By surfrider
November 5, 2006 09:41 PM | Link to this
It makes a fan wander how good Johnson could have been with Hamilton, Godsey or Jones at QB and Friedgen as offensive coordinator. Before we get to giddy (no question this is turning into a good season), let’s remeber our division is well off this year particularly compared to other division. It won’t take long for Miami, FSU, VT, UNC and possibly UVA to start bouncing back big time. So let’s enjoy it while it lasts.
By The Chief
November 5, 2006 09:55 PM | Link to this
Memo to the Falcons: Calvin Johnson. Vick needs him.
By Jake
November 6, 2006 12:55 AM | Link to this
I knew that day in September against Clemson two years ago CJ was going to be special. He has exceeded my wildest dreams. Whatever you choose, I’ll back you. Thanks for the memories Calvin, you will be missed.
Anyone else think we should retire # 21? About to set the school record receiving in only 3 years. The best receiver this school has ever seen.
By Drexel Gal
November 6, 2006 03:01 AM | Link to this
I have very bad feelings. I remember Ernie Davis. Ernie Davis became the first player of color to earn the Heisman Trophy. His signing by the (original) Cleveland Browns was big news. Tragically, he died of leukemia before ever playing an NFL game. I feel that something bad will happen before our beloved Number-21 plays on Sundays.
By HARDCORE-TECH FAN
November 6, 2006 03:38 AM | Link to this
“Drexel Gal” is the gayest person to ever exist 4 writing that!!!! You talkin about you havin real bad feelings, well I have a pretty good feeling you’re into women just as much as I am or any male who writes on this blog. I dont know how u could look in the mirror after saying something like that. Calvin is a blessing to tech and anyone he comes around. FOR GOD SAKE, HE BUILT SOLAR LATRINES FOR 3RD WORLD COUNTRIES OVER THE SUMMER! calvin has done more for GT than you and your “life partner” could ever think about doing! so go somewhere with your negativity and get off the man’s nuts…. you shouldnt have a hard time gettin’ that doin anyway since we all know nuts arent your forte, miss “Drexel gal!”
O- and Wat up Montoya if u see this!
By MastersJackets
November 6, 2006 08:05 AM | Link to this
I have an idea. Let’s leave this 20 year old alone until the season is over and then start pestering him about whether he will stay or not. The one reason he might stay is, at least in college, he has some protection from the parasites that think just because he is a great athletic talent they have a right to bohter him until he gives an answer they are wanting.
Calvin, make the decision based on your heart’s desire - consider your parents’ desires, but go with yours. Once you make the decision - whatever you decide - always go forward and don’t second guess yourself and don’t listen to other people telling you what they think you should have done.
By yellowblood
November 6, 2006 08:13 AM | Link to this
Calvin should go pro. As much as I want to see him at Tech next year, I would feel horrible and selfish if he were injured (example: Anthony Waters of Clemson). What a terrific Tech ambassador he has been. When Chan says ” He’s a better person than he is a player” I am grateful to have him at my school. Calvin tells us all that we can bring stars to Tech.
By SRF
November 6, 2006 08:59 AM | Link to this
Calvin - you deserve the money - go pro and take the classes in the off-season to finish. Thanks and enjoy your Sundays.
By Wrecker 1
November 6, 2006 09:40 AM | Link to this
Now a days you can’t blame a guy for leaving early to get the money, especially if he’s finished about 3 years of school and his degree is in sight. You know I think Calvin may suprise us all and stay around. He really seems to be enjoying what he’s doing and to him and his parents this isn’t just a stopping off place on the way to fame and fortune. He may pull a Matt Leinart/Tim Duncan (and a few others) and stay in college b/c he enjoys it and it will put him that much closer to his degree. Regarding retiring his number: not a bad idea if he stays around next year and makes All American again and wins some individual awards. I also believe that TECH stipulates a player must have earned his degree to have his number retired. Randy Rhino made All American 3 times and his number isn’t retired. You must realize the only number TECH has retired in football belonged to Clint Castleberry who was killed in WW II. That’s a tough act to follow.
By Valerie
November 6, 2006 10:02 AM | Link to this
Thank you Calvin for a great year and yes I hope you come back but if you dont, come back and get your degree to finish it in between time like old Joe is. That is important. I think you deserved be up higher in the Heisman vote. We got ripped off when Joe didnt get it.
By Gladys
November 6, 2006 10:03 AM | Link to this
I know you don’t mean it, but please do use the word “freak” or “stupid” when you are talking about Calvin Johnson. He is talented and very smart!
By John
November 6, 2006 09:38 PM | Link to this
Tech fans, rumor has it, he has $3 million insurance package for him, as long as he is in the NCAA’s. That could take care of him and his family. Stay one more year, get your jersey retired, and help build this program.
By Chris
November 6, 2006 10:06 PM | Link to this
Jeff Schultz still think UGA is a 10-2 team? Well is Tech still a 7-5 team? Well, your record on picking UGA’s W’s-L’s is 7-3 right now and will be 8-4 after Tech beats UGA but that will be better than uga game record. Is Tech still 7-5? Right now your record is 5-4 on picking Tech games and you are going to end at 7-5 now how does that feel?
By Drexel Gal
November 7, 2006 01:48 AM | Link to this
Chan has won his seven games for this season. He can step aside and let the team win the rest. If John Tenuta doesn’t burst an artery, and Patrick Nix remembers that Calvin Johnson is still on the team. (Remember third-and-eleven against Notre Dame and he called for a RUN!)