Tavon Austin’s College Career at West Virginia: Tavon Austin College Highlights
Tavon Austin’s time at West Virginia University was a whirlwind of electrifying plays and record-breaking performances. He arrived on campus as a highly-touted recruit and quickly established himself as one of the most dynamic offensive weapons in college football. His versatility, explosiveness, and playmaking ability made him a nightmare for opposing defenses.
Austin’s Statistical Dominance
Austin’s statistics speak volumes about his impact on the Mountaineers’ offense. He amassed over 3,000 receiving yards and 30 touchdowns during his three seasons in Morgantown. He was also a prolific returner, averaging over 15 yards per punt return and 28 yards per kickoff return. His career highlights include:
- In 2011, he set a single-season record for all-purpose yards by a West Virginia player, accumulating 2,257 yards.
- He also became the first player in NCAA history to score a touchdown on a punt return, kickoff return, and receiving touchdown in the same game.
Austin’s Versatility and Impact
Austin’s impact extended far beyond his impressive statistics. His ability to play both wide receiver and return specialist made him a unique and valuable asset to the Mountaineers. As a receiver, he was known for his quickness, agility, and ability to make defenders miss. His speed and elusiveness made him a threat to score from anywhere on the field. As a returner, he was a game-changer, capable of taking any return to the house.
Austin’s Growth and Development
Austin’s performance throughout his collegiate career showed significant growth and development. He arrived at West Virginia as a talented but raw prospect. However, with hard work and dedication, he transformed into one of the most exciting players in the country. His ability to improve his route running, blocking, and overall football IQ helped him become a more complete player.
Austin’s Contributions to West Virginia’s Success
Austin’s contributions were instrumental in West Virginia’s success during his time there. His electrifying plays helped the Mountaineers win multiple games and reach the 2012 Orange Bowl. He was a true game-breaker who could change the course of a game with a single play. His presence on the field instilled fear in opposing defenses, forcing them to adjust their game plans to contain him.
Notable Highlights and Performances
Tavon Austin’s college career was filled with electrifying plays that showcased his remarkable athleticism and versatility. His ability to make game-changing plays in both the running and passing game made him one of the most exciting players in college football.
Top 5 Plays
Austin’s highlight reel is packed with incredible plays, but these five stand out as some of the most memorable and impactful of his career.
Play | Description | Game Situation | Significance |
---|---|---|---|
85-yard punt return touchdown vs. Baylor (2012) | Austin fielded a punt at his own 15-yard line, broke multiple tackles, and raced down the sideline for a touchdown. | West Virginia trailed 21-14 in the third quarter. | This play sparked a West Virginia comeback and helped them win the game 48-45. It was one of Austin’s most impressive displays of speed and agility. |
71-yard touchdown reception vs. Texas (2012) | Austin caught a short pass from Geno Smith and broke several tackles en route to a 71-yard touchdown. | West Virginia trailed 21-14 in the second quarter. | This play gave West Virginia the lead and helped them win the game 48-45. It showcased Austin’s explosiveness and ability to make big plays in the passing game. |
98-yard kickoff return touchdown vs. Oklahoma State (2011) | Austin caught a kickoff at his own 2-yard line, made a cutback, and raced 98 yards for a touchdown. | West Virginia trailed 14-0 in the first quarter. | This play gave West Virginia their first points of the game and helped them rally for a 33-23 victory. It was a highlight of Austin’s freshman season. |
66-yard touchdown reception vs. Texas Tech (2012) | Austin caught a pass from Geno Smith and ran through a defender for a 66-yard touchdown. | West Virginia trailed 21-14 in the third quarter. | This play helped West Virginia take the lead and eventually win the game 49-28. It demonstrated Austin’s power and ability to break tackles in the open field. |
80-yard touchdown reception vs. Baylor (2012) | Austin caught a pass from Geno Smith and broke several tackles on his way to an 80-yard touchdown. | West Virginia trailed 21-14 in the third quarter. | This play gave West Virginia the lead and helped them win the game 48-45. It showcased Austin’s ability to make big plays in the passing game and his exceptional speed. |
Impact on Austin’s Legacy and Draft Stock
Austin’s highlight reel helped solidify his status as one of the most exciting players in college football and significantly boosted his draft stock. His explosive plays and versatility made him a highly sought-after prospect by NFL teams. His performance at the 2013 NFL Combine, where he recorded a 4.28-second 40-yard dash, further cemented his status as a top prospect. His ability to contribute in both the running and passing game made him a valuable asset for any NFL team.
Timeline of Significant Performances
- 2011: Austin burst onto the scene as a freshman, showcasing his electrifying speed and playmaking ability. He had a 98-yard kickoff return touchdown against Oklahoma State, proving his ability to make big plays on special teams. He also had a 51-yard touchdown reception against Baylor, demonstrating his ability to make big plays in the passing game.
- 2012: Austin’s sophomore season was a breakout year. He led the nation in all-purpose yards and set the single-season school record for receiving yards. He had several memorable performances, including a 71-yard touchdown reception against Texas, a 66-yard touchdown reception against Texas Tech, and a 85-yard punt return touchdown against Baylor.
- 2013: Austin’s junior season was cut short due to injury. However, he still managed to have some impressive performances, including a 65-yard touchdown reception against Oklahoma State.
Impact on West Virginia Football
Tavon Austin’s impact on the West Virginia Mountaineers football program was undeniable. His electrifying speed, versatility, and playmaking ability transformed the Mountaineers’ offense and special teams, making them a force to be reckoned with during his time in Morgantown.
Offensive Transformation
Austin’s arrival in 2011 coincided with the emergence of a high-powered offense that consistently ranked among the nation’s best. His ability to make big plays as a wide receiver, running back, and return specialist created matchup nightmares for opposing defenses. Austin’s presence opened up the field for other offensive weapons, allowing West Virginia to run a dynamic and unpredictable attack.
Special Teams Dominance, Tavon austin college highlights
Austin’s impact on special teams was equally significant. His game-breaking speed and elusiveness made him a threat to score every time he touched the ball on kick returns. His explosive returns consistently gave the Mountaineers great field position and often led to quick scores. Austin’s dominance in the return game was a major factor in West Virginia’s success during his tenure.
Increased Popularity and Visibility
Austin’s electrifying performances drew national attention to the West Virginia football program. His highlight reel plays became viral sensations, and he was consistently featured on national television broadcasts. Austin’s success helped to elevate the Mountaineers’ profile and attract new fans across the country.
Legacy and Recruiting Impact
Tavon Austin’s legacy at West Virginia extends beyond his on-field achievements. His success served as a beacon for future recruits, showcasing the potential for success and exposure that the program could offer. His impact on recruiting helped the Mountaineers attract some of the top talent in the country, ensuring the program’s continued competitiveness in the years to come.
Tavon austin college highlights – Tavon Austin’s college highlights were a blur of speed and agility, showcasing a talent that had scouts drooling. His electrifying returns and game-changing plays cemented his legacy as one of the most exciting players in college football. It’s no wonder that his name became synonymous with explosive athleticism, a legacy that extends beyond the gridiron.
To truly understand the impact of Tavon Austin, it’s essential to explore the story of tayvon austin , a young man who used his platform to advocate for social justice and inspire others. His college highlights, while impressive, were just a glimpse into the remarkable individual he was, both on and off the field.
Tavon Austin’s college highlights were electrifying, showcasing his explosive speed and agility. His electrifying performances caught the eye of NFL scouts, making him a hot commodity in the 2013 NFL Draft. The draft was a pivotal moment for Austin, as he was selected eighth overall by the St.
Louis Rams, setting the stage for his professional journey.