Literally. His name is Golden. And somewhat unfairly, his amazing season is being slightly over-looked due to mounting losses and speculation about Weis’ job security.
If ND was even decent, Golden Tate would still be (and frankly, still should be) in the Heisman race in a major way. As it is, he should still be invited to the ceremony.
I don’t remember a player at ND that has made such a huge impact, and has made so many amazing, highlight-reel-worth plays. Probably The Rocket was the last guy like this at ND. It’s special to watch, and it’s a shame that it’s all getting marred by the team’s struggle to succeed.
Golden Tate is the best WR in the nation, and probably the best athlete. I’m sure there are some that will dispute it, but Mark Ingram has nothing on Tate. Other than playing for a team with a better record.
Tate is 4th in total yards among WRs on the season, and is poised to break the Shark’s single-season record for receiving yards next week. He’s also tied for 2nd in total TD catches in ND history, and could break that record this year as well.
Among WR’s with 50+ catches, he’s 4th in YPC, and among those with 70+ catches, he’s 2nd. He’s also tied for 3rd in TDs among all WRs, and he’s averaging 6.9 yards per run when he gets the ball on the ground, and has added 2 TDs rushing.
More than anything, he does the fantastic. The end-of-the-half TD catch against WSU. The Punt Return TD against Pitt. The “Go ahead and hit me Mays” hit in the end zone where NFL-bound-all-world USC Safety Mays bounced off Tate like Tate was made out of steel. The list goes on and on.
The kid produces, and produces in a big time, flashy way. Not something many people associated with ND in the recent past. But now that’s changed.
Thanks to Golden.
He may go pro this year, and who could argue with the decision? Lots of money, his draft stock rising, CBA negotiation implications, potential coaching change…But he may also stay another year. He’s developed a ton over the past year, but, remarkably, is still somewhat raw. There are other reasons to stay – a degree, a chance at the Heisman, a chance at helping ND really get it going again, improving his draft stock even more.
I’m really hoping the kid sticks around. Selfishly, and not really because he’s such an asset to the team and because he’ll be a senior leader and will help ND win games. But really, because he’s just so damn fun to watch.
- (Re)Introducing: DANCING LEPRECHAUNS - August 29, 2019
- Ticket Auction: ND vs USC - August 22, 2019
- No Respect! - December 14, 2018
trey
Wish I felt differently, but I dont see either Golden or JC staying at this point.
qb
G Tate is incredible. Just glad we had a chance 2 c this special talent. every game: WOW!
Titus
Have you ever noticed that whoever lays a hit on Tate invariably stays on the ground longer than Tate does?
Mark G
Great post — nice to be able to focus on a positive amidst all of the uncertainty going on.
Like you, I am being selfish in hoping Golden does not go pro after this year. That said, I do think Tate would be well served to come back next year rather than going pro. He is a great athlete — GREAT athlete — and makes fantastic plays in large part because of his desire and will to win. But he still has some developing to do in terms of routes and blocking. He is not the prototypical NFL wide receiver, and I am not sure how high he would go in the draft this year.
domer.mq
Titus, in the case of SC’s Mays, Mays only ever seemed to tackle himself.
solo076
Tate and JC both have a lot to return for. Polish is the key for both of them. Neither one has perfected the leader role, there are major improvements that can be made in their personal development as well. I think Mark G has a point about routes and blocking. True he can get that in the NFL, but the Heisman…it is a strong probabliity that either him or JC could win it. This team is not that far removed from the same 3-9 team…look from then to now. JC especially has proven folks wrong..GT was “too small” and astounded people this year. Billed as the “2nd” behind the phenom Floyd.
Test for all the true Irish….who is the last star to turn pro early?
The Biscuit
sadly, i too think they’re gone. i think they came to play for Charlie. unless it’s some crazy hire, they’re gone. i’d be thrilled if i was proven wrong though.
nfl thoughts
Hey what was he doing, that’s crazy
Al
What’s up?. Thanks for the info. I’ve been digging around looking some info up for shool, but i think i’m getting lost!. Google lead me here – good for you i guess! Keep up the great information. I will be popping back over in a couple of days to see if there is any more info.
Aggie
Hiya – I found your site by mistake. I was looking in Google for Accounting software that I had already purchased when I came upon your site, I must say your site is really informative, I just love the theme, its amazing!. I don’t have the time this minute to totally read your entire site but I have bookmarked it and also will sign up for your RSS feeds. I’ll back in a day or two. thanks for a great site.