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Earl Bennett, WR


Overview

Overview

The SEC's career leader in receptions (236) despite leaving after his junior season, Bennett relies more of route-running, instincts and secure hands than the flashy athleticism or size that characterize most high-ranking prospects. Often characterized as one of the 2008 draft's top possession receivers, Bennett shows too much wiggle and strength in breaking tackles after the catch to be lumped into this category.


High School

Team captain as senior... Started at wide receiver, running back and cornerback for 8-3 West End squad that advanced to 5A state playoffs... Rushed for 829 yards and 12 TDs and caught 45 passes for 729 yards during senior season... Intercepted 10 passes and totalled 52 tackles as cornerback... Named City of Birmingham's Most Valuable Football Player and Most Outstanding Athlete in April ceremony... Named First Team 5A All-State by Alabama Sports Writers Association... Received Birmingham City Player of the Year Award and All-Birmingham Metro recognition... Has started in offensive backfield since freshman season... Averages 11 points per game as guard on basketball squad.


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Analysis

Analysis

Positives: Well-built athlete for the position. ... Good overall musculature with a proportionate build throughout. ... Good initial quickness off the snap. ... Good burst in and out of his routes. ... Smart receiver who varies his speed and use head and shoulder fakes to help create separation from defenders -- even those with more natural athleticism. ... Secure hands for the reception and will body-catch, when needed, if he anticipates a big hit. ... Not afraid to go over the middle. ... Good vision, acceleration, and strength in fighting through tackles to generate positive RAC yardage.


Negatives: Lacks elite overall athleticism and has only moderate deep speed. ... Has been the centerpiece of the Vanderbilt passing attack throughout his career, helping pad his statistics.


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Q & A

Growing up, who was your favorite NFL player and why?
Jerry Rice. Because of his love and passion for the game.
In college, what player hit you the hardest? Who was the recipient of your best hit?
Greg Bleu
What TV-show marathon will keep you on the couch all day?
Chapelle Show
What are the five most-played songs in your iPod? What's the one song you hope nobody ever finds out is in your iPod?
Shawty Lo "They know," "Done it all;" Rocko "I wanna do me;" Lil' Waye "100 Million Dollars;" Chris Brown "With You." I hope nobody ever finds my Brittany Spears songs.
What celebrity would play you in the movie version of your life and why?
Denzel Washington, because he is a great actor.
What is one thing your teammates don't know about you?
I like to watch cartoons.
What reality TV show would you like to be on and why?
"A Shot at Love with Tila Tequila" because she is hot.
What's your proudest moment in football? Proudest moment off the field?
When my team beat Tennessee for the first tiem in 20 years. Off the field was getting a 3.2 GPA for a semester.
When you play Madden, what team do you use? Do you put yourself on the team?
I use any team and I have never put myself on a team.
Who has been the biggest influence on your football career and how?
My brother Grant. He has inspired me to follow my dream though his hardwork trying to make it to the NFL.
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