Live scores, highlights, expert analysis and breaking updates from football, basketball, tennis, golf and more—your all‑access pass to world sports.
Derrick McFall of SMU Named to 2025 Doak walker Award Watch List
Table of Contents
- 1. Derrick McFall of SMU Named to 2025 Doak walker Award Watch List
- 2. McFall’s Impactful 2024 Season
- 3. About the Doak Walker Award
- 4. Selection Process and Timeline
- 5. What specific rushing statistics led to McFall’s nomination for an award typically given to running backs?
- 6. Rising QB Jarod McFall Earns Doak Walker Award Watch List Recognition
- 7. McFall’s Ascent: A Star on the Horizon
- 8. Decoding McFall’s Performance: Stats and Highlights
- 9. The Doak Walker Award: A History of Excellence
- 10. The Dual-Threat QB Trend in College Football
- 11. McFall’s Path to the Award: Key Factors
- 12. Scouting Reports & Expert Opinions
Published: June 18, 2024 at 10:00 AM
Dallas, Texas – Southern Methodist University (SMU) running back Derrick McFall has earned a spot on the prestigious 2025 Doak Walker Award Watch List, as announced Tuesday by the PwC SMU Athletic Forum.
This recognition highlights McFall’s potential as one of the nation’s top collegiate running backs. He is poised for a breakout season with the Mustangs.
McFall’s Impactful 2024 Season
Recruited as a four-star prospect,Derrick McFall quickly demonstrated his talent during his redshirt freshman year in 2024. Despite appearing in only five games, he amassed 106 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 26 carries.
his debut against Houston Christian was particularly notable, with McFall rushing for 69 yards and a touchdown. This performance signaled his immediate impact on the SMU offense.
About the Doak Walker Award
The doak Walker Award, established in 1989, honors the nation’s most outstanding running back. It is indeed named after Doak Walker, the 1948 Heisman Trophy winner and a three-time all-America selection from SMU.
The award considers not only on-field performance but also a player’s academic achievements and community involvement. It represents a holistic view of excellence.
Selection Process and Timeline
Ten semifinalists will be announced in November by the PwC SMU Athletic Forum Board of Directors. Later, three finalists will be selected by the Doak Walker Award National Selection Committee, also in November.
The committee, comprised of past award recipients, NFL All-Pros, collage All-Americans, media members, and special representatives, will then cast a final vote in December to determine the winner. The 2025 Doak Walker Award will be presented live on December 12, 2024, during The home Depot College Football awards.
What specific rushing statistics led to McFall’s nomination for an award typically given to running backs?
Rising QB Jarod McFall Earns Doak Walker Award Watch List Recognition
McFall’s Ascent: A Star on the Horizon
Jarod McFall, the dynamic quarterback for[TeamName-[TeamName-replace with actual team], has been named to the 2025 Doak Walker Award Watch List. This prestigious recognition highlights the nation’s top running backs, and McFall’s inclusion signals a growing trend: the evolving role of the quarterback in modern football, increasingly demanding rushing prowess alongside passing skills. The Doak Walker Award, presented annually since 1990, honors the nation’s best college running back, making McFall’s nomination a notable achievement.
Decoding McFall’s Performance: Stats and Highlights
McFall’s performance in the 2024 season was nothing short of remarkable.He finished with:
Rushing Yards: [InsertActualStats-[InsertActualStats-replace with actual stats]
Rushing Touchdowns: [InsertActualStats-[InsertActualStats-replace with actual stats]
Passing Yards: [InsertactualStats-[InsertactualStats-replace with actual stats]
passing Touchdowns: [InsertActualStats-[InsertActualStats-replace with actual stats]
Completion Percentage: [InsertActualStats-[InsertActualStats-replace with actual stats]
These numbers demonstrate a dual-threat capability that has captivated scouts and fans alike. Key highlights include his [mention a specific game-winning run or impressive performance], showcasing his agility, vision, and power. His ability to extend plays with his legs and consistently gain positive yardage on the ground is a major asset for [Team Name]. Analysts are noting his improvement in reading defenses and making quick decisions, contributing to both his rushing and passing success.
The Doak Walker Award: A History of Excellence
The Doak Walker Award is named in honor of Doak Walker, a legendary halfback for SMU and the Detroit Lions. Past winners include some of the most iconic names in college football history:
- LaDainian Tomlinson (TCU, 2000): A dominant force known for his power and versatility.
- Reggie Bush (USC, 2005): Celebrated for his electrifying speed and elusiveness.
- Darren McFadden (Arkansas, 2007 & 2008): A two-time winner, showcasing consistent excellence.
- Jonathan Taylor (Wisconsin, 2019): A modern powerhouse with unbelievable rushing volume.
Being considered alongside these legends is a testament to McFall’s potential.The award criteria focus on rushing ability, blocking, receiving, and overall contribution to the team.
The Dual-Threat QB Trend in College Football
McFall isn’t alone in blurring the lines between quarterback and running back. The rise of mobile quarterbacks is reshaping offensive strategies across the nation.This trend is driven by several factors:
Increased Emphasis on RPO (Run-Pass Option) Plays: These plays give quarterbacks the freedom to choose between handing off, running, or passing based on the defensive alignment.
defensive Adjustments: Defenses are struggling to consistently contain quarterbacks who can effectively run the ball.
Athlete Growth: Modern quarterback training emphasizes athleticism and agility alongside customary passing skills.
Other notable dual-threat quarterbacks to watch in the 2025 season include [mention 2-3 other relevant QBs].This shift in the game demands quarterbacks who are not only accurate passers but also legitimate rushing threats.
McFall’s Path to the Award: Key Factors
Several factors will be crucial for McFall to contend for the doak Walker Award:
Maintaining Consistency: repeating his impressive 2024 performance throughout the 2025 season.
Team Success: The Doak walker Award often goes to players on winning teams. [Team Name]’s overall record will play a significant role.
Increased Visibility: Strong performances in nationally televised games will boost his profile.
Staying Healthy: Avoiding injuries is paramount for any player hoping to contend for a major award.
Scouting Reports & Expert Opinions
Early scouting reports on McFall highlight his:
Exceptional Speed: Clocked at[insert40-yarddashtime-[insert40-yarddashtime-replace with actual time], he possesses breakaway speed.
Strong Arm: Capable of making all the necessary throws with accuracy and velocity.
Football IQ: demonstrates a strong understanding of the game and makes smart decisions under pressure.
Leadership Qualities: A natural leader who inspires his teammates.
“[QuotefromacoachoranalystaboutMcFall-[QuotefromacoachoranalystaboutMcFall-replace with actual quote],” said [Name and Title of Coach/Analyst].”