Tuesday, September 2, 2014

The Secret to Unleashing Channing Ward

Former 4-star defensive end Channing Ward has been a bit of an enigma since arriving at Ole Miss two years ago with the high expectations that come with being one of the most highly sought defensive ends in the country. Ward was the gem of Ole Miss' 2012 signing class, but despite his physical gifts (Ward is 6-4, 274 pounds), and for reasons that aren't entirely clear, Ward never made it into the starting lineup.

The coaches became so perplexed by Ward that they tried moving him to tight end in the spring. That didn't work out and Ward was moved back to defense.

But Ward was one of the surprise performers against Boise State, recording 5 tackles and forcing a fumble. Along the way, Hugh Freeze may have learned the secret to unlocking Ward's potential. 

Make him mad. 

"He played well the other night," Freeze said. "I will tell you a main reason was one of their players made a comment to him that he didn’t like too much. It was quite funny, but it upset Channing. Channing maybe played a little better."

Ward played well enough that you'll be seeing more of him in the coming weeks.

"He plays better in the games," Freeze said. "We rotate that defensive line to keep it fresh. We have two afternoon games coming this Saturday and next. You have to keep them fresh. He keeps producing in games like that and he’ll certainly keep playing."

Somebody think of some insults to throw Ward's way on Saturday.