Published February 24, 2011 - 5:19am
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Saturday Down South is continually counting down the top 20 players in the SEC for 2011 – pre-season style!
Chris Relf – No. 19
Say what you want about Chris Relf and Mississippi State, but they were a thorn in everyone’s side this past season. In a very talented and deep SEC West, the Bulldogs stepped up to the plate and provided their own argument in the equation. They leaned mightily on their base option attack with quarterback Chris Relf handling the ball every snap.
Relf was criticized early for not being effective in the passing game, and the “passing” quarterback Tyler Russell often replaced him during games. However, towards the latter portion of the season, Relf became very valuable and efficient at running Dan Mullen’s passing attack.
On the year, he was 129 for 220 with 1,789 yards, 13 touchdowns and six interceptions. Sure, not out-of-this-world good, but please hear me out.
Relf was also utilized heavily in the running game, with his 6-4, 240lb punishing frame. He carried the football 194 times for 713 yards and five touchdowns. Often, he would break through one tackler, gaining more yards in the process, and picking up much-needed first downs.
Relf’s highlight of the year was in the Gator Bowl, where he trashed Michigan. During that game, Relf had three touchdowns through the air and added one on the ground. One could just see Relf gaining experience and confidence throughout the season for the Bulldogs.
For 2011, Relf has his top wide receiver Chad Bumphis returning and his tailback Vick Ballard returning. Both are crucial to Relf’s success. Dan Mullen will rely heavily on the talents of Relf to lead this team once again as a senior.
Even though you may argue against Relf, he is the perfect example of an overachiever. Sure, he’s not the most spectacular player you will come across, but he embodies a leadership personality that is the perfect fit for Dan Mullen and the Mississippi State Bulldogs.
The Countdown:
I like Chris Relf.
Solid at #19 on the list.
Maybe even at #16 or #17.
He’s an underrated quarterback in this league.
I would like to see him become a better passer though.
He’s like a truck when he runs the ball.
If he plays this season like he did in the Gator Bowl, both he and State will continue to be a thorn in everybody’s side.
Roll Tide!
You’re right. He’s very underrated. I have a feeling he will do very well this upcoming year.
Way to go Relf! Very proud, when any Bulldog gets some positive recognition! Looking forward to the season getting started!
I think Chris Relf should do well next season. Also I enjoy seeing fans of another school, like Joseph, recognize when a player is praiseworthy. Some of these idiots on here need to get a grip when it comes to trashing other teams and their players. We should hate each other on the field and let the talking be done there by the players instead of over-obsessed fans via internet. That being said, I like Chris Relf extremely. He fits the MSU mold in how more is done with less and having nothing handed to you and constantly being talked down and written off. Playing with a chip on your shoulder and overachieving is the Bulldog way and Chris fits that perfectly.
Relf,Bumphis and Ballard…the Three muskateers…bring on the 2011 football season.. I love my dawgs… I think they will be a great football team this year can’t wait for the season to start..Dan Mullen is an awesome coach and has what it takes to bring us to another victory …. Go Dawgs !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I liked Chris went he first set foot on campus, everything about him said winner but, after a lack luster season everyone started looking for another quarterback to step up. However Chris has really matured into a great leader, and all around football player. No matter what kinda stats he puts up this year, all state fans know what kind of quarter back he is and thats a good one. I expect Chris, Vick, and Chad to all have very sucessful years.
Watch out SEC WEST Here comes the bulldogs!!!!!!!