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The SEC West featured two of the conference’s best tight ends in 2014. Ole Miss’ Evan Engram and Arkansas’ Hunter Henry were among the league’s best performers at the position, providing solid outputs in their sophomore seasons. Here’s a look at how the two players matchup in SDS’ player showdown.
THE CASE FOR EVAN ENGRAM
Engram was named All-SEC first team by both coaches and the AP. The sophomore led all SEC tight ends with 651 yards and two touchdowns on 37 receptions. Engram averaged 17.6 yards per catch and 54.3 yards per game. The 6-foot-3, 227-pound tight end entered the season with high expectations, making several preseason All-America watch lists, as well as the Mackey Award watch list. Engram has continued his development, coming off a breakout freshman season that earned All-SEC second team honors. Despite entering his collegiate career as a wide receiver, the sophomore has proven to be one of the top tight ends in the SEC during his first two seasons.
THE CASE FOR HUNTER HENRY
Henry was named All-SEC second team behind Engram. The sophomore recorded 495 yards and two touchdowns on 36 receptions, ranking second among Arkansas receivers. Like Engram, Henry entered the season with high expectations following a stellar campaign as a true freshman. The former four-star prospect holds a size advantage at 6-foot-6, 225-pounds and also has great hands for the tight end position. Henry is also hindered by Bret Bielema’s one-dimensional run-heavy offense. However, this scheme does make the tight end a primary target on the few passing plays called by the Razorbacks.
VERDICT
Thus far, Engram has held the edge in statistical output. The two players have enjoyed parallel collegiate careers through two seasons and both deserve credit as the conference’s top tight ends. However, Engram has proven to be slightly better as indicated by his statistics. Despite competing with some of the SEC’s best receivers for catches in Ole Miss’ offense, Engram has proven to be one of the Rebels best options and the SEC’s top playmaking tight end.
Winner: Evan Engram
A former freelance journalist from Nashville, Jason covers Tennessee, Vanderbilt and Kentucky
