Even in a fierce rivalry, a common goal can be reached.
The rap industry refers to such things as “Real recognizes real.” Dwayne Michael Carter, Jr., better known by his stage name “Lil Wayne” put his stamp of approval on Aubrey “Drake” Graham. In the same manner, Andre “Dr. Dre” Young had no problems having Marshall “Eminem” Mathers as his protege. These examples either stem from the same rap label or genre of hip-hop; however, the principle of the matter remains firm.
Legends can pick out the next great individual.
Former Auburn running back and Heisman winner Vincent “Bo” Jackson revealed his Heisman vote for this season and it happens to be Alabama tailback Derrick Henry. He made his decision known Tuesday as a guest on the Paul Finebaum show. “He’s my number one choice to win,” Jackson said per Wesley Senior of AL.com.
“I say this — if someone from Auburn can’t win the Heisman or if Auburn can’t win the national championship, I’d rather for it to stay in the state. If we can do that, the state is doing good. It makes us look good… the rest of the country can not deny that we produce champions,” Jackson said.
Is the Iron Bowl this week? Yes. Do Alabama and Auburn like each other? Of course not.
But even in disagreement, one has to show respect for an individual that has greatness on the horizon. Jackson, who the Heisman in 1985, sees amazing potential in Henry. The junior leads all Heisman polls with 1,526 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns on 249 carries. Auburn will have a daunting task in trying to limit him.
Stephen M. Smith is a senior analyst and columnist for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @ESPN_Future.
