Breaking news: Shawn Springs was one of the most dominant cornerbacks in college football from 1994 to 1996, starring for the Ohio State Buckeyes.
A shutdown defender, Springs was so effective in coverage that opposing quarterbacks rarely threw in his direction. Despite not recording an interception in 1996, his impact was undeniable, as he was named the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year by the conference’s head coaches. He earned first-team All-America honors from Walter Camp, the Football Coaches Association, Sporting News, and Football News.
During his stellar 1996 season, Springs recorded 39 tackles and led the Buckeyes with 15 pass breakups. His elite coverage skills were on full display in the Rose Bowl against Arizona State, where he limited standout receiver Keith Poole to just one catch for 10 yards. Springs contributed five tackles and four pass breakups in that game, helping Ohio State secure a victory.
A two-time All-Big Ten selection, Springs solidified his status as one of the premier defensive backs in Ohio State history. His exceptional athleticism, speed, and football IQ made him a coveted NFL prospect, and the Seattle Seahawks selected him with the third overall pick in the 1997 NFL Draft. He went on to have a successful professional career, earning a Pro Bowl selection and establishing himself as a top cornerback at the next level.
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