Some times good things just do happen to good people.
That is surely the case with former Grizzly All American Marc Mariani who is making the most of his pre-season time with Tennessee.
Some Titan faithful scoffed at his draft selection pointing out that since he played with, and was a good friend of, Brandon Fisher, you know the coach’s son, he was a ”mercy” seventh-round selection who could be used as cannon fodder for those players from bigger schools who would dominate the pay-for-play scene and gain a roster spot.
But the former Havre High School state champion tennis player – you saw that here first – whose teams won four straight conference and state titles, has drawn rave reviews from doubters, a ton of support from Fisher and special team coaches, and could well secure the wide-open Titan return job.
In his way, however, is Damian Williams, a third-round selection from Southern Cal, who because of his higher draft status will be given every opportunity.
Marc is one of those wide-eyed, blonde, small-town kids that you want at your front door to take out your daughter.
But make no mistake about it when the chin strap is snapped down, a transition occurs and he’d do anything to beat you on a route or break open a play.
He’s was a go-to guy for the Grizzlies as much as anyone in recent memory and when he broke a 60-yard return last week against Arizona by turning on the afterburners and jetting toward the sideline, it reminded me so much of his electrifying return last season against South Dakota State when the Grizzlies were all but done in the third quarter, trailing by a seemingly unlikely amount, until he burst down the east sidelines for the score,
And if he gets a chance at receiver he will remind you of guys like Wayne Chrebet of the Jets or Steve Largent of the Seahawks, players who just somehow got open to make a play and turn the outcome around.
Invite Mariani to dinner, take him for coffee, introduce him to your daughter, but don’t try to defend him on the football field. He’ll blow you out of your socks.
Post by Mick Holien
