Taylor says he's the best

July 30, 2006

CHRISTA TURNER
Columbus Ledger-Enquirer

Courtney Taylor

HOOVER, Ala. - Don't ever mistake Courtney Taylor for a shy person, one afraid to speak his mind.

He's confident of his abilities and doesn't care what anyone else thinks. Coaches and writers among the league seemingly bypassed Taylor when casting votes for the best receivers in the league. He doesn't care. He still boldly predicts himself as one of the elite.

"I feel like I'm the best in the country," Taylor said. "At the same time, I know I've got to go out and prove it. Words are words and actions speak louder than words any day. I want to set the bar up there."

In 2004, Taylor had a breakout season, becoming the go-to receiver for experienced quarterback Jason Campbell. His season highlight came against LSU when he caught a crucial fourth-down pass to keep the game-winning drive alive. Moments later, he added the game-winning catch. Taylor finished that season with 43 catches for 737 yards and six touchdowns.

Last season wasn't so kind. A high ankle injury early in the season kept him from reaching his full potential. Also, rookie quarterback Brandon Cox spread the ball around among a passel of talented receivers, as well as to the tight ends and backs. Taylor's production slipped to 22 catches for 278 yards and one touchdown.

That could be why people have forgotten him. He's out to remind them, especially since his ankle is at 100 percent now.

"I'm not going to shy away from it," Taylor said. "I'm always ready to step up to the challenge."

For Taylor to be effective, Auburn's young receiving corps must carry its fair share of the load or opposing teams can double team Taylor to shut him down.

Prechae Rodriguez got his feet wet in 2005, catching 13 passes for 240 yards. After that, there's a huge dropoff in experience. People who saw Robert Dunn at Laney High in Augusta, Ga., say he has the potential to be huge for the Tigers. He certainly would like to show that.

"I just have to come out here and do what I do every day," Dunn said.

While Taylor shared the leadership role a year ago with veterans Ben Obomanu, Devin Aromashodu and Anthony Mix, he must shoulder all of it this season.

"It's just instilling in them the work ethic," Taylor said. "If you don't have a work ethic, trust me, there's a guy out there somewhere else getting better than your."

Taylor said he's been excited about Rodriguez, who has a large body frame at 6-foot-4, 202 pounds.

"He's thrilled about the opportunity... to show what he can do," Taylor said of Rodriguez.

Taylor said he also expects strong things from slot receivers Lee Guess and Dunn, as well as James Swinton. Incoming freshman Tim Hawthorne could provide depth as well. He's been impressive in summer workouts, Taylor said.

"We've got a lot of guys who are going to step up for us this year," Taylor said.

Hawthorne likely has the best chance of an incoming freshman to play. Terrell Zachery is another possibility, while athlete Mario Fannin could be worked out at that position. A running back normally, Fannin would have an easier time breaking in at receiver. Alex Rose is still waiting to hear if the NCAA Clearinghouse will clear him.

In the meantime, Taylor is eager to showcase his abilities. And if you don't think he has them, just ask. He'll be happy to tell you.