In a move that has left many scratching their heads, Tennessee offensive lineman Cooper Mays has somehow managed to land himself a finalist spot for one of college football’s most overhyped awards. Despite a season full of inconsistency and unremarkable performances, Mays has been thrust into the spotlight as one of the “best” in the nation. But is he really deserving of such recognition, or is this just another example of college football’s love affair with players from high-profile programs?
Mays, a senior for the Volunteers, has had his fair share of ups and downs throughout his collegiate career. His performances have often been overshadowed by the team’s overall lackluster play on the offensive line. While he’s certainly not a bad player by any means, the level of attention this “prestigious” award has given him seems almost laughable. The competition for the honor is fierce, yet Mays somehow manages to edge out players who have actually put together standout seasons.
To make matters worse, this award has a history of being handed to players with inflated reputations, and Mays’ inclusion only adds to that narrative. While he’s had his moments, it’s hard to ignore the fact that his individual contributions have been often overshadowed by glaring team weaknesses. The Volunteers’ offensive struggles this season have been well-documented, and many wonder how a player from a squad that’s been far from elite can even be considered for such a coveted honor.
Is this award truly a reflection of Mays’ abilities, or is it simply a case of marketing and name recognition at work? It’s a question worth pondering. Regardless, the fact that Mays is even in the running for such a “prestigious” title speaks volumes about the often arbitrary nature of award selections in college football. While some might argue that this recognition is well-deserved, it’s hard to shake the feeling that it’s just another example of the system rewarding the loudest, most visible names rather than the truly deserving players.
