We're featuring some of our HomeTeam 100 players, including our No. 71 player, Jesuit RB Kevin Newman:
His game face is more sour than sullen. Before each contest, Jesuit tailback Kevin Newman will take a small jar of dill pickles, eat a few, hand the others out, then chug the juice.
“Helps prevent cramps,” he said.
No sense messing with what works. In his first two varsity seasons, Newman’s productivity has been as high as his sodium intake. The Tigers’ top rusher last season (901 yards), Newman enters his junior year with more than 1,400 career rushing yards and 23 touchdowns.
The next preseason or fall practice he misses will be his first. Ever.
“He’s one of those players you love to have around,” new Tigers coach Matt Thompson said. “Not only is he your best player, but he’s one of your best leaders.”
Which is to say, any curdled expression he conveys on a sideline likely will be caused by his pregame drink and nothing more. Sturdy enough to be an every-down back, Newman likely will be asked to share snaps with the likes of senior Ryan Black. No problem, he says.
When he does get a handoff, history indicates he’s good for more than 6 yards a carry.
“I think his best attribute is his vision,” Thompson said. “He’s got great vision and sees the holes. He’s more quick than he is fast. He’s not going to be a 4.4 guy, but he is fast enough to hurt you. And he’s a big kid.”
Also in this series:
Players 91-100
Players 81-90
Players 71-80