Four years ago I stood in the MSU student section for the first time. I watched in awe as the Bulldogs took America by storm. MSU started the season 8-0 for the first time in school history and made the Top 10.
I, along with cowbell clanging counterparts (they were still legal then), cheered the Dawgs to dramatic wins. From the stands, I was amazed at the impact that my classmate Dontae Walker had in his first season of rushing in the SEC.
He dusted defenders. If any somehow got in his way, he plowed them. What potential-a strong, durable back with breakaway speed!
Parents clothed their youngsters in replica No. 3 jerseys.
Everyone in Maroon and White was sure he was destined to go places.
Eight days ago Dontae Walker went to the Oktibbeha County jail.
He and Shaundraaus Frazier were arrested for possession of marijuana and crack cocaine. Frazier was on probation from a prior narcotics conviction and Walker was along for the ride.
During his impact years as a freshman and sophomore, Walker thrived on the gridiron by being at the right place at the right time. Oktibbeha County jail can never be the right place at any time.
Although Walker ranks fifth in rushing touchdowns (22) and ninth in rushing yards (1,875) on the MSU career charts, his career began declining in his junior season.
Just one of his eight 100-yard rushing performances came after the 2000 Sanford Independence Bowl where he ran for 143 yards and three TDs.
The following two seasons MSU was a snake-bitten program, going 3-8 and 3-9. Walker went from being applauded to being booed on Senior Day. He left the field that day and quit the team before his final Egg Bowl.
Walker’s recent misstep can serve as a reminder to us all…from freshman to graduate students, varsity athletes to couch competitors: There is a bad crowd out there.
So-called friends may not consider that other people can be affected by their actions. After age 18, the responsibility rests with the individual. Avoiding hazardous situations such as drugs and alcohol abuse are critical to reaching goals.
It’s not always easy. But getting mixed in with a bad crowd makes achieving goals that much more difficult. Students should use caution when making friends and remember to “look out for No. 1.”
No. 3 wishes he had.
Craig Peters is a teaching/coaching and sports communication major. He can be reached at [email protected]