From the 10/18/02 edition of TSLMail:
Looking to continue the string of great running backs in the Virginia Tech program, the Hokies hope to impress one of the best running back prospects in the nation in Pompano Beach, Florida, native Tyrone Moss. The 5-10, 215-pound Ely High School standout will pay an official visit to the Hokies this weekend.
Last night, Moss broke Emmitt Smith’s consecutive 100-yard game streak in the state of Florida, rushing for over 100 yards in his 29th straight contest (and yes, “last night” isn’t a misprint; Ely played a Thursday night game). Moss rushed for 142 yards and two touchdowns in a 49-0 victory over Cooper City. Moss is also Broward County’s All-time leader in rushing yards and touchdowns.
Ely Head Coach Steve Davis calls Moss “The best player I have ever coached…no doubt. He runs with power and tenacity. He breaks tackles and has excellent vision.”
Moss’ tough running style and production have earned him a five-star rating by Insiders.com, a four-star rating by Rivals.com, Superprep All-American status, and a spot in Tom Lemming’s preseason Top 100 list.
You don’t need rankings to tell how good Moss is going to be. For a glimpse of how good Moss really is, one needed to witness a Moss 45-yard touchdown run in a Division 5A playoff game last year. It was there that he had what would be the greatest run Coach Steve Davis has ever seen.
“It was 4th and 1,” said Davis. “We were on the opponent’s 45 yard line. He broke, literally, like eight tackles and scored from 45 yards out. That was the best play I have ever seen.”
While Moss still has a ways to go to match the man whose record he broke last night, he does compare favorably with the Cowboy superstar, according to coach Davis.
“He’s a little bit faster than Emmitt was at this level,” said Davis. “What Emmitt has accomplished since is unreal. I don’t want to compare, but I do see great things in Tyrone’s future.”
Scary thought for whoever has to face this awesome prospect. Comforting thought for Hokie fans, as Virginia Tech has made his final six. Big East rival Miami (FL), Michigan State, Ohio State, Tennessee and North Carolina make up the rest of the list with North Carolina, Michigan State, and Miami (FL) almost certain to get three of Moss’ four remaining official visits.
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