Georgia Football: Why We Haven't Seen the Last of Former Bulldog Isaiah Crowell
We found out Friday that Georgia's standout running back from a season ago, Isaiah Crowell, was officially dismissed from the team following his arrest for gun possession, according to a statement released by the University of Georgia.
After being charged with two felonies—possession in a school zone and altering of a weapon—Mark Richt elected, quite swiftly, to let the rising sophomore go.
It makes sense, as Crowell had been in hot water before, failing a drug test early in his time at Georgia (per the Atlanta Journal-Constitution), and with all of its off-field issues, Georgia could ill afford to take the wait-and-see approach.
Of the two charges staring him in the face, the second charge, altering a serial number on a firearm, looms the largest—punishable by five to 10 years in jail if it is proven that he knowingly altered the tracking number.
That's Crowell's tangible, legal hurdle.
And a mighty hurdle it is, but it is not insurmountable. Crowell, himself, is relatively optimistic:
"
Seem like somebody burnin candles on me...God has a plan and all the hatas can say whatever, because ima get stronger and still reach da top
— Isaiah Crowell (@iSAIAH_RIP_STEV) June 30, 2012
"
The truth is, this is a young man that will likely have to do a little time. As we've seen in the world of football, that is not something that has necessarily stopped individuals from achieving their ultimate goal. Felonies are tough to overcome, but with the skill set that Crowell possesses, there will be an opportunity for him in the future.
As far as roadblocks to his dream go, oddly enough, the felony itself will not be the main issue.
Certainly, it will stop some people from calling him. However, the same issues that have plagued Crowell since arriving on campus are what could hold the newly dismissed rusher back. A lesson has to be learned here.
We've had questions about his focus, work ethic and desire to be great since his first suspension. Now, with a massive obstacle in front of him, he has to learn to practice those qualities that he's lacked before.
If Crowell can learn those things and keep his eyes focused on his goals, he can make it back. If he remains the same immature kid making poor decisions, then we may well have heard the last of him.
