Graham Harrel not Drafted—What Were You Thinking?

Even though it's old news, I feel compelled to comment on the NFL Draft. 

I am biased about this issue, being a Red Raider fan, but I feel it must be said.  Graham Harrell should have been drafted. Period.

When I look at all the people who were drafted, some of them did not have nearly as strong of a college career as he did, and they were picked.  I realize quarterbacks are not as much in demand, as a team only really needs one (with a backup), but he is definitely pro material. 

The first response to that statement is the trite response, "Well he's just a system quarterback, so that's why he had those numbers."  Let's analyze that, shall we?  First of all, what is a system quarterback?  How do you identify one?  After all, if your only criteria is that it's a pass-heavy offense, then there are tons of systems out there (even in the NFL). If you find a formula that works, why wouldn't you use it? 

Could any quarterback enter a system team and have the same results? I don't think so. The system only works if it has the right players. The system worked well last season because of the team, not because it can function automatically with any cogs that you put into it.  

A system is merely a way to organize things and improve efficiency.  Well, isn't every team a system?  Each a coach has his own style, his own system, but it works. 

In fact, despite the endless praise heaped upon them, quarterbacks like Sam Bradford are not in the same league as Harrell.  Even something simple like calling plays can tell you that.  Last season, Sam Bradford took a lot of time running to the sidelines to find out what to do.  By contrast, Graham Harrell took the reins and called plays himself, based on what he saw.  Mike Leach was in charge, of course, but he trusted his team and his players.  Harrell was an actual leader. 

And while we are on the subject of comparing teams, it's funny how we are always lumped in with UT and OU for comparison (usually saying something about how we choke), when there is such a difference between our programs. They've got a lot more money and facilities, and they attract top players.  We get good players, but not nearly as many high school star athletes.  We have to build our team, and the fact that they are competitive with these other programs is a testament to Mike Leach's coaching.  

Suffice it to say, Texas Tech is very often sold short, with everyone (informed or not) jumping on the system bandwagon, and the players are usually not given their due. 

We are told by some that we need to earn respect instead of whining about wanting it. I think that we have won respect, again and again. Bowl appearances every year (even if they're not BCS bowls) suggest that. Graham Harrell is a first-rate quarterback, and he could be a powerhouse in the NFL. His college record speaks for itself, and it is monumentally shortsighted of the pro teams not to grab such a strong prospect.