Syracuse has had a long line of successful receivers, and a few more hope to join the ranks beginning in four days when the Orangemen open their season at Brigham Young. Today (August 25), former All-American receiver Marvin Harrison, one of the school's best, celebrates his 30th birthday.
A three-year starter, Harrison donned orange and blue from 1992-1995. The Indianapolis Colts' All-Pro is the Orange's all-time career receiving yardage leader, with 2,728. During his stay in Syracuse, Harrison totaled 135 receptions (3rd all-time) and 20 touchdown receptions (2nd). Marvin also returned 43 punts (8th) for 556 yards (7th), a 12.9 (4th) career average.
Success followed Harrison beyond his days at Syracuse. In April 1996, the Colts made the 1995 BIG EAST Special Teams Player of the Year their first round draft choice (19th overall). In each of the past three NFL seasons, Harrison has reached the 100 reception, 1,000 yard and 10 touchdown plateaus. For his efforts, Harrison was rewarded all three occasions with a trip to Hawaii for the NFL Pro Bowl.
The 2002 Orangemen present several receivers who aspire to follow in Harrison's footsteps. Senior David Tyree (39 receptions for 655 yards) and juniors Johnnie Morant (18-409) and Jamel Riddle (16-337) are Syracuse's active leaders in career receiving.
Syracuse kicks off the 2002 season on August 29 in Provo, Utah against Brigham Young. The Orangemen will open the home portion of their schedule on September 7 when they host North Carolina in the Carrier Dome. For tickets call 888-DOMETIX or visit www.dometix.com.