I don't want to drag on the fact that Bryant spoke of many other contenders besides returning DII AA's....but he did. Seth Wright, Laramie, Dallas Hall, Elijah Madison, Justin Decker,and a slew of other guys who aren't returning DII AAs.
Harrison was a Junior College All-American. I realize they are not the same level of wreslting but many many guys have been successful in that transition. Some have found more success at the DII level than at JC's. Tommy Edgemon never earned AA status in JC's but was a runner-up in DII's. You'll see Brian Melchori go into the DII Hall of Fame this weekend. He never earned AA status in JC's but was a two time National Champ in DII's. Like I said, I realize it isn't the same level but it isn't as if Harrison is a freshman rolling into his first high level tourney either. We all know that a wrestling match between two high caliber wrestlers can go either way, especially at the National Tourney. I'm excited to see how this wt. plays out. Don't under estimate Hensley either. A month ago I would have said he wouldn't be beat. Harrison proved that wrong by sticking to a smart strategy. Kudos to him and Coach T for that game plan.
Spladle...toughest wt. top to bottom?
165 toughest weight class top to bottom. No telling who will win that.
As far as 141 goes you have a good point about Harrison. I thought I already said that I thought Bryant ommitted Harrison by mistake. This time around there will be no cheering from the stands or questionable refs. It will just be straight up best man wins. I doubt anyone will understimate Hensley. And they should not understimate Morgan either. I think many don't give him a chance which is funny to me since he is the hotest wrestler entering the tournament. That is why Bryant featured him in his article. At the same time dont look past Savala. Or Parker. And of course there is always sleeper. As far as JUCO goes I know the kid that won Harrison's JUCO bracket is from my town and he told me all about that bracket and tournament. I know Harrison is good and I doubt anyone in the bracket is not respecting him. I would hope that Harrison has improved since a 7th in JUCO. Any All American placing is important and a sign of a successful wrestler. I still think Harrison will reach the finals (if he can get past Parker). I just don't think he will win it. I see the Kansas fans are staunch in their support but so are the fans from other teams. The other half of the bracket is tougher in MY opinion. Harrison has exposed how to beat Hensley and we will see if that works for others too. But make no mistake that Savala, Morgan or Parker could win this weight class too.
