Marcus Hamilton: Quick on the Draw


Cornerback Marcus Hamilton

It’s the cornerback’s six-shooter, his peacemaker – an essential tool of the trade. You wouldn’t expect an Old West sheriff to wade into a band of desperados without a nasty piece of heat at his side, so don’t go expecting any corner worth his salt to check his confidence at the door. And just like sometimes John Wayne had to flash that steel in order to keep the peace, well every once in a while a corner’s got to let it be known that he’s the best player on the field. It’s the only way he’ll survive.

That’s why when Marcus Hamilton talks about his goals as a first-year cornerback at the University of Virginia, he almost apologizes before taking aim. Hamilton, a four-star recruit who was rated the eleventh best corner in the nation by Rivals100.com, will suit up for the Cavaliers this fall after a stellar career at Centreville (Va.) high school. Virginia has four lettermen returning to battle for the two corner spots, and Hamilton said he gives his teammates all the respect in the world. He also said that, as fellow corners, they’ll understand that he can’t come into practice shooting for a backup spot.

“I’m expecting to contribute the first two games, and by the third game I expect to start,” Hamilton said. “And I’m not being cocky, but that’s the confidence I have to have. People who don’t play football might read this and think I’m arrogant. But people who play this position know that you have to have this attitude. I hope when they read this people don’t think I’m some loudmouthed freshman trying to be a jerk.”

Virginia fans would have greater cause for concern if Hamilton didn’t have such confidence. Much is written about cornerbacks playing on an “island.” Alone. Isolated. Every other position on the field has players backing it up, but the corner, save some occasional safety help, is the last barrier between the opposition and a touchdown dance. Hamilton compares the individual nature of the position to a golfer having to sink a big putt. “The only thing you can rely on back there is your abilities,” Hamilton said. “So you’ve got to believe in them.”

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