University of Houston Athletics
Football Feature: The Perfect, All-Purpose Captain
11/2/2016 12:00:00 AM | Football
In the landscape of college football, few players are capable of impacting the game at multiple positions on the field like senior captain Brandon Wilson.
In 2015, Wilson started at cornerback in 12 of his 14 appearances and also logged some starts at running back. Combined with being a primary special teams contributor, Wilson's time spent on the sidelines was minimal. Comfortable anywhere on the field, Wilson is the ultimate utility player.
Having established himself as a dynamic athlete on the field, Wilson has taken on a significant leadership role in 2016. While receiving the highest honor of team captain, Wilson also leads a young secondary where he is the lone senior. And though the experience is lacking, the secondary continues to bring out the best within each other. "It's a brotherhood, and they help push me more than anything," Wilson said.
That is a testament to the culture around the University of Houston Football program and the values within Wilson himself. Special teams coordinator and cornerbacks coach Jason Washington has witnessed the upbringing of Wilson through the football program during his time in Houston. "He's come a long way," Washington said. "Playing corner is about technique, mindset and concentrating on the little things; He has gone above and beyond."
While monitoring his developments on the field, Coach Washington has also watched Wilson mature as a man off the field. "He's a fine young man," Washington said. "If he was the right age, I would let him ask for my daughter's hand in marriage." The ultimate endorsement of Wilson's character.
Wilson continues to lead by example, always looking for opportunities to polish his craft. "I have to come in focused each and every week," Wilson said. "I'm constantly watching film, getting my body right and leading the young group behind me."
The awareness that others are looking to them as a model is the greatest attribute a captain can possess. Wilson is well aware. The responsibilities of a captain extend much further than walking to midfield to call the coin toss. It is a position of accountability, reverence and influence. "I'm more responsible for doing what I have to do," Wilson said. "I'm accountable for everything on and off the field."
The evolution of Brandon Wilson has been one to witness as many attest to. His growth as a player on the field has been rather extraordinary. The playmaking ability few players carry, Wilson is in possession of tenfold. On full display in week one of the 2016 season when Wilson returned a missed field goal 100-yards for a touchdown. His presence is always felt, and he can challenge the best athletes on the field.
As for the man that is Brandon Wilson, only high praises are spoken about him. His personality is unmatched, and his teammates and coaches cherish his being.
The transformation of the player we see before us today was inevitable. Given the opportunity, Wilson will always succeed.
Coach Washington has consistently backed Wilson, and knew his greatness was undeniable.
"Just give him an opportunity. Give him a chance, and he'll make people stand up on their feet. He did that," Washington said.
By: Nicholas Williamson, Athletics Communications
