By: Lauren Pace
Taiwan Easterling is a special football player. He is not only average, he is capable of almost anything on the field. Easterling is special in the way that many great wide receivers are special—the type of player who simply changes the complexion of a game by just being on the field. When the Florida State Seminoles are looking for points and the ball is passed down the field, fans and the opposing teams are usually looking for #8 to come down with the ball. Easterling brings an invaluable quality to the Seminole football team. Even when the team is behind, the coaches always feel like they have a chance to win with him on the field. He brings confidence and skill to the playing field each and every game.
Easterling graduated from Oak Grove High School in 2007. He began his football career as a quarterback at Magee High School for the first three years of high school and then transferred to Oak Grave and played wide receiver as a senior. Not only was he very skilled at football, but he was also very talented at baseball. Easterling had many options for college including Mississippi State University, Southern Miss, and West Virginia. In the end, he decided to attend Florida State University and become a Seminole.
Easterling achieved many accomplishments throughout his high school career including being named Class 5A leader in receptions, “Dandy Dozen,” Mr. Baseball by the Clarion Ledger, and winning the 2007 State Baseball Championship with the Warriors.
Easterling spent his freshmen year practicing with the team and training for the next year. He was considered one of Florida State’s top offensive weapons during his sophomore year. He had a great season with an unforgettable touchdown against Virginia Tech. Unfortunately, in early February of this year, during off-season training in the spring, he ruptured his left Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel. He went through surgery in late February and then proceeded through several months of physical therapy. Easterling was given little hope of returning anytime soon; however, Easterling finally recovered enough to return to the field. When he played, he appeared as though he had never been injured. People were shocked at how fast he went through his recovery.
Florida State has a very good football program and holds many national championships with Coach Bobby Bowden. Although they have not been as successful in recent years, they might be on their way back up this year. In 2009 they were 9-4 and this year they have started the season off at 2-2.
Easterling is an extremely talented athlete and Oak Grove was lucky to have him his senior year. Oak Grove definitely had a hand in preparing him for what could be his future career.
