Alex Wade is big time. But you don't need to remind the Cavaliers -- or, for that matter, the rest of the ACC -- of this. Even if they are not able to vividly describe Wade's powerful presence on the field, or can not rattle of the fullback's list of accolades acquired over a strong collegiate career, without a doubt they will have heard enough of Wade to recount his sheer physical size. And for some Virginia players, that alone is enough to make Wade noteworthy.
Sophomore Kwakou Robinson was quick to recount the Duke fullback's 6-foot 1-inch frame, carrying 255 pounds.
"I just remember him being a big dude," Robinson said in anticipation of facing the Blue Devils' 2002 Most Valuable Player.
His storied size undoubtedly contributes to Wade's on-field potency and enhances his ability to gain key yardage for the Blue Devils. His bulk, coupled with exceptional athleticism and a strong drive to take the Duke program to new heights, has turned Wade into a dominating runner with the ball and earned him a Sporting News distinction as the fourth-best fullback in the nation.
Over his term at Duke, the fifth-year senior has not only become a fixture as a starting fullback, but this season, he also is charged with the role of captain.
For Wade, it is likely his role at the helm of the Blue Devil squad that has the greatest power to make him feel small. After finishing the 2002 season with a 2-10 (0-8 ACC) record, Duke is struggling to rally this season in what is shaping up to be a strong Atlantic Coast Conference.
Luckily, this outstanding student athlete has a solid head on his shoulders and the mental stability to keep his goals in order. Duke has the potential to go places this season, but they will certainly need to maintain an awareness of how big a season the Blue Devils will need to turn out to grab a bowl bid.
"Our goal is to make it to a bowl game," Wade said of the 2003 season, which opens today. "And in order to make it to a bowl game, the corollary is to win an ACC game. So we expect that to happen."
However, there is a crowd waiting in Charlottesville that has been sizing up the Blue Devils and have no plans to let the Cavaliers serve as a stepping stone on their way to an improved season record.
Wade's size, coupled with the threat of senior tailback Chris Douglas, will keep the Virginia squad working. At 6 feet and 190 pounds, Douglas packs less of a punch then Wade, but alternatively boasts a reputation of impressive speed -- especially for a man of his size.
Virginia coach Al Groh emphasized the importance of his players facing Douglas and Wade as equal but opposite threats.
"I think the players have to know who's in the game," Groh said. "I guess that's the same thing as when they bring in another pitcher from the bullpen. If you think you're swinging at the same fast ball, well, you're not."
Virginia junior Chris Canty stated the differences a bit more concisely: "They're two different backs. Kind of like thunder and lightning."
These two forceful elements have proven to be integral aspects of a feisty Duke squad, which is fleshed out by a host of players whom Wade is determined to take places.
"I think that the worst part is missing out on the college experience, well, at least some aspects," Wade said of his teammates' sacrifices. "But I know that I'm always going to remember this and the support of the whole student body."
Perhaps that support will follow Duke to Charlottesville, but regardless, the Cavaliers will have their work cut out for them when Wade thunders into town.
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