Don't expect a smile to replace that intense look on
Sam McGuffie's face on Saturdays this football season.
But believe it or not, the junior running back is more comfortable than ever as he enters his second season as Rice's most dangerous and versatile offensive weapon.
"I'm a lot more confident in what we are doing," McGuffie said as Rice prepares to open the season Saturday at Texas. "Last year I was going crazy; I didn't know this and that. I took this offseason to mature myself and learn to just do everything a little better."
The hesitation last season was the result of a 20-month layoff after the former
Cy-Fair High School star transferred from Michigan, where he played one season. Because of
NCAA transfer rules, McGuffie had to sit out the 2009 season.
"It took awhile," McGuffie said. "I felt like a freshman again. Now that I'm older and more mature, I know how to go about things and know what to expect of myself."
McGuffie carried the offensive load for most of last season, leading the Owls in rushing (883 yards) and receptions (39 for 384 yards) and totaling nine touchdowns. It wasn't until early November, following a 178-yard rushing performance against Tulsa, that McGuffie said he felt comfortable in his role.
"He felt the weight of the city of Houston on his shoulders after trans-ferring from Michigan, and everybody had such high expectations," Rice coach
David Bailiff said. "He really pressed and did some things as the season went on he worked his way out."
Bailiff said he had "long talks" with McGuffie throughout the season about the pressure he put on himself.
"When you press, nothing good happens," Bailiff said. "I think Sam now is just having fun."
With the return of a veteran offense - and the emergence of
Jeremy Eddington and Turner Petersen in the Wild Owl package - McGuffie is not expected to have to carry a majority of the load. If anything, the Owls envision using the explosive McGuffie in a variety of ways, including as a slot receiver.
"Sam is a guy who can change a game in a heartbeat," Rice quarterback
Taylor McHargue said. "With a year under his belt, he understands what we are trying to do and understands how he fits in the system. We are looking for him to have a big year."
McGuffie said he is ready to contribute in whatever role needed.
"I know what I bring to the table," he said. "The pressure is just as much as I make it, I guess. I know I have to make plays. Whatever they ask me, I'm going to do as hard as I can."