Clowney, the Anti-Manziel, Makes a Splash at Media Days

At the SEC Media Days, Jadeveon Clowney was quick to draw a sharp contrast between himself and the man he hopes to beat out for the Heisman Trophy.

“I don’t go to bars,” Clowney said. “I don’t drink.” He went on to add: “I don’t tweet. I stay off the Internet.”

The not-so-subtle swipe at Texas A&M quarterback Johnny Manziel may be one of the reasons why Heisman voters may look to the Gamecocks defensive end as an alternative to the brash Aggie signal caller.

Another reason, however, could be the freakish athleticism.

Clowney, who measures at 6’6″, 268lbs. ran a 4.46 forty yard dash earlier this offseason, causing NFL scouts to salivate over the possibility of a horrible season and a shot at the incredible specimen. The key question for the South Carolina end will be his will and ability to dominate each and every play as his talent dictates he should.

If he does, he could become the first true defender to win a Heisman.

When asked about the possibility of facing Manziel, the more reserved Clowney responded with confidence. “Can I get him? Yes, I can get him,” he said. “How do I approachhim? Full speed. He has to make a move on me. … I’m going to try tohit him in the mouth.”

As for the last player he “hit in the mouth,” Clowney, who frequently lamented media spin, was asked about what he would say to Vincent Smith, the Michigan running back who will forever be remembered as the guy that was destroyed in the Outback Bowl be the freakish end. The Gamecock was jovial, replying, “I’d be like, ‘How you feeling, man?” He smiled and said,  “nah, I’d just talk to him.”

When asked about his reaction to seeing the play over and over on Sportcenter, Clowney gave an honest response. “I was like, ‘Hey, I did that,” he said.

The main question moving forward for Clowney will be whether he will be able to say the same thing about a historic Heisman campaign once the season is over.