50ish Names in 50 Days: Joel Bradford

If the connection between Joel Bradford and BJ Coleman looks natural, that’s because it’s had years to cultivate. The tandem led the McCallie Blue Tornadoes to the Tennessee Division II 3A state championship game in 2006, and in 2010 were among the Championship Subdivision’s most prolific quarterback-to-receiver pairings just miles from McCallie at UT-Chattanooga.

Bradford is among the nation’s best wideouts, a First Team All-Southern Conference and Associated Press Third Team All-America who hauled in 81 passes for 1284 yards and eight touchdowns. Only Arkansas-Pine Bluff’s Raymond Webber caught for more yards, and Webber made 20 more receptions.

What separates Bradford from the other top FCS receivers is that others like Webber, Southern Utah’s Tysson Poots and Western Illinois’ Lito Senatus is the other three, all 2010 leaders, are big, possession receivers. Bradford established himself as a top target at 6-foot, 170 pounds. He’s a flanker, thus frequently the target of quick strikes. But he’s also quick and capable of catching the long ball.

The same is true comparing Bradford to many of the leading receivers heading into 2011 like Elon’s Aaron Mellette (6-4, 212 pounds), Liberty’s Chris Summers (6-5, 215 pounds) and Lehigh’s Ryan Spadola (6-3, 200 pounds).

His stature and status as a regular target are both reminiscent of Oklahoma All-American Ryan Broyles — and each player bears qualities resembling Ricky Proehl. The footwork Bradford boasts that renders him such an elusive-to-tackle target came partially from a standout prep soccer career. Watching his ability to cut sharply after snagging a midfield slant pass does conjure thoughts from the pitch.

The connection between Bradford and Coleman is evident, and a driving force behind the Mocs’ No. 17 31.6 point per game offense. UTC has the offensive firepower to contend with Georgia Southern, Appalachian State and Wofford in the SoCon.