Eight games into a difficult season and Tiger coach Tommy West continues to be impressed by freshman receiver Duke Calhoun.

Before the season began, Calhoun was the incoming freshman getting most of the ink because of his ability. West asked several members of the media to back off and not hype the ex-Raleigh-Egypt receiver too much, especially before he had played a game.

But it’s apparent with four games left, Calhoun has made an impact. He leads the team in receiving yards (420) and receiving touchdowns (4). While West admits Calhoun “has a long way to go without the ball”, he is accomplished with it.

And if there was a team ESPY award for catch of the year, Calhoun would have several receptions nominated, including a one-handed TD grab at East Carolina.