That’s because the Stanford running back — and early Heisman contender — says he’s tired of being labeled as “tough” while having his athleticism overlooked because he’s white.
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“When you read about white athletes these days and white skill possession receivers specifically, one word you’ll always find is tough,” McCaffrey told Sports Illustrated in a recent interview. McCaffrey set the NCAA’s all-purpose yardage record last year, putting up 3,864 yards across the board. The record was previously held by a gentleman named Barry Sanders. Despite his on-field accomplishments, McCaffrey feels his athletic ability doesn’t get the respect it deserves.
MORE: McCaffrey’s Rose Bowl performance “You’ll rarely see explosive, athletic, stuff like that,” he said. “…You get a little bit upset: ‘I ran the same 40 as this guy, and you’re calling him. …’ People do the eye test and underestimate me, so I do play with a chip on my shoulder.”
