2005 Mike Dean

Mike Dean was never one to back down from a challenge. Even if the assignment was to block a player who was almost twice his size and destined to become the second overall pick in the NFL draft. In three consecutive Cotton Bowl Classics, Dean was the right offensive guard in Texas celebrated Wishbone attack. In the 1970 Classic, his assignment was to block Notre Dames standout defensive tackle Mike McCoy. Dean was listed on the Texas depth chart at 6-0, 205, while his opponent stood 6-5, 274. But, the contrast in size only added to the story. Dean took charge immediately, dominating the Irish All-American from the opening kickoff to the final gun. He was living proof that there is truth in the axiom the bigger they come, the harder they fall.