Mecole Hardman came close. Really close.
On a good number of his 23 punt returns last season, Hardman would routinely pass the first wave of defenders. But just when you thought he was about to break free, he was brought down – whether it was from a tackler coming across the field or due to someone not holding onto a block long enough.
The fact that Hardman didn’t log a punt return touchdown in 2017 isn’t lost on the rising junior from Elberton. When he was reminded of this fact, he smiled and laughed in acknowledgment.
He’s aware and so are his teammates.