Coming into the year Jermaine Thomas RB of Florida State had 13 touchdowns and was ready to have another great year. In 2009, Thomas really opened some eyes with a couple great performances and was able to rush for 832 yards and 9 touchdowns on the ground with another touchdown coming through the air. Thomas has been one of the best all-purpose backs in the NCAA over the past couple years. This year he ended the season as the 15th al- purpose back in the entire country. He is a very gifted back; he stands at 5’11 and weighs in at 192 pounds. He finished this year strong ending the season with 21 total touchdowns and 2500 plus all-purpose yards. I had the pleasure to watch him this past weekend at the Battle of Florida where he was ready to show the world that he still had it. Jermaine was ruled academically ineligible for the Champs Sports Bowl by Jimbo Fisher because of grade in a class. Jermaine was looking for an opportunity to show the world that he still had what it takes and boy did he impress. So he decided to go to the Battle of Florida in Boca Racton, Florida earlier this year. In the game versus the South, Jermaine rushed for 112 yards on 10 carries and had the first touchdown on a 2 yard run for the North Squad who punished the South 51-3. Jermaine looked so good in this game; he was worlds above the other backs in the game. He was able to hit a hole and read the blocks. He would get to the second level and kick it out to gain extra yardage. He had a couple big runs, but his biggest run of the night came on 2nd down at about mid field when he took the ball and looked like he was going to be stuffed in the backfield and was able to get a huge kick out block by Adam Nissley of UCF which sprung him up the field for a gain of over 20 yards. I had to catch up with Jermaine to see how the offseason has been.
Seminole Speed, Jermaine Thomas, RB, Florida State
What was your most memorable moment in High School for First Coast in Jacksonville?
When all the players gathered around the locker room before the game, get fired up. It was a great experience, there is nothing like the entire team getting excited for a game.
How many teams were recruiting you when you were coming out of high school?
At least 13 teams
Why did you choose Florida State?
The situation worked out best for me, I knew I would be able to get some touches coming in, it was close to home and I have grown up a FSU fan since I was a little kid.
What was your favorite team growing up?
Who was your favorite NFL player growing up?
Randy Moss, he was a beast
What was the most traumatic experience you ever had to deal with and how did you overcome the situation?
My grandmother passing, I had to stay close to my family and take it day by day
Do you have any pregame rituals?
I read Psalm 23 that states
1 The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing. 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, 3 he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. 4 Even though I walk through the darkest valley,[a] I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. 5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. 6 Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
If you could meet one person dead or alive who would it be?
My grandmother, I really would love to see her again.
Who was the toughest player you ever faced up against?
Da’Quan Bowers, the Defensive End of Clemson and the Tampa Bay Bucs
How was your experience at the Battle of Florida and did you enjoy it?
I loved it, it was a great experience, I learned a lot, interacted with a lot of guys on the team and I was able to play for Head Coach Bobby Bowden again and I will cherish this moment for the rest of my life. Thank you
I would like to thank Jermaine Thomas for the great interview and wish him the best of luck in the future. He is a tremendous athlete and great kid. Good Luck and God Bless!
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